Exploring folk music’s central role in ecological awareness, a tapestry of contemporary and traditional songs that honor our connection to the living world — from Nessy Williamson’s blackthorn-inspired reflections on habitat loss to Heather Pierson’s sing-alongs that would make Pete Seeger proud. The first half features spring-themed British and American folk traditions, including Kate Daisy Grant & Nick Pynn’s “Fearn (Alder Song)” from their tree calendar project. After the break, the definition of “folk” expands globally through Yaima’s folktronica, Iris da Selva’s Portuguese celebration of Mother Nature, and El Compost del Sistema’s playful Argentine reminder that humans are “just one more animal.” The hour concludes with powerful advocacy pieces like Twilight Fields’ “The Animal’s Song” and Dakota Sid Clifford’s “Freedom, No Cash Value,” demonstrating folk music’s enduring role as a vessel for environmental values across cultures and generations.
PS: The storm sounds in the background were very real!