Seth Mountain's New EP: Is This His Greatest Work Yet?!

Seoul's folk music scene just got a fresh dose of Americana grit with the release of "Over the Mountains," the latest EP from singer-songwriter Seth Mountain. But don't let the name fool you – Seth Mountain, or rather, Seth Martin, has been making waves in Korea for quite some time now. This five-song offering marks the continuation of his decade-long "Mountain Trilogy," a project that’s clearly become more than just music; it's a personal journey.

Seth Mountain's New EP: Is This His Greatest Work ...

For those unfamiliar, Mountain's trilogy began with "This Mountain" (2016), a politically charged collection that wrestled with the turbulent landscape of U.S. politics and social issues. Following that was "Through Dark Valleys" (2021), a markedly more introspective album that delved into his experiences living in Korea. Now, "Over the Mountains" bridges the gap, drawing from material originally conceived during his early album work in Portland, Oregon, back in 2016. It's interesting how these pieces, seemingly disparate at first, are slowly coming together to form a cohesive whole.

What's particularly intriguing is that these five songs aren't just standalone tracks. Mountain plans to incorporate them into a full-length album, the final piece of the trilogy, but with a twist. He envisions reimagined versions, “mixed differently with a lot more added,” and woven into a longer, more profound narrative. He's aiming for something "less topical and more personal, philosophical, spiritual," a summit that ties everything together. It’s a bold ambition, and one that promises to be a compelling listen.

“In a way it became part of my life's work, a grand gesture, without me having really planned it to be so,” Mountain confessed. He had initially anticipated completing the project much sooner, but, as he wryly put it, "life's 'mountains' decided otherwise." I think many artists, myself included in other fields, can relate to that sentiment – how a project can unexpectedly evolve and take on a life of its own.

The full-length album is slated for release this summer or fall, so mark your calendars. In the meantime, you can catch Seth Mountain live this Saturday at Baekusaeng Makgeolli, a traditional Korean brewpub nestled in Ahyeon Market. This event is particularly special as it marks the reopening of Baekusaeng after renovations that have expanded their space for music and brewing classes. According to owner Joe Kim, the expansion allows them to “welcome more participants and continue sharing Korean brewing culture in a deeper and more meaningful way.” A great pairing: live music and homemade makgeolli!

Mountain will be joined by Kim Dae Jung and the Red Dawg String Band. Tickets are 20,000 won and include a bottle of homemade makgeolli. So, if you're looking for a unique cultural experience and some soulful folk music, head on over to Baekusaeng this Saturday. It sounds like a night that's worth climbing a few mountains for.