Dark Folk

Dark Folk is a musical genre characterized by its dark, melancholic, and often ethereal atmosphere. Emerging from post-punk and industrial movements in the 1980s, it carries an aura of ancient traditions and mysticism.

Table of Contents

History and Origins

The origins of Dark Folk can be traced back to the late 1970s and early 1980s when bands and artists began blending traditional folk elements with dark, experimental, and post-industrial sounds. This was a time when genres like goth rock and industrial were flourishing, giving rise to a new form of folk that leaned towards the dark and mysterious.

During the mid-1980s, artists like Current 93 and Death in June pioneered the neofolk sound, characterized by traditional folk instruments combined with industrial and post-punk influences.

Key Characteristics

Dark Folk is not just defined by its sound, but also by its thematic elements and aesthetics:

Instrumentation

• Acoustic Guitars: Central to the genre, often with a haunting and resonating quality.
• Strings: Violins, cellos, and other string instruments add depth and texture.
• Percussion: From standard drums to tribal percussions, lending a ritualistic feel to the music.
• Synthesizers: Used sparingly to give an ethereal backdrop.

Themes and Lyrics

• Nature: A profound reverence and connection to the natural world.
• Paganism and Mythology: References to ancient European traditions, gods, and symbols.
• Mortality and Decay: A frequent exploration of death, the passage of time, and the ephemeral nature of life.

Notable Artists and Albums

Several artists have been fundamental in shaping the landscape of Dark Folk:

• Current 93: Led by David Tibet, they are known for their poetic and often cryptic lyrics. Albums like “Thunder Perfect Mind” and “All the Pretty Little Horses” are iconic.
• Death in June: Spearheaded by Douglas P., Death in June’s sound is a blend of melancholic melodies and martial rhythms. “But, What Ends When the Symbols Shatter?” is a typical album of this genre
• Sol Invictus: Another significant artists, with albums like “In the Rain” showcasing their unique take on Dark Folk.

Influence

Dark Folk has left an indelible mark on the world of alternative music. It has influenced numerous sub-genres like martial industrial, ethereal wave, and dark ambient. Many artists, even outside of the genre, incorporate Dark Folk elements into their music.