I Found A New Light In A Small Wooden Box Accompanied A Voice Filled With Grace

words by Flex Mathews

On February 17th, I found myself taking photos at 1302 Otis Street for a live recording series called “Small Wooden Box”. The featured guest at were Prince George’s Country Youth Poet Laureate Sainey Ceesay and the singing of Imani Grace. The whole evening was congenial to say the least.

Sainey Ceesay

Having never heard Miss Ceesay I was somewhat excited. As person who alwayslooking new music and art, it’s quite the pleasure when it just falls in your lap. I must say, there is a great deal of light radiating out Sainey Ceesay. That light is full of youth and wisdom with inquiries about the future. A young black voice burden by concerns of the now, yet optimistic about the unknown. At least that’s what I got from the poetry she delivered. It was amazing!Dope! I’m sure her personal and artistic growth will be just as captivating as the art she shares.

That being said, Imani Grace was up next. A songstress that has been smoldering jam sessions and studio recordings with her brilliant voice in the DC area. I first seen Imani at Marvins that used to be the located on 14th Street (It feels strange typing that). Close to the corner of U street NW. On that night it was clear why the leader of the band kept passing her the mic during the jam session. She effortlessly maneuvered through the sounds of the instruments sprinkling her voice in all the choice spots of the music.

Imani Grace

She was improving, which made what Imani Grace was doing even more dazzling to witness. At the Wooden Box it was no different. She gave a very tasteful performance that left everyone in the Box rather speechless at times. A true sight to behold. I am grateful for Wooden Box’s. I am grateful for art.

Peace

Flex Mathews