Folk music is a genre that encompasses traditional and contemporary musical styles, typically characterized by the use of acoustic instruments and storytelling. The following musicians are considered some of the best modern folk musicians to listen to.
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Bon Iver – Bon Iver is an American folk band formed in 2006. Their music incorporates elements of folk, indie-rock, and electronica. The band’s breakthrough album “For Emma, Forever Ago” was released in 2007 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
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Fleet Foxes – Fleet Foxes is an American indie-folk band formed in 2006. The band’s music is characterized by their intricate vocal harmonies and lush instrumentation. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2008 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
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Sufjan Stevens – Sufjan Stevens is an American singer-songwriter known for his intricate and eclectic musical style. His music incorporates elements of folk, rock, and classical music. His most well-known album, “Illinois,” was released in 2005 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
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The Lumineers – The Lumineers are an American folk-rock band formed in 2002. The band’s music is characterized by their upbeat and energetic performances, as well as their use of traditional folk instruments such as the mandolin and accordion. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2012 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
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Lord Huron – Lord Huron is an American folk-rock band formed in 2010. The band’s music is characterized by their atmospheric and dreamy sound, as well as their use of storytelling in their lyrics. Their breakthrough album, “Lonesome Dreams,” was released in 2012 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
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The Tallest Man on Earth – The Tallest Man on Earth is the stage name of Swedish singer-songwriter Kristian Matsson. His music is characterized by his finger-picking acoustic guitar style and raw and emotional vocal delivery. His breakthrough album, “Shallow Grave,” was released in 2008 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
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First Aid Kit – First Aid Kit is a Swedish folk-pop duo formed in 2007. The band’s music is characterized by their close harmonies and storytelling lyrics. Their breakthrough album, “The Lion’s Roar,” was released in 2012 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
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José González – José González is a Swedish singer-songwriter known for his fingerpicking acoustic guitar style and intimate vocal delivery. His music incorporates elements of folk, rock, and classical music. His breakthrough album, “Veneer,” was released in 2003 and was widely acclaimed by critics.
These musicians are widely regarded as some of the best modern folk musicians to listen to, and are known for their unique musical styles and influences. Their music is highly recommended for fans of folk and contemporary music.
Sources:
- AllMusic (https://www.allmusic.com/)
- Pitchfork (https://pitchfork.com/)