Dana Athens’ The Same Love Is Not The Same

November 13, 2023 by Giulia Arlia

Brooklyn native Dana Athens begins a solo side project following the success of her band, Jane Lee Hooker, to release an inspiring album. Entitled The Same Love, Athens’ soulful voice shines through a blend of rock, funk, and pop-infused songs. and she redefines her versatility through this fun and colorful album.

The Same Love -album cover

While Brooklyn Roads covered the lead single , “In My Bones,” released earlier this year, listening to it as a leading track into the emotional journey of the rest of the album is an important experience for all listeners. The song reflects Athens finding herself in the midst of change, making you feel excited for the future through bright electric guitar riffs and explosive choruses featuring powerhouse vocals.

“Easier Said Than Done” features vibrant trumpet sections to begin and underlying organ sections in the bridge, changes from Athens’ signature rock influence. Throughout, panned vocals echo Athens’ main lyrics, elevating the listener. Once again singing about change, Athens parallels the steady building of emotion with the chorus lyrics, “pressure builds up/push comes to shove.” Distorted vocals segueing into the outro, this track is a must listen and guaranteed to be a fan-favorite.

“Tip of My Tongue” takes a different approach than the feel-good quality of previous tracks. An emotional ballad, Athens cries of her declaration of love failing to come out at the opportune moment, expressing, “I can’t admit this is love.” The instrumentation of this song prevails, having its ups and downs, highlighting the singer’s lower register in softer verses. The titular track, “The Same Love”, seems to be a modern take of songs by The Temptations, having a similar Motown feeling, with influences from later pop rock bands such as Hootie & theBlowfish. The instrumentation of this song attracts the immediate attention of the listener. Yet another musical genre is touched upon in “Peace. Love. Shine.” Powerful gospel vocals add to Athens’ passionate call for peace, singing “Let love shine/And may peace be with you.”

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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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