birdy... chicago | authentic | acoustic | fringe folk
the band
Chicago-based acoustic group features outstanding vocal harmony, fine originals, and
creative musical arrangements...
With an eclectic repertoire that draws from both traditional and contemporary influences, BIRDY has quickly established itself on the Chicago music scene and beyond, and is a regular performer at coffee houses, restaurants and pubs, folk venues, community centers, neighborhood parties, festivals, and farmers markets.
The BIRDY idea was literally 'sparked' in the '90's while Bianca Bevard and Sharon Speziale were singing around a bonfire at a camping weekend. Instantly recognizing a soaring harmony blend, the two began performing together regularly. In-demand percussionist Meg Thomas, who provides a wonderful driving and creative dimension to BIRDY's established sound, joined the group in 2007. More recently, veteran bassist Roy McNaughton joined the group, with bass lines that are both artistically fluid and warmly down to earth.
A typical BIRDY concert includes Speziale's finely penned originals, covers of favorite singer/songwriters, traditional folk tunes with a twist, songs of love (lost, acquired or desired), and a few other genres thrown in for good measure. The BIRDYs have found influence from Nanci Griffith, Joni Mitchell, Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, The Wailin' Jennys, Deb Talan/The Weepies, Martha Scanlan, Alison Krauss...New Orleans, Flamenco, Appalachian, church and traditional folk music. But it's the band's unique arrangements -- using vocals and slightly obscure instrumental combinations -- that sets them apart. BIRDY resonates with the richness of these influences, entertaining with songs that evoke many different sounds, thoughts, and feelings.
BIRDY's CD MAGIC DAYS was released in August 2012, and their first CD JOURNEY HOME, in October 2009.
contact & booking
L to R: BIRDY is... Roy McNaughton, Megan Thomas, Bianca Bevard & Sharon Speziale