Alamedans have a convenient way to blaze in the new year with heart-pumping blues and soul courtesy of the Island’s cultural mecca, Rhythmix Cultural Works (RCW). RCW has invited diva Terrie Odabi to perform two sets of her honest, soulful and intoxicating music New Year’s Eve, Saturday, Dec. 31, at 7 and 10 p.m. The later showing includes a Champagne toast.

Critics say Odabi’s performances are consistently delivered with spellbinding conviction. Blues scholar Lee Hildebrand crowned Odabi West Coast blues royalty. He writes that Odabi is “easily the most dynamic blues and soul woman to have emerged in the Bay Area since Etta James came out of San Francisco’s Fillmore District in the ’50s.”

When the statuesque Oakland native begins to sing, a hush falls over the audience. They’re about to take a ride through the highs and lows of soul music, led by a beautiful singer who packs her shows with tons of energy paired with poignant memories. Whether it’s opening for Average White Band, Lenny Williams, performing at the Concord Pavilion or the Fillmore Jazz Festival, Odabi’s finely honed instrument is matched by her generous spirit and wit.

Also appearing will be Kirk Crumple on bass, Terry Hiatt on guitar, Simon Russell on the keyboard and Derrick Martin playing drums. 

“Terrie’s got soul and charm. Her voice soars and draws you in and makes you feel good. She is full of surprises!” said trombonist Steve Turre, member of the Saturday Night Live Band and professor at the Juilliard School of Music. Turre, who has performed and co-written with Odabi, dubs her “a jewel from the Bay Area.”

Tickets cost $40 in advance, and $45 on the day of the show and All seating is general admission. RCW is located at 2513 Blanding Ave. For more information see www.rhythmix.org.

RCW is a nonprofit community arts organization founded in 2007 where diverse cultures come together to perform, inspire, teach and interact. With a flexible 150-seat theater, gallery space and classroom, RCW supports local, regional and international artists in the presentation of their work and encourages broad participation in the arts.