Folk songs aren't always songs that were written a hundred years ago. Great new folk songs are popping up all the time. Here's a look at some of the best new folk songs released in 2008. (see also Best Folk Music CDs of 2008)
"The Greatest Sum" - The Avett Brothers
© Ramseur Records
The Avett Brothers' second installment in their Gleam series saw them sharing a handful of really exquisite songs. But, the most moving among them was "The Greatest Sum." The tune sings about familial bonds and the familiarity and dedication that goes along with it.
"Cloud City" - Drew Emmitt
© Compass Records
Leftover Salmon frontman Drew Emmitt's latest solo effort, Long Road was a great record all around. However, it was his duetting with Ronnie McCoury on "Cloud City" that most caught my attention. The instrumental track is an exciting, moving, lightning fast bluegrass number, and Emmitt's skills as a mandolin picker really got a chance to shine.
"Feeling Sentimental" - The Waifs
© Compass Records
The Waifs are one of Australia's sharpest folk-rock troupes, and this tune—the final entry on their SunDirtWater CD—is quite possibly the sweetest love song I've heard in some time. The stripped-down accompaniment, along with the unforgettable melody and sleepy sentimentality make it a terrific throwback to yesteryear.
"White Winter Hymnal" - Fleet Foxes
© Sub Pop
Fleet Foxes are one of the most interesting bands coming out of my hometown of Seattle, and their brand of folk-rock focuses heavily on practically choral vocal harmonies. This cut from their first full-length record is an early favorite from the band.
"Highway" - Ferron and Bitch
© Short Story
When singer-songwriter Ferron teamed up with Bitch this year, it was an intriguing pairing. They wouldn't be a collaboration I would ever have imagined, but somehow the record they made together turned out to be one of the best of 2008. While the CD collected some of Ferron's greatest tunes, "Highway" (a Bitch composition) was one of the most interesting moments on the disc.
