For many, folk music evokes nostalgic images of the ’60s counterculture, where artists like Bob Dylan were “Blowin’ in the Wind,”Donovan sought to “Catch the Wind,”and Scott McKenzie encouraged listeners to adorn themselves with flowers before heading to “San Francisco.”With Peter, Paul & Mary singing about “Leavin’ on a Jet Plane,”and Simon & Garfunkel evoking the haunting “Sound of Silence,”it is easy to see why folk can feel like a journey back in time.
However, modern folk music transcends these vintage clichés. Since the start of the 2000s, the genre has experienced a renaissance, infused with fresh energy from a new generation of artists. This revitalized folk movement is characterized by raw, storytelling lyrics and eclectic blends with country and rock genres, creating an evolving sound that captures both tradition and modernity.
1. The Avett Brothers – Emotionalism (2007)
No “Die Die Die” In This Band Of Brothers Breakthrough
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The Avett Brothers from North Carolina gained widespread acclaim with their 2007 album, Emotionalism. Comprising brothers Scott and Seth Avett, and cellist Joe Kwon, this album spotlighted their remarkable artistry. Blending acoustic guitar, banjo, and piano, the album showcases their enchanting harmonies and engaging melodies. Standout tracks like “The Weight of Lies”and “The Ballad of Love and Hate”balance sensitivity with upbeat tunes like “Paranoia In B Major,”marking the band’s emergence as pivotal players in modern folk music.
2. Stephen Wilson Jr. – Son of Dad (2023)
A “Mighty Beast”Of Folk Country Breakout
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Emerging from Indiana, Stephen Wilson Jr. released his debut album, Son of Dad, in 2023, inspired by personal tragedy and a passion for songwriting. Influenced by greats like Johnny Cash, his music merges folk, country, and rock, notably featuring tracks such as “Year to Be Young 1984.”Dive into his heartfelt narratives in songs like “Holler from the Holler”and “Grief is Only Love,”which reflect his personal journey of loss, hope, and love, creating an album that’s both poignant and inspiring.
3. Mumford & Sons – Sigh No More (2009/2010)
“Sigh No More”With This Banjo Movement Revival
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Mumford & Sons burst onto the scene with their 2010 album Sigh No More, which became a defining moment for modern folk music. This UK-based band captured the essence of folk with their energetic banjo-infused sound, reminiscent of ’60s joy yet deeply relevant to contemporary themes. With powerful tracks like “Little Lion Man”and “Awake My Soul,”they paved the way for the folk revival, influencing countless artists with their distinctive style.
4. The Lumineers – The Lumineers (2012)
Folk Rock’s “Stubborn Love”Of An Intro
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The Lumineers’ self-titled debut album in 2012 further augmented the modern folk movement initiated by Mumford & Sons. With heartfelt harmonies and evocative lyrics, tracks like “Ho Hey”and “Stubborn Love”resonated with audiences and exemplified the tender side of folk rock. The band has secured their place in the industry, contributing significantly to the evolution of folk music with their earnest storytelling and endearing melodies.
5. Bon Iver – For Emma, Forever Ago (2007/2008)
The “Lump Sum”Of Love Lost On This Debut
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Bon Iver, the musical project of Justin Vernon, emerged from a deeply personal place. Following a tumultuous period in his life, Vernon retreated to his father’s cabin, where he created the hauntingly beautiful For Emma, Forever Ago. Using falsetto vocals and stripped-back instrumentation, the album explored themes of heartbreak and introspection with tracks like “Skinny Love”and “Flume,”establishing a new, experimental edge in folk music.
6. The Lone Bellow – The Lone Bellow (2013)
“Bleeding Out”This LP’s Folky Feelings
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The Lone Bellow formed when Zach Williams channeled his emotions following a personal tragedy. After relocating to New York City, he teamed up with musicians Brian Elmquist and Kanene Pipkin, introducing the world to their debut album, The Lone Bellow. This work embodies a blend of Southern-inflected, gospel-tinged folk with heartfelt tracks like “Green Eyes and a Heart of Gold,”showcasing their ability to weave narratives of love, loss, and healing.
7. Justin Townes Earle – Harlem River Blues (2010)
Feeling The “Wanderin'”In This Country/Folk-Rock Record
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Justin Townes Earle’s 2010 album, Harlem River Blues, reflects his challenges and triumphs, seamlessly blending folk roots with elements of rock, blues, and gospel. The album narrates the life of a country boy navigating the hustle of New York City and showcases Earle’s soulful storytelling in tracks like “One More Night in Brooklyn”and “Workin’ for the MTA,”solidifying his legacy in the folk genre despite his untimely passing.
8. The Head and the Heart – The Head and the Heart (2011)
“Down In The Valley”Of A Timeless, Inspiring Folk Debut
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The Head and the Heart made waves with their 2011 self-titled debut. Infusing folk rock with energetic performances and heartfelt lyricism, they struck a chord with listeners through songs like “Rivers & Roads”and “Lost In My Mind.”They exemplified the spirit of modern folk by engaging deeply with emotion and authenticity, reminding us of the genre’s capacity for connection and expression.
9. Edward Sharpe And The Magnetic Zeroes – Up From Below (2009)
The Hippie Heart Of This Album’s “Home”
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Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeroes distinguished themselves from their contemporaries with their playful, hippie-inspired debut album, Up From Below. Filled with infectious anthems like “Home”and “Janglin,”their charm lies in the simplicity and joy of making music together. The band’s approach evokes the spirit of community and celebration, reminiscent of classic folk ideals while still feeling fresh and modern.
10. Noah Kahan – Stick Season (2022)
This Folk-Rocking Album Has A Little “Everything, Everywhere”
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Noah Kahan’s 2022 album, Stick Season, beautifully encapsulates the transitioning seasons that define life in the Northeast. Through reflective storytelling in songs like “Dial Drunk”and “Homesick,”Kahan captures a universal desire for connection during challenging times, highlighting the impact of the pandemic on personal growth. Collaborating with artists from various genres, he illustrates the power of folk-rock to resonate deeply and fill arenas even in a digital age.
11. Tyler Childers – Purgatory (2017)
“Born Again”In The Flames Of Country Folk
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Tyler Childers emerged as a captivating voice in modern folk with his 2017 album, Purgatory, produced by Sturgill Simpson. Childers’ blend of country, folk, and bluegrass articulates heartfelt narratives from a blue-collar perspective, discussing themes of hardship and daily struggle in songs like “Banded Clovis”and “Born Again.”His authenticity resonates with listeners, solidifying his place in the modern folk landscape.
12. Dawes – Nothing Is Wrong (2011)
“How Far We’ve Come”Into Good Folk Rock
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Dawes, led by brothers Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith, made significant contributions to folk-rock with their 2011 album Nothing Is Wrong. This album, characterized by smooth melodies and thoughtful lyrics, successfully captures the essence of the genre without overwhelming the listener. Tracks like “A Little Bit Of Everything”and “Time Spent in Los Angeles”offer a glimpse into the modern folk revival, proving that the genre remains relevant and exciting.