
4 minute read
Solo acts in the Alps
from The Yodl Echo - Issue one
by SkiYodl
We’ve compiled a cheeky little cheat sheet of our top five soloists regularly gigging around the Alps.
You’ve just wrapped up an absolute cracker of a day on the slopes, your body’s humming with that post-ski excitement, and all you want to do is unwind (but with a drink in your hand of course). Well, you’re in luck.
Words & images - Megan Pleva
Al Jones
Our honey-voiced dreamboat, Al Jones. Al brings decades of experience and a cool, folk-blues vibe to every performance. Whether he’s going solo, joining forces with Tchaï for an incredible duo, or lighting up the stage as the Al Jones band, you’re in for a real treat. Al has two alter egos - his original music falls under ‘Albert Jones,’ while ‘Al Jones’ is reserved for his legendary covers. Buttery vocals with chilled vibes all around. Catch him at LDV* for an unforgettable afternoon in the sun.

Après-ski in the Alps doesn't always mean getting swept up in a whirlwind of rowdy crowds, sticky hair and finding yourself resenting your ski boots by 10pm. In fact, there’s a so er side to the chaotic après-ski scene that’s perfect for decompressing with a pint a er a tiring day of being a legend and carving up the mountains. And that’s to unwind to the sweet, sugary melodies from our alpine soloists.
Paddy James
The party is Paddy James, an artist with a stage presence that fills every room to the brim. Paddy is a British singer and songwriter who dazzles the crowds with originals and covers. For those after a chilled start followed by a cheeky jive at the end - trust us, you won’t be able to stop your feet tapping. Paddy has a knack for adding an international flavour to his repertoire. In fact, you’ll likely hear him expertly playing ‘Bella Ciao’ among his other tracks.

Sian Hayley Smith
Meet the embodiment of Irish charm – Sian Hayley Smith. She’s a one-woman band and a looping artist who never fails to bring the goods. She sings, plays guitar and shakes percussive instruments all layered through her loop pedal to build up big, juicy tracks that make a hell of a lot more noise than you’d expect from a one-woman soloist. Sian has been treating her fans to her unique sound at venues like Jacks Bar and The Ronnie for years now. From her voice to her heartwarming aura, Sian is pure gorgeousness and the absolute perfect choice for a chilled, old school sing-along après.

Ben Vickers
Ben Vickers is one of those musicians that locals, holidaymakers and seasonaires all know, love and continue to seek out time and time again. Known for his soulful voice and magnetic presence, he is a loved fixture in the Alps. Armed with a guitar and a creamy voice, Vickers is a truly versatile performer.
Hobo Chic
Last, but certainly not least, is Hobo Chic. This guy has a talent for groovy funk and acoustic sets, where he puts his own unique spin on classics. He’s got the stage presence dialled and is just such a likeable character you can’t help yourself but get involved. If you find yourself with the opportunity to see Hobo Chic live, jump at it.

Where to find them:
All of these incredible soloists can be found across many bars and hotels across the Alps, some venues you may recognise are:
*Lodge du Village, La Tavern, Jacks Bar & The RonnieMeribel | La Mine - La Plagne | Le Pelican - Courchevel 1650 | L’art b - St Martin | Biskatcha - Les Gets | Wakpala and Terre de Belevard - Annecy