When it comes to the local scene, singer-songwriter Crystal “C-Note” Clouse has emerged as a bona fide A-lister. 

Outside her work behind the mic as a solo artist and more than 15 years fronting the cover band Sum Morz, she has helped organize festivals such as Vibe Higher Fest and Andy Music Fest, among other musical endeavors. 

Of course, being a part of the Brown bloodline helps, with parents Ted and Pamela Brown fronting the band Pop n Fresh, sister Sara fronting Saric the Majestic Fuzzbeast, sister Dusty working on a solo album, and brother Travis in The Taj Maholics. 

However, even with genetic advantages, things don’t always come easy. Just ask Clouse, who is about to let it all out in her new album Wake Up, the follow-up to her 2022 debut Shadow Works. 

To celebrate the release, Clouse is hosting a Dream-Themed album release show in Stan’s Room at Piere’s on Saturday, March 9.

Working in collaboration

On Wake Up, Clouse covers a spectrum of emotions, from anger and sadness to hope and strength, which promises to leave a lasting impression to listeners. 

Like her debut, the album hops through an engaging mix of styles including soul, R&B, hip-hop, and dance. 

“After Shadow Works, I came right out of the gate and starting working on this album,” Clouse said. 

“The first album was very exploratory, meshing styles I liked and ended up with a certain artistic chaos. Wake Up has me much closer to defining my style and sound by honing in on my strengths in rap and mixing that with live instrumentation aspect. 

“In all, it took about a year and a half to complete.” 

The new album was recorded by T-Zank of Successful Musik Studios with a production nod to Adam Baker, the primary guitarist whose blend of live instrumentation adds depth to the album’s sonic landscape. 

“Working with C-Note has been a lot of fun and has challenged me to think a bit differently both as a guitarist and producer,” said Baker who has solo projects as well as his current band The High Freqs. “She usually has a good idea of what she wants in terms of feel, but lets me be me when it comes to tones, textures, and sounds. 

“My favorite thing to do with a guitar is to search for the weirdest sounds and then find ways to use them. She totally embraces that, and somehow, with Zank’s help, it fits in songs that hit hard and I think will have broad appeal.” 

The feeling is mutual with T-Zank, who is amazed at how well Clouse takes things from scratch and turns them into a masterpiece. He said the album has a positive message that lets you know who you are at the end of the day. 

A look at the album

Wake Up consists of 12 tracks, including “Walk on By,” a four-on-the-floor rock song featuring Baker and Arthur Mock. The song is about ignoring naysayers and turning their words into motivation. 

On “Never Said,” Clouse sings about seeing through people who try to love without fixing themselves and calling them on it. Clouse said her favorite line in the song is the chorus, “I can’t love your pieces back together/I can’t fix the parts that you’re without.” 

Folks have already got a taste of the album with the title track released in early February, which has created quite a buzz. 

“Wake Up” is about waking up in an inauthentic life. It even has an accompanying video filmed by Brian Foster of We R Media. 

“Where’s My Crown” is another track she dropped as a teaser in anticipation of the official release. 

Other notable contributors on the album include Moe Z MD, Derek Reeves, Will Brown, Brad Smith, Ben Frankie, Drew Lines, ZB, and Travis Brown. 

Festive night

To celebrate the release, fans are encouraged to put their creativity to work and dress up for the Dream Theme in Stan’s Room. 

The party will be your first opportunity to feast your eyes and ears on the new material, and you will want to get there on time as Pop n Fresh and Deceptaconz are also on the bill. 

In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to witness a live art rendering by Shea Rutherford, owner of Black Sheep Tattoo and Art Gallery. There will also be an art auction to benefit Road to Recovery. Folks are also encouraged to bring donations of household and hygiene items to support Road to Recovery. 

Three musical acts, live art, drinks, and a chance to dress up for a low dough cover of $10 advance/$15 at the door — take my money now! Tickets can be purchased at etix.com or if you come across Clouse, she just may have some to sell. 

With a diverse range of influences and commitment to authenticity, Clouse continues to push boundaries and inspire audiences. Her journey from growing up singing with the family to becoming a local standout is a testament to her talent, versatility, and unwaver-ing passion for music. 

Wake up folks, C-Note has something good cooking in The Fort.