Olympic Antigua: A Melodic Evolution
Ah, the beauty of evolution! It’s like watching a caterpillar transform into a butterfly or, in this case, a rock band metamorphosing into something with a smidge more finesse—let’s not rush the caterpillar, mind you; it might just be having a snack! Olympic Antigua burst onto the scene in 2021 with their tantalizing single “Mr. Preacher,” making us all tap our feet like someone just put hot coals underneath them.
Now, as if we were all granted VIP backstage passes to the evolution of their sound, they’ve graced us with their second EP, “Open Heart.” This six-track soiree (plus three radio edits—aren’t radio edits the pickiest of picky eaters?) showcases a softer side, a far cry from their earlier rough and rugged vibes. Think of it as Dan Auerbach cozying up with a cappuccino instead of a shot of espresso. Yes, my dear readers, we’re talking desert rock-soul here—elegant enough to sip while pondering the mysteries of life and rough enough to remind you it can also be a bit grimy on occasion.
For those wondering about the fine folks behind this auditory delight, let’s just say Olympic Antigua is a super-group that makes the Avengers look like a high school band. Spanning the Valais-Vaud axis (I’m not sure what that is, but if it’s where they keep the good cheese, I’m in), this sonic squad includes the likes of Tiziano Zandonella from Yellow Teeth, Igor Métrailler of The Last Moan fame, Tim Dorsaz from Tim and the Thieves, and the former drumming dynamo of Mount Koya, Kevin Ruffieux. Yes, all that talent in one band! They’re layering sound like it’s a lasagna—with way less cheese, though—unless we’re talking about the Swiss variety!
And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, they’ve added a new gem to their repertoire: the fabulous Vaud singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Delia Meshlir. She’s here to support our heroes during their concerts, which is the sort of friendship that’ll have no less than five hearts feeling warm and fuzzy. But let’s not get too comfortable—this is a musical evolution, after all. Who knows where this quirky band will go next? I’ll be keeping my eyes on them, possibly while holding a giant foam finger. Because let’s face it: fans deserve good arms.
Speaking of fans, the boys from Olympic Antigua recently provided us a delightful rendezvous during their electrifying performance at the last edition of Label Suisse, and we were fortunate enough to sit down with Igor, Tim, and Kevin to have a good natter. Just like a candid chat over overpriced lattes—only with less foam and far more rock ‘n’ roll. They shared stories that were both cheeky and insightful, illuminating the journey of their evolution as a band.
Wrapping it Up
So if you haven’t already jumped on the Olympic Antigua bandwagon—sorry, grounded, socially distanced, and foot-planted—that missed your cue, then what are you waiting for? Give “Open Heart” a good listen and allow this musical evolution to take you on a journey. Whether you’re dancing like no one’s watching or slightly grooving while pretending to be concise, just remember: we’ve always got room for more tunes in our ears and possibly more hearts in our playlists. Bravo, Olympic Antigua; we eagerly await your next transformation!
It’s nice to witness the evolution of things.
Olympic Antigua had broken into our hearts instantly, from that first single “Mr. Preacher” in 2021 which anticipated the arrival of the first EP of the same name. It was a rough and desert rock-soul blend, “à la Dan Auerbach in The Arcs mode” to venture a reference.
Olympic Antigua have released “Open Heart”, a second six-track EP (+ 3 radio edits) with a softer sound, curated by renowned producer Marcello Giuliani. There is also a new entry in the family, the Vaud singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Delia Meshlir, as support for the concerts. At least for the moment…
Olympic Antigua is a super-group active on the Valais-Vaud axis and composed of Tiziano Zandonella (Yellow Teeth), Igor Métrailler (The Last Moan), Tim Dorsaz (Tim and the Thieves) and Kevin Ruffieux (former drummer of Mount Koya) .
For the 700th episode of Confederation Music, we propose the meeting we had with Igor, Tim and Kevin during their performance at the last edition of Label Suisse.