Over the past 15 years, Ryan Gustafson of The Dead Tongues has become a standout voice in modern folk, blending spectral introspection with irresistible hooks.

Albums like Dust, Unsung Passage, and Desert have solidified his reputation, and his latest works, Body of Light and I Am a Cloud, add 16 compelling new songs to his catalog.

Born in a secluded North Carolina cabin dubbed “the Shack,” these albums draw from Gustafson’s deep connection to nature and creative exploration.

Tracks like “Daylily” and “I’m a Cloud Now” reflect themes of identity and love, while improvisational sessions with collaborators such as Jenn Wasner (Wye Oak) and Matt Douglas (The Mountain Goats) brought spontaneity and warmth to the recordings.

Body of Light explores soulful anthems and poignant reflections like “Dirt for a Dying Sun” and “Moon Shadow,” while I Am a Cloud dives into improvisational tone poems and meditations, including the transcendent closer “Even Here, Even Now.”

Together, these albums showcase Gustafson’s evolution, capturing his ability to transform uncertainty into beauty and sound into sanctuary.