From all indie genres, Folk seems to have a special place in our hearts. We can't help to get back to folk songs when we look for some calm and inspiration. When we want to hope for a nice dream. Or when we are feeling in the mood for some very well told stories. As an honour to those feelings, this series is entitled TIFU (Today I Folked Up). Only folk songs from new folk artists. To let you and ourselves go.
Belle Butler – Quick
Belle Butler‘s music delves into the depths of human emotion, forging a connection akin to a profound conversation with a newfound acquaintance. Her intimate vocals seamlessly blend vulnerability and strength, while her captivating guitar and piano skills beckon listeners on an evocative journey. Music has long been her sanctuary, and now she shares it with others. Often likened to artists like Leonard Cohen, Patti Smith, Joni Mitchell, and Billy Bragg for her heartfelt and unvarnished storytelling, Belle Butler‘s music is authentic and unfiltered. Her debut single, “I Am She“, emerged from personal and observed encounters with misogyny and gender-based abuse, ultimately celebrating women’s resilience and support for each other. In her subsequent release, “Quick“, Belle grapples with the relentless march of time and the involuntary changes it imposes, exploring themes of grief, loss, resistance, nostalgia, acceptance, and beauty.
About “Quick“, Belle told us: “When I wrote “Quick” I felt like time was racing ahead and away from me while I was standing still. Changes were occurring without my intention or consent – as if time was robbing me of parts of myself. “Quick” is about this experience of change, as well as the loss, grief, resistance, nostalgia and acceptance that came with it.“
Great Howl – Meet Your Maker
Hailing from Austin, Texas, Great Howl is an electrifying 8-piece ensemble that effortlessly oscillates between the realms of the dreamlike and the cataclysmic. Led by the visionary singer-songwriter Matt Mossman, the band is a congregation of some of Austin’s most esteemed musicians and songwriters, such as the talented Kate Heron, Spencer Carter of the Gilded Lows, Pat Miller from Blair Might, and several virtuosos from the globally recognized Minor Mishap Marching Band. Formed in the twilight of 2022, Great Howl delves deep into the human experience, addressing our existential vulnerabilities—be it ageing, heartbreak, or the overarching global issues of war, political upheaval, and the devastating impacts of climate change. Yet, amid these daunting themes, their melodies resound with an underlying optimism, a relentless search for glimmers of hope amid the profound anxieties of our age.
“Meet Your Maker“, their latest track, commences with a brooding ambience and swiftly gains momentum as a formidable drum rhythm takes the helm, reminiscent of the unpredictable genius of peak Arcade Fire. The bass adds depth with its resonant undertones, while the antique piano notes, both sombre and prolonged, bestow the song with an air of reflective introspection. However, it’s the sophisticated touch of the cello and strings that lends the song an unparalleled elegance. As the track progresses, it flares up in intensity, metamorphosing into a more vibrant and energetic version of itself. The crescendo is marked by a burst of triumphant trumpets, brilliantly juxtaposed against the track’s initial moody temperament.
Hollow Coves – Harder to Fake It
Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Australia, the indie folk duo Hollow Coves, comprising Ryan Henderson and Matt Carins, beautifully encapsulates their fervour for globe-trotting and capturing life’s myriad colours. Their music resonates with an intrepid spirit, a testament to their journeys, both literal and metaphorical. As a refreshing blend of travel enthusiasts and talented musicians, Hollow Coves has previously wowed their fans with their EP, “Blessings“, which debuted in June 2021. Their collective experiences and distinct Australian ethos have charmed many, earning them a revered spot in the indie folk scene.
Released on September 15, 2023, “Harder to Fake It” emerges as a robust and resonant single, marking the duo’s much-anticipated comeback. This track, brimming with vibrant energy and authentic sentiments, touches upon the essence of living life with genuine intent, breaking free from societal moulds, and pursuing one’s true dreams. With poignant lyrics that seem to have effortlessly flowed from a collaborative effort with fellow Australian artists Matt Corby and Alex Henrikkson, the song is a poignant reminder of the individual’s struggle in a conformist world. Melding racing rhythms with Hollow Coves’ signature harmonies, “Harder to Fake It” stands as a beacon for all those seeking their unique path amidst the noise of collective opinions.
Jaguar Sun – Feel It
Jaguar Sun, the brainchild of the prodigiously talented multi-instrumentalist Chris Minielly, stands as a testament to the intricate tapestry of sound that can emerge when influences from bands like STRFKR, Youth Lagoon, and Panda Bear meld together. Hailing from Ontario, Minielly does more than just compose music; he crafts entire soundscapes that seamlessly blend dreamy pop with experimental elements. Every pluck of a string, every hum of a synthesizer, and every whisper of his voice coalesce to draw listeners into a mesmerizing realm of music. This auditory magic is evident in his debut LP “This Empty Town”, slated for a summer 2020 release. This 8-track ensemble delves deep into the emotions associated with lost relationships and poignant hometown memories, establishing Minielly’s undeniable footprint in the alt/dream pop arena.
The track “Feel It” from Jaguar Sun is a masterclass in musical evolution. As a dream folk track, its roots start off slow, steadily gathering momentum and transforming with each note. The title itself is a testament to the song’s raw, emotive power – it’s too difficult to describe and too impossible not to feel. The racing, rhythmic vocals, cloaked in an entrancing melancholy, are undeniably captivating and contagious. This beautiful folk reflection consistently catches listeners off guard, wrapping them in a comforting embrace of sound. As the song progresses, the guitar assumes a more dominant role, guiding the listener to an emotive crescendo that stays with them long after the final note has faded.
Jorn ten Hoopen – Running in Circles
Jorn ten Hoppen is a multifaceted artist, embodying the roles of a guitarist, producer, and songwriter. While he’s been associated with a plethora of projects, his unique sound stands out, especially when he ventures solo. Drawing inspirations from a broad spectrum of artists and genres, Jorn’s music exudes a richness and depth that can only be derived from such a varied musical background. His journey with the band Tommy Moustache showcases his distinct penchant for Jazz, and although he’s a big admirer of instrumental music, his recent marks have seen him integrate his vocals. With a touch of nostalgia as a recurring theme, Jorn’s compositions have a timeless appeal that resonates with audiences across generations.
The latest offering from this musical maestro is “Circles”. A delightful single that promises to be a listener’s haven, it’s a captivating blend of the vibrant energy of 80’s pop, the soulful rhythms of North African music, and the earthy touch of folk. The track paints a vivid picture of a restless mind, with its lyrics portraying thoughts that zigzag erratically, reminiscent of the chaos one feels when trapped in repetitive behavioural patterns. Fresh, upbeat, and uniquely summery, “Circles” stands as a testament to Jorn’s ability to harmoniously weave diverse genres into a cohesive masterpiece. With its impending release on major streaming platforms, it’s a song that promises to leave an indelible mark on folk music enthusiasts.
Kid Bowery – EMILY, I
From the vibrant streets of the East Village, Kid Bowery emerges as a distinctive voice in the contemporary folk landscape. He cleverly coins his sound as ‘sleaze-folk’, a fusion that seamlessly blends the traditional essence of folk with its own audacious twist. Bowery’s compositions often oscillate between stark simplicity and richly layered sonic tapestries, intentionally tailored to emphasize his varied messages. His wit, as sharp as a dagger, weaves through his lyrics, making them memorable and compelling. Adding to this is his keen ability to blend psych and indie pop influences, creating sly hooks that stay with listeners long after the song has ended. His belief in his audience’s ability to both groove and ponder is a testament to his respect for them.
Released on the 8th of September, “EMILY, I” stands as a gorgeous testament to the emotional turmoil of love intermingling with profound confusion. The track, bearing an unmistakable indie folk essence, delves deep into the realm of visual metaphor, providing listeners with a vivid journey through the dissonance of passion confronted by misunderstanding. Likened to a torch song for those who have been manipulated or “gaslit”, the track resonates with raw emotion. Its singer-songwriter vibe promises an intimate experience, making it a fitting addition to a folk-centric compilation, showcasing the expansive range and depth of the genre.
Laura Galindo – Maybe in Time
Laura Galindo is a kaleidoscope of talent and emotions, emanating from the heart of Brooklyn. This gifted singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist wears many hats – from being an actor to a mesmerizing showman, Laura’s vast spectrum of skills is awe-inspiring. Her music, a hypnotic blend of pop, jazz, old-school R&B, and American standards, positions her between the sultry vibes of Amy Winehouse and the futuristic beats of Daft Punk. Alongside her main collaborator, Greg Tock, they carve a niche of experimental art-pop that is uniquely their own. Galindo’s distinctive sound is impulsive, evocative, and laden with layers of memories and fantasies, sung through her rock-tinged voice. Her narrative capabilities reflect tales from different timelines of herself, drawing listeners into a world of past, present, and even imagined experiences.
The track, “Maybe In Time“, is a great example of Laura’s unparalleled ability to weave emotions into melodies. It’s a memorable exploration of wounds that when opened, unexpectedly reveal remnants of love and hope. The songwriting process was as organic as its theme; Laura crafted most of it while biking, an element that seems to resonate in the free-flowing rhythm of the track. The song encapsulates the essence of looking beyond pain and discovering underlying emotions of hope and affection. Just as the lyrics navigate through memory and fantasy, listeners can anticipate being transported between realities of hurt and moments of solace. As a perfect fit for a folk-based compilation, “Maybe In Time” adds depth and emotion, underlining Laura Galindo’s overarching ambition: to deeply connect with her audience.
Leah Rye – Sit Down
Born as Lisa Rietveld in 1996, Leah Rye developed her piano skills from a young age and began formal lessons at thirteen, with her instructor encouraging her to pursue a music career. At fifteen, she started crafting her own songs as a means of emotional expression and understanding her surroundings. Her music often explores themes of contrast, including light and dark, solitude and togetherness, and delves into the complexities of human relationships. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of artists, such as Radiohead, Taylor Swift, and Lana Del Rey, Leah Rye‘s dreamy musical style effortlessly combines elements of pop noir and electronica.
“Sit Down” narrates not only Leah Rye‘s personal journey but also the experiences of countless young women in her midst. Sadly, every woman can empathize with the sensation of being belittled by men, whether it’s through catcalling on the street or the unwarranted intrusion of personal space. Such occurrences are pervasive and transcend geographical boundaries, even in places as seemingly safe as Amsterdam, as Leah poignantly reflects: “whenever I’m strolling by myself and entering a new road, I ALWAYS scan my environment to make sure there is somebody to back me up if something should happen“.
Miles Garber – All the Same
A name synonymous with high fashion and gritty skate parks, Miles Garber‘s meteoric rise in the modelling world is no secret. Discovered at a mere age of 15 while skateboarding near Fairfax High School, the Los Angeles native has graced the pages of prestigious magazines like Details and strutted on runways for the likes of Patrik Ervell and Band of Outsiders. His entrée into the glamorous world of modelling was nothing short of serendipitous. After a cheeky encounter with a scout from LA Models, what started as a dismissive gesture turned into a career-defining moment. Though initially sceptical, a subsequent scrape with mall security and his mother’s intervention inadvertently set him on a path where he would spend half his life in the limelight. His candid demeanour and self-proclaimed punk ethos set him apart, intertwining rebellion with high fashion in a dance only Miles could master.
Miles Garber’s transition from modelling to music is brilliantly showcased in his debut single, “All the Same“. Teaming up with Cutcraft Music Group, renowned for their collaboration with talents like Chet Faker and Prateek Kuhad, Garber is set to explore a musical journey that spans from punk-core influences to a mellow dad-core vibe. “All the Same“, a melancholic reflection on persistence amidst adversity, captures the emotions of repeated trials and the brink of giving in. Garber’s poignant lyrics and folk-infused melodies evoke a universal sentiment, making it a fitting choice for a folk-based compilation. With the anticipation of a new single in late September and a debut EP in October, Garber is gearing up to redefine his artistic identity.
Steven van Betten – Surrounded By All These Beautiful People I Love
Steven van Betten, hailing from the sun-soaked, rugged terrains of Blue Diamond, Nevada, is a Los Angeles-based songwriter whose music is a tapestry of stories woven with threads of everyday magic. With a childhood spent strumming guitars amidst the rocky canyons and seeking an oasis in the desert’s embrace, Steven’s songs are echoes of the American West and intimate human tales. His musical journey is not a solo endeavour; as the frontman of Fell Runner and co-founder of School of Song, he shares the stage with notable artists, crafting a sound that is both deeply rooted in tradition and daringly modern, with a touch of experimental brilliance reminiscent of artists like Luke Temple and Sufjan Stevens.
With its title echoing the warmth and camaraderie of close-knit relationships, “Surrounded By All of These Beautiful People I Love” is Steven’s latest melody that dances with joy and nostalgia. This track is not merely a set of notes and lyrics; it is a heartfelt ode to his friend Logan Hone, a beacon of musical and emotional support for Steven. Infused with the magnetic energy reminiscent of the Magnetic Fields, the song is a celebration of friendship and the inspiring tapestry of artistry that binds them together.
All these songs (and all previous songs featured in TIFU) are also featured on our folk playlist. Follow it on Spotify: