Molly Sarlé: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Watch IMolly Sarlé play "Human", "Karaoke Angel" and "Almost Free" at the Tiny Desk.
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Oct. 4, 2019 | Bob Boilen -- Molly Sarlé began her fascination with the multitude of objects shelved behind the Tiny Desk back when she sang with Mountain Man earlier this year. This time, with her own band, those objects left by others inspired a tale of a sweaty towel, an old lover and more.
At the heart of Molly Sarlé's songs are stories. Sometimes they feel like dreamy inner thoughts loosely connected. "Human," her opening cut, is one of my very favorite songs of 2019. It may simply be a breakup song; but its wisdom is in recognizing our individual flaws, being OK with them and even finding pleasure in being imperfect beings.
I've been watching Ken Burns' Country Music documentary, and listening to Molly Sarlé sing here at the Tiny Desk - and then hearing the Carter Family in the documentary - I truly can imagine Molly as a soul from a century gone by. She's a captivating performer who sings as much with her eyes as she does her voice.
The songs Molly Sarlé performed at theTiny Desk are all from her debut solo album, Karaoke Angel. These songs aren't frivolous - they're thoughtful snapshots of life. Just before singing her final tune, "Almost Free," Molly cleared her throat and said this song is "about my dad wanting to talk to me about committing suicide - and it turns out writing a song about your dad talking to you about wanting to commit suicide is a great way to shift the conversation, because now we just talk about this song." Molly Sarlé laughed a bit about the absurdity and truth of it all and, with what I sense as holding back a tear, sang a powerful, personal song in an awkward, open office space. It took hold of my emotions and thoughts as only a great songwriter and singer can and I'm grateful for that.
SET LIST
"Human"
"Karaoke Angel"
"Almost Free"
MUSICIANS
Molly Sarlé: vocals; Brian Betancourt: bass; Austin Vaughn: drums; Adam Brisbin: guitar
CREDITS
Producers: Bob Boilen, Morgan Noelle Smith; Creative Director: Bob Boilen; Audio Engineers: Josh Rogosin, James Willetts; Videographers: Morgan Noelle Smith, Kimani Oletu, Bronson Arcuri, CJ Riculan; Associate Producer: Bobby Carter; Production Assistant: Paul Georgoulis; Executive Producer: Lauren Onkey; VP, Programming: Anya Grundmann; Photo: Shuran Huang/NPR

[@zach6907]

I always get annoyed when people say music isn't good anymore. It is great. It's just a shame this isn't whats popular. This is fucking fantastic.

[@masterxyr]

hear hear their brains and ears don't listen anymore

[@martinpose8084]

I really enjoy the fact that her guitar matches her eye color

[@dbauernf]

LOL, that's a sick observation, I love it!

[@zyxwvut4740]

…and the headstock, even the _strap_ ! Her scrunch almost matches, but it's a bit dark.

[@SmithsonLeverage]

I just found about Molly right now. Currently downloading everything. Human is an incredibly and beautifully constructed song vocally and instrumentally. Thank you.

[@leighhayworth]

I listen to this almost everyday while I’m getting ready. Very Joni Mitchell-esque Beautiful melody. Beautiful lyrics. Beautiful voice from a beautiful lady.

[@andrewpugliese9927]

Absolute GEM of a Tiny Desk. I listened to this having never heard of her or any of her associated acts. In the middle of her Karaoke song it is apparent that you are in the presence of an eccentric musical genius. She channels her emotional intelligence into something really beautiful.

[@victoriabennett3789]

She's genuine and unaffected. I like that a lot.

[@christ8200]

It is indeed another Tiny Desk gem to be played over and over to find more loveliness each time through. Echoes of Joni, poignant lyrics, mesmerizing eyes and presence. Molly Sarle is one to follow, thank you.

[@imnotsosure1526]

The first line of "human" scratches the most satisfying itch in my brain.

[@Jacob32905]

Man, I love songs that just tell stories in a super effortless, and thoughtful way. I may not be able to relate to the content but listening to honesty and feeling part of another person's journey for even a few minutes is really all the magic of music if you ask me.

[@lee-sq6ob]

Subtlety is what distinguishes artists from entertainers.

[@CronoXpono]

I was lucky enough to see Molly and Andy Shauf on the same night in Knoxville TN. What. A. Freaking. Night! Love her voice and how much I have to focus on her singing. It’s like she’s not gonna let me skate by passively hearing her, intensely effective live! ❤️

[@GwenISayJump]

She has perfect pitch. Her voice sounds like a flute. Wow.

[@jodicrain4500]

What an interesting thing to note. And I didn't notice until you said it; and then in Karaoke Angel -- BOOM- there it was. Mind blown.

[@ginagraham8616]

GD beautiful voice ... and no husky vocal fry which has become so popular with many female singers these days... breath of fresh air

[@1gaia]

Joanna Newsom has that same quality in her voice in her later work.

[@snowstrobe]

Best intersong anecdote ever.

[@madiganrios8865]

why is the first song making me cry why am i crying

[@ginagraham8616]

What a stunning singer songwriter - love her clear no-vocal-fry voice and her stories - beautifully, simply told. I wouldn't have come across this gal if it wasn't for NPR Tiny Desk. Thankyou

[@durwoodball4062]

Beautiful songs delivered by a beautiful voice. Wow! I love the stories and the intimate performances. Sarle is delightful in Mountain Man and as a solo performer. The band perfectly frames her songs and voice.

[@sebastiannai4381]

4:30 hands down the funniest and most spontaneous in between song story I've heard in many hundreds of these Tiny Desks

[@tsopuaifa]

They look so sad and happy, all at the same time. Beautiful.

[@Gamubi]

157k views and 3k likes and their actual channel only has 700 subscribers. Help support these new artists so others can find them and they can get some recognition...breath of fresh air for new music .

[@Lotta_Llamas]

That drummer is SMASHING!!!

[@MemphiStig]

i'm overjoyed to discover this amazingly talented musician and enchanting woman, but i'm equally distressed that she isn't much more popular and well-known. that was just beautiful. listened twice immediately and will come back for more.

[@gordonanderson3111]

LOVE this - there are so few artists that can find a guitar (and strap) to match their eyes AND keep their eyes wide open when they sing!

[@jodicrain4500]

RIGHT!!! Keeping my eyes open when I sing on stage is SOOOOOOO hard! She really does keep 'em open!

[@pearlmarley]

Whomever is reading this remember to spread as much LOVE AS POSSIBLE, don't litter, help out the homeless and take of nature please it's really important we gotta take care of eachother and mother earth. thank you and have a blessed life ❤

[@sammywestenberger9303]

You're welcome

[@masterxyr]

Delicious versions!! Love the drummer vibe, the man is in his cloud. Gosh, I miss playing with other people. The partaking of that communal and musical intimacy. Great job guys, and of course, love you Molly. Make more soooooooonnnnnngggggssssss, pretty please :)

[@wanttogotoengland]

This whole performance was insanely beautiful.

[@EmilyDesmond]

I hear so much Joni in Molly and it’s exactly what I needed this morning. Molly, you write and sing so beautifully

[@micky_knuckles]

the "sweat rag" story is the most relatably unrelatable thing I have ever heard. she is a glorious gift.

[@mayaerlandson4481]

She’s incredible, such a talented songwriter

[@nitsoin]

Any more time I appreciate the work done by sound producers. Great music and great sound! What a pleasure.

[@thejosie]

I'm not trying to go to sleep crying, dang NPR 😭😭😭 She's so gooood

[@starrr365]

I used to love her in Mountain Man but I think her new stuff is even better😃

[@kalebmaskill8776]

Molly is a great performer, saw her a little while back. What a pleasure to see her behind the desk. Check out the album, this is definitely a storyteller who deserves her own spotlight.

[@volcaniadread]

i like this chord progression ...just like that strokes song "you only live once" 💙

[@loonylunya]

you mean I'll try anything once :p

[@volcaniadread]

@@nicktaylor1902 i would write IV V III- VI- ;)

[@Shaun-Doggy]

that first song is gold, well done sister

[@MsSmoothieking]

Discovered her here and then watched her videos. She is so pure and straightforward here. The videos don’t seem to capture her.....

[@gordonmarthur315]

I can't express how Perfect this delivery is. Fantastic Production and Boy Band; setting the stage for something extraordinary to happen.

[@brunabarros9124]

I have never heard of her but man Almost Free hit me hard! I want to listen everything that she makes.

[@pineconeghost1586]

This is one of those Tiny Desk's where I started listening having never heard of the artist before and 17 minutes later I'm trying to throw cash at anyone who can get me a copy of Karaoke Angel ASAP.

[@bruno_p]

You can get it at her bandcamp page mate!

[@CronoXpono]

Saw her live opening for Andy Shauf Sunday and she’s worth it in spades! Love her voice!!!!

[@petronellawiid5438]

If you like this also give Ma Polaine's Great Decline a listen😊

[@sydneyward3417]

I cant believe she sing that song about her dad without crying cos i am a sobbing baby right now! Omg

[@alloutofspace]

Karaoke Angel is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. Glad I could find Molly Sarlé and the crew

[@flowersafeheart]

Anyone enjoying this, check out her music videos. They're super beautifully made and bring the songs to life. Actually that's often the case with great musicians! So awesome Molly is part of Mountain Man and sang back-up for Feist, love music and music videos by all those musicians.

[@baldkea]

I can understand why her band are all so completely focused and full of Aroha/love toward each song. Yeah, to my ear, there's a hint or tribute to Joni, both in quality of voice and song structure, but Molly and her band take it into a new, deeper, more personal realm. Listening to this performance, there was a couple of times I choked up and felt like I wanted to get down on my knees and weep about past loss.

[@sheenaperez1882]

Never heard of her but I loved this..

[@sofiasoddu-smith5106]

first off molly is so funny and second yes i def hear the joni vibes. love her harmonies with the gals of mountain man and love her solo too

[@SmithsonLeverage]

Thank you for this magical performance.

[@igorlaniella465]

I returned to play the guitar thanks to this mini concert. I need my daily dose Of it. It’s sad that Karaoke Angel it is not available anymore on its own.

[@user-bk6df5tm8y]

Karaoke Angel has a big Aimee Mann vibe . Love it. Molly is a treasure.

[@flyingcheff]

10 seconds in and I already love the guitar, sooo sweet.

[@hello.jennarae]

the folks of mandolin orange posted on their instagram a little while back that karaoke angel was the only album we all should be listening to . i’m so glad to have stumbled upon that . molly holds so much grace . . and that blue guitar oh my goodness 💙 🕊

[@leomurphy8271]

So beautiful ahhhhh, you're tearing me apart Molly

[@JohnDoe-kq8dx]

Saw Molly open for Andy Shauf in Edmonton. Beyond incredible.

[@rubydelaney3431]

this is an insane pairing

[@mattyc76.]

A truly beautiful performance......that voice.... Spell bounding almost....only discovered Molly Sarle' a month or so ago but it's safe to say she has a new fan x

[@baldkea]

Molly's voice has a unique quality (i.e. is totally different in tone and 'character' from any other singer I've heard. Even with the obvious comparison to Joni Mitchell, there's something completely special/different/unique going on which clearly differentiates her voice and songs into being extraordinary. Her voice caresses the ear and the lyrics, the brain :)

[@superlady2960]

This was my favorite tiny desk ever

[@loserbiotch2]

wow this is the first time i’ve seen her outside of mountain man. incredible

[@iemay2014]

Меня перенесли в 70-е годы!!!! Белоснежка и три гнома!!!! Люблю вас!!!!

[@woebegone_kenobi]

This was well needed. I always felt that the other two in Mountain man usually over shadowed her. Not because she's a worse singer/artist, but just because how the energy was dispersed. So seeing her shine like this in all her glory was a treat. Thank you npr, thank you Molly

[@paulroberts3686]

This is just the right amount of chill I need in my day, great artist and story teller

[@earthentonespublication2073]

This is such a beautiful song, beautifully sung and so true how we can project and idealise. lovely

[@Phillipmaite]

true artistry...i love her...that stare...damn!!!!

[@davidb5824]

That guitar player is sure having a blast playing his guitar. Love his energy

[@matty7274]

I’ve watched this too many times now

[@vonchorsen]

I’ve been a fan of Molly’s for years now via Mountain Man, and she delivered here, but that guitarist with her is crazy good. So subtle and restrained.

[@devanw6542]

she's a treasure

[@old513fpv5]

Beautiful.

[@belenlg5978]

So beautiful. Make these tiny desk concerts longer godammit

[@georgefairweathermoonlight4]

i love the drummers mow, keep it for life , dude

[@CrazyLazyDave]

Nice touch how that guitar strap and guitar match her eyes 👍

[@skyrunr]

The tracks before this one were a bunch of awful drum kits with 3x many likes! PFFFFT! All I can say is THIS is HOW you play Tiny Desk! No drum kits, no makeup, no gimmicks (okay I liked the "Chai" act thing because they made me smile,) no hiding, just being yourselves. Thank you Mully & crew, thank you! I hope those conversations go on and on and on.

Thank you for this NPR Gods

[@elrapaz7484]

I got real feelings at the minute 14... Thank you!

[@AguarImperatus]

Thx`s Molly, greetings from Germany :-)

[@HM-th9so]

She's so perfect. That classic voice is amazing. Lana Del Ray meets Fleetwood Mac. Check out Mountain Man if you haven't. All three women are beautiful.

[@gracebrowne569]

Tiny Desk fuels my entire Spotify playlist

[@LutherBottrill]

Yes!

[@okrabme]

What about rap music hd

[@gregleonard1562]

@@okrabme Get real. Keep it real. Be real And feel..

[@clumsiii]

She sings like if Joni Mitchell was actually chill

[@Gigi-hy9th]

YES

[@Queerpunx]

Checking comments to see if anyone else heard Joni Mitchell vibes. This comment is so true!

[@margaretforsey7763]

Haha! This comment is hilarious! And true. She sounds remarkably like Joni.

[@LasseFernov]

Nah man ... Joni Mitchell sings like if Joni Mitchell was actually chill.

[@DanielC__]

clumsiii how in the world could anyone get a Joni vibe from this? What a horrible life you must lead. Joni has more talent in a nail clipping. This is misery inducing.

[@mxpmw]

Fantastic.....great sound, a wonderful voice and very unique/cool........

[@jn2400]

Has less than 2k subs on her own channel. Hope some people look her up and give her some love.

[@feedmestrawberries2178]

Incredible voice, of course, but, wow, such an amazing band!

[@johncollins636]

She’s wonderful in mountain man. I’m glad she has her own thing going on as well like esso

[@redshift912]

Check out daughter of swords . The other member from mountain . They are all good 👍

[@senorbeckon]

Nothing other than a human... but what is a human, exactly? To hear Molly sing is to wonder deeply.

[@4fmagnet]

Wow, what a beautiful voice.

[@contactkdsmith]

Now I'm really excited to see them open for Wilco later this month!

[@guiturtlewood]

I clicked for the teal guitar

[@alexe8370]

Is it a Silvertone? Can't quite tell. *Yep it's a 60's Silvertone.

[@gregleonard1562]

@David Carr and also to match her blue personality too :))

[@pmers]

1:53 or there abouts. When the guitarist plays a little playful vibratto thing. Check out the smiles on them. A little bit of musical magic right there. Inside joke maybe, delivered with skill and humanity.

[@yucanovichi]

Muy buena cantante y banda!!! Me llenó el alma de emociones buenas!!

[@GregThorneKTM500NB]

Beautiful... Such subtleties!

[@OrSaar]

whats life without NPR ???? thank you so much

[@sydneyward3417]

This is so pure and beautiful

[@nigelpeters7274]

Absolutely love this

[@mundomagico7787]

Second song- the band sounds very Neil Young - Harvest years … with Joni singing ❤

[@zeeeOgre]

Dang - this is really good. Thanks for introducing me to another fine artist/ensemble. Great post.

[@sammywestenberger9303]

You're welcome

[@Specificpickle]

Check out mountain man ( she is in it) and then also Sylvan Esso! (Another band from a mountain main member)

[@IraMcCully]

Wow! I've never seen another guitar like mine played. Nice mint green silvertone!

[@cloudcity_brandon4913]

You ever almost clap at the end of a Tiny Desk song from the couch?

[@theempresss]

I clap

[@thetertzug231]

Almost ??

[@isaaclavoie5039]

So often, this program is a real blessing.

[@DanielC__]

CloudCity _Brandon You might get the clap listening to this.

[@haw_n_thorne]

Synergy Technology Imaging pshaw

[@Screamifyoumeanit]

A lovely concert... Heart to mind to florish.

[@selwyntracey3871]

So fresh. I enjoyed this, great voice.

[@BlazedWeed]

Unbelievably good

[@mrwizard6787]

I had a very good time watching this !

[@bikeboysyd292]

Almost Free just broke my heart

[@TheMissOmni]

What a wonderful tune of subtle mellow and sweetness that I mistook initially for a young Joan Baez.

[@StudioStray]

she's terrific!