An indie folk-pop trio based in New York City, Morningsiders are new to our blog thanks to their folksy new EP Oddfellows.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Shervin Lainez

Oddfellows is a collection of traditional folk ballads which have been reimagined by the group. They’re quick to point out that they are not “exactly covers” due to the fact that their original versions are unknown. The songs’ evolving forms as they moved from Europe to Appalachia fascinated Morningsiders enough to adopt them and put them to record.

The EP begins with Two Sisters and we get an instant sense of the folksiness the collection is going to bring. Its story is beautifully articulated by the soft, harmonious vocals. They’re back by plucked strings and plenty of atmosphere.

What Will You Do? is a slow and contemplative number while Jubilee is bright and jaunty. Mary’s Dream burns soulfully during a gentle first verse before gradually growing in stature. Never Had But One True Love closes the EP in gentle and romantic style. It’s a track that will linger long after the record is over.

With this new collection, Morningsiders have made some classic tales their own, delivering each with wit, charm and musical prowess. If you like folk music with a modern twist, then their new EP is for you.

Morningsiders are Magnus Ferguson on vocals and guitar, Reid Jenkins on fiddle and vocals, and Robert French on piano. The trio met and formed at Columbia University.

Oddfellows is out now via Nettwerk. You can give it a listen below.