Erika Olson’s debut contemporary folk album, This is How I Pray, is a powerful tribute to self-discovery and the courage to forge one’s own path. The album is a reflection of Erika’s journey to reclaim agency over her life, told through poignant and evocative songwriting that draws from a range of musical influences including indie, folk, country, blues, Americana, and pop.

The title track, “This is How I Pray,” written in 2020 amidst a global pandemic, is a standout moment on the album. It’s a moving tribute to the majesty of nature and the spiritual connection it can inspire, even in the absence of a traditional religious setting. Erika’s soulful vocals, which recall the likes of Brandi Carlile and Tracy Chapman, are particularly powerful on this track, conveying a sense of wonder and awe at the beauty of the natural world.

Throughout the album, Erika’s storytelling is both vulnerable and relatable, rooted in the everyday struggles and triumphs of life. Her lyrics capture the aching beauty that can be found in even the most mundane moments, inviting listeners to slow down and take notice of the world around them.

Erika lays out universal themes in deeply personal narratives, tackling everything from motherhood in the country-inspired “I Don’t Feel Like Fighting” and the folksy “Mamma Ain’t Got No Time,” mature love in the indie folk ballad “As I Am”, and heartbreak in the acoustic ballad “Wreckage” to institutional racism in her haunting acoustic song “Benefit of the Doubt.”

This is How I Pray is a stunning debut that showcases Erika Olson’s undeniable talent as a singer, songwriter, and storyteller. It’s a must-listen for anyone who loves contemporary folk music and is looking for an album that speaks to the complexities of the human experience.

Connect with Erika Olson via:

Website // Instagram // Facebook // Twitter // YouTube // TikTok // Spotify //  Soundcloud