Biography
Imagine some mad guitar wizard producing a hybrid of Ronnie Montrose, James Taylor and Leo Kottke … and then marrying it off to a wild siren sprung from the DNA of Joni Mitchell, Stevie Nicks and Janis Joplin. Their offspring might be Enigma, a dynamic performing/songwriting team out of Southeast Nebraska.
Enigma plays all the great music you remember, that no one else seems to play anymore. From the folk guitar sounds of James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and The Mamas and the Papas, to the beautifully blended harmonies of Simon and Garfunkel, The Eagles, CSNY and Fleetwood Mac; from your favorite 70’s bands like Led Zeppelin, Jefferson Airplane, and The Grateful Dead, to the great vocalists like Janis Joplin, Linda Ronstadt and Etta James; from one-hit wonders you haven’t thought about in years to classic that stand the test of time, Enigma performs them all.
David Epp (composer; acoustic and electric guitars, mandolin, bass, drums, keyboards, vocals) jokingly describes his work as, “a combination of mess and finesse,” He draws from a wide variety of inspirations, from classical, country, pop, and heavy metal, to produce provocative works that speak from every corner of the soul. His inventive writing style and powerful expression provide a beautifully complex framework for Carolyn Olesen (lyricist; vocals, hand percussion) who herself is an amalgam of incurable rebelliousness and rigid discipline. Her background in theatre and dance has helped her to create a formidable and compelling stage persona that fluctuates, chameleon-like, through the facets of human emotion. Her lyrics explore joy and sadness, clarity and madness; from sassy to sublime, abject fear to just plain fun, Olesen’s poetry and delivery reflect the depth and extremes of human experience.
Enigma stands apart from other acoustic acts in their talent, their dedication, and their professionalism. Enigma always delivers a well-rehearsed, well-planned show that is specifically tailored for each venue and audience.
Enigma has released 4 CDs of original music, featuring richly textured guitar compositions coupled with unusually intellectual and introspective lyrics, delivered with gut-wrenching honesty. In 2008 and 2009, Enigma had seven of their original songs signed by Brandon Hills Music (BMI), for use in TV and film.
Moon (2018): A unique and diverse mix of rock, pop, and other genres in the classic rock style, with captivating, thought-provoking and occasionally humorous lyrics coupled with bold, eclectic and intricately-woven compositions.
Cobalt (2011): another bold departure from the cookie-cutter norms of today’s music; a contemporary twist on the great classic rock sound.
Eccentricities (2008): a wild ride on a roller-coaster of darkness and light.
Juxtaposition (2006): a refreshingly unique blending of styles, from acoustic folk/pop to electric rock and blues.
Everything is interconnected.
Nothing stands absolutely alone.
