B-Side Guys

Twenty-two minutes of traditional folk music might seem an unexpected pivot for a band known for crafting viral Spotify hits, but on “Oddfellows,” Morningsiders transform centuries-old ballads into vibrant contemporary recordings. The New York trio’s decision to track these five songs live reveals not just technical prowess, but a deep understanding of how folk music breathes and evolves.

“Two Sisters,” the EP’s opener, immediately establishes the project’s unique approach. Magnus Ferguson’s vocals intertwine with Reid Jenkins’ fiddle work in real time, creating moments of spontaneous harmony that studio overdubs could never replicate. Robert Frech’s piano work provides subtle counterpoint rather than mere accompaniment, demonstrating how three instruments can fill space without overcrowding it.

The band’s arrangement of “What Will We Do?” showcases their ability to honor traditional forms while introducing modern sensibilities. Jenkins’ fiddle playing references Scottish and Irish influences without becoming pastiche, while Ferguson’s guitar work provides rhythmic foundation that feels both ancient and immediate. The decision to maintain the song’s modal qualities while introducing subtle dynamic shifts creates tension that serves the narrative without overwhelming it.

“Jubilee” marks the EP’s most ambitious arrangement, with all three musicians pushing their instruments into unexpected territory. Frech’s piano work here deserves particular attention – his use of space and dynamics transforms what could have been simple chord progressions into atmospheric statements that expand the song’s emotional palette. The live tracking approach reveals itself most clearly in this track’s middle section, where instrument and vocal interactions create moments of genuine surprise.

The sparse arrangement of “Mary’s Dream” provides necessary contrast at the EP’s midpoint. Ferguson’s vocal delivery finds new emotional depths in centuries-old lyrics, while Jenkins and Frech demonstrate remarkable restraint, allowing silence to become as important as sound. This stripped-back approach highlights the timeless quality of the material while showcasing the band’s interpretive skills.

“Never Had But One True Love” closes the EP with the project’s most complex arrangement. The trio’s decision to gradually build intensity through instrumental interplay rather than obvious dynamic shifts demonstrates mature musicianship. Jenkins’ fiddle work here is particularly notable, weaving countermelodies that comment on and enhance the vocal line without overwhelming it.

Throughout “Oddfellows,” Morningsiders maintain a delicate balance between reverence for traditional material and creative interpretation. Their decision to track live creates an intimacy that serves these ancient songs well, capturing the spontaneous energy that helped preserve them through centuries of oral tradition. The EP’s production maintains clarity while preserving the natural room sound, allowing listeners to hear both the precision of individual performances and the chemistry between players.

This departure from their pop-oriented previous releases demonstrates artistic courage that pays off throughout these five tracks. By stripping away studio polish in favor of live performance, Morningsiders reveal new depths in their musicianship while breathing fresh life into centuries-old material. “Oddfellows” succeeds not just as a collection of traditional songs, but as evidence of how folk music continues to evolve through thoughtful interpretation and skilled performance.