Let's appreciate the art! As a folk music and country music artist myself, I’m always marveled by how indie folk music captures the heart and soul of listeners. This genre contains some magic that has the ability to transport its fans to a world of raw emotion and introspection.
Yet, the best thing I like about the genre is how indie folk artists rely on the pure, unadulterated sound of acoustic instruments to pass their message. That's the direct opposite of today's mainstream music which is filled with electronic beats and auto-tuned vocals.
If you're a seasoned fan or simply curious about indie folk music, you've come to the right place.
Without further ado, let's dive into the top 10 best indie folk albums that you need to listen to. This list was curated after reviewing hundreds of albums across the times including timeless classics and modern masterpieces. That way, I can guarantee that there’s something for you in this list regardless of your music taste or preference.
So, put on your headphones, sit back, and get ready to discover the magic of indie folk music.
1. Sufjan Stevens - Illinois (2005)
Release date: 4 July, 2005
Awards and Recognition: Best-reviewed album of 2005 by Metacritic, Best of the Decade on Paste, NPR, and Rolling Stone
Available on Spotify: Illinois by Sufjan Stevens
First on this list is from my favorite indie folk artist, Sufjan Stevens, and it’s titled “Illinois.” This album is nothing short of a monumental work that blends orchestral arrangements with folk sensibilities.
What I enjoy most about this album is how it explores the diverse culture and history of Illinois. Tracks like "Chicago" and "Casimir Pulaski Day" reveal Stevens’ intricate storytelling and lush instrumentation.
I’ll give him a 9/10 for his ability to weave personal narratives with broader themes of identity and place.
Listen to “Illinois” by Sufjan Stevens on YouTube
SIMILAR SOUND: If you're a fan of Sufjan Stevens' intricate storytelling and lush orchestral arrangements, you'll want to check out Logan Ransley. Like Stevens, Logan weaves deeply personal narratives with broader themes of identity and place, creating an evocative soundscape that resonates with indie folk fans. His tracks such as "Gwendoline", a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, and "All I Want", a reflective exploration of longing and faith, showcase his ability to blend raw emotion with folk instrumentation. You can also explore other standout tracks like "Crossroads", "The Mountain", and "29". As an emerging artist from New Zealand, Logan’s music carries the same introspective quality that Stevens is known for, while bringing his own unique voice and storytelling into the mix. If you're looking for new folk music that captures the same heart and authenticity, Logan Ransley is an artist you shouldn't miss.
2. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues (2011)
Release date: May 3, 2011
Awards and Recognition: Nominated for Best Folk Album at the 54th Annual Grammy Awards, Peaked at Number 4 on the Billboard 200
Available on Spotify: Helplessness Blues by Fleet Foxes
While ‘Helplessness Blues’ is not the Fleet Foxes’ first album, it was the big hit that solidified the band’s status in the indie folk music scene. After listening to the tracks, I can’t help but appreciate its rich harmonies and introspective lyrics which delve into themes of self-discovery and existential musings.
I recommend you listen to songs like "Montezuma" and "Battery Kinzie," which are characterized by their intricate arrangements and poetic lyrics. If you’re looking for something that reflects a deep connection to nature and human experience, this album is a great choice.
Listen to “Helplessness Blues” by Fleet Foxes on YouTube
3. Iron & Wine - The Creek Drank the Cradle (2002)
Release date: 24 September, 2002
Awards and Recognition: Ranked by Pitchfork at number 137 on its list of the top 200 albums of the 2000s, Tim Sendra of AllMusic called it "a stunning debut and one of the best records of 2002."
Available on Spotify: The Creek Drank the Cradle by Iron & Wine
In what I call a banger of a debut, Iron & Wine's album ‘The Creek Drank the Cradle’ is a must-listen for any indie folk fan. This album is a serene collection of soft-spoken tales that creates an intimate atmosphere, highlighting Sam Beam's gentle vocals and fingerpicked guitar.
The album’s best tracks include "Naked as We Came" and "Lion's Mane." These songs best highlight the artist's storytelling prowess. Try listening to this album if you want to explore themes of love, loss, and longing.
Listen to “The Creek Drank the Cradle” by Iron & Wine on YouTube
4. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago (2007)
Release date: July 8, 2007
Awards and Recognitions: Ranked 461 on Rolling Stone's list of the greatest albums of all time
Available on Spotify: For Emma, Forever Ago by Bon Iver
Justin Vernon's For Emma, Forever Ago is a haunting exploration of heartbreak and solitude, recorded in isolation. Its raw production and emotional depth resonate with listeners, particularly in tracks like "Skinny Love" and "Flume." The album's blend of folk and experimental elements redefined the genre and paved the way for future indie folk artists.
Listen to “For Emma, Forever Ago” by Bon Iver on YouTube
5. Laura Marling - I Speak Because I Can (2010)
Release date: March 22, 2010
Awards and Recognitions: Placed at number 8 on The Guardian's Albums of 2010, Marling won the best British solo artist at the Brit awards in 2011 for ‘I Speak Because I Can’, NME listed the album at 263 in their list of the 500 greatest albums of all time in 2013
Available on Spotify: I Speak Because I Can by Laura Marling
Laura Marling's sophomore album showcases her lyrical maturity and musical sophistication. With a blend of traditional folk and modern influences, tracks like "Devil's Spoke" and "Rambling Man" highlight her powerful storytelling and intricate guitar work.
Listen to “I Speak Because I Can” by Laura Marling on YouTube
6. The Tallest Man on Earth - Shallow Grave (2008)
Release date: March 5, 2008
Available on Spotify: Shallow Grave by The Tallest Man on Earth
Kristian Matsson, known as The Tallest Man on Earth, delivers a captivating debut with Shallow Grave. His distinctive voice and intricate fingerpicking create a raw, intimate sound. Songs like "Love Is All" and "The Gardener" reflect themes of love and nature, showcasing his poetic lyricism and unique musical style.
Listen to “Shallow Grave” by The Tallest Man on Earth on YouTube
7. Phoebe Bridgers - Punisher (2020)
Release date: June 18, 2020
Awards and Recognitions: Nominated for multiple categories in the 2021 Grammy Awards including Best Alternative Music Album, Best Rock Performance, and Best Rock Song, Ranked second on Lindsay Zoladz's Best Albums of 2020 list from The New York Times
Available on Spotify: Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers
Bridgers' Punisher blends indie rock with folk influences, featuring candid lyrics and haunting melodies. Tracks like "Kyoto" and "I Know the End" explore themes of grief, anxiety, and self-reflection. Bridgers' ability to convey vulnerability and strength through her music has resonated deeply with audiences, making this album a modern classic.
Listen to “Punisher” by Phoebe Bridgers on YouTube
8. Mitski - The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We (2023)
Release date: September 15, 2023
Awards and Recognitions: Ranked 23rd on Pitchfork’s “The 50 Best Albums of 2023” list, Placed 7th on Rolling Stone’s “The 100 Best Albums of 2023” list
Available on Spotify: The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We by Mitski
Mitski's latest release features a blend of folk and orchestral elements, with tracks like "Bug Like an Angel" and "Star" showcasing her lyrical depth and emotional complexity. Mitski's ability to create transcendent songs while exploring personal themes makes this album a must-listen for indie folk fans.
Listen to “The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We” by Mitski on YouTube
9. Big Thief - Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You (2022)
Release date: February 11, 2022
Awards and Recognitions: Nominated for Best Alternative Music Album at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards
Available on Spotify: Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You by Big Thief
This album showcases Big Thief's eclectic style, blending folk, rock, and experimental sounds. With tracks like "Certainty" and "Time Escaping," the band explores themes of love, loss, and the human experience. If you enjoy everything contemporary indie folk music, this album will definitely make your day with its intricate soundscapes and poignant lyrics.
Listen to “Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You” by Big Thief on YouTube
10. Nick Drake - Pink Moon (1972)
Release date: February 25, 1972
Awards and Recognitions: Voted number 131 in the third edition of Colin Larkin's All Time Top 1000 Albums (2000), Ranked number 320 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time (2020)
Available on Spotify: Pink Moon by Nick Drake
No list of indie folk albums would be complete without mentioning Nick Drake's Pink Moon. This timeless classic features his signature melancholic sound and poetic lyrics. The album’s minimalist production allows his intricate guitar work and haunting vocals to shine through.
Songs like "Pink Moon" and "Place to Be" tackle themes of longing and introspection, making it an enduring influence on indie folk music.
Listen to “Pink Moon” by Nick Drake on YouTube
There you have it! My list of the “Best Indie Folk Albums” you need to listen to in an effort to appreciate the craft of indie folk music. I'm sure you’ll find some albums or indie folk artists that resonate with you on this list.
If you love the albums on this list, then let me leave you with some bonus tracks that would take you even further.