Brooklyn Voices – October 2012

October 6, 2012 by David K. Moseder

Belated congratulations to Richie Havens on his induction into the Blues Hall of Fame… Sonya Kitchell has been working on her third full-length album at The Bunker in Williamsburg…Among the artists whom Kitchell says inspired her is Norah Jones, whose album Little Broken Heartsdebuted at #2 on the Billboard top 200 in May. Shortly after its release, Jones chose The Green Building in Carroll Gardens to tape an episode ofLive From the Artists Den, which aired recently on PBS…Loso’s Way 2: Rise to Power, the long-awaited sixth full-length release from Fabolous, is now scheduled for 2013 release. Meanwhile the Bed-Stuy-born rapper’s new single, So NY, is available
for download… Amber Rubarth‘s new live album, Sessions from the 17th Ward, was recorded live at St. Elias Church in Greenpoint…Meyer Rossabi,whose latest release, Blues is the Color, has been garnering national airplay, is already back in the studio working on his next, Blues The Way You Like It, with Marky Ramone on drums. Check out our interview with him in Brooklyn Roads, Vol. 2, Issue 1…Sheepshead Bay native Annika Vitolo (profiled in Brooklyn Roads, Vol. 2, Issue 2) is recording her second album at Greenpoint’s Rockgarden Studio…Gritty, quirky, Midwood-based singer-songwriter Bob Katz is also reported to be back in the studio working on a new album, the follow-up to When Good Mangos Go Bad. Bob’s most recent local gigs were a pair of September shows at Bed-Stuy’s Goodbye Blue Monday. Notable Quotes: “The biggest thrill you can have is to tell people one of your songs, and have them be able to hum it.” —Midwood High alumnus Marvin Hamlisch (1944-2012)

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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