Cassandra Jenkins: It’s in Her “Nature” to Keep Folk Alive

July 25, 2022 by Michela Arlia

An Overview On Phenomenal Nature Album Cover Art

An Overview on Phenomenal Nature Cover Art

Cassandra Jenkins is a Brooklyn-based musician, singer and songwriter. Currently on tour in support of her latest album, An Overview on Phenomenal Nature, Jenkins tells Brooklyn Roads how she got to where she is today.

Jenkins is no stranger to music, as she grew up in a musical family where, at just twelve years old, she toured with her family band to play folk music at festivals around the country. She cites artists such as Cole Porter and Billy Joel as well as the jazz genre for music that influenced her taste today, which stems mostly from her parents’ preferences.

“I always wonder what it would have been like to have grown up with rock ’n’ roll parents. Or Steely Dan parents. They never got that bug,” she says. Jenkins adds that her musical family has advised her many times to not continue the path, but that music always pulled her back in.

Cassandra Jenkins On The Road / photo by Wyndham Boylan-Garnett / courtesy of Siren’s Call PR

Her biggest source of creativity lies in the subway. While she is Brooklyn born, commuting from Manhattan where she lives is where inspiration often strikes.

“I end up writing a lot of lyrics on the subway, and often use that time to process everything I’m doing,” says Jenkins. “There’s a lot going on, so it’s endlessly inspiring.”

Brooklyn has helped shape her musical creativity. She tells us that “Brooklyn is certainly a hub” where she has been able to meet and collaborate with many amazing artists.

Cassandra Jenkins / photo by Wyndham Boylan-Garnett / courtesy of Siren’s Call PR

When asked to describe what her music can best be classified as, Jenkins says, “Everything under the sun. To quote Joni Mitchell, ‘I’m a folk musician, so I’m a mimic at heart.’” Jenkins also tells Brooklyn Roads that while New York City, specifically Brooklyn, may hold a certain pressure to always present your true self as an artist, it’s OK to still perform even if things aren’t perfect.

“Let’s nurture more spaces where we can put on shows that strive to push the boundaries of our abilities, knowing we might fail miserably in the company of friends doing the same thing,” she says. Some Brooklyn venues that she credits with allowing her to experiment her work are Union Pool and Jalopy Theater.

“These are the places that have helped me grow over the years because I felt free to work out my kinks and try new things,” Jenkins says.

Catch Cassandra Jenkins touring now through October.

Artists on our Radar

Ricky Stein: Texas Roots in Brooklyn

Ricky Stein/ photo courtesy of the artist

If you’re looking for music inspired by New York City with a Texan flare, look no further than Ricky Stein, a Brooklyn-based artist originally from Austin, Texas. Stein is a singer-songwriter whose music is grounded by a combination of his upbringing in Texas and his present life in the bustling streets of New York City and Downtown Brooklyn. Stein has an impressive discography of singles and albums, and since moving to New York City in August 2016, he has released a full album, “Long Summer” and many singles. Stein’s music is best defined as Americana and roots, with folk-infused acoustic and electric guitars, and his lyrics paint vivid images of nature and life. The listener feels connected to Stein, as his musical stylings resemble talent from the likes of John Prine and Bonnie Raitt. His most recent single, “Passenger,” highlights Stein’s talents with a strong harmonica section. The song’s instrumentation and structure is built on one verse, which compliments the song’s message about the uncertainty and ominousness of being a passenger on a long journey. Another standout, “Street Lights,” is a lighthearted commentary on the comfort of hope, the street lights representing persistent light even in the dead of night. Stein’s live performances are carefully tailored, his sets performed at local venues in Brooklyn like Pete’s Candy Store and many other venues known to support live roots and country music. His talents are always showcased, whether performing a solo show with a guitar and harmonica or being supported by a full band. Stein’s upcoming months are packed with performances at many venues, including Saturday, January 11th at Skinny Dennis Bar in Williamsburg and Friday, March 7th at Sunny’s Bar in Red Hook. You won’t want to miss it!

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