Oh My Soul

Her family is from Mexicali, Mexico, but Vanessa Mardueño (pronounced Mar-dhwen-nyo), was born in East LA. Her musical roots lie not only in the Latin rhythms of her ancestry, but also in the LA Reggae/Ska scene. For years, she played local cafes, small clubs, and bars as a singer/songwriter known for her unique guitar style and jazzy vocals. In 2004 after she became a Christian, her focus shifted towards Christ and she started using her gifts leading worship at churches, mission trips and in creating her own original music. In 2009 she met her husband Stephen, who would eventually become her bass player, ministry partner and a catalyst for her first full-length release.

With “Oh My Soul,” Mardueño blends a heavy dose of Reggae with elements of Jazz, Latin, Folk and Blues. Produced by Mark Mohr, (front-man of Christafari and trailblazer of Gospel Reggae) and cultivated by his 20 plus years in the business, this project has a level of maturity unmatched by other debut albums. It’s sonically diverse, ranging from horn-fueled battle cries to worshipful love songs to the Lord, resting at times on jazzy abstract melodies and avant garde vocals. Christafari is featured on one song, as is Dillavou (known for his work with Lecrae and Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D.). Overall, it’s forward thinking music rooted in tradition with profound lyricism. Through songwriting straight from the heart and inspired by the Bible, Vanessa takes you on a journey through her own personal spiritual transformation. It’s music for your soul!