Modern Folklore – City Lights (2022)
Described by Sinusoidal Music as having an “…exquisite rock style”, five-piece Modern Folklore takes a unique slant on old-school indie-rock. Formed in 2020 when Dexter Carman and Josh Shepperd met at a local music venue, the South Dakota-based group are making waves in the Midwest music scene, as well as causing a stir far beyond their US borders. Along with Sinusoidal Music, Modern Folklore has been featured on Punk Head, Rock Era Magazine, Music Arena GH, and various playlists. The latest addition to their repertoire is the single ‘City Lights’.
Inspired by human stories and experiences, Modern Folklore explore human fragility and vulnerability in their new single ‘City Lights’. Taking a deeper look at the concept of fame and fortune in the big cities, ‘City Lights’ moves from the joy of leaving a small town to the excitement of change, but an ultimate disillusionment realising “you knew what it cost to shine that bright…”
When I read about the theme of ‘City Lights’, I was struck by that old “Friends fortune” idea. The one where you are certain moving to New York is perfect because you could sit in a coffee shop and hang out being cool, then you realise the only way you could survive in the “Friends world” is by having trust funds. It’s awesome in the beginning, but the reality is that large cities and finding fame come at an exorbitant and disheartening price. This idea is perfectly captured and expressed by Modern Folklore.
With a nod to pop-rock and indie-rock sounds of the 90s, Modern Folklore lies between Weezer, All American Rejects and Reel Big Fish – bouncy tunes with an indie-rock kick and poignant lyricism. For me, ‘City Lights’ has the same poetic poignancy as Reel Big Fish’s ‘I’m Drunk Again’ with its toe-tapping melody tinged by disappointment, despair and melancholia. Interestingly enough, it is these songs that have you swaying and singing along to their infectious sound.
This is my introduction to Modern Folklore, but I can be sure it will not be the last time I listen to their music. A highly recommended band, Modern Folklore is a shining gem in the sonic pool of pebbles.
For more from Modern Folklore check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
