Artmusic Likes Ike

As a small gathering filled the home of Don Slepian and his wife Jan Julia, The ArtMusic Coffeehouse in East Stroudsburg, PA presented singer/songwriter Joy Ike on Saturday August 25th. Gentle conversations were shared as those who arrived eagerly awaited the evening’s performance. As the hour arrived, listening and viewing vantage points were converged upon as the music began to play.

As is customary of all concerts held at the Slepian home, Don took his place behind his keyboard, sounded chimes to summon the harmonious spirits, and welcomed the audience in his living room as well as those who were experiencing the concert through their Live Video Webcast. Since a regular camera crew member hadn’t arrived at the home, I was asked to take the position. It was an interesting experience and I appreciated the compliments that were bestowed upon me for my endeavors. I’m hopeful those who viewed the footage enjoyed what they witnessed.

Anyways, an improvised musical introduction was performed by Don and, when it was concluded, Joy Ike took her place behind her own set of keyboards to share her songs. The performance consisted entirely of original work which included a number of newly written pieces along with some (as Ms. Ike put it) “old stuff” written in 2008. Many of those who were considerably older than Ms. Ike were amused by her temporal reference.

The bluesy and funky stylings of Ms. Ike’s work delighted those who heard it as her physical movements accentuated each individual song. It reminded one of performances given by Ray Charles whose body weaved upon his piano bench while he hit each note as if he was avoiding those who sought to strike him back. Or, maybe, he was moving to meet them so their tonal qualities can penetrate his soul so the subsequent notes he played would be inspired to build upon their encounter. There were many times Ms. Ike seemed to be moving her hands and body in order to forcefully elicit sounds not commonly summoned upon the instrument while there were other moments when she deftly hovered her fingers above a key as it’s tone reached up to greet her. In the later case, it became unclear whether she actually lowered her finger to touched the key or not.

Ms. Ike’s weavings and facial gestures struck and caressed each listener as aspects of her life were expressed until those who heard her with their heart found their experiences personified time and time again. The range of emotions moved from profound sorrow to frivolous laughter as is the comprehensive reality of the human experience. Tears and smiles can still be recalled long after Ms. Ike’s performance as they are reflected upon while writing an article about it. You’ll find more photographs taken during the Joy Ike concert in The ArtMusic Coffeehouse 2012 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150717195285421.457027.636000420&type=1&l=f497305bbb.

Joy Ike began writing songs in 2005 with a desire to repair a broken world with her talents. Although she has grown physically tired as a touring musician averaging 130 dates a year, she still creatively asks the questions whose soulful answers can create a new perspective on life. According to her website, Ms. Ike states, “I want my songs to be a conversation…a long one. A real one.” and NPR’s (National Public Radio) program titled, “All Things Considered” said “The depth of subjects she tackles in her poetic lyrics are perfectly complemented by a unique blend of neo-soul, with just the right dash of pop…a truly compelling act to watch in person, with the ability to create an intimate setting in locations big and small.” Her most recent album titled, “Rumors” was released in May 2010. You can learn more about Joy Ike and her work by exploring her Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/joyikemusic.

The ArtMusic Coffeehouse is held in the home of Don Slepian and Jan Julia who reside in the borough of East Stroudsburg, PA as part of the Concerts In Your Home Series. A variety of musical forms are presented including folk, jazz, classical, and electronic music. The ArtMusic Coffeehouse now offers those who have access to the internet an opportunity to experience their concerts online and participate in their chat room.

However, for those who wish to attend a live performance, The ArtMusic Coffeehouse welcomes all who wish to do so. The next concerts scheduled to be held at The ArtMusic Coffeehouse are Rupert Wates on Friday September 14th, Jessica Campbell and Heather Morgan on Sunday September 23rd, and Joe Marson on Sunday October 7th. The concerts begin at 8pm and it’s suggested you call ahead to reserve your seat as the venue’s space is limited. Please Explore The ArtMusic Coffeehouse Website at www.ArtMusicCoffeehouse.com or Call 570-476-6307 for more information on upcoming concerts and to reserve your seats.