SOFAR SOUNDS NEW HAVEN

Sofar (Songs from a Room) Sounds is a global music community started in 2009 in London and currently entrenched in 385 cities around the world. The premise is simple. Showcase established and upcoming talent in secret settings with a select group of guests for an intimate musical experience. It can be a living room or a small industrial space. The audience is small and the artist is up close and personal. If you can score a ticket you are informed of the clandestine location the night before and the artist(s) is(are) revealed the night of the show.

I had the privilege of attending the Sofar Sounds New Haven’s October event this past weekend. The setting was ideal. The host’s small backyard was a perfect venue for the 50 or so invited attendees. The weather was made to order. Cool enough for hoodies and warm enough to enjoy the fresh air. There was a small fire lit in front of the performance space and with the crowd sitting on blankets and lawn chairs there definitely was a campout feel.

Paul, one of the Sofar volunteers, opened the show with awesome Marley song and then introduced the first act. Her name was Mooncha and with her slightly out of tune guitar performed a series of originals. She rapped and sang with her organic guitar. Her songs were fine but her connection with the audience was great. She brought up a guest rapper and their tune meshed an original rap with Mooncha’s subtle guitar.

The second act was Emani (pictured). A beautiful young lady with a personality and smile that was amazing. She sang a short set of originals that perfectly highlighted her soulful R&B voice. She had this Sofar crowd in the palm of her hands. Emani will be a force to reckoned with in the near future.

The evening was a huge success and a really fun adventure. If any music lover has any sense of intrigue and mystery Sofar is the answer. Looking forward to another Sofar evening.

Just as an aside, Joel, the evening’s host not only supplied the space but also fed everyone with mouth watering pork, chili, and other sides. The guy deserves major kudos.

If you are interested in attending a future Sofar New Haven event just check out their website.

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