Low Groves:

Low Groves is a Chicago-born, North Carolina-based folk project walking the line between traditional folk and indie rock, exploring themes of longing and loss. Their 2026 Old House Sessions EP features intimate live recordings, earning praise from Queen City Nerve for songwriting that is "personal yet mythic, beautiful yet heartbreaking."

Orillia:

Under his moniker Orillia, Andrew Marczak follows the long tradition of folk music’s more progressive stewards, commanding audiences with his unique bracing tenor and skeletal arrangements. His debut record, which was tracked live at Jamdek in his hometown of Chicago, marries the quotidian poetry of Sam Shepard with the sparkling twang of 90s alt-country.

Conor Lynch:

Recently making the move from Michigan to Chicago, Conor Lynch has become a staple in the Midwest roster of beloved DIY artists. Writing from the barebones of folk-antiquity, his words fill a room, offering something easy to latch on to and pocket for later.