Two years after announcing a name change, the women’s arts festival Estrojam has finally dropped that regrettable handle in favor of something less egregious but still silly: Decibelle Music and Culture Festival. Along with the rebranding comes to decision to allow male-fronted bands to participate for the first time. In a press release festival director Khyentse James says, “We are still 100% committed to women artists, and when we encounter a male-fronted band that supports our mission and our artistic aesthetic, they can be considered for the festival.”
The sixth edition of the event will take place between September 23 and 27 at various venues around town, and from the list of musical performers already announced it looks to be the least remarkable installment yet. The marquee name is electroclash star Miss Kittin, touring the States for the first time in five years. Other announced acts include Brilliant Pebbles, Jasper James, writer Michelle Tea, FM Supreme, Mz. Jonz, Mama Cutsworth, Mizz Brown, Chach, and Plushgun. For more info check out the festival Web site decibelle.org.
Today’s playlist:
Murray Perahia, Bach Partitas 2, 3 & 4 (Sony Classical)
Matt Renzi, The Cave (Fresh Sound New Talent)
Gwigwi Mrwebi, Mbaqanga Songs (Honest Jons)
Stina Nordenstam, And She Closed Her Eyes (East West)
Shirley & Dolly Collins, Snapshots (Fledg’ling)