"If you're a racist, get out. If you're homophobic, get out. If you're transphobic, you can now get the f*ck out."

And with those essential orders of business tended to, the night began. Sultana welcomed everyone together for the evening and established the venue as a safe space, sharing her personal journey of self, identity, presentation and the anxiety that has followed her through the years. Acknowledging how extremely daunting and debilitating it can be, she offered perspective and hope:

"Know that it's all in here," she said placing her palms to the sides of her head. "It's not out there," she continued, panning her hands out in front of her, horizontally. "The world is a beautiful place. Well, not all of it right now, but lots of it. So get up, get out and move around the world. Don't sit on your couch. Get out and move. And know that it will be okay...if you put in the work. You put in the work, and it will be okay." The crowd cheered in thanks for sharing personal insights on a topic that's shunned by society as taboo.

With that, the music began and the awe ensued with her live layering, dexterity and groove. One soul on stage; seven instruments in rotation including both acoustic and electric guitars, a trumpet, pan flute, mandolin, synths, an electronic beat maker and kick drum. At least, those were the ones I could identify. She shredded the guitars, soloing like a wondrous madman, swayed through the mellow beats and danced across her shrine with joyous, crafty footwork. To note, there was a literal shrine set behind her - a speaker draped in a tapestry with Himalayan salt lamps, a skull, cross, incense and light strands set atop.

It was a pleasure to watch this sonic visionary bring it all together in real time, and to hear her expand upon the recorded versions.

Here's a clip of "Jungle" from the show:

If you are afforded the opportunity to see this one live, I highly recommend it. She'll feed your soul in song and smile.

xxChris

Header Image by Wicked Childd