The Oaks

Posted by keenangaynor

THE SKINNY: The Oaks is an extremely talented/unique indie-folk group who have not only obtained much attention through their music, but also through their humanitarian aid.

WEBSITE: http://intheoaks.blogspot.com
MYSPACE: http://myspace.com/wearetheoaks
PURCHASE: iTunes

The Oaks might easily be one of the most unique groups that I have come across in quite some time. Fifty percent of said uniqueness is attributed to their musical style. Yes, they are an indie folk group from Orlando, Fl., but you'd never guess it by listening to their music. From track to track, you can hear elements of not only indie rock, but also those of, jazz, folk, classic rock and soul (to name a few). Their instrumentation plays a large role in this melting pot of sound as well. On their latest release, Songs for Waiting, the standard "bass, drums and guitar" are present, along with a large handful of not so traditional instruments (such as accordion, bells, vibraphone, horns, mandolin, Wurlitzer, etc etc).

The other half of The Oaks' uniqueness comes from their history of humanitarian aid. Ryan Costello, the singer/guitarist/founder of the group, spent several of his post-college years living in Afghanistan "living among recently-returned refugees, teaching agricultural techniques and directly participating in food distributions" (via Wikipedia). It is this time spent abroad that make up for much of the lyrical (and musical) influence in The Oaks' music. Their 2006 release, Our Fathers and the Things They Left Behind, which was written shortly after Costello returned from Afghanistan, serves as a great example of their humanitarian efforts. Fifty percent of all sales made on the aforementioned record go directly to Afghan widows and recently returned refugees in Afghanistan.

Embedded below is a track from their latest (2008) release Songs For Waiting. This particular track really showcases how talented each member of this group is. And when I say talented, I mean it in a very non-threatening way. Many groups will write songs in odd time signatures in order to showcase/show-off their talent. The Oaks certainly showcase their talent, but manage to do it in a very modest and sonically pleasing manner.

"Masood" off of Songs for Waiting

FAVORITE TRACK: "Masood" off of Songs for Waiting
FOR FANS OF: Pattern is Movement, Headlights