I cold called graphic designer and art director Susi Cruz of Cruz Creative Studio last year in my professional meandering for research purposes. Our creative discussions eventually turned to the local music scene and I learned that Susi and Jessica Hernandez (of Jessica Hernandez & The Deltas) are relatives. Detroit can be a very small city when you are curious and friendly.
If you keep your ear to the ground people talk up their favorite local acts. Jessica Hernandez & The Deltas (Blue Note Records) is one of those grapevine bands also in the national spotlight and currently on tour across the states. In late March the band performed at St. Andrews Hall with The Mexican Knives and James Linck to a loyal and diverse crowd. I attended the show as a spectator having heard "Young, Drunk and Dumb" which is a thoughtful and melodic tune showcasing Ms. Hernandez's distinctive voice and keen intelligence. A petite even tempered and unassuming Latin beauty Jessica is also known for her hip and eclectic personal style. When she walks onto a stage you know she has a unique point of view. At this show a horn section performed with Jessica Hernandez & The Deltas and can be heard on their "Caught Up" single featured in this neat promotional clip by Mathew Franklin.
Midway through the concert I moved to the back of the hall to take in the crowd and bumped into James Linck who I quickly began to interrogate FBI style. He's a slightly shy dude but friendly and hugely gifted. Opposites is a sweet and clever favorite of mine. You can listen to it on his Soundcloud profile.
I love live music and enjoyed the whole line up including the stilt-walkers via (The Detroit Circus). Congratulations, Jessica Hernandez & The Deltas, The Mexican Knives and James Linck the evening was well worth the price of admission.
A mini production of the concert can be seen here on Vimeo. Check their tour dates for details on the next Detroit show. I'd love to hear your thoughts if you attended the show or have a favorite record from any of the bands.
I need to thank Ali Saloum for the photos in this post, a gentleman and Detroit creative at work and play.