BROOKLYN VOICES — MARCH 2016

February 29, 2016 by David K. Moseder

George Gershwin-1937 / photo courtesy of Wikipedia

George and Ira Gershwin, who set the bar for Brooklyn composers and lyricists more than 90 years ago, continue to inspire contemporary artists. The latest tribute to these Brownsville legends, released on February 26, is Summertime: Willie Nelson Sings Gershwin. In November, Nelson, who closed the 2015 season of Celebrate Brooklyn! with a rousing benefit concert, became the first country music artist to receive the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song…On her new album, The Magic Hour, Aoife O’Donovan gets an able assist from fellow Brooklyn transplants Chris Thile (Punch Brothers), Gabriel Kahane and Sarah Jarosz, as well as the string quartet Brooklyn Rider and Nickel Creek’s Sara Watkins…Veteran soul and R&B singer Charles Bradley’s new album, Changes, is due out April 1…Singer-songwriter Rebecca Pronsky, the Saint Ann’s School alumnus who the Montreal Gazette dubbed the “new Joni Mitchell,” is putting the finishing touches on her new album, Known Objects. It’s slated for a May 3 release, but you can buy a copy at her Jalopy show on April 15… Elizabeth Ziman (Elizabeth and the Catapult), whose song “Someday Soon” won the 2015 Independent Music Award in the Folk/Singer-Songwriter category, is working on her crowd-sourced, as-yet-untitled fourth album in Williamsburg’s Studio G…. a lyric video of American Nomads‘ new single, “A Revelation’s Gonna Come,” has been released on YouTube in advance of their March 19 show at Rockwood Music Hall…Kudos to Lucius on selling out back-to-back shows at the Music Hall of Williamsburg (March 31) and Webster Hall (April 1)…A tip of the hat also to Sharon Van Etten, one of a handful of artists chosen the play at the “Sweet 16” anniversary party for NPR’s All Songs Considered…

Angelique Kidjo/ photo by Howard B. Leibowitz B.L.Howard Productions

…..and finally, congratulations to Angelique Kidjo on earning her third Grammy Award (Best World Music Album) and New Utrecht High School graduate Anthony Ramos for his first, for his breakout role in the groundbreaking Broadway musical, Hamilton.

Notable Quote: “The musical blows the dust off your soul.” –Mel Brooks

Lucius / photo by Howard B. Leibowitz B.L.Howard Productions

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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