Two new great artist that I discovered as part of the NXNE Music, Film & Interactive Festival here in Toronto at the C’est What Music Bar & Lounge were, Nuela Charles and Chloe Charles (no relation.) Not only was the venue were they performed a great space, but as I’ve mentioned in a previous post the likes of Feist and Barenaked Ladies have had sessions there as well. Both Charles’ bring to the table, exceptional lyrics and an authentic perspective from their music… see review below.
Album “A Different Kind Of Fire”
NUELA CHARLES is a Canadian, Swiss and Kenyan born singer-songwriter whose soul infused music, vocal range and depth can be compared to the likes of Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Corrine Bailey Rae. Armed with an acoustic guitar and without the support of her band, Nuela took to the stage with the confidence and ease of a veteran artist. Nuela, smiling, engaged the audience by saying “You will be my family tonight.” Instantly warming and building a relation with the patrons. With Nuela we laughed, clapped and tapped our feet as she introduced and shared each song with us.
There is a strength and quiet confidence that Nuela evokes while strumming on her guitar and vibing to the music. Her voice, effortlessly powerful and controlled is more than arresting, it is enchanting as she navigates the jazz inspired scat with amazing ease.
NUELA’s full-length album “A Different Kind Of Fire” was a nominee for the 2011 Western Canada Music Award in the category of Urban Recording. The single “Circling Numbers” gained Nuela the 2011 Gospel Music Association (GMA) Covenant Award for Urban/R&B/Soul Single of the Year as well as being featured on the TV series Degrassi. In addition to her win, Nuela received two other nominations for Best Female Artist and Best New Artist. Nuela is currently based in Edmonton, Alberta and can be reached on her website HERE!
Album “Little Green Bud”
Another amazing artist from the NXNE Music, Film & Interactive Festival was CHLOE CHARLES whose music is described as Freak Folk/ Country. When I approached the artist I asked her if there was a hint of bluegrass to which she smile and said “That’s a first.” I’m almost certain now that I will be remember as the bluegrass blogger. For me the music was hard to trace at first, but as I listened to her CD I realize I did indeed miss-spoke. Chloe’s music has a nuance of Alanis Morrisette without the sometimes harsh edge Morrisette is known for.
Compared to the likes of Portishead, Bjork and Feist, this type of music and genius is still a rare form and we should all be excited if given the chance to listen to it live. Charle’s voice floats effortlessly above the amazing string performances of her band with a otherworldly transcendence that at times seems to have a deliciously manipulative quality if one does not pay attention to the lyrics.
Chloe Charles is nothing less than engaging as she gives a morsel of history behind each track with witty charismatic banter. Supported by a great strings (her own guitar) violas, violins, and cellos this artist is definitely one to support and keep on your radar. Chloe Charles can be reached on her website HERE!
About Author: Khamal Murray is a major in Bioethics & Heath Studies at the University of Toronto and a blogger/writer with http://thejuxtapositionape.blog.com and a special contributor with Alternavox Magazine
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