Molly Marlette

Singer and multi-instrumentalist Molly Marlette could be termed a prodigy, but is more a natural musician and personality. Born in 1978, she has been playing since she was a child, growing up in the Los Angeles area while learning about music gradually through her early years, and graduating from Brea Olinda High School in 2006. Some of her early influences included the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Linda Ronstadt, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Billie Holiday, Carole King, Chet Baker, Lou Reed, Fleetwood Mac, Feist, Coldplay, Death Cab for Cutie, and Radiohead. She pursued studies as a tap dancer, but chose a career in music with near instant results and recognition. Specializing in playing the mandolin, guitar, and piano as well as the Wurlitzer keyboard, she also dabbles with the glockenspiel, melodica, and autoharp. Marlette's self-released debut EP, The Allumette, was issued in 2008. She identifies herself as a folk-pop artist, but her style also includes jazz, blues, and rock. Marlette's bandmates include Dayna Coogan on keyboards, vocals, and percussion, and Makai Pace playing guitar, mandolin, melodica, and percussion. She has played benefits Rock for Darfur and the On My Own But Not Alone Foundation. Marlette also landed a part in the film The Kid. ~ Michael G. Nastos