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.
Current Swell – “Peacekeeper”
Current Swell is a band that has long mastered the art of connecting deeply with their audience. Hailing from Vancouver Island, this indie rock quartet has been crafting their unique blend of West Coast rock for over a decade. With Scott Stanton leading the way on vocals and guitar, and founding member Louis Sadava back on bass, they’ve maintained their dynamic sound while evolving with each release. Their music resonates with fans across continents, from sold-out tours in Brazil to packed venues in Europe, all fueled by their ability to explore profound themes such as love, life’s transitions, and the pursuit of meaning. Their latest album, When to Talk and When to Listen, speaks to their growth, showcasing a sound both intimate and bold, and firmly planting them as a staple in the indie rock scene.
Their latest single, “Peacekeeper”, continues this legacy with its laid-back grooves and lyrical depth. Produced by Gus Van Go, the track delves into the complexities of maintaining harmony in relationships, sometimes at the expense of honesty. With its West Coast rock vibe, “Peacekeeper” balances a dreamy, almost wistful atmosphere with a hint of frustration. The chorus, “If you’re feeling good, I’m feeling good too, mama”, captures the delicate act of keeping things calm, even when tensions simmer beneath the surface. It’s a reflection of the push and pull in love, wrapped in the infectious melodies that define Current Swell’s signature sound.
Driftwood – “Get it Done”
Driftwood is a band rooted in the rich musical soil of Upstate New York, with a sound that defies easy classification. From humble beginnings in Joe Kollar’s parents’ basement to performing at Levon Helm’s iconic barn, their journey has been marked by a fearless evolution in sound. Founding members Joe Kollar and Dan Forsyth, along with violinist Claire Byrne, bassist Joey Arcuri, and drummer Sam Fishman, have crafted a unique brand of folk-rock that is deeply tied to their bluegrass origins while constantly pushing boundaries. Their latest album, “December Last Call“, captures the band’s evolving essence. The self-produced album embraces a raw, experimental energy, offering listeners a blend of driving rhythms, electric guitars, and soulful acoustic moments that mirror the complexities of life.
The single “Get it Done” is an emotional whirlwind, recorded in the immediate aftermath of a breakup, making it one of the most vulnerable and unfiltered tracks in Driftwood‘s discography. Originally intended as a standout track on their last album, the song’s journey took an unexpected detour when it was picked up for the award-winning short film Vital Instruments. Mixed by the Lumineers’ former engineer, the song carries a sense of urgency and rawness, both in its composition and its delivery. As the film’s public release approaches this Fall, the timing couldn’t be better for the release of this heart-wrenching track. “Get it Done” delivers the same gripping intensity that Driftwood fans have come to expect, making it a fitting accompaniment to the cinematic world it now inhabits.
Kurran Karbal – “Happening for Me”
Kurran Karbal has taken a transformative journey in both life and music. Emerging from the chaos of personal struggles, including a cancer diagnosis and the end of a significant relationship, Karbal turned inward and sought solace through spirituality. His travels to India, specifically in Punjab, were a geographical shift and a spiritual rebirth. He embraced meditation and isolation, which became the fertile ground for his creativity. Having previously made his mark with the band Kurran and the Wolfnotes and the project Munkey Junkey, he now steps forward as a solo artist, pouring his life experiences into his upcoming album, “Dumb and Dhamma“.
The track “Happening for Me” captures the essence of Karbal’s post-recovery spirit, merging DIY indie folk with a sense of spiritual release. Written during his Vipassana meditation retreats, the song feels personal and universal, reflecting on the hardships life throws at you and the sense of acceptance that can follow. It’s a melodic anthem of resilience, marked by soft guitar strums and Karbal’s raw, emotive vocals. A companion to his album’s more introspective moments, the track speaks of healing, of learning to find peace amid chaos. With a style that may remind listeners of Bon Iver or Sufjan Stevens, Karbal effortlessly merges his sonic past with a fresh, meditative depth, making “Happening for Me” a great marker of his artistic rebirth.
Luke De-Sciscio – “Spinning”
Luke De-Sciscio is a folk singer from the UK whose music journey has been shaped by raw, unfiltered expression. He began writing songs aboard a boat with no electricity or heat, and from those humble beginnings, he’s built a catalogue of 15 full-length albums, each a testament to his relentless pursuit of truth. Eschewing the polish of studio perfection, De-Sciscio prefers recording in a single take, capturing the vulnerability and immediacy of his emotions. His fanbase has grown steadily, drawn to his authenticity and deep lyrical insight. Unafraid of imperfection, his songs offer a rare intimacy, a space where his voice and emotions flow unguarded, allowing listeners to experience each moment as it was first felt.
His latest track, “Spinning” is an immaculate reflection of a life-changing moment—the birth of his daughter, Theodora. Written and recorded during the first six weeks of fatherhood, the song captures the overwhelming emotions that come with becoming a parent. De-Sciscio’s signature lo-fi, bedroom studio aesthetic lends the track a raw, delicate quality, making every note and lyric feel like a personal confession. With ethereal melodies and heartfelt lyricism, “Spinning” invites listeners into his world, one that has been forever transformed by the arrival of his child. It’s an honest and tender tribute, brimming with the awe and wonder of new life, and stands as a central piece of his new album, “Theo”, which encapsulates the joy, fear, and love of this new chapter.
Michael Day – “Nan and Pop’s house”
Michael Day is a Perth Hills-born singer/songwriter known for his evocative blend of alt-folk music, where introspective lyrics meet soulful soundscapes. His deeply personal songwriting explores themes of family, loss, and longing, inviting listeners to reflect on life’s deeper meanings. With influences from indie folk giants like Mumford and Sons and The Lumineers, Day’s music weaves intricate guitar and banjo melodies with heartfelt vocals, creating a moody, reflective atmosphere. His sound, often tinged with existential themes, leaves listeners pondering life’s complexities while offering a subtle hope. This unique style earned him a semi-finalist spot in the 2023 International Songwriting Contest, further cementing his place in the folk music scene.
“Nan and Pop’s House” is a beautifully upbeat contemplation on a cherished memory that many of us share—the close bond with our grandparents. It reflects on the warmth and safety they provided during childhood, as well as the insecurities we faced growing up, which their presence helped us overcome. Through vivid storytelling, Michael Day captures that feeling of being gently guided through life’s uncertainties, with his Nana and Pop offering the kind of comfort that only grandparents can. Musically, the track is anchored by a powerful guitar that mirrors this emotional journey. It transitions seamlessly from tender, contemplative strumming to bursts of energy, much like the steady, reassuring touch of a grandparent who knows just when to soothe and when to invigorate. At times, the guitar feels like a gentle pat on the back, and at others, a vigorous push forward, symbolizing the love and wisdom grandparents impart in shaping who we become. It’s a tender yet dynamic folk anthem that celebrates the lasting influence of family.
Olivia Reid – “Love Don’t Leave”
Olivia Reid is a singer-songwriter hailing from New York City whose voice carries an emotional weight that feels like a gentle embrace. With a knack for storytelling, her music blends indie folk sensibilities with subtle electronic textures, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and expansive. Having collaborated with artists such as Kidswaste and Jae Luna, Reid’s artistry has touched hearts worldwide. Her creative endeavors extend beyond music, with ventures into screenwriting and podcasting, where she explores the depths of human experience and creativity. After the release of her critically acclaimed debut EP, Earth Water, Olivia has continued to evolve her sound, with her recent singles garnering praise from major outlets, setting the stage for her forthcoming project in 2023.
Her latest single, “Love Don’t Leave”, is a poignant reflection on love’s ability to transcend time, space, and even language. Written during a quiet retreat in Burdag, Poland, the track captures the essence of deep connection, even amidst life’s complexities. Olivia’s tender lyrics and soothing melody evoke a universal feeling of reassurance, reminding us that love, in its purest form, can weather any storm. The campfire setting where the song was first played, with voice memos incorporated into the track, adds an organic authenticity, giving listeners a glimpse into the spontaneous magic of the moment. The song’s gentle folk backdrop, paired with its heartfelt message, makes it a timeless addition to any folk compilation.
Stefan J. Selbert – “Sugar Peas”
Stefan J. Selbert brings a unique perspective to the indie folk scene, rooted in his life as a cattle rancher in Los Alamos, California. His music reflects the vast landscapes he calls home, blending the rugged beauty of rural life with introspective and tender lyricism. With a foot in both the grounded reality of ranching and the ethereal world of songwriting, Selbert crafts songs that feel authentic, full of quiet wisdom and a connection to the natural world. His voice, though humble, carries a sincerity that resonates with listeners, evoking the timeless tradition of folk music’s most cherished storytellers.
In “Sugar Peas”, Selbert creates a delicate, introspective journey that pulls at the heartstrings. The track is defined by its warm, dream-like folk atmosphere, with vocals that feel both fragile and steadfast, perfectly balanced to invite deep reflection. The lyrical depth shines through, offering a thoughtful meditation on inner emotions and quiet moments of clarity. It’s a song that doesn’t overwhelm but rather lingers softly in the mind, allowing listeners to connect deeply with their own feelings. With its melancholic tone and subtle beauty, “Sugar Peas” feels like a gentle whisper of the soul, offering comfort and introspection in equal measure.
All these songs (and all previous songs featured in TIFU) are also featured on our folk playlist. Follow it on Spotify: