Kristena Olsen - singer-songwriter - November 2003 - review

In her recent return to the Cambridge Folk Club, Kristena Olsen invited her audience to share in her darker side, whilst being gently coaxed into laughter by her lighter side.

A selection of songs from her new album "In A Darkened Room" led the listener through her darker side. But the familar ironic touch was there of such self-penned songs as 'Yellow Piper'. Olsen's candid personal anecdotes melded together an intriguing mix. One song, she told the audience, was about a boyfriend who 'had the bad taste to dump me - always a bad move for a song writer.' As those who know Olsen's work would expect, sexual innuendo and loss recurred, in intensive gritty and often energetic new songs.

Her memorable guitar riffs contrasted and set off her vocal dexterity displayed in the title song, inspired by a seedy hotel room. This set the darker, more reflective mood. On a more pensive note another new song, 'State of Grace' gave food for thought to those renewing contact after the events of 9/11.

Olsen varied her guitar/harmonica accompaniment to suit a number of styles. Blues enthusiasts enjoyed a Robert Johnson cover, and fans of gutsy choruses appreciated the number 'Big Ocean'. Phoebe's Iceberg' pleased those who like the steel guitar sound. Olsen's performance clearly demonstrated a versatility and wry humour which are now the hallmark of an exceptionally gifted musician.