Articles by Rachel Armstrong

Dyme-A-Duzin: True Hip Hop and Soul

August 12, 2021 by Rachel Armstrong

Donnovan Blocker, better known as Dyme-a-Duzin, is a Brooklyn-raised hip hop artist who strives to stay true to his Brooklyn roots in his music. This year the musician has released two albums both in relation to one another entitled Training, and more recently Ghetto Olympics 2, as a follow up to the former. This release was created with the intention... read article

A Pensive Wxlfman photo by Jaye Sant / courtesy of the artist

Wxlfman : Turns Inspired Writing Into Musical Creations

May 1, 2021 by Rachel Armstrong

Wxlfman (pronounced wolfman), is a Brooklyn-based hip-hop musician/rapper and dancer who grew up with the classic hip-hop influences of artists such as A Tribe Called... read article

Pensive Mood Robot photo by Lissy Elle Laricchia

Mood Robot: Inspired Synthwave

March 8, 2021 by Rachel Armstrong

Mood Robot is a synthwave duo created by and consisting of brothers Ben and Alex. They formed their band about 10 to 12 years ago... read article

Jesse Fischer in Performance Photo by Dennis Manuel

Jazz Enthusiast Jesse Fischer: Deeper Than What’s on the Surface

February 16, 2021 by Rachel Armstrong

Brooklyn Roads is happy to introduce Brooklyn-based composer, producer, and pianist Jesse Fischer. Making music with a strong jazz presence, this musical artist gets inspiration... read article

Athena Matsil Photo by Arthur Hunking

Awksymoron: Punny Music and Individuality

December 24, 2020 by Rachel Armstrong

Awksymoron, a band founded by born-and-raised Brooklynite musician Athena Matsil, is what you might call an indie rock group with a twist. Although the band... read article

Bette Smith photo by Shervin Lainez / courtesy of Devious Planet Media

Bette Smith: Joy, Anguish, Outrage — and a Lot of Soul

October 20, 2020 by Rachel Armstrong

Bette Smith is a rock-and-soul singer/songwriter whose latest album, The Good, The Bad and The Bette, was released in September to rave reviews. She tells... read article

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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