(New York, NY) The self-described “fairy-folk” singer-songwriter, Shira, has announced her upcoming EP, Birds of a Feather, on September 18, 2020.
Like many, Shira is currently living in a time of uncertainty. These songs were originally slated to appear on a full-length album and released in the spring to coincide with a performance at the international music showcase, MUSEXPO. When COVID hit the US, and both her professional and personal life was completely disrupted, she made the decision to return to Israel to be with her family. Her fiancé, however, is in Barcelona, and their wedding has been postponed.
As she’s done her whole life, Shira is looking to music for hope and strength, themes that are evident in many of her songs, along with fate, longing, and the idea of belonging. She explains, “Birds of a Feather is about finding yourself first, exploring, not being afraid to ask for what you want, struggling with the fear of never being seen, listening to your inner voice over outside noise, letting go and trusting.”
The songs from this EP will also be included on the full-length album, Birds of a Feather Flock Together, to be released in early 2021. The album was recorded live in one day at The Diamond Mine Studios in Queens, NY, where artists like Lady Gaga, Adele and the Black Lips have recently recorded. It was produced by Paul Carbonara, of Blondie, who also played guitar, and features drummer Dan Pugach. In addition to vocals and guitar, Shira plays ukulele and is endorsed by Kala Ukuleles.
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Photo by Lucy LaForge| Born in Rochester, NY, to Israeli parents, Shira split her time growing up between Israel and the States. She and her family moved back to the US when she was 10; she knew three words of English at the time. She learned the language while listening to Beatles records, which also inspired her to start singing. Eventually, her brother introduced her to Ella Fitzerald, and Shira felt “she was healing me with her voice. I wanted to do that too, I wanted to heal through music.” About ten years ago, that drive became even more prevalent. Serving in the Israeli Army band (similar to a USO tour), Shira was sent to perform for soldiers and citizens living in war zones. One performance was at an underground bomb shelter where families, including small children, were staying. After the performance, a six-year-old girl approached Shira. “She was wearing a summer dress covered in butterflies, and she ran up to me and held on to my leg asking me not to leave because I made her feel safe again. I knew this was my calling.” |
| SHIRA ONLINE WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | SPOTIFY |
| BIRDS OF A FEATHER TRACKLISTING 1. Usually 2. Go Uncharted 3. Wait For Me 4. Birds of a Feather |
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