Emerging Folk – Steph Clifford, Brother Jax, Wonderlick

Steph Clifford instantly caught our attention with her latest single release, “cocoon,” a hauntingly beautiful tune about empathy and acceptance. The vocal performance in this song is exceptional. We love the up close, intimate style presented here, pairing wonderfully with slower paced backing instrumentation and ethereal overtones. The harmonies are perfectly reserved, complimenting the vocal melody in chorus sections by adding another splash of color into this soundscape.

Fans of Phoebe Bridgers or even Billie Eilish will connect with Steph’s warm, welcoming vocal timbre and masterful production quality. Be on the lookout for her debut EP release on September 1st, we look forward to hearing more from this massively talented, up and coming indie-folk sensation.

Hear it now on our Indie Folk 2025 Playlist.

You need to hear the latest single release, “The Conversationalist,” from emerging folk artist Brother Jax. The progressions and chord structures in this tune are next level. We hear jazz turnarounds in this one, merging old-school musical concepts with that modern indie-folk vibe, blending into something entirely fresh and unique to the genre. The vocal performance is powerful, the rhythm section is breathtaking, and the production is on point here.

We hear influences from artists like Ben Howard and Noah Kahan here, yet Brother Jax showcases a style that is entirely unique to him. Amidst an oversaturated music market, this artist instantly stands out amongst his contemporaries. If you are looking for a new sound in the modern indie-folk scene, go no further.

Hear him now on our Indie Folk 2025 Playlist.

Wonderlick is back with their latest album release, Wonderlick Goes to War, and we love the fourth track, “Popping Pills,” an introspective tune regarding substance abuse in modern society. The mix in this song is exceptional. We hear a myriad of instruments playing in unison throughout this one, ranging from piano tones to a string section and synths overtop that classic indie-folk backline. The vocals are authentic and raw here. The song features a choir of backup vocalists in each chorus section, propelling the groove forward and adding heaps of character to this soundscape.

Fans of Flipturn and Mt. Joy will find themselves right at home with this massively talented up and coming indie band. Do not miss out on the next indie sensation.

Hear it now on our Indie Folk 2025 Playlist.

Leave a comment