Five Best New Wave Folk Albums

Five Best New Wave Folk Albums
Words and Picks by Perry Fish

Barefoot, covered in temporary tattoos, body paint, and dirt, I grew up attending annual bluegrass and roots music festivals since before I could walk.  There is nothing more freeing than coming together with a mix of friends, family and complete strangers to simply enjoy the rustic sound of folk music.  Since its first identification in the 19^th century, folk music has come a long way, reaching a full revival in the 1960’s.  In the early 70’s, folk music continued to evolve through music legends like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and Joni Mitchell.  Which brings us to now, the “new wave” of folk music.  Electric banjo, new takes on timeless hymns, and more wailing than ever before, makes these indie-folk albums unique…and well, pretty darn amazing!

Old Crow Medicine Show – O.C.M.S
Old Crow Medicine Show is about as close to contemporary folk music as you can get.  The wide range of instruments from banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and harmonica really set a relaxed tone that mimics the old-time sound of classic roots music.  Their first album is a personal favorite of mine, because it includes the infamous single, “Wagon Wheel”.  Originally written by Bob Dylan and titled “Rock Me Mama, Wagon Wheel” remained unfinished until OCMS wrote the additional versus.  As appropriate, it is the final song on the album, saving the best for last.

Mumford and Sons – Sigh No More
Where do I even begin?  Sigh No More is inarguably an amazing collection of songs that introduced the world to the unbelievably talented, English folk rock band, Mumford and Sons.   It would be difficult for me to pick a favorite track from this album…so I wont.  Even so, the roaring vocals of “White Blank Page” and the hopeful and haunting melody of “Awake My Soul” are unmatchable to anything I have ever heard.

The Decemberists – Picaresque
I was introduced to The Decemberists my senior year of High School when I was gifted their latest release at the time, The Crane Wife.  Being the sucker that I am for unique things, I was immediately drawn to the extraordinary voice of the lead singer, Colin Meloy.  Based out of Portland, Oregon, this inimitable group produces folk infused tracks consistent throughout Picaresque and their other 6 albums.  In this album specifically, The Decemberists take the story telling aspect of folk music to a whole new level with the over 8 minute long track, “The Mariner’s Revenger”.  This song tells the story of a young man who has dedicated his life to avenging his mother after she died of a broken heart.  By land and by sea, to the belly of a whale, he doesn’t give up until he comes face to face with the man who destroyed his family.

The Crane Wives – Safe Ship Harbored
Fairly new to the folk music scene, the dual female fronted band, The Crane Wives,  are already building a big following with their big sound.  I first heard the band live at one of my favorite music festivals, Wheatland, in Remus, Michigan.  I was pleasantly surprised by their lively instrumentals and harmonizing vocals.  Their first album Safe Ship Harbored also shares the name of their first single, a strong showcase of their refreshing talent.

The Lumineers – The Lumineers
Well known for their single “Ho Hey”, The Lumineers are one of my favorite new wave folk bands.  Their sound reminds me of a mix between Bob Dylan and the echoed chanting of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic zeros.  This album would be perfect for a relaxing Sunday at home or better yet, a road trip to your favorite music festival!