It begins at a soft volume, but it’s as far removed from timidity as one could imagine. “Whom shall I fear?” No one. Least of all an ignorant chauvinist. Paige Renée Berry clarifies the query by speaking her truth on the autobiographical “I Am My Own God,” featured on today’s AMM.
The songwriter and vocalist of Austin’s Half Dream wrote the piece after an experience with a music professional (the term “professional” being used rather loosely, in this case) whose misogynist attitude invited a swift kick in the pants, at the very least. Instead, the incident reminded Berry of her personal power. It’s a celebration of standing your ground in the face of adversity. The track features the multi-talented Thor Harris contributing percussion and a tapestry of ambient layers.
Berry performs a solo set tomorrow night, Tuesday Dec. 7, at Hole In the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe. She shares the bill with Tearjerk and Joelton Mayfield. Doors at 8 p.m.
