Biography
Julie Odell is a New Orleans-based singer-songwriter whose music is characterized by folky, dreamy, and soulful textures, marked by her powerful and distinctive vocals. Born into an artistic family—her mother a painter and her father a potter—Odell spent much of her childhood traveling to art festivals and craft fairs, absorbing a creative spirit that would later infuse her music. Although she once dreamed of becoming a meteorologist, she gravitated toward the arts, starting with writing and performing 'dainty piano waltzes' on her family's upright piano during her youth[1][4].
Odell began performing at open mic nights and quickly became known for her piano-driven ballads, reminiscent of artists like Regina Spektor and Fiona Apple. As her career developed, she formed the psychedelic folk-rock band Giant Cloud, which toured extensively and released an album before she transitioned to performing under her own name. Her solo work is noted for its dynamic range, shifting between chaotic, fast-paced passages and delicate, quiet moments—a reflection of her fascination with musical dynamics and emotional contrasts[1][2].
Her debut album, 'Autumn Eve,' and subsequent releases like the EP 'Disappearing Act,' showcase her ability to blend earthy, grounded songwriting with experimental textures. Odell's music often draws from personal experiences, including mental health struggles, and she is recognized for creating immersive live performances that foster a deep connection with her audience. Her legacy is one of constant transformation and artistic exploration, rooted in the vibrant cultural landscape of New Orleans[4][5][6].
Fun Facts
- Julie Odell originally wanted to be a meteorologist and dreamed of chasing tornadoes with friends, a sense of adventure that now informs her unpredictable songwriting style[1][4].
- Her earliest inspiration to write music came from hearing her older sister compose a song on piano, which made her realize she could create her own songs[2][3].
- Odell spent much of her childhood traveling in a van to art festivals and craft fairs with her artist parents, shaping her creative worldview[1][4].
- She often opened for hardcore and emo bands in her early career, performing gentle piano songs to audiences more accustomed to high-energy genres, creating memorable contrasts at live shows[2].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Older sister (unnamed) - Inspired Julie to start writing music after hearing her compose on piano; early musical influence through shared harmonizing and exposure to artists like Fiona Apple, Tori Amos, Mariah Carey, and Dixie Chicks (Early songwriting and harmonizing experiences) [Childhood through adolescence]
Key Collaborators
- Giant Cloud - Band formed by Julie Odell; she was a founding member and songwriter (Giant Cloud album (released on Park The Van)) [Early career (dates not specified)]
- Kenny Murphy - Bassist in Julie Odell's solo band (Live performances, including songs like 'Cardinal Feather') [Recent years]
- Jonathan Arceneaux - Drummer in Julie Odell's solo band (Live performances, including songs like 'Cardinal Feather') [Recent years]
- Tif “Teddy” Lamson - Best friend and recording engineer; collaborated on the EP 'Disappearing Act' during the COVID-19 pandemic (Disappearing Act EP (recorded at Marigny Studios)) [2020]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Eve | 2022-09-30 | Album |
| Share the Road | 2015-08-01 | Album |
| Share the Road | 2014-06-24 | Album |
| I Put My Treasures in My Pockets | 2008-12-05 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Caterpillar (Autumn Eve)
- I'll See You in Hell (Slow Lightning)
- I'll See You in Hell (Slow Lightning (Deluxe))
- Caterpillar (Caterpillar)
- Habibti (Habibti)
- I'll See You in Hell (I'll See You in Hell)
- Gone Away (Gone Away)
- Disappearing Act (Disappearing Act)
- Envelope (Autumn Eve)
- Cardinal Feather (Autumn Eve)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
JULIE ODELL has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 10, 2025 | 22:24 | AUTUMN EVEfrom AUTUMN EVE | Kitchen Sinkw/ Derrick Freeman |