Acoustic Alternatives: Recent Episodes
John Bommarito
Another talent from the vast Michigan music scene made their way to Grove Studios for Acoustic Alternatives. Ani Mari is originally from Marquette (and, as we learn, may return to live there some day), but migrated to Ann Arbor to go to the University of Michigan.
She got attention at the age of 12 in a duo she was in singing by performing a song about a festival at the actual festival and the ball started rolling. Now a decade+ later, school is behind her and capturing the hearts of music lovers everywhere is ahead of her. A new album coming this summer, produced by Chris DuPont, and a tour lined up to promote it, on Acoustic Alternatives you get a taste of what Ani is all about. A bright future awaits this one.
Songs written by Ani Mari:
Genevieve
Tokyo
Burnout
Josephine
More about Ani: https://animarimusic.com/
Catch up on 100+ episodes of Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Eternal gratitude to Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
The gifted artist Julianne Ankley joins me for a second visit on the podcast, this time with the generous help of Ryan Anderson from Sound Space Detroit for which I am very grateful for.
Julianne is really hitting a creative stride in her career. After being in a band (Redhill) that garnered national attention and putting out some solo material since 2009, things really seem to be going in the right direction. Her latest single, Polar Train, reached far and wide and the new single performed in this session sounds poised for further success.
It was a pleasure to have the chance to chat with her again. Enjoy!
Songs written by Julianne Ankley
What Makes You Dance
Polar Train
Cheap Thrills
More about Julianne: https://www.julianneankley.com/
and her beautiful art: https://www.julianneankleyart.com/
Find over a hundred other episodes of Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
None of this would have ever happened without Grove Studios getting the ball rolling: https://grovestudios.space/
The main reason for the podcast is music discovery for you, my listener. When I hear someone I think needs a larger audience I make it a point to get them on the podcast and to your ears.
It took about 3 years from the first time I heard his voice for me to get it to your ears, but I think you'll find it worth the wait.
Songs written by John Richard Paul:
Untitled New Song
In Return
Existentialist Blues
There and Back Again
More about John at :https://johnrichardpaul.com/home
More about Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
More about Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
Marshall, MI's Sammie Hershock is off to good start in her young recording career. Already an award winner and already lucky enough to work with some of Michigan's finest fellow musicians, Sammie is putting out her second full length record in the fall of 2026.
Acoustic Alternatives was lucky enough to get a preview of 4 of the songs to be included on this next record. We also might have learned a secret about the CD release party.
Songs written by Sammie Hershock:
Graveyard Trees
Sensitivity
Gold Star
Dragon Song
Find Sammie on the web: https://www.sammiehershock.com/
Find 100+ other visits on Acoustic Alternatives here: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Grove Studios is the only way it happens. Check them out: https://grovestudios.space/
Come on a journey with me to another era and another place. Cabaret Boreale aren't from these times, though the band's members, Katie Lynne, Don Reinholm, Phil LaDouceur and Andrew Brown certainly are.
Katie, Don and Phil formed this ensemble around the time Andrew Brown was earning acknowledgment for his project Djangophonique (another act that leans heavily into another era). If you're just listening to Cabaret Boreale, you'll have to rely on theater of the mind. If you're watching it, you are treated to a show (you'll have to get your own dinner to go with it).
So. Much. Fun.
Songs performed:
Alabama Song (Whiskey Bar) (written by Weill/Brecht)
Mack The Knife (written by Weill/Brecht)
Rouse The Men (Friedrich Hollaender)
I'm Not Your Dog (written by Cabaret Boreale)
Find out more about Cabaret Boreale: https://cabaretboreale.com/
Follow all things Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Eternal gratitude to Grove Studios. Book your studio space: https://grovestudios.space/
Dave Boutette and Kristi Lynn Davis, now known as Dave & Kristi, make a return visit to the podcast WITHOUT MASKS more than 5 1/2 years since their last visit. Songs from their newest album The Chickadees performed this time.
Songs written by Dave Boutette with help from Kristi Davis
All Are Welcome Here
Soapbox Soliloquy
Outlaw Polka
You Chase Too Many Things.
More about Dave & Kristi: https://www.daveboutette.net/daveandkristi/
More about Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Book Grove Studios for your musical needs: https://grovestudios.space/
He released his first album back in 1987, was signed to Windham Hill family of labels for a handful of releases, but has put out the bulk of his recordings on the great label Red House Records.
People who have been guests on his releases include Shawn Colvin, Nanci Griffith, Ani DiFranco, Lucy Kaplansky, Eliza Gilkyson, Jonatha Brooke, Antje Duvekot, Claudia Schmidt, David Wilcox, Cliff Eberhardt, Michael Johnson, Alice Peacock, Patty Larkin, Susan Werner, and The Turtle Island String Quartet...just to name a few.
His voice is a beautiful, soothing instrument and his songs range from heart wrenching to funny to things you need to hear. My guest this episode is the wonderful John Gorka.
Songs written by John Gorka
Hold On
I'm From New Jersey
Good Noise
Particle and Wave
More about John Gorka: https://www.johngorka.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Book Grove Studios for your musical needs: https://grovestudios.space/
Northville, MI's Ryan Racine has 30 years of playing in bands behind him and all the skills to get the attention of fans of Alt Country/Americana ahead of him. When I hear his new record, Valhalla Afternoon, and think about how I felt about 2018's Outsider's Heart when it came out, I realize I just don't know what someone has to do to get the attention of the masses. You can be as good as Jason Isbell and yet not get the same recognition, even in your own backyard. I hope that changes with this record.
It was a pleasure to be among the first to hear his new album, due out May 1st and chat with him again after an 8 year gap. This is your first chance to hear some of these songs if you haven't been to a Ryan Racine show.
All songs written by Ryan Racine:
Don't Bury Me
If You Want
Emily
Boston Corbet
More about Ryan Racine: https://www.ryanracine.com/bio
Follow me and hear other episodes of Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
NONE of this happens without Grove Studios. Book them for your needs: https://grovestudios.space/
Milan, MI's Lauren Blackford came to my attention as an opening act for my friend and recent guest on the podcast, Rochelle Clark at her show at The Ark. I brought Lauren on stage that night, embarrassingly briefly saying her name wrong in the process. After hearing just a few songs from the stage, I knew that I was witnessing something special. The "IT" factor was there and I immediately invited her to be a guest on the podcast backstage after her performance.
Songs written by Lauren Blackford:
A Good Thing
Wasted Potential
Dead Body Baby
One Too Many Times
Find Lauren on the web at: https://laurenblackford.us/
Find more Acoustic Alternatives episodes at: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Please support Grove Studios (which Lauren already likes): https://grovestudios.space/
I first encountered Kate Peterson as half of the duo Nervous But Excited. With the band's unknown status (hiatus? vacation? definitely not broken up) I took the opportunity to visit with Kate about her upcoming Michigan performances and chat about her life and get her to sing a couple of songs. I don't think she was too nervous, but perhaps a little excited.
For reference, Nervous But Excited recordings included guest appearances from Theo Katzman, Frontier Ruckus, Chris Bathgate, Mike Lynch, Erin Zindle, Drew Howard, and many others.
All songs written by Kate Peterson except where noted
Roots
Said and Done
Ain't No Sunshine (Bill Withers)
Blank Pages.
Find out more about Kate: https://www.katepeterson.com/
Find 100 other Acoustic Alternatives episodes: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Book Grove Studios for your needs: https://grovestudios.space/
Welcome to podcast episode #100.
I've never met anyone who has met Joshua Davis that has had anything bad so say about him.
He's had a pretty special career since releasing his first record with the band Steppin' In It 25 years ago. A beloved member of the Michigan music community and a one time Top 3 contestant on The Voice, Josh has shifted to playing out less and making his living closer to his home in the Traverse City area.
I've tried to catch him on a few of his recent visits to Southeast Michigan, but this time it fell together quickly. We realized timing worked and 16 hours after I booked the studio, with little preparation time, we met at Grove Studios. Problem is, neither one of us had enough time to wake up for this 8:00 a.m. session and I forgot to his record on the cameras. I did spend a fair amount of time setting them up at a good angle and this one was going to turn out great. I guess we'll never know.
Songs written by Joshua Davis:
Paper Boats
Congratulations and Condolences
99 Names
Joshua Davis' website: https://joshuadavismusic.com/
Acoustic Alternatives' website: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Grove Studios website: https://grovestudios.space/
Ypsilanti, MI residents Rochelle Clark and Jason Dennie didn't have to go far to get to Grove Studios (7 minutes apparently), but their music will take you on journey somewhere south of there. Both have been making music for quite a long time.
They originally met when Rochelle was taking guitar lessons from Jason at Herb David Guitar Studio. Eventually they found each other to be not just musical partners, but partners in life. Rochelle's voice is one that I once said to her in a radio session "you could sing John Bommarito is a big jerk" and it would sound good. I have that audio. It does sound good and it doesn't even hurt when she sings it. Jason's guitar playing, which is what drew me to him in the first place, has him atop my list of best acoustic guitar players in the area (and he may be the best mandolin player in my music scene as well).
Enjoy this conversation with two people I am proud to call friends. If you want to hear the interviews that I've done with both in the past, subscribe to my Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/c/AcousticAlternativeswithJohnBommarito
Songs:
Blue (written by Rochelle P Clark)
If I Could Make You My Own (written by Dori Freeman)
Simply Perfect Day (written by Jason Dennie)
Honey Hangover (written by Jason Dennie)
More about all things Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Find Rochelle on the web: https://www.rochellepclark.com/
Find Jason on the web: https://www.jasondennie.com/
Book a session at Grove Studios for your musical needs: https://grovestudios.space/
This one was a long time in the making. I'd been checking in with Tony Lucca on the occasions he would come back to his home state of Michigan for a show to see if he was available to join me for a chat. Two previous in studio sessions in Ann Arbor in 2010 and 2016 established a mutual respect for one another.
When I first heard his music in 2010 on an album called Rendezvous with the Angels I had no idea what an interesting backstory he had. To paraphrase something I say in our conversation, how is that I can get access to someone with this much talent and history?
It's a long one and I actually left a few questions out when we were recording due to time restraints. Enjoy this conversation with Tony Lucca.
Songs written by Tony Lucca:
In My Life Today
True Story
Back in '87
Top and the Bottom
Find Tony on the web at: https://www.tonylucca.com/
See or listen to other Acoustic Alternatives sessions: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Book Grove Studios for your next musical needs: https://grovestudios.space/
Detroit/Hamtramck, Michigan's Jackamo has been drawing comparisons to some of the best indie folk groups around since they began their journey many years ago.
Sisters Alison and Tessa Weircioch handle the vocals and the talented Jimmy Showers does the guitar work. Together it is a rich, harmonious adventure in sound. Their first record is coming out soon and we talk about it, their lives and their upcoming shows on the latest Acoustic Alternatives.
Songs, written by Jackamo:
Her
Paper Cranes
Lucy
Find Jackamo on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrMuHGoWUoJ-il9SzRg4SOA
Find out more about Acoustic Alternatives:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Eternal thanks to my host, Grove Studios:
https://grovestudios.space/
Phoebe and Jacyln are talented sisters originally from Lake Orion, MI who've been making music together for over a decade. Their peers in the local music scene, including Jill Jack, have been helping to lift them up as they've continued to find their path and hone their craft over the years. Their third release, Temporary By Design, comes nine years after their debut covers record, Come What May, and shows the growth the duo have made since their debut. Put it on and feel what they've been through via the heartfelt lyrics.
Songs, written by Keynote Sisters, include:
Done and Damned
Phoenix Tears
Waitin' On You
It's All Talk
More about Keynote Sisters at: https://keynotesisters.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Grove Studios makes it all possible: https://grovestudios.space/
Brooklyn based – Brooklyn MI that is – singer songwriter, contributor to the feeding of hungry people who prioritize organic produce, multi-instrumentalist, and all around good guy, Billy King joins me at Grove Studios for a chat about his new record, Chill.
Learn a bit about the difference between the family farm he works on and the similarly named produce seller in the area, the Hollerfest Music Festival that takes place on the family farm, hear an as of yet unreleased song and more.
All songs written by Billy King
Makes Me Wonder
Truth Lies
Chill
Snow in NOLA.
More about Billy King: https://billykingdom.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Book your session at Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space
I've been working at one of the premiere jazz stations in the country since the summer of 2022. In the spring of 2024 I was given a twice a week two hour radio program called The Song Break to program. I brought my existing knowledge of The Great American Songbook and the classic vocalists who are best known for interpreting it to the table. The other side of the equation is the modern day songbook. This required some research into newer singers. Along the way I found one in my own state who was masterfully interpreting the classics AND writing new ones.
Olivia Van Goor is a gifted artist and vocalist and I love making new fans out of anyone willing to listen. It is my belief that she will be a breakout national jazz artist at some point, not just one who performs regionally. She has the "IT" factor.
Joined by her friend and talented bassist Reuben Stump, Olivia chats about her 4th release "Waiting For Santa." If you aren't in the mood for Holiday music, please at least listen to the conversation and skip the songs until you are ready, but among the 4 songs performed only one is a cover and it's not one you hear over and over and over.
Please enjoy this session with Olivia and Reuben and please check her out live sometime. You won't be disappointed.
Songs written by Olivia Van Goor except where noted:
Santa, Did You Get My Letter?
Holiday Traditions (OVG and Reuben Stump)
Hermey's Blues (OVG and Mike Harrison)
There's Always Tomorrow (Johnny Marks)
Do yourself a favor and check out Olivia on line at: https://www.oliviavangoor.com/
Want to learn more and support Acoustic Alternatives? https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
None of it, I mean NONE of it happens without the support of Grove Studios:https://grovestudios.space/
Can you dig it? I got to visit with Jen Sygit. A large reason I do this podcast is to shine the spotlight on artists I think deserve more attention than they are getting. All three of Jen's most recent releases were in my top 5 albums of the year they were released. She's had some wonderful opportunities in her 20+ years as a performing musician. We chat about those and mention that she's got her first headlining gig at The Ark in November.
All songs written by Jen Sygit:
Grandma Went to Heaven In A Cowgirl Cadillac
Smell The Flowers
Marshall Street
One In A Million
More about Jen Sygit: http://www.jensygit.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
More about Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
David's first album, The Nightshift Watchman, came out independently in 1987. In 1989 he made his major label debut on A&M Records with How Did You Find Me Here, which included modern folk classics that he still plays in his sets 35+ years later ("Eye of the Hurricane" & "Rusty Old American Dream").
Ask a handful of younger modern folk singers and no doubt some of them will cite David's playing and/or writing as an influence on what they are doing.
It was a pleasure to chat with David again as he has just put out his best album in many years, The Way I Tell The Story. Hear some of the story in this visit as well as two songs not on any record yet.
Bonus! The old Acoustic Alternatives WHFR show intro and the classic ann arbor's 107one show ID.
Songs written by David Wilcox:
"I'm From Nowhere"
"Miss Liberty"
"The Way I Tell The Story"
"The Beautiful"
More about David: https://www.davidwilcox.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
More about Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
Kora Feder is a well traveled singer songwriter with music in her blood now calling Detroit home. It was a chance meeting that brought me to her music and one song in particular that destroyed my heart in the way only songs can do. There are a few other interview with Kora out there and some of them really good and in-depth. I think I only scratched the surface. I was also distracted by issues I was having with the sound quality and a week's worth of headaches.
I encourage you to explore her professionally recorded catalog.
Songs written by Kora Feder:
Automatic Times
Elementary Queen
In A Young Person's Body
Ballad to Feel.
Support and follow Kora: https://korafeder.com/
Support and follow Acoustic Alternatives (clearly I need to buy some microphones and cables): https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Support the great home of the podcast, Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
Chicago area songwriter Joe Goodkin has, at the time of this posting, 14 records to his credit - some solo, some with his band Paper Arrows. Two of his projects are ambitious retellings of Homer's The Odyssey and The Illiad and he has toured these records in every state in the US and abroad as well.
Get to know Joe and hear an as of yet unreleased song in this performance and conversation with a modern bard.
Songs written by Joe Goodkin:
Somebody Loved (The Invocation)
What Kind of Love (Patroclus to Achilles)
Hands of Grief (Priam to Achilles)
Winedark Life
More information about Joe:
https://www.joegoodkin.com/
All things Acoustic Alternatives including how to support my efforts on Patreon:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
All the love goes to my host Grove Studios without whom none of this happens
https://grovestudios.space/
Myron Elkins is from the small town Otsego, MI(About 17 miles north west of Kalamazoo). His friends from school probably didn't see him as the guy who would one day play shows with Willie Nelson, John Fogerty, Marcus King and Kaleo, and have his second release produced by one of the most in demand producers in the Americana genre, Dave Cobb, but he did just that. With unique voice and a love of music from another time, Myron Elkins isn't like any other artist I've met who was born since the 2000's began. Hear his stories and a brand new, as of yet unreleased, song in our conversation from Grove Studios.
Songs written by Myron Elkins
"God Bless The Rain"
"Testimony"
"Red Ball"
"Winnin'"
Learn more about Myron (until he's able to get his own website back from Elektra records) at https://www.myronelkins.com/
Find other Acoustic Alternatives podcasts and playlists:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Endless thanks to my hosts, Grove Studios
https://grovestudios.space/
One of most prolific, gifted, kind hearted, and gentle people you'll ever meet - oh and she has an angelic voice, May Erlewine joined me at Grove Studios to talk about her career and newest album 'What It Takes.' I've been wanting to put her in the spotlight pretty much since I started doing the podcast back in 2020. I feel like there is more we could have done to show the uninitiated the wonderful world of May, but I hope this glimpse gives you the spark to explore more.
Songs written by May Erlewine:
My Speed
Down To This
Love and Desire
Nothing But Love
Find out more about May Erlewine:
https://www.mayerlewine.com/
Find out more about Acoustic Alternatives
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Grove Studios deserves and award. Find more about them here:
https://grovestudios.space/
15 years after her debut EP, Ann Arbor, MI area musician Abigail Stauffer has finally released her 4th full length record. Delayed by a pandemic and the distance her collaborator Dave Haughey (aka Dave the Cellist), the newest release doesn't fit neatly into a musical category, but rather is an extension of the genre bending folk on her previous releases. Abigail opens up in this conversation about her past and present for Acoustic Alternatives.
Songs written by Abigail Stauffer, except where noted:
Alone To Dream
Pulling Teeth (co-written with Dave Haughey)
Wanderer (co-written with Dave Haughey)
Blanket
More about Abigail: http://abigailstauffer.com/
Support Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Grove Studios is the best! https://grovestudios.space/
Boston area singer/songwriter/storyteller/delightful human Hayley Reardon joined me for a conversation in Grove Studios on April 23, 2025. She's been on my radar for over a decade, but this was our first chance to meet and talk.
Songs written by Hayley Reardon:
Enough Is Everything
Good News
Bone Dance
The Little Sadness
More info on Hayley: https://www.hayleyreardon.com/
More info on Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
More info on Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
Portland, OR based duo Fox & Bones joined me and gave me a peek into their world. They also played a couple new songs (including one, as of the time of publishing this, unreleased).
Meet Scott Gilmore and Sarah Vitort on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives.
Songs written by Scott Gilmore and Sarah Vitort
"Ain't Giving Up Tonight"
"Strange and Wonderous Place"
"Long Time Honey"
"The Borderline"
More about Fox & Bones: https://foxandbones.com/
More about all things Acoustic Alternatives, including how to support me on Patreon https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Eternal love and gratitude to Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
It's been a decade since I last visited with this gifted vocalist. He's certainly had some great experiences since we last spoke. His voice and songwriting have only gotten better. Let me introduce you to, if you don't already know him, Greer , South Carolina's Noah Guthrie.
Including performances of:
Root Down (written by Noah Guthrie, Joy Williams and Bobby Hamrick)
Only Light I Need (written by Noah Guthrie, Adam Roth & Tim Bruns)
Choose to Love You (written by Noah Guthrie)
Follow Noah Guthrie: https://www.noahguthrie.com/
Join my Patreon page and/or hear other Acoustic Alternatives related things: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Nothing happens without Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/
Kyle Joe has previously visited the podcast under the name Kyle Rasche of Chain of Lakes
Kyle has been through some life changes and a name change since the last visit to Grove Studios. Learn more about what he's been up to and hear some music from his new release Take It Easy including the premiere of the extra verses for his song "Michigan Man"
All songs written by Kyle Joe (Rasche)
"Take It Easy"
"Line of Work"
"Knots"
"Michigan Man"
See/Hear our previous session together: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4PzKjV3X0Y
Explore Kyle's website: https://kylejoemusic.com/
Learn more about Acoustic Alternatives and how to support what I am doing: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
None of this happens without the support of Grove Studios
https://grovestudios.space/
Brian Vander Ark of The Verve Pipe made his second visit to Grove Studios on 2-16-25. A new Verve Pipe album is ready for release and a lot has happened in his life since we last visited in October of 2021.
One of my favorite songwriters has done it again with another collection of songs that utilize words that paint vivid pictures. Join us for a chat and learn more about the man behind the songs and hear new music before it's released.
All songs written by Brian Vander Ark and Channing Lee
"Hollow Bones"
"Easy Way Out"
"Dust"
Find out more about Brian and/or The Verve Pipe at his websites:
https://www.thevervepipe.com/
https://www.brianvanderark.com/
Learn more about all things Acoustic Alternatives here: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
And huuuuuge thanks to Grove Studios. Booking information here:
https://grovestudios.space/
I really enjoyed this conversation and was really disappointed with myself for not double checking both of my audio recording sources. The first 4 minutes of audio you hear are being captured from the microphone on my laptop as opposed to the direct source I expected to use. The backup audio from the mixer in front of me....well, I failed to launch it at the beginning of the session, so it kicks in around the 4 minute mark. He said so many great things in the first 4 minutes that I am kicking myself.
But I think this conversation with the award winning musician and vocalist, known for his work with We Banjo 3, is worth putting up with crappy audio for 4 minutes.
Songs you'll hear:
Feel It (Written By David Howley)
Chapter 1 (Written By David Howley)
Haven (Written By David Howley, Martin Howley, Fergal Scahill, Enda Scahill, Kiana June Weber)
Mary & The Soldier (Traditional)
Find more information about David Howley HERE
More about Acoustic Alternatives HERE
More about the fabulous Grove Studios HERE
This singer songwriter originally from Long Island, NY first got attention with her cover of Dolly Parton's "Jolene." Dolly herself appeared in the video and performed the song on television with her a few times. Her debut single "Come To Jesus" is a beauty of a song and a 10 on the John Bommarito 1-10 scale.
Mindy stopped by Grove Studios in Ypsilanti on a night off to talk a bit about life and play a couple of songs from her great new album "Quiet Town"
Songs performed include:
"Jericho" (written by Mindy Smith and Matraca Berg)
"Come To Jesus" (written by Mindy Smith)
"I'd Rather Be A Bridge" (written by Mindy Smith and Kevin Scott Rhoads)
Learn more about Mindy here: https://mindysmithmusic.com/
Learn more about Acoustic Alternatives and how you can support my efforts here: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Huge thanks to Rick and the team at Grove Studios. Find out about the home of the podcast recordings here: https://grovestudios.space/
Another emerging artist from the rich Michigan music scene is my guest on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives. 18 year old Kanin Wren has already captivated large audiences as a tribute artist. Now she's ready to start releasing more of her original music. It's good. It's really good. Meet Kanin Wren from Dewitt, MI on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives.
Songs include:
Hell or Minnesota (written by Aron Rosing)
Could've Been (written by Kanin Wren)
I Was There (cowritten by Lauren Veil and Kanin Wren)
Cry Baby (written by Kanin Wren)
Learn more about Kanin Wren.
Subscribe to all things Acoustic Alternatives (and find the Liz Longley session I mention herein).
Book Grove Studios and stop bugging your neighbors with your noise!
Steven Page is not just another great guest to me. He sings on one of my top 15 albums of all time, Gordon. He's a multiple Juno award winner and Grammy nominee with his former band Barenaked Ladies. As part of that group he's sold over 15 million albums and singles and is in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
There is so much more I could have talked about with this gifted singer and songwriter. So many awesome experiences he's had that I didn't have time to ask about (opening for The Who for example), but I think if you are already a fan, you'll still learn a thing or two you didn't know. If you aren't already a fan, welcome to the club.
All songs written by Steven Page:
What a Good Boy (co written by Ed Robertson)
A New Shore (co written with Craig Northery)
The Golden Age of Doubling Down
Over Joy (co written with Stephen Duffy)
More about at this link Steven Page
More about all things Acoustic Alternatives related HERE
And it doesn't happen without Grove Studios.
Jen Cass grew up in the Metro Detroit area and now calls Flushing, MI home. After three successful solo albums, she started a new project with her husband Eric Janetsky called The Lucky Nows. Their excellent second album is due out in June of 2024. Jen talks about her life and plays three emotionally charged songs from the new album and one from their first.
All songs written by Jen Cass (except where noted):
Broken Homes and Hearts of Gold
Syracuse
The Lesson
Girl With No Name
Find out more about The Lucky Nows: https://theluckynows.com/home
Get information about all things Acoustic Alternatives related including how to support me on Patreon so I can do better videos: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
It doesn't happen without the support of the team at Grove Studios. Musicians or DJs, this is a place you can practice and make as much noise as you need: https://grovestudios.space/
It's been a long and varied journey for Dan Navarro. From co-writing one of the biggest hits of the 80s, to voice acting, to touring and releasing a plethora of material as part of Lowen and Navarro.
If you only know his music, get ready to learn more about some of the other things he's been part of and is also known for. If you don't know him at all, get ready to hear what you've been missing.
Songs written by Dan Navarro:
"She Dreams In Music"
"Better Man"
"Circling the Drain" (co write with Deborah Holland)"
"All Is Quiet"
More about Dan Navarro: https://dannavarro.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives and how you can support it: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Find Grove Studios, the home of the podcast, at: https://grovestudios.space/
Dearborn, MI's Jo Serrapere's first visit to the podcast happened as part of a live show at Trinity House in Livonia, MI in April of 2022. I encourage you to go back and listen to that one to learn more about this Michigan treasure.
Jo is ambitiously releasing two albums at once this Spring and the second chat was based around celebrating that. Hear acoustic versions of some of the songs before they are released into the wild.
All songs written by Jo Serrapere:
"In the Arms of Angels"
"This American Dream"
"Life and All"
Find out more about Jo on her website:
https://joserrapere.com/
Find out more about what I am doing and how to support it via Patreon:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Grove Studios makes it all possible. Rent their space to practice in:
https://grovestudios.space/
Here is the audio only visit with Australian born guitarist extraordinaire, Kyran Daniel. You may want to watch the video too in order to enjoy his guitar playing with your eyes. Tommy Emmanuel thought he was good enough to take him on tour when Kyran was just a teenager, so you know you are dealing with someone very talented, even if you haven't heard him before.
Learn more about him and how to support him here: https://www.kyrandaniel.com
All songs written by Kyran Daniel
"Pensieri"
"Sangria"
"Like the Night Itself"
Interested in supporting me on Patreon and finding out about the other things I am doing? https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
None of this happens without Grove Studios. Need a place to practice and be loud?
https://grovestudios.space/
Mike Vial is an Ann Arbor based singer/songwriter, teacher, father, and husband who is doing a 20 year celebration of playing gigs, teaching books, and ranting rants at The Ark in Ann Abor on May 23, 2024, opening for a mutual favorite (and previous podcast guest), Ari Hest.
Vial is prepping a new release due out soon and he plays a couple of new ones and a couple of old ones and we both have a strong reaction to his third performance. Don't miss it.
Songs written by Mike Vial
Free To Dream
I Just Want To Be Your Last
Two Angels (June 22, 1996 - Ann Arbor)
Burning Bright
Find out more about Mike:
http://mikevial.com/?fbclid=IwAR1hjEpVSE2VKEUCPl54ucYGM2c2IoLCAQTsY4VKkSkGCLiAHKrZbd_dCX0
Find out more about Acoustic Alternatives and how to support it:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Find out more about Grove Studios:
https://grovestudios.space/
Harmonica legend, Grammy winner, blues, folk, world music and rock musician not to mention all around beloved member of the Ann Arbor music scene, Peter Madcat Ruth joins me to celebrate 3/4 of a century of life and a life mostly spent playing music.
His 75th birthday celebration takes place at The Ark in Ann Arbor on April 2, 2024.
Songs include
Jaw Harp Improvisation (Ruth)
Pocket Full of Soul (Ruth)
Phonograph Blues (Robert Johnson)
Walk Right In (Gus Cannon)
Visit his website: https://www.petermadcatruth.com/ to learn even more about him.
Visit my website https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives to find out how to support me and my other related activities.
Visit Grove Studios website to book space for your band, podcast, etc. https://grovestudios.space/
Will Kimbrough plays rock, stripped down folk, Americana, and Country. He is an in demand guitar player, producer and songwriter. Oh and an author working on a book of the stories of his life. You'll hear tales of his adventures and collaborations with Jimmy Buffet, Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider, and a young R.E.M.
My relationship with his music started in 1989 with a self titled record by his band Will and the Bushmen (which I recommend if you are a fan of Crowded House, find it HERE). One of my favorite songs of all time that you've probably never heard is on there. It's also within our conversation.
Will has a lot to say and has a great story. Get comfortable. This is a long one.
Songs performed written by Will Kimbrough except where noted:
"I Like It Down Here"
"Bubbles Up (co written with Jimmy Buffet)"
"Like Laughing"
"Closer To the Ground"
Find out more about Will here: https://www.willkimbrough.com/
Found out more about Acoustic Alternatives and how to support me on Patreon for bonus content: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Found out how to book Grove Studios for your band practice, podcast, DJ practice, etc. here: https://grovestudios.space/
Back in 2016 I discovered a young singer by the name of Katie Pederson. By 2018 I was pretty invested in singing her praises while she continued to put out great music on albums like The Landing and Limitless. On our last visit in a studio together on the Acoustic Alternatives podcast, you may have learned more about her. This time I was very happy to welcome her new project with her friends Jilian Linklater (who I had also first heard in 2016) and Grace Theisen. I got to see one of their first shows awhile ago and I knew immediately I wanted to find a way to get the trio on the podcast so you could be introduced to them too.
Turns out, this is their first interview as a group.
Songs include:
"The Rebel Eves"
"Long Gone Don Juan"
"American Dream"
"Trying To Find Healing"
Songs written by Katie Pederson, Jillian Linklater, Grace Theisen.
Learn more about the trio at:
https://www.therebeleves.com/
Thanks to Grove Studios!
https://grovestudios.space/
Support me and find out more here:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
I've been waiting years to present this episode. It's been ten years in between releases for Yspilanti, MI's, Adam Plomaritas. As soon as I started doing this podcast I told him "I want to do something when that next release is ready"
It's been worth the wait. The EP, Old Time Love, is A+ excellent. It's got a full band and horns, unlike these stripped down performances, but you can hear the voice and the songs in all their glory from Adam's basement studio.
Songs include:
"All I Need Is You"
"Love On Your Side"
"Love Me Better"
"How Does It Feel"
All songs written by Adam Plomaritas.
https://www.adamplomaritas.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Raised in Manitowoc, WI, but now calling Ann Arbor, MI home, Judy Banker is set to release her fourth record, Bonafide, on November the 4th. Filled with deeply personal lyrics and backed by a great band, this new release, produced by her son Ben, is her best yet in my opinion.
Learn more about the four sides of Judy (singer/songwriter, photographer, psychologist and non-profit founder) in this conversation that also includes performances of three new songs:
"Taciturn Heart"
"Bonafide"
"After It Ends"
all songs written by Judy Banker. More at https://www.judybanker.com/
Support me on Patreon and find out more about Acoustic Alternatives at https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Recorded at Grove Studios on Oct 17, 2023
Special guest...some cricket that wandered in at the end.
Jeff Daniels has done many things on screens and stages in his career. One of the things he has done that hasn't gotten as much attention as his roles in The Newsroom, To Kill a Mockingbird or Dumb and Dumber is playing music on stages and studios.
He's been putting out albums since 2004 and, on many occasions when I was a DJ at WHFR in Dearborn, I've played his music on my radio program. Take your negative preconceptions about an actor picking up and guitar and singing and put them away. He's good. Damn good.
His son Ben has also been releasing albums with his Ben Daniels Band since 2008. He's also a talented recording engineer. In the home studio on Jeff's property, the two of them collaborated on Audible Original audio program called "Alive and Well Enough." If you choose to listen, and I recommend you do, you will be treated to stories and songs from Jeff's life.
We sat down on September 25, 2023 in the same studio the audio book was recorded and discuss that and more. You'll also hear:
When My Fingers Find Your Strings (written by Jeff Daniels)
A new as of yet untitled song by Ben Daniels
The Good On The Bad Side Of Town (by Jeff and Ben Daniels)
Mile 416 (written by Jeff Daniels)
More information about Jeff's music: https://www.jeffdaniels.com/
Ben's music: https://www.bendanielsband.com/
My playlists and podcasts: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Find the Alive and Well Enough here:
https://www.audible.com/pd/Alive-and-Well-Enough-Podcast/B0CDCPB67X?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp
Goldpine is a Nashville based duo who I first heard this year at a festival. It was a cold day in June, but they performed their hearts out.
Once you hear Kassie's voice, you'll instantly hear what brings me in. It's hers, but it's familiar. The songs are strong and the stories are really good.
She and Ben have been married 14 years and live a good part of the year in their home on wheels. Like all good bands, they have a back story that's important to understanding their present. You might even hear some crying.
Songs (written by Benjamin and Kassie Wilson):
Do You Have Me?
Thinking About Love
The Human Invasion
Find out more about them at https://goldpinemusic.com/home
Support me on Patreon and learn about the other things I do on MY WEBSITE
Recorded at Grove Studios
A extraordinary duo from the south comes north for the Acoustic Alternatives Podcast to preview songs from their forthcoming album and talk about their lives and career.
Pete and Crystal Demore are Ordinary Elephant. Crowded around two condenser microphones at 9 p.m. at night is nothing new from this duo. It was a great experience for me and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
All songs written by Ordinary Elephant
I Come From
Relic of the Rain
Scars We Keep
Once Upon A Time
Find Ordinary Elephant HERE or their PATREON
I am also on Patreon. I could use your support.
Recorded on Sep 6, 2023 at in Ypsilanti, MI
The Young Fables are a duo from Nashville recommended to me by their manger. Their manager happens to be the husband of one of my favorite artists (Liz Longley), so thank you Patryk Larney!
He sent me their catalog for review and I felt like I had been missing out for years. All three records are super strong efforts. When Patryk gave me a sneak peak at a film about the writing of one of the songs included in our session, "Daddy's Girl", I knew I had to talk to them.
The audio for the songs needed help and I got it from Sean Morse from The Mission Recording Studio. That's why they sound significantly better than the rest of the session. Same recording device as the interview, just in the hands of someone who knew what to do with them.
Songs included:
Drive (L. Wright, W. Lunsford)
Daddy's Girl (L. Wright, W. Lunsford, D. Fields. P. Larney)
Just Good at Hurtin'
House of the Lord (L. Wright, W. Lunsford, D. Fields. M. Smith)
Visit The Young Fables on the web
Recorded at Grove Studios:
Support me on Patreon and find out more about Acoustic Alternatives:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
My first podcast guest from "across the pond" is the 25 year old Scottish singer Iona Fyfe. Drawing from the Celtic identity of her homeland, her beautiful voice helps paint imagery in your mind's eye of far off lands. She's quite an accomplished, intelligent and talented performer who is absolutely delightful to talk to.
In 2021, she became the first singer to win the coveted title of Musician of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards. It was an absolute pleasure to spend an hour chatting with her.
Songs include:
Bonny Udny
Scotland Yet (written by Davy Steele)
The Waters Meet
For more information and to purchase her music Visit Ionafyfe.com
More information about how to support Acoustic Alternatives via Patreon visit johnbommarito.com
Thanks as always to my partners at Grove Studios!
Extra special thanks to my first patron on Patreon, Stan Garfield and his wife Barb Hayes for opening up their home to me and Iona for not only her to perform a house concert for 50-60 people, but allowing me to use their front room to record this podcast in AFTER the show.
Annie Bacon is a current resident of Ann Arbor, MI, but she's lived on both side of the country before landing there.
With 3 albums, 3 EPs and a single released since 2009, Annie is ready to take big leaps forward with two new albums and a book in the works as well as a musical that she cowrote with Kyle Rasche that could make its debut on stages next year if she's lucky.
Hear her new single, a track from one of the forthcoming albums and two from her most recent album in this podcast recorded at Grove Studios.
All songs written by Annie Bacon:
When Will I Learn
Gallatin Pike
California Heat
I Wanna Die Like Lou Reed
Find Annie on line here:
https://www.anniebacon.me/home
Find out more about Acoustic Alternatives and how you can support me via Patreon:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Much love to my podcast home, Grove Studios:
https://grovestudios.space/
Michigan's Joanna (Ransdell) Sterling is in her third incarnation as a performer. Previously using her surname as well as fronting a band called Joanna and the Jaywalkers, Sterling has arrived with her strongest work to date. A new album called Queen of Wands.
Working with Ypsilanti, MI's Chris DuPont on the recording and production side, this release is a collection of open and honest songs that are sure to grow her audience and reach. During the interview, you can hear how far away one of her songs has touched someone she's never met.
Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI, songs (all written by Joanna Sterling) include:
Honesty
So Afraid
White Horse
Girl By Choice
More ways to find Joanna's music:
https://joannasterlingmusic.bandcamp.com/
More about Grove Studios:
https://grovestudios.space/
Join me on Patreon! I could use your support:
patreon.com/AcousticAlternativeswithJohnBommarito
This episode of Acoustic Alternatives features the "distance band" Frances Luke Accord. Though when they formed they both lived in Indiana, the currently live in different states. The harmonies are as beautiful as a Simon and Garfunkel record and the songwriting of Nicholas Gunty and Brian Powers matches that beauty.
Learn more about this duo and hear songs from their latest album Safe In Sound.
All songs written by:
Nicholas Gunty and Brian Powers
"Thank You, Derrick Watson"
"This Morning/All The Things"
"In My Life"
Special thanks to Chris DuPont for engineering and mixing the session.
Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI
https://grovestudios.space/
More about Frances Luke Accord
https://www.franceslukeaccord.com/
More about Acoustic Alternatives
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
Contact me for Sponsorship opportunities
Based in Ypsilanti, MI Drew De Four has been putting out original music since 2006 and playing in clubs and piano bars for a long time too. Recently Drew decided to pursue a new adventure and try his hand at producing a movie...about a group of piano bar singers. Shot in a vacant former piano bar in Pontiac, MI the film brings to life what it's like to work in a piano bar while following the stories of several characters at the bar. Unlike at most piano bars, this one features songs entirely from Drew's back catalog. Strangely, the song all feel familiar even if you don't know them.
Get to know Drew and his back story and learn a bit more about the movie in this rather long form interview done in his home studio.
All songs written by Drew De Four.
https://www.drewdefour.com/
"Marie"
"Be Here With Me"
"I'm Not Alone"
"Gotta Get On"
"Last Call"
Thanks to Grove Studios for their support
https://grovestudios.space/
More about Acoustic Alternatives can be found here:
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives
"Eclectic indie singer/songwriter/producer Leah Marlene has been making music since she was big enough to hold a guitar. Taking third place on last year’s season of American Idol gave her career a boost, but she’s been working intently on her music, singing and songwriting for as long as she can remember. "
Get to know Leah and hear a couple of as-of-yet unreleased songs during this visit to Acoustic Alternatives.
All songs written by Leah Marlene
"Flowers"
"Tomorrow"
"Flashes"
More about Leah
https://www.leahmarlene.com/
Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI
Find Grove Studios online:
https://grovestudios.space/
A fixture in the Michigan music scene, Adam Labeaux has been making music for over three decades. After living in Midland, MI and San Francisco, CA (to name a couple), Adam is based these days in Ann Arbor, MI and has called on other members of the Michigan music scene to help out on his fourth solo album, "Brave Face." The new album is due out June 3rd and in its fully produced form is equal parts ‘the sounds of today’ and ‘the classic sounds of the 70’s & 80’s pop.' You can get a preview of some of the songs in an acoustic setting on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives.
Songs include
"Clutch"
"Don't Listen"
"Straw Man"
All songs written by Adam Labeaux.
https://www.adamlabeaux.com/
Recorded May 15, 2023 at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI
https://grovestudios.space/
Mike Ward is the Detroit based singer songwriter who differentiates himself from the other musically inclined Mike Ward's of the world by modifying his hockey nickname "psycho ward" into Mike Ward Psychosongs.
Since retiring from the advertising world, he has concentrated heavily on his love of singing and songwriting. With four albums, a single and and EP in five short years, this Detroit Music Award nominee has established himself firmly in the Michigan music scene and he's coming for the rest of the Midwest. Find out more about Mike by enjoying this podcast.
All songs by Mike Ward:
The Currency Of Forgiveness
I Follow
Broken
Compact Life
https://www.psychosongs.com/
Recorded at Grove Studios April 24, 2023
https://grovestudios.space/
Sam Robbins grew up in New Hampshire, but, like many aspiring musicians, calls Nashville home these days. Influenced by the likes of James Taylor, Jackson Browne and Neil Young, Sam writes thought provoking lyrics with very skilled guitar playing. Not bad for a former drummer.
You can learn more about Sam including his brief experiences with The Voice and American Idol by listening to this chat. The song that first caught my attention when I saw him in concert the first time is the one he plays first. I hope you'll stay for the entire chat.
All songs written by Sam Robbins
Hard To Hate
Reverence
Bigger than In Between
Saying Amen
More about Sam:
https://samrobbinsmusic.com/
Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI
https://grovestudios.space/
Sponsorships available. Contact me at
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito
Misty Lyn Bergeron has been a staple of the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti music scene since she released her first album, For the Dead, in 2009. She has since gone on to become an in demand photographer and even done a women-centric podcast. We discuss all of those things and more including the new album, Narrows, in this discussion. She even performs an as of yet unreleased song.
All songs by Misty Lyn Bergeron
"Hard To Hear"
"Grief is a Chorus"
"Smaller"
https://www.mistylyn.com/
Recorded at Grove Studios, Ypsilanti, MI
https://grovestudios.space/
Another mighty fine up and coming artist based in Michigan is my guest on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives. Jackie Pappas grew up on 28 acres and played in the woods of Ortonville, MI and her tunes reflect her outdoorsy personality. There's a lovely voice to accompany her charm. I see this as the beginning of a wonderful journey for a talented artist who is gigging pretty regularly.
All songs written by Jackie Pappas
The Extraordinary Flight of the Dandelion
Taste The Stars
Leto
The Fall of the Jester
https://www.facebook.com/jackiepappasmusic/
Recorded at Grove Studios
https://grovestudios.space/
My relationship with Stephen Kellogg's music goes back to 2005 and my first commercial radio job at a station in Ann Arbor that, at the time, was the most supportive station in the country of his band Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers. He's released record after record of high quality songwriting with great, passionate singing. You can learn a lot about Stephen though his lyrics, or his book, or his Tedx Talk, or even the feature documentary about him, "Last Man Standing." My hope was to help you learn more about him through conversation.
All songs written by Stephen Kellogg. Songs include:
"It Goes Fast"
"If Anyone Is Listening"
"Blue Jean"
https://www.stephenkellogg.com/
Recorded at Grove Studios
https://grovestudios.space/
Steve Taylor from Lake Orion, MI is an accomplished singer songwriter who is currently up for a batch of Detroit Music Awards in the Americana and Country categories (though I debate with him about the country tag in the discussion). Dawson's Creek comes up as does his admiration for a previous guest on the program, Glen Phillips.
This Berklee School of Music and Wayne State University grad is out there playing songs throughout Metro Detroit and beyond regularly and has been for a long time. He deserves your attention.
All songs written by Steve Taylor:
"First Warm Day Of Spring"
"Uncommon Places"
"This Old House"
"Without"
More about Steve Taylor
https://linktr.ee/stevetaylormusic?fbclid=IwAR2yCKg1oiDLvI-m5cJ2EgLVmYyt0UCT392IyYYm10nbLSEPgcCxH35q-nw
Recorded at Grove Studios
https://grovestudios.space/
Annie Capps has long been part of a duo with her talented husband Rod, but for her latest album, it needed to be all about the women in her life.
Learn more about her newest project, How Can I Say?, and a bit of background on this internationally known singer songwriter from Chelsea, MI.
Songs include:
How Can I Say
Dirty Little Secret
Only Sometimes
Written by Annie Capps.
https://www.anniecapps.com/
Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI
https://grovestudios.space/
Care to be a sponsor of the program? Find me at
https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito
Recorded on location at Jess's home in Ann Arbor on the piano she learned to play on as a child, this session will sound a bit different than the others because of how it was recorded (see the video if you want to understand).
I must note, it only sounds as good as it does because of the incredible Chris DuPont (do yourself a favor and listen the other two podcasts I did with him) because he took the raw files, which didn't sound very good at all, and dressed them up and made them pretty.
Jess is an incredible singer I have seen on a number of occasions as part of a Christmas variety show in Ann Arbor known as EBird and Friends. She is often the most memorable vocalist on stage.
In this session we talk about her upcoming 40th Birthday party show at The Ark and she plays three originals:
Family Stone
Stones Alone
Impermanence
All songs written and performed by Jess Merritt (https://www.facebook.com/theunderstorey).
Thanks as always to Grove Studios for their support of my endeavors.
https://grovestudios.space/
Two of my favorite people, singers and musicians combine for one session featuring two songs by both artists. Return visitors to the podcast, Chris DuPont and Kylee Phillips recorded in the home of Chris DuPont to talk about the collaborations and show sharing they've been doing lately.
Songs by Chris DuPont:
Setting Fires
Fragile Things
written by Chris DuPont
Songs by Kylee Phillips
Somedays
Float
Written by Kylee Phillips
Julianne Ankley is a gem of the Michigan music scene who is more than ready for national attention. From the Port Huron area, Julianne is making some of the best modern country music these ears have heard. Myself not being a fan of modern country music, that says a lot! The voice, the songs, the stories, the charm. It's all there.
All songs written by Julianne Ankley
There's Still Time
The Gospel Truth
Why
My Heart Always Years For You
Recorded at Grove Studios (https://grovestudios.space/)
Julianne's music page: https://www.julianneankley.com/
More about Julianne's art: https://www.julianneankleyart.com/
Rachael Davis returns to Michigan from Nashville for her second visit with John Bommarito. This time she only brought her banjo.
The focus of this conversation is her participation in the event at The Ark in Ann Arbor on Jan 27th, 2023. Banjofest (https://theark.org/event/friday-night-folk-banjofest-230127/)!
Songs include
Sweetwater Sea
Angeline the Baker
The Wind
Featherbed
https://www.rachaeldavis.com/
Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI 12/30/22
https://grovestudios.space/
Heywood Banks - Musician - Poet - Comedian - Cult Icon - just as it says on his web site.
A performing musician (under his birth name Stuart Mitchell) since the 70's. A comedian since the 80's and a cult icon since he added a toaster to his act, Heywood has been making us laugh with good, clean comedy songs for a long time.
A staple on the syndicated Bob & Tom radio show and a regular on morning shows (especially in the Metro Detroit area), it is my pleasure to welcome Heywood to the Grove Studios podcast studio to talk about his newest collection of songs "New Holiday Standards." If you are worried about hearing the same Christmas songs you've heard thousands of times, there is nothing to worry about here. These aren't those songs. If you need a good laugh while learning the back story of a comedian who has been covered on American Idol (seriously) and had one of his Christmas songs recorded by a Billboard Magazine topping Christian artist (again, seriously), this is the podcast for you.
All songs written by Heywood Banks (https://heywoodbanks.com/)
Cash Cash Cash
Scandinavian Baby
My Birthday Suit
Turkey Bird
Recorded on Dec 10, 2022 at Grove Studios (https://grovestudios.space/)
Jill Jack has won 50 Detroit Music Awards since starting her music career 30 years ago. On the eve of her 60th birthday, she has planned a special celebration of her career in music at The Ark in Ann Arbor (January 14th, 2023).
Since our last visit nearly two years ago, Jill has faced a serious health issue. We talk about that and other things that Jill has planned. You'll also hear music including the song that got me choked up thinking that my friend might not have survived her health scare.
All songs written by Jill Jack. (https://www.jilljack.com/)
Recorded at Grove Studios, Ypsilanti, MI (https://grovestudios.space/)
Nowhere Bound
The Love Hotel
Breathe
Live Like There's No Tomorrow
Glen Phillips has had two excellent careers. One as the lead singer in one of the most successful bands of the 90's, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and one as a solo artist (who happens to have many side projects like Mutual Admiration Society, Works Progress Administration, etc.).
He's written and sang some of my all time favorites and it was my pleasure to visit with Glen and talk about his new album, "There is So Much Here"
All songs written by Glen Phillips (https://glenphillips.com/)
The Sound of Drinking
Center of the Circle
All I Want
Stone Throat
Recorded at Grove Studios
https://grovestudios.space/
Chuck Brodsky is one of the best storytellers around. Though not a household name like Bob Dylan, he's every bit as good at embodying the characters in the songs he sings - and he often sings about real people. Probably best known for his two complete albums of baseball songs (and a third one on the way), Brodsky has released a new album in 2022 and, in my opinion, the most solid record of his lengthy career. We talk about life, music and baseball. Songs heard during this podcast from Grove Studios include: It Takes Two Wings How I Changed His Mind Cup of Coffee Them and Us https://www.chuckbrodsky.com/ https://grovestudios.space/
Bob Mervak is a Detroit area musician who has been both a sideman and a front man in his musical adventures. He has many stories to tell that include people like David Foster, Sara Bareilles, Dax Sheppard, Kristen Bell and George Clooney to name a few. That, and he plays and writes great original music. Recorded in his home studio in Southfield, MI. https://www.instagram.com/bobmervak/?hl=en
There were problems with the audio because the SD card I recorded it to failed, so what you are hearing is the "cleaned up" audio from my iPhone. It's not ideal. If this is your first of my podcasts, don't judge it on this or Rebecca's talent. I strongly encourage you to check both of us out independently of this episode. The conversation and performances were too good not to share. Enjoy. https://rebeccaloebe.com/
Singer Songwriter Ari Hest is my guest on the Acoustic Alternatives podcast. Audio and video for this special session recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti debuts at 7:00 PM tonight. Ari is a grammy nominated singer/songwriter who began his career as an independent artist in 2001. He built a loyal following touring the college circuit extensively between 2000 and 2003, after which he released two albums on Columbia Records, Someone To Tell (2004) and The Break-In (2007) all the while touring both in the U.S. and abroad with artists such as Martin Sexton, Suzanne Vega, and Ani Difranco. You Tube video link: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FpLrHEqRrxlU%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1hAFtBA9765MXW5sLy1C22Cv1uB62lp6R0p721-dabp1k6Y0B9Ps-00i8&h=AT0ji0VNBNHi1gRiePdTDPNAPHG8FhC_lTixKd2M6KD32UeUt2uFhH_gmbiocg218aZ_UW72Hsxs4vC46SBbwSopLB_uSVeGOZPBoUfbky4D3-fkkCz9neYE-BLogHr9yQ&__tn__=q&c[0]=AT0OrgWB9dhjdhfJ7QwGxnQPXp7DzlOhc4zKMEbCrfZs8JyFRnBwVC-EBFETYZmT245OdBh54ClhV_OEqtcTLXpcTkRmhlL9QtAoSHpdgaT7Ou4wVU_kXLTmFZ9ijj8Pq03n8L0SeDubvCFT8sj9MGjk (https://youtu.be/pLrHEqRrxlU) Links to many of the audio only sources where you can listen: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives?fbclid=IwAR0icD6wdWSjQocChO8Sik4w_gR1b8fHQX6L1IaoD8GB9W_7v1aJRyTgsn0 (https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/.../acoustic-alternatives) Ari Hest joins John Bommarito on Acoustic Alternatives to talk music, baseball and play some songs including: I Remember When Doin' The Math Strangers Again Private Party
All songs written by Ari Hest. https://www.arihest.com/
Guitarist Willy Porter (https://willyporter.com/?fbclid=IwAR2CmfE2LtrtqSpxPo385cqnSjOJvdNS1vfN7BHR0oNgGcrEo4SVHNYvClU (https://willyporter.com/)) is joined in the Grove Studios by Dave Adler (https://www.daveadler.com/?fbclid=IwAR0a2ySch3quNPhp5DGD8mefvk5OPrNhyGQe7WbxOZDaAH8h-X9dQokVj70 (https://www.daveadler.com/)) and Carmen Nickerson (http://carmennickerson.com/?fbclid=IwAR3GIG6bBOrng3YwtZGObcy6vHMkdjBhYZnztbX5oyGewfhCgVGngI0ttFA (http://carmennickerson.com/)) for a session with John Bommarito. Willy plays songs from his forthcoming, as of yet, untitled album, chats about his lengthy career and highlights his band during the discussion.
Musical duo The Rough & Tumble sing songs, share stories and laugh with John Bommarito on Acoustic Alternatives
The duo King Margo stop by Acoustic Alternatives to play songs from their forthcoming album. Special guest Hollier joins in the fun.
Jesse Terry joins John Bommarito for a chat at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI and talks about his career. Jesse also plays four original songs from throughout his career.
Recent graduate from the Interlochen Arts Academy and all-around talented musician Aspen Jacobsen plays new songs from her forthcoming album and chats about some of her young life experiences.
West Michigan based singer/songwriter Kyle Rasche stopped by Acoustic Alternatives to chat about his new record Catch and play a couple of award winning songs.
Griffin House stopped at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti to discuss his career and "Stories For A Rainy Day." His newest album has a song that I am named dropped in. Of course my laptop decided this was the episode to have issues. You will hear replacement audio (courtesy of my iPhone) about 15 times where audio was missing from my recording. Time to get a new laptop!
I'm very excited that Jonatha Brooke was able to join me on Acoustic Alternatives. Her first album came out in 1991 as part of the duo, The Story. Since then she has put out many excellent releases including one that found her collaborating with Woody Guthrie by creating songs from unused lyrics from his archives. All songs written by Jonatha Brooke. https://jonathabrooke.com/
Recorded at Trinity House in Livonia in front of a live audience as part of a benefit for the non-commercial radio station, WHFR.FM. John chats with Jo Serrapere from Dearborn, MI about her life and career. Jo performs: Wash You Clean, Stardust and Bromide, Loneliness, Life and All with special guests.
Boston based singer songwriter and all around great guy Chris Trapper is my guest on Acoustic Alternatives . This episode of Acoustic Alternatives from Grove Studios is brought to you by Zingerman's Greyline, A great space you can trust: https://www.zingermansgreyline.com/ All songs written by Chris Trapper Sponsorship information available by visiting wwww.johnbommarito.com
My guest this time is Nashville based singer songwriter Steve Everett. Steve plays tracks from his excellent album Little WIns and chats about his life. Brought to you by Zingerman's Greyline https://www.zingermansgreyline.com/
Recorded in part via Zoom and in part on their CD release tour, this session with The Accidentals is a long time coming.
Former Ann Arbor now Nashville based singer songwriter Katie Pederson talks and sings for you and John Bommarito
He's got a more impressive resume than just being the lead singer of The Verve Pipe. One of my favorite songwriters is my guest on this Acoustic Alternatives episode.
Uber talented and socially conscious singer songwriter Seth Glier joined me for an episode of Acoustic Altenratives.
The first full band since the podcast started. Distinctly non-acoustic, but a favorite from the Ann Arbor/Ypsi music scene.
Well loved Singer Songwriter Kim Richey stops by Grove Studios to chat about her life and career and play 4 songs.
Singer Songwriter Mark Jewett from Plymouth MI and his drummer/producer friend Billy Harrington join me for a chat about his forthcoming album, The Lucky One.
Rachael Davis, the former Michigan, now Nashville resident with an incredible voice joins John Bommarito for a chat and performance.
Rin Tarsy from the Grand Rapids, MI music scene is the guest chatting and performing for John Bommarito
One of the best singer songwriters out there, Nashville's Liz Longley is the guest for Acoustic Alternatives with John Bommarito
Detroit area singer Tom Butwin chats with and performs for John Bommarito's Acoustic Alternatives
Bradley Rhodes and Brent Shuttleworth discuss their new project Elevado in an interview and performance.
Former contestant from The Voice and one of the premiere blues rock artists out there, Laith Al-Saadi joins John Bommarito for an interivew and performance
Jason Singer aka Michigander stops by Acoustic Alternatives for a chat and performance with John Bommarito
Multiple Detroit Music Award winner Jill Jack joins John Bommarito for an interview and performance.
Alison Albrecht from the Ann Arbor, MI music scene joins John Bommarito for performance and chat.
Originally from Plymouth, MI Kylee Phillips joins John Bommarito for an interview and performance
Olivia Dear's impressive career gets a highlight with performance and interview by John Bommarito
Following a performance from outside of Grove Studios in Ypsilant, Jackamo joins John Bommarito for a chat
Up and comer Grace Rembinski from Plymouth, MI joins John Bommarito for interview and performance
Married duo Dave Boutette and Kristi Lynn Davis join John Bommarito for an interview and performance