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Ollabelle
Biography
Ollabelle formed on the Lower East Side of Manhattan in the aftermath of September 11, 2001. They began playing at a corner bar on East 9th Street and Avenue C called 9-C, now known as Banjo Jim's. The band began playing for tips and drinks in this low-key, funky listening room frequented by up and coming blues and Americana musicians. By 2004, they had issued their first of two critically acclaimed albums on Columbia/ Sony Music. The group includes Amy Helm, the daughter of legendary band drummer and vocalist Levon Helm; Fiona McBain on vocals and acoustic guitar; Byron Isaacs on vocals and bass; Tony Leone on vocals and drums; Glenn Patscha on vocals and keyboards, and Jimi Zhivago on vocals and electric guitars, dobro and mandolin. The group draws its inspiration from all genres of American roots/vernacular music, including gospel, blues, country, and bluegrass. Their self-titled debut album was loaded with traditional songs, including Bessie Jones' "Before This Time," "Soul of a Man," "Elijah Rock," "Jesus on the Mainline," and others, but their debut does include some originals and one Jagger/Richards composition, "I Am Waiting." What began as a side project for all the musicians involved led to a deal with Columbia/ Sony Music and their debut was produced by fellow roots musician T Bone Burnett.
Selected Discography
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