Brooklyn’s Best: The Year So Far

August 26, 2019 by David K. Moseder

Cher at Barclays Center / photo © by Debra L. Rothenberg

The first eight months of 2019 have proven to be a microcosm of the music renaissance that has swept Brooklyn over the last two decades. Today more than ever our borough is recognized as a premier producer and generator of great new talent of diverse genres as well as a must-play destination for top established artists.

Patti LaBelle Wows Brooklyn ! / photo by David Andrakos

Among the bona fide music legends whose shows we saw in 2019 was Cher, who, at age 73, proved that she still has the power to turn back time as she wowed an overflow crowd at Barclays Center on May 2. Not to be outdone, Patti LaBelle – the Godmother of Soul – launched the 41st season of Celebrate Brooklyn! in Prospect Park by headlining the opening night concert, June 4.

The National at CB! / photo by Kyra Kverno

The following week, Brooklyn Roads saw two powerhouse acts on that same stage – long-time Brooklyn residents The National and Australia’s Courtney Barnett.In July a group with Brooklyn roots, the Americana trio, I’m With Her, dazzled us at CB! with their impeccable musicianship, gorgeous vocals and superb songwriting.

Courtney Barnett at CB! / photo by Kyra Kverno

We got down with an evening of home-grown funk with The Budos Band, Menahan Street Band and Holy Hive at the Music Hall of Williamsburg in April and again with the dance-friendly grooves of local boogie sensations Escort at Elsewhere in May.

Brooklyn Roads was also on hand for the debut of a new monthly acoustic music series, Live From The Vault at Putnam’s Pub & Cooker in Fort Greene’s in April, as well as the February album launch show for Jan Bell & The Maybelles’ Goodbye to the River. (Bell is the founder and curator of the upcoming Brooklyn Americana Music Festival, September 19-22.)

Local emerging “Artists On Our Radar” we got to know over these past several months include the post-punk band Bodega; spacey indie rockers AMFM; Quarter Water, a hip-hop neo soul quintet; M. West with his “accessible yet edgy” punk-pop-rock; Dan Rauchwerk, half of the quirky folk duo Lords of Liechtenstein; and Sarah Cobb, aka electro-pop sensation ESS SEE. These artists, who represent Brooklyn’s musical diversity, all praised the borough and its influence on their development and creativity.

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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