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Folkfinds‬ has made something of a habit of highlighting unusual settings for traditional songs and instruments, and while last week may have pushed the envelope a bit this week’s is something everyone should be able to enjoy. Jason King posts to Soundcloud under the moniker clawhammerdude, with a buttery soft banjo tone taking full advantage of Nylgut strings. He also occasionally features creative accompaniment; “Shade of the Willow” is a lovely original which pairs his picking with soft bowed cello. The end result is a beautiful piece of new old-time with a subtle chamber-folk feel to it, perfect for a mild Spring day even though the willows haven’t leafed out yet.

Q & A

What is your goal in recording and sharing music?

My goal is to continue to challenge myself creatively. That can be anything from the actual tune I am writing to a new instrument or a style of music. If folks enjoy what I end up sharing then that’s a real bonus.

Come up with a descriptive, original genre name for your music.

I try to incorporate an old-time style alongside modern techniques of accompaniment.

Who do you view as a likely audience for your music?

The feedback and responses I get seem to be all over the map from folks who listen to my music.

If trapped on a desert island with only 3 songs, which would they be?

1. “Purple Rain” by Prince and the Revolution — He was so ahead of his time and the way he arranged music was legendary.
2. “The Blackest Crow” by Red Tail Ring — This incorporates all I love about old-time music!
3. “Le Cygne” by Jacqueline Du Pre — To me it has to be one of the most beautiful pieces on cello. Jacqueline played like no one else.

Who is your musical hero(es), if any?

There are many musicians I admire (not heroes though). A few are Adam Hurt, Jacqueline du Pre and Jake Smith (White Buffalo)

You can hear more of Jason’s music on Soundcloud: Click Here