(Artist Report)

Written by: Ginny Gaines

Cotton Jones, originally known as The Cotton Jones Basket Ride, is an American indie folk band lead by Michael Nau and Whitney McGraw. The band is from Cumberland, Maryland, a small town nestled in the Appalachian region, which heavily influences their sound. They formed in 2008, Cotton Jones was a departure from Nau's earlier work with indie rock group Page France, showcasing a more intimate and reflective style that blended Americana with dreamy folk setting. Michael Nau, the main songwriter and vocalist, brings a unique depth to Cotton Jones, drawing upon his folk-rock roots and blending them with an authentic relatable feel. Nau's songwriting is often a blend of sentimental warmth and inspiration, which, combined with McGraw's graceful harmonies, gives Cotton Jones a distinctive sound.

Cotton Jones’ music has a dreamy, old-fashioned vibe. They mix folk and Americana with a touch of vintage pop. Their songs often sound like they’re from another time, using lots of echo on guitars and organs. This gives their music a nostalgic feel, like looking at old photos. Their albums have a cozy, small-town charm, reminding you of quiet, rural places. The band's influences range from the 1960s and 1970s folk-rock scene to more modern indie folk contemporary acts. Cotton Jones blends different styles to create a unique sound. The band mixes the dreamy vibes with the folk-psychedelic elements. This results in music that’s both mellow and deeply emotional. Their songs have a timeless quality, making them feel familiar and comforting, like an old favorite sweater.

In 2008, Cotton Jones released their album titled The River Strumming. This album has 11 songs on it that include "It Comes To Me Now (In Fuzz)," "To Death With You," "I Was Stoned By The Chair," "It May Never Pass Again," "I Do What I Do: Exist & Pass," and "I Don't Suppose (Unrelaxed)." This album showcased the band's unique sound and brought them critical acclaim. Cotton Jones released their next album titled Paranoid Cocoon. This album has 10 tracks on it that include "Up A Tree (Went This Heart I Have)," "Gotta Cheer Up," "Gone The Bells," "By Morning Light," "Blood Red Sentimental Blues," and "I Am The Changer." This album was very well received and helped them continue to build their fanbase.

Cotton Jones released their album titled Tall Hours In the Glowstream. This album has 11 songs on it that include "Sail of the Silver Morning," "Somehow to Keep it Going," "Song In Numbers," "Soft Mountain Shake," "Dream on Columbia Street," and "Not Things I Need (Like Some Time Ago)." This album was well received by fans and critics alike. In 2011, the band released an EP titled Sit Beside Your Vegetables. This EP has 4 tracks that include "Egg On A Sea," and "Good In Every Word." They released another EP titled Rio Ranger. This EP has 6 songs on it that include "Only Minutes Young," "Don't Got A Lotta Time," and "Where You Stop fora Minute." Cotton Jones hasn't released any new music since the release of this EP.

The band’s appreciation of beauty is closely tied to the Americana they depict in their music. Album artwork, concert posters, and even their sound all create a rustic, lived-in world that feels rooted in the rural landscape of Maryland and beyond. Cotton Jones’ music reminds you of walking down a dirt road, past worn-out barns, on a sunny afternoon. It's as if the band is funneling the very spirit of a forgotten time of yesteryear. Cotton Jones’ live shows are just as intimate as their recordings. They often play in small venues, creating a cozy and friendly vibe where everyone feels connected. Their performances are simple and natural, highlighting the beauty of Nau’s songwriting and McGraw’s harmonies. They keep things low-key on stage, with minimal production and basic instruments. This lets the emotion and depth of their music shine through, making each show feel special and personal for the audience.

Cotton Jones is still loved in the indie folk scene, even though they haven’t released a lot of music. Michael Nau and Whitney McGraw have a talent for creating personal and emotional songs that mix old folk styles with modern indie pop, which has won them many loyal fans. Although it’s unclear if they’ll continue making music together, the songs they have released show their unique style and offer a calming, dreamy escape into their rustic world.

Soundwave Music Media will bring you any updates from Cotton Jones we come across.

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