Afropunk Brooklyn-Same Vibe New Location!

September 7, 2023 by Kyra Kverno

The Afropunk Brooklyn Festival was held on August 26 and 27, 2023 with a new name and location. Originally held at Commodore Barry Park in Brooklyn, the festival relocated to Skyline Drive in Greenpoint and transformed into the “Afropunk Circus of Soul” .

Slimming down to only two stages , the festival offered concert goers the opportunity to catch most of the acts while enjoying breathtaking views of the East River and the Manhattan skyline. This year’s line up did not disappoint, with spectacular sets from the likes of Bembona , Durand Bernarr , Iniko , Tobe Nwigne , Vince Staples and Cleo Reed.

: Bembona /photo by Kyra Kverno

: Durand Bernarr / photo by Kyra Kverno

: Iniko / photo by Kyra Kverno

: Tobe Nwigwe /photo by Kyra Kverno

: Vince Staples / photo by Kyra Kverno

: Cleo Reed/ photo by Kyra Kverno

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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