Beyond Nashville: Odin S
At just 16 years old, Odin Sokac, also known as Odin S, is making a name for himself in the Blues music scene. His passion for this beloved genre is palpable and he believes that anyone who feels deeply can sing and play the blues, regardless of their age. This sentiment is encapsulated in his latest single, ‘Mannerist Blues’.
The title ‘Mannerist Blues’ carries a dual significance, both of which are crucial to understanding the song’s essence. Historically, ‘Mannerist’ or ‘Mannerism’ refers to a 16th-century artistic style characterised by artificiality, elegance, and the sensuous distortion of the human figure. This art form was known for its emphasis on exaggerated and often complex poses and compositions.
In the context of Odin Sokac’s debut single, ‘Mannerist’ reflects a different aspect of human behaviour—the tendency to live, speak, and behave in habitual ways that often become the norm. This mannerism can symbolise a stagnation that starkly contrasts with the Blues’ rootsy and improvisational nature. The blues, after all, is a genre born out of genuine human emotions and spontaneous expression. ‘Mannerist Blues’ delves into the rebellious spirit of those who reject societal norms in favour of embracing real human emotions. It celebrates originality, imagination, and positivity in dealing with life’s everyday challenges. This theme perfectly encapsulates Odin Sokac’s mission to spread a message of positivity through his unique interpretation of the blues.
Odin Sokac was born in 2008 in Zagreb, Croatia. He began playing the guitar at the age of eleven, and within two years, he had already written 26 songs. His music balances soul, emotion, technique, and chops, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years.
In 2022, Odin released his debut single, ‘The Wild West War,’ through Dancing Bear Records. That same year, he opened the fourth edition of the Thrill Blues Festival in Croatia, marking his entry into the live Blues scene. His performances have taken him all over Europe and the USA, earning him a reputation as a prodigious talent in the making. A significant milestone in his career was his participation in Little Steven’s Blues Camp in Notodden, Norway, in 2023, made possible by a scholarship from the European Blues Union (EBU). This opportunity allowed him to hone his skills and network with other young blues musicians. In 2024, he competed in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, further cementing his place in the blues community.
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