As the Weather Cools, Brooklyn’s Music Scene Stays Hot

September 6, 2023 by David K. Moseder

The days may be getting shorter in the months ahead, but there’s no shortage of great music to be found in Brooklyn. From top visiting artists to outstanding local talent to fabulous festivals, the sounds to choose from in September and October are as varied as the changing colors of the autumn leaves. For example…

Janelle Monae / photo by Kyra Kverno

Billy Idol / courtesy of the artist

Several “name” acts are coming to Brooklyn’s larger venues. Kings Theatre present Billy Idol, Sept. 12; Ray La Montagne, Sept. 21; The Breeders, Sept. 23; Janelle Monae, Sept. 28; Nick Cave, Oct. 6; and The Walkmen, Oct. 17.

At Barclays Center, Brooklyn-born rapper Nas shares a bill with Staten Island’s Wu Tang Clan, Sept. 27, followed by Grammy-winning R&B singer SZA, Oct. 6 & 7. Later in the month the venue welcomes Britain’s Depeche Mode, Oct. 21, and The Trio Tour, featuring Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull and Ricky Martin — Oct. 28.

One of Britain’s best singer-songwriters, Beth Orton, is coming to Brooklyn Made on Sept. 8. Local acts taking the venue’s stage include The Thing and Tilden, Oct. 5, and Evolfo, Oct. 27. California indie rockers Pavement begin a four-night run at Brooklyn Steel on Sept. 11.

Sam Robbins/photo by Audrey Cannon

Folkus-NYC launches its new every-third-Thursday music series at Williamsburg’s new Brooklyn Art Haus with Nashville’s Sam Robbins, Sept. 17, followed by a pair of Long Islanders, Nico Padden & Rorie Kelly, Oct. 19.

The Music Hall of Williamsburg welcomes The Beths, Oct. 17-19, and M. Ward, Oct. 23. At Barbès, a trio of musicians, including Brooklyn drummer Konrad Meissner of The Mammals, will lead a sing-along tribute to Brooklyn music legend Harry Nilsson on Sept. 30.

Antibalas / photo by Al Pereira

Local artists coming up at Brooklyn Bowl include indie soul singer Sean Carroll, opening for Proxima Parada, Oct. 19; Talib Kweli with full band, Oct. 27; and Antibalas, Nov. 3 & 4. Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Adam Lytle plays Owl Music Parlor, Sept. 17, in support of his new album, “This Is the Fire,” set for an Oct. 20, 2023, release.

Looking further ahead, the ninth annual Brooklyn Americana Music Festival is set for Sept. 28-Oct. 1 ,at several venues in Dumbo and Red Hook and the Jalopy Theatre will present the Brooklyn Folk Festival at St. Ann’s Church, Nov. 10-12.

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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