Concert Review: Laila Biali Aims To Right The World’s Wrongs With Jazz
I swear certain artists are kismet. They enter our domain to elaborate an aspect we are either ignoring in attention or gnawing at in tension. When I first heard of Laila Bali, it was as the “subversive” jazz artist; using music to reflect upon racial, class, and, ultimately, social issues. Yet, when Laila Biali took the Rockwood stage she showed that being subversive is not a riotous act; it is a jazzy one.
Sometimes, when we think of rebels, we envision violence and loudness. Yet, if MLK Day shows us anything, it is that the most rebellious thing you could do is be in and promote peace. Laila does exactly that. She plays as if no one is in the room, which makes you feel as if everyone is present. She closes her eyes and smokes her vocals like a lyric was a cigar; meant to be puffed into the air. Her voice is warm, and practically cuddles your ears as she lays into truths you otherwise would not want to hear. Yet, they are veiled under verses and instrumentals that show love is what is needed, but separation is what is taking place.
Laila Biali – Got to Love
Now more than ever Laila Biali seems relevant. Playing tracks off her upcoming, self-titled album, Laila’s songs showed her voice may feel as rich and as grounded as the earth, but her heartfelt lyrics belong to the sky. “Refugee”, “Got To Love”, and “Satellite” showed that Laila believes Heaven is possible on earth because in the same way we give ourselves hell we can also give ourselves healing. With catchy hooks and sweet melodies, she elaborates this beautiful notion by playing with its authenticity more than its positivity. For her, the light of this world is as real as its darkness, which is why she has chosen to invest in a lighter reality, and, trust, the woman is informed. From gentrification to personal stresses, Laila is aware of the world’s darker shades, which is why she makes her jazz sonically float above them.
Laila Biali – Love
It is not easy to sell positivity because, often, it feels too high in cost. Most of us approach life for its negativity, and expect its wrongness before its righteousness. Yet, what makes Laila Biali such a fascinating performer is that she acknowledges the bad and good of this world with equal regard, but chooses how the bad can only make the good more important. It is a smart move that she presents with talent, elegance, and undeniable friendliness. She proves knowing what is wrong with the world is only valuable when you are seeking to how to make it right. For More Information Laila Biali Click Here.
