Observe the sounds of folk artists

Music can be an expression of an artist’s inner emotions; their songs can allow audiences to experience their personality, vulnerabilities and outright love for music.   

On Thursday, Pieta Brown & The Taken with Erik Koskinen performed at the EJ Halling Recital Hall in the Earley Center for Performing Arts. 

The two unique artists perform music closely related to the blues and folk genres. However, Brown doesn’t feel the need to label her creations. 

“I’ve never been good with genres,” said Brown. “I feel like genres are often limiting, so I don’t pay too much attention to them.” 

Koskinen describes his music as a blend of different sounds that come together to create one interesting genre. He admires authentic blues and folk music, which originated in the late 1800s by poor musicians.   

“I perform American roots music,” said Koskinen. “Music evolves constantly, but poor people put together the sources of the most interesting music. So, I would say I perform a mix of blues, folk, jazz, mountain music, and music of the American Islands, like Jamaica.” 

Songs are created because of an inspiring moment in an artist’s life or simply because they enjoy the rush of the creative process. 

“The creative process is the addictive part for me,” said Koskinen. “Even after a song is recorded, I keep revising and manipulating it to keep the old from becoming boring.” 

Brown, the daughter of Grammy-nominated folk musician Greg Brown, draws inspiration from growing up in a house of bohemian artists.  

“I grew up around a lot of musicians and artists, so for me, music feels very natural…like breathing,” said Brown. “Music continues to be a lifeline.” 

Music allows songwriters to unleash their thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, it brings them inner peace. 

“Music is such an endless and open place for expression. I turn to it so often,” said Brown. 

Koskinen has an eccentric response as to how he expresses himself through the songs he creates. 

“I feel it’s much easier to express myself behind a guitar than, say, a poet, comedian or politician who stands naked in front of judgment,” said Koskinen.     

Brown and Koskinen find performing in front of an audience gives them energy and a sense of peace. It is exciting for them to see people being drawn into their craft. 

“I always love it when the audience feels like one big collective energy. Then we as musicians can connect in, unify, and be a part of the collective too,” said Brown. “Music has never been about ‘performance’ for me. It’s more like a quest.” 

“When the chemistry between the audience and the music lines up, it’s zen-like,” said Koskinen. “It doesn’t happen often, but it’s addictive to me. So the search for that experience is a constant goal.” 

Listen to Pieta Brown and Erik Koskinen’s music on iTunes, Spotify, or YouTube.   

Photo Caption: On Thursday, Pieta Brown & The Taken with Erik Koskinen performed at the EJ Halling Recital Hall of the Earley Center for Performing Arts. (Alexis Darkow/The Reporter) 

Write to Tina Dolan at dolatinaj@gmail.com