Drawing Pretty Things

The Recording Project: Week Four

2008-01-03T15:29:00.000-05:00

The Recording Project:

This is the fourth week of my new recording project. I've finished two songs to my satisfaction, and that's a great feeling. In the past, I've started and abandoned many projects for various reasons. I lacked equipment, the expertise to use it, and the patience to perfect my work. I've been performing for over ten years, and I wanted to be in the moment, record a live performance, and be done. But that wasn't working. It sounded like poop (and not the virtual stuff I fling at you guys on FaceBook).

So I've started work on an album "Who We Are, What We Have Done". Although the guitar and vocal parts are often completed in one take, I'm working on taking my time with the songs, arranging, writing parts, experimenting with sound. I feel like something has clicked and I'm excited to see what's coming next.

The first two songs are called "Atlas Shrugged" and "Broken Thing". I wrote both last month and they can be streamed at www.myspace.com/jessirobertson and www.sonicbids.com/jessirobertson. I don't intend to record any old songs, with the exception of one I had previously called "Little Sister" but is now titled, "Papers and Magazines". The album title also came from that song. Most likely I won't stream any others until the album is finished. I've gotta keep a little mystery alive.

Meanwhile, I've decided to keep a blog of my experiences while trying to tackle the impossible and actually complete an album after ten years, and get it out on CD and iTunes. I've also got some cool ideas for bonus materials, but that's a secret too (imagine me sticking out my tongue, waving my arms around, and singing "na na na boo boo" here).

But seriously, I want to write about this experience which is a first for me, and I know is going to be magical. Even if no one reads this, I want to look back at this experience someday and remember the joy of being able to create music completely on my own terms, with no one else to help or hinder me.

Jessi, Joe Wilson, & Matt Singer at the American Folk Art Museum

2007-12-05T14:11:00.000-05:00

On January 11th, 2008 Jessi Robertson, Joe Wilson, and Matt Singer will play at the American Folk Art Museum in Manhattan as part of Free Music Fridays. This showcase is presented by the Local Correspondents Community. Please come out on Friday between 5pm and 7:30pm to hear free music in a beautiful setting. The American Folk Art Museum is located at 45 W. 53rd St. between 5th and 6th Ave.

Jessi, Tanya, and No Lindsay at Bar4 December 14th, 8pm!

2007-11-28T10:26:00.000-05:00

Come on out to Bar4 on Friday December 14th for a free show with me (Jessi) at 8pm, Tanya Buziak at 9pm, and No Lindsay at 10pm. This is the last night of our Electro-Acoustic residency and my last show for the lovely year of 2007. Bring on 2008!

Friday November 9th: Jessi's Bday Party at Bar4

2007-10-17T13:29:00.000-04:00

Mark it down on your calendars folks! Friday November 9th is my birthday. You know, the first year I spent in NY I had the worst birthday ever. EVER! So to make up for it, I've been having bigger and awesomer (not a word, I know) parties every year, at my favorite drink oasis, Bar4. This year promises to be intense, entertaining, and EVEN AWESOMER!

Lots of my favorite artists will be sharing a few songs each, including:

The Ericksons
Gemma Connell
Matt Cranstoun
Peter Inc
Jeff Jacobson
Sean Ellick
Matt Singer
Paul Basile
Ivan Sandomire
Sean Han
No Lindsay
Sami Akbari
Joe Wilson
Andy Mac
Bryan Dunn
Wakey! Wakey!
Tanya Buziak
Tarrah Reynolds
Tom Hayes
Paula Valstein

This is going to be the Best Party of 2007 (according to me) and it's FREE!!! Music starts around 6:30pm and goes until the AM so prepare yourself to last all night.

The Damaged Part on Underground 40 IAC Chart

2007-10-12T16:17:00.000-04:00

Last week my song, The Damaged Part, was #38 on Independent Artist Community's Underground 40 chart. This week it has climbed up to #36.

Friday October 19th: Electro Acoustic Residency at Bar4

2007-10-12T13:43:00.000-04:00

Electro Acoustic at Bar4 features Jessi Robertson, No Lindsay, and Tanya Buziak. The first show is Friday October 19th at 8:30pm sharp, featuring short sets from Jessi, Tanya, and No Lindsay. Future shows will feature longer sets.

Bar4 is at 444 7th Ave in Park Slope (Brooklyn, NY). Take the F train to 7th Ave. Exit at 7th Ave. and 9th St. Bar4 is just six short blocks up to 15th St. & 7th Ave. Visit Local Correspondents for more info.

Wednesday Oct. 10th: Jessi at 68 Jay St. Bar in DUMBO!

2007-10-07T20:18:00.000-04:00

I will be playing two 45 minute sets in lovely DUMBO this Wednesday October 10th at 8pm. Take the F train to York and walk two blocks to Water St. The venue is called 68 Jay St. Bar. This should be a great night of music! See you there!

Resources are moving to their own blog

2007-10-04T15:51:00.000-04:00

This is all getting to confusing. There's all this Jessi Robertson stuff mixed in with my blog about Indie Music Resources. Weird. As of today, I am moving all the Resource posts over to their very own blog called... da da da daaaa INDIE MUSIC RESOURCES BLOG (yes, I am shouting in excitement)!

Please be patient while I get rid of old posts and move links, etc. And thanks for reading!

Buy mini-albums from MyStore

2007-09-27T13:29:00.001-04:00

Released today, five "mini-albums" of my stuff. Four were recorded by me, in my apartment. "There's glass all over the floor" was recorded by Michael Kenneth. From time to time I have put out songs for download here and there. I still don't have a CD. But now I have collected some of the best stuff from the last couple of years, and I hope you enjoy it. Songs can also be purchased individually.

Now Available:

BLACK MARKET APPLES - 8 songs, $7.99

MEMORY & ABANDONED PARTS - 5 songs, $4.99

WHISPER'S LOST - 7 songs, $6.99

WISHING, WISHING, WISHING - 5 songs, $4.99

THERE'S GLASS ALL OVER THE FLOOR - 9 songs, $8.99

Categories: Jessi, Robertson, Digital, Download, Mp3s, SNOCAP, MyStore

Video: Jessi performing Ghost Story at Matchless

2007-09-25T11:51:00.000-04:00

This may be my favorite one. Katharine is an angel.

Categories: Jessi, Robertson, Video, Live, Ghost, Story, Matchless, Brooklyn

Video: Jessi performing Losing Someone at Matchless

2007-09-25T11:50:00.001-04:00

Katharine is amaaaaazing for filming this.

Categories: Jessi, Robertson, Live, Video, Matchless, Brooklyn, Losing, Someone

Video: Jessi performing Lipstick at Matchless

2007-09-25T11:48:00.001-04:00

This video can also be streamed at YouTube. Thanks for this Katharine!

Categories: Video, Live, Jessi, Robertson, Matchless, Brooklyn, Lipstick

Video: Jessi performing Communion at Matchless

2007-09-25T11:45:00.000-04:00

This is a video of me performing Communion live at Matchless. Thanks Katharine!

Categories: Video, Live, Jessi, Robertson, Matchless, Brooklyn, Communion

Video: Jessi singing back-up with Joe Wilson on Seattle

2007-09-25T11:41:00.000-04:00

Did I mention how much I love this song Seattle by Joe Wilson? Thanks again to Katharine for not only putting together an awesome show on her birthday, but also filming during the party. That girl can multi-task! This video can also be viewed at Music Nation.

Categories: Jessi, Robertson, Joe, Wilson, Live, Video, Seattle, Matchless, MusicNation, New, York, Brooklyn

Video: Jessi singing back-up with Joe Wilson on Even the Flux Capacitor Can't Save Us Now (spelling?)

2007-09-25T11:28:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Katharine for filming this video on the night of her birthday party, August 2007 at Matchless. Peter Inc, Joe Wilson, and I had a great time celebrating! This video was uploaded to a new music video site called Music Nation. It started out as a contest for a record deal. The site is still beta but has recently undergone a facelift. The interface is much sleeker and many new features have been added. Meanwhile check out this video of Joe Wilson performing "Even the Flux Capacitor Can't Save Us Now" (I hope I spelled that right). Joe is brilliant. I am the giant-ess with the Corona.

Oh, and here's a link to my Music Nation page too: http://jessirobertson.musicnation.com

Categories: Music, Video, Jessi, Robertson, Joe, Wilson, Flux, Capacitor, Matchless, Brooklyn, New, York, Live

Video: Jessi performing Losing Someone at Matchless

2007-09-25T11:20:00.000-04:00

Katharine is amaaaaazing for filming this.

Categories: Jessi, Robertson, Live, Video, Matchless, Brooklyn, Losing, Someone

September Concert: Together we fill the skies with music

2007-09-11T09:58:00.000-04:00

September Concert is a series of free concerts, organized by individuals, schools, businesses, and associations
- to bring communities together
- to reaffirm our hope for peace
- to celebrate life and our universal humanity

"After silence, that which comes nearest
to expressing the inexpressible is music.""

Inspired by these words of Aldous Huxley, The September Concert was born in 2002 on the first anniversary of 9/11. Since then, on each anniversary our message of peace through music has spread further and further.

In 2006 we organized 225 individual concerts with more than 3,400 performers. In addition to 100 concerts in New York City, 50 U.S. cities hosted concerts as well as 35 international cities.

All concerts adhere to three basic principles:
* Freedom: All venues and musicians are free to design
and organize their own concerts.
* Equality: All music and all musicians are treated equally,
regardless of genre or background.
* Accessibility: All music is offered free of charge.

This will be my fourth year curating for the September Concert. The first year was at Bar4. I think the lovely Crystal Brandt played that night and Bethany from the Feverfew. The second year was at Cornelia St. Cafe. Nick Howard and Ellie Lawson also played that evening. The third yeas was at Rockwood Music Hall in collaboration with Alloy Radio and Local Correspondents. I had so much support from everyone and it was the first year that I helped to choose all the artists.

This year I return to Rockwood Music Hall, with the help of the Local Correspondents Team. September 11th starting at 6pm there will be a stellar line-up of musicians sharing their music to promote healing and community.

6pm - 1am
Joe Wilson
Matt Singer
Paul Basile
Ivan Sandomire
Tom Hayes
Paula Valstein
Kevin Johnston
Tarrah Reynolds
Tanya Buziak
No Lindsay
Jessi
Chelsea Lynn LaBate
Steve Waitt

If you are a musician, venue, or promoter, I strongly urge you to get involved with this community event. Please visit the site at http://septemberconcert.org for more information on September Concert.

Categories: September, Concert, Events, Shows, Neighborhood, Community, Local, Correspondents

The Ultimate Link List: Jessi's Bookmarks

2007-08-27T10:29:00.000-04:00

UPDATED 9/27/2007

I freely admit that I am a bit obsessive when it comes to bookmarking useful sites. So my compulsion will now be put to good use thanks to del.icio.us, the social bookmarking site. I am posting a list of links here, that reference all sorts of things, from hacking your MySpace template to local NY music organizations. I will also be adding to this soon with links to my many, many websites as well as some of my favorite local indie bands. I'll put this somewhere on the front page too. Happy surfing!

Jessi's links on del.icio.us

Blogs

Multiply
Blogger
WordPress
LiveJournal.com

Web Design Tools

W3Schools Online Web Tutorials

Music Resources

NY Resources

Reference and Advice

iSOUND Artist Blog
Indie Contact Newsletter
Now Form A Band

Loops and Samples

iZotope Vinyl - Authentic Lo-Fi Vinyl Simulation for Pro Tools, VST, MAS, Audio Unit, and DirectX audio applications
Macloops - Free Apple Loops and Free Garageband Loops for Apple Pro Logic
Garageband Loops - Download Apple Loops Drum Loops for Garageband

Categories: links, social, bookmarks, networking, delicious

Video: Eggshell Heart at Rockwood Music Hall

2007-08-20T16:27:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Larry Hyland for taking this video of Greg Tuohey and I playing Eggshell Heart at Rockwood Music Hall.

Visit my YouTube channel here:

Categories: Jessi, Video, Greg, Rockwood

Jessi Live: Saturday August 18 @ Matchless

2007-08-15T13:22:00.000-04:00

Come to Matchless this Saturday for great free live music! Celebrate Katharine's and Peter's birthday.

8pm Peter Inc
9pm Joe Wilson
10pm Jessi

August 5th, Midnight: Jessi solo at Rockwood Music Hall

2007-07-13T14:17:00.000-04:00

I am playing a solo show at the lovely Rockwood Music Hall on Sunday, August 5th at Midnight. It's free to get in. Please come. I love Rockwood. You love Rockwood. You know want to.

LC Music Festival: Day Four Recap

2007-07-13T13:23:00.000-04:00

It took me awhile to get to writing this recap, because I'm a little sad now that the festival is over. For four days I was in the company of some of my favorite people and treated to the best local music in NYC. It's a little hard to recover from. And now, my everyday life has resumed.

Saturday was in many ways a magical night. Some friends of mine had just arrived from the UK and I think seeing their reactions to the music made it even more special for me. Holly filmed the evening and interviewed musicians out on the sidewalk. Tanya and I were a bit camera shy, so we shared an interview and then we couldn't stop talking.

Mikey Die started off the night with a subtle, understated vocal style that is unusual and lovely. Lara Ewen followed, with sweet, timeless songs from her recently released album. Then Bryan Dunn. Oh Bryan Dunn, thank you for playing the BEST cover version in the world of Prince's "Kiss"! I love you forever for doing that. And I also enjoyed Bryan's original songs like "Geraldine" and "AudioStereoRadio."

Next up, Andy Mac! Andy always makes me smile. I can't help it, it's infectious. Beautiful vocals from Jennie Muoio. Big, bad bass from Jim McNamara. Sigh (of goodness)! The magnificent Casey Shea played some gorgeous songs, accompanied by Jeff Jacobson. There was a beautiful moment where the entire bar was singing "Roll Your Windows Down." Everyone was participating and joining their voices together. It gave me shivers. Every time I hear Jeff Jacobson play I fall more and more in love with his voice and songs. When he played "Castles" I think everyone in the bar was singing and tapping things and stomping their feet. It was riotous and sweet.

Wakey! Wakey! played some mean, mean piano and belted out his unrelenting melodies. War Sweater is one of my favorite songs. When I first heard Mike whisper "cuz we fucked it all up" this gleeful dark chill went down my spine. His delivery is flawless. That song has such dynamic tension. Matt Singer had the entire room giggling with his song about the American Idol contestant. Let me just tell you, he is a naughty man and I love him for it. Matt is probably the best lyricist I've met in NY. Which makes me very jealous, but still full of love.

Oh and then The Picture played. How can I explain my Picture love.... hmm. Well, their last album spins religiously on my iPod. RE-LI-GIOUS-LY. It is such an addictive album. Their songs have these amazing emotional high points that draw you in. You can't stop from singing the lines at the top of your lungs. Even though you know you may look and sound a little silly. You just get lost in it and you don't care. (PS - Their CD Release party is next Friday July 20th at Mercury Lounge. Lowry and Blip Blip Bleep are on the bill! Woot!)

Only Paula Valstein can quiet a bar full of Saturday night drinkers. I was a bit worried because the bar had hit a loud point as she was setting up. I told her I would beat them into submission if she needed me to. But the girl sang one blissful note and the entire bar was in love with her. Then she proceeded to ROCK OUT! Absolutely beautiful. And my Irish friend Tom Hayes. Tom is an adorable, lovely, sweet man with incredible talent. His voice is a true instrument with a distinct timbre. Don't even get me started on the way the boy floats out melismas. I am envious of the way he can hit a dozen notes without missing a pitch on a breath.

Gene Back played the best show I have ever seen him play. He was confident and pretty much owned the stage. His joy in playing was contagious. It was so nice to hear him get on that piano. I love watching him play guitar... and violin... and piano... ok, you get the point.

Finally, last but definitely not least, Jeff Schram (you must imagine yourself singing "Jeff Schram" to the tune of BATMAN while you are reading this blog). I am a huge fan of Jeff's new songs, like "False Alarm." Don't get me wrong, I love me some "Devil Ain't Got a Chance" but I think Jeff has really come into his own with the release of his latest recording. The songwriting is brilliant and he has written some very intense and intricate melodic structures.

But now I am winding down, coming to the end of the night's recap. Ah, I was just reliving it all for a moment. Well, there's always next year for the 2nd Annual Fest, and it can't come soon enough in my opinion.

Love and Kudos to:

The PERFORMERS: Mikey Die, Lara Ewen, Bryan Dunn, Andy Mac, Casey Shea, Jeff Jacobson, Wakey! Wakey!, Matt Singer, The Picture, Paula Valstein, Tom Hayes, Gene Back, and Jeff Schram.

Holly - Thanks so much for being there all night to capture it on film!

Larry, Peter, and Ted - You have the best music venues in Brooklyn, hands down. Your commitment to supporting and encouraging artists is exceptional. The venues are beautiful, but it would not be the same without the feeling of warmth and family that you bring to everything you do. I have so much respect for you. Thank you!

Tanya Buziak - My partner in shushing! The originator of the open mic! You have helped so many people develop and believe in themselves. You have literally changed people's lives and that must be such a good feeling. I know you keep insanely busy, so you probably don't have time to sit back and think about it, but you should be extremely proud and satisfied with what you've accomplished.

Greg Tuohey - I would not have survived this whole thing without you. Remember back in the day when you thought up the showcase idea? (People, don't forget to give Greg his props! He is a huge part of the LC Team! Just wanted to remind you, Greg is the biznizzle.) I think you also hold the record for playing with the most acts in the festival. Everyone wants you by their side, because you feel their music, you get it and you add something beautiful to it. I miss it when you're not playing with me. If only we could clone you, because you are bound to be even busier after this! I believe you are the most in demand guitarist in NY. And you are also one of my favorite, favorite people. Mwah!

ANOTHER HumbleVoice feature: VIDEO!

2007-07-10T09:35:00.000-04:00

Um, seriously people, how many times do I need to tell you about the awesomeness that is Humble Voice? I am still listed under the Humble Voice features on their music page, and they've now added a nice, big feature of my song "Eggshell Heart" on the video page. This was a live performance of Greg Tuohey and I filmed at Rockwood Music Hall by the great Larry Hyland.

Check out Humble Voice for Art, Music, Video, Photography, Word. They have great taste. After all, they choose to feature ME didn't they???

Categories: Musicians, Resources, HumbleVoice, Video, Jessi, Feature

LC Music Festival: Day Three Recap

2007-07-09T09:59:00.001-04:00

Sorry this took so long guys. I needed a little vacation after the LC Fest.

The Friday show could not have gone smoother. Everyone sounded amazing, and the night flowed seamlessly. This was a night with a lot of friends and artists that have been involved in Local Correspondents from the start, plus a few newer people that play frequently at Matchless and Bar4. One of the things I really appreciated is how many performers came early and stayed late. It really shows how supportive a community LC has become. This was the longest night, with fourteen performers but it flew by for me. I was excited to see old friends like Keith Varick and Joe Wilson. And I have to say Olga (Bell) deserves huge thanks for coming out and playing late after she spent the day moving.

Thanks to everyone who made this night possible:

Performers: Peter Inc, Keith Varick, Sami Akbari, Joe Wilson, Sean Han, Red Orange Morning, Zach Williams, Daniel Wayne, Matt Cranstoun, The Reverend John DeLore (& Kara, Aya, Steve), Bell, Mark Yodice, Austin Donahue, FK Ridge

Larry, Ted, and Peter: Thank you again for welcoming and supporting all the musicians and artists in your lovely venues.

Tanya: The hardest working woman in Music! You always point out the new people that I should pay attention to. You have a great ear for music.

Niko: Amazing sound as always!

Greg: My musical genius.

LC Music Festival: Day Two Recap

2007-06-29T16:20:00.001-04:00

I want LC Festival t-shirts. This is indeed a music festival and Day Two surpassed everyone's expectation. At times, the place was so packed you could hardly find a place to stand. There were some unexpected treats, like Here Lies Pa putting in a full band appearance, Kevin Johnston breaking out the trombone, and Lowry fitting all six members on stage and sounding like pure gold. It was fun to see people within the group collaborating, like Tanya Buziak singing on a David Shane Smith song, Matt Cranstoun playing the drums for Tanya, Greg playing guitar with Ivan Sandomire. AND I finally got to hear God Fires Man play!

I feel the momentum building and am excited for what the next two days will bring. It was so exciting to be a part of the events last night. I feel so proud of everyone and am impressed with how great Bar4 sounds, and the possibilities for having full bands play.

Again, love to the following people:

Performers: Matthew Peverly, Here Lies Pa, Willie Breeding, David Shane Smith, Takenobu, Lowry, Kevin Johnston / Adios Esposito, Owen McCarthy, Tanya Buziak, Ivan Sandomire, Frank Hoier, Debe Dalton, God Fires Man (acoustic).

Larry, Ted, and Peter: Your place is awesome! I can't wait to do a full set myself. It's such a great venue and the artists and neighborhood will benefit greatly because of your efforts.

Tanya: You help keep everything running smooth each night. You sounded amazing and you made all the performers feel at home.

Niko: The King of Live Sound. That is what I shall dub you Niko. You worked so hard last night. Somehow navigating through the crowd and keeping everything together.

Greg: Always in it for the long haul. You are my favorite guitarist, bartender, and roommate.

LC Music Festival: Day One Recap

2007-06-28T14:57:00.000-04:00

Day One

Last night was the first evening of the 1st Annual Local Correspondents Music Festival and New Bar4 Party. I actually think it was the best night of my life, and can only look forward to the next three days with boundless anticipation. All the artists that performed were exceptionally talented. Tanya and I talked after the show, about how if people would have told us two years ago that these artists would be our friends, peers, and part of our urban family... we'd never believe it.

There was such a warm and welcoming vibe in the room last night, and even when people came in for a drink rather than the festival, they entered into the spirit of the night. Bar4 is so different now with brick walls exposed, the stage area extended, higher ceilings, and the lovely piano. But one thing that hasn't changed is the relaxed atmosphere and friendly people.

13 artists performed yesterday, and we stayed absolutely on schedule and ended the night on time. That has got to be the first time ever in history that an event involving musicians ended on time. I was not only delighted with everyone's stunning performances, but I was proud of everyone's courteous behavior.

By the end of the evening I was just beaming. Tonight is another ridiculously stellar line-up and I'm already getting excited to see everyone perform! For a full list of artists, check out www.localcorrespondents.com!

Shout Outs:

Performers: Many thanks to Jamie Rae, Michael Wagner, Merrady (& Gene Back), MaryEllen DeVaux, Well-Enough Folk Band (Helen, Tom, & Tanya), Tarrah Reynolds, Johnny Marnell, Heidi Sidelinker, The Human Problem, John Simonelli, Jonah Bleicher, and Rob of No Lindsay. You all blew me away last night. You are at the heart of the LC Community and you made our first night a resounding success!

Larry, Ted, and Peter: Thank you for creating this beautiful Brooklyn venue and for welcoming artists and musicians in your establishments. Your support and encouragement has blessed me in so many ways.

Tanya: I have so much admiration and respect for you. None of this would be happening right now if not for the energy and hard work you've invested tirelessly in the open mic nights and LC showcases.

Niko: You are the best sound engineer ever! You made this whole night run like clockwork.

Greg: Thank you for only letting me have one adult beverage per hour, for playing an awesome set with me, and for coming up with the great idea to have live music showcases at Bar4.

LC Team (Larry, Tanya, Greg): You should be so proud of what you've accomplished.

My loyal readers: Sorry, I realize this is all gushy and sentimental. But last night literally rocked my world and props are in order. Come out tonight and you'll know exactly what I mean.

Humble Voice: More on Jessi's feature

2007-06-28T14:52:00.000-04:00

I just got this awesome email from Humble Voice. See me as a featured artist in Music?



Music The Strokes The Audience Trance Authority Luminous Beings Jessi Robertson	Video Esnake 316 Alcaby Bee Menteroja Matt Achziger	Photography Pixelkeeda Andrea Francesco Ryan Detter Jack McMahon Mark Jaworski	Art Derek Tan Philipp Schilling Greg Smeeth Maria Picasso João Oliveira	Word Alison Anthony Alex Moser Manuela Gomez
Login in and tell a friend about Humble Voice.

Jessi: Featured Artist on HumbleVoice

2007-06-27T13:49:00.000-04:00

How much do I love HumbleVoice now? I already told you guys it's a cool site. And they put me as a featured artist on their music page. Go check it out! Wow, I am totally patting myself on the back right now.

Categories: Jessi, Robertson, Media, Music, HumbleVoice

Jessi's in Indie Sounds NY

2007-06-25T10:45:00.000-04:00

Indie Sounds NY focuses on independent musicians in the NYC area. I was recently asked to answer "Five Vital Questions" in Issue 24, July 2007.

Here are my answers:

"Five Vital Questions for... Jessi Robertson"

Indie Sounds: Do you tell lies?
Jessi Robertson: Only when necessary to protect someone's fragile ego. Also, if you are lame.

IS: Who would be in your dream band?
Jessi: Definitely all the guys from Seems So Bright ... if only I could get rid of their singer. Damn you, Michael Simone!

IS: Your favorite stimulant?
Jessi: Whiskey, hands down. Diet Coke is a close second. Or mix them together! Yum!

IS: How do you make a million dollars playing folk music?
Jessi: Probably a combination of folk music and whoring.

IS: Your candidate for the next president?
Jessi: Steve Jobs. I bet the guy that came up with iPods can make the U.S. cool again.

Catch Jessi performing solo or with her band Asher, are you drawing pretty things?
Jessi continues to take an active part in the Local Correspondents collective.

Web: www.asherareyou.com
MySpace: asherareyou

Questions: Mistress Tessa Perry,
www.tessaperry.com

Categories: Jessi, Robertson, Indie, Sounds, NY, Press, Interview

1st Annual LC Music Festival this week at Bar4!

2007-06-25T10:31:00.000-04:00

Bar4 is my favorite place to hang out and has recently gotten a makeover. There's a new extended stage, professional lighting, and an upright piano. I predict the already cozy neighborhood bar is on its way to becoming the best venue in Brooklyn for singer/songwriters and acoustic bands.

This week the Local Correspondents Community presents their 1st Annual Music Festival at Bar4. 4 nights with 52 local indie acts. Work by local artist Amy Shawley will also be featured.

All shows are free!

Day One
Wednesday June 27th, 7:30am - 2:00am

Jamie Rae
www.jamieraemusic.com
www.myspace.com/jamieraemusic

Michael Wagner
www.chappymusic.com/ukulele.php
www.myspace.com/newamericanfolk

Merrady
www.merrady.com
www.myspace.com/merrady

MaryEllen DeVaux
www.myspace.com/maryellendevaux

Well-Enough Folk Band
www.myspace.com/wellenoughfolkband

Tarrah Reynolds
www.myspace.com/misstarrah

Johnny Marnell
www.myspace.com/johnnymarnell

Heidi Sidelinker
www.heidismusic.net
www.myspace.com/heidisidelinker

Ryan Alfred of the Human Problem
www.myspace.com/thehumanproblem

Jessi Robertson
http://drawingprettythings.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/jessirobertson

John Simonelli
www.myspace.com/johnsimonelli

Jonah Bleicher

No Linday (Rob solo)
www.myspace.com/nolindsay

Day Two
Thursday June 28th, 7:30am - 2:00am

Matthew Peverly
www.myspace.com/matthewpeverly
www.matthewpeverly.com

Paul Basile of Here Lies Pa
www.myspace.com/paulbasile
www.myspace.com/hereliespa

Willie Breeding
www.myspace.com/williebreedingmusic

David Shane Smith
www.myspace.com/davidshanesmith
www.myspace.com/davidshanesmith2

Takenobu
www.myspace.com/takenobu

Lowry
www.myspace.com/lowry

Kevin Johnston of Adios Esposito
www.myspace.com/kevinjohnston

Owen McCarthy
www.myspace.com/owenmccarthymusic

Tanya Buziak
www.tanyabuziak.net
www.myspace.com/buziak

Ivan Sandomire
www.craftyrecords.net
www.myspace.com/ivansandomire

Frank Hoier
www.myspace.com/frankhoier

Debe Dalton
www.myspace.com/debedalton

God Fires Man (acoustic)

www.myspace.com/godfiresman

Day Three
Friday June 29th, 7:30am - 2:00am

Day Four
Saturday June 30th, 7:30am - 2:00am

Mikey Die
www.myspace.com/mikeydie

Lara Ewen
www.unstrungmusic.com
www.myspace.com/laraewen

Bryan Dunn
www.myspace.com/bryandunn
www.bryandunnmusic.com

Andy Mac
www.myspace.com/andymac

Casey Shea
www.caseysheamusic.com
www.myspace.com/caseyshea

Jeff Jacobson
www.jeffjacobson.net
www.myspace.com/jeffjacobson

Wakey! Wakey!
www.wakeywakeymusic.com
www.myspace.com/wakeywakeymusic

The Picture
www.thepictureonline.com
www.myspace.com/thepicture

Matt Singer
www.matt-singer.com
www.myspace.com/mattsingermusic

Paula Valstein
www.walkintomadness.com
www.myspace.com/paulavalstein

Tom Hayes
www.thegoodmorrow.com
www.myspace.com/tommyhayes

Gene Back
www.myspace.com/geneback

Jeff Schram
www.myspace.com/jeffschram
www.jeffjeffjeff.com

Categories: Bar4, Art, LC, Local, Correspondents, Brooklyn, Music, Events, Shows, Festival

Podcasts: MixPosure

2007-05-29T10:09:00.000-04:00

Deja Vu and New York are featured in two MixPosure Radio podcasts:

http://mixposure.com/radioSelect.php
MixPix Radio: Brandon's Radio Show, Zest Radio Show

Categories: Media, Music, Podcasts, Streams, Zest, Radio, MixPosure, Jessi

Podcast: Stereo Graffiti

2007-05-29T09:43:00.000-04:00

Your Eyes Know is featured in 3 Stereo Graffiti podcasts.

Show 18: http://www.theradioshed.com/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.cgi?num=1150540174
Show 20: http://www.theradioshed.com/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.cgi?num=1152864115
Show 25: http://www.theradioshed.com/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.cgi?num=1158945636

Categories: Media, Music, Podcasts, Streams, Jessi, Stereo, Graffiti, Radio, Shed

Podcast: House of Kommons

2007-05-29T09:38:00.000-04:00

Eggshell Heart is featured in The Spice of Life podcast on LT Musick's House of Kommons

http://ltmuzick.com/featuring.html

Categories: Media, Music, Jessi, Podcast, Stream, Eggshell, Heart

New Song: I Want to Want Something

2007-05-24T09:45:00.000-04:00

I just finished a new song last night called, "I Want to Want Something." Here it is, recorded live, warts and all. There's some clipping distortion, but I just really liked the feel of this take, so I'm sharing it. Listen in the player below or on MySpace. To download, right click the link and choose "Save As" from the drop-down list or click on the down arrow in the player.

download song

Categories: Music, Media, Mp3s, Jessi, Live, Free, Streams, New

Blog Launch

2007-05-23T12:17:00.000-04:00

Even though I've been working on this for a little while now, I am considering today my official Blog launch for DrawingPrettyThings. There's lots more info to add and the site will be constantly changing, but as of now I consider this my landing pad. Check out all kinds of stuff reviews I've penned, to videos, and coming soon music resources where I'll give you the scoop on helpful artist tools.

Cheers,
Jessi

June 8th, 7pm: Asher, are you drawing pretty things? at Rockwood Music Hall

2007-05-21T15:50:00.000-04:00

Asher, are you drawing pretty things?
will perform a free show at

Rockwood Music Hall
www.rockwoodmusichall.com
196 Allen St between Houston & Stanton
New York, NY
10002

June 8th, 7pm
followed by Leah Siegel at 8pm

1 drink minimum

Categories: Music, Shows, Live, AsherAreYou, DrawingPrettyThings, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Greg, Tuohey, Manhattan, NY, Rockwood, Hall, June2007, Leah, Siegel

Review: Dan Schlaubach

2007-05-21T14:44:00.000-04:00

Dan’s songs are the ones you end up singing under your breath at 3am without even realizing what you’re doing. His voice is honest, and the wisdom in the words of his urban hymns makes you wonder if an old soul is lurking under youthful skin. An unorthodox guitar method and unusual chord structures are the bed he lays his addictive melodies on.

www.myspace.com/dannyschlaubach

Categories: Review, Dan, Schlaubach

Download.com Editor's Review

2007-05-17T17:25:00.000-04:00

I was thrilled to receive this Editor's Review on the music site Download.com:

"This New York singer-songwriter draws comparisons to equally spirited alt-folk muses Tori Amos and PJ Harvey. But with her quavering, spiritual verses, the analogy she deserves is with Jeff Buckley, gender difference or no."

Get some free Mp3s here:
http://music.download.com/jessirobertsonacoustic

Categories: Music, Media, Download.com, Mp3s, Free, Stream, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Reviews, Editor

MyStore: Buy Songs from Jessi & Asher, are you drawing pretty things?

2007-05-17T17:14:00.000-04:00

Categories: Music, Media, Downloads, Store, Shop, Buy, Mp3s, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Greg, Tuohey, AsherAreYou, DrawingPrettyThings

SonicBids: Jessi's EPK (electronic press kit)

2007-05-17T17:01:00.000-04:00

View Jessi Robertson's EPK

Click above to check out my electronic press kit.

Categories: Music, Media, SonicBids, EPK, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr

iLike: Jessi's Music Recommendations

2007-05-17T16:47:00.000-04:00

Categories: Music, Blog, iLike, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Recommended

MOG: What I'm Spinning

2007-05-17T16:38:00.000-04:00

Categories: Music, Blog, Mog, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Recommended

Calendar: Recommended Local Shows and Events

2007-05-16T15:01:00.000-04:00

Categories: Music, Calendar, Events, Neighborhood, Brooklyn, Manhattan, New, York, Local, Recommended

Calendar: Jessi & Asher, are you drawing pretty things?

2007-05-16T13:03:00.000-04:00

Categories: Music, Calendar, Shows, AsherAreYou, DrawingPrettyThings, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Greg, Tuohey, Upcoming, NY, Brooklyn, Manhattan

July 5, 2007, 11pm: Tanya & Jessi at Matchless

2007-05-16T10:09:00.000-04:00

My good friend Paul Aiden is coming to visit from the UK! He is an amazing musician and I am really excited about this show which fortuitously falls on his birthday.

Paul Aiden's Birthday at
Matchless
557 Manhattan Ave & Driggs
Brooklyn, NY
10012

featuring
8pm - Sami Akbari
www.samiakbari.com
www.myspace.com/samiakbari

9pm - Paul Aiden with Pippa Selby
www.myspace.com/grandcentralofficial
www.myspace.com/paulaiden
www.myspace.com/pippaselby

10pm - The Revolvers
www.myspace.com/revolversmusic

11pm - Tanya Buziak & Jessi
www.tanyabuziak.net
www.myspace.com/buziak
www.myspace.com/jessirobertson

Categories: Music, Shows, Live, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Tanya, Buziak, Sami, Akbari, Paul, Aiden, Pippa, Selby, Revolvers, Matchless, Brooklyn, NY, July2007

May 15th, 7pm: Jessi at Urbana Presents: Girls!

2007-05-15T13:12:00.000-04:00

Jessi will play a song (or two or three) at the upcoming Urbana Presents Showcase on May 15th featuring all female poets and musicians.

Urbana Presents (a new sub-series of Urbana Poetry Slam) is coordinating showcase events periodically throughout the year highlighting touring poet-teams and the next is rapidly approaching: Tuesday, May 15. Featured poets are Genevieve Van Cleve (http://www.myspace.com/genvc) and Susan B. Anthony-Sommers Willet (http://www.susansw.com/about.htm).

The event starts at 7pm and goes until 9:30pm.

Akua
Cristin O’Keefe Aptowicz http://www.aptowicz.com

Mahogany Browne http://www.myspace.com/mahoganylbrowne

Erica Fabri http://www.myspace.com/ericamiriam
Falu http://www.myspace.com/iamfalu

Shanelle Gabriel http://www.myspace.com/shanelleg

Nicole Homer http://www.myspace.com/travelerpoet

Karen Ladson http://www.myspace.com/kickasphalt

Caitlin Meissner http://www.myspace.com/caitlinmeissnerpoetry

Aja Monet http://www.myspace.com/madamemonet

Sonia Mukherji http://www.myspace.com/sonia_mukherji

Amanda Nazario http://www.myspace.com/56473183

Piper Jane Project http://www.myspace.com/piperjaneproject

Jessi Robertson http://www.myspace.com/jessirobertson

Jeanann Verlee http://www.myspace.com/jeaverlee

Leticia Viloria http://www.myspace.com/myviloria

Genevieve Van Cleve http://www.myspace.com/genvc

Susan B. Anthony-Sommers Willett http://www.susansw.com

Liberty Heights Tap Room, May 12th 8pm

2007-05-12T12:31:00.000-04:00

Jessi will perform a solo show at Liberty Heights Tap Room in Brooklyn on May 12th, at 8pm.

Baggot Inn: Sunday May 6th - 11pm

2007-05-06T10:51:00.000-04:00

Jessi will be playing solo at the on Sunday May 6th at 11pm. It's a great line-up and it's free! So come at 8pm to catch these amazing acts:

8pm - Joe Wilson
9pm - Christopher Bernhard
10pm - Sami Akbari
11pm - Jessi of Asher, are you drawing pretty things?

Sunday May 6th
The Baggot Inn
82 W. 3rd St btw Sullivan and Thompson
New York, NY 10012

Flickr: 2007-04-23 Rockwood Music Hall

2007-05-03T10:47:00.001-04:00

Jessi and Greg

There are new photos up at www.flickr.com/photos/drawingprettythings/ from the latest Asher, are you drawing pretty things? full band show at Rockwood Music Hall on April 23, 2007 in New York City. All photos by Larry Hyland.

Categories: Music, Media, Photos, Flickr, AsherAreYou, DrawingPrettyThings, Live, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr, Greg, Tuohey, Shawn, Setaro, Crash, Andy, Mac, Tanya, Buziak, Rockwood, Hall

WMD (Remix) on MySpace

2007-05-01T16:43:00.000-04:00

I have remixed my song "Weapons of Mass Destruction" and it can be streamed at www.myspace.com/jessirobertson under the title "WMD (Remix)".

My idea was to take a long vocal section at the end of the original song and see if I could make a whole new song out of it. There are very few lyrics:

"I'm not crowning any kings anymore. I'm not taking any prisoners anymore. I wasn't made for anyone else, so I will unmake myself."

So this is what I do when I'm alone in my room for a few days. Hopefully you will enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed making it.

Categories: Music, Media, MySpace, Streams, Song, WMDRemix, Jessi, Robertson, Lehr

Review - David Shane Smith: love songs and wintertower

2007-05-01T15:56:00.000-04:00

From the Urban Folk May 2007 Issue:

I have two David Shane Smith albums. Both came in origami slipcovers made from old magazine pages. “love songs” is written in red pencil on the first disc. The second reads “wintertower.”

If you asked me to pick one to keep and one to give up, I’d have a hard time choosing. Many musicians follow a slow evolution from one album to the next, but these two are different.

“love songs” has a timeless quality that makes it difficult to pin down. Each song has a striking sense of immediacy, but remains unbranded by a specific period or style. Lilting melodies contrast sharply with haunting narration. Insomniac poems are punctuated with acoustic guitar, bells, and timpani.

Smith does an about-face on “wintertower,” a slippery electronic hybrid of looped beats and manipulated sounds, where the territory between rap and spoken word becomes too tangled to navigate.

This is a risky venture for someone perceived as a singer/songwriter. Smith embraces it and delivers an absorbing work. On “love songs” most of the vocals were fragile and restrained while “wintertower” teems with rumbles, drones, and squalls.

Each disc holds nine songs. I listen to track seven on “wintertower” which shares the album’s name, a stormy collage of electric guitar and manufactured sounds. Then I skip back to “love songs” and listen to track seven, “in your night,” a dark lullaby punctuated with barely audible whispers. You can get your hands on both at www.myspace.com/davidshanesmith.

Categories: Media, Music, Reviews, David, Shane, Smith, Love, Songs, Wintertower, UrbanFolk

Review - Sami Akbari: Someone Else's Stranger

2007-04-27T14:27:00.000-04:00

Sami Akbari’s upcoming debut album “Somebody Else’s Stranger” is a shimmering alt-pop coup. A complex palette of sounds creates the perfect backdrop to showcase her smooth, sultry vocals. These well-crafted, lovingly produced songs successfully bridge several genres, and I predict cross-over potential. The official release party is May 19^th at Crash Mansion in New York City.

Categories: Music, Reviews, Sami, Akbari, CD

Park Slope and Greenpoint Favorites

2007-04-27T14:06:00.000-04:00

Best Thai Food: Amarin Cafe in Greenpoint, Beet in Park Slope
Watch out! At Amarin, medium spicy equates to my eyes are tearing and I need to clear my throat. The food is fresh and spicy and absolutely delicious. The ambiance is a little lacking. Take out is the way to go. Beet is beautiful inside. The food is reasonably priced and tasty. I suggest eating in or pick-up because delivery can take up to an hour.

Best Bars: Bar4 in Park Slope, Matchless in Greenpoint
It's a tie between my two favorite Brooklyn neighborhoods. Bar4 is a cozy place to hear live music and features paintings and photography by local artists. Matchless is a sports bar turned music venue with a great selection of beers on tap. The sound in the main music room is crystal clear. Right next to lovely McCarren Park.

Best Sushi: Kiku in Park Slope
The edamame is always tender and piping hot. Definitely try the Red Dragon roll. Take out only.

Best Walk: Past the beautiful brownstones between 6th and 11th in Park Slope
Now is the perfect time while all the trees are flowering. Evening and gas lights and drifting petals. Exquisite. Of course, Prospect Park and the Botanical Gardens are lovely as well.

Categories: Neighborhood, Brooklyn, ParkSlope, Greenpoint, Reviews, BestOf, Food, Bars, Sushi, Walks

Rockwood Music Hall: April 23rd, 10:30pm

2007-04-23T16:55:00.000-04:00

Asher, are you drawing pretty things?

performs tonight with special guests
Crash
Shawn Setaro
Tanya Buziak

at Rockwood Music Hall
www.rockwoodmusichall.com
11:30pm
21+

1 drink minimum

Drawing Pretty Things

The Recording Project: Week Four

Jessi, Joe Wilson, & Matt Singer at the American Folk Art Museum

Jessi, Tanya, and No Lindsay at Bar4 December 14th, 8pm!

Friday November 9th: Jessi's Bday Party at Bar4

The Damaged Part on Underground 40 IAC Chart

Friday October 19th: Electro Acoustic Residency at Bar4

Wednesday Oct. 10th: Jessi at 68 Jay St. Bar in DUMBO!

Resources are moving to their own blog

Buy mini-albums from MyStore

Video: Jessi performing Ghost Story at Matchless

Video: Jessi performing Losing Someone at Matchless

Video: Jessi performing Lipstick at Matchless

Video: Jessi performing Communion at Matchless

Video: Jessi singing back-up with Joe Wilson on Seattle

Video: Jessi singing back-up with Joe Wilson on Even the Flux Capacitor Can't Save Us Now (spelling?)

Video: Jessi performing Losing Someone at Matchless

September Concert: Together we fill the skies with music

The Ultimate Link List: Jessi's Bookmarks

Blogs

Tagging

Hacks and Templates

RSS Feeds

Widgets

Web Design Tools

Fonts

HTML

CSS

CSS - How To...

PHP

Color Schemes

Music Players

Image Management

Photo Sharing Sites

Photos & Images

Printing

Slideshows

Online Albums

Photoshop

Miscellaneous

Online File Storage

Website Templates

Music Resources

NYC Venues

Digital and Online Sales

Licensing

Promotion and PR

Polls

Tools and Widgets

Social Networking

Band Tour Trackers

Band Profiles

Collaborations

MySpace Hacks & Gens

Music Videos

Video (General)

Mashups, Mixes, Splicing

Share Music Recommendations and Tastes

Social Networking Tools

Events and Calendars

Charts

Reference and Advice

Loops and Samples

Video: Eggshell Heart at Rockwood Music Hall

Jessi Live: Saturday August 18 @ Matchless

August 5th, Midnight: Jessi solo at Rockwood Music Hall

LC Music Festival: Day Four Recap

ANOTHER HumbleVoice feature: VIDEO!

LC Music Festival: Day Three Recap

LC Music Festival: Day Two Recap

LC Music Festival: Day One Recap

Humble Voice: More on Jessi's feature

Jessi: Featured Artist on HumbleVoice

Jessi's in Indie Sounds NY

1st Annual LC Music Festival this week at Bar4!

Podcasts: MixPosure

Podcast: Stereo Graffiti

Podcast: House of Kommons

New Song: I Want to Want Something

Blog Launch