Violet Bell at the Robin Theatre

Violet Bell is re-wilding Americana. On their upcoming album Shapeshifter they reimagine the ancient story of the selkie, a mythical seal that can shed her skin to become human. At the album’s heart is an exploration of identity and belonging beyond cultural norms.

Lizzy Ross (guitar/banjo/vocals) and Omar Ruiz-Lopez (cello, violin, guitar, mandolin,vocals) blend pop sensibilities with classical chops and folk traditions creating an “elegant marriage of strings and vocals delicate yet powerful.” (Encore Magazine)

Omar Ruiz-Lopez was born in Panama and raised in Puerto Rico, while Lizzy Ross grew up in Maryland and NYC. Given their wildly different backgrounds, Violet Bell has a unique perspective on the roots music traditions that inform their sound. Currently based in North Carolina, they’re tending to traditions and creating a new way forward with like-minded musical innovators.

Violet Bell recorded Shapeshifter with Grammy-nominated producer Jason Richmond (Avett Brothers) and musical guests Libby Rodenbough and Joseph Terrell (Mipso), Tatiana Hargreaves, and Joe Troop (Che Appalache).