It seems there is a new heir to the American folk music throne previously occupied by Nick Drake. He is Sam Amidon.
I've been fascinated watching young artists strive to reclaim the true roots of American music in a post-hipster world. Dispensed with are the shaggy beards and aviator glasses, costume castaways left behind on a true Americana odyssey, but one now reinterpreted by the fretful musings of a new and troubled generation.
The song 'Tribulation' is Sam Amidon's reinvention of the 19th century folk song from the Midwestern prairies. Amidon keeps it restrained, taking you on a heart-wrenching journey, but at the end of the song there is a swell of warbley electronic bleeps, just to remind you that you are still in the 21st century.
Almost to flaunt his lack of any care whatsoever to "look good," Sam is also known to do bizarre puppet-like interpretations of his favorite authors. Quite the character, you can catch his podcasts on his youtube channel.
Try to get his new album All is Well. It’s amazing.
Post-Hipster Folk Musicians
Sam Amidon
Trend Themes
1. Authenticity in Music - Young artists are striving to reclaim the true roots of American music and are foregoing hipster aesthetics for authenticity.
2. Fusion of Old and New - Sam Amidon's mixing of a 19th century folk song with electronic bleeps illustrates a trend towards innovation through fusing old and new styles and technologies.
3. Performance as Art - Sam Amidon's puppet-like interpretations of his favorite authors points to a trend of performers as artists, exploring new and unconventional ways to deliver music to their audience.
Industry Implications
1. Music - The music industry could benefit from exploring new ways to integrate old and new styles and incorporate performance as a form of art.
2. Fashion - As artists move away from hipster aesthetics, the fashion industry can take advantage of the trend towards authenticity in their designs and marketing strategies.
3. Technology - Innovation in technology can provide opportunities for the music industry to experiment with integrating electronic elements into classic genres and styles.