Fall for Olenka & the Autumn Lovers

With a name like Olenka Krakus, a 2008 debut EP titled Warsaw Girl and lyrics like "Oj moja kochana kochana kochana... przepraszam ale wyjezdjamy dzisiaj," it's no wonder Eastern European influences are most frequently cited when describing London, Ontario's Olenka & the Autumn Lovers. But this is not your babcia's polka band.

We got to see Olenka & the Autumn Lovers perform at NxEW's NXNE showcase in Toronto this past June; unfortunately the sound in the Gladstone Hotel really didn't do them justice. Olenka's earthy alto voice was clear enough--she can mine the tenor depths or soar into soprano range with ease-- but her band's diverse instruments, including strings, accordion, brass, lap steel, mandolin and glockenspiel were not as distinct as we would have liked.

So we're looking forward to seeing them again this Weds., Oct. 20 at Windsor's Phog Lounge. Following the release of two well-received EPs and their self-titled full-length debut, all in 2008, the band is touring in support of their sophomore album released this month, And Now We Sing. Yes, Olenka is still embracing her heritage, but there are plenty of country and folk influences evident as well. Dołącz do na (join us)! 

Photos: Russ Gordon