Nu-folk is a modern revival of traditional folk music that emphasizes storytelling, acoustic instruments, and authenticity. It emerged in the 21st century with key artists like Mumford & Sons and Laura Marling shaping the genre, blending elements of indie and alternative music. The movement is characterized by its raw sound, minimalist arrangements, and themes of love, nature, and introspection.

1. Nu-Folk Music
Christopher Baker
musicstudentinfo.com

2. Nu-Folk
Exploring a
Modern
Folk
Revival
Contents
Introduction
History and Characteristics
Key Artists
Key Albums
Timeline
Key Record Labels
Instrumentation
Production Techniques
Geography and Themes
Music Influences
Key Tracks
Summary

3. 1: Introduction
• Welcome to the world of Nu-Folk!
• A contemporary take on traditional
folk music.
• Blending old and new to create a
unique sound.

4. 2: History and
Characteristics
Emerged in the 21st
century as a
response to
modernity.
Focuses on
storytelling,
authenticity, and
acoustic instruments.
Often incorporates
elements of indie
and alternative
music.

5. 3: Key Artists
Mumford & Sons
Laura Marling
The Decemberists
Fleet Foxes
Bon Iver
Of Monsters and Men

6. 4: Key Albums
• Sigh No More" - Mumford & Sons
• "I Speak Because I Can" - Laura Marling
• "The Crane Wife" - The Decemberists
• "Fleet Foxes" - Fleet Foxes
• "For Emma, Forever Ago" - Bon Iver

7. 5: Timeline
• Early 2000s: Emergence
of Nu-Folk movement.
• Mid-2000s: Growing
popularity and recognition.
• Late 2000s: Influence on
mainstream and indie
music.

8. 6: Key Record Labels
• Communion Records
• Sub Pop
• Rough Trade
• Domino Recording Co.
• Bella Union

9. 7: Instrumentation
• Acoustic guitars
• Banjos
• Mandolins
• Fiddles
• Harmonicas

10. 8: Production Techniques
Emphasis on
raw and
organic sounds.
Minimalist
arrangements.
Focus on
capturing live
performances.

11. 9: Geography and
Themes
• Often associated with rural and
natural imagery.
• Themes of love, nature, and
introspection.
• Reflects a longing for authenticity
in a modern world.

12. 10: Music
Influences
• Traditional folk music: Storytelling and acoustic
instruments.
• Indie and alternative music: Modern sensibilities
and experimentation.
• Country and Americana: Influences on
Songwriting and melodies.

13. 11: Key
Tracks
"Little Lion Man" - Mumford & Sons
"Ghosts" - Laura Marling
"The Crane Wife 3" - The Decemberists
"White Winter Hymnal" - Fleet Foxes
"Skinny Love" - Bon Iver

14. Lumineers
Ho Hey

15. 12: Summary
Nu-Folk: Modern revival of traditional folk music.
Emphasizes storytelling, acoustic instruments, and authenticity.
Key artists like Mumford & Sons and Laura Marling have shaped the genre.
Blending indie, alternative, and folk influences.