Brooklyn Voices – January 2011

January 6, 2011 by David K. Moseder

voices rossabi Several Brooklyn artists released new albums in the closing months of 2010. Here’s a sampling of some of the best to get your New Year off to a tuneful start: Norah Jones’ Featuring is a decade’s worth of musical collaborations. Guests stars on the 18 tracks range from legends such as Ray Charles, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton to contemporary icons OutKast and Foo Fighters,as well as Brooklynites Sasha Dobson, Sean Bones and Talib Kweli…Sony may have stopped production on the Walk voices jones
man, butThe Walkmen are still producing great music, includingtheir latest album, Lisbon…Claire Burson’s Silver and Ash imagines her grandmother’s life in Germany, from her birth in 1919 to her escape in 1938…Meyer Rossabiserves up Just a Little Taste of the Blues,flavored with fiery guitar solos and soulful vocals…The joyous single Cameras is a highlight of Matt and Kim’s long-awaitedSidewalks…How about something for the kids? Neil Sedaka‘s first children’s book,Waking Up is Hard to Do, includes a three-song CD, written and recorded by Neil exclusively for this book …And even though their album came out in the summer, we couldn’t resist adding Treats by noise-pop duo Sleigh Bells to our winter wish list. Notable Quote: “Between thought and expression lies a lifetime.” – Lou Reed

Artists on our Radar

Jessi Robertson: A Voice for the Vulnerable

Jessi Robertson-Memory and Abandoned Parts Album Art

Jessi Robertson is a powerhouse voice that captivates you from the first note. In a world where music is often a safe place for personal expression, she stands out as a compelling voice for the vulnerable. With her vivid lyrics and haunting melodies, her over 15-year career as a musician has carved a way for herself in the folk and Americana music scene, captivating audiences with her raw honesty and emotional depth. Born in a small town in upstate New York, Robertson’s journey into music began at an early age. Robertson moved to Brooklyn in 2003, as she honed her craft, recognizing its ability to speak directly to the human experience with authenticity and sincerity. Once in BK, she released her debut album, “Small Town Girls,” in 2010, which gained much traction for its lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. Following this came her 2014 release “I Came From The War.” Throughout her career, Robertson has fearlessly tackled themes ranging from love and loss to social justice and mental health. Her most recent release, “Memory and Abandoned Parts (15-Year Anniversary Edition of Who We Are, What We Have Done)” is a re-release of her original 2008 album. She continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, as the release explores the complexities of the human condition. Robertson’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Recognizing the power of music to effect change, she uses her platform to advocate for issues close to her heart. Whether performing at charity events or speaking out on social media, Robertson is committed to using her art as a force for good. Through her music, Robertson invites listeners to confront the complexities of the human experience with empathy and compassion, reminding us of the power of art to bridge divides and inspire change. As she continues to evolve as an artist and an advocate, one thing remains certain: Jessi Robertson’s voice will echo in the hearts and minds of listeners for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape.

... read article