Olga's Profile

About me:BLUES ARTIST OLGA RELEASES NOW IS THE TIME
Exciting twist on north Mississippi hill country blues
certain to satisfy aficionados and new blues fans alike.

The latest release from Olga, Now Is The Time (219records) represents the continued musical odyssey of one of the hottest new talents on the blues scene.

On her third album, Jimbo Mathus (Squirrel Nut Zippers) and house band Clarksdale Sound Machine provide backup on songs that enable the blueswoman to display her considerable vocal talents; outstanding lyrics; and ability to artfully meld the blues with rock and country. Mathus produced the album at his studio.

The Memphis-based artist, who is from San Francisco and of Austrian descent, pours out heart and soul like a native of the hill country of north Mississippi, the nexus of her musical inspiration. The lyrics are simple, clean and powerful like the blues should be, and speak to truths to which every listener will relate.

“Blues is the truth,” she says. “Speak the truth and you’ll know the blues.”

Classically trained in voice, piano and violin, her musical mastery is obvious. What is a pleasant surprise to the listener is the way she is able to shape and mold an old musical tradition into something that is uniquely hers while honoring the traditions of countless blues predecessors.

Her early mentors, Maria Muldaur and Los Lobos, laid the groundwork for her to understand how to survive long-term in the business. Her blues inspiration derives from Jessie Mae Hemphill, Bessie Smith, Ella Fitzgerald, Junior Kimbrough, Memphis Minnie, and Peggy Lee. Their influence is evident in both her performance and her songwriting ability.

Critics agree. T. Speed of Honest Tune magazine said that “it's a laid back affair, with Mathus and his buddies providing a remarkably adept backing band, and Olga's sultry voice proving that the blues is really good time music.” Silvano Brambilla of Italy’s Il Blues says “Olga may represent a sort of ‘new move’ on the blues chessboard.”
The album is a treat for blues aficionados and those wanting something new and exciting to add to their listening repertoire.
Olga’s new album, Now Is The Time, is available in retail stores, on iTunes, and from her website at www.laolga.com.

Member Since:November 27, 2001
Last Login:September 18, 2009
Location:New Orleans, LA
Music means to me:

Olga's new music video! Called "Now Is The Time"
Other Distractions:the freakin' computer!

whiskey at Taylor Gro.

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