Three wonderful folk singer songwriters to put on your winter playlist

Dan Challis and Stephen Grady – “Morning Light”
-If you’re a fan of folk duo harmonies, there’s a lot to like about this track from Dan Challis and Stephen Grady. The production is really clean on this track. I was impressed with it from first listen. There are some moments in it that feel a bit like some mid-century Laurel Canyon goodness. The repeated titular lyric about waiting for the new morning light is about the joy of a new beginning. The whole vibe of the track gives me that calm folk revival energy that is absolutely welcome on my playlists. I’m definitely happy to be featuring this chilled out groove for fans of James Taylor, Jackson Browne, and that whole era of folky pop music.

Owen Weston – “Higher Ground”
-Everything about this recording feels sweet and accessible. The guitar introduces the listener to the sound, but the atmospheric elements really create a unique flavor. I was already into the song, but the modulation around the 50 second mark really set it apart for me. I don’t know quite how to explain this, but I’m impressed with how the song sound both like a rooted folk song while also having some of these beautiful glowing pop production elements as well. The combination reminds me a bit like something Adam Melchor might produce (and that’s high praise from me). This one is a gem and, despite my best efforts to describe it, you just have to hear it to understand.

Chalice Garden – “idky”
-I’m not the brightest when it comes to trendy phrases these days, but I do think the abbreviation in the title here is “I don’t know why.” It could be “I don’t know you,” but I’m just trying to put together the lyrics with the title. In any event, what I like about the song is how truly unique it is. In a genre that feels like everything has already been invented (and maybe twice), this song has some cool production elements and an effect on the vocal that is just right. I don’t usually think of fuzzy guitars as distinctly folk, but it works here. There are some grungy and alt elements to this track, but it all comes together for a genuine storytelling style. Spin it; I bet you’ve never heard anything like it.

Image courtesy: Dan Challis IG