Navigating rush hour traffic in Madison isn’t nearly as frustrating as big cities, but combine the continued snowfall and having a presidential candidate in town tend to slow things to a brutal crawl. I arrived at Strictly Discs just in time to watch Mark Olson pack up his things from his in-store performance and begin walking around the store picking out a handful of records (Mule Variations was one of them). Obviously Mark Olson is best known for his contributions to the Jayhawks, now disbanded and broken into scattered solo arrangements crossing the country by van instead of by a former ambulance as they once did early in their career.

Most fans of the alt-country genre can agree that Hollywood Town Hall is a beautiful encapsulation of harmonies done right and music in its purest form. Bringing things to the present day, Mark Olson recently released The Salvation Blues, a gorgeously packaged booklet including insightful and well-written liner notes by instrumental extraordinaire and tour mate Michael Gazich. The music is trademark Mark Olson, stripped down and bare, exposing the harsh realities of life, love, struggle and hope.

Within the cozy confines of Cafe Montmartre, those choosing music over politics, were introduced to Ben Kyle of Romantica. What a perfect and very appreciative choice in opening for Mark. Playing carefully chosen selections from their fantastic and MoB approved album America and closing out his set with a stunning rendition of Gram Parsons “Hickory Hill” was worth the price of admission alone.

Obviously everyone in attendance (including Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz) was there to see Mark Olson pour his Salvation Blues from the stage into the hungry hearts of the audience. His set wasn’t confined to solo material, he played “Blue,” probably his best known number that to this day, tugs at the hearts of our generation. It was an enthusiastic performance considering the sparse attendance due to other city happenings. Mark is that kind of performer and that kind of man. Those that made the show got two very special sets one from a promising young songwriter with tremendous appeal and another from a proven veteran, still happy to perform for his fans, both new and old.

Photo Credit: Alex Svanberg

Previously: 5 Questions with Romantica
Elsewhere: Madison Music Review Interview w/Mark Olson

Myspace: Mark Olson
Myspace: Romantica
MP3: Romantica – “La Traviada”

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