Combining the bitchiness of Liz Phair, the vulnerability of Jewel and the independence of Alanis Morissette, Naomi constructs songs of survival, individualism, and self-reliance on her debut self titled EP.
Naomi grew up enthralled by the poetry of James Langston Hughes and her songs evident of her admiration of this revolutionary black poet. The New York City singer/songwriter in-your-face approach hasn’t gone unnoticed as her experimentation with both organic and electronic sounds lead her to work with the likes of writer/producer Mike Daly, formally of Whiskeytown. In addition, Naomi’s music was recently licensed to MTV for the upcoming season of Road Rules and is currently in collaboration with Steven Trask of Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
Produced by the legendary Phil Ramone, Naomi’s first outing is, for the most part, a declaration of freedom, self-reliance, and a screw you attitude with regard to surviving abusive or doomed relationships. Copping an electronic hip-hop methodology with an intense rock edge, the disc opens with ‘Get Up’. ‘Here’ is a poignant love song which seems slightly out of place with the tone of the rest of the record at first listen; however after a couple of plays it grows on you as it becomes apparent just how versatile this artist is. Naomi successfully combines soft acoustic guitar with synthesized Kraftwork-like beats on several tracks such as ‘Hollow’. Tweaking her vocals on the indomitable tracks ‘Stand’ and ‘Undone’ illustrates an undeniable admiration for Fiona Apple as well as PJ Harvey.
Naomi has developed into one of NYC’s proliferate rock personalities without surprise. Her gutsy vocals coupled with a “give a shit” disposition will surely catapult this artist to the pinnacle of the music scene far beyond New York. Stay tuned.