Opal Divine’s Austin Grill

Held and Mann have taken the road a little less traveled in the Austin music scene of honky tonk, latin-influenced, traditional rock and cover band gems. No less energetic or powerful, they blend straight, strident and syncopated rhythms with tasty lead guitar work and Paula’s understated, angelically persuasive singing that if necessary can hit the back wall without ever yelling (think Norah Jones meets Sheryl Crow). Their material blends American Songbook standards with pop-jazz and roots rock originals that hint at the breadth of Paula’s musical influences and take full advantage of Monte’s virtuosity and range. Paula and Monte have each been performing for 20-odd years and on the Austin music scene for over ten years, and both have the artistry and professionalism that comes with the territory. Paula’s played many of the hallowed songwriter havens Austin is famous for, and Monte’s also performed at many well-established Austin venues, including Antone’s, Threadgill’s World Headquarters and the Broken Spoke, sharing the stage with alumni of renowned Texas artists such as George Strait, Asleep at the Wheel, and Rotel & the Hot Tomatoes. The two have been playing together for three years, including a monthly residency in Wimberley. Their three years of collaboration have produced a duo that is more than the sum of its heady parts, an addictive assemblage of jazz, pop and rock that will leave you wanting more. Please check out their music and consider them for your venue or event. You won’t be disappointed! WORD FOR THE WISE “Paula began playing music at my restaurant February 11, 2011. For ten years I wrote a music column. In that time I have seen many hundreds of performers and learned to judge their quality of performance. Very few reach her level of excellence. Paula slides effortlessly from country to jazz standards, to soft rock. Her own singer/songwriter creations scan several genres and are remarkably crafted throughout. Though her scope forestalls any boredom at the front tables, it never loses that sense of artistic integrity so essential to a great performer. With a voice at once soulful and controlled and a guitar that plays any direction with seeming ease, she stays at the emotional center of of her music [accentuated] by the intricate lead guitar work of Monte Mann.” Jimmy Ash, Linda’s Fine Foods, Wimberley TX "Seeing Paula and Monte is an inspiring experience ... [they] will entrance you with a jazz standard delivered with authentic grace ... hypnotize you with an original song that you won’t forget ... set you free with a version of a pop tune that seems as fresh and clear as the eyes of a newborn. Paula has a gorgeous voice and she’s truly a gifted tunesmith. Monte is a top shelf guitarist with chops to satisfy.” Ryan Pomante, fan and performing artist, Exton PA OTHER PROJECTS Paula also performs as a solo artist under the name Paula Held, and with her jazz trio, Moon Blossom. Check out her other profiles on Gig Town!