The Photo Pit-A Musical Journey in 2023

March 5, 2024 by Kyra Kverno

Editor’s Note: Contributing Photographer Kyra Kverno shares some of her images and observations from some of 2023’s live music events in Brooklyn and Beyond:

Gearing up for another season of festivals and concerts in 2024.

Here is a look back at of some images from 2023’s highlights. Long time favorite Celebrate Brooklyn! in Prospect Park with legends like Rickie Lee Jones and John Cale. Our end of summer yearly blowout at Afropunk, celebrating in its new location with Inko, Vince Staples and more. A first time, but hopefully not the last for us, Brooklyn Roads traveled to Asbury Park, New Jersey for the Sea Hear Now Festival , with bands such as The Beach Boys & Living Colour. We look forward to these festivals and more as we move into spring and summer .

It’s right around the corner!

: Chris Pierce at Celebrate Brooklyn!

: Inko at Afropunk Brooklyn

: John Cale at Celebrate Brooklyn !

: John Stamos at Sea.Hear.Now

: Corey Glover and Doug Wimbish of Living Colour at Sea.Hear.Now

: Rickie Lee Jones at Celebrate Brooklyn!

: Thornetta Davis at Celebrate Brooklyn!

: Tobe Nwwigwe at Afropunk Brooklyn

: Tomberlin at Celebrate Brooklyn!

: Vince Staples at Afropunk Brooklyn

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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