Humbird, the artistic alias of Siri Undlin, returns with her latest single “Blueberry Bog,” a track that envelops listeners in a delicate frost, much like the northern climes of Minnesota from which Undlin hails. Released on April 12, 2024, this song continues to evolve Humbird’s soundscape, merging experimental folk with a distinctly environmental Americana twist, capturing the spirit of a landscape that is as rugged as it is raw.
“Blueberry Bog” emerges as a poignant reflection of dualities—combining the crisp, icy chill of Undlin’s northern roots with the cozy warmth of age-old folk tales. The song’s narrative seems to wade through a mystical marshland, where every step reveals both the beauty and the hidden depths of nature and human emotion. Undlin’s voice, known for its hymnal purity and resilience, serves as a beacon through this fog-laden journey, guiding us with its unwavering clarity.
The instrumentation in “Blueberry Bog” is a crafted echo of Humbird’s hallmark style. It intertwines traditional folk instruments with unexpected, subtle electronic inflections, creating a soundscape that feels both familiar and innovative. The acoustic guitar remains a grounding force, while layers of ambient sounds suggest the shifting shrouds of mist common to a bog’s mysterious allure.
Thematically, the song is a masterclass in storytelling, a skill Undlin has honed since her youth. Inspired by both the tranquility and the tumult of her surroundings, “Blueberry Bog” reflects a deeper commentary on isolation and connection—themes that are especially resonant in the context of recent global events and the personal introspections they have triggered.
This track not only adds to the rich tapestry of Humbird’s discography but also aligns with the broader currents in folk music today, which increasingly lean towards introspection and environmental consciousness. It is a song that invites repeated listening, each time revealing new layers and echoing back to the listener’s own experiences of solitude and community.
“Blueberry Bog” is a journey through the sensory and the felt, a perfect blend of Humbird’s lyrical prowess and musical innovation. As we look forward to what Siri Undlin crafts next, we continue to explore the depths she reveals through her music—a testament to the power of folk as a mirror to the soul and the environment.
