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Biography

In an era where folk music often feels either overly precious or desperately reaching for relevance, Darlingside emerged from the leafy confines of Williams College in Massachusetts like a perfectly harmonized antidote to musical cynicism. Formed in 2009 by four liberal arts graduates who initially bonded over late-night dormitory jam sessions, the quartet—Don Mitchell, Auyon Mukharji, Harris Paseltiner, and Dave Senft—would go on to craft some of the most intricately beautiful chamber folk music of the 2010s and beyond.

What began as casual musical exploration between friends studying everything from neuroscience to philosophy quickly evolved into something far more serious when the four discovered their voices blended with an almost supernatural synchronicity. Each member contributes vocals, creating a democratic approach to harmony that recalls the best moments of Crosby, Stills & Nash while maintaining a distinctly contemporary edge. Their instrumental prowess is equally impressive—collectively wielding guitar, mandolin, banjo, violin, cello, and keyboards with the kind of intuitive interplay that typically takes decades to develop.

Darlingside's sound exists in that sweet spot between indie folk and chamber pop, where Bon Iver's falsetto experiments meet the structural sophistication of classical music. Their songs unfold like short stories, often exploring themes of science, nature, and human connection with a literary sensibility that reflects their academic backgrounds. The band's approach to songwriting is notably collaborative, with melodies and lyrics emerging from group sessions that can stretch for hours as they chase the perfect harmonic resolution or metaphorical turn of phrase.

Their 2012 debut album "Pilot Machines" announced their arrival with quiet confidence, but it was 2015's "Birds Say" that truly established their reputation. The album's title track became something of a calling card, its delicate interweaving of voices creating an almost hypnotic effect that drew comparisons to Fleet Foxes and The Tallest Man on Earth. The record's success led to extensive touring, where their live performances revealed the full power of their four-part harmonies in intimate venues across North America and Europe.

The breakthrough came with 2018's "Extralife," an ambitious concept album that grappled with themes of mortality, technology, and human evolution. Produced with crystalline clarity, the record showcased the band's growing confidence in the studio, incorporating subtle electronic elements and orchestral arrangements without sacrificing the intimate core of their sound. Songs like "Eschaton" and "Ocean Bed" demonstrated their ability to tackle weighty subjects while maintaining an accessibility that kept their music from disappearing into academic pretension.

Critical acclaim followed, with outlets from NPR to Rolling Stone praising their sophisticated approach to folk music. Their appearance on NPR's Tiny Desk Concert series became a viral sensation, introducing their music to a broader audience who were immediately struck by the precision and warmth of their live performance. The band's ability to recreate their studio sound in live settings, often performing around a single microphone in the style of old-time radio broadcasts, became a signature element of their appeal.

2020's "Fish Pond Fish" found the band exploring more experimental territory, incorporating found sounds and field recordings while maintaining their commitment to melody and harmony. The album's creation was documented in a series of behind-the-scenes videos that revealed their meticulous attention to detail and the democratic process behind their songwriting. Even as the pandemic limited their touring opportunities, they adapted by creating innovative virtual performances that maintained their connection with fans.

Throughout their career, Darlingside has remained refreshingly free from the industry machinations that often compromise artistic vision. Their independence has allowed them to develop at their own pace, building a devoted following through word-of-mouth and the kind of organic growth that feels increasingly rare in the streaming era. They've shared stages with artists ranging from The Decemberists to Dawes, earning respect from peers and critics alike for their craftsmanship and authenticity.

As they continue to evolve, Darlingside represents something precious in contemporary music—a group of artists committed to the long game, more interested in perfecting their craft than chasing trends. In a world of solo artists and manufactured bands, their genuine friendship and musical partnership offers a reminder of what's possible when talent meets dedication. Their influence on the current generation of folk and indie artists is already evident, proving that sometimes the most radical act is simply making beautiful music with care and intention.