Articles by Azriel Wallace

Afropunk Brooklyn 2019: Fun, Raunchy, Eclectic

September 7, 2019 by Azriel Wallace

Afropunk BK Fashion / photo by Kyra Kverno

2019’s Afropunk Festival Brooklyn, held on August 24 and 25 at Commodore Barry Park, was an abundance of pure vibes. One word to describe this two-day music festival? Brooklyn! From the performances to the vendors to the fashion statements, it was apparent, while standing on line, that a festive experience was ahead. The park’s entrance, beautifully decorated by a canopy... read article

Escort photo by Dennis Manual/ courtesy of Girlie Action Media

Boogie in Brooklyn: Escort Brings ‘City Life’ to Elsewhere

May 7, 2019 by Azriel Wallace

Music lovers: Looking for some dance-friendly grooves to add to your playlist? Check out the super-funky group that goes by the name of Escort. This... read article

The Stars of New York Dance Shine In Brooklyn

December 6, 2018 by Azriel Wallace

Brooklyn is home to many professional dance artists whose lives are dedicated to gracing the stage. It is on that stage that the dancer usually... read article

Artists on our Radar

Janet LaBelle Takes the Spotlight: Blending Vintage Vibes with Modern Magic

Janet Labelle With Guitar In Hand / photo by John Nyboer

Dynamic Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter Janet LaBelle continues to push her creative boundaries. Known for her unique ability to fuse analog warmth with modern production, LaBelle has been praised by Jersey Beat for her “sweet voice and sharp, thoughtful songwriting,” and her newest projects are no exception. Her music defies easy categorization, effortlessly blending elements of folk, classic rock, and pop into a sound that feels both fresh and timeless. LaBelle recently released her single “Day in the Sun” on September 13 via her own Wild Violet Records, and it has already been captivating audiences with its sunny melodies and deeply personal narrative. The song, inspired by a meaningful hike with a friend in 2023, showcases her talent for finding beauty in simplicity, a theme that resonates through much of her work. The inclusion of horns marks an exciting creative evolution, adding a new layer of depth to her already richly textured sound. Throughout her career, LaBelle has explored a wide range of musical styles. She first made waves as a teenager in the punk-pop band Avery, and since then, her solo work has spanned genres like classic rock, folk, pop, and even French chanson. Her previous EPs, including Moon Songs (2010) and Blossom & Blue (2011), demonstrate her eclectic tastes, with influences ranging from surf rock to vintage country. Working with respected producers such as Evan Taylor (Bernie Worrell) and Tony Maimone (Pere Ubu, They Might Be Giants), LaBelle continues to expand her sound, evolving with each new release. Fans can catch her live at upcoming performances, including a show at Our Wicked Lady on September 24th and at Sleepwalk on December 3rd. These live shows will give listeners a chance to hear both her new and classic material in an up-close setting. Her combination of memorable songs, captivating performances and a unique voice sets her apart as an artist who continues to rise, drawing listeners in with every new creation.

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