Mother Mother Turns 20: New Album ‘Nostalgia’ Celebrates the Journey
Vancouver’s beloved indie band Mother Mother is turning 20, and they’re marking the milestone in style—with the release of their 10th album, Nostalgia. This record isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it’s a vibrant mix of the band’s earliest material and bold new songs that look to the future.
From Viral Hits to Global Stages
The past two decades have been a wild ride for Ryan Guldemond, Molly Guldemond, Jasmin Parkin, Ali Siadat, and Mike Young. In 2021, their 2008 single “Hayloft I” exploded on TikTok, launching the band into a fresh wave of fame. Rolling Stone called it the “niche band’s breakout,” and Mother Mother quickly followed up with “Hayloft II,” connecting with a whole new generation of fans.
Nostalgia: A Blend of Past and Present
Nostalgia lives up to its name. The album features songs that date back to the band’s beginnings—like the cheeky, long-awaited track “Finger”—as well as brand-new tunes that showcase their signature harmonies and quirky songwriting.
“In creating Nostalgia, we aimed for childlike creativity,” says Ryan Guldemond. “Every creative choice had to spark a real emotional reaction, or we let it go.”
Songs That Tell Stories
Tracks like “Love to Death,” first written during the O My Heart sessions in 2008, finally get their moment in the spotlight after years as fan-favorite bootlegs. Meanwhile, “On And On (Song for Jasmin)” stands out as a heartfelt tribute to Guldemond’s friendship with bandmate Jasmin Parkin—a relationship that has grown from romance to deep, lasting camaraderie.
Harmonies That Shine
Mother Mother’s magic lies in their vocal chemistry. Nostalgia puts this front and center, from the dreamy folk of “Station Wagon” to the energetic call-and-response of “Me & You.” The band’s three lead singers each get their moment, making the album a true showcase of their collective talent.
Acoustic Roots and Campfire Vibes
Growing up on Quadra Island, Ryan and Molly Guldemond learned the power of simple, acoustic songwriting. Many tracks on Nostalgia could be played around a campfire, and the band has even added a “campfire moment” to their live shows—something fans have come to love.
What’s Next for Mother Mother?
The band is hitting the road for a European tour this summer, with their first-ever show in Istanbul. Canadian fans can look forward to homecoming dates in 2026.
Fan Favorites: The Ultimate Setlist
With 10 albums and countless hits, picking a setlist isn’t easy. But some songs are always in demand. According to Setlist.fm, here are the top 10 Mother Mother tracks fans can’t get enough of:
Hayloft I
Bit By Bit
The Stand
O My Heart
Wrecking Ball
Ghosting
Verbatim
Burning Pile
Body of Years
Hayloft II
Looking Back, Moving Forward
Twenty years in, Mother Mother continues to evolve while staying true to their roots. Nostalgia is more than an album—it’s a celebration of creativity, friendship, and the enduring power of music. If you’re a fan, this is one release you won’t want to miss.
