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Media Credit: Rachel Morgan
Since forming only seven months ago, the Atlanta-based band Butterfly Stitch has come a long way in a short time.
The trio of Jen Lowe, Sonia Leigh, and Vanessa Olivarez, along with drummer Jim Hodgson, plays a self-described mix of "Americana, rock, bluesy, and soulful music with heady verses and catchy choruses."
The group performed recently at Brother's Bar here in Jacksonville on August 25.
"I'm not just saying this, Brother's is one of our favorite places to play. We really like coming here," said Jen Lowe, rhythm guitarist and percussionist.
Butterfly Stitch also played the 92 J Benefit show in July and this last visit to Jacksonville was one of a series of shows they recently completed with acclaimed Los-Angeles singer-songwriter Adrianne.
Curve Magazine proclaimed her as "the new indie starling" and Performing Songwriter said Adrianne is "a ball of emotion, intensity, and attitude."
"The tour with Adrianne was amazing. She is such a great musician and songwriter. Having her around is a joy and an inspiration," Lowe said.
Along with their busy tour schedule, the band is also hard at work in the studio with producer Greg Lee. This will be their first full-length album and the first six songs will be released as an EP in October.
Their current release, "Live at the Loft," was recorded at The Loft in Columbus, GA, and showcases the band's unique individual talents and how they come together on stage to create an inspired live show.
Olivarez' voice is exceptional and her ability to create an emotional response from the audience lends itself well to the ballads. "Miami," a bittersweet song about Lowe moving to Florida as a child is a good example.
Other songs such as "Roll in the Hay" and "Slide Right In" showcase Leigh's guitar playing. Her playful, raspy voice compliments her bluesy style well and it gives the songs an authentic feel.
Lowe's strong background vocals are evident on "Roll in the Hay" and "21," the closing song. Here, her percussion playing stands out and creates a nice groove that the audience seems to enjoy.
The "Live at the Loft" CD is available at www.boomboompercussion.com. There is a link to the Butterfly Stitch web-site there also.
Their next live show will be Sept. 9th at the Jungle in Atlanta and they will be returning to Jacksonville on Sept. 23rd to play Brother's Bar.
- Jeff Pruitt
Discography
Butterfly Stitch "Live at the Loft"
Butterfly Stitch EP
Photos
Bio
Butterfly Stitch is a collaboration of well-known, diverse and seasoned musicians. The collective musical talents and exceptional songwriting abilities of Jen Lowe (vocals, rhythm guitar, and percussion), Sonia Leigh (vocals and lead guitar) Venessa Olivarez (lead vocals) And Jim Hodson (piano, drums, and bass) give Butterfly Stitch a unique sound fusion of Americana, rock, blues and soul, captivating a rapidly growing fan base throughout the Southeast.
Jen Lowe’s impressive skills as a percussionist have enabled her to share the stage with Jason Mraz, Sister Hazel, and Angie Aparo. Having always been sought for her keen appreciation of the song writing process, Lowe has decided to showcase some of her own writing in Butterfly Stitch. Her amazing energy on stage allows her to front this all-star cast with ease and grace.
Venessa Olivarez (lead vocals) became a household name during her tenure on American Idol’s second season series. A fan favorite, her vocals and stage presence landed her a coveted spot in the final 12. She has recently returned to Atlanta after spending over a year as the Lead in “Hairspray” in Toronto, Canada. In addition to nationwide appearances, number one singles, performances and pursuing a career in acting, Olivarez continues to write songs and tour with Butterfly Stitch. As a vocalist and performer, it has been quoted by some that Vanessa is “perfect.”
Sonia Leigh (vocals and lead guitar) is an award-winning songwriter and accomplished guitar player. She has performed with myriad of talented musicians, including Jennifer Nettles and Kristen Hall of Sugarland, Francine Reed, bassist Chuck Reiney and Sean Castello to name a few. Her style is bluesy and soulful, adding a depth to the band that makes the listener want to reach out and touch the music.
Butterfly Stitch is currently touring throughout the Southeast debuting their unique sound that has elements of Sheryl Crow, Lucinda Williams, Stevie Nicks and The Counting Crows. They were selected to appear in the 2005 Atlantis Music Conference and are currently in the studio, recording their first full length record produced by Greg Lee. Their record is due out in late 2005 as they continue to gain fans with their straight-to-the-heart, good-time rock show.
There is a sweetness to the music that is just meant to tell a story . With heady verses and catchy choruses, Butterfly Stitch will win your heart.
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