Joanna Newsom remains an influential figure in progressive folk. From her deeply poetic songwriting, to her unique vocals and instrumental arrangements, Newsom has a long-lasting foothold in the genre despite only releasing four albums. For new fans looking to delve into her work, or old fans wanting a refresher, here are three songs that are must-listens.

“Clam, Crab, Cockle, Cowrie”

“Clam, Crab, Cockle, Cowrie” is the closing track to Joanna Newsom’s debut 2004 album The Milk-Eyed Mender. This song presents an intersection between free will and fate, as the speaker realizes that her relationship is ending. There are many contradictions, even just in the title, that call to mind the roles that fate and autonomy play in life. What parts are created through free will and personal agency?

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