Model House at WTJU, Presented by Third Rail

September’s Third Rail presents neo-folk sensation, Model House. This free event is open to all at 2244 Ivy Rd. You can also listen on 91.1 FM, stream via wtju.net, video stream on WTJU’s YouTube channel, or listen via WTJU’s new app.

Model House is more or less a neo-folk songwriting collective laden with homeschooled autists and criminals. Featuring seven songwriters, reformed punks, and petty thieves, they have amassed a formidable—and in total transparency—overwhelming catalog in a relatively short span together. Pulling members from free agency, injured reserve, and county lockup, a deep bench and a focus on the fundamentals make this team a formidable opponent in the Central Virginia Exurban Folk Conference.

Their music explores many different facets of folk with twists of soul, Americana, and gospel influence with a dash of unnerving theatrical flair. A puzzled fellow musician settled on “Apocalyptic Folk” and that seems to fit just fine. With seven vocalists and questionable cultish tendencies, Model House creates power and depth within each song, which may leave listeners feeling scared or uncomfortable. And you’re just going to have to be okay with that.

In the works is a debut triple album with contributions from each member culling inspiration from Hrotsvitha, Julie Andrews, the IRA, and the Manson Family (pre-murders). It’s Baroque Folk for broke folks.

Third Rail is supported locally by Hello Goodbye Records, at 108 4th Street, Northwest, in Downtown Charlottesville.