New York City: the sprawling urban junction defined by its lights, its speed, and its clamor. For Brooklyn-based Americana project Ransom Pier, however, the Big Apple reflects in a slower, quieter tone. Forming in 2015 on Long Island, the acoustic duo writes and produces hardy, pulsating folk songs rooted in raw emotion and the circadian rhythms of still life in the big city.

Comprised of Hayley Harrington and William Carrigan, Ransom Pier often calls on guitarist Evan Harris and drummer Max Maples to embolden and structure the folksy tunes while on stage and in the studio.

Their April release, Feels Like Home To Me EP, evokes a universal coziness that brings the listener directly to the front steps of the Bushwick apartment in which it was conceived.

On the album, the glimmering yet grief-stricken “You Don’t Love Me” provides an uptempo beat to counteract the floating vocals and calming accompaniment that Ransom Pier so delicately exhibits.

In the bass-driven diary entry “Just Waiting”, lyrics lead the way. Harrington steadily rolls through her end-of-the-week thoughts unapologetically, and Harris echoes closely with brightly-defined guitar support. For rhythmic backing, Maples keeps time on the drum kit and Carrigan reliably walks along the neck of his upright bass.

Formed in Locust Valley, NY, Ransom Pier steadily plays shows across the Northeast and has sporadic tour dates booked up and down the East Coast as well. Catch the band performing their new EP as well as aged tunes from the 2017 Beauty & Demise record this Sunday, June 2, at Manhattan’s Mercury Lounge.

Until then, find them and hear the new music at the links below.

Website // Facebook // Bandcamp // YouTube // Spotify // Soundcloud // Instagram