Folk

(Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Jewel)

Rachel Ries: Without a Bird

Hailing from South Dakota, classically trained singer, pianist, violinist and violist, Rachel Ries astonishes with her brand of music. Although this album is a couple of years old, it's still worth listening to. Without a Bird is Rachel's second album and composed of a folk jazzy sound with beautiful lyrics. It first came out back in 2007 under Rachel's own So Dak Records. Her first album, For You Only, was initially released back in 2005 and was completely recorded in a vintage analog system. This second album was also done in analog, thus exuding a beautiful vintage feel. It's the type of songs you'll want to play at home on a laid back evening, relaxing and just taking in the moment.

Giraffe: There Is No Devil

Carrying the moniker, Giraffe for this record, James Gardner releases his second compilation: There is No Devil. The album is a lush collection of folk, country alternative that's perfect for fans of artists like Bon Iver or similar soft folk singers. The songs resonate with acoustic guitars, beautiful singing and a catchy (sometimes odd) melody fit for most folk lovers. It's an album that could serve as a worthy background to a laid back afternoon where you just want some simple but engaging music to keep you company.

You Me and Apollo: Cards with Cheats

For moments when all you need is a sweet voiced singer with his guitar serenading your quiet afternoon; You Me and Apollo should make really good company. The guy behind this sonic ensemble is Brent Cowles. A pastor's son from Fort Collins, Cowles started writing and creating songs at the age of 14. Thanks to an early start, he developed a beautiful sound that resonates with both quiet and upbeat tempos, mesmerizing vocal work and skillful guitars. Simplicity and intrigue are both present in his work, something that makes you want to tune out the world and simply tune in to his songs.

The Willow and The Builder

The Willow & The Builder is an indie folk duo straight from Connecticut. Their music intertwines carefully sculpted melodies with gorgeous lyrics ready to wake up all of the winter spirits from the deep sleep. Released in October 2011, this 8 track self-titled album is filled with mesmerizing sounds of violin, trombone, viola, flute, trumpet, and masterfully sequenced drum additions, that should not be missed by anyone in need for some quality indie intervention!

The New Mystikal Troubadours: Second Spring

Made up of duo, Dave Gibson and Matt Persinzki; The New Mysitkal Troubadours will help complete your relaxing afternoon with its trippy and soothing folk sound. Second Spring is the second compilation from this Baltimore, Maryland duo.Their first self-titled album was released back in 2009 and garnered a positive response as well. Much like their first, this second album is mostly comprised of weird stringed instruments, trippy vocals and lovely (almost undecipherable) melodies.

Inch Chua: Wallflower

Inch Chua is a talented singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist (yep, she does it all) coming to us straight from Singapore. As an opening act for both Katy Perry & Vampire Weekend, and a first Singapore solo artist to be invited to the prestigious South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival in Austin, Texas, she has already established herself as a tough act to follow and a musician with a bright future. Her sound stands in the crossroads between early Gwen Stefani and Lisa Loeb, and her little creations will certainly make you sway left and right as you switch between the lovely melodies of Wallflower, the latest full album.

Salvador: Rite of Passage

There's hardly anything about Salvador online but sometimes you don't really need that much information to enjoy the music. Rite of Passage is a one man band headed by Omar Khan. A young acoustic folk pop musician who likes to sing about the quiet things in life. This short record is purely DIY. Omar produced, recorded, wrote the songs and played the instruments, save on percussion which was provided by Raphael Guirguis. The album is a warm, lo-fi acoustic folk record that makes me think of Elliott Smithand a subdued Bright Eyes in certain places. It's perfect for a quiet and relaxing afternoon where all that matters is your thoughts.

Entertainment for the Braindead: Roadkill

Entertainment for the Braindead is a moniker taken on by Julia Kotowski, a one woman band hailing from Cologne, Germany. Roadkill is the 5th full compilation from the singer/songwriter/instrumentalist. Known for her gorgeous folk music, this latest album is no exception. The record was born out of the artists desire to explore a new instrument, particularly the banjo. Playing with sweet reverie, her songs are filled with the beautiful strings of this country style instrument. Julia has been releasing music since 2007. Her first album Hypersomnia along with all her other releases are licensed under a Creative Commons and offered for free.