Music Blog

Siren Nation is really a powerhouse organization for the arts in Portland—committed to promoting women in all aspects of the arts, the Siren Nation Festival is a yearly event that puts on free workshops, a concert series and an art show to showcase the work of women artists from all different walks of life. 

Alela Diane is one such woman, who stood stoically onstage, accompanied solely by her own voice and her acoustic guitar. Sitting in the dim red light of the Alberta Rose Theater, I felt myself swept up in the collective emotion of the audience around me. It was as though everyone was sighing in unison in the wake of Diane's candid smiles, her openness and her vulnerability. 

Photo By Beth Olson Creative

Diane's presence filled the concert hall, and her solitary figure was a monolith of strength that united each of the listeners, as we sat riveted to our seats by her performance.

Her most recent album, Alela Diane & Wild Divine, was a collaborative effort with a great band that joined us in studio not too long ago. Check out that session here. 

The Siren Nation Film Festival began yesterday at the Clinton Street Theater. Check out the full listings and showtimes-- they'll be screening films all weekend long. 

Tagged: live review