Alternative Folk from Forest Bed

Coming out of South West London, a new musical force is rising and they go by the name Forest Bed. This four-piece band, consisting of Paul Freeman on vocals, guitar and synth, Matt Markwick on lap steel guitar, violin and backing vocals, bass player Jay Springett and Mark Duddy on drums, has a clear sonic mission; to craft “slow, sad country music” that captures the raw, emotive essence of their musical journey.

After spending the last decade performing together in the lively, folk-infused Green Rock River Band, the trio of Freeman, Markwick and Duddy decided to embark on a new sonic expedition, driven by a desire to explore a more subdued and atmospheric soundscape. The addition of Jay Springett’s bass guitar skills completed the quartet, enabling them to venture further into the realms of English folk rock, Americana and alternative country.

In late 2019, Forest Bed was born and their journey now culminates in their debut EP, Placeholders. This EP is the perfect taste of their ability to distil a timeless alternative folk sound while seamlessly weaving it into a contemporary narrative. The EP opens with “Footsteps,” a track that sets the tone for the entire release, begining with atmospheric guitar twangs, delicate string flourishes and a gently shuffling beat. Here, the band demonstrates their instrumental prowess, allowing the music to breathe and communicate on its own, even before the introduction of vocal harmonies. It’s a contemplative piece, painting a vivid soundscape that pulls the listener into the heart of Forest Bed’s sonic world.

The second track, “Just Where The Light Begins To Fade,” injects a distinct Americana flavour. It’s a highlight of the EP, driven by stunning lap steel guitar leads that gracefully usher in the song. These leads interplay with alluring vocal melodies, creating an enduring country sound rich in memorable moments. Next is “Ghosts,” which offers a more downtempo alternative country sound. Haunting lap steel lines float through the track, accompanied by a mesmerising arrangement of laid-back drums and soft guitar tones, all capped by a dazzling vocal duet.

The EP concludes with the title track, “Placeholder.” It begins with a brooding guitar intro that transitions into a mellow arrangement. The gentle snap of the beat accompanies emotive vocal leads, building in intensity as the song unfolds. The result is a shimmering tapestry of sound that evokes a profound sense of emotion. It’s a fitting conclusion to an EP that combines blissful songwriting with a warm country feel.

Placeholders is an enchanting release that reveals Forest Bed’s ability to capture a sonic landscape that feels at once timeless and contemporary. Their willingness to prioritise atmosphere over perfection and polished production is clear throughout the EP, recorded in one day and self-produced, this collection of songs harks back to classic recordings that celebrated character and authenticity, resulting in a serene journey into atmospheric folk.

Listen to Placeholders below