After an incredible five song performance, it was obvious that Latina-Aussie Natalia Segura and her band, Red Freedom, stole the night at a talent showcase at Manhattan's EVR Lounge. After her performance, I was fortunate to get to interview Natalia Segura, who discussed her return to music, the story behind her songs, and why relationship failures can make you better. Her mission is simple: she wants to help bring the world to the basics of love. "I am the woman who wants to bring people back to this beautiful world that surrounds us," said Natalia. “Because Love is the movement."
Dubbed as "Conscience Pop", a concept conjured by a spiritual friend of hers, Natalia aims to spread the message of positivity and self-love. Her band, a collection of rather accomplished musicians, brings something unique to the table. Combined with Natalia's gorgeous vocals, they breathe new life into the NY music scene. The members: Ari Friedman on electric guitar; Beatles-fan Melissa Vile on bass; and violinist (since age 2) and drummer Mookie Sanders, whose hip hop and gospel background set the pace for a fast paced night from song to song. "Our style when we play live is much more edgier and has more rock elements." Natalia described.
Decked out in an eye-catching ensemble, Natalia started off with "Broken Love Song", which she dedicated to all her ex-lovers. Learning from her past experiences, she admits, "I feel we grow from everyone." Next was "Beautiful In Me", highlighting the discovery and appreciation of one's inner beauty. This one had more rock elements as Ari took the lead with heavy-laden riffs. Next, Natalia exposed her sultry side on "The Dream" and had everyone transfixed. Picture Salma Hayek's snake dance in "Dust Till Dawn", but with a voice to match. The venue's limited space barely contained her energy. "This is about meeting that person that makes you feel invincible, like you can change the world with them," she said. Peaking at song four, "Whom I Really Am" offered insight into Natalia's soul, followed by "World Peace", a protest song which brings to mind the recent events in Venezuela where government forces opened fire at civilian protesters. In 2014, it still fits. "I believe in the power of intention and sending it out because I believe in humanity," Natalia says.
Collectively, the songs symbolize Natalia's step-by-step journey of her life. Having left music to pursue acting, she became disillusioned with people and the business. That's not the case with her return to music, the place where she finds solace. "Music has been calling me and I have been through so much and have come out of dark times with such enthusiasm." But Natalia wants to make this run count and at last she has the support unit to make it happen. Her spiritual quests in life reflect her musical goals: "There's too much beauty in this world to be caught up in the bad." Look out for the movement. It’s in our minds and it's spreading.
