The Other Side is Militia Hill’s latest anticipated release on Philadelphia’s homegrown label. It is a departure from the label’s previous releases and puts a modern twist on Philly’s deep running culture of soul music. The Other Side combines distinct elements of rhythm and blues with an upbeat horn sequence and driving rhythm section. Stemming from the mind of producer and composer, Maxfield Gast, his arrangement of instrumentation gives a warm and embraceful welcome to the soulful and expressive voice of Bethlehem Roberson. Joined by some of Philadelphia’s finest talents, The Other Side brings Bethlehem’s inherent message of growth and perseverance to life. Lyrically, the song tells a story of embarking on a journey of uncertainty which then ends in a joyous and energetic celebration of embracing that same unknown.

Maxfield Gast and Bethlehem Roberson began working together as a part of Bakithi Kumalo’s Graceland Experience band. Their collaboration was naturally derived by their shared interest in soul and R&B and both being Philadelphia natives. Roberson has made a name for herself as a unique acapella singer and as a vocal percussionist, self-described and coining the name “The Vocussionist.” Inspired by Roberson’s soulful vibes and the expressive timbre of her voice, Gast together with Roberson, created their first collaborative single The Other Side.

“This song for me talks about the realities of the struggle within us and how conflicting it can be in real time,” remarks Roberson, reflecting on her own experiences. “Oftentimes, fear of the unknown tends to plant seeds of doubt and uncertainty and a slew of other emotions that can make you comfortable in being stagnant because it's familiar and safe. However with growth comes uncomfortability and uncertainty, which is a part of the excitement of living.” Roberson continues on about the song saying, “Oftentimes, our true heart's desire is on the other side of fear. So if we get to a place where we are ready to actively do the necessary internal work, we will come to realize that the energy we have activated will equip us with all that we need to navigate and take on the unknown.”

Bethlehem Roberson is an exceptionally talented singer, songwriter, seasoned performer and self-described “Vocussionist” who hails from the Germantown section of Philadelphia. Raised in an active church, Roberson often watched her father and uncles perform in their local gospel quartet known as "The Traveling Disciples." Because of this constant immersion in music, Roberson is steeped in the traditions of gospel. Roberson also draws influence from soulful singers including Sam Cooke, David Ruffin, Marvin Gaye, and D'Angelo.

While developing her own personal style as an artist, she has honed in on her Vocussionism skills. “I make music with my whole body. I use my voice, my hands, my feet, my legs, my entire body. I’m more than a singer...a vocussionist...that's what I am,” quotes Roberson in reference to her style as a performer. Roberson relies on her body’s ability to authentically create the music and rhythms she envisions. Using a multitude of these techniques and tap shoes on a Tarima, she is able to captivate her audience while bringing a wide range of dynamics to her voice.

In recent years, Roberson has reconnected with her roots and the teachings of Hebrew which has also influenced her artistry. Her studies of the Torah and other traditional Hebrew texts have helped her as a songwriter by teaching her the sacred power of words and melody. This has greatly influenced her work and approach in expressing the common human story.

Credits:

Written & Composed by: Maxfield Gast & Bethlehem Roberson

Label: Militia Hill

Arranged by: Maxfield Gast

Produced by: Masfield Gast

Executive Produced by: Maxfield Gast

Engineered by: Maxfield Gast

Mixed by: Adam Tilzer

Mastered by: Matt Kilmer

Cover Art by: Jane Eger

Personnel:

Bethlehem Roberson: vocals