Nathan Evans Fox – “Some things are coming back again”
-In a world where country music is pop music, this feels more authentically country than anything I’ve heard in a minute. Fox writes with a sincerity that feels like the genuine article. The relaxing guitar and organ work have a timelessness to them that I adore. The phrasing, actually, might be my favorite part of the whole song. Also, anyone who can work Porter Wagoner into a song is worth your time. Fox’s melody, sincerity, and lyrics are positively engaging. You call it what you want; Americana, country, folk… it simply doesn’t matter; this is a great song.
Scalawag – “Nobody leaves”
-Some folks might not be familiar with the term “scalawag.” This was a phrase used in the wake of the American Civil War for white southerners who corroborated with Union officials at the end of the war. It was intended as an insult and often carried connotations of being a rascal or a traitor. History lessons aside, this piece of music is of a particularly poignant brand of folk. It is melancholy and captivating; there’s a sense of being stuck in a place with no escape. The lead vocal has a lonesome, forlorn sullen quality to the way it delivers the lyrics. This is the kind of song that can feel like a bit of a drag, but it’s deeply emotional and worth expressing the spirit of empathy toward the lead character. “Like it or not we all have those days where we hurt those we love and need to part ways.” Wow. This is real.
KOAH – “Stars”
-The cathartic acoustic work here feels like a satisfying brand of folk music. It’s difficult for us to find a style that stands out, but the calming layered fingerpicking definitely feels special for us on this one. The lyrics also point to a hopefulness of a relationship that might happen. Although it’s just a dream at this stage, the lead character feels dreamily hopeful that things will pan out. The energy of the track doesn’t fit neatly into any folk categories right now (which I love), but it certainly connects with the listeners. A lot of our readers who like acoustic music are going to find a lot to like about this track from KOAH. Give it a spin, friends!
Image courtesy: Scalawag IG
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