Blackoustic, promoted by headliner/producer Vixen Noir as a night of entertainment by black queer performers, made its debut last Saturday night at the Align Gallery, situated in the heart of York Avenue’s small but thriving nightlife in Highland Park.
The event was actually MC’d by LGBT ally “Mastress of Ceremonies” Alexandra Boddie. In addition to Noir and Boddie, performers included singer/songwriter Jurni Rayne and singer/songwriter Jupiter Black (accompanied by Andreas Emmanuel on guitar) from Oakland, now living in Los Angeles. Exceptional talents! A late add to the bill, Mr. Sampson, provided some comedy relief and he was actually pretty hilarious.
Headlining performer, Vixen Noir (accompanied by guitarist Kelvin McKay-Hill), belted out several sexy and powerful tunes (with a few quick costume “alterations” onstage) that would definitely work on a larger theatrical stage as well. All in all, each and every one of these amazing performers delivered non-stop talent that kept the full-house audience totally entertained.
Throughout the night millennials headed to the Hi Hat nightclub or Donut Friend curiously peered through the gallery storefront windows to check out what was going on. There is no doubt that each of these performers deserves to be seen by a wider audience. Vixen Noir hopes to repeat the Blackoustic experience at the Align and other venues in Los Angeles. When this happens, do yourself a favor and check them out…and let’s hope the next Blackoustic happens sooner rather than later.
Updated 4/9: Updated Blackoustic definition to “black queer performers” from “queer black female performers”. Also corrected to reflect Jupiter Black is “now living in Los Angeles”, instead of “Oakland-based”. Also added “(accompanied by Andreas Emmanuel on guitar)”.
Photos by Judy Ornelas Sisneros. All rights reserved.
