Sylvan Esso, the dynamic duo of Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn, has become a cornerstone of Durham’s artistic community. Their creative partnership has evolved far beyond music, fostering an ecosystem that supports and inspires other musicians. As they prepare to release their highly anticipated album, Ow ∞ due out on September 11, they reflect on their journey and the spirit of their hometown.
The duo’s collaboration began with a simple goal: creating music together. Over the years, it has blossomed into a multifaceted creative endeavor. They launched Psychic Hotline, established Betty’s recording studio, produced the Good Moon Festival, and collaborated with a diverse range of artists. This evolution, they explain, was a natural response to the growing needs of their community and their own artistic aspirations.
Building a Creative Ecosystem
The decision to create Betty’s recording studio in Chapel Hill was driven by necessity. As their projects grew, they needed a dedicated space to work on their music and those of their peers. This led to the establishment of Psychic Hotline, their record label, which gave them the freedom to release their own work and support other artists.
The Good Moon Festival, another brainchild of Sylvan Esso, began as a modest event at Shakori Hills Community Arts Center in 2017. Over the years, it has grown and evolved, with the duo experimenting with different formats and venues. In 2021, they hosted three nights at the Historic Durham Athletic Park, and in 2024, they moved to the new Durham Bulls Athletic Park. This year, they aim to make the festival more integrated with the city, activating multiple spaces in downtown Durham to make it more accessible to a broader audience.
The Heart of Durham’s Music Scene
Durham has always been a magnet for creative individuals, attracting artists and innovators with its affordable living and vibrant culture. Sylvan Esso’s decision to stay and invest in the city has paid off, not just for their careers but for the broader creative community. The city’s supportive environment and willingness to take chances on new artists have been empowering for the duo.
The music scene in Durham has seen significant changes over the past decade. The presence of Merge Records and North Carolina Central University has provided a constant draw and produced a diverse range of artists. From electronic to bluegrass to jazz, the scene is always evolving, which keeps it exciting and unpredictable. The emergence of new venues and the ascent of local bands like Verity Den have further energized the community.
Reimagining the Good Moon Festival
For the upcoming Good Moon Festival, Sylvan Esso wanted to try something different. They envisioned the Durham Performing Arts Center as the main hub, with various downtown venues hosting different shows. This format allows attendees to walk from one venue to another, creating a more immersive and inclusive experience. The duo hopes this new approach will bring a fresh energy to the festival and reflect the dynamic nature of Durham’s music scene.
As Sylvan Esso continues to innovate and inspire, their commitment to Durham and its creative community remains unwavering. Their upcoming album, Ow ∞ is a testament to their artistic growth and collaboration with a wide range of musicians. With tracks like Plastic Sword and Concrete Glen the album promises to be a captivating Journey Through their unique sound and creative process.
