Folk Bitch Trio is a Melbourne/Naarm-based indie folk group formed in 2020 by Gracie Sinclair (she/her), Jeanie Pilkington (she/her) and Heide Peverelle (they/them). Known for lush three-part harmonies and emotionally resonant songwriting, the trio has gained international attention.
Having recently signed with Jagjaguwar, they released their debut album, Now Would Be a Good Time, on July 25. Recorded at Roundhead Studios in Auckland with producer Tom Healy, the album explores themes of youth, introspection, and social complexity.
The opening track, “God’s a Different Sword”, includes the lines: “Could I be good on my own accord? / Heaven knows I need it / But god’s a different sword.” The lyric, ostensibly about addiction, suggests a tension between self-reliance and relational power – perhaps even a nod to alternative politics, echoing themes in Jacinda Ardern’s recent memoir.
The trio’s name hints at a punk spirit and playful defiance, but their sound leans more towards dreamy, dramatic folk. Influences include Karen Dalton, Joni Mitchell, Nick Drake, Gillian Welch, Angel Olsen, Julia Jacklin and Phoebe Bridgers. Good humour trumps earnestness. And what stands out is the quality of the songwriting and arrangements, with each member contributing lyrically and musically. Sinclair and Pilkington play acoustic guitars – nylon- and steel-stringed, with fingerpicking and strumming – while Peverelle offers varied electric textures.
In “Moth Song”, we hear: “What’s on the dashboard, Heide / What are you watching, Heide?” – a glimpse of the group’s shared authorship and intimate tone. In “Cathode Ray”, the lines “No cathode ray / With a sweet release / I need a real view / From a real cheap seat” capture a desire for authenticity over detachment.
Their live shows – whether at festivals like WOMAdelaide, Riverboats, and SXSW, or on ABC’s Studio 5 Live – are described as “sensitive”, “heartfelt” and “thoughtful”, highlighting their vocal interplay and emotional presence.
The album’s title, Now Would Be a Good Time, invites urgency, honesty and connection. The trio is currently touring the United States and Canada, with UK and European dates to follow.
You can catch Folk Bitch Trio on September 20 and 21 at the Lansdowne with special guest Katy Kirby (USA).
