Concert Review: BRIC! Celebrate Brooklyn Festival Is Where You Should Be
I am finding it hard to describe the awesomeness and the laxness of BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn. So I will do so with a story. As I walked into the beautifully lush Prospect Park Bandshell, the clear blue sky blazing, babies running, and people readying to witness some of the best jazz, R &B musicians you can find in the world, I ran into friends I had not seen in years. Like a Mecca, BRIC! attracts people, not only from all walks of life but also yours.
Alice Smith – Be Easy
As I entered and saw an old, college mate, I was shocked. Then, to see a group of familiar faces who knew me at my college best and “hungover”, I felt moved by the bright day to be with friends amongst exceptional music that is for FREE. I always elaborate the “free” aspect, not just because I am cheap, but too often in this world we are told that if you cannot afford luxury then you, simply, cannot have it. Yet, we all desire the “finer” things in life, and I do not believe what you can afford is a testament to what you deserve. Thus, the night’s line-up of Alice Smith, Bilal, and Kris Bowers was like receiving a million dollar ticket with no charge. Someone kind just gave you a pass so that you could experience what everyone should experience: fun. Being with a group of friends, definitely, added to the vibe. Sitting there, chatting with them in between acts, and grabbing a beer and fries from The Farm On Adderley, it was hard not to feel peaceful, especially peaceful enough to be happy. Honestly, how could you stress listening to the way Kris Bowers’ piano riffs met the gorgeous daylight. Bilal was the same in giving an easy sensibility and smooth vocals that brushed along the crowd like the light wind of the day. Of course, you cannot go wrong with Alice Smith’s rich, authenticity of her soulful voice.
One thing that connected this event to the Lake Street Dive concert, was how calm it was. Although the music could make you sway and yelp in joy, overall, the atmosphere, simply put, was “chill”. From those that picnicked in the back to those that grabbed a seat, everyone gathered with the ones they loved and liked, and even chatted with someone new because it is hard not to feel friendly under the crisp greenery of Prospect Park Thus, in essence, BRIC! Celebrate Brooklyn Festival took another step in proving GENUINE good times are for all, so I highly recommend you grab some buddies and GO! Click Here For More Information On BRIC! Celebrate Brooklyn Festival.
Bilal – Pleasure Toy ft. Big K.R.I.T.
