The Best Indie Folk Music of 2018

A comprehensive guide to the best indie folk music of 2018. Discover new artists and albums that are sure to become favorites.

The Best Indie Folk Albums of 2018

As the world of indie folk music continues to grow, so does the number of great Albums being released each year. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite albums from 2018, featuring a wide range of artists from established veterans to exciting newcomers.

1. The Decemberists – I’ll Be Your Girl
2. Fleet Foxes – Crack-Up
3. Iron & Wine – Beast Epic
4. John Prine – The Tree of Forgiveness
5. Ryley Walker – Deafman Glance
6. William Tyler – Goes West
7. Mt. Eerie – Now Only
8. Teenage Fanclub – Here

The Best Indie Folk Songs of 2018

As the year comes to a close, we take a look back at the best indie folk songs of 2018. From Fleet Foxes to Lord Huron, these were the tracks that got us through another year.

“I Will Be,” Mount Eerie
Phil Elverum’s first album since the death of his wife was a devastatingly beautiful listen from start to finish, but it was this opening track that struck the deepest chord. With its simple piano melody and heart-wrenching lyrics (“And now you are an empty room / I never liked that room”), “I Will Be” is a powerful gut punch of a song, one that hits even harder when you know the backstory behind it.

“Angels,” The Paper Kites
On their latest album, Twelvefour, Australia’s The Paper Kites explore the loneliness of the late-night hour with this gorgeous track. Built around a simple guitar riff and delicate vocals, “Angels” is a stunning example of how less can sometimes be so much more.

“Fleck,” Dude York
Dude York’s debut album Sincerely was one of our favorite releases of 2018, and this catchy little number was one of the reasons why. With its chiming guitars andfeel-good chorus (“I’m feeling alright / I’m feeling A-OK”), “Fleck” is an instant indie folk classic.

The Best Indie Folk Artists of 2018

The best indie folk music of 2018 comes from a wide range of artists, from brand new up-and-comers to seasoned veterans. There’s something for everyone in this list, with a little something extra for fans of the genre.

Topping our list is Apollo Sunshine, who released their self-titled debut album back in 2006. The band has been relatively quiet since then, but they returned in a big way this year with their new album, “Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space.” The album is a stunning work of art, combining elements of folk, pop, and rock into one cohesive whole. Apollo Sunshine is a must-listen for any fan of indie folk music.

Next up is Iron & Wine, who released their sixth studio album, “Weed Garden,” earlier this year. The album is a return to form for the band, who had strayed away from their folk roots in recent years. “Weed Garden” is full of beautiful acoustic melodies and introspective lyrics, making it one of the best releases of the year.

Other notable releases include Of Monsters and Men’s “Fever Dream,” which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart, and First Aid Kit’s “Ruins,” which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Folk Album. 2018 has been a great year for indie folk music, and these are just some of the highlights.