Sam Edelston is revolutionizing the mountain dulcimer’s role in modern music, transforming this traditional three-stringed folk instrument into a vehicle for rock and pop. As Edelston & Dulcimer, he’s gained attention with viral covers of “Whole Lotta Love” and “I Wanna Be Sedated,” amassing over a million YouTube views. While predecessors like Joni Mitchell used the dulcimer for simple accompaniment, Edelston pushes its boundaries, proving three strings can handle the work of six. His performance of “Sweet Caroline” is now featured at Phoenix’s Musical Instrument Museum, highlighting his role in reimagining this traditional instrument for contemporary audiences.
Edelston & Dulcimer has released a debut album, “Making Waves,” featuring 15 songs.
“Making Waves” opens with “Looking at the Waves,” where Sam Edelston immediately showcases his mastery of the fretted dulcimer. The track’s summery folk-pop vibe feels genuine and unforced, with those warm, relentless string patterns creating an instantly welcoming atmosphere. At 5:30+, it’s a generous serving, but the time feels well spent as the song explores its themes of memory and connection. The raw, honest vocal delivery adds authenticity to the lyrics’ exploration of how music intertwines with our lived and imagined experiences.
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“Wild Horses” by Edelston & Dulcimer takes a gentler approach, proving that sometimes less is more. The fretted dulcimer here really gets a chance to shine – those riffs have this incredible way of speaking without words. It’s impressive how an instrumental track can convey such warmth and optimism. The piece manages to be both calming and uplifting, making it perfect for thoughtful moments or new beginnings. The production lets the natural resonance of the instrument fill the space beautifully.
“She’s Always a Woman” comes across as a heartfelt hug translated into music. The steady, gentle rhythm and those warm dulcimer riffs create this intimate atmosphere that feels deeply personal. It’s one of those songs that wraps around you like a comfortable blanket, brightening your day with its simple but sincere romanticism.
“Colour My Mind” with Teddy Parker takes the album into more contemplative territory. The deeper, melancholic dulcimer work sets up this perfect foundation for Parker’s vocals to soar. The vocal work is really something special here – the way they maintain such precise pitch control while keeping all that emotional depth intact is remarkable. The timbre of their voice has this angelic quality that elevates the entire track.
This collaboration feels perfectly suited for those solitary moments. It’s the ideal companion for a quiet evening alone with a hot cup of tea. Parker’s vocal performance brings such nuance to the introspective nature of the song, creating this immersive experience that really does color your mind.
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“Call Me” by Edelston & Dulcimer bursts out of the gate with infectious energy – those enthusiastic dulcimer riffs paired with tribal-inspired beats create this immediate momentum. When the electric guitar kicks in, it takes everything up another notch. The track’s got this irresistible drive that just makes you want to move – it’s impossible to stay still when those elements all come together. The arrangement keeps the energy high throughout, making it a real head-banger.
The cover of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by Edelston & Dulcimer shows real creativity in reimagining the Beatles classic. The calmer dulcimer opening sets up a familiar but fresh take, and those atmospheric synths add modern texture to the psychedelic favorite. Chesney Snow’s beatboxing is a brilliant addition – it’s unexpected but fits perfectly, adding this contemporary urban element to the classic tune. The way the song builds and flows, especially with that killer riff section at the end combined with the beatboxing, shows real arrangement smarts. It respects the original while bringing something completely new to the table.
The album’s closer, “Looking at the Waves – Reprise,” serves as this perfect, concise bookend to the journey. At just 45 seconds, it’s like a victory lap that brings everything full circle. Those enthusiastic dulcimer riffs and upbeat rhythms pack a lot of joy into a short time frame. It feels like Edelston & Dulcimer is literally celebrating the completion of this musical journey, and it works brilliantly as a finale – short, sweet, and triumphant.
To be a part of Edelston & Dulcimer’s musical journey, you can follow him on Instagram
Enjoy listening to “Making Waves” by Edelston & Dulcimer here.
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