In the vibrant music scene of Des Moines, Iowa, a new voice is making waves. Nathan Thiessen, an indie folk and alternative artist, has been steadily carving out a niche for himself with heartfelt lyrics, sparse yet captivating acoustic arrangements, and a commitment to authenticity. With his debut single “Comes and Goes” and an upcoming Split EP titled “Looking Back”, Nathan is poised to become a standout name in the indie music landscape.
The Story Behind the Artist
Nathan Thiessen’s journey into music is deeply personal and shaped by his love for storytelling. Drawing inspiration from some of the most influential names in indie and alternative rock—The Foo Fighters, The Strokes, Frightened Rabbit, Bright Eyes, Elliott Smith, Dead Rituals, and Pedro The Lion—he channels their emotional depth and raw energy into his own work.
While Nathan’s sound resonates with the indie folk genre, it’s his ability to blend it with alternative rock elements that set him apart. His music is intimate and reflective, characterized by stripped-down acoustic melodies that highlight his lyrics and emotional delivery.
“Comes and Goes”: A Promising Start
Released in December 2023, “Comes and Goes” marks Nathan’s debut in the music industry. The track is a testament to his songwriting prowess, tackling themes of impermanence, self-reflection, and the ebb and flow of life’s experiences. Its sparse arrangement allows listeners to focus on the depth of his lyrics, creating an immediate connection.
Listeners have praised the song for its relatability and emotional resonance, making it a compelling introduction to Nathan’s artistry. The single also highlights his ability to evoke powerful emotions using minimalistic instrumentation, a hallmark of his developing style.
“Looking Back”: Collaboration and Growth
Building on the success of his debut single, Nathan is preparing for the release of “Looking Back”, a Split EP created in collaboration with his cousin Peter Blomberg. Scheduled for release on August 16th, the EP promises to explore themes of memory, growth, and personal transformation.
Collaborating with Peter has allowed Nathan to expand his creative horizons while maintaining the authenticity that defines his work. This partnership exemplifies his commitment to creating music that resonates with listeners on a deeply personal level.
The Influence of Des Moines
As a native of Des Moines, Iowa, Nathan’s music is deeply influenced by the city’s artistic culture and community. Des Moines is home to a growing indie music scene, and Nathan’s work reflects the region’s spirit of creativity and collaboration. His roots in the Midwest are evident in the raw, unpretentious nature of his music, which feels both grounded and universal.
A Tribute to Influences
Nathan’s sound pays homage to the artists who have inspired him, while also carving out its own identity. The introspection of Elliott Smith, the anthemic quality of The Foo Fighters, and the narrative depth of Bright Eyes all find echoes in his work. Yet, Nathan’s music is uniquely his own, marked by a delicate balance between vulnerability and resilience.
This ability to blend influences while maintaining originality is a testament to Nathan’s skill as a songwriter. His songs invite listeners into his world, offering a window into his thoughts and experiences.
What’s Next for Nathan Thiessen?
With a debut single already earning praise and an EP on the horizon, Nathan’s future in music looks bright. As he continues to build his discography, his focus remains on crafting songs that speak to the human experience.
In addition to his recorded work, Nathan is expected to bring his music to live audiences, where his stripped-down acoustic sound can truly shine. For fans of indie folk and alternative music, his performances promise to be an intimate and unforgettable experience.
Stay Connected
To keep up with Nathan Thiessen’s journey, follow him on Instagram at @nathanthiessenmusic. There, fans can find updates on upcoming releases, behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative process, and announcements about live performances.
Listeners can also stream “Comes and Goes” on Spotify to experience the heartfelt songwriting that is quickly becoming Nathan’s signature. Listen to the track here.
Final Thoughts
Nathan Thiessen’s emergence as an artist is a testament to the power of authenticity in music. His ability to connect with listeners through honest, introspective songwriting sets him apart in an industry often dominated by overproduction and superficial trends.
As he continues to grow and develop his craft, Nathan remains focused on creating music that is as honest as it is evocative. With a promising start and an exciting project on the way, Nathan Thiessen is undoubtedly an artist to watch in the indie music scene.
Whether you’re a fan of indie folk, alternative rock, or simply great storytelling, Nathan’s music offers something special. Don’t miss the chance to follow his journey—it’s only just beginning
