Artist Mark Olson

Mark Olson’s rather plain name is remarkably recognizable in alt-country and Americana music, partly because he will always be associated with eternal favorites The Jayhawks, but also because of his well-received solo efforts and collaborations with The Original Harmony Ridge Creekdippers and fellow Jayhawk Gary Louris. Olson’s newest solo recording, Many Colored Kite, gently unfurls its simple ideas, consisting mostly of wandering acoustic guitar and his dusty, pleading warble. But when the full-band sound takes hold of strident songs like “Little Bird Of Freedom,” Olson’s narratives gain attractive structure and momentum.

Updated 08/30/2010