Scales in Antiquity, Episode 1, Song Title: Limelight
Scales in Antiquity is a solo music project of multi-instrumentalist Dan Morgan. Using modern audio recording technology, the result is a sound that is both fluid and rigid, organic and mechanical, and intense, dark, brooding, and optimistic all in one breath. Find Dan on Instagram @scalesinantiquity, Facebook, Youtube, Spotify, or Bandcamp.
Steve Noonan, Episode 2, Song Title: Left Blind
Steve Noonan, a former recording engineer for Prince, is a blend of influences: 70’s artists like Neil Young and Warren Zevon; and 80’s post modern bands like The Cure and Echo &The Bunnymen. The end results are clear vocals entwined in pleasingly connected sections, all surrounded by his 12-string guitar’s lush open chords. His 2009 self-titled EP release established a sound in Minneapolis that is his own. The 2012 release of his second EP, A Mile Long, represented a new level to Noonan’s music. Enlisting Dustin Burnett—a Nashville area producer—the record further highlighted Steve Noonan’s lyrical ability, and explored the emotion that a bigger, fuller rock arrangement can evoke from his well-crafted songs. His third record, I Could Be Anywhere, also recorded in Nashville with Dustin Burnett on the project, showcases Noonan’s evolving artistry within a harder edge. Instagram: @stevenoonansongs
Check out his website for more information!
Tess Vollom, Episode 3, Song Title: Somebody Else
Tess is an up and coming singer-songwriter originally from International Falls, MN but is currently based out of Minneapolis. With a delicate voice, she provides catchy pop-country melodies intertwined with relatable lyrics. Tess’s music is honest and heartfelt, and something that this generation needs to hear. Instagram @tessofficialmusic, Youtube
Ashley DuBose, Episode 4, Song Title: Be You Be You, released in 2015 to a sold out crowd at the Bedlam in St. Paul, MN. The song is a feel-good, self-celebratory song that resonates with anyone feeling less than flawless but more than worthy of self-love and self-expression. Ashley is a mother to a lovely and brilliant soon-to-be 10 year old daughter. She has performed around the country and most interestingly, on NBC’s The Voice where she advanced to the Top 32 on season 5. Check out her website for my information Instagram @ashleydubose
Maria and the Coins, Episode 5, Sweetest Mistake Maria and the Coins bundle danceable, big-picture pop ambition into earnest, indie sensibility. The five-some distinguished themselves in the Minneapolis alt-rock scene by fusing singer-songwriter driven pop hooks with the vulnerability and honesty of an indie band. They are working on their first full length studio album and the album’s first single “Movin’ On” was just released on September 6th. Visit their website for more Visit their website to learn more! Join their email list and you can download “Movin’ On” for free.
Joe Flip, Episode 6, Mess Around Tony Cuchetti and Joe Flip recently competed at the International Blues Competition in Memphis, advancing to the semi-finals. Performing over 200+ shows per year, they are becoming a very popular act around the mid-west. Joe also creates his guitars from antique gas cans (Hayburner Guitars). He uses them during his performances and recorded with them on the entire CD. Their album “Tin Can Tunes” was recently nominated for album of the year by Blues Blast Magazine! Instagram@joeflipmusic
Jiselle McCollam’s Jazz Cult, Episode 7, A Sleepin’ Bee Jiselle McCollam’s Jazz Cult performs jazz standards peppered with contemporary and original tunes. They want to have a good time, they want you to have a good time, and they want to break your heart just a little. They call the Twin Cities home – you can catch them at their monthly residency every first Friday at the Black Dog Café in Lowertown St. Paul. They have frequented Jazz Central Studios, local indoor and outdoor stages, and have thoroughly enjoyed playing weddings. Check them out on Facebook or at their website, jisellemccollam.com.
The Only, Episode 8, Eye Know The Only, is an independent rock band from Minneapolis Minnesota. Their sound is a concoction of crispy drums, spooky guitars, and beautiful baby smooth vocal melodies. The Twin Cities quartet- Riki Olson (vocals/Bass), Max Greene (Drums), Nick Tuel (Guitar), and Forrest T. Kunkel (Guitar) -immediately take the listener on a mind-tickling journey. Their mission is to write inspiring music that they would want to listen to. The Only released their first full-length record, “Chawsk” on July 18, 2019. Since the release of “Chawsk”, they have gotten radio airplay and have played some of the midwest’s hottest music venues. Buckle up and enjoy the sounds of this Minnesota powerhouse band. Instagram and Facebook @officialtheonly
Miki Speers, Episode 9, See Me. The song is titled See Me because it was written for Miki’s mother in law after the loss of her son, Brenden, to suicide. Her MIL always says that she “sees him” in the little things, like dragon files or eagles, and that is where the song came from. Visit our journal to read Miki’s guest blog post on how to help those dealing with grief this holiday season and throughout the year. It is a must read! Instagram @mikispeer_songwriter
Jac Starling, Episode 10, Moonstone On this special holiday episode we feature the music of Jac Starling with his song “Moonstone”. Jac Starling is a 19 year old up and coming musician from Moorhead, MN. He makes what he calls “alternative emo rap with a trap feel singer/songwriter” music. Jac has been making music since he was 10 years, starting out as a producer and slowly teaching himself the rest of the music making process. He produces, mixes, masters, engineers, and records all of his own music in his bedroom studio. His goal is to make catchy yet deep and relatable music that comes from the hear. Check him out! @jac.starling
Katy Vernon, Episode 11, Suit Of Hearts Katy Vernon is a London born singer/songwriter and ukulele songbird. She combines British folk with Americana twang. Katy has crafted a new album with her band of professional musicians (all here in the Twin Cities) and is generating critical raves, plus album and ticket sales. Her album is on the short list for best local album of 2019. Currently, Katy is mid-way through a 6 week UK tour but will be lining up US dates quickly upon her return, including headlining the Lowertown Sounds Festival August 1st. You can find out more on her website.
Swanny Rose, Episode 12, A Parent’s Prayer Swanny Rose encapsulates the complete songwriting and entertainment package with her ability to flow seamlessly between unique original music, fan-favorite cover songs and even distinctive improvisation when the moment strikes her. Her songwriting style is one she likes to call “Americana Soul and Rock-N-Roll,” though her stylistic inspirations and talents really possess no boundaries She loves to weave bits of her favorite styles (ex: jazz, hip hop, or pop) into the Americana foundation to keep listeners guessing what’s going to come next. For more information visit her website.
Scott Jasmin, Episode 13, Small-town Life Scott Jasmin is a singer/songwriter from Austin, MN. Small-town Songs is a collection of original Americana about ordinary life in a small Midwestern town. @yourfriendjaz @SmallTownSongs
Maygen Lacey, Episode 14, If I Were Standing Maygen Lacey is a Twin Cities based singer and songwriter with millions of international streams of her unique acoustic cover songs. She also writes and performs original songs that cut to the deepest part of you. With a singular voice and lyrics threaded with hope, she blends a variety of influences from pop, to folk and country, appealing to broad audiences from cozy cafes to large festival stages. For more information visit her website. @maygenlacey
Bo Weber, Episode 15, Is It Wrong Minneapolis singer-songwriter, Bo Weber released his track “Is It Wrong”, a break-up song, with lyrics that pull at the heartstrings of those who can relate to the difficulty of letting go of something you love. Coming off a two-year hiatus, Bo’s last project was an album written in memory of his mother Wendy who passed away from Ovarian Cancer. Proceeds from the album went directly to Minnesotan’s who were still battling the disease. Check Bo’s music publication out at Music in Minnesota or visit his Facebook page.
Falcon Arrow, Episode 16, Gold City Falcon arrow is a two-piece instrumental band that crafts a dense, driving and dramatic sound with a bass guitar and drums. They achieve their sound utilizing octave effects and loops with strong, precise and often intricate rhythms. This experienced duo has performed over 200 times since 2008 with multiple tours and produced four full-length albums and four EPs. They’re often compared to bands like Battles and Don Caballero. Truly a sight and sound to behold! For more information visit their website.
Tori Evans, Episode 18, Let Go Tori Evans is an exceptional 17 yr old Minneapolis based singer/songwriter. Tori has been writing music as long as she can remember and made her public stage debut at 15 yrs old. Singing of Love, heartache, female empowerment and angry breakups, Tori is a “MUST SEE” rising star in the Minnesota music scene. Inspired by Lady Gaga, Adele and Amy Winehouse, Tori has a powerful jaw dropping voice that will leave you breathless. Releasing her first single in May 2019 (“Let Go”) Tori is currently working on her first full album (expected out in May of 2020)Let Go – written at 14yrs old, (recorded and released at 16) Let Go is about mending relationships and being self aware that as you may be hurt or angry by actions of friends or family, your own actions may be hurting them. “We’re all somebodies ghost” . For more information please visit her Facebook.
Brother Jon Band, Episode 19, Bobby’s Blues Brother Jon Band is based out of the Twin Cities. The band is rooted in Classic Rock and blues and the band live will take you on a trip thru time with great musicianship and a jam style all their own. Find them on Facebook or at their Website.
Bluehouse, Episode 20, New York Bluehound is a 7 piece Indie-Soul band from Minneapolis. Born in the halls of Augsburg College in the beating heart of Minneapolis, this band features a horn section, funky bass, shredding guitar, skillful drumming, and soulful vocals. Combining influences from hip-hop to alternative rock, from jazz to R&B, and from indie to funk, this band is a musical experience that must be heard to be believed. You can find out more about them on Facebook or listen here.
Steve BC, Episode 21, Special Delivery Steve has worked in various collaborations, including benefits for the community, but wanted to share one of his favorite tracks. It’s an updated homage to dance music influenced by the likes of Daft Punk and Skrilex. For more information visit his Facebook.
Kelley Larson, Episode 22, I wanna Dance Minnesota native, Kelley Larson, became a musician the moment she picked up a pen and paper and started writing lyrics at age 12. Since then she’s never turned back from her passion for music and singing. Larson pulls her whimsical sounds from the things that inspire her most – her three beautiful children, husband and family.
Rachel Kurtz, Episode 22, I Like it Minneapolis-based singer/songwriter Rachel Kurtz is poised for a breakthrough with her 2018 album, Love, Rachel Kurtz. A remarkable vocalist and magnetic stage presence, Kurtz has released a new 13-song collection of original soul, Americana, and blues tracks backed by some of Minneapolis’ finest session musicians.
The Abiders, Episode 23, Ever Lovin Shame The Abiders (Twin Cities, MN) put on an unforgettable show of Americana music with something for everyone – originals and classic blues, country, some folksy stuff too. These musicians have a groove – some special kind of chemistry – that sets their sound apart from the rest and connects with audiences. Whether bangin’ out their originals, gritty ol’ blues or back-hill country, The Abiders deliver their own kind of music full of heart and soul. For more information visit their website.
Ghost Wagon, Episode 24, Lost Twin Cities’ band Ghost Wagon is a collaborative of similarly-minded musicians, led by singer/songwriter Chuck Nelson, creating earnest and often darkly emotional tales presented via accessible melodies and a come-join-us-on-the-front-porch vibe. Ghost Wagon’s sounds flow from Americana to rock to country to pop to folk. The songs include multilayered instruments and guest players to create rich expressions as well as experiences. Check out their website or Facebook page. Music is available on Spotify.
Kashimana, Episode 25, Sun Baby Kashimana is a musician, singer, songwriter, composer, producer, lyricist, guitarist and performing artist with a rich soulful blues voice that soars through their original compositions. The name Kashimana means ‘that’s her heart’ and you can hear the heart beating in the compelling sound of Kashimana’s music. Kashimana often draws inspiration from her experiences growing up in Nigeria, Kenya, traveling through Africa, Europe and finally settling in the United States. Kashimana’s distinctive voice and stage presence pulls you in and leaves you in a warm and fuzzy thrall that’s hard to shake. Click here to purchase the whole album. If you would like to support Kashimana directly her Venmo is @kashimana or Cashapp: $Kashimana or PayPal.me/kashimana.
Trash Catties, Episode 26, Baseball on TV Trash Catties is a local garbage pop duo from St Paul that features Manny Catties on electric violin and vocals, Jennifer Catties on electric bass, and a laptop providing the beats. Playing songs about their life together, Manny’s pop melodies on the violin go through several effects pedals as they intertwine with Jennifer’s driving basslines over a pre-programmed dance tempo. Find them on Facebook, Instagram, and Bandcamp.
Alex Maiers, Episode 27, Never Looking Back Alex Maiers is a full-time composer, performer, & producer, based out of the Twin Cities. He is currently a full-time member of 3 groups: Maiden Dixie (country/rock; guitar/vocals), Sumo Seven (funk; bass/vocals), & Girls Night Out (country; guitar). Beyond this, he has served as a multi-instrumentalist & vocalist in many different musical environments, from musical theater pit orchestras to Queen tribute bands, Belly dance troupe featuring Arabic & World Music to Prog rock bands. He has also scored for film, TV, & multimedia ads, & gives music lessons (in-studio, remotely, or via Skype) across multiple instruments/voice, composition, & music theory. For more information, check out his website: www.alexmaiers.com
Jenny Klukken, Episode 28, Chapters Jenny Klukken is a dynamic and creative musician. Her instrument, the marimba, is brought to life as she fuses its rich sound with folk, jazz, and world music genres. As a composer, arranger, and marimbist, Jenny strives to push the boundaries of her instrument. Her composing style and instrumentation is fresh and unique, and her music is approachable and enjoyable for all types of listeners. Jenny’s debut marimba album is set to record later in 2020, funded through a Kickstarter Campaign in 2019.
The song “Chapters”, is composed and written by Jenny. Collaborating instrumentalists are Marco Ortiz, Orlando Ramirez, and Adrian Zuniga. For more information visit her website.
Cassieopia, Episode 29, Devil’s Playground Cassieopia is an emerging multidisciplinary DJ/ producer, rapper, song-writer, organizer and constellation from the northern skies of St. Paul, Minnesota. In 2019 Cassieopia released her debut project “Temple of Enigma” in which she wrote, and uniquely produced every track. She combines her biblically rooted melodic sounds over Hip-hop drums and bass, to convey a sound like none other. In 2020 she will be releasing a much anticipated mixtape featuring over a dozen talented rappers and artists from Minnesota, performing over 14 of her best beats her career has seen thus far. For more information visit her website.
Kathy Banta, Episode 30, The Little Things Kathy Banta is a singer/songwriter but, her day job is wardrobe consulting/stylisting for A La Mode Wardrobing www.alamodewc.com Kathy is a wife and mom and has been singing all her life. She is most known for singing the National Anthem for professional sporting events. She has been singing the National Anthem for the U of M sports for over 22 years. Kathy writes her songs from everyday life. This song is perfect for right now because, so many families are cooped up in the house together and life is getting very real and personal. The little things can drive us crazy but, they also can make us laugh. My personal music webpage is www.kathybanta.com
Cassondra Lea, Episode 31, I Fall Cassondra has made a living in music since she graduated from McNally Smith College of Music in 2010. Her fearlessness and appetite to succeed has set her apart from many. She is not only a highly trained vocalist in various genres and styles, she also plays piano and trombone. She traveled as the lead singer in the HAL Cats band on Holland American Cruise Lines, resort sang while living in Riveria Maya, Mexico, and has headlined major Prince events around the Twin Cities; guest artists include, Judith Hill, André Cymone, Jelly Bean Johnson, Apollonia, Jill Jones, Shelby J., and Liv Warfield. Mama Cass currently writes and performs original music around the Twin Cities. She features songs from her last album, Faces I Meet which was released in 2013. Starting in 2020 she will be releasing a new single a month for a year, as well as new music videos. Her latest releases are “That Summer”, “I Fall and “Young and Alive“.Cass works on a number of different projects including owning her own dueling piano business, Duelly Noted. Other corporate bands featuring her talents are The Blue Water Kings Band and G Sharp and the Bizness. When she’s not singing she enjoys spending time with her handsome man, her beautiful daughter, and her fur babies. Cassondra also loves to flip furniture and redecorate old antiques. She is the queen of puzzling, loves a good workout, and actively pursues new goals to conquer. For more information visit her website.
Solana, Episode 32, “With You” SOLANA is a Latino American singer/songwriter from South Minneapolis. His sound is a mix of latin guitar and modern R&B. His primary focus is writing love songs that range from having a crush to being in love and everything in between. Check out Solana on Facebook and Instagram to learn more.
Static Panic, Episode 33, “Spice Rack” “Static Panic” is a conduit for a funky few, truly passionate about the human experience. The objective: to reach out and express through our collective and unique backgrounds, sharing our journey in the form of music. Music is a truly universal language that everyone can recognize. Our paths are uncommon and tread by none but us; trailblazers in a sea of self-doubt and uncertainty of our own truths. Isn’t it nice to have something in common? For more information visit their Facebook or website.
Richard Mittelstet, Episode 34, “On My Way Back Home” Richard Mittelstet is a versatile Singer/ Songwriter and musician born and raised in Borger, a small town in the head of Texas. Captivating audiences with his unique styley voice, soothing acoustic guitar, and soulful harmonica, Richard learned from the best. Some musical influences include Many Great Friends, Old Crow Medicine Show, Bob Marley, Sublime, Pearl Jam, Ben Harper, White Stripes, Cake, Born Ruffians, Phoenix, Beatles, James Taylor, Hank Williams and the list go’s on and on. Richard thrives in the life that flows through the music! He performs a variety of genres, from Blues to Bluegrass, Reggae to Folk, Motown to Indie, Rock to Oldies, and whatever is meant for the times. While Richard plays a wide assortment of classics, he is well known for his lyrical originals. Richard Mittelstet aims for the soul of his audience with abounding love that flows through his music. Visit his website to learn more.
Mayda, Episode 35, “Justice” Mayda is a young yet seasoned Korean Adoptee multi-musician/artist/producer from the land of 10,000 Lakes. “Her R&B-infused pop is undeniably fresh, as she swings between pared-down acoustic struts, full-band funkadelic blasts, and electronic drumbeats and synth flourishes that would make the Purple One proud. The result is a slick, expansive, and evolving pop sound. The prolific young soul singer is just beginning her journey, but it’s hard not to anticipate big things from the petite yet larger-than-life pop songstress.” -Andrea Swensson, The Current. For more information visit her website.
Mrs. Pinky and The Great Fox, Episode 36, “Alone” Mrs. Pinky and The Great Fox is a Minneapolis based band. Tapping into elements of Black Rock, Jazz Fusion, R&B with Bluesy undertones, Mrs Pinky and The Great Fox continues to push the boundaries of sound. Check out the band on Facebook and Instagram
High On Stress, Episode 37, “Hold Me In” High on Stress returned from a four year hiatus in 2018 by re-releasing their 2005 debut album “Moonlight Girls” on vinyl and hitting the road. In 2020, they released their new first studio album since 2014 entitled “Hold Me In”. “Hold Me In” is a twelve song Power Pop/ Americana/ Rock n Roll juggernaut that was inspired by Slim Dunlap, Tommy Keene and the great Twin/Tone Records. To learn more about High On Stress visit their website HERE.
Ivory Doublette, Episode 38, Down By the Riverside. Ivory Doublette works as a vocalist in the MacPhail Music for Life™ and Sing, Play, Learn! with MacPhail® programs. Additionally, Ivory has been a teaching artist with Children’s Theatre Company, Ordway Center for the Arts, Stages Theater and Billingsley School of Music and Art. Ivory primarily teaches music and theater for early learners. Ivory has been a professional performing artist for the past 14 years. Locally, Ivory has performed with Penumbra Theatre, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, Theatre Latté Da and many others. She and her family perform as a Gospel quartet called, SeVy (Say-v). Ivory has also performed with other musical groups such as the Soul Tight Committee Band and kid favorite, The Bazillions. She holds a BA in Theater Arts from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. To learn more visit her website.
Latin Billies, Episode 39, “Stepping Stone” They blend elements of R&B, country, latin, folk, rock-a-billy and old school soul. They’re a sultry, toe tapping cool drink of bilingual water! They appeal to the mind, body and soul! To learn more follow along on their Facebook or YouTube.
The Catalina, Episode 40, “Love Somebody” A modern pop twist on 80’s rock, Minneapolis finds a brand-new sound in The Catalina. Taking influence from acts like The Police, The Night Game, and The Band CAMINO, their debut EP “Love Somebody” was just released Fall of 2020. Finding brotherhood in the Twin Cities, lead vocalist and guitarist James Howard, Adam Hepner (drums), and Justin Jacobs (guitar) channel their experiences into songs that capture young emotion in the most authentic ways possible. With stories of love, loss, and longing, The Catalina captures the hearts of listeners and looks to leave their mark in the pop/rock music industry.
Tim Cheesebrow, Episode 41, “Almost Through The Dark” Tim started writing songs in the 90’s as a way to make sense of the world. 20 years later and he’s still at is, playing over 120 shows per year. He now has seven full-length solo albums under his belt. His music layers an eclectic mix of styles to create a sound with modern grooves, catchy melodies, and a sense of being grounded in deep roots. He’s known for his percussive guitar work, capo-wizardy, and an expressive voice big enough to fill any room. Learn more about Tim at his website.
Casey Fearing, Episode 42, “Shine a Light” Casey is a Northfield singer-songwriter influenced by the likes of Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, and John Prine. He has been writing, recording, and performing music since 1998, with a background ranging from 4-piece rock bands to acoustic folk duos. Casey’s raw and emotional approach to singing and songwriting is sure to grab your attention and pull you into the depths of the song, as his current acoustic show is sure to highlight. Listen to more songs.
Clare Lockman, Episode 43, “Who’s Pulling My Strings” Clare Lockman leads with a fiery, folk rock vibe that expands into rockabilly roots music and stays true to her conversations about mental health. As a singer and writer, her brooding sound resonates from honest vocals and careful lyricism. Clare’s aesthetic comes from a diverse background in creating art across multiple mediums, spanning from fashion and vintage decor to crafts and greenery. Clare’s evocative and poignant songs exemplify what it means to be a mother speaking about life and all of the anxiety and joy that comes along with it. “Who’s Pulling My Strings?” dares listeners to experience the sadness that comes from powerlessness, and the freedom that can come from finding rock bottom. Learn more about Clare HERE.
Samantha Grimes, Episode 44, “She” Sam first picked up a guitar at the age of five. She wanted to play Hotel California by the Eagles and be a rockstar. The guitar she started with was much too large – so she laid it on her lap. 28 years later, she still plays left-handed and upside down. She released a self-titled EP in 2006 and performed extensively in the Twin Cities. Since then, she’s become a wife and a mother. There are many other passions in her life, but one passion that has never diminished is her music. Now, she performs solo acoustic or with her band. All original music – pop/roots style. Currently working on a full length album to follow up “Trilogy”.“Trilogy” was released September 29th on all streaming and purchase platforms. You can have a listen to “She”, “Hello Hello” and “Going Sane” if you check out YouTube, iTunes, iHeart Radio, Amazon, etc. Visit her page to learn more!
Leslie Vincent, Episode 45, “Rhode Island is Famous For You” Leslie Vincent is a Twin Cities based singer and musician. Described as somewhere between Norah Jones and Amy Winehouse, Leslie strives to bring authenticity and joy to her music making. More information at www.lesliedellavincent.com
Amanda Grace, Episode 46, “Mustang on the Run” Amanda does not claim a particular genre of music, and in doing so enjoys variety in her music and audiences. She has produced music drifting between folk and rock. With roots as a pianist her writing is thematically varied with an emphasis on melody and ballads wrapped in warm vocals. She’s released 6 albums and travels regionally. Amanda performs as a solo artist, a member of a women’s contemporary folk band called Wildflower, and with her Amanda Grace band. This song was written with the help of her daughter. It features Peter Boysen on guitar and Amanda’s son Will on drums.
Space Hug. Episode 47, “Infamous Entertainers” Space Hug is a creative concoction, mixing the quirky talents of songwriter, Erik Newman, and vocalist, Adrianne Prettyman. Their sound is a sonic blend of driving guitar riffs, sensual vocals and innovative keyboard countermelodies. Lyrics cover a broad range of topics from the personal to social commentary. Born in the COVID era – where people must hug at a distance – Space Hug has begun their journey to bring beauty and meaning to the strange times we live in. Just as Adrianne and Erik’s friendship grew into love, they hope your interest in their music will also. Catch a ride and enjoy a safe embrace. Learn more about Space Hug via their website or social media @spacehugmusic.
Amanda Grace, Episode 46, “Mustang on the Run”
Shahidi, Episode 48, “Chicago Love” Shahidi is a Black American originally from Minneapolis. A singer, songwriter, and acoustic guitarist, Shahidi’s music is informed by his culture and experiences as an African American man in Minnesota and by the songs and traditions he grew up within his midwestern Sunni Muslim, Sufi household. Shahidi draws upon the therapeutic and spiritual qualities of music and he vocalizes raw emotions and deep reflections surrounding the lived experiences of Black men, Black youth, and Black fathers. Centering pain, love, grief, anger, and hard truths that are at times spoken about but not always heard, Shahidi’s songwriting will elevate the vulnerabilities of Black men in the Twin Cities. This blend of soulful acoustic guitar melodies and collaborative, cross-diasporic storytelling will also musically map a journey toward unity across Black communities in the Twin Cities. To learn about Shahidi visit his website.
Lanue, Episode 49, “September” Feeling detached from her previously released work as years lapsed, Duluth, Minnesota’s Sarah Krueger set out to Hive, a small studio nestled near the river in her hometown of Eau Claire, WI. In the course of two separate sessions, (the first on the cusp of a long winter, and the second on the fringe of summer’s swell), Krueger assembled a cast of collaborators to help flesh out a collection of songs that would later become the catalyst for Lanue. Culled from the title of a poem that found its way to Krueger from a thrift store shelf, Lanue comes to us as a project that stands firmly in front of a fresh creative backdrop and boasts a more developed taste and sincerity than Krueger’s previous releases — both a welcome departure and anticipated return. In Lanue’s self titled LP, Krueger continues to amplify her knack for straightforward and earnest songwriting while maintaining a vocal delivery that sits like honey over layers of warm synths, guitars, and percussion. Ranging from confessional to nostalgic, each track is brightened by a lush lift while continuing to rest inside the framework of the folk tradition. Krueger enlisted collaborators Steve Garrington (Low) and Sean Carey (S. Carey, Bon Iver) to assist with production and instrumentation while relying on JT Bates (Pieta Brown, Taylor Swift) on drums, and Ben Lester (Field Report, Sufjan Stevens) on pedal steel guitar. String arrangements by Ryan Young (Trampled by Turtles) and guitar work by Erik Koskinen round out the record so that it arrives at a place of stark honesty and inviting warmth. Learn more information about Lanue HERE.
Elska, Episode 50, “You First”
THE MEANING: “Elska”: Old Norse: /ˈɛlska/ – It means to hold something dear, or to fiercely love something or someone. It also has an oddly political meaning as a call to action, in the way that love, like justice, is something worth working for. This intersection between the personal and political is what prompted a young singer from northern Minnesota to adopt the name ELSKA. THE SOUND: is piano. It’s pop. But it’s also an enthusiastic marriage of organic and synthetic sounds. Sometimes aggressive, sometimes atmospheric, ELSKA embraces the dramatic sides of both Indie and Alternative music. ELSKA happily invites fans of Mitski, Feist, and Sara Bareilles to sample her wares. Visit Elska’s website to learn more!
Swallows, Episode 51, “Ultraviolet” The music for Seven Stars was written shortly after the release of Swallows’ second studio album Witching & Divining in 2012. After several delays and a few line-up changes, Swallows have finally completed the album they began recording back in 2014. In the intervening years, members of Swallows have worked on other projects, including 2017’s Deep in the Waves, released under the moniker J. Briozo, and 2019’s To Combat Loneliness: Compositions based on the works of David Foster Wallace, which earned Swallows’ Aaron Kerr, Tyson Allison and Justin DeLeon a 2020 Independent Music Award nomination for “Best Concept Album.” Stylistically, In the Shadow of the Seven Stars combines the dark atmospherics of the Americana-influenced Witching & Divining with the rock & roll swagger of the band’s 2008 debut, Songs for Strippers (and other professions), which landed Swallows the #57 position on Consequence of Sound’s “Top 100 Albums of 2008” year-end list. Learn more about Swallows HERE.
Nicoshia Wynn, Episode 52,”Relentless Worship” Nicoshia Wynn is a singer, songwriter, and speaker who loves to encourage others through leading worship and her unwavering faith in Christ. Nicoshia was inspired to write her new single after her youngest son was born a day shy of 25 weeks, weighing 1 pound and 14 ounces (he was about the size of a half sheet of paper). Her son was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital for more than 100 days, during which he was on a ventilator for 8 weeks (touch and go), had heart surgery, approximately 3 -5 infections (pneumonia and e-coli) and was diagnosed with a lung disease called Bronchopulmnary Dysplasia (BPD).This experience activated her faith and trust in God. After four long months of Nicoshia’s son being in the NICU, he was discharged from the hospital two weeks prior to Christmas and was called the “miracle baby” by doctors because he beat all of the statistics and odds of being severely premature.As Nicoshia reflected on this experience and others, she knew that her and her husband’s strength during difficult times was only because of God’s holiness, awesomeness, and their faith! She also knew that no matter what the circumstance was and as painful as it was to see her son in this circumstance, she knew that God still deserved his praise and their worship.Her new single reflects the essence of God’s goodness and His faithfulness. She hopes that this song will encourage and inspire others to never let their circumstance outrun their worship and love for God. VIsit her website to learn more.
Amanda B. Perry, Episode 53, “Vanishing” This is Amanda B. Perry’s debut album “By Special Request”. Amanda is a singer-songwriter from the Twin Cities. Writing since childhood, Amanda is now sharing an album of love songs. Telling stories that connect us all through many of life’s common, yet incredible experiences. Learn more about Amanda HERE.
Bev, Episode 54, “January” From Minneapolis, MN, indie pop/rock artist Bev has been making albums and playing shows since 2010. Previously performing under the name, Niki Becker, she changed her name to Niki Beverly (in honor of her deceased mother) after her divorce in 2018 and began performing under the name Bev. She released her previous album Static Elastic in September 2018. The song January is featured on the new album Crusher.