“Deidre” A Modern Mystical Muse From Austin, TX

August 6, 2026 Melinoe Macaria Mourningstar

Date: August 6th, 2026 Moon: Last Quarter Taurus

Introspection From Melinoe:

Welcome Ghouls, Demons, and Fellow Wyrd Ones!!! This lovely Last Quarter Moon I would like to release to you all an enchanting muse, Deidre. I discovered Deidre during my social media explorations. Scrolling through my FYP page on Tik Tok, I came across a content video of an artist expressing herself to be a spiritual musician. Talk about an easy way to get my attention! Immediately I tagged Rock Oracle, and requested to connect to her. My intuition bells were ringing clearly, softly, and lovingly. It was not loud, it was not urgent. I was called lightly. I did not recall hearing her tunes in the video. I was drawn to the essence. The aura of her face. The beauty of her self presentation. There was an obvious mystique to her presence. Her attire resembling Ancient Mythological Portraits. Needless to say I was entranced, and intrigued. To my delight she welcomed a direct message, and we began the creative process to deliver this Divine Message to you all on this Lovely August Day! (Blessed Lughnasadh to those who celebrate, and those who have a similar Harvest Holiday.)

It is not a secret that I am a vibrant critic of the social media music and artistry world. I tend to be quite cantankerous around this modern culture and industry. Most of the time, the artists you discover through popularity contests online and viral trends, are inauthentic, mass produced slop. I romanticize the elder generations and how other musings were discovered. However, nothing is inherently benevolent, nor inherently malicious. There are the hidden gems to be treasured in these online spaces. Social Media is an amazing tool for the underdog to have a chance at achieving their dreams. It is a fine line in these spaces. The critique is absolutely necessary to maintain the ethical efficacy. Although, on the other end of the spectrum we have the elitist march that snubs anyone who dares to utilize such a tool for their benefit. I do believe it is in how you use the tool, not the fact that you’re engaging with the tool at all. And so, I am grateful for the use of modern technology. Otherwise, I am not sure how else I would’ve aligned with Deidre and her magickal, mystical musings. I suppose, the Universe would’ve found a way through the networks of that era. Nevertheless, these are the moments I find reward in the bullshit I sufferingly indulge within my online presence and engagement. This is the magick of sacrifice. This is the beauty of the internet, and its empowering capability of connection. This is a story of the wellness we can cultivate within social media culture. The healing, and unity, of our virtual realms.

Deidre has her debut solo single, ‘Catacombs‘ available for all to witness now. I adored reading that her single was released on the Spring Equinox. A fantastic sixth house working in being of Service to the Self, and to the Collective. The alignment of Wellness in how we present our purpose to this world through our passions. I am sure I could ramble on, and on about the Healing Powers I see in the intention Deidre set for her music. However, I do not want to spoil the initiation for you all. Every detail of my personal workings has a magickal alignment, purpose, intention, and all of the above. It was refreshing to witness the work Deidre has been conducting as well. Authenticity within these spiritual spaces is lacking more than you would like to believe. Oftentimes the expression is superficial, performative, and for social clout or shock value. Here, I found another Goddess, another Healer, another Witch, another Woman pouring her soul into the world. There is nothing performative about Deidre. The gentle exposure to her essence is proof of her divinity. She is not Bravado. She is not Pride, nor Greed. She is Purity. A being worthy of her manifestations, and of her Flowers. Not because she is “special,” “more powerful,” or any of the other ridiculous click bait lines we experience online. Her worth is connected to her genuinity. Her blessings are granted through the commitment to her path, the discipline to her work, and the Love that is undeniable. Her reasonings are saintly. Her understandings are noble. She is not here for unhealthy, unworldly attachments. She unfolds before us all graciously as a divine medicine. As nurturing as Mother Nature.

‘Catacombs‘ took me through an emotional journey. I believe that all musings, regardless of their medium, come to us all at the “perfect time.” The message presented through art is one of the best therapies the gods could offer. I did not expect to cry when listening to this single. I did not expect to sob through the repetition as I dove deeper into the layers presented before me. As a Left Hand Path, “Dark Arts” or “Shadow” specialist, I found this song to be a confirmation of my own work. I found this song to be a blessing of completion within a cycle of my own Qliphothic (Underworld/Subconscious) healing hero’s journey. I could poet that Hekate channeled through Deidre for all of us shadow walkers who saunter through the Tunnels of Set. I could declare the omen of gnosis in the passing of torches through the darkness of the Underworld. There is so much I could express through a spiritual lens. The divinity within this song is undeniable. Not only for the initiation it provided for me, but for the layers of initiations it shall provide for the collective. Every replay left me with something more. A Light Code necessary for one to ground into their Role on this plane of existence, in this timeline, and for our evolution as a society.

I am obviously a fan! I am deeply honored to have been blessed with this model of medicine. Deidre has captivating vocals that are soothing to the ears. Her inspirations would glimmer in pride over her encapsulation of their sound. The Torch was passed down to her, and she is generously rationing that fire to us all. I could see Deidre completing an entire Labyrinth or Dark Crystal Soundtrack. I would rave over a mythological concept album. Her talent, her sound, and her intentions are a highly anticipated event for us all to wallow. ‘Catacombs‘ specifically would be wonderful for a somatic release, a relaxing meditation, or an empowering yoga session. There is no limit to the possibilities of how this single (and future music) could be incorporated into ritual workings for fellow spiritual practitioners, or for psychological, metaphorical healing endeavors for those who experience the world through a different lens. Her whimsy is indisputable. Her shine is unequivocal. I not only look forward to future music, but I look forward to the impact her ethos will grant to our World.

Interview:

I had the pleasure of getting to know Deidre on a deeper level. Dive into our Interview and become acquainted with Deidre, and her Art/Magick, through her own words!

Melinoe:

“What is a brief History of Your Music that you feel is most important to highlight to the audience? Are there any “fun facts” about you, your musical name, and how you decided to express yourself in this industry, within this medium?”

Deidre:

“My current solo project, “Deidre”, was born after my Americana-Rock band, “Red and the Rebels” disbanded in 2025. It was a very amicable process, but given my recent health issues, I was not in a position to be on stage again just yet. I tried, and we played a few shows in an attempt to get the ball rolling again, but it seemed as if my fate as a musician was not with “Red and the Rebels.”

In August of 2023, I suffered a severe shock to my system (the cause is still unknown) that sent me into liver failure. After 27 years of being perfectly healthy, I was now in the hospital, bed-ridden, jaundiced, and on dialysis. My kidney would start to fail as well due to the liver problems, and my health took a nosedive very quickly. I suffered through countless biopsies, blood tests, scans, severe malnutrition (I would get as low as 95lbs – I am 5’7” and entered the hospital at 150lbs for reference), and an apathetic medical system that nearly killed me. After a matter of months and admission to three different hospitals, it was still a mystery as to what causes me to get this sick. Doctors kept telling me “you’re young, your organs will just magically come back online – don’t worry,” but I, in fact, was only getting worse. It got so bad at one point that I had to have a life-saving emergency surgery due to internal bleeding in my stomach. It was at this point, in about November, where I’d have a conscious, out-of-body, near-death experience. I remember returning to Source and becoming “one” with every version of everything and everyone that had ever existed since the dawn of time itself. I was given a choice: return and fight for my life, or remain in the ‘Beyond.’ Thankfully, I chose to return to my body. About two weeks later, I’d be put on the transplant list for both a kidney and a liver. Within three days of being listed, I received both a kidney and liver and was able to then begin my recovery.

I had to relearn how to walk due to being bed-ridden since August and nerve damage caused by a severe blood clot in my leg. Now, I am required to take anti-rejection medication for life which comes with an entire slew of issues (more prone to cancer, steroid-induced osteoporosis/avascular necrosis, etc.) that I am still dealing with in the present-day. It’s been 2.5 years since my transplants, and this musical project is my way of alchemizing this traumatic experience and turning it into empowering, authentic art.

Now that you have the recent history behind why I began this musical project, I’ll give you some ‘fun facts’ about it as well!

“Deidre” is my legal name! It comes from an old Irish folktale called “Deidre of the Sorrows” which perfectly captures the mystical, magical, primal energy I’m trying to channel with my songs and writing.
As a spiritual practitioner, I imbed magic into all of my lyrics and song recordings. Listeners, if they so choose, can feel each song in their body while meditating. I often organize my release dates with favorable astrological energy as well.
“Catacombs” was released on the spring equinox (March 20, 2026)!”

Melinoe:

“Where are you from? And/or where do you currently reside? How does your current living situation connect to your music, and your career in music?”

Deidre:

“I am originally from San Antonio, Texas but I currently live and perform in Austin, Texas. Funnily enough, when I moved to Austin in 2018, I had no plans of becoming a musician. I barely knew how to sing, let alone play an instrument. I moved here from Ft. Worth after college for a job. Although, I am a lifelong music lover and was excited to live in a city so centered around the arts and music.

I did not play music at a young age like a lot of my peers. I picked up a guitar for the first time when I was about 20/21 (in 2016 or so) after my original college plans fell through. I had intended to play volleyball all through my college career, but a knee injury would force an early retirement from sports. I would then spend my newfound free time learning chords on the guitar and putting my poetry to melodies.

I have yet to move somewhere for the sole purpose of pursuing music, but I have to say that it felt very fated that I happened to wind up in Austin. In 2019, I would happen to meet my future bandmates at a mutual friend’s birthday party. I posted my demos on Facebook, and my former drummer/producer found them and decided he liked them enough to help me form an entire band around it. Thus, “Red and the Rebels” was born. We released a full-length album during COVID and a handful of singles before I got sick in 2023. While I am bummed to not play with that band anymore, it did lead me to my current project and for that I am grateful.”

Melinoe:

“What are your Intentions/Manifestations/Goals/Dreams/Big picture for you and your art?”

Deidre:

“My goal is to live a comfortable life funded almost exclusively from my music. I want music to take me as far as it possibly can. Having my music in TV and film is something I’d like to see within a year of my album being completed (which will be, hopefully, sometime this year).

While I am currently living on Social Security Disability for my transplants, I have been working as hard as I can to dedicate my time to building a strong foundation for my music career. I have found a wonderful producer (who is a friend that played bass in my old band) who is committed to producing my work, and I plan to use this recovery time to both heal my physical body and continue writing/recording for my upcoming LP.

I have a lot of faith in both my voice and my writing. I think it can take me to a whole new level of fulfillment, stability, and abundance.”

Melinoe:

“What Genre would you classify yourself as? What are inspiring artists/musical groups that have influenced your music/art?”

Deidre:

“I think my music falls somewhere in the crossroads between Folk, World Music, and Dream Pop. I love to pull inspiration from various world music traditions while still using a folk/pop-style writing structure/pop-adjacent hooks/melodies. Some of my influences include:

Kate Bush
Tori Amos
Massive Attack
Loreena McKennitt
Fairuz
Stevie Nicks
Lana del Rey
Karen Dalton
Joni Mitchell
Dead Can Dance
Cocteau Twins
Mazzy Star
Sade”

Melinoe:

“What are your personal favorite works that you have completed, or that are already released to the public?”

Deidre:

“So far, I only have “Catacombs” released for public listening. I have other completed songs that are in the process of being polished/produced, but I have to say that I really love “Catacombs.” It is a story of resilience and empowerment, and urges the listener to leave their burdens/traumas/old narratives behind in exchange for moving forward into a better reality. I love the imagery my lyrics evoke for this song. It is powerful without being forceful which is a nuance I always appreciate in songs.”

Melinoe:

“Since I went into your artist spotlight intuitively blind, I am shocked to hear you only have one single released! I had an assumption that there was more music out there. As well, could you provide any information or backstory/inspiration to the song/album you would like expressed?”

Deidre:

‘Catacombs’ was written in the months after my final release from the hospital. It came to me in about 15 minutes. It was written by me (Deidre Rodriguez), and produced/mixed by Ralph Manak.

‘Catacombs’ is an equally empowering and desperate plea for inner peace after a life-altering experience. The journey begins with an inquisitive dialogue from an omniscient narrator surrounding the temptation to blame oneself for suffering and perceived failure. Using whimsical synthesizers, rhythmic hand drums, and curious piano motifs, the song continues and assures the listener of the power of divine timing and reflection. As the song builds, an uplifting setar piece (written and performed by Amir Etemadzadeh) transforms Catacombs from a cry to Creator for saving into a poetic sense of acceptance and empowerment over what the future holds.

I am very partial to both the opening/closing riff and the setar solo. I think these elements really helped round out the poetic nature of this song.

I also love the lines “Ancient catacombs are no place for a life,” and “Don’t let the chains lure you to a false restore.” The first line is an image-heavy commentary on what it feels like to hold onto trauma and never let it go. It feels, to me, like wandering inside underground catacombs – there is death and dark memories surrounding you at all times. It can be difficult to see any progress or any goodness when all you’re surrounded by is darkness/death. The second line I mentioned speaks to the limiting and heavy burden of comfort. Yes, it is very easy to become adjusted to and comfortable with identifying with your trauma/negative experiences. It’s especially hard when those reminders are physical in nature. However, clinging to the familiar, when it is something so negative, is just as damaging as being restricted your entire life by chains. Comfort doesn’t mean you’ve healed/moved on – it means you’ve simply adjusted your standards. True healing happens when you’re able to accept what happened and move forward without judging yourself.”

Melinoe:

“What are the core philosophies within your music? And the message(s) you/the band wish your fans/audience to receive? Please feel free to add and highlight specific quotes you would like emphasized.”

Deidre:

“My ideal audience are people who believe in the magic of our world, nature, and the universe. The people who were often called “too sensitive” or told to “just get over it.” As someone who came from a strict religious background, I am writing for those of us who felt spiritually homeless until a bit later in life after discovering what worked for us.

Keywords that, I feel, go hand-in-hand with my music would be: authenticity, magic, ancient wisdom, spirituality, poetic, empowering, spell-casting, hypnotic, genre-bending, and genuine.

I want people to feel as if they’ve been taken to another world when they listen to any of my songs. I support “healthy escapism,” if you will.”

Melinoe:

“Can you let me and the audience know about any other gigs you have in your day to day life? Such as a day job? I would like you to tell us about whether you plan on keeping your potential day job as a part of your life goals, or if you are trying to leave that world behind for a life of music and/or all the above! Where does music fit into your life and what are your dreamiest of dreams with it? How do you feel about having a day job or second career? Is music a hobby, a passion or a life-line? Can you paint a picture to inspire others who may want to follow in your footsteps, or walk a similar path to the one you envision for yourself? Whether it is to pursue your dreams and shoot for the stars, or to give some peace of mind to those who are juggling multiple gigs, or any of the above.

Deidre:

“Currently, I work both privately and at City Alchemist (an occult shop on East 6th Street here in Austin) as an astrologer, tarot card reader, and spiritual practitioner. I’ve been doing this professionally for about 6 years, but began my studying of tarot and astrologer over a decade ago. I offer readings in a private, 1-on-1 setting for personal clients, but I also work alongside corporations like Marriott, SXSW, Urban Outfitters, Kendra Scott, and more by doing events for employees. Additionally, I offer my services for local birthday parties, bachelorette parties, and markets.

It is extremely rewarding work, as I feel I get to help people navigate their experiences in this life. I love what I do, and while I don’t plan to give it up right now, I know I will eventually have to focus more of my time on my music as my project grows. It’s a sacrifice I am sad, but willing, to make.

In my ideal reality, I am able to merge the two career paths into one. I am already fusing astrology, tarot symbolism, and folk magic into my artistic brand, but I would love to still offer readings to people even after I “make it.””

Melinoe:

“You are an Inspiration! I love the eclectic, intentional, and healing approach to your craft in all aspects! What are other insights or expressions you would like the Rock Oracle Audience, and your current/future audience, to know about you on a more personal level?”

Deidre:

“A lot of my creative inspiration comes from working with my ancestors within my spiritual practice. I am of an indigenous background on my father’s side. Our tribe is called Karankawa (Kah-ran-ke-wey).

My hobbies include- competitive Pokemon/VGC, painting/drawing, reading, writing fiction, hiking, and collecting vinyl.

While this isn’t something I feel is required to mention, I am a lesbian.

Melinoe:

“We Love highlighting LGBTQ+ Artists here at Rock Oracle. I understand why you may not feel like it is required, however, we appreciate your expression. I am sure that’ll allow an even more aligned audience to come your way! To follow along with that intention? What is your birthday/Zodiac sign? Or Animal Spirit? Or Tarot Card? Or Crystal? Or any other form of spiritual connection/identity you wish to share. How can we call more aligned souls to connect with you?

Deidre:

“I am an Aries Sun, Capricorn moon, and a Sagittarius ascendant in Tropical Astrology. In Sidereal Astrology, I am a Pisces sun, a Sagitarius moon, and a Scorpio ascendant.

I consider myself a folk practitioner (folk witch, for lack of a better phrase) who studies various occult topics such as Kabbalah and some forms of chaos magic. “Folk-occultist” I guess? It’s more of a way of life for me than it is something I can truly label, if that makes sense.

My Tarot Cards: Queen of Wands or High Priestess (specifically the High Priestess from the Lasenic Tarot deck ;))

My Top Crystals: Lapis Lazuli, Garnet, Labradorite, and Opals.”

Melinoe:

“Thank you so much for your time! It was an honor to get to know you. I cannot wait for your album! Stay tuned for a full album review to come from your newest, magickal fan!”

Wyrd Ones, I truly look forward to diving into the tale that will be Deidre’s debut album! Give her single a listen! Stream her song until the algorithm combusts. I know my bias shows time, and time again. However, I believe in Deidre just as much as I believe in Rock Oracle. I am beyond stoked for all these artists of this next generation to flood the radio waves, and insight our Age of Aquarius Revolution!

Let’s Continue to Cultivate a Magickal World. Let’s Make Heaven a Place on Earth. Keep Bringing People Together Through Music, Art, Love, Passion & Authentic Expression.

Live Deliciously. Love Authentically. And Always, Stay Wyrd!

-Melinoe Macaria Mourningstar

Socials:

Instagram: @Deidreofthesorrow

TikTok: @Deidreofthesorrow

BandCamp: Deidreofthesorrow.bandcamp.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/69SF8GynBLzJzbRiYuaYc9?si=kbkTwlG7Rgah_JNf4EbqkA

Discord Channel: https://discord.gg/umSep3XaXS

Website: https://Deidreofthesorrow.com/

Photos: Deidre & Victoria Garcia of The Lovely Lens

Rock Oracle YouTube: Rock Oracle & Melinoe Macaria Mourningstar YouTube