When you hear the word Folk, you may have a particular artist or picture come to mind. Be it Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell or perhaps a hippie with a guitar telling stories that can range from personal to political. While these artists and images helped shape the genre into it’s contemporary form, I’d like to offer a refreshing slap in your folk loving face. Meet the Fleet Foxes, folk music with guts, gumption and rock!
Even if you don’t necessarily think of yourself as a Folk fan, I implore you to consider this band and their self-described “baroque harmonic pop jams.” Formed by Robin Pecknold and Skyler Skjelset, who bonded through their mutual appreciation for folk icons such as Bob Dylan and Neil Young, they burst out of Seattle with their rich harmonies, tea-soaked reverb and rural images displayed on an impeccably crafted debut EP and subsequent LP.
Where their debut full length is bright and inviting, their follow up is a bit darker and deeper. Images of orchards and mountains contrast that of personal struggles to deal with success, love and loss. The music of Fleet Foxes is as lush as the landscapes they paint. An earnest approach to creativity is evident in each song, which only draws you in for a closer listen.
If you like: The Shins, Crosby Stills & Nash, Band of Horses, Simon & Garfunkel
Check out: Fleet Foxes (start with their self-titled debut album, continue to Helplessness Blues, and graduate to the Sun Giant EP)
Feeling brave: Blitzen Trapper, Grizzly Bear, Bon Iver, Iron & Wine, Animal CollectiveAI level: Beginner