Acquired Taste

THE EXPERIENCE: When you hear Acquired Taste, expect more than melodies. They’ll get your feet tapping, your heart singing, and your memories dancing. Whether it’s a shady vineyard patio or a grand ballroom, Acquired Taste invites you to savor the beauty of music—the kind that lingers long after the last note fades.

So, step into their world. Let the harmonies wrap around you. Acquired Taste awaits, ready to set your soul in motion.

INTRODUCTION: Acquired Taste's musical journey took flight in 2019 as Philip Seawell and Jackie Oleson united their talents and their shared love of singing harmonies of the Folk Rock era. Months of arduous rehearsal blossomed into a full repertoire, and, by 2021, their seamless vocal blend had woven enchantment across Central Texas, from intimate Hill Country supper clubs to glamorous Downtown Austin black tie events.

THE DUO EXPANDS: In 2022, they welcomed Jonathan Babiak whose bass guitar expanded their sound, infusing it with fresh energy while preserving the Acquired Taste brand—acoustic covers of such legends as The Beatles, Feist, Billy Joel, Bonnie Raitt, Elvis, James Taylor, Foo Fighters, and many others.

FRESH YET FAMILIAR: Acquired Taste doesn't merely play songs—they breathe life into them. Their renditions are more than mere echoes of the original recordings; they resonate with depth and nuance that is familiar yet refreshingly new. Their music is a bridge between nostalgia and the present.

THE EXPERIENCE: When you hear Acquired Taste, expect more than melodies. They’ll get your feet tapping, your heart singing, and your memories dancing. Whether it’s a shady vineyard patio or a grand ballroom, Acquired Taste invites you to savor the beauty of music—the kind that lingers long after the last note fades.

So, step into their world. Let the harmonies wrap around you. Acquired Taste awaits, ready to set your soul in motion.

PHIL SEAWELL was born in California but grew up in Texas. His earliest musical memories center around his mother's record collection -- which ranged from orchestra, to jazz, to folk music, and much more. He was in the band and choir in high school and later majored in music education -- which led to teaching music and the other arts in the public schools as well as leading music in church settings. Phil is now semi-retired and is part owner of a business. He has three daughters, a son, and five grandsons.

JACKIE OLESON also grew up in Texas. However, she spent many years in Minnesota where she raised her two sons. Her church there had a need for music leadership, so they called on Jackie. For many years, she used her experience in piano, singing, and guitar playing to organize praise team music for the worship services. After moving back to Texas, Jackie joined the choir at her new church home in Round Rock, serving there for many years. And then in 2019 she partnered up with Phil to form their singing duo, Acquired Taste.

JONATHAN BABIAK’s musical journey started with woodwinds through high school band and jazz band, then meandered for three years of music school. He spent five years as an audio technician working with premier entertainers in the 1980s. Jonathan’s midlife crisis was cured when he bought a used bass and taught himself how to play. For the last fifteen years he has played with friends. Recently retired, Jonathan’s renewed search for musical fulfillment brought him to join Phil and Jackie. He loves golden retrievers.

ACQUIRED TASTE -- Performance Requirements

PERFORMANCE: Maximum performance time is three hours, during which there will be
two 15-minute breaks. Access to the performance area is required at least
one-and-a-half hours before performance and one hour after. Performance area
needed is 10' x 10' or equivalent.

ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT: At least one 15-amp circuit is required, preferably on a
dedicated breaker. The breaker should not have any other high load devices, including
lighting, heating elements, motors, cooking equipment, battery chargers, and the like.

PERFORMANCE INTERRUPTION: The performance time will not be extended for
power outages -- no matter the cause or the source -- nor for other interruptions not
attributable to the band. Payment in full is required nonetheless.

PAYMENT: Outdoor performances require a $150 non-refundable down payment.
Unless otherwise arranged, balance or payment in full is due immediately upon
completion of the performance, whether or not an interruption occurs.

DISCOUNTS: Discounts are available in consideration for complimentary food/drinks for
all band members, providing a PA, validated parking, etc.

DANCE MUSIC: Several of our tunes are "dance-able", but we are not a dance band
per se.