Caroline Davis formed Alula in order to feature electronic elements in her performances and compositions. “Alula” is the word for a structure on bird wings that appears during moments of take off, flight, and landing. Alula’s second album, Captivity, situates her compositions alongside the lives of eight heroes who kept hope alive through incarceration. The creative music community has majorly contributed to movements in civil rights through the years. From metaphorical lyrics by Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith, to Nina Simone’s impactful lyrics in Mississippi Goddam and Young, Gifted, and Black; jazz and creative musicians have always been present, creating artistic works to protest injustices and speak truth to power. Davis’ album stands on the shoulders of these influences, providing creative insight on the injustices present in the system of mass incarceration in America, and highlights the undeniable strength of those who have been, and some who are still, incarcerated.

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