Chastity Brown at the 100 Club

Rejecting the generic formula employed by most artists, American singer-songwriter Chastity Brown uses the medium of music to go against the social norm and deliver organic material that only a true artist can produce. With four albums under her belt, Chastity draws inspiration from the raw energy of the “road”, and brings her A game to the underground 100 Club.

Taking the unorthodox approach to channelling musical energy, she creates a layered set that combines blues-folk riffs with comedic breaks, where she tells a story to the audience. This fusion of music and comedy is unique, and a signature Chastity move. Her confidence draws the audience under her unusual musical spell, and it is clear that they see the gig as a full-fledged concert, with fans dancing, jumping, laughing, or shouting: “We love you!” The enthusiasm is contagious and radiates a warm, fuzzy energy within each of the audience members.

Deftly alternating between percussion and raw vocals, Chastity delivers a set that demonstrates she is a seasoned professional. The blur between the modern and the traditional is heightened as the electric and acoustic guitars effortlessly merge to help create her distinctive sound. Even the musical arrangement of each song rebels against conformity: in How Can I Forget, she borrows jazz soul, layers it over a rustic-tinged composition, and accompanies it with a delicate bass rhythm. The hauntingly melodic Lost, meanwhile, loses all sense of direction, as she wanders through an asylum of her own making. Without a doubt, Lost is the standout track, with only the gentle lull of the piano defining the raw emotion that she felt when making it. Disconcerting but powerful, it is about recapturing her love for music, and the vulnerable enunciation of each note sends shivers down our spines.

There is a wonderful connection between Chastity and her band mates, who laugh and joke between sets. The affinity between them is remarkable: there are no cat-fights here, only a simple connection between friends that captures the true essence of making music. With that said, there are a few technical difficulties, but that only draws the singer closer to our hearts, as she lays her flaws on the table. She is upfront, honest and charming, and the audience loves every second of her set. The ability to alternate between singer and entertainer is an ability that only the greats can achieve, and Chastity is halfway there.

Ana De-Jesus
Photos: Andrei Grosu 

For further information about Chastity Brown and future events visit here.

Watch the video for Colorado here: