Miles & Mafale and Karyn Oliver

The Folk Project Troubadour Acoustic Concert Series presents Miles & Mafale and Karyn Oliver

Catherine Miles and Jay Mafale — husband and wife, co-conspirators, storytellers. They are modern folk with a sprinkling of pop-catchiness and theatrical flair. Catherine’s voice is an expressive powerhouse. Jay’s guitar is distinctive and unconventional. Candid and playful onstage, they are known for the plainspoken poetry, clever humor, and unique perspectives of their songs which seek to shift points of view through themes of perseverance and hope. And yes, sometimes they throw in a villain just for fun. Miles & Mafale’s songwriting has earned them acclaim in venerable listening rooms and festivals nationwide, and recognition as Most Wanted Emerging Artists at Falcon Ridge Folk Festival and three-time Kerrville New Folk finalists.

2020 South Florida Folk Festival Songwriters’ Competition winner Karyn Oliver brings a voice that moves effortlessly between blues, country, and folk, blending soulful grit with lyrical warmth. Often compared to artists like Joan Osborne, Janis Joplin, and Emmylou Harris, Oliver’s sound carries both emotional depth and musical versatility, shaped by the eclectic musical landscape she grew up with in Washington, D.C.
A two-time Kerrville New Folk Finalist, Oliver has built a reputation for thoughtful songwriting and compelling live performances. Her songs explore love, resilience, and the winding paths people take to find themselves again, delivered with vivid storytelling and a voice that can shift from tender to powerful in an instant.
Her recordings have charted on folk and americana radio, and her recent work highlights collaborations with outstanding women musicians in the roots music community. Whether performing solo or with a band, Oliver brings warmth, authenticity, and a deep respect for the craft of songwriting to every stage.