7. Anais Mitchell
folk/country/blues http://youtu.be/6WDdqWgFos8 A conceptual folk-opera inspired by the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice from ancient Greece, featuring guest spots from the likes of Bon Iver's Justin Vernon among others? Sure, why not, and I'll make it awesome even more awesome that already sounds. That must be at least a little bit similar to the thought process that went through Anais Mitchell's head prior to writing and her recording the album Hadestown in 2010. Now, not many people would be able to pull off a folk-opera let alone one inspired by Ancient Greek mythology. Anais Mitchell would though, as the album was met with critical acclaim across the board. Now go and listen to it. Aside from that little masterstroke, Miss Mitchell has a steady supply of modern folk for you to dip your toes into, or even take a full on swim, with a number of solid albums under her belt, and some collaborative works too most recently last year's Child Ballads with Jefferson Hamer. Mitchell's brand of folk is a powerfully emotive one, strengthened by a sense of drama and storytelling, sheer musical talent and a vocal performance that walks the line of innocence and sin.