Album Notes

Hollye Dexter and the Brave Souls' music is a heartfelt, soulful alternative to the bland form of canned pop we've all been lulled into accepting on the radio. Stylistically speaking, they have successfully blurred the lines between pop, rock, funk, blues and folk to create their own original sound. Consider the impact that Fleetwood Mac had on the music industry in the 70's. This is the potential that people are talking about with this band. The songs are lyrically driven with strong melodic hooks. Regarding their musicality, L.A.'s Music Connection said, "...there is definitely something to be said for strong songwriting, incredibly talented musicians, and versatile vocals". It's good to know that those are still viable assets in the music business.

Produced by her song writing partner and husband Troy Dexter, Hollye released her premier twelve song CD entitled Life Goes On in 1997. This collection of powerful songs covers subjects ranging from questioning faith to finding it again, from anger and loss to the love of a child. Her summation of the album: "This isn't 'do-me baby' stuff, this is music for all brave souls in the real world.

After several live jam sessions with family and friends in 1998, the "Brave Souls" band was born and has been going strong ever since. Hollye and the Brave Souls have become a fixture on the L.A. club scene, having played such venues as the world famous "Roxy", "Luna Park" in West Hollywood, and Borders everywhere (a/k/a "the Borderspalooza" tour) as well as being the annual entertainment for the American Cancer Society's 10k walk. When asked where the band's name came from, she explains that almost every member in the band has survived some kind of life-threatening experience and has lived to tell about it. "This band has a lot of heart and soul. Life is a gift. Music is a gift. We don't take any of it for granted, and are happy to share it."

The Brave Souls consists of a group of seasoned studio musicians; Troy Dexter (guitars and other unusual instruments), Tracey Brown (percussion and vocals), Rick Robbins (guitar), Gary Fine (bass), Robert "Jake" Jacobs (drums), and are occasionally joined by Bob Emmet (keys). The first CD also includes special guest appearances by members of other local L.A. bands. Collectively, these musicians have previously toured with such greats as Melissa Etheridge, Joan Armatrading, Phil Collins, Tower of Power, Young Dubliners, Stephen Bishop, and others.

Hollye had an unconventional childhood, having spent her early formative years on the road with her guitar player Dad, who was the only blue-eyed member of Little Richard's band, and started writing and performing in the coffeehouses and clubs at age fourteen with her songwriting partner Vonda Shepard. Her first ever live performance at the tender age of 11 was at the local talent contest at "Beef n' Barrel Restaurant", where she accompanied herself on a little $15 guitar playing Beatles songs. Although she didn't win the free steak dinner, she has been hooked ever since. Hollye spent the early part of her career as a live and studio backup singer for other artists, but in recent years has clearly defined herself as a solo artist.

Hollye and the Brave Souls are currently in the studio working on their next album, Tales From the Green Room, scheduled for release in Fall, 2000. The new album promises to be a must for every music lover's collection......