Toronto, Ontario – New Harlem Productions, one of Toronto’s newest urban arts creators, is proud to present the debut EP "Off My Chest" by recording artist Belladonna the Virtuous.

"Off My Chest" is a cathartic recording, featuring Belladonna’s characteristic fusion of politics and personality. One of the most danceable rants you’ll ever experience, "Off My Chest" also has literary credibility, with rhymes inspired by outrage, a love of life and all the classics ingested while obtaining a UofT degree in English Literature.

The recording features much anticipated performances by guest vocalist Sage as well as the Awakening, a unique organic band with distinct instrumentation on par with Belladonna’s unmistakable lead vocals. John Kendrick (bass), Jeff Burke (bassoon), Michael Clark (djembe drum) and Lai Yee Ho (djembe drum) reinforce the verbal assault with a funky vengeance. Audiences who have grown familiar with the Awakening’s sound throughout 2005’s nearly than 100 performances will still be in for a surprise. Other parts of the EP flip the flavour with music and performances by Gerry Sylvia to tap into Belladonna’s more outspoken side – yes, she gets more outspoken.

Recorded and mixed at Toronto’s Sylcore Media, the versatile styles from track to track come together masterfully under Sylvia’s hands. The EP’s powerful opening with "Uplift Me" is followed up by the rare sultriness of "I’m So Low," and its lyrical consistency carries you all the way through to the more meditative "What Do You Do" at the end. While refraining from glorifying rage, the recording involves listeners in an emotional experience; a journey through the artists’ evolving consciousness.

"All of my music is no holds barred, but ‘Off My Chest’ purges some particular demons that inhibit my positivity," explains Belladonna. "There comes a time when you have to lay down the things that weigh down your pack, because carrying it only bends your own back."

And the music keeps on coming. Belladonna and the Awakening’s performance at NXNE on June 9, 2006 (the Richmond Lounge, Toronto) will feature some of the band’s new material and an expanded retinue with Pierre Mongeon (trumpet), Sage MacPherson (djembe), Chris Kendrick (electric guitar)Mixmaster Michael Brisbin (audiology), Elizabeth Dawn Snell (movement), Andreah Hunt (movement) and Jason Vanstone (movement).

New Harlem Productions is committed to the development of meaningful new works by artists of colour.

www.newharlemproductions.com

MEDIA INQUIRIES (review, interview, queries, photos) please contact Kern Albert at management@newharlemproductions.com or 416-466-2062.

DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES please contact management@newharlemproductions.com