Watchhouse, formerly known as Mandolin Orange, is an Americana/folk duo hailing from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It was formed in 2009 by songwriter Andrew Marlin (vocals, mandolin, guitar, banjo) and Emily Frantz (vocals, violin, guitar). The duo has become a significant force in the contemporary folk music scene. The duo, who are also married, have crafted a distinctive sound characterized by their harmonious vocals and instrumental prowess, drawing deeply from American roots music.
A steady rise in popularity marked the band’s early years under the name Mandolin Orange. Their debut album, Quiet Little Room (2010), introduced audiences to their mellow, introspective style. They followed this with Haste Make/Hard Hearted Stranger (2011) and This Side of Jordan (2013), their first release under the Yep Roc Records label. This Side of Jordan showcased their growth as artists, with songs that delved into themes of love, loss, and the human experience. Tracks like “House of Stone” and “There Was a Time” resonated with listeners, cementing their reputation in the Americana genre.
The duo subsequent albums, Such Jubilee (2015) and Blindfaller (2016), continued to build on their success. Such Jubilee featured heartfelt songs such as “Old Ties and Companions” and “Jump Mountain Blues,” while Blindfaller included the critically acclaimed “Wildfire.” These albums demonstrated the duo’s ability to blend traditional folk elements with contemporary themes, earning them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
In 2019, the duo released Tides of a Teardrop, a deeply personal album reflecting on Marlin’s grief over his mother’s early death. The album’s poignant lyrics and emotive melodies struck a chord with listeners, with tracks like “Golden Embers” and “The Wolves” becoming fan favorites. The same year, Mandolin Orange was featured on CBS This Morning’s Saturday Morning Sessions, further solidifying their place in the folk music landscape.
The turning point for the duo came in April 2021 when they announced a name change to Watchhouse. Marlin explained that the name Mandolin Orange no longer represented their artistic vision, and Watchhouse, inspired by a childhood hunting cabin, better reflected their true intentions. This name change symbolized a new chapter for the duo, one of reinvention and artistic growth.
Under the new moniker, Watchhouse released their self-titled album in 2021. This album marked a departure from their previous work, embracing a more experimental folk-rock sound. Tracks like “Better Way” and “Belly of the Beast” showcased their willingness to explore new musical territories while maintaining the lyrical depth and harmony that defined their earlier works. The album was produced with the help of Josh Kaufman, whose influence helped Marlin and Frantz push their creative boundaries.
In 2024, Watchhouse’s musical journey continued with their participation in notable festivals such as the Newport Folk Festival, Austin City Limits, and Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Their live performances, characterized by intimate and powerful renditions of their songs, have captivated audiences across the U.S. and Europe.
Watchhouse’s discography reflects their evolution as artists, from their early days as Mandolin Orange to their current incarnation. Their commitment to crafting authentic, emotionally resonant music has remained constant, even as they explore new sounds and ideas. As they move forward, Watchhouse continues to be a beacon of contemporary Americana/folk music, inviting listeners to join them on their ever-evolving musical journey.
