Story and photos by guest writer Gerren Kelsaw

Australian born Natasha Sultana, known on stage as Tash Sultana, is representative of a new cadre of artists in the internet age. The self taught guitarist and singer-songwriter garnered millions of hits with busking videos before embarking on her professional career. The warm reception even led her to ask the audience at The Echo “How did you hear about me?”

Sultana came on stage in her trademark style. A loose Harley Davidson T-shirt and baseball cap covering her long curly locks. Her looping guitar style mesmerizes as she uses beatboxing and rhythmic licks to build the base of sonically fulfilling tracks. What is most compelling about her performance are the dynamics she uses to work the crowd. Unafraid to reach for the upper notes whilst still availing herself of the raw and rugged parts of her voice. Varying her playing style between fast guitar in rock style and quiet almost bluesy tones throughout the set. Tash is reminiscent of early Ani DiFranco crossed with the timbre and sweetness of Adele. Perhaps her most recognized song “Jungle” brought the sold out concert venue to raucous appreciation. Continue Reading →