Music in the Stacks, Darien Library’s signature concert series, returns as we welcome soul singer Joy Ike on Sunday, Oct. 28 at 5 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Polished and precise, yet buoyed with an airy grace, Joy Ike paints with a broad palette that defies easy categorization. Born to Nigerian immigrants, the singer/songwriter’s music, voice, and writing have drawn comparisons to female musicians such as Nina Simone, Laura Nyro, and Regina Spektor. But her percussive piano-playing and soaring vocals give homage to her African upbringing.

Leaving her career as a publicist in 2008, Joy has spent the last 10 years playing thousands of shows across the country. She has had the opportunity to share the stage and open for Cody Chestnut, Allen Toussaint, Butterfly Boucher, and Tyrone Wells to name a few.

NPR’s All Things Considered says, “The depth of subjects she tackles in her poetic lyrics are perfectly complemented by a unique blend of neo-soul, with just the right dash of pop…a truly compelling act to watch in person, with the ability to create an intimate setting in locations big and small.” Listen to Joy’s music on her website.