Zee Avi and Henry Wolfe at The Griffin: 2012
Zee Avi and Henry Wolfe performed at The Griffin in San Diego. The double bill brought two distinct singer-songwriter voices to the intimate venue - Avi's jazz-influenced folk and Wolfe's indie-pop sensibility.
Henry Wolfe
Henry Wolfe (son of actress Meryl Streep, though he'd prefer to be known for his music rather than his family) makes thoughtful indie-pop and singer-songwriter music. His songs are melodic, well-crafted, and lyrically intelligent.
Wolfe's performance was intimate and engaging. He has a warm stage presence and connects with audiences through storytelling between songs. His music isn't trying to be revolutionary; it's making well-crafted songs about relationships, experiences, and observations.
Growing up with famous parents could have led to relying on that connection, but Wolfe works as a musician on his own merits, touring small venues and building audiences through the music rather than the name.
Zee Avi
Malaysian-born singer-songwriter Zee Avi makes music that blends folk, jazz, and indie-pop with subtle Malaysian influences. Her voice is distinctive - soft, jazzy, and emotionally expressive. Her ukulele playing adds texture and intimacy.
Avi first gained attention through YouTube, posting homemade videos of her songs and building a following before getting signed. By 2012, she'd released two albums and was touring internationally.
Her songs are gentle but not weak, introspective but not self-indulgent. She writes about love, longing, and everyday moments with jazz-influenced melodies and folk intimacy.
The Griffin Setting
The Griffin provided perfect intimacy for both artists. Singer-songwriters rely on connection with audiences - you need to hear lyrics clearly, see expressions, and feel like you're having a conversation rather than watching a distant performance.
Small venues like The Griffin give singer-songwriters space to shine without needing production or spectacle. The music stands on its own.
The YouTube Generation
Zee Avi represents a generation of artists who built careers through YouTube and social media rather than traditional industry pathways. She recorded songs in her room, posted them online, and found an audience before labels got involved.
This democratization of music distribution changed the industry fundamentally. You no longer needed label support to reach audiences - just talent, internet access, and willingness to share your work.
Jazz-Folk Fusion
Avi's blend of jazz harmony with folk instrumentation creates something distinctive. The ukulele provides folk intimacy while her melodies and phrasing draw on jazz traditions. It's a unique combination that sets her apart from generic singer-songwriters.
The Double Bill Format
Pairing Wolfe and Avi created nice variety - both singer-songwriters but with different approaches. Wolfe's indie-pop was more straightforward, Avi's jazz-folk more nuanced. Together they showed singer-songwriter music's range.
The Verdict
Zee Avi and Henry Wolfe at The Griffin was intimate singer-songwriter music done well. Both artists brought skill, sincerity, and strong songs to a venue that let those qualities shine.
If you love singer-songwriters who prioritize craft and connection, if you appreciate jazz-influenced folk and thoughtful indie-pop, if you want music that works in small rooms with careful listening, both artists delivered.
Thank you to both for making music on their own terms and for playing small venues where songs can be heard properly.