Photo courtesy of A.W. Feldt Myspace page

I had the pleasure of meeting A.W. Feldt in the summer of 2008 at a small show in Bremerton, WA. It is never good to judge a book by its cover, but at first look at Feldt I knew exactly what type of music he was going to play. The troubador from Bothell, WA wore a uniquely patterned shirt (I wish I could recall the pattern but I’m getting so old and my memory becomes foggy) with ivory buttons, high-water pants, and shoes that resembled clogs. There may have been a vest involved in the outfit, but really this post isn’t about his sense of fashion.

To describe it best, I imagine James Taylor would listen to A.W. Feldt when he feels like he needs to chill out. There is always  tons of acoustic singer/songwriter music coming out, especially with this semi-folk revival we seem to be experiencing now, but there is something different about Feldt. It is refreshingly simple, almost dreamlike. Comparrisons could be made to Fionn Regan, but sleepier.

Everything about the music is just pleasant. The songs seems like an insight to what I imagine his to be like. Very thoughtful, making use of what he has and being very appreciative of it. When he gave me a copy of his demo “I Hope You Know What You’re Doing E.P,” it was hand wrapped in a brown paper bag with his name printed on it. The music has that same homemade feel.

Most of the songs are strictly acoustic guitar accomponied by Feldt’s high, sweet voice. Songs such as “Strange To Feel Strangely For A Stranger” call for reading a novel beside a fireplace on a rainy day while thinking about lovers gone, here, and yet to come (and probably ten thousand other indie cliches, but I digress).

Lyrically, the songs are all very melancholic. Such lines as “I’ve been wondering if I even care. It’s a long story” in the song “please leave” are not exactly the cheeriest of phrases, but chances are if you are listening to independent folk music you are probably not looking for music that’s always happy. Another track, the cryptic sounding “I’m Sorry But I Can’t Wait Much Longer”  shows how Feldt can have versatility in songs that could easily mesh together.

A.W. Feldt is currently signed to the label The Haunted Fortress. His music can be purchased on their website or found on iTunes. He also has a myspace for which features most of the EP and some other tracks. The label website features a smaller three song EP that can be downloaded for free or for donation (http://www.thehauntedfortress.com/current-releases.php).

http://www.myspace.com/awfeldt