English singer and songwriter Olivia Chaney defies categorization. Her classical background and traditional 17th century English folk music influences somehow combine into a modern pop sensibility. Portland Oregon’s The Decemberists also defy musical genres, ranging from upbeat pop to lush ballads and progressive rock.
Chaney’s performance as opening act on a Decemberists tour led to an invitation from band leader Colin Meloy to join the Decemberists in the studio. They’d essentially act as a backing band, interpreting her classic British folk music through their American indie-rock instrumentation.
The resulting side project, Offa Rex is a tribute as much as it is a translation. The Decemberists have often commended on the influence of British music, especially ’60s British folk, on their sound. With Offa Rex, they are recognizing that influence directly.
English singer and songwriter Olivia Chaney defies categorization. Her classical background and traditional 17th century English folk music influences somehow combine into a modern pop sensibility. Portland Oregon’s The Decemberists also defy musical genres, ranging from upbeat pop to lush ballads and progressive rock.
Chaney’s performance as opening act on a Decemberists tour led to an invitation from band leader Colin Meloy to join the Decemberists in the studio. They’d essentially act as a backing band, interpreting her classic British folk music through their American indie-rock instrumentation.
The resulting side project, Offa Rex is a tribute as much as it is a translation. The Decemberists have often commended on the influence of British music, especially ’60s British folk, on their sound. With Offa Rex, they are recognizing that influence directly.
