Folkin' Around: Todd Kessler

posted in: Features

We’ve been through a lot of folk topics and artists with you on the Folkin’ Around column. Some of them are newcomers to OurStage and others are veterans. For a while now,  Todd Kessler has been one of my go-to artists when I want a relaxing song with meaningful subject matter. Having won awards on OurStage for both folk and alternative country competitions, I thought it was time to feature him.

His song Golden Bird begins with steady acoustic guitar strumming and a straight-forward vocal performance. When the female voice comes in, it’s hard not to be interested. Throughout are conversational melodies between the characters juxtaposed with moments of fulfilling harmony. Add subtle piano accents and you have a piece that has been received with rave reviews. Take a listen:

Based in Chicago, Kessler is the front man for Todd Kessler & the New Folk. They have garnered significant regional press coverage drawing comparisons to Bob Dylan and even a melodic reference to Led Zeppelin. The band gigs regularly in the Illinois area, playing several shows this summer. Be sure to check out his profile and stay tuned for news about more shows and perhaps an upcoming release.