Fern Spores

The Historic Pearl Theater is excited to host a show by two Pacific Northwest folk rock bands, Fern Spores and Eel Sallad on May 25th at 7PM

We spoke with Alyssa Nunke of Fern Spores about her inspirations and special connection with North Idaho.

What does your band name mean to you?

So many things! I was so captivated by the beauty of coastal Washington that I wanted to intertwine that into my music. Ferns have always been one of my favorite plant families, a truly ancient species that continues to adapt and flourish. One day I was hiking and picking a band name was heavy on my mind, I was admiring a sword fern and flipped it over to see the plump rows of spores. I said “Fern Spores” out loud and a cold gust of wind blew and I got goosebumps and knew immediately I had found the name. We also strive for a sound that is more vintage, raw, and natural than a lot of modern music and wanted to convey that with the name and imagery. 

What brings you together as a band?

         We’ve all 5 daydreamed about being in an all girl band since we all started making music, so there is such a vibrant sense of sisterhood and empowerment at the core of this project. We also all share in a love of adventure, enthusiasm for community, and a deep reverence for nature. 

What do you love most about performing?

I only write the vocals/rhythm guitar and don’t give the members direction when it comes to their parts, so I’m just perpetually in awe of my band mates and the soundscape they weave around my songs. Feeling the connection between my band and me and the audience and directing that energy with my voice is such a surreal experience. 

Who are you listening to right now?

I’ve been loving Valerie Junes new album, her soulful country twang is so compelling. Also just discovered Stonefield, an all girl dark psych rock band from Australia.

Who has been your favorite artist to perform or collaborate with and who is your dream collaboration?

Probably singing a song with the Shook Twins and John Craigie a few years back. My dream collaboration would be Linda Perry, whom we are going to try to convince to produce our next album.

 You have connections to the Idaho panhandle, correct?

        I lived here for 5 years in a little off grid cabin up in the Pack River Valley.  My father and many dear friends live here so I try to come back twice a year. I now live in Olympia, WA. I attended the last few Shook Twins Giving Thanks shows at The Pearl and am so excited to sing my songs in that lovely space!

Get tickets to see Fern Spores and Eel Sallad here