Three new folk tracks that show how the traditions of the genre are alive and well

Stefan J. Selbert – “Lend a Hand”
-Everything from the beautiful acoustic guitar to the quality lead vocal make this song stand out in a crowded folk scene. This is the type of sound I’m talking about when I tell people I “listen to folk music.” It captures the heart and spirit of rootsy folk music like Simon and Garfunkel, while still having a modern panache that really makes it feel fresh and new. Even the unconventional timing in sections, especially the instrumental break, keeps the listener engaged from start to finish. Lyrically it’s about how time continues moving and how important it is to slow down and appreciate being with someone. It’s a wonderful, mindful tune with love at the center. What’s not to like?

Calm Canopy and Sylvia Lily – “Flow”
-If acoustic music is your jam, you’ve come to the right place. It’s kind of what we love to write about and artists like Calm Canopy fit right in that niche for us. This particular track, with the dulcet tones of Sylvia Lily, makes for a feel-great tune and some wonderfully charming harmonies. The string work jangles just right, while the lyrics invite the listeners to think about what it means to fall in love again. It’s a good one to just put on and ease into the sway of it all and let loose.

Amistat – “Still Believe”
-The way this track was composed, it builds tension from the opening. The chill piano does a good job of making the listener feel welcome and the vocal harmonies are excellent… but that atmospheric style in the background makes it feel like you’re going somewhere. Once the chorus takes off, the song rewards the listener for sitting in that tension. The mix of imagery in the lyrics make it seem like it could be a spiritual song or a love song… so I guess that’s up to the interpretation of the listener. But what I’ll say is that the soaring vocal on the chorus with the horns in the background is absolutely OUTSTANDING! This is such an amazing feel-good song.