Minneapolis-based project Midnight Horses has always operated in the evocative space between bright lights and dark corners. Led by the creative duo of Michael Borell and Dave Mehling, the group specialises in a brand of "freak folk" that feels both grounded in Midwestern soil and swept up in a hazy, psychedelic dream.
Their latest single, ‘Friends’, released in the closing moments of last year, perfectly encapsulates this duality, offering a shimmering indie-pop exterior that masks a biting critique of modern connectivity. The track moves with a relentless, driving groove, anchored by the percussion. There's rhythmic style that propelled it forward, providing the perfect heartbeat for a song that explores the frenetic pace of contemporary life.
Beneath the smooth, melodic vocals and the gentle shimmer of soft guitars, there is a palpable sense of unease. Midnight Horses aren't just writing catchy riffs; they are documenting the disorientation of an era defined by social media and shifting political landscapes.
The lyrical heart of the song is a sobering reflection on the people and platforms we invite into our inner circles. As the band puts it: "Whether it’s alcohol or algorithms – what we choose to engage with affects our perception of the world. Oftentimes the ones we think are there for us, are really the ones destroying us." This sentiment elevates ‘Friends’ from a standard indie-folk jam into a philosophical enquiry. It’s a song that questions the authenticity of our bonds in an age where "connection" is often just another data point.
Musically, the "freak folk" tag is well-earned. There’s a kaleidoscopic quality to the production, with layers of sound that feel like they are shifting under a strobe light. It manages to be incredibly digestible while maintaining a weird, experimental edge that keeps the listener on their toes.
By the time the final notes fade, you’re left with a sense of having navigated a neon-lit labyrinth—one that is as beautiful as it is treacherous. Midnight Horses have delivered a track that is as much a mood as it is a message, proving once again that they are one of the most insightful acts coming out of the Twin Cities right now.
You can stream the new single above, and for more, be sure to find Midnight Horses on Instagram.
