When it comes to music, I know we all have different tastes and opinions. But no matter what your favorite genre is, there’s no doubt that indie folk music has been making some serious waves recently. It’s everywhere, and I can’t get enough of it!
Indie folk rock is a genre that really took off in the ’90s. It beautifully blends the melodic guitar sounds of traditional folk music with modern instrumentation. This fusion has breathed new life into folk, making it more relevant and accessible for today’s generation while keeping that authentic, soulful vibe we all love.
Whether you're a longtime listener or you're new to the genre, this guide has got you covered. Below, I'll show you some of the best indie folk bands and albums that will lead you through the genre's highlights and hidden gems.
Indie Folk Rock's Influence on Modern Music
What I love about indie folk rock is how it has garnered a far-reaching impact on modern music. Many mainstream artists have incorporated folk-inspired elements into their sound, and indie folk rock bands continue to push the boundaries of what the genre can be. These artists have redefined the possibilities of folk music in a contemporary context.
Moreover, the rise of streaming services has allowed indie folk rock to reach a global audience. Bands from different parts of the world have gained international recognition, further proving the genre’s universal appeal.
Our Top Picks on Indie Folk Bands and Albums You Should Know
1. Fleet Foxes
If there's one band that really solidified the popularity of indie folk rock for me, it's Fleet Foxes. Known for their intricate vocal harmonies and lush, expansive soundscapes, the Seattle-based band draws inspiration from classic folk while pushing boundaries with experimental arrangements. Their self-titled debut album, Fleet Foxes (2008), is widely regarded as a genre-defining release.
Recommended Album: Helplessness Blues (2011) – With tracks like “Montezuma” and “Helplessness Blues,” this album is a deep dive into existential questions and personal reflection. Its rich harmonies and expansive instrumentation make it one of the best indie folk albums to date.
2. Bon Iver
I can’t talk about indie folk rock without mentioning Bon Iver. Fronted by Justin Vernon, Bon Iver has become synonymous with atmospheric, introspective indie folk rock. Vernon's falsetto vocals and emotive lyricism gained him widespread recognition, especially with the release of his debut album For Emma, Forever Ago (2007), written during a period of isolation in a Wisconsin cabin. The album’s sparse arrangements and deeply personal lyrics made it an instant classic, influencing countless indie folk bands.
Recommended Album: For Emma, Forever Ago (2007) – The haunting beauty of this album has made it one of the defining records of indie folk rock. Tracks like "Skinny Love" and "Flume" are raw, emotional, and unforgettable.
3. Mumford & Sons
British band Mumford & Sons brought indie folk rock to the mainstream with their debut album Sigh No More (2009), which featured their signature blend of banjo-driven melodies and anthemic choruses. The band’s passionate live performances, combined with Marcus Mumford's gravelly voice, have made them one of the most recognizable names in the genre.
Recommended Album: Sigh No More (2009) – This album is full of energy and emotion, with standout tracks like "The Cave" and "Little Lion Man." It's a perfect starting point for anyone new to indie folk rock.
4. The Lumineers
The Lumineers burst onto the scene with their self-titled debut album in 2012, showcasing a sound that combined stripped-back acoustic arrangements with infectious, sing-along choruses. Their biggest hit, "Ho Hey," quickly became an anthem, introducing many listeners to the indie folk genre.
Recommended Album: The Lumineers (2012) – With its minimalist instrumentation and heartfelt lyricism, this debut album is a perfect example of indie folk rock's ability to tell simple yet powerful stories.
5. The Smiths
One of the bands most responsible for the popularity and success of indie folk rock as a whole is The Smiths. The influence of The Smiths can essentially be heard in one way or another in just about every indie folk rock band since 1987, when the band split up. Reinventing the role of the guitar in pop and rock music, The Smiths reestablished what it meant to be a rock band, at a time when synths were king. Pairing the incredible guitar work of Johnny Marr with Morrissey's unique voice and witty, sarcastic lyrics left a mark on music too big to put into words.
Recommended Album: The Queen is Dead (1986) – This album is often hailed as one of the greatest indie rock albums of all time, and I couldn’t agree more. The influence of this masterpiece can still be felt in the music of so many contemporary artists.
6. Of Monsters and Men
Hailing from Iceland, Of Monsters and Men took the indie folk rock world by storm with their debut album My Head Is an Animal (2011). The band’s energetic, orchestral arrangements, paired with their dual male-female vocal harmonies, make for an exciting and unique sound.
Recommended Album: My Head Is an Animal (2011) – Featuring hits like “Little Talks” and “Dirty Paws,” this album blends folk-inspired storytelling with the dramatic builds of indie rock.
7. The Head and the Heart
Seattle-based band The Head and the Heart blend folk, rock, and pop influences into a sound that is both catchy and emotionally resonant. Their self-titled debut album (2011) captures the warmth of classic folk music while maintaining a modern, accessible sound.
Recommended Album: The Head and the Heart (2011) – Songs like “Lost in My Mind” and “Rivers and Roads” exemplify the band’s talent for crafting uplifting, anthemic indie folk tunes.
8. Big Thief
Big Thief is one of the newer indie folk bands that I’ve really come to love. Led by singer-songwriter Adrianne Lenker, Big Thief blends folk songwriting with experimental production.
Recommended Album: U.F.O.F. (2019) – This album is ethereal and introspective, capturing the beauty of nature and human emotions. Lenker’s poetic lyricism really shines on tracks like “Cattails” and “UFOF.”
Final Words
Whether you’re drawn to the introspective lyrics of Bon Iver, the harmonious beauty of Fleet Foxes, or the anthemic choruses of Mumford & Sons, indie folk rock offers a wide variety of sounds and experiences. The genre’s ability to blend the personal with the universal, the acoustic with the electric, makes it one of the most compelling genres in modern music.
For people new to this genre and seasoned listeners alike, the above albums and bands represent some of the best indie folk albums in the genre's history. Each brings its unique voice to the indie folk rock landscape, ensuring that the genre will continue to thrive and evolve in the years to come.