The Thought Lot hosted a show on Oct. 2 focusing on folk bands instead of the typical punk rock or open mic nights for which it is known.

The Pale Barn Ghosts, a band originating from south central Pennsylvania, started off the evening. They described their sound as “cemetery folk,” which is a clever play on their band name and have a mellow, unique sound that went spectacularly with the ambient atmosphere.

Though it was a slow start to the night, The Pale Barn Ghosts rocked the stage for the close friends and fans who were there. The small, relaxed crowd only added to the cozy vibe and lead singer, Thomas Roue, showed his appreciation when he mentioned how awesome it was to be performing for the other bands who took up much of the audience.

The Hello Strangers took over the stage for a slightly larger crowd and kicked off their set with a more upbeat, folk sound that had the audience on their feet. According to the band’s Facebook page, they are a “sister duo whose haunting harmonies and original, wittingly noir songwriting style are the backbone of their sound.” Haunting is the perfect word to describe the harmonies the sisters Brechyn Chace and Larissa Chace Smith produced.

The crowd settled into the many couches spread throughout the venue when a few slow songs were played. Brechyn broke out an accordion for their song “Poor Dear,” showing another one of the group’s many talents. Audience member Peter Franklin said, “I’m good friends with the Hello Strangers and they’re always good. The last band was good, too.”

The final and headlining band, Mike Mangione & the Union, is another Americana, folk/pop band. The band describes itself as “a group that combines a folk-rock sound with an orchestrated string section, soulful vocals and literate sensibility.”

The show was advertised as being Mike Mangione & the Union’s CD release party.

The Thought Lot hosts shows several times a month. For more information, visit facebook.com/thethoughtlot.

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