Detroit-based artist performs for CoffeeHouse Music series, original songs
Detroit musician ISLA performs in UC Rotunda, holds by CMU Program Board, Nov 14.
As the sound of a guitar strumming began to fill the room, the crowd in the Bovee University Center Rotunda fell silent.
Singer-songwriter ISLA began her set by singing “Daylight Savings,” cooing the dark lyrics into the small microphone.
“Now that it’s dark out, I have no idea what time it is. It’s only when it’s dark out, I start to lose my will to live,” she sang.
The CoffeeHouse Music series is held by Program Board throughout the semester. They brought the Detroit=based artists, ISLA, to perform Monday night in an intimate, acoustic setting for free.
“I hope you’re all doing alright, despite the events of last week,” Isla said. “This next one is a new one called ‘Life in a Dog Cage,’ which I think might be relevant. Not to get too political.”
The song was an upbeat tune about feeling trapped and being in trouble. With about 30 students in attendance, the performance was mellow and laid-back. There was free donuts, coffee, and cider offered to attendees.
The setup was simple — just ISLA, her producer Daniel Monk, a keyboard and two guitars.
ISLA describes her sound as “dreamy jazz pop.”. She draws influence from pop, folk, and soul music.
She also performed a handful of covers, from Led Zeppelin to blues musician Little Walter.
After seeing the event advertised on Facebook and around campus, Jackson sophomore Jaymie Sorenson decided to watch Isla perform.
“I enjoyed it, I thought it was cool, mellow music,” she said.
