Brooklyn Voices – June 2011

June 6, 2011 by David K. Moseder

voices jeffreys On his forthcoming release, The King of In Between, Sheepshead Bay’s Garland Jeffreys proudly flies the Brooklyn flag with tracks such as Coney Island Winterand Roller Coaster Town. Lou Reed guests on the album…Lest anyone doubt where she’s coming from, Natalia Zukerman leads off her latest CD, Gas Station Roses, with a song set in and titled Brooklyn. The album, partly recorded at Butler Plaza in Prospect Heights, deftly blends musical genres, anchored by Zukerman’s unique slide guitar playing and seductive vocals…Bed Stuy-born Charles Bradley has paid his dues, now he gets to sing the blues. The 62-year-old’s raw and poignant debut album, No Time for Dreaming, produced by Dap-King
s guitarist Thomas Brenneckand recorded at Dunham Studios in Bushwick, is another smash from the Daptone juggernaut…Flatbush voices maya native Maya Azucena, one of Elmore Magazine’s “11 Artists to Watch in ‘11”, is planning a late-June release for her newest CD, Cry Love. Azucena, who has been compared to Roberta Flack and Chaka Khan, has earned numerous accolades for her support of humanitarian causes…Other recent releases worth noting include Nicole Atkins’ Mondo Amore, featuring the hit single Cry, Cry, Cry;The Pains of Being Pure of Heart’s Belong, the follow-up to their eponymous debut album; The S.O.U.L. Tape from Fabolous; Neil Diamond’sThe Bang Years: 1966-1968; and Sweet Soubrette’s sophomore offering, Days and Nights, with Ellia Bisker now fronting a full band. Notable Quote:“Sometimes I feel like my only friend is the city I live in, is beautiful Brooklyn.” – from Brooklyn by Mos Def.

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.

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