The best Traditional Folk Music albums
of the 2020s.
Where to start with 2020–2029 traditional folk music — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2020s — traditional folk music
Top picks from 2020–2029, ranked by where we would start.
Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Orchestral arrangements breathe new life into Cash's iconic baritone, blending country roots with lush symphonic textures.
Start here
Nelly Furtado
7
A vibrant blend of pop and Latin rhythms, underscored by introspective lyrics and Nelly Furtado's signature vocal delivery.
Start here
Gen Hoshino
Gen
A vibrant blend of J-pop and traditional folk influences that captures the essence of modern Japanese music.
Start here
Gabrielle Aplin
Dear Happy
A blend of introspective lyrics and uplifting melodies that weave traditional folk with modern pop sensibilities.
Start here
Gabrielle Aplin
Phosphorescent
A luminous blend of folk-pop textures infused with introspective lyrics and warm, ethereal melodies.
Start here
Kurt Vile
Watch My Moves
A laid-back blend of introspective folk-rock and groove-laden melodies creating a meditative, sun-drenched atmosphere.
Start here
Josh Rouse
Love in the Modern Age
A reflective blend of folk and country that navigates romance and modernity with warmth and introspection.
Start here
Frank Turner
FTHC
A raw and energetic blend of folk punk infused with introspective lyrics and anthemic melodies reflecting personal struggles.
Start here
Loudon Wainwright III
I'd Rather Lead a Band
An intimate collection of jazz and folk standards, infused with Wainwright's trademark wit and poignant storytelling.
Start here
Aygün Kazimova
Ya v Nirvane
A vibrant fusion of contemporary R&B and traditional Azerbaijani folk, weaving soulful melodies with modern grooves.
Start here
Janis Ian
The Light at the End of the Line
A reflective collection of folk-infused pop melodies that explore themes of resilience and nostalgia.
Start here
Cat Stevens
Tea for the Tillerman 2
A reflective journey through revisited classics, blending introspective lyrics with Cat Stevens' signature warm melodies.
Start here
Cat Stevens
King of a Land
A reflective journey blending folk melodies with contemplative lyrics that echo the wisdom of a lifetime.
Start here
Katie Melua
Album No. 8
A lush tapestry of jazz-inflected melodies interwoven with introspective lyrics and the warmth of Katie Melua's distinct vocals.
Start here
Gen Hoshino
Lighthouse
A soothing blend of J-pop melodies and traditional folk elements, woven together in intimate live recordings.
Start here
Jake Bugg
Saturday Night Sunday Morning
A vibrant blend of Americana and blues-infused melodies, showcasing introspective lyrics wrapped in catchy hooks.
Start here
Jake Bugg
A Modern Day Distraction
Start here
First Aid Kit
Palomino
A shimmering blend of harmonies and introspective lyrics set against a backdrop of classic folk instrumentation.
Start here
Ásgeir Trausti
Sátt
A serene blend of traditional folk melodies and contemporary introspection that captures the essence of Icelandic landscapes.
Start here
Ásgeir Trausti
Bury the Moon
Lush acoustic arrangements intertwine with ethereal vocals, creating a dreamy soundscape that evokes Iceland's natural beauty.
Start here
Cate Le Bon
Pompeii
An ethereal blend of experimental pop and traditional folk, woven with intricate melodies and introspective lyrics.
Start here
Angel Olsen
Big Time
A lush blend of pop and folk, rich with introspective lyrics and expansive melodies that evoke both longing and hope.
Start here
Angel Olsen
Whole New Mess
A haunting blend of stripped-back instrumentation paired with deeply introspective lyrics exploring themes of love and loss.
Start here
James Yorkston
The Great White Sea Eagle
A contemplative blend of traditional folk melodies and introspective storytelling set against a backdrop of rich acoustic textures.
Start here