Branches – Black Twig Pickers
Traditional Folk tunes from the Appalachians, performed by Black Twig Pickers.
“Branches” showcases a spirited collection of traditional American folk melodies, brought to life by the Black Twig Pickers. Inspired by the deep musical traditions of the Appalachian Mountains, the album features an authentic blend of fiddle, banjo, acoustic guitar, harmonica, jaw harp, and expressive male and female vocals. Each track captures the essence of 19th-century Americana with warmth and sincerity.
Whether you’re scoring a documentary, period drama, rural narrative, or light-hearted scene, these tunes offer a nostalgic yet lively window into the cultural heartbeat of Appalachian folk music.
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Black Twig Pickers
Old-time Appalachian music with heart, grit, and a whole lot of twang.
Rooted in the ridges and rhythms of Appalachia, the Black Twig Pickers trace their roots to Shawsville and Blacksburg, Virginia, and Lewisburg, West Virginia. They come from a region steeped in the rich musical traditions of the Appalachian Mountains. Their sound is a living homage to the past, often captured live to tape to preserve the unfiltered spirit of front-porch jams, barn dances, and community gatherings.
With a deep respect for heritage and a flair for authenticity, the band has released acclaimed albums on labels such as Thrill Jockey, VHF Records, and House of Mercy Recordings. Along the way, they’ve shared stages and studio time with kindred spirits like Charlie Parr, Steve Gunn, and the late Jack Rose, further cementing their place in the modern folk and roots revival.
Meet the Band
Mike Gangloff: Fiddle, Banjo, Jaw Harp, Vocals
Founding member of the experimental drone band Pelt, he’s known for blending Appalachian roots with avant-garde soundscapes, creating a unique sonic bridge between tradition and innovation.
Nathan Bowles: Banjo, Percussion, Vocals
Nathan has a thriving solo career in experimental folk and has collaborated with guitarist Steve Gunn. He’s also a former member of the Spiral Joy Band, known for its immersive sound explorations.
Isak Howell: Guitar, Mouth Harp, Vocals
A jaw harp virtuoso with a passion for field recordings, he’s deeply committed to preserving traditional music through analog formats and grassroots documentation.
Sally Anne Morgans: Fiddle, Flat-Foot Dancing, Square Dance Calling, Vocals
Sally Anne is one half of House and Land, a duo that reinterprets Appalachian ballads through a feminist lens. She’s also a skilled dancer and caller at traditional square dances, keeping community traditions alive.
