Laura Marling

In 2007, at only the age of 16, this British native skyrocketed to fame in the U.K. and overseas as well.  She is quite adept at writing accessible folk songs that appeal to the masses, using folk-friendly instrumentation -- violin, banjo, mandolin -- along with an eye for slick production technique not usually found in the genre.  She is most often compared to fellow Brits Johnny Flynn and Mumford & Sons, who perform similarly styled music.  In recent years, Britain has really excelled in the folk/bluegrass department, offering up many talented artists that have been welcomed warmly here in the States.  Without a doubt, Laura Marling is the leading woman and most effective at establishing a large and eclectic fan base.  Whether you love her or not, we can all be thankful that Britain has finally moved past the tired antics and antiquated tunes of Pete Doherty.  Sorry Carl, there will nobody at the reunion.

Albums:  I Speak Because I Can (2010), Alas I Cannot Swim (2008)

Tracks:  Devil's Spoke, Rambling Man, Goodbye England, Ghosts, You're No God, My Manic and I

Sharon Van Etten

This singer-songwriter nurtures simple melodies and chord progressions into melancholy masterpieces with her haunting, yet captivating voice.  Confident but reserved, her live shows are where she really shines.  In fact, this is why I have attached two(!) videos to this post, both of which are her performing in the flesh.  She is truly an amazing talent, and quite productive too -- she has released three albums in the past three years.  Here are the recs:

Albums:  Epic (2010), Because I Was In Love (2009)

Tracks: A Crime, Peace Sign, One Day, For You, Consolation Prize, Love More*

*This track is simply beautiful -- there's harmonium, effortless crooning, and a plethora of heart-wrenching suspensions.  If this song makes you feel anything, then I'm convinced you have a soul. If not, you are probably the very reason Sarah McLachlan does commercials with puppies.

Tristen

Based in Nashville, Tristen Gaspadarek focuses on lyrics and melody first (then fills in chords) to successfully engage the listener with subtle word play and catchy hooks. Addictive folk-pop gems result, and I have nothing but praise for her debut LP, Charlatans at the Garden Gate.  Enjoy!

Albums: Charlatans at the Garden Gate (2011)

Tracks: Eager for Your Love, Matchstick Murder, Battle of the Gods, Baby Drugs. 

 

In the Beginning...

Over the past several months, I've received several requests to send along music recs to those whose playlists have become increasingly stale. I usually have no idea where to begin, and as a result, I engage in an earnest but ineffective attempt to appease my friends with some rather arbitrary amalgam of new artists. Frequently, I'll just send along a hodgepodge of 100+ tracks simply titled "PL2010" or "PL2011." Yes, I can do better. Also, I need a new way to procrastinate. Win-win.

I've decided to start posting music recommendations directly to my fb wall (And now this blog!). I'll try to have weekly "categories" (genre-like and probably just as contrived) to add some measure of organization. I'll post a representative video/song of an artist along with some suggested high-yield albums and/or songs. If you end up falling in love with an artist, just shoot me an email and I can help you find some of the more rare or obsolete albums. I will do my best to keep the recommendations recent and relevant (<1 year old), except if otherwise indicated (e.g. 1970s power pop).

So, here goes... Week 1: Female Singer-Songwriter

jk. his time will come eventually.