Immaterial Possession

Hailing from Athens, Georgia, Immaterial Possession weaves an enigmatic fusion of folk, psychedelia, world music, and progressive rock that draws audiences into an entirely singular universe. Their approach remains inviting even as it ventures beyond conventional limits, anchoring itself in pop structures while cultivating an outlook that defies them and sustaining an undercurrent of delight amid occasional darker passages. The band first appeared with the self-titled debut album in 2020; two years later, Mercy of the Crane Folk demonstrated a clearer command of their vision and greater technical confidence.

Cooper Holmes and Madeline Polites, both multidisciplinary creators originally based in Atlanta, established the group after participating in that city’s D.I.Y. underground network of musicians, visual artists, and stage performers. Seeking more expansive surroundings than Atlanta could provide, the pair moved to nearby Athens, a college town long known within Georgia for its independent and unconventional spirit. Holmes took up bass and vocals while Polites handled guitar and vocals; they soon recruited seasoned percussionist John Spiegel along with keyboardist and woodwinds player Kiran Fernandes, whose father, John Kiran Fernandes, performed with the renowned Elephant 6 collective Olivia Tremor Control. Outfitted in elaborate costumes and intent on delivering performances meant to transport and reshape listeners, Immaterial Possession quickly developed a singular standing in Athens, prompting the Elephant 6-linked imprint Cloud Recordings to release their debut in 2020. Positive response to the record attracted the attention of the British independent label Fire Records, which signed the band and reissued Immaterial Possession in 2022. Work on the follow-up album commenced promptly, resulting in the May 2023 release of Mercy of the Crane Folk on Fire.