Cardiff State

Cardiff State is a music duo from Nashville, TN, and Carlsbad,

CA. The pair aims to connect with listeners who

appreciate an old-school approach to both making and experiencing

music. The married musicians have crafted a bespoke sound by

combining rich acoustic textures with earnest melodies, resulting in an

indie folk flavor that resonates deeply with their audience. Fans of artists

such as Damien Rice, Rue Royale, Bright Eyes, Iron & Wine, and Wilco

will find a strong connection with Cardiff State’s music.

The duo debuted in 2015 with the EP Unhaunted, a five-song collection

that explores various directions while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

The opener, Distance, is a modern Americana piece with hints of indie

rock, while the title track is a mellow, dreamy ballad with an alternative

edge, still rooted in the band's organic sound. Seasons, the third song

on the release, embraces a late-'90s indie folk sensibility, whereas

Inside My Prison places acoustic guitars at the forefront, accompanied

by a moving vocal performance and subtle instrumentation that adds

color and depth. The closing track, He Loves You, perfectly

encapsulates the band's dynamic approach, proving that their “less is

more” philosophy results in songs with soul and heart.

In 2020, Cardiff State released the single Manifest Destiny, an

outstanding example of their ability to build expansive sounds with a

minimalistic approach. Articulate acoustic guitar arpeggios and subtle

percussion, such as shakers, create an organic tone that highlights the

powerful lyrics and intimate soundscape. Additional layers of percussion

and bass further round out the arrangement, adding depth while

maintaining the duo's signature restraint.

Now, Cardiff State is preparing to release their latest single, State Line,

which will be available on April 5, 2025.