Gabriella Cohen’s debut album is one of my favorites of the year. I’ve been sharing it incessantly with friends and music colleagues alike because its so familiar, strange, and accessible at the same time. Her music is a blast from the past with all the imagination of the future. Its dark shadows are illuminated in flashes of texture and colors of fuzzy instrumentation and sultry harmonies in such a way that feels fresh and rejuvenating. Toying with the structural confines of pop, Gabriella makes startlingly enchanting tunes that hold true to a certain saucy temperament. The combination of her intoxicating voice and the unhurried pace of her songwriting is at the core of what makes her so striking as an artist.
Gabriella made it across to the states earlier this month for a few shows and I couldn’t resist heading up to New York to catch her stop at Mercury Lounge. And boy, was I glad I did. Accompanied by her pal Kate “Babyshakes” Dillon on vocals and guitar (who puts out her own fantastic music as Full Flower Moon Band) and new friends Johnny and Joey, Gabriella showcased her epically spiraling tunes with all the woozy grace I had hoped she would. She also took some pictures for us on a disposable camera as she traveled around New York that include a few disgruntled close-ups, sunset, and her stellar coat. To pair with her little photo diary, she made us a 20-song soundtrack of mostly old and a few choice new tracks that all have a mesmerizing sway. Look above and listen below for a peek into a day on tour with Gabriella.
