It takes a certain kind of ingenuity (and perhaps a dash of gumption) to build from a traditional musical foundation, refining and reinventing along the way in a modern society.
Minneapolis-based folk n’ roots band Maygen & The Birdwatcher is a group who does just that. Each installment of their musical journey adds onto a previous release. From their 2021 album Moonshine, to the companion EP, Bootleggin’ At The Flower Shoppe and beyond, this unique outfit continues to produce music that expands its range and elevates its sound.
Spearheaded by Maygen Lacey and Noah Neumann, the sextet has honed a particular blend of folk, Americana, and country that pays homage to traditional music of old. Rounding out their sound is Nik Pellinen (banjo, lap steel), Jesse Moravec (mandolin), Evin Haukos (fiddle), and Peter Anderson (drums/percussion).
Aptly named Leap Year, the band’s newest EP ushers in a new era of music for them, taking their artistry to new, even cosmic heights.
Inspired by the celestial symbolism of 2024, this six-song collection is a carefully curated look through this band’s introspective lens. The recording process was no small feat, as the bandmates couldn’t summon creativity from just anywhere. Location was a huge consideration, so naturally, the gang settled on the coziest spot imaginable to really get the juices flowing: Real-Phonic Records in Cleveland, Minnesota, in the middle of winter.
Engineered by Erik Koskinen, these tracks are deeply personal, as there was no rushing into things for this group. Instead, there was much quiet time involved, sitting with the music and letting it marinate. With four newly penned songs, both “Full Moons (Leap Year Session)” and “Antidote (Leap Year Session)” however are more “bare bones” versions of previously released originals.
The opening track, “Right Where You Belong”, is a song for all those looking to get back home. Conjuring images of a tranquil countryside with its arms open wide, you can get lost in the comforting lyrics and invigorating instrumentation. It’s a song capable of washing over you like a cold mountain stream.
Lacey says this particular number was inspired by Mark Laita’s YouTube channel, Soft White Underbelly, in which he interviews people who often go unseen in our fast-paced world. Notably, the lyrics of this track offer a place of hope and refuge for those who seem to have none.
Told through the eyes of a mid-century farm-boy, “Jericho” is an evocative folk track inspired by Neumann’s recollections of a story his father told him as a boy. Rich in background instrumentals, this song is a beautiful tribute to the origins of Americana music. The soft vocal harmonies can raise goosebumps on the skin, as it’s easy to get lost in the band’s enchanting picking prowess.
The best music is the kind that makes you feel things, whether it be joy or sadness or something in between. Lacey’s touching vocals shine alongside Neumann’s tender piano playing on the EP’s final track, “Antidote (Leap Year Session).” Together with the band’s stellar string accompaniment, the whole effect is heart-wrenching in the best way.
Recognized at the Midwest Country Music Awards for Album of the Year and Americana Artist of the Year in 2023, the band was especially lauded for the resonating message behind their video single, “Where Good Things Grow.” Released late last year, this track was a collaboration with the South Dakota Grassland Coalition, launching a public service campaign to spread awareness and to educate South Dakotans (and others) on the importance of the grasslands. Emmy-nominated filmmaker Joel Dickie directed the video.
Since their debut in 2021 with Moonshine, Maygen and The Birdwatcher have been cooking up innovative music that celebrates the old as well as the new. Later this year, fans can expect another release from the band, further establishing their rapidly growing repertoire of songs.
In the meantime, they will be performing in their stomping grounds of Wisconsin and Minnesota these next few months. Building on the legacy of folk pioneers who came before them, Maygen and The Birdwatcher look to forge their own path in the 21st Century.
Featured photo: Wolfskull Creative
