If It's Too Loud...

In a year with so many great roots/folk records, it means that some of the best stuff out there needs to do something a little different to stand out, and Fern Maddie more than meets that expectation. Ghost Story is a full-length debut that feels stark and real in an era where it doesn't even feel like we can all agree on what "real" actually is. The effort here is one that leans into its roots in a unique way, feeling almost international in its presentation in that it feels like its from old England even though Maddie's from New England, and the result is a really gorgeous folk record with a ton going for it. Songs like "Hares on the Mountain" and "The Maid on the Shore" feel immediate and pure, and the whole record ultimately feels like it belongs. Fern Maddie deserves more praise for one of the better albums of the year, never mind one of the better folk efforts in recent times. Songs of note: "The Maid on the Shore,"...

Artist : Fern Maddie Album : Ghost Story Quick Thoughts : We missed this one from June, but my goodness is this great. Ghost Story feels like the near-perfect combination of Americana with Irish folk music, and the beauty of this record as a result cannot be understated. A Vermont native, songs like "Hare on the Mountain" or "The Maid on the Shore" will haunt you in all the right ways. Just a stellar listen across the board, do not miss out on this one. Songs of Note : "The Maid on the Shore," "Green Grass Growing," "Ca' the Yowes" Artist : Ghost Woman Album : Ghost Woman Quick Thoughts : Psych rock can be very hit-or-miss for me, and Ghost Woman hits. The sound is pure, the songwriting interesting, and the whole package is one that sticks with you long after it's done. I really enjoyed this listen, and if you're into this particular subset of indie music, give this a shot. Songs of Note : "All the Time,...