Afropunk Brooklyn Returns!

September 16, 2022 by Kyra Kverno

Publisher’s Note: Contributing Photographer Kyra Kverno shares some of her imges and impressions of Afropunk Brooklyn 2022 :

Afropunk Brooklyn returned on September 10 and 11, 2022, but not without some changes. The festival that was started in 2005 has gone through several since its’ early days. This year, in its’ return after a three year absence , some of the new looks may not be appreciated by some fans of its’ earlier days. The festival went from having many stages and a wide variety of music to choose from , to only two stages and noticeably missing a punk, thrash and metal element , at least compared to the previous years. Years ago, the skate scene and hardcore stage was pushed outside the main festival area. This year it was completely gone.

That being said , many showed up even with the inclement weather looming and Afropunk Brooklyn provided a great weekend of music . Here are some visual highlights from Sunday’s line up:

: Earl Sweatshirt

: Pink Siifu

: Lucky Day

: Ivy Sole

: Kaleta &Super Yamba Band

: Fana Hues

: Bartees Strange

: Adekunle Gold

: Jany Green

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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