Power and vulnerability, alt-rock and roots/americana. Afro-American singer-songwriter Amythyst Kiah shares these extraordinary combinations with us on her solo debut. The album title Wary + Strange reflects the fact that she has long felt cautious and strange growing up in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It wasn't easy being black, female, androgynous and lesbian. Even while studying bluegrass music, she
… often felt like "the other". However, by hiding herself she became depressed. She decided to break free from restrictions and to accept and embrace herself as she was. After being part of the band Our Native Daughters, she made this solo album with producer Tony Berg. In her lyrics and powerful, emotional music she lays her soul bare. She also sang the proud song Black Myself with Our Native Daughters, but now it sounds like a raw, electrifying version. Wild Turkey, about the suicide of her alcoholic mother, is very moving. Kiah has a huge voice and an impressive personality. (SvdP)more
