In those seemingly terrible situations the age-old adage tells us “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” that’s exactly what Matt Olah did when his SEO firm and marriage fell apart several years ago.
As fate would have it, that lemonade turned out to be a whiskey-fuelled country band that Olah started back in 2009 as he left behind a conventional job and a white picket fence for a new start.
Fast forward to 2014, where Matt is a recognizable face around the Calgary music scene, working as the marketing manager for the Calgary Folk Festival by day and heading up the boisterous band Cowpuncher, a main fixture on stages across the country, by night.
With the release of their 2013 album Ghost Notes, the band’s sound has continued to evolve from bluegrass country to possess more of a rock vibe with new hits like Acetaminophen and Raised on Rock n Roll. While there have been several evolutions of the band’s members and style, one thing remains the same, and that’s the promise of a rowdy live show involving dives off the PA system, a broken nose, and at least a few broken ribs. When we meet Matt for coffee he’s still nursing his latest wounds from a set that got out of hand in Toronto last month.
What’s the best part about your day job?
The best part about working for the Folk Fest is that every now and then I get to help out rad up-and-coming artists. I also get to work with an outrageous cast of characters.
What should we be excited to see at the 2014 Calgary Folk Music Festival?
Basia Bulat, The Good Lovelies and Yamantaka // Sonic Titan. Beyond the music, the beer garden at the Folk Fest is the best summer patio.
And how about your night job?
Cowpuncher is a blast. I get to jump off stages, wear crazy outfits while travelling, and play music with my pals. Although it’s no secret that entertainment is a tough business and sometimes it can get discouraging, I’ve got a great team in Cowpuncher and we are very supportive (with tough love), lifting each other up when we’re down.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Hopefully still rockin’.
What does success look like to you? Does money equal success?
If money equaled success and happiness, I certainly wouldn’t be working in the arts. I think success is just being able to do what you want to do.
When you’re not working at Festival Hall or writing new songs, how do you spend ‘Me’ time?
On my bike! I’m the fastest man in cowboy boots in the city.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
History of Bad Men by the Melvins. It’s got a heavy, laid-back, badass groove. Just like me.
Where is your favourite place to grab a glass of wine in the city?
I don’t drink wine. Am I a rube?
What are the best places to watch live music in Calgary?
That I can answer: Festival Hall, The Palomino, The Gateway, The Ironwood, WineOhs and Broken City.
To listen to tracks off Cowpuncher’s newest album you can visit the band’s page. Matt and the band will also be playing at Jack Singer Hall on June 16th.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
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