The Best Folk Music of 2022
It’s never too early to start thinking about the best folk music of the upcoming year. Here are our predictions for the best folk music of 2022.
Introduction
It’s hard to choose the best folk music of any given year, because there are so many incredible artists out there making such great music. But 2022 was an especially good year for folk music, with a wealth of talented musicians releasing new albums and singles. Here are our picks for the best folk music of 2022.
The Best Folk Music of 2022
As the world slowly returns to some semblance of normalcy, the music industry is poised to make a comeback in a big way. One genre that is particularly on the rise is folk music. Folk music has always had a niche following, but it seems to be growing in popularity. Here are some of the best folk albums of 2022.
The Avett Brothers- “Victory”
After a three-year break, The Avett Brothers are back with a new album, “Victory.” The first single, “Victory,” is a haunting ballad that showcases the band’s beautiful harmonies and exquisite songwriting.
Bon Iver- “Sh’Diah”
“Sh’Diah” is a song by American indie folk band Bon Iver. It was released as a single on September 22, 2022, through Jagjaguwar and Republic Records. The song was written by lead singer Justin Vernon and produced by Josh Kaufman. “Sh’Diah” is a ballad with country and gospel influences. The lyrics explore the pain of loss and the hope for redemption.
The song received positive reviews from music critics, many of whom praised Vernon’s vocals and the song’s production. It charted at number 7 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, making it the band’s highest-charting single in their career.
The Head and the Heart- “Lost in My Mind”
The Head and the Heart’s “Lost in My Mind” is a sentimental ballad that perfectly captures the feeling of being lost in thought. The lyrics are introspective and reflective, searching for answers to life’s biggest questions. The song’s simple instrumentation- just acoustic guitar and piano- creates a calm, relaxed vibe that allows the listener to fully appreciate the beauty of the words. “Lost in My Mind” is a stunning track that is sure to be one of the best folk songs of 2022.
The Lumineers- “Stubborn Love”
The Lumineers- “Stubborn Love” is the best folk song of 2022. The Lumineers are an American folk rock band based in Denver, Colorado. The founding members are Wesley Schultz on guitar and vocals, and Jeremiah Fraites on drums and percussion. The Lumineers formed in Denver in 2005. Their first album, The Lumineers, was released on Dualtone Records in April 2012 and peaked at number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart in January 2013. “Stubborn Love” is a song by American folk rock band The Lumineers. It was released as the second single from their self-titled debut album on December 18, 2011.
Of Monsters and Men- “Little Talks”
Formed in 2010, Icelandic indie-folk band Of Monsters and Men released their debut album, “My Head Is an Animal” in 2011. The album was a success, reaching number one in Iceland and number six on the US Billboard 200. The band’s lead single, “Little Talks,” was a massive hit, climbing to number one on the alternative songs charts in both the US and Canada. Of Monsters and Men followed up their debut with 2015’s “Beneath the Skin,” which peaked at number three on the Billboard 200. The band’s third album, “Fever Dream,” is set for release in 2019.
Mumford & Sons- “The Cave”
Formed in 2007, Mumford & Sons is a British folk band that consists of Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett, Winston Marshall, and Ted Dwane. The band’s debut album was “Sigh No More” and it was released in 2009. The album peaked at number two on the UK Albums Chart and has been certified platinum by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI). In 2012, the band won the Brit Award for Best British Group. The band’s second album, “Babel,” was released in 2012 and it won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year. The band’s third album, “Wilder Mind,” was released in 2015. “The Cave” is a song by Mumford & Sons that was released as the lead single from their debut album, “Sigh No More.” The song peaked at number 21 on the UK Singles Chart and has been certified platinum by the BPI.
The Paper Kites- “Bloom”
The Paper Kites’ album Bloom is one of the best Folk albums of 2022. This Australian group’s intricate and pleasant melodies, coupled with Laura committed and emotive vocals, make for a very engaging listen. “Bloom” is the title track off of the album, and it is a gorgeous example of The Paper Kites’ sound. The vocal hooks are immediately catchy, and the lyrics are both emotive and beautiful. The music on Bloom ebbs and flows perfectly, engaging the listener for the entire journey. If you are a fan of folk music, or just want to hear something pretty and relaxing, definitely check out The Paper Kites’ Bloom.
Passenger- “Let Her Go”
The official music video for “Let Her Go” by Passenger. The song was released in July 2012 as the second single from Passenger’s third studio album, All the Little Lights (2012). It peaked at number 5 on the UK Singles Chart in September 2013, becoming his most successful single to date. The song has been used in numerous advertisements and has been featured on many television shows.
The Staves- “Mexico”
The minimalist, beautifully arranged “Mexico” is the first single from The Staves’ 2022 album, and it’s simply gorgeous. Combining elements of country, folk, and pop, the song is propelled by Emily Staveley-Taylor’s ethereal vocal performance and some stellar production work from Justin Vernon (of Bon Iver fame). The result is a track that feels both fresh and classic, with a timeless sound that is sure to stand the test of time.
The Tallest Man on Earth- “1904”
The Tallest Man on Earth is the stage name of Swedish folk singer-songwriter Kristian Matsson. He often performs with only his acoustic guitar and his voice. He has released four studio albums and one EP. His song “1904” is from his debut album, Shallow Grave.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best folk music of 2022 is a highly subjective topic. However, there are certain artists and albums that seem to be garnering widespread acclaim. These include Bon Iver’s album “For Emma, Forever Ago,” Arcade Fire’s “The Suburbs,” and Mumford & Sons’ “Sigh No More.”
