Three new tracks that bring out the best of traditional folk while adding a bit of modern flair – Ear To The Ground Music

Cole Swensen – “less than what i need”
-If you’ve been around my coverage at all in the past year, you’ve seen me talk about Cole Swensen… a LOT. To be honest, I feel like I’m almost running out of ways to describe how much I like his sound. It’s calm, peaceful, and deeply emotional every time. This track is no exception, bringing a thoughtful reflection on what it’s like being in a relationship that isn’t working. There’s a genuine emotional depth here that’s sure to speak to a lot of folks. The gentle acoustic guitar works well, but it’s Swensen’s characteristic vocal that really pulls the listener in on this one. The poetic, almost spoken-word plaintive style feels like talking with a dear friend. Maybe that’s just what it is. What a gift.

The Burney Sisters – “Only Living”
-I’m not sure exactly how many times I’ve featured The Burney Sisters, but it’s quite a few. Click play on this song and you’ll hear why; they have it all. The traditional folk/roots country style from the guitar works well, but it’s the divine vocals that win me over every time. I’m always a fan of sibling harmony, but it’s really something special in this recording. There’s a bluesy rootedness to the melodic structure that I adore on this one. The dynamics on the bridge — complete with a beautiful crescendo and soaring vocal — really makes this one stand out. It’s well worth the time to sit back and enjoy this wonderful tune.

Alexa Rose – “Where the Magic Lives”
-There’s a delightful genre blend on this song that puts a smile on my face. Rose brings together elements of folk, roots country, and something a bit more modern that I can’t quite put my finger on. The fiddle and banjo dance together nicely for a timeless energy, but it’s really Rose’s vocal that sets the sincere mood on the track. The rhythm of the track moves along nicely, keeping the listener engaged with a steady beat and meaningful lyrical work. The line about wanting to reset and “visit with eternity” feels like such a magical, creative sentiment. I’ve often thought about projecting eternity forward, but I never thought about it going backwards; what an amazing thought… and it sure goes down smooth with this instrumentation and vocal. This is a treat.

Image courtesy: Cole Swensen IG