Special Instructions hosted by Ella Hussle

Special Instructions is an archival project exploring the intersections of music, memory, and preservation. Inspired by an inherited cd collection from her late father, which host, DJ and librarian then expanded into the art of archiving, the craft of librarianship and collecting books. Special Instructions gives a platform for nostalgia but with a twist. The listening sessions are a combinations of all of these under one umbrella: Sound, memory, and literature. For the next session, join us as we take a closer listen to Fiona Apple's Tidal.

Fiona Apple’s debut album, Tidal, was released on July 23, 1996. It arrived with an emotional depth and vulnerability that seemed beyond her years, yet perfectly captured the raw intensity of adolescence. Echoing the spirit of Maya Angelou and Billie Holiday, she crafted songs that still feel literary and urgent. The album blends jazz-inflected piano, smoky vocals, and confessional lyrics that explore desire, trauma, anger, and self-discovery. Its standout singles, such as Shadowboxer and the Grammy Award-winning Criminal revealed an artist unafraid of truthfulness and confrontation. Tidal established Fiona Apple as a singular songwriter whose honesty and intensity continue to resonate decades later.

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About the organizers and participants:

Ella Hussle is a dynamic DJ, producer, and event curator originally from Las Vegas and now based in Brooklyn. Her musical journey began in 2015, and she's quickly become known for her high-energy sets and sultry, diverse sound. Ella seamlessly blends genres like R&B, UK Street Soul, Funk, Jazz, Disco, and House, creating an eclectic vibe that’s all her own. Beyond her music, she’s built a reputation as a versatile artist who curates community listening sessions, often showcasing her vast CD collection and passion for music in all its forms. Ella is also exploring academia and librarianship, all while nurturing her love for collecting CDs and antiquated books. Her deep affinity for physical media and vintage ephemera enriches her musical identity,  reflecting the eras and influences that shape her sound. @EllaHussle @special.instructions

Head Hi is an organization dedicated to art, architecture, design and sound specializing in publications and cultural programming with an espresso bar located in Fort Greene, Brooklyn by the Navy Yard. We feature a curated selection of publications from around the globe. Working with local and international artists, designers, publishers, and organizations in various fields, Head Hi is a space for exploration and interaction that hosts talks, book launches, exhibitions, music, performances and other events. Head Hi Fi enhances the experience of sound in the space with its vintage Klipsch La Scala speakers. @headhi_ny