Olcay Bayır is one of Turkey’s finest musical exports. Now based in the UK, the classically trained soprano with a velveteen voice like no other sings stories of Anatolian love and mystery.
Hailing from Turkey’s southeast region and of Kurdish origin, she took the World Music scene by storm following the release of her stunning debut album Neva/Harmony in 2014. During this 9‑track musical odyssey through Olcay’s diverse Anatolian heritage, the singer crafts intricate and unusual melodic phrases, distinct harmonies and captivating, richly-layered textures.
Her contemporary sound incorporates elements of Folk, Jazz and neo-classical, with evocative vocal deliveries, and original compositions and arrangements of folk songs from Mediterranean, Anatolian and Mesopotamian sources for a world fusion result.
The Guardian described her as, “an impressive newcomer to London’s vibrant global music scene”, giving Olcay’s live performance a 4**** rating: “This is an elegant and often gently exquisite set.”
See Olcay live at Café Barcelona later this month. She is one of five international performers who will be appearing at the Streatham venue’s five-day World Music Festival, which kicks off on Tuesday 24the May. Its series of concerts traverses through the sounds of Portugal, Cape Verde, Italy and Cuba. The venue, run by two musicians, is renowned for its intimate, cosy atmosphere with great crowds and music. So book your tickets before they all go!
Event details
Concert: Olcay Bayır concert, part of World Music Festival
Date: Wednesday 25th May 2016
Starts: doors open 7pm, music starts 6.30pm
Venue address: Café Barcelona, 344A Streatham High Road, Streatham, London SW16 6HH
Tickets: £12, available from the venue or online here
Festival info: www.cafebarcelonalondon.co.uk
