Autumn in Brooklyn: A Musical Cornucopia

November 3, 2015 by David K. Moseder

Erykah Badu /photo courtesy of Wikipedia

After a great summer concert season filled with incredible outdoor music events, we need to remind ourselves that the party here in Brooklyn is just getting started. As autumn’s chill permeates the air, it’s good to know there are so many places where you can come in from the cold, order your favorite libation (may we suggest a seasonal hard cider?) and have a hot time listening to exciting live performances.

It almost seems as if there’s a top music event this season for every leaf that turns red, yellow or orange — so don’t wait for the Great Pumpkin, get pumped with great rock, soul, R&B, folk, jazz and country sounds at your favorite venue. And you won’t have to make a pilgrimage over the bridge to do so.

For starters, local acts such as Antibalas, Brown Rice Family and The Brooklyn Attractors helped usher in the fall season at Brooklyn Bowl — a season that includes They Might Be Giants and Matt & Kim at Music Hall of Williamsburg; Hamilton Leithauser (ex-Walkmen) is at Baby’s All Right); Three Pints Shy and Kenny Young & the Eggplants at The Way Station, and Slavic Soul Party at Barbès.

Of course, you can also find your favorite artists from beyond Brooklyn who come here to grace our borough’s many stages, such as Jethro Tull, Glen Hansard, Erykah Badu and Manheim Steamroller (all at the Kings Theatre this season), Jimmy Buffet and Huey Lewis (Barclays Center) and Texas legend Joe Ely (Hill Country), to name just a few.

220px-Jimmy_Buffett_1- courtesy Wikipedia

Jimmy Buffet / photo courtesy of Wikipedia

All of the above is just a small sampling – like the hors d’oeuvres or cheese-and-crackers before the turkey, stuffing and candied yams – of what’s waiting to be heard in Brooklyn this season. And we at Brooklyn Roads are thankful for such a musical bounty and grateful for the support of our readers.

Now, will someone please pass the pumpkin pie?

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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