Modern Fools

Despite their name, there's nothing particularly modern or foolish about the songs of this New Hampshire foursome. Unless you count devising their name by trying to fit letters into the Waffle House logo. Since that fateful, syrup-soaked morning, they've been refining a sound best described as "seriously retro, cosmic Americana", with songs that meld together the country rock of Gram Parsons with the song-craft and harmonies of Dr. Dog. 

The group's members have been making music together for between 1 and 16 years, depending on which combination you pick... But as Modern Fools, this iteration took shape in 2019, and has continued to hone in on their particular brand of dream country, while opening for the likes of Steve Earle, Ryan Montbleau and Bonnie “Prince” Billy. 

Their 2020 debut album SEER was a search for meaning after suffering a serious car accident and the end of a long-term relationship. The band's sophomore release, Strange Offering (May 2023), covers familiar sonic territory with a newfound optimism; like SEER, it was recorded in Blair’s New Hampshire studio and mixed by Seattle-based engineer Kevin Suggs (KEXP).  While the albums have a kindred style, Strange Offering presents melancholic themes of loss and existential dread in an oddly upbeat and comforting manner. 

It's clear that their listening tastes look backward with reverence, but there's a new confidence in Modern Fools that is ready for what tomorrow may bring.