Anti-folk is a genre characterized by its lo-fi, DIY ethos and eclectic blend of folk, punk, and indie rock elements. Emerging in the 1980s, it gained momentum in the 1990s and 2000s, particularly in New York City's East Village scene. Anti-folk music often features simplistic, storytelling-style lyrics, acoustic instrumentation, and a rejection of traditional folk music's polished production values. The genre's cultural significance lies in its raw, emotive, and often humorous critique of societal norms, politics, and personal relationships. Drawing from punk's energy and folk's narrative tradition, anti-folk also incorporates elements of psychedelia, country, and avant-garde music. Notable for its anti-establishment stance and emphasis on creative freedom, anti-folk has influenced a range of genres, from indie rock to singer-songwriter styles, and continues to inspire artists who value authenticity and experimentation over commercial polish.

Gee Whiz: The Get Away From Me Demos

Nellie McKay

Album - 21 Tracks - Released May 9, 2025