::RECAP:: HOLLIE COOK, ALICE RUSSELL AND YUNA ROCK WASHINGTON, DC

::RECAP:: HOLLIE COOK, ALICE RUSSELL AND YUNA ROCK WASHINGTON, DC
by Daniel Harris

In the midst of a hectic Friday afternoon, three talented women prepared for what would turn out to be one of the most amazing nights of music. While many rushed to put the busy Washington, DC atmosphere behind them (for a couple days, at least) Hollie Cook, Alice Russell and Yuna were all setting up to give concert goers a very memorable evening.

The Lisner Auditorium, located on the campus of The George Washington University, was a great oasis in the middle of a problematic Washington, DC evening rush hour. As the start of the concert got closer, the lobby began to fill with fans of the performers and people looking for a good way to start their weekend.

The auditorium doors opened, the people filed in, took their seats and shortly after, Hollie Cook took the stage. The self proclaimed "tropical soul" artist successfully blends pop with classic reggae to create a very unique and intoxicating sound. During her performance of hits like "Tiger Balm," "Milk and Honey" and "Postman," it was difficult not to sway back and forth to this one of a kind blend. Perhaps one of the most memorable aspects of Cook's performance was watching as her own music took her away to a heady and sensuous trance. Hollie Cook was a wonderful start for this amazing night of music.

Just before the end of a brief intermission to set up for the Alice Russell, a fellow concert goer leaned over and whispered to her friend, "You're going to LOVE Alice!" As the lights dimmed once more and people returned to their seats, Alice and her four piece band took the stage. How could anyone NOT love Alice? She is such a powerhouse! Her strong vocal abilities and her deep soulful lyrics are matched only by her strong desire to connect with her audience. Her performance of "To Dust," "Heartbreaker," "I Loved You" and "Hard and Strong" all seemed to be amplified and charged as she fed off the crowd's energy.

During the evening's final intermission, I was asked, "Have you heard of this next artist?" "Yes" I replied, "She is amazing!" As the lights dimmed for the final time, Yuna graced the stage and showed my neighbor that I was not merely speaking in general terms or sharing a cliché sentiment. Yuna is actually amazing. The way she blends the "pop" music sound with her thought provoking and complex lyrics is sheer genius. Her sweet, whimsical personality kept those new to her artistry very well engaged and intrigued. Those of us familiar with Yuna, cheered and danced in our seats when she went into favorites like "Lullabies," "Lights And Camera" and "Decorate." An interesting transition into the performance of"Decorate", saw Yuna taking a brief moment to explain the origins of this song. She used the experience of a good friend and his" on again, off again" relationship as her muse to create a sad and oddly beautiful song.

The evening's final performance capped off a truly unforgettable evening with three talented artists.

Our special thanks to Ashley Di Buduo for providing us with access!