I wanted to introduce my listeners to ShugE, an incredible folk punk duo with a powerful new album out titled I Pick Flowers in the Spring, and Light Fires in the Fall. Their songs are packed with vivid storytelling, memorable melodies, and a raw honesty that makes the record feel deeply alive. Two tracks especially stood out to me: “Jesse and June” and “I Could Die Right Here.”
“Jesse and June” is classic folk punk at its best, driven by fast-picked acoustic guitars, banjo, and beautiful instrumental harmonies that give the song a restless energy. The track tells the story of Jesse, a trans woman growing up with an alcoholic and deeply transphobic father. One of the most powerful lines lands hard: “He still calls her Jack and he says ain’t no kid of mine is gonna be gay.” Jesse secretly saves her money and hides it away, hoping to escape and build a life of her own. Meanwhile June, her neighbor, is dealing with an alcoholic household too. The story unfolds piece by piece, pulling you in with catchy melodies and a narrative that keeps revealing more as the song goes on.
“I Could Die Right Here” shows another side of ShugE. Slower and more ballad-like, the song leans into warm acoustic guitars and lo-fi doubled vocals that create a tender and intimate atmosphere. The melody is instantly memorable, but it’s the emotional honesty that really stands out. Lines like “I could wake up sad forever” capture depression with striking clarity, while “I drove all the way to Omaha just to hand you this letter” shows the depth of feeling behind the story. As the song builds, lead guitar lines and a full band arrangement with strong drums and bass expand the sound without losing its raw core.
I Pick Flowers in the Spring, and Light Fires in the Fall is full of stories that feel grounded and real. ShugE bring a powerful sense of storytelling and melody to these songs, creating music that pulls you in and keeps you listening all the way through. Listen now:
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Written by Ryan Cassata
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The post Folk Punk Artist, ShugE Deliver Powerful Folk Punk Stories on I Pick Flowers in the Spring, and Light Fires in the Fall appeared first on ROCK THE PIGEON.