Folk Night Brings Memorable Music and Whimsy in Hewitt Workshop

The Wesleyan Folk Music Collective hosted the first Folk Night of the semester on Thursday, Sept. 24, a night which proved to be a joyous and wholesome refuge from the chilly fall night. A cornerstone of the University’s musical community, Folk Night brings together bands and singers who perform mainly traditional American folk and bluegrass music.

This Folk Night was situated in the Hewitt Workshop, the cozy space perfect for making the little crowd feel substantial while still having room to dance. That room did not go to waste. The crowd started off shy, but once the music picked up, some let loose, spinning and dancing with their friends, while others stood back and took in the music.

The first act, the duo of Cyrus Reese ’30 and Abby Kaufman ’30, kicked off the night with a cover of “Rip Torn” by MJ Lenderman, followed by a few original songs. Reese, the lead singer, had a strong voice with a slight rasp at the end of notes, which, combined with the energy of the songs, felt very reminiscent of The Backseat Lovers. Kaufman’s harmonies and riffs were stellar, and the sound of their guitars wove in well. The two of them were clearly having fun performing, and the goofiness was audible. While they leaned more indie rock than folk, the small crowd was undeterred, and it remained a great start to the event. 

Next up was the bluegrass band Whiskey Rebellion, consisting of banjo, guitar, mandolin, and two melodious voices (including Ellie Powell ’28 and a guest singer). From start to finish, they brought high-energy music that was the epitome of folk. With their beautiful harmonies and infectious rhythm, they got everyone dancing, at times in little conga lines and contra-esque circles. They played a mix of original songs and covers. This included a lovely and superbly executed tribute to Dolly Parton with “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind.” Their set also featured an original about former UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The critical yet catchy song was received with whoops and even more dancing feet. 

The third and final group was another one of the University’s iconic bluegrass bands: The Pine Street Pickers. With their angelic lead voice, Julia Siegler ’27, and impressive picking (fittingly), the band kept the audience hooked on a range of tracks, both melancholy and fun. With their blend of acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and fiddle, they played through their signature songs, including covers of Gillian Welch’s “Wayside / Back in Time,” Albert Frank Beddoe’s “Copper Kettle,” and Della Mae’s “Bourbon Hound,” complete with the country accent. The Pickers never fail to keep everyone grooving until the festivities’ end, and that streak was sure not to end this Folk Night. 

By the final strum of a guitar, everyone was on their feet and giving the bands the standing ovation they deserved. Then, after the majority of the crowd and bands cleared out, those who were left settled down in a circle on the floor for a folk jam, led by Xander Starobin ’27 of The Pine Street Pickers. A few came equipped with instruments: a fiddle, a guitar, and a harmonica. Others sang, with a little harmonizing, while some were simply happy to be there. Overall, the night ushered in a sense of community and whimsy into fall. For those who missed it or crave an escape from the academic grind, you can catch the next Folk Night later this season or come to Outhouse Open Mics at 9 p.m. on Tuesday nights for other wholesome, cozy circles of music. 

Katherine Emmer an be reached at kemmer@wesleyan.edu.