Dryadic the dynamic folk band led by Zora McDonald returns with their latest single, “Rainbow Family”—a stirring and deeply personal anthem that celebrates chosen families, queer identity, and the resilience of misfits. Known for weaving mythology, nature, and personal storytelling into their music, Dryadic delivers yet another evocative track that resonates with listeners across generations.
Formed in 2017 by Zora McDonald and Joanna Dziecelska—both former members of the acclaimed folk group The Tatsmiths—Dryadic has carved a unique space in the folk world. With influences drawn from European folklore and legendary acts like The Levellers, their sound is a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity, blending folk-pop, roots, and gypsy-inspired elements.
At the heart of Dryadic’s sonic identity is Zora’s passion for fiddle music, an influence sparked by childhood memories of her Uncle Pedro playing folk tunes on her grandmother’s patio. Now fronted by Zora, the band also features Aly Rainey on fiddle and George Pearson on double bass, creating a lush and textured musical experience that ranges from dreamy folk ballads to feminist protest anthems.
“Rainbow Family” emerged from a period of deep reflection and change in Zora McDonald’s life. Written while living on a canal boat in rural Gloucestershire, the song was born out of isolation during lockdown and a profound longing for connection. With LGBTQ+ themes at its core, the track beautifully encapsulates the need for chosen family and belonging, particularly within queer communities.
Musically, “Rainbow Family” thrives on heart-soaring hooks, raw and candid lyrics, and rhythmic mix-ups that bring the song’s themes to life. The instrumentation—featuring guitar, fiddle, keys, double bass, and stomp percussion—creates an uplifting yet deeply emotional listening experience, making it one of Dryadic’s most anthemic releases to date.
The accompanying music video for “Rainbow Family” is just as impactful as the song itself. Featuring cherished members of Zora’s queer community, the video is a visual love letter to chosen family, capturing the strength, love, and unity that define LGBTQ+ relationships. As they sing along in heartfelt solidarity, the message becomes clear—community is not just about blood, but about love, support, and resilience.
With “Rainbow Family,” Dryadic once again proves their ability to craft music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. By blending traditional folk storytelling with modern social themes, the band continues to push the boundaries of their genre, offering a song that is as empowering as it is heartfelt.
