Photos/Writer: Rudy Lu

Meshell Ngeocello (BlueNote) has been active as a solo artist since 1993 and is considered one of the pioneers of the neo soul movement. Her music actually defies characterization. It is a hybrid of pan african, electronic, soul,reggae, hiphop, gospel, abstract jazz and indie rock.

Her latest project is “NO MORE WATER: The Gospel of James Baldwin”. Readings from James Baldwin’s: The Fire Next Time were mixed with her poetry, the performance was an abstract pastiche, which is a mixture of stream of consciousness meditation/rage of a gay black woman artist derived from all her experiences both spiritual and political. Music from her previous album, The Omnichord Real Book was also performed.

Meshell frequently read from the book that was displayed prominently by her side as well as playing her electric bass. Her band helped express the meaning of the work. The power of the singing, the roar of the synthesizers and instruments lent power to the performance. Band members Jake Sherman and Abe Rounds opened with a few songs from their own project.

Gallery: