‘Her talents at delivery and depth ripple through softly but persuasively’ – ★★★★ The Guardian
Born in Florence to a writer and painter-turned-academic, Olivia Chaney grew up listening to everything from Prince to Henry Purcell. This eclectic mix of influences sparked a passion for songwriting that she nurtured at Chetham’s School of Music and The Royal Academy. After showcasing at SXSW and a stint as lead singer for electronica outfit Zero 7, Olivia signed with Nonesuch, leading to collaborations with Kronos Quartet and a Grammy nomination for Offa Rex, a collection of Fairport Convention-era classics made with The Decemberists.
Olivia’s first solo album (The Longest River), produced by Leo Abrahams, received rave reviews. Following this she recorded Shelter in NYC with genius producer-pianist Thomas Bartlett. These records established Olivia’s reputation as the author of an unmistakable brand of luscious and sophisticated music that explores inherited trauma, the clash of tradition and modernity, and the darkness and light of love.
Circus of Desire, released in March 2024, is Olivia’s first full-length album since she fled the capital, married her dream boy, gave birth to two children, and entered into the deeper mystery of things. Featuring an all-star line-up of friends old and new, including Sam Amidon, Nico Muhly and remixes by Dave Okumu, Oliver Coates and Vessel, Circus of Desire is Olivia set free. Catch these songs played live for the first time by Olivia and her band. Tickets on sale now for an evening of boundary-testing songwriting and arresting performances by an artist at the peak of her powers.
