Moira Smiley and VOCO dig deep into the amazing spectrum of human voice as they sing post-folk, improvised-built ditties, ballads, vocal symphonies and dance songs. VOCO, founded in 2004 in Los Angeles, sings with the energy of street singing, the risks of improvisation and the wild side of harmony and rhythm. The unusual, rich and percussive combination of cello and banjo weave the funk and low end into the vocals.
Moira works internationally as a composer-vocalist. Based in Los Angeles, she leads VOCO, travels the world as a soloist in early and traditional music and creates new work with dance, theatre and film. Moira's mother tongue is probably traditional folk song. She works with California's KITKA Eastern European Vocal Ensemble and continues to study Irish Sean Nós (old-style) singing and Appalachian ballad and dance-song. Moira has recorded a solo CD, Rua, of Irish, Appalachian and her own songs.
Nobody does vocal music like VOCO—their voices are instruments, creating post-folk vocal symphonies!
"This is a truly phenomenal act, combining the energy of urban street singing with first-rate musicianship, folk roots and traditions from throughout the world. Their body percussion sets are a sight to behold."
—Folkworks Magazine
"Improvisational musicians Moira Smiley & VOCO weave banjo, cello and just a hint of funkiness into a night of unforgettable and unusual music."
—LA Alternative Press