On March 25, 2024, City Winery in NYC became the epicenter of a seismic artistic event as Christeene, the performance artist and musician, took the stage with special guests Peaches & Justin Vivian Bond. Billed at "The Lion, The Witch and the Cobra" the night was a profound collective response to our tumultuous era, channeled through the raw power and emotion of Sinéad O’Connor’s debut album, "The Lion, The Witch and The Cobra." Accompanied by the meticulously assembled Fukkn Band and buoyed by the support of longtime friends and collaborators, Christeene delivered a rallying cry for unity against ideologies that challenge our existence. Drawing inspiration from O’Connor’s resilience, battles, and empathy, Christeene reimagined the debut album’s anger and energy, making a bold statement on survival, defiance, and compassion.
Known for her unapologetically raw approach to themes of sexuality, gender identity, and societal norms, Christeene, a creation of Paul Soileau, has shattered conventional boundaries with her unique fusion of rap, punk, and electronic music. Her performances at City Winery, complete with audacious costumes and striking visuals, were a testament to her ability to captivate and sometimes challenge the audience, pushing the limits of music and performance art.
Since bursting onto the scene in the early 2010s, Christeene has released music that combines gritty soundscapes with confrontational lyrics, accompanied by visually compelling and often provocative music videos. This body of work further explores societal taboos and the quest for personal freedom, establishing Christeene as a powerful voice for social commentary and queer identity.
Photographer: Ehud Lazin
The City Winery performance was a vivid illustration of Christeene's impact on the underground music and art scenes, blending concert, performance art, and poignant commentary. Christeene’s ability to resonate with a diverse audience, despite her confrontational nature, underscores the depth, complexity, and thoughtfulness behind her art.
In a world craving genuine expression and connection, Christeene’s performance was a beacon of hope and defiance, demonstrating the transformative power of art to challenge the status quo and deepen our understanding of identity and community.
