On Friday, 17 November, Islington’s Gracepoint will be hosting Ceylan Ertem –Turkey’s answer to Tori Amos. The 36-year-old left-leaning singer-songwriter is known for effortlessly strutting musical genres in songs that address various social issues, from Gezi to the conflict in southeast Turkey, during a career that’s spanned nearly two decades.
A graduate of the Mujdat Gezen Art Academy (not dissimilar to The BRIT School), Ertem has performed with diverse artists and leading musicians in Turkey and Europe, including Philipp Gropper, Barana, Zülfü Livaneli, and Alp Ersönmez. Those collaborations continue to influence her musical evolution following her debut solo release Soluk (2010).
She’s released a further four albums, including this year’s critically acclaimed Yine de Amin [Still Thankful] that was written in response to the difficult time Turkey and the wider world has been going through these past few years.
The new album focuses heavily on women: their lyrics, stories and issues. Alongside original material by Ertem are songs penned by Yıldız Tilbe and Sıla. Tender, expressive and sincere, Ertem’s blend of Avant-garde pop-jazz is easy on the ear and her heart-felt lyrics resonate deeply with her fans. Live or in the studio, her performance commands your attention.
Ertem’s sole UK date presents music lovers with a chance to hear one of Turkey’s most original and exciting artists from its alternative music scene. Only a limited number of tickets remain for the concert at Gracepoint – a stunning Grade II listed building restored to its former glory having languished for years as a defunct bingo hall.
Concert details
Event: Ceylan Ertem live in London
Date: Friday 17 November 2017
Times: doors open 18:30
Venue: Gracepoint, 161-169 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 2SN
Tickets: £29 + booking fee. Buy online from Evenbrite here
Info and enquiries: call 0794 443 0349 or email pan@panproductions.co.uk
Main photo by Mustafa Ertem of Ceylan Ertem in concert at 222 Park Eskişehir, Oct. 2017
