Background
A sixth-generation San Francisco native, award winning singer-songwriter essence has been immersed in art and music since childhood. And yes, her birth name really is ‘essence’ – she was raised by quintessential flower children, her parents being two free spirited bohemian artists from the Haight-Ashbury ‘Summer of Love.’ Black Wings is her 2nd album.

Strengths
When words and music twist and turn into each other with vibrant synergy like the songs on Black Wings do, then mind, heart and soul are satisfied and fulfilled. essence herself is quoted in the press release – “Music is life force – and tapping into that energy makes me feel completely alive.” – and the music bears this out. Her recent backstory has been traumatic but the results – raw soulful songwriting that draws from the deep well of country-folk and pop-rock – might well be worth all the pain and suffering. Isn’t that what art is all about?

Highlights
“A Thousand Pieces”, “Black Wings”, “Bullshit”.

Sounds Like
Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, Chrissie Hynde, Tom Petty.

Bottom Line
Visceral and heartfelt, essence digs into the dark soul of country-folk to deliver an emotional tour-de-force.

Information
Official Site: http://www.essencemusic.com/site/

Check out the new music video “Honeyed Out”.

Black Wings will be released on 29th July.