Described as “one of the finest, most intriguing singers on the British world music scene” by the Guardian, Olcay Bayir brings powerful vocals and her dynamic band to Norwich for the first time.
Described as “one of the finest, most intriguing singers on the British world music scene” by the Guardian, Olcay Bayir brings powerful vocals and her dynamic band to Norwich for the first time. Her deeply warming music is deeply-rooted in tradition yet contemporary, where irresistible rhythms and sophisticated arrangements showcase ancient poems and original songs in Turkish, Kurdish, Armenian and Greek, reflecting her Anatolian heritage.
Born in the historical city of Gaziantep, she moved to the UK as a teenager and trained in opera before releasing her first album Neva. Her second album Rüya featured in the Top 50 of World Music Charts Europe, and she was the recipient of a PRSF Women Make Music award.
“a mix of traditional Anatolian songs and self-written “Kate Bush-like” songs… a beautiful balance between modern and old, everything fits together wonderfully and sounds neither old-fashioned nor modern.” Pop Magazine
“a heart-stoppingly beautiful and emotive voice” RnR Magazine
“a real treat for the ears” Rootsworld