Mikel Rafael, a rising voice in the folk and Americana scene, brings poetic lyricism, haunting melodies, and a rare depth of feeling to his work—a blend that feels both timeless and freshly relevant. With his latest single, ‘A Shield and a Sword’, Mikel presents an evocative piece inspired by Homer’s The Iliad, but its message is firmly rooted in today’s world, dedicated to the courage of Ukraine’s soldiers.
Rafael’s music draws on a unique blend of influences: Celtic traditions, rock, and literary classicism. His artistry shines in his ability to weave these elements into a cohesive soundscape that reaches both backward and forward in time. ‘A Shield and a Sword’ is emblematic of his approach—a contemplative and heartfelt work that combines folk and Americana traditions with the soul of a Celtic ballad, marked by touches of rock’s grit.
Written in 2020, ‘A Shield and a Sword’ was born from Mikel’s deep connection to literature. The song took shape after he read the iconic scene in The Iliad where Hector, knowing the likely outcome, bids farewell to his family before returning to the battlefield. This moment of love, courage, and fate, rendered thousands of years ago, echoes poignantly in Mikel’s song, which captures not only the heartbreak of departure but also the resilience that keeps us moving forward.
In ‘A Shield and a Sword’, Mikel captures the timelessness of human struggle, fusing epic tragedy with his poetic touch. “I strive to create music that feels like it could have been written yesterday or a thousand years ago,” Mikel says. “My goal is for listeners to feel like they’ve known these songs their whole life.” This sentiment rings true in the song, where listeners are drawn into a world that is at once ancient and immediate.
By dedicating ‘A Shield and a Sword’ to Ukrainian soldiers, Mikel draws a powerful connection between Homeric heroism and the strength and sacrifices made by today’s fighters for freedom. The song becomes more than a poetic meditation on courage; it stands as a tribute, a call to remember the enduring spirit of those who stand up against overwhelming odds. It’s a bold and timely step for an artist still early in his journey, one that reveals the breadth of his vision.
Mikel’s music is the product of a slow and deliberate process, one where every word and melody is considered, refined, and shaped over time. His dedication to fine-tuning each piece—often with trusted friends and through live performance—sets him apart in today’s rapid-release culture. ‘A Shield and a Sword’ embodies this devotion to his craft; every note and lyric resonates with intentionality and a quiet intensity that stays with listeners long after the song ends.
Mikel’s upcoming EP, The Eternal Hour, promises to delve even deeper into the human condition, with songs that explore themes of social isolation and mental illness. In tackling these challenging topics, Mikel remains true to his introspective, hope-filled style, inviting listeners to connect with emotions often left unspoken.
As Mikel Rafael continues to carve his niche in the music world, ‘A Shield and a Sword’ marks an exciting milestone, signaling his potential to influence and inspire. His music, with its reflective spirit and timeless quality, offers a counterpoint to the fast pace of contemporary culture, inviting listeners to pause, reflect, and feel deeply. In an age of instant gratification, Mikel’s poetic artistry and thoughtful approach are a rare gift. With this release, he has given the world not only a song but an anthem for resilience—a story told in melody that resonates across time and speaks to the courage within us all.
