Among the Oak & Ash: Reviving Folk Rock for a New Generation
Among the Oak & Ash is an American folk rock project formed by singer-songwriter Josh Joplin and vocalist Garrison Starr. The duo, originating from disparate musical backgrounds, gained attention for their 2009 self-titled debut which reinterpreted traditional Appalachian folk songs with a contemporary rock sensibility.
Early career
The project was conceived in 2008, born from a shared fascination with American roots music. Josh Joplin, known for his work with the Josh Joplin Group, partnered with alt-country artist Garrison Starr to explore the raw narratives of old folk ballads. Their vision was to bridge the gap between centuries-old storytelling and modern alternative rock production.
Breakthrough
Their breakthrough arrived with the 2009 release of Among the Oak & Ash on Verve Forecast Records. The album, produced by acclaimed musician Tony Berg, brought their fusion of ancient melodies and driving rhythms to a national audience. While not a chart-topping commercial smash, the record earned critical praise for its authentic yet innovative approach, securing a dedicated following within the folk rock revival scene.
Key tracks
Hiram Hubbard — This reimagined traditional tune showcases their signature blend of urgent, rock-oriented guitar work with stark, haunting vocal harmonies.
All the Roses — A standout original composition that demonstrates their songwriting skill, proving they could craft new material that felt as timeless as the standards they covered.
Peg and Awl — Their rendition of this classic work song transforms it into a powerful, rhythmically compelling anthem, highlighting the duo's ability to find modern relevance in historical lyrics.
The success of their debut led to extensive touring and festival appearances throughout 2009 and 2010. They shared stages with like-minded artists, further cementing their place in the new wave of folk-influenced acts. The project served as a pivotal creative junction for both Joplin and Starr, influencing their subsequent solo endeavors.
Fans of the group's sound often appreciate the work of similar artists in the Americana and folk rock space. Explore The Civil Wars for another potent duo partnership built on vocal interplay and acoustic intensity. The raw narrative style echoes in O Brother, a band that also draws deeply from traditional American musical wells. Listen to Gillian Welch for masterful, stripped-down storytelling rooted in folk and bluegrass traditions. The rock energy fused with folk structures can be heard in the music of The Lumineers, who emerged shortly after with a similar crossover appeal.
The music of Among the Oak & Ash maintains a steady presence on radio stations that champion folk rock and alternative Americana. Their tracks are frequently featured on independent music radio stations and specialty programs dedicated to singer-songwriter and roots rock genres, often sparking listener discovery of traditional folk music's enduring influence.
Listeners can explore the resonant sound of Among the Oak & Ash through the folk and rock radio stations available on onairium.com. Tune in to hear how this project continues to connect the deep past of American song with the vibrant present.
