Benny Bleu (USA)

Benny Bleu is the stage name of Benjamin Haravitch, a folk musician and former geologist from the Finger Lakes region of New York. His background in geology shapes his songwriting, finding meaning in deep time and ecological connection. A clawhammer banjo player and singer-songwriter, he released March of the Mollusk (2023), an album of instrumental banjo tunes, and has been a finalist in the Appalachian String Band Banjo Contest. He is releasing his next album in summer 2026. His recordings balance thoughtful lyricism with expressive instrumental work, inviting listeners to slow down and engage more closely with their surroundings.

Featured Songs:

"Serenity Song," which originally appeared on Benny Bleu’s 2019 album Warm Prickly and featured on Putumayo's 2024 release Folk Café, describes the challenge of coping with the sudden loss of a loved one. Through its poignant and contemplative melodies, the music captures a sense of quiet reflection and carries a touch of vintage blues. “You can try to tell a tree that it's rooted in rocky soil / Like you can try to tell a truck that it uses too much oil / But that tree is gonna grow and that truck is gonna go / And you'll be left with all intentions spoiled.”

The American Roots track, “All I Want to Be” is rooted in a backyard moment of wonder: spotting a 375-million-year-old fossil under a pricker bush. Out of that mundane scene came a meditation on belonging and awe. Haravitch plays banjo, Rhodes piano, and lead vocals, joined by Huck Tritsch on drums, Eric Heveron-Smith on upright bass, and Gus Tritsch on fiddles. “I contemplate infinity / I experience awe / Take a step outside my door and I drop my jaw / I’m here / That’s all I want to be.”

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