Local duo Caryn Egan and Krystal Halvorson blend folk roots and seaside performances into a signature Folly Beach sound
by Miranda Steadman | Contributing Writer
Guitarist Krystal Halvorson and violist Caryn Egan first crossed paths through Charleston’s open mic circuit, introduced by vocalist Whitney Hanna at Chico Feo during The Songwriter’s Soapbox, hosted by George Fox of Big Stoner Creek and The Hopeaholics. It wasn’t until a follow-up gig together at Burns Alley in July 2023 that they realized just how closely their musical influences aligned, blending country, folk, and soulful reinterpretations into a sound uniquely their own.
Today, the duo has become a familiar presence on Folly Beach, regularly serenading audiences at Rita’s Seaside Grille.
“It’s a really special vibe out there,” says Halvorson. “There’s such a love of music and appreciation for music on Folly.”
Their performances feel right at home in a place long tied to musical history. George Gershwin famously spent time on Folly Beach while working on Porgy and Bess, often cited as the first great American musical. The iconic song “Summertime” was written on the island before going on to be performed by artists ranging from Nina Simone to Janis Joplin.
Egan and Halvorson honor that legacy with a mix of deep cuts and recognizable classics. Their setlists weave together songs like Dionne Warwick’s “Walk On By,” Roberta Flack’s “Killing Me Softly,” Des’ree’s “You Gotta Be,” and Christopher Cross’ “Sailing,” creating an easygoing soundtrack for beachgoers.
“It’s such a cool thing to walk out on the beach before and after a show,” says Egan.
The pair will return to Rita’s Seaside Grille Saturday, March 7, from 5-8 p.m. and again Tuesday, March 31, from 6-9 p.m. Earlier that same day, they will perform a brunch set at Prohibition downtown from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Halvorson also continues to collaborate with other Charleston musicians, including bassist Tony Cobin and percussionist Stacia Simmons. Simmons, known for her fusion of soul, jazz, gospel, and reggae, has performed at venues across the region, including the Gibbes Museum of Art, The Dinghy Tap Room & Kitchen, and Folly’s Bounty Bar Sunday Sessions.
Together with Egan, the trio released a holiday recording of George Michael’s “Last Christmas” under the name Daisy Chain.
“It’s encouraging and uplifting to feel support from someone so talented,” says Egan.
“There are many remarkable women artists in our community,” Halvorson adds. “It’s fun to celebrate each other and collaborate.”
That spirit carries into upcoming performances and projects. Egan will appear at this year’s Charleston Bluegrass Festival at The Woodlands, collaborating with Loren Griste of Purple Magnolia and performing alongside Gritty Flyright. She also plays with the jamgrass Americana group Wild Current, which continues to perform in honor of the late mandolin player Lee Dye.
Halvorson, meanwhile, makes occasional appearances at The Burgundy Lounge inside the Starlight Motor Inn, a jazz-forward listening room featuring some of Charleston’s most celebrated vocalists.
For both artists, however, the most meaningful moments often come during intimate live shows. During one of Rita’s performances, a listener shared how a Carole King song moved his mother, who lives with Alzheimer’s.
“Music is nourishment for the human spirit and an immediate gateway to the soul,” says Halvorson.
The duo is currently organizing a women artists’ jam at Lowlife Bar, with dates expected to be announced soon.
When she’s not performing, Halvorson enjoys sailing along the coast, an experience she says mirrors music itself.
“You’re collaborating with the elements,” she said. “Sailing teaches you to adjust your sails so you can keep cruising.”
