National Geographic Music (National Geographic)

Two of our favorite singers from the Bay Area, Meklit Hadero and Quinn Deveaux, have teamed up for a new album and tour.

Meklit & Quinn is scheduled for a September 18th release on Porto Franco records, with a bi-coastal supporting tour also in September.

The album itself boasts both original material and new, soulful takes on r&b alternative and indie rock classics, from Sam Cooke and Stevie Wonder to Lou Reed, Patty Smith and Arcade Fire.

The full press release and tour dates are reprinted below.

Singer-songwriter Meklit Hadero, a Senior TED Fellow and deeply involved pioneering force in San Francisco's artistic scene, is a global tapestry of musical and cultural influences. Her music blends New York jazz and West Coast folk with traditional Ethiopian and much more. "She sings about fragility, hope, and self-empowerment, and exudes all three," (SF Chronicle), offering her messages in a voice as sensuous and original as it is stunning. Equally at home across genres, Quinn DeVeaux is a commanding frontman who turns out remarkable original work filled with joy, grit and irresistible beats. A catchy crossroads of Chicago blues and New Orleans soul and gospel, he is packing in Bay Area dance floors and beyond.

Now, for the first time, these two artists of universal appeal and unbounded optimism join forces. Their chemistry and piquant blend of influences take the spotlight in this selection of originals and covers of their favorite pop songs. From Arcade Fire and MGMT to Lou Reed and Stevie Wonder, the San Francisco duo's imagination and passion buoy well-loved songs to new heights.

Meklit & Quinn Tour Dates:

09/09 @ Tin Angel - Philadelphia, PA [LINK]
09/12: Le Poisson Rouge - New York, NY [LINK]
09/19: Playhouse - Arcata, CA
09/21: Center For The Arts - Grass Valley, CA
09/23: Monterey Jazz Festival - Monterey, CA
09/25: Yoshi's Oakland - Oakland, CA
09/27: Hotel Café - Los Angeles, CA