For Buffalo, New York-based Americana band Folkfaces, several roots genres coexist, bringing a rounded variety to the music. This mix is colorfully described by a phrase that aptly encapsulates the band’s myriad influences. They say they’re influenced by “weird old American music.”
“All that funky, folky, bluesy, jazzy, droney, weird stuff just does something to ya!” explained Folkfaces frontman and multi-instrumentalist Tyler Westcott. “Blues and jazz are at the root of many styles of music. Jug bands, string bands and street performers back then were way ahead of their time. They laid the groundwork for rock ‘n’ roll, punk, hip-hop, country, and so much more. I try to use old chord progressions or melodies and put my own words to ‘em. Or take an old song and make it your own. That’s how new music gets made!”
The enthusiasm is evident when Westcott describes why this music has reached in and grabbed his heart. He sounds like a good steward of all sounds indigenous to the U.S. One of his most powerful influences is clearly jazz.
“When I was a senior in high school, I went to New Orleans, and danced on a riverboat, ate catfish, and heard an amazing jazz band,” he reminisced. And that really changed me.”
He continued, “I’ve also had many formative experiences jamming with family and friends and growing up at music festivals like Grassroots and the Great Blue Heron. Playing music and spreading joy…making people feel…is the best job in the world.”
While Westcott also makes solo music—such as his April release of the record “Royal Street Blues,” the full band Folkfaces has made several records since its founding in 2011.
Their latest – titled PLUMS – was released a year ago in June 2023.
“It’s our third full-length release,” Westcott explained. “We recorded it at GCR Audio in Buffalo, New York with Justin Rose. The album features many special guests. We took our time and worked very hard to make it sound great.”
The title is an act of simplicity; he said it references the band’s “snack of choice” on the first tour with the current lineup. That current roster includes Westcott, fiddler/multi-instrumentalist Brendan Gosson, upright bass player Patrick Jackson, and percussionist Dan Schwach on drums and washboard.
For years, Folkfaces has hosted its own camping music festival. Their 8th annual Folkfaces Fest will be held from October 3 to 6 at Cherry Hill Campground near Darien Lake outside Buffalo.
Additional events they’re excited about include The Family Hoedown 7 at the “G” Lodge in Hannibal, NY, on June 7; the Estival Festival in Caneadea, NY, on June 21; and “Folkfaces & Friends” at the Great Blue Heron Music Festival in Sherman, NY on July 5 (for more dates, visit the band’s website at Folkfacesmusic.com or follow the band’s Facebook page).
Westcott said what they’re after is “believability” – and taking just a peek at a Folkfaces performance will make anyone into a true believer.
For those new to the Folkfaces sound, “Come see a show. Listen to our records. Meet the band,” Westcott suggested. The strong personality emitted by these genuine folk faces can be sensed in Westcott’s joke; it just might not be a joke but an actual suggestion: “Take us to your house,” he said. “Let us drink your beer and sleep on your couches! You won’t regret it…hopefully!”
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