Mothlights
For Fans of: Low, John Fahey, Elliott Smith, Duster, Jackson Browne
Mothlights is a Washington DC slowcore/primitive guitar band combining influence from slowcore luminaries, the American primitive guitar scene, world folk music, and found sounds. Their 2023 debut Walking the World With A Leaky Umbrella confronts themes of decolonization antifascism and climate anxiety alongside personal themes of melancholy and remembrance. Live performances feature songs with dense arrangements, odd time signatures, and strangely timbred instrumentation.
Rugan Lewis
FFO: The Flaming Lips, John Prine and Dr. Dog.
Rugan offers a fresh perspective, blending soulful vocals, dynamic guitar work and intimate, heartfelt lyrics. Existing in a unique sonic and songwriter space that appeals to fans of The Flaming Lips, John Prine and Dr. Dog.
In April 2026, Rugan released his new album Juniper. His recorded work offers melodic harmonies, complex arrangements with rich textures—sometimes weaving in rock, psychedelic synthesizers and other surprising sounds.
GIO
FFO: Adrianne Lenker, Sun Kil Moon, Jose Gonzalez, Sufjan Stevens
GIO is a solo singer-songwriter who sings intimate, confessional lyrics with rich classical guitar arrangements. His forthcoming album, “Even Now,” features full-band instrumentation centered on fingerstyle-driven nylon guitar paired with topics of life, love, and loss. In addition to music, they have published poetry and film exploring similar topics.