Despite their name, there's nothing particularly modern or foolish about the songs of this New
Hampshire foursome. Unless you count devising their name by trying to fit letters into the Waffle House
logo. Since that fateful, syrup-soaked morning, they've been refining a sound best described as "seriously
retro, cosmic Americana", with songs that meld together the country rock of Gram Parsons with the
song-craft and harmonies of Dr. Dog.
The group's members have been making music together for between 1 and 16 years, depending on
which combination you pick... But as Modern Fools, this iteration took shape in 2019, and has continued to
hone in on their particular brand of dream country, while opening for the likes of Steve Earle, Ryan
Montbleau and Bonnie “Prince” Billy.
Their 2020 debut album SEER was a search for meaning; after suffering a serious car accident and the
end of a long-term relationship, lead singer and songwriter Josh Blair transformed his personal upheaval
into nine songs that fused cosmic Americana influences with his own unique voice.
The band's sophomore release, Strange Offering (May 2023), covers familiar sonic territory with a
newfound optimism; like SEER, it was recorded in Blair’s New Hampshire studio and mixed by
Seattle-based engineer Kevin Suggs (KEXP). While the albums have a kindred style, the substance has
evolved to reflect the band’s growth together. Strange Offering presents melancholic themes of loss and
existential dread in an oddly upbeat and comforting manner.
It's clear that their listening tastes look backward with reverence, but there's a new confidence in
Modern Fools that is ready for what tomorrow may bring.
Modern Fools is Josh Blair (guitar/vocals), Justin Gregory (drums/vocals), Jonathan Braught (guitar/vocals), Ian Galipeau (bass/vocals) and Nick Hayes (keys).