Dueling
Owls

Whooo We Are

We are a tree-dwelling duo. We write and perform our original songs throughout the Midwest and beyond.

With beautifully narrative lyrics that draw heavily from poetic roots, paired with chord progressions that simultaneously evoke Indie-Folk, Southern Gothic, and Balkan moods, the Dueling Owls sound defies genres. Our lyrics are both intimate and universal, coming from our personal journeys in a way that folks young and old can relate to.

Join us on a musical voyage through forests and oceans as we explore themes of yearning, stretching, searching, becoming, dreaming, and loving.

Image of the Dueling Owls under an open shed outside in front of a field of green wild flowers

The Dueling Owls enjoying Summer flowers

The juxtaposition of Urban and Rural, the natural habitat of the Dueling Owls

Image of Zoi standing on a rock exending her left hand to hold a small bouquet of wildflowers hand — Zoï

Zoï has been playing music since she was old enough to stand up. Raised in a traveling band, she has performed internationally for over two decades on guitar, drums, and vocals. Zoï brings her world music background to Dueling Owls, composing melodies and using rhythms that draw from Balkan, Roma, and Flamenco traditions.

When not performing with Dueling Owls, Zoï can be found perched in a Linden tree, eating pickles as she envisions choreography for her next figure skating routine.

Image of James sitting on a rock exending his right hand — James

James has long been at home on stage as a poet, actor, and performer. Now, he adds another discipline to his roster: the role of singer.

A lifelong writer, James carefully crafts the words that wind through our songs, drawing the audience in for a closer listen. He is passionate about all levels and expressions of language, stories, and the word.

When not performing with Dueling Owls, James can be found perched in a Black Locust tree, musing about life or working on his quasi-autobiographical novel.