More than a decade of musical inspiration came together for Herb Folsom during a winterlong song writing session that resulted in “The Big Buffet,” released this year.
“Making this album has been in back of my mind for quite a while,” Folsom said. “It was stream of consciousness, with some songs taking 10 minutes and others, I worked on for a couple of months.”
His debut album has an acoustic blues and swing style. Observational lyrics will either make you laugh or think for a minute.
The title track “Big Buffet (pronounced buh-FAY) focuses on Southern food indulgences, and “Wake up Dead” reminds us to not take life too seriously.
Folsom’s bluesy guitar playing blends well with his commentary on the absurdities of life. He takes on conformism in “Kids, House, Pension,” and expresses reverence for the natural world in “Above John’s Canyon,” and the island-inspired “Enjoy It.”
“I go from comedic songs, to sincere heartfelt ones. Then there’s the ones with some sarcasm thrown in for sure,” he said.
“The beauty of song writing is that it’s left open to interpretation of the listener.”
Folsom played in local bands Frayed Knot, and in Roscoe with Tony Little John and the late Carlton Johnson.
He gigs regularly on his “World Farmers-Market Tour” and also plays at taverns, festivals, weddings, and graduations. He gives guitar lessons, too.
His musician wife, Beth Wheeler, sings and plays flute on the album. The couple recently formed their own band Hui Aloha, inspired by a trip to Hawaii.
“It’s fun and all about sharing your music,” Folsom said.
“The Big Buffet” ($10) is available at Absolute Bakery in Mancos. Orders can also be taken via Email at wheelsom@gmail.com or by calling (970) 533-7943.
jmimiaga@the-journal.com