Eyes on Maryam Qudus

Have you heard of Doe Eye? 

Well, it's a band on the up led by Union City native, Ms. Maryam Qudus. After a career successful (and personally growing) whirlwind year, she has reached a new level and accomplished a new body of work.

Maryam's first EP, "Run Run Run" expressed a viewpoint of a developing young woman; full of ambition, angst, and autonomy. "Hotel Fire," her sophomore EP, showcases a more complex, reflective expression. More risks, less fear. 

I just happen to live next door to Maryam. Like, the next room. I'm actually listening to her practice as I type this. Playing witness to to a creative process is such a priviledge. From the rough drafts of guitar rifts, to the written lyrics on her black and white striped wall fabric, to the first listen of the finished product from her time in Tiny Telephone Studios with repute producer John Vanderslice, it has been quite the journey.

Needless to say, I'm blessed. And biased. Even so, no one can deny Maryam's allure. She has undefined factor performers can only be born with. I don't know what to call it, I'm not even really sure what it is. I guess you'll have to come out to one of her shows to experience it for yourself.

You're in luck. She's got some shows lined up this month:

• Oct. 6: Oakland Oktoberfest                                                              
• Oct. 9: Cafe Du Nord w/ The Frail & Pop Etc.                                       
• Oct. 27: Bottom of the Hill w/ Rin Tin Tiger

For now, please check out some of my favorite images that I was able to capture from her album release show at Bottom of the Hill on Sept. 8, 2012. If you'd like to see some amazing outtake photos from the album artwork photoshoot taken by Laura Ho, you can visit us at www.numbersixcollective.com.

Much love, always.