In the latest episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English sits down with Siri Undlin, the creative force behind the Minneapolis-based indie-folk project Humbird. Following the release of her acclaimed 2024 album Right On, Undlin offers a refreshing perspective on the endurance required to be an independent artist today. Known for her "Midwestern gothic" storytelling and ethereal vocals, Undlin has built a reputation through albums like Freefall and Still Life, earning praise from Rolling Stone and NPR for her ability to weave folklore into modern Americana.

In this conversation, the dialogue moves beyond typical tour schedules to explore three core themes:

1. The Rhythm of "Hibernation" Undlin views the creative process as a seasonal cycle. As she wraps up her fall tour, she speaks candidly about the necessity of retreating. “I think winter is just a natural time to hibernate and work on new things,” she explains. For Undlin, this isn't just a break—it's a vital stage of the "release cycle" where the seeds for the next project are planted in the quiet of a Minnesota winter.

2. Music as a Witness to Place The conversation explores how Undlin’s environment shapes her sound. Living in Minneapolis during years of profound social and political upheaval has infused her work with a sense of grounded urgency. Her songwriting serves as a way to process the "heart-wrenching" reality of the world, making her music feel like both a witness to history and a personal sanctuary.

3. Choosing Lightness in Heavy Times Perhaps the most surprising takeaway is Undlin’s shift toward the "goofy." While much of her catalog is known for its depth and reflection, she reveals that her upcoming work leans into silliness as an act of resilience. "There’s a time for music that really makes you think and reflect," Undlin says, "and then I think there's a time to also add some lightness... we’re gonna put out some silly love songs and just go with that."

This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in how an artist maintains their curiosity while navigating the "messy" reality of a creative career. It is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most radical thing a songwriter can do is stay light.