::RECAP:: Bilal Is Back

::RECAP:: Bilal Is Back
Post by Gypsy
Photos by Nocturnal Charm, Edith Williams and Leo Wilson 

Photo: Nocturnal Charm

On the verge of releasing his fourth album A Love Surreal, Bilal Oliver, performed at the Baltimore Soundstage to give fans a preview of what to expect on February 26th when the album arrives. 

Over the years and this go round in particular, Gypsy Soul has been provided access to Bilal and through SoulcialGrindPR has worked with him to secure media and always the result is the same...A GREAT TIME!  Bilal is funny and laid back, deep and thoughtful, humble and real -sometimes these qualities can be hard for fans to see from the stage. When on that platform in the blazing lights surrounded by instruments hes energetic and emotional as he gives himself to each song, interactive, and brilliant. 

 

What does change is the music. Bilal's genius and conscious undertaking of staying empty of ego and his deliberate will to avoid "falling in love with my own shit" allows him to creatively expand. We, the fans, are witness. From 1st Born Second to now  A Love Surreal the evolution of lyrical depth and increased creativity from piano led tracks to guitar centered pieces are evidence. 

Photo: Leo Wilson

My favorite song he previewed from the new album was "Climbing"! Slow, sultry, with a story line you can imagine as you close your eyes and sip some sweet wine in the evening on the couch. Other songs Im anticipating playing in my car are "Longing and Waiting", "Slipping Away", and "Butterfly" featuring 2013 GRAMMY Award winner Robert Glasper, which of course has a very piano focused underlay, but the depth is considerably more layered. 

 

 Photo: Nocturnal Charm 

If anyone ever doubted Bilal's influence in Baltimore, the packed house, fan fare, and extensive knowledge of his catalog by the audience would clear any questions.
 

Photo: Edith Williams

Bilal is back and better than ever. Make sure to pre-order A Love Surreal on Itunes and follow Bilal at @bilal and www.facebook.com/OfficialBilalPage

Thank you to Bilal and him team for once again allowing SoulcialGrindPR to  handle media for their Baltimore show.

To view more photos from the evening please click HERE.

Photo: Nocturnal Charm