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Divine Loraine
Biography 1997- to the present (2005) Divine Loraine. A band that has uniquely infused the sounds of classic rock with their own force of modern rock for nearly a decade now continue to produce songs that can muster up old school Black Sabbath-esque delight to simple acoustic ballads that tips it hat to Neil Young. Blended. Unique. Spontaneous. Dedicated. These are just a few of the ingredients that keep this five piece band yearning for new musical ideas and their hunger alive. Their roots go back when Kevin Patrick Olinik (vocals) crossed paths, with then Spoiled Turkey members, Dan E. Park (drums) and Drew Pennington (guitar) at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA back in 1995. Their common adoration of music soon formed the bond that has become the staple of Divine Loraine today. Paul Miller, long time friend and former band mate of Kevin soon joined on months later on guitar while the then trio of Kevin, Andy and Dan were practicing in the basement of Dan’s parents. A bass player was needed and soon Dan’s older brother David, took to the call. Brushing off his old bass guitar and reestablishing himself into the rock community, David proved to be a guiding force for the young band. Practices became more frequent, the writing more furious and soon shows throughout Philadelphia and the immediate area became routine. Through the years, the band has formed a dedicated following and their live shows became known for their full force of gritty rock n’ roll. David Park soon left but still plays a prominent part in the band. His absence was missed and for a bit, Divine Loraine played without a bass player on many occasions. The band then went on to recruit a few more bass players. Among them being Ron Pennington, Andy’s brother and Manic Mule’s Jason Ganis. In 2003 Len Megan, who had played on some bills with Divine Loraine a few years back in his band, Shirati found himself auditioning for the band he had once admired so much. Len was soon in and has proved to be a great addition to the band. Since 1995 Divine Loraine has released four albums, Honkies From Outer Space, Touch of Jazz, Four Song Demo and their latest, The Spark which was recorded at Philadelphia’s famous Sigma Sound Studios and nominated for Best Album at the Philadelphia Music Awards in 2004. They were named best local original band in Philadelphia back in 2000. They’ve appeared on local Philadelphia radio stations Y100 and 94WYSP. A Television performance includes an appearance on Philadelphia’s Fox 29 Morning Show and live performances throughout the immediate area have included the Grape Street, The Khyber, The North Star, The Keswick Theatre and Arlene’s Grocery. Today,
Divine Loraine continues to write and perform live and proves to be
modern day disciples and leaders in their local rock community, staying
true to their mission no matter what obstacle stands in their way. Their
bond has become tighter than ever. Especially since last March of 2004
when Kevin was diagnosed with cancer. The band individually kept busy by
writing and performing where chance gave them. The result produced some
of the finest material the band has produced and Kevin is once again
back on stage. They take pride in their music. Pride in their
performance. Pride in their city. But most importantly, pride in their
union as musicians, friends and brothers who are, Divine Loraine.  |