Feral Foster
Jalopy Theatre315 Columbia Street, New York 11231
Feral Foster opens Brooklyn Folk Fest at Jalopy Theatre, appearing as the sole billed performer. The night follows the October debut of his new album on Jalopy Records, and brings a musician central to the venue’s history back to its stage. Foster first brought Roots n’ Ruckus to Jalopy in January 2008; the long-running flagship show has introduced many listeners to the Jalopy community and served as a proving ground for musicians in the local scene.
A New York folk-and-blues musician, Foster makes guitar-led music rooted in blues and American folk, with influences reaching to the Near East and beyond. He is especially known as the host of Roots n’ Ruckus, where Alynda Segarra, the Deslondes, Nora Brown, Charley Crockett, Nat Myers and Miriam Elhajli are among the artists said to have gotten their start or tested new material. The Village Voice named him “Best Folk Artist,” while New York called his work “expertly rendered traditional blues.” Magnet praised his “commanding voice” and “deeply rooted songwriting,” descriptions that fit a performer whose songs are also characterized as incisive, empathetic and forceful.
Jalopy Theatre offers a unique evening centered on folk and traditional music in a space that feels like a blend of a vintage music hall and a community gathering spot. The venue holds around 100 people, with seating that invites close-up listening, allowing you to catch every nuance of the acoustic performances. The walls reflect its roots in handmade and analog traditions, creating a setting where the music’s authenticity is palpable. Adjacent to the theatre, the Jalopy Tavern serves drinks late into the night, often with live music of its own, extending the experience beyond the main show. Shows are ticketed and often feature multiple sets, fostering a night where the music and the crowd’s focus are intertwined, making it a place to truly immerse yourself in the sounds and stories of roots music.