Atahra : Brooklyn True School

December 7, 2016 by Al Pereira

Atahra Wows the Knitting Factory / photo by Al Pereira

There are shows in Brooklyn and then there are Brooklyn shows. Atahra’s recent spot at The Knitting Factory in Williamsburg turned out to be both. On a night where the lifetime “Borough of Kings” singer songwriter headlined with a handful of alt rock sluggers including Doobie and The Dayz, the crowd seemed primed for her more measured delivery.

For about half a song, they were rewarded with just that, as right after Atahra’s set began, a loud piercing metallic sound rang out of the speakers and the sound system shut down. The venue’s sound crew scratched their heads and nobody seemed to be able to find a way to rectify the problem.

This is where the “Brooklyn” in this Brooklyn product came out. It’s all about composure. After waiting for the crew to try and get the sound back on line, her drummer, Avi Jacob and onstage collaborator Chia Minaya, suggested they perform the material acapella. While this seemed like a good idea and a composed Atahra was able to find a work-around, the backing track came thundering up. She announced to the crowd, “Let’s do this!” , not knowing if it would work or not. A lesser performer might have folded under the stress and uncertainty, but Atahra opted to come back twice as hard.

Atahra True School!/ photo by Al Pereira

Atahra rolled out most of the songs from her recent Cognition album, keeping her motions in a tight radius. With the front of the stage still creating feedback, she nonetheless found power in her vocal delivery. A blistering version of “Euphoria” got feet moving and the wistful “Why Can’t I Stop” slowed it down softly. Her signature song, “American Gangster”, reflected the precision of a cut diamond. In each new song, it was clear that her confidence could override any technicalities and she created a memorable performance in the process. Sound the bell, newbies ! “True School” is in session and Atahra is driving the bus!

Artists on our Radar

Ricky Stein: Texas Roots in Brooklyn

Ricky Stein/ photo courtesy of the artist

If you’re looking for music inspired by New York City with a Texan flare, look no further than Ricky Stein, a Brooklyn-based artist originally from Austin, Texas. Stein is a singer-songwriter whose music is grounded by a combination of his upbringing in Texas and his present life in the bustling streets of New York City and Downtown Brooklyn. Stein has an impressive discography of singles and albums, and since moving to New York City in August 2016, he has released a full album, “Long Summer” and many singles. Stein’s music is best defined as Americana and roots, with folk-infused acoustic and electric guitars, and his lyrics paint vivid images of nature and life. The listener feels connected to Stein, as his musical stylings resemble talent from the likes of John Prine and Bonnie Raitt. His most recent single, “Passenger,” highlights Stein’s talents with a strong harmonica section. The song’s instrumentation and structure is built on one verse, which compliments the song’s message about the uncertainty and ominousness of being a passenger on a long journey. Another standout, “Street Lights,” is a lighthearted commentary on the comfort of hope, the street lights representing persistent light even in the dead of night. Stein’s live performances are carefully tailored, his sets performed at local venues in Brooklyn like Pete’s Candy Store and many other venues known to support live roots and country music. His talents are always showcased, whether performing a solo show with a guitar and harmonica or being supported by a full band. Stein’s upcoming months are packed with performances at many venues, including Saturday, January 11th at Skinny Dennis Bar in Williamsburg and Friday, March 7th at Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook. You won’t want to miss it!

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