Folk Alley Sessions: Recent Episodes
Folk Alley
Folk Alley Sessions are exclusive in-studio performances and interviews produced by Folk Alley (a service of the FreshGrass Foundation). Folk Alley Sessions feature exciting, up-and-coming artists and longtime veterans in folk, roots, and Americans music. Hear artists perform and talk about their music in their own words. Watch videos of these exclusive performances via FolkAlley.com, the Folk Alley mobile app, or our Youtube Channel: FolkAlleydotCom
(This Folk Alley Session was originally published in November, 2013) The wonder of the North Carolinian duo, Andrew Marlin and Emily Frantz and the music they create as Watchhouse (formerly Mandolin Orange) is the beauty and ease with which they come together vocally and musically. The songs are haunting in their simplicity - a quality that instantly connects with audiences. Hear the duo's performance recorded for Folk Alley in October, 2013 at the Pond House in Saranac Lake, New York by our partners at Beehive Productions.
Digging into the Folk Alley Sessions archives to revisit one of our all-time favorite exclusive performances. In 2013, Brown Bird (the late David Lamb and MorganEve Swain) stopped by the Folk Alley studio at WKSU in Kent, OH just as their album, 'Fits of Reason' was being released. The duo, influenced by a variety of world music, uses their tight harmonies to add the spirit of these sounds to an Americana roots flavor. In this interview with Matt Watroba, he says Brown Bird's music seems to have "ghosts" of other places and times drifting through its songs. Enjoy this FA Session, plus bonus videos from our "backstage session" from the 2012 Green River Festival.
On a wintery January day in 2019, Kieran Kane & Rayna Gellert invited us to their cozy lake-side cabin in the Adirondacks of New York for an intimate Folk Alley Session. Here they perform songs from their release, 'When the Sun Goes Down.'
Sam Bush is a hero to multiple generations of folk fans - from those that remember his breakthrough work with the New Grass Revival to his current status as king of the summer festival circuit. His enthusiasm for the music and his continuing efforts to stretch the reach of the mandolin make him one of the most popular folk artists working today. In October, 2010, Sam and bandmate Stephen Mougin stopped by Folk Alley to talk to Jim Blum about baseball, the Nashville flood, and life on the road.
In the summer of 2016, folk powerhouse duo The Small Glories (Cara Luft and JD Edwards) stopped in at Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York for an intimate performance, and to talk about becoming a band and their album, 'Wondrous Traveler.'
(This Session was originally published in March, 2014.) The folk and roots music world is full of cross-generational collaboration. But it usually takes the form of folksingers pairing up with other folksingers, borrowing from a long musical tradition. It's another thing altogether to take words written long ago and give them musical life. Leyla McCalla does just that on her album, 'Vari-Colored Songs: A Tribute to Langston Hughes.' Though the collection includes a balance of her original arrangements with Haitian folk songs, what's most intriguing is the way she built many of the songs around Hughes' poetry. Leyla paid a visit to Folk Alley in February of 2014 to perform songs from 'Vari-Colored Songs' live in the Beehive Productions studio.
(This Folk Alley Session was first published in February, 2011) Guitarist Frank Vignola has been mastering his craft since before he was big enough for a standard-sized instrument. Known as one of the best in the business, he's played with names like Les Paul, Ringo Starr, Donald Fagen and Mark O'Connor. The native New Yorker stopped by the Folk Alley studios in early 2011 to tell host, Jim Blum the benefits of beating the pavement in search of a gig and developing a recognizable sound. He also performed a few songs accompanied by guitarist, Vinny Raniolo.
Folk Alley Sessions Archive: (This session was originally published in November, 20011). Before going onstage as the opening act for the 45th Kent State Folk Festival in 2011, the Carolina Chocolate Drops - Rhiannon Giddens, Dom Flemons, Leyla McCalla, and Hubby Jenkins) stopped by the Folk Alley studios to play a few songs and chat with host, Jim Blum.
Folk Alley Sessions Archive: Jay Ungar & Molly Mason Family Band stopped by the Folk Alley studio at WKSU in Kent, OH in December of 2011 for an exclusive performance and interview with Jim Blum.
John Gorka could be the standard bearer of the contemporary singer/songwriter. Infused with humor and touching personal moments, Gorka's music focuses on the heart with an honesty that connects with listeners on many levels. A long-time favorite at folk venues across the country, he continues to surprise as he incorporates changes in his own life into his songs as he embraces middle-age along with many of his fans.
(This Folk Alley Session was originally published March 14, 2014)RUNA draws on the diverse musical backgrounds of its band members and offers a contemporary and refreshing approach to traditional and more recently composed Celtic material. Through their repertoire of both highly energetic and graceful, acoustic melodies, along with their fusion of music from Ireland, Scotland, Canada, and the United States, this vocal and instrumental ensemble gives its arrangements of traditional songs and tunes a fresh sound.
When you combine the transcendent poetry of Bob Dylan with the gritty, real-world rock-n-roll storytelling that Bruce Springsteen made so famous, and then add a dash of the political activism embodied by Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, you’ll have Irish singer-songwriter Pat Byrne. Known for creating a rootsy, Americana sound that has a unique Irish twist, Byrne now lives part-time in the US (he calls Austin, Texas home) and his 2018 recording, 'Rituals', reflects his multiple geographical identities. In January of 2019, Folk Alley caught up with Pat Byrne at the 30AFest in Florida.
In 2018, Mary Gauthier joined Folk Alley for an exclusive session at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida. Here she talks about working alongside combat veterans and with the SongwritingWith: Soldiers organization to share their experiences. Listen to the interview and watch performances of songs from her album, 'Rifles and Rosary Beads.'
From the Folk Alley Sessions archives, in 2010, Karan Casey and her band stopped in to Folk Alley's studio for an exclusive performance and interview with Jim Blum.
Eamon O'Leary and Jefferson Hamer met in New York while performing traditional Irish music. They discovered a shared love of the old songs - from Ireland and throughout the British Isles. They joined together on an album that became the name of their duo - The Murphy Beds - which O'Leary says is a mystery to their audiences in Ireland. In 2015, the pair visited Saranac Lake, NY for an exclusive Folk Alley Sessions recording to play the traditional music that they have "decorated." Watch video performances and hear an interview with the duo.
(This Folk Alley Session was originally published March 14, 2014)
RUNA draws on the diverse musical backgrounds of its band members and offers a contemporary and refreshing approach to traditional and more recently composed Celtic material. Through their repertoire of both highly energetic and graceful, acoustic melodies, along with their fusion of music from Ireland, Scotland, Canada, and the United States, this vocal and instrumental ensemble gives its arrangements of traditional songs and tunes a fresh sound.
We all have people in our lives who inspire us, encourage us, and who push us to dream, hope and create. For musicians Guy Davis and Fabrizio Poggi, two of those inspirations where the great bluesmen, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee. Earlier in 2017, Davis and Poggi released a tribute album, 'Sonny and Brownie's Last Train' and stopped by Folk Alley for an exclusive in-studio performance and to talk more about two of their musical heroes.
We all have people in our lives who inspire us, encourage us, and who push us to dream, hope and create. For musicians Guy Davis and Fabrizio Poggi, two of those inspirations where the great bluesmen, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee. Earlier in 2017, Davis and Poggi released a tribute album, 'Sonny and Brownie's Last Train' and stopped by Folk Alley for an exclusive in-studio performance and to talk more about two of their musical heroes.
She's a poet, a writer, an artist, an entrepreneur and someone who knows how to use her voice articulately and effectively to encourage great social change. She is Ani DiFranco, a fantastically talented guitarist and a singer who first started making music in coffee shops when she was just 9 years old. Early in 2016, Ani was at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida and she graciously sat down with us to talk about politics, music and everything in between.
She's a poet, a writer, an artist, an entrepreneur and someone who knows how to use her voice articulately and effectively to encourage great social change. She is Ani DiFranco, a fantastically talented guitarist and a singer who first started making music in coffee shops when she was just 9 years old. Early in 2016, Ani was at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida and she graciously sat down with us to talk about politics, music and everything in between.
When the Indigo Girls dropped by the Folk Alley house during this year’s 30ASongwriters Festival, the duo was gearing up for the release of its 15th album, Look Long. As they played an intimate set that included two new songs and one old fan favorite, the duo had much to say between songs about the new album, their decades of collaboration, their most requested classic, and much more.
When the Indigo Girls dropped by the Folk Alley house during this year’s 30ASongwriters Festival, the duo was gearing up for the release of its 15th album, Look Long. As they played an intimate set that included two new songs and one old fan favorite, the duo had much to say between songs about the new album, their decades of collaboration, their most requested classic, and much more.
At the 2020 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida, with her new album 'Long Way Back: The Songs of Glimmer' on they way, Kim Richey dropped by the Folk Alley house to wrap her smooth vocals around some solo, acoustic versions of songs from her 1999 album, 'Glimmer.' She also talked about the way the songs felt to her then and how they feel now, with 20 more years of life to them.
At the 2020 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida, with her new album 'Long Way Back: The Songs of Glimmer' on they way, Kim Richey dropped by the Folk Alley house to wrap her smooth vocals around some solo, acoustic versions of songs from her 1999 album, 'Glimmer.' She also talked about the way the songs felt to her then and how they feel now, with 20 more years of life to them.
L.A. born John Craigie discovered beauty in storytelling through music, diving into the folk scene in the grunge-driven '90s. For him, it's about the relationship between singer and audience (so much so that he added a group of friends to his latest studio sessions - creating a house concert vibe). He's something of a neo-hippie, in-name-only Math major who found his true self touring the country with a guitar as his calling card. John stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, NY, to record a few songs from his 2017 'No Rain, No Rose' album exclusively for Folk Alley.
L.A. born John Craigie discovered beauty in storytelling through music, diving into the folk scene in the grunge-driven '90s. For him, it's about the relationship between singer and audience (so much so that he added a group of friends to his latest studio sessions - creating a house concert vibe). He's something of a neo-hippie, in-name-only Math major who found his true self touring the country with a guitar as his calling card. John stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, NY, to record a few songs from his 2017 'No Rain, No Rose' album exclusively for Folk Alley.
At the end of the day, Vancouver native and banjo player Taylor Ashton says, his new album is “pretty fun.” The Romantic is a record that was 10 years in the making, a record that forced Ashton into the solo spotlight for the very first time in his music career, and a record that is, at its heart, about change. Taylor Ashton joined Folk Alley at the eclectic studio space at The Porches Inn in North Adams, Massachusetts to share some thoughts about the winding road his music has taken him on and to share songs from his debut release.
At the end of the day, Vancouver native and banjo player Taylor Ashton says, his new album is “pretty fun.” The Romantic is a record that was 10 years in the making, a record that forced Ashton into the solo spotlight for the very first time in his music career, and a record that is, at its heart, about change. Taylor Ashton joined Folk Alley at the eclectic studio space at The Porches Inn in North Adams, Massachusetts to share some thoughts about the winding road his music has taken him on and to share songs from his debut release.
Kyshona Armstrong was a music therapist before she shifted her focus to pursuing a career in songwriting. Drawing from her background experience of using music as a healing force in people’s lives, the songwriting on Armstrong’s latest album, Listen., is heavy on transcendence and empowerment. During this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival, we talked with Armstrong about all of this and more. Tune in and discover one of Nashville’s finest up-and-coming singer-songwriters.
Kyshona Armstrong was a music therapist before she shifted her focus to pursuing a career in songwriting. Drawing from her background experience of using music as a healing force in people’s lives, the songwriting on Armstrong’s latest album, Listen., is heavy on transcendence and empowerment. During this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival, we talked with Armstrong about all of this and more. Tune in and discover one of Nashville’s finest up-and-coming singer-songwriters.
During the 2020 30A Songwriters Festival, we chatted with the Secret Sisters - Laura Rogers and Lydia Slagle - about their latest album, Saturn Return, as they performed some of the album’s finest songs at the Folk Alley beach house.
During the 2020 30A Songwriters Festival, we chatted with the Secret Sisters - Laura Rogers and Lydia Slagle - about their latest album, Saturn Return, as they performed some of the album’s finest songs at the Folk Alley beach house.
By the time I spoke with Allison Moorer at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida this January, she had been touring in support of her memoir and accompanying full-length album, 'Blood' for several months and had become accustomed to the way her audiences were inclined to bond with her, across their own traumas. In this Folk Alley Session, we discussed all of this and more, and Moorer also gifted us with some excellent performances of songs from the album.
By the time I spoke with Allison Moorer at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida this January, she had been touring in support of her memoir and accompanying full-length album, 'Blood' for several months and had become accustomed to the way her audiences were inclined to bond with her, across their own traumas. In this Folk Alley Session, we discussed all of this and more, and Moorer also gifted us with some excellent performances of songs from the album.
It’s hard not to throw around words like “prodigious” when talking about someone like Sierra Hull. At just 28 years old, she has already released five albums, worked with many of the biggest names in Nashville, taken home a half-dozen IBMA awards, and earned a Grammy nomination for her sparsely arranged mandolin-and-bass 2017 singer-songwriter album Weighted Mind. So, when one hears her sing about wanting to slow down for a bit after “25 trips around the sun” on the title track of her new album, 25 Trips, one might understand the impulse. Lucky for fans, the new album doesn’t actually slow the gifted mandolinist and songwriter down a bit.
During a Folk Alley Session at the 30A Songwriters Festival, we sat down with Hull for a conversation about all of this and more.
It’s hard not to throw around words like “prodigious” when talking about someone like Sierra Hull. At just 28 years old, she has already released five albums, worked with many of the biggest names in Nashville, taken home a half-dozen IBMA awards, and earned a Grammy nomination for her sparsely arranged mandolin-and-bass 2017 singer-songwriter album Weighted Mind. So, when one hears her sing about wanting to slow down for a bit after “25 trips around the sun” on the title track of her new album, 25 Trips, one might understand the impulse. Lucky for fans, the new album doesn’t actually slow the gifted mandolinist and songwriter down a bit.
During a Folk Alley Session at the 30A Songwriters Festival, we sat down with Hull for a conversation about all of this and more.
Fiddler Tatiana Hargreaves and banjo player Allison de Groot first started their collaboration over the term “old-time music” and realized, pretty quickly, that their definition of the term was very similar. We like the same kinds of music, they say, and so it was easy to become musical partners and share that love with other music fans. The duo put out a self-titled album in 2019 and they came to Beehive Productions Studios in Saranac Lake, NY to talk about it and about their musical partnership.
Fiddler Tatiana Hargreaves and banjo player Allison de Groot first started their collaboration over the term “old-time music” and realized, pretty quickly, that their definition of the term was very similar. We like the same kinds of music, they say, and so it was easy to become musical partners and share that love with other music fans. The duo put out a self-titled album in 2019 and they came to Beehive Productions Studios in Saranac Lake, NY to talk about it and about their musical partnership.
From breakups to childhood memories, romantic entanglements and friends in trouble, the Milwaukee, Wisconsin duo Dead Horses (Sarah Vos and Daniel Wolff) tackle anything and everything that comes their way. Recently, they let us in to see how they think about music and musicianship and shared a song from their 2018 release, My Mother the Moon, as well as a couple of new songs for 2019 during an exclusive in-studio session at Beehive Productions Studios in Saranac Lake, NY.
From breakups to childhood memories, romantic entanglements and friends in trouble, the Milwaukee, Wisconsin duo Dead Horses (Sarah Vos and Daniel Wolff) tackle anything and everything that comes their way. Recently, they let us in to see how they think about music and musicianship and shared a song from their 2018 release, My Mother the Moon, as well as a couple of new songs for 2019 during an exclusive in-studio session at Beehive Productions Studios in Saranac Lake, NY.
Lula Wiles (Mali Obomsawin, Ellie Buckland, and Isa Burke) were friends for years in their native Maine before coming together, officially, in 2016 in Boston. The trio believes that music has the power to bring out the humanity in all of us. They gathered together at the Upper Jay Arts Center’s Recovery Lounge in Upper Jay, New York to share some songs from their new album, What Will We Do - their first on the Smithsonian Folkways label.
Lula Wiles (Mali Obomsawin, Ellie Buckland, and Isa Burke) were friends for years in their native Maine before coming together, officially, in 2016 in Boston. The trio believes that music has the power to bring out the humanity in all of us. They gathered together at the Upper Jay Arts Center’s Recovery Lounge in Upper Jay, New York to share some songs from their new album, What Will We Do - their first on the Smithsonian Folkways label.
Anna Tivel joins us for a Folk Alley Session taping at CitySpace in Easthampton, Massachusetts to share some thoughts about, and music from, her 2019 release, The Question. With Dietrich Strause joining her on backing vocals and guitar, Tivel dove into the inspiration behind a few songs on the recording…and explained why the music on this record, music from the guts, she says, feels oh so good.
Anna Tivel joins us for a Folk Alley Session taping at CitySpace in Easthampton, Massachusetts to share some thoughts about, and music from, her 2019 release, The Question. With Dietrich Strause joining her on backing vocals and guitar, Tivel dove into the inspiration behind a few songs on the recording…and explained why the music on this record, music from the guts, she says, feels oh so good.
In late March of 2019, guitarist extraordinaire and songwriter, Molly Tuttle came by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, NY to share some thoughts about her musical history and to perform songs from her debut full-length album, When You’re Ready.
In late March of 2019, guitarist extraordinaire and songwriter, Molly Tuttle came by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, NY to share some thoughts about her musical history and to perform songs from her debut full-length album, When You’re Ready.
Former Stray Birds frontwoman, Maya de Vitry joined us in the studio to share some eye-opening thoughts about what it really took to put together her debut solo album, Adaptations, during a recent session in Nashville, Tennessee.
Former Stray Birds frontwoman, Maya de Vitry joined us in the studio to share some eye-opening thoughts about what it really took to put together her debut solo album, Adaptations, during a recent session in Nashville, Tennessee.
Winnipeg duo, The Small Glories' (JD Edwards & Cara Luft) new album, Assiniboine & the Red, is a collection of collaborative songs of strength, resilience, and connection. They joined Folk Alley at the Lake Flower Landing in Saranac Lake, NY to talk about their history, their music, and their very exciting plans for the future.
Winnipeg duo, The Small Glories' (JD Edwards & Cara Luft) new album, Assiniboine & the Red, is a collection of collaborative songs of strength, resilience, and connection. They joined Folk Alley at the Lake Flower Landing in Saranac Lake, NY to talk about their history, their music, and their very exciting plans for the future.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
What happens when a group of talented musicians get together for a short period of time in a small space with a gigantic wood stove? Musical magic, according to Kris Delmhorst. She talked about this and the making of her 2017 album, 'The Wild' when she and her husband and musical partner, Jeffrey Foucault stopped by Beehive Productions studio for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
In order to embrace change and in order to embrace her own voice as a songwriter, Courtney Hartman knew she needed to get away from a lot of the noise in her life. And so she set off on a truly epic, hundreds-of-miles-long trek, accompanied only by the lightest guitar she could find. Hartman shares insights into her epic journey - which turned into a new album, Ready Reckoner during our exclusive Folk Alley Session.
In order to embrace change and in order to embrace her own voice as a songwriter, Courtney Hartman knew she needed to get away from a lot of the noise in her life. And so she set off on a truly epic, hundreds-of-miles-long trek, accompanied only by the lightest guitar she could find. Hartman shares insights into her epic journey - which turned into a new album, Ready Reckoner during our exclusive Folk Alley Session.
During an exclusive Folk Alley Session that North Carolina progressive sting band, Mipso, did for Folk Alley, the group eloquently talks about "the how and why" of their evolution as a band and the decision to push their musical boundaries in the first place.
During an exclusive Folk Alley Session that North Carolina progressive sting band, Mipso, did for Folk Alley, the group eloquently talks about "the how and why" of their evolution as a band and the decision to push their musical boundaries in the first place.
Sarah Lee Guthrie has been on stage almost since birth. But she has never been up there alone. She started (and still performs) with her father, Arlo, and the rest of her talented family. Sarah Lee partnered with her husband, Johnny Irion, and even though they had great success, there was a folky voice that wanted to be heard. Now, she's out solo for the first time, giving full and glorious attention to the folk music that is her birthright. She sat down with Folk Alley at the 2017 30A Songwriters Festival to play some songs and talk about this exciting new turn in her life.
Sarah Lee Guthrie has been on stage almost since birth. But she has never been up there alone. She started (and still performs) with her father, Arlo, and the rest of her talented family. Sarah Lee partnered with her husband, Johnny Irion, and even though they had great success, there was a folky voice that wanted to be heard. Now, she's out solo for the first time, giving full and glorious attention to the folk music that is her birthright. She sat down with Folk Alley at the 2017 30A Songwriters Festival to play some songs and talk about this exciting new turn in her life.
When you combine the transcendent poetry of Bob Dylan with the gritty, real-world rock-n-roll storytelling that Bruce Springsteen made so famous, and then add a dash of the political activism embodied by Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, you’ll have Irish singer-songwriter Pat Byrne. Known for creating a rootsy, Americana sound that has a unique Irish twist, Byrne now lives part-time in the US (he calls Austin, Texas home) and his newest recording, Rituals, reflects his multiple geographical identities. In January of 2019, Folk Alley caught up with Pat Byrne at the 30AFest in Florida.
When you combine the transcendent poetry of Bob Dylan with the gritty, real-world rock-n-roll storytelling that Bruce Springsteen made so famous, and then add a dash of the political activism embodied by Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger, you’ll have Irish singer-songwriter Pat Byrne. Known for creating a rootsy, Americana sound that has a unique Irish twist, Byrne now lives part-time in the US (he calls Austin, Texas home) and his newest recording, Rituals, reflects his multiple geographical identities. In January of 2019, Folk Alley caught up with Pat Byrne at the 30AFest in Florida.
The rain was coming down hard one day in April in Upper Jay, New York. And that’s the day Ana Egge, along with Alec Spiegelman (keyboards, bass clarinet) and Dave Cole (drums) showed up to play songs from her album, White Tiger, at the pop-up studio our friends at Beehive Productions Studio set up at The Recovery Lounge.
The rain was coming down hard one day in April in Upper Jay, New York. And that’s the day Ana Egge, along with Alec Spiegelman (keyboards, bass clarinet) and Dave Cole (drums) showed up to play songs from her album, White Tiger, at the pop-up studio our friends at Beehive Productions Studio set up at The Recovery Lounge.
During an exclusive session at the 2019 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida, Courtney Marie Andrews shared some thoughts about her work ethic, about her background, and, of course, about the music she makes.
During an exclusive session at the 2019 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida, Courtney Marie Andrews shared some thoughts about her work ethic, about her background, and, of course, about the music she makes.
Songs are personal, and important, parts of our souls, of our SELVES. That’s how Caroline Spence feels…and the songs she’s written over the last 5 years are hugely important to her…and, she hopes…to YOU. Spence joined us and our friends from Beehive Productions Studios in January at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida share some thoughts about her songwriting process…and also to share some new music from her new recording, her first on Rounder Records, called Mint Condition.
Songs are personal, and important, parts of our souls, of our SELVES. That’s how Caroline Spence feels…and the songs she’s written over the last 5 years are hugely important to her…and, she hopes…to YOU. Spence joined us and our friends from Beehive Productions Studios in January at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida share some thoughts about her songwriting process…and also to share some new music from her new recording, her first on Rounder Records, called Mint Condition.
Nashville-based songwriter, Mary Bragg joined Folk Alley for a conversation and performance of songs from her album Violets as Camouflage in our pop-up beach house studio at the 2019 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Nashville-based songwriter, Mary Bragg joined Folk Alley for a conversation and performance of songs from her album Violets as Camouflage in our pop-up beach house studio at the 2019 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Steve Poltz shared the stories behind some of the songs on his newest recording, Shine On, during an exclusive session we recorded at the 2019 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Steve Poltz shared the stories behind some of the songs on his newest recording, Shine On, during an exclusive session we recorded at the 2019 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
In 2013, Amythyst Kiah released her first full length studio album, Dig, and in 2018 she joined forces with Allison Russell, Rhiannon Giddens, and Leyla McCalla as part of a collaboration called Our Native Daughters. They’ve since released an album on Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, Songs of Our Native Daughters. Later in 2019, Kiah releases another new solo album, Weary and Strange, and she shared some of her extraordinary history with us at this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
In 2013, Amythyst Kiah released her first full length studio album, Dig, and in 2018 she joined forces with Allison Russell, Rhiannon Giddens, and Leyla McCalla as part of a collaboration called Our Native Daughters. They’ve since released an album on Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, Songs of Our Native Daughters. Later in 2019, Kiah releases another new solo album, Weary and Strange, and she shared some of her extraordinary history with us at this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Ruthie Foster joined Folk Alley at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida to share some thoughts about what making music for an audience means to her; that process, she says, lets her “channel the good stuff” in the world and it’s an experience she never wants to give up.
Ruthie Foster joined Folk Alley at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida to share some thoughts about what making music for an audience means to her; that process, she says, lets her “channel the good stuff” in the world and it’s an experience she never wants to give up.
From the fears and concerns of a young girl, to the hopelessness of unrelenting poverty, to the laissez-faire attitude of a woman in the twilight of her life, Gretchen Peters creates characters that everyone can relate to. That’s a gift and it’s one displayed most prominently on her new album, Dancing with the Beast. She shared thoughts about the record and music from it during her exclusive session at this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
From the fears and concerns of a young girl, to the hopelessness of unrelenting poverty, to the laissez-faire attitude of a woman in the twilight of her life, Gretchen Peters creates characters that everyone can relate to. That’s a gift and it’s one displayed most prominently on her new album, Dancing with the Beast. She shared thoughts about the record and music from it during her exclusive session at this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Lilly Winwood describes her 2017 debut EP, ‘Silver Stage' as her “coming of age album,” and tells us about it in an exclusive Folk Alley Session performance recorded at the 2018 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Lilly Winwood describes her 2017 debut EP, ‘Silver Stage' as her “coming of age album,” and tells us about it in an exclusive Folk Alley Session performance recorded at the 2018 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Mary Gauthier joined Folk Alley for an exclusive session at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida. Here she talks about working alongside combat veterans and with the SongwritingWith: Soldiers organization to share their experiences. Listen to the interview and watch performances of songs from her latest release, Rifles and Rosary Beads.
Mary Gauthier joined Folk Alley for an exclusive session at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida. Here she talks about working alongside combat veterans and with the SongwritingWith: Soldiers organization to share their experiences. Listen to the interview and watch performances of songs from her latest release, Rifles and Rosary Beads.
Kaia Kater was born into the folk music scene. Her mother is a festival director and she learned to play clawhammer banjo at age 11 from Mitch Podolak (founder of the Winnipeg Folk Festival). Now, the Canadian native is studying the Appalachian folk traditions in West Virginia and connecting with the work of a range of artists - from old-time musician Dom Flemons to hitmaker Kendrick Lemar. A star in the making, Kaia stopped by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York to play a few songs from her debut release, 'Sorrow Bound.'
Kaia Kater was born into the folk music scene. Her mother is a festival director and she learned to play clawhammer banjo at age 11 from Mitch Podolak (founder of the Winnipeg Folk Festival). Now, the Canadian native is studying the Appalachian folk traditions in West Virginia and connecting with the work of a range of artists - from old-time musician Dom Flemons to hitmaker Kendrick Lemar. A star in the making, Kaia stopped by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York to play a few songs from her debut release, 'Sorrow Bound.'
John Gorka is one of folk music's most respected and beloved singer/songwriters, representing the bridge generation between the Folk Revival and the rise of Americana. Finding his footing at the venerable Godfrey Daniels coffeehouse while a student at Moravian College, Gorka quickly drew attention with his quiet stage presence and deeply personal songs. Folk Alley caught up with John at the 2017 30A Songwriters Festival for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
John Gorka is one of folk music's most respected and beloved singer/songwriters, representing the bridge generation between the Folk Revival and the rise of Americana. Finding his footing at the venerable Godfrey Daniels coffeehouse while a student at Moravian College, Gorka quickly drew attention with his quiet stage presence and deeply personal songs. Folk Alley caught up with John at the 2017 30A Songwriters Festival for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
The duo Anna and Elizabeth (Anna Roberts-Gevalt and Elizabeth LaPrelle) came to Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, New York ready to share thoughts about and music from their new album, The Invisible Comes to Us. But maybe even more importantly, Anna and Elizabeth talked about the importance of preserving musical traditions from the past, bringing them into the present, and working hard to ensure that they’ll still be around in the future.
The duo Anna and Elizabeth (Anna Roberts-Gevalt and Elizabeth LaPrelle) came to Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, New York ready to share thoughts about and music from their new album, The Invisible Comes to Us. But maybe even more importantly, Anna and Elizabeth talked about the importance of preserving musical traditions from the past, bringing them into the present, and working hard to ensure that they’ll still be around in the future.
The Mastersons (Eleanor Whitmore and Chris Masterson) shared some of the influences and stories behind their 2017 release, Transient Lullaby during their exclusive Folk Alley Session at this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
The Mastersons (Eleanor Whitmore and Chris Masterson) shared some of the influences and stories behind their 2017 release, Transient Lullaby during their exclusive Folk Alley Session at this year’s 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida.
Joined by Stefan Amidon on percussions and fiddle and by Robinson Morse on bass, Moira Smiley stopped by Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, NY to record this exclusive Folk Alley Session featuring songs from her recent release, 'Unzip the Horizon.'
Joined by Stefan Amidon on percussions and fiddle and by Robinson Morse on bass, Moira Smiley stopped by Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, NY to record this exclusive Folk Alley Session featuring songs from her recent release, 'Unzip the Horizon.'
Chastity Brown shares some thoughts about her newest album, 2017’s Silhouette of Sirens, during an exclusive Folk Alley Session at this year’s 30A Songwriter’s Festival in Florida.
Chastity Brown shares some thoughts about her newest album, 2017’s Silhouette of Sirens, during an exclusive Folk Alley Session at this year’s 30A Songwriter’s Festival in Florida.
Breakups, love affairs, family dramas, loss and mourning – all of it is represented on the album Sera Cahoone says is her most personal to date. Cahoone, a musician from the Pacific Northwest, shared that revelation about her 2017 album From Where I Started during her exclusive in studio session at the 2018 30A Songwriter’s Festival in Florida.
Breakups, love affairs, family dramas, loss and mourning – all of it is represented on the album Sera Cahoone says is her most personal to date. Cahoone, a musician from the Pacific Northwest, shared that revelation about her 2017 album From Where I Started during her exclusive in studio session at the 2018 30A Songwriter’s Festival in Florida.
Some people love working on their own. And some people love working with others. Kim Richey falls firmly into the latter category. “There’s nothing better than a sharing a song with someone else,” she says. During a recent session at the 30A SW Festival in Florida, Richey shared some thoughts about her new recording, 'Edgeland,' a recording she made with her friends, and a recording she’s really, really excited about.
Some people love working on their own. And some people love working with others. Kim Richey falls firmly into the latter category. “There’s nothing better than a sharing a song with someone else,” she says. During a recent session at the 30A SW Festival in Florida, Richey shared some thoughts about her new recording, 'Edgeland,' a recording she made with her friends, and a recording she’s really, really excited about.
Paul Thorn grew up with Pentecostal minister for a dad, and from the time he was 3 years old, he was singing in churches all over Mississippi. For his latest album, 'Don't Let the Devil Ride,' Thorn dives deep into his childhood church experiences. He shared some thoughts about the new record, as well as a couple of older favorites, during his session with us at the 2018 30A Songwriter's Festival in Florida.
Paul Thorn grew up with Pentecostal minister for a dad, and from the time he was 3 years old, he was singing in churches all over Mississippi. For his latest album, 'Don't Let the Devil Ride,' Thorn dives deep into his childhood church experiences. He shared some thoughts about the new record, as well as a couple of older favorites, during his session with us at the 2018 30A Songwriter's Festival in Florida.
Imagine being part of a duo for decades. Things are working well: you're successful, you're creative, you're enjoying yourself and the music you make and yet...you feel that something is missing. What do you do? Emily Saliers, best known as one of the two Indigo Girls, went out on her own last year for the first time ever. And while she was scared and uncertain about making such a dramatic change, it was something she knew she had to do in order to grow and develop as an artist. Saliers took a deep breath and, with the help of producer and violinist Lyris Hung and musician Lucy Wainwright Roche, released her first ever solo album, Murmuration Nation. We caught up with her at this year's 30A SW Festival in FL to talk about the album...and the music she's making on her own.
Imagine being part of a duo for decades. Things are working well: you're successful, you're creative, you're enjoying yourself and the music you make and yet...you feel that something is missing. What do you do? Emily Saliers, best known as one of the two Indigo Girls, went out on her own last year for the first time ever. And while she was scared and uncertain about making such a dramatic change, it was something she knew she had to do in order to grow and develop as an artist. Saliers took a deep breath and, with the help of producer and violinist Lyris Hung and musician Lucy Wainwright Roche, released her first ever solo album, Murmuration Nation. We caught up with her at this year's 30A SW Festival in FL to talk about the album...and the music she's making on her own.
After spending time living and working in a few different places, among them Boston and Atlanta, David Robert King decided he was ready to go back home " musically, anyway.
His new recording, 'Idaho', was inspired by his childhood and young adulthood in Idaho. It took awhile, King says, to realize just how much his writing was and is inspired by memories of his past. Idaho is "about growing up," King says. "About the one who got away, the one who's with me now, the kid who punched me, the people I wronged and the people who wronged me."
Sharing songs about a darker side of his own humanity, a friend in desperate need of help, and the idea that some things are simply out of our control, David Robert King's the kind of songwriter you'll want to pay attention to " the kind of songwriter you NEED to pay attention to.
After spending time living and working in a few different places, among them Boston and Atlanta, David Robert King decided he was ready to go back home " musically, anyway.
His new recording, 'Idaho', was inspired by his childhood and young adulthood in Idaho. It took awhile, King says, to realize just how much his writing was and is inspired by memories of his past. Idaho is "about growing up," King says. "About the one who got away, the one who's with me now, the kid who punched me, the people I wronged and the people who wronged me."
Sharing songs about a darker side of his own humanity, a friend in desperate need of help, and the idea that some things are simply out of our control, David Robert King's the kind of songwriter you'll want to pay attention to " the kind of songwriter you NEED to pay attention to.
Canadian singer songwriter David Myles grew up admiring the crooners so popular in the 1950s and 1960s " you know the ones: Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Chet Baker. And he channels those musicians admirably in his new recording, 'Real Love.' It's a fun record, one filled with songs that'll make you want to dance " and that, Myles says, is exactly what he wanted to create.
Myles came to Beehive Productions Studios in Saranac Lake, New York with some of his longtime bandmates to share some thoughts about the album. And as soon as he started to share those thoughts, it was hard NOT to be absolutely delighted. He's a high energy kind of a guy who clearly believes in the music he's making and from an a cappella sea-chanty-esque tune ("Dreaming") to the song he describes as his "Love Me Tender" moment ("If You Want Tonight"), there's something irresistible about David Myles and the music he makes.
Canadian singer songwriter David Myles grew up admiring the crooners so popular in the 1950s and 1960s " you know the ones: Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Chet Baker. And he channels those musicians admirably in his new recording, 'Real Love.' It's a fun record, one filled with songs that'll make you want to dance " and that, Myles says, is exactly what he wanted to create.
Myles came to Beehive Productions Studios in Saranac Lake, New York with some of his longtime bandmates to share some thoughts about the album. And as soon as he started to share those thoughts, it was hard NOT to be absolutely delighted. He's a high energy kind of a guy who clearly believes in the music he's making and from an a cappella sea-chanty-esque tune ("Dreaming") to the song he describes as his "Love Me Tender" moment ("If You Want Tonight"), there's something irresistible about David Myles and the music he makes.
Earlier this year fiddler and singer Laura Cortese released her new album, 'California Calling.' It's her first on Compass Records with her band The Dance Cards: Valerie Thompson " cello & vocals; Jenna Moynihan " fiddle & vocals; and Natalie Bohrn " bass & vocals. In November, Laura and the Dance Cards (Thompson, Moynihan, and Zoe Guigueno on bass) came to Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake for an in-studio performance and to share some thoughts about the excitement of making her first album that "brings into focus the idea of stings (two fiddles, cello and bass) and voices making indie-folk music" with rich, textured soundscapes.
Earlier this year fiddler and singer Laura Cortese released her new album, 'California Calling.' It's her first on Compass Records with her band The Dance Cards: Valerie Thompson " cello & vocals; Jenna Moynihan " fiddle & vocals; and Natalie Bohrn " bass & vocals. In November, Laura and the Dance Cards (Thompson, Moynihan, and Zoe Guigueno on bass) came to Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake for an in-studio performance and to share some thoughts about the excitement of making her first album that "brings into focus the idea of stings (two fiddles, cello and bass) and voices making indie-folk music" with rich, textured soundscapes.
Boston's Twisted Pine came together at the famed Tuesday Night Bluegrass jams at the Cantab Lounge in Cambridge, Massachusettes, while in school at the Berklee College of Music. After honing their traditional bluegrass chops there for two years, they started to write original material. This opened the door to incorporating their diverse musical influences and backgrounds that range from classical to indie-songwriters to jazz and funk to Celtic. What results is a fresh progressive "pop-grass" string band sound like none other. Twisted Pine (Rachel Sumner - guitar, vocals; Kathleen Parks - fiddle, vocals; Dan Bui - mandolin; Chris Sartori - bass) stopped by for a Folk Alley Session at Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, NY in August, 2017 to play songs from their Signature Sounds, self-titled debut album.
Boston's Twisted Pine came together at the famed Tuesday Night Bluegrass jams at the Cantab Lounge in Cambridge, Massachusettes, while in school at the Berklee College of Music. After honing their traditional bluegrass chops there for two years, they started to write original material. This opened the door to incorporating their diverse musical influences and backgrounds that range from classical to indie-songwriters to jazz and funk to Celtic. What results is a fresh progressive "pop-grass" string band sound like none other. Twisted Pine (Rachel Sumner - guitar, vocals; Kathleen Parks - fiddle, vocals; Dan Bui - mandolin; Chris Sartori - bass) stopped by for a Folk Alley Session at Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, NY in August, 2017 to play songs from their Signature Sounds, self-titled debut album.
Most people wouldn't automatically equate bluegrass with Boston. But, the city's Berklee College of Music has been a gathering place and inspirational force for talented roots musicians. The members of The Lonely Heartstring Band have that Berklee connection. The group, originally formed as a bluegrass Beatles cover band, has grown its repertoire since forming in 2012 " still mixing covers in with new songs created by Patrick M'Gonigle (fiddle, vocals), Matt Witler (mandolin, vocals), George Clements (guitar, vocals), Charles Clements (bass, vocals), and Gabe Hirshfeld (banjo). The band stopped by Beehive Productions Studio in Saranac Lake, New York in July 2017 to perform fresh songs (which will be included on their upcoming sophomore release in 2018,) for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
Most people wouldn't automatically equate bluegrass with Boston. But, the city's Berklee College of Music has been a gathering place and inspirational force for talented roots musicians. The members of The Lonely Heartstring Band have that Berklee connection. The group, originally formed as a bluegrass Beatles cover band, has grown its repertoire since forming in 2012 " still mixing covers in with new songs created by Patrick M'Gonigle (fiddle, vocals), Matt Witler (mandolin, vocals), George Clements (guitar, vocals), Charles Clements (bass, vocals), and Gabe Hirshfeld (banjo). The band stopped by Beehive Productions Studio in Saranac Lake, New York in July 2017 to perform fresh songs (which will be included on their upcoming sophomore release in 2018,) for an exclusive Folk Alley Session.
If you're going to take a break from writing your album, taking trips to Southeast Asia and expanding your instrumental vocabulary seem like worthy sidesteps " especially for Amilia K Spicer, who moved to LA to become a director and builds songs like tiny movie stories. Her CD 'Wow & Flutter' took on this theme of exploration as Amilia added guitar and banjo to her repertoire " inspiring new songs that didn't connect with her piano work. Amilia stopped by the studios at BeeHive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, to record a few exclusive video performances.
If you're going to take a break from writing your album, taking trips to Southeast Asia and expanding your instrumental vocabulary seem like worthy sidesteps " especially for Amilia K Spicer, who moved to LA to become a director and builds songs like tiny movie stories. Her CD 'Wow & Flutter' took on this theme of exploration as Amilia added guitar and banjo to her repertoire " inspiring new songs that didn't connect with her piano work. Amilia stopped by the studios at BeeHive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, to record a few exclusive video performances.
Laurel Premo and Michael Beauchamp formed the duo Red Tail Ring with the idea of reinterpreting traditional folk and creating new music with a clawhammer spirit. Their sound is something of a folk-fusion formed by pulling themes from blues, old-time, mountain music and other traditions into a contemporary acoustic mix. The pair like to create their new music without modern influences " going as far as to write on a typewriter. Red Tail Ring brought their new-old sound to Saranac Lake, New York, for exclusive performances captured by Beehive Productions for Folk Alley.
Laurel Premo and Michael Beauchamp formed the duo Red Tail Ring with the idea of reinterpreting traditional folk and creating new music with a clawhammer spirit. Their sound is something of a folk-fusion formed by pulling themes from blues, old-time, mountain music and other traditions into a contemporary acoustic mix. The pair like to create their new music without modern influences " going as far as to write on a typewriter. Red Tail Ring brought their new-old sound to Saranac Lake, New York, for exclusive performances captured by Beehive Productions for Folk Alley.
L.A. born John Craigie discovered beauty in storytelling through music, diving into the folk scene in the grunge-driven '90s. For him, it's about the relationship between singer and audience (so much so that he added a group of friends to his latest studio sessions - creating a house concert vibe). He's something of a neo-hippie, in-name-only Math major who found his true self touring the country with a guitar as his calling card. John stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, NY, to record a few songs from his 2017 'No Rain, No Rose' album exclusively for Folk Alley.
L.A. born John Craigie discovered beauty in storytelling through music, diving into the folk scene in the grunge-driven '90s. For him, it's about the relationship between singer and audience (so much so that he added a group of friends to his latest studio sessions - creating a house concert vibe). He's something of a neo-hippie, in-name-only Math major who found his true self touring the country with a guitar as his calling card. John stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, NY, to record a few songs from his 2017 'No Rain, No Rose' album exclusively for Folk Alley.
After ten years living and recording in Nashville, Korby Lenker went home to Idaho to record his recent CD, 'Thousand Springs,' in places that were meaningful to him. The songs touch on friendship, life on the road and the fight of Native Americans for respect. Lenker sat down with Folk Alley at the 30A Songwriters Festival to perform songs from the new album and talk about his musical journey.
After ten years living and recording in Nashville, Korby Lenker went home to Idaho to record his recent CD, 'Thousand Springs,' in places that were meaningful to him. The songs touch on friendship, life on the road and the fight of Native Americans for respect. Lenker sat down with Folk Alley at the 30A Songwriters Festival to perform songs from the new album and talk about his musical journey.
The Secret Sisters are, first and foremost, actual sisters. They grew up in a musical family, who went to a musical church, in musical Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Laura decided to tackle stage fright at an open talent audition, which led to an almost-random duet pairing with her sister Lydia and a life-changing career as performing artists. Sometimes the universe makes up your mind for you. Laura and Lydia stopped by Folk Alley's pop-up recording studio at the 30A Songwriters Festival to tell their unexpected journey (the highs and the lows) and sing a few songs.
The Secret Sisters are, first and foremost, actual sisters. They grew up in a musical family, who went to a musical church, in musical Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Laura decided to tackle stage fright at an open talent audition, which led to an almost-random duet pairing with her sister Lydia and a life-changing career as performing artists. Sometimes the universe makes up your mind for you. Laura and Lydia stopped by Folk Alley's pop-up recording studio at the 30A Songwriters Festival to tell their unexpected journey (the highs and the lows) and sing a few songs.
The Secret Sisters are, first and foremost, actual sisters. They grew up in a musical family, who went to a musical church, in musical Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Laura decided to tackle stage fright at an open talent audition, which led to an almost-random duet pairing with her sister Lydia and a life-changing career as performing artists. Sometimes the universe makes up your mind for you. Laura and Lydia stopped by Folk Alley's pop-up recording studio at the 30A Songwriters Festival to tell their unexpected journey (the highs and the lows) and sing a few songs.
The Secret Sisters are, first and foremost, actual sisters. They grew up in a musical family, who went to a musical church, in musical Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Laura decided to tackle stage fright at an open talent audition, which led to an almost-random duet pairing with her sister Lydia and a life-changing career as performing artists. Sometimes the universe makes up your mind for you. Laura and Lydia stopped by Folk Alley's pop-up recording studio at the 30A Songwriters Festival to tell their unexpected journey (the highs and the lows) and sing a few songs.
The Secret Sisters are, first and foremost, actual sisters. They grew up in a musical family, who went to a musical church, in musical Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Laura decided to tackle stage fright at an open talent audition, which led to an almost-random duet pairing with her sister Lydia and a life-changing career as performing artists. Sometimes the universe makes up your mind for you. Laura and Lydia stopped by Folk Alley's pop-up recording studio at the 30A Songwriters Festival to tell their unexpected journey (the highs and the lows) and sing a few songs.
The Secret Sisters are, first and foremost, actual sisters. They grew up in a musical family, who went to a musical church, in musical Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Laura decided to tackle stage fright at an open talent audition, which led to an almost-random duet pairing with her sister Lydia and a life-changing career as performing artists. Sometimes the universe makes up your mind for you. Laura and Lydia stopped by Folk Alley's pop-up recording studio at the 30A Songwriters Festival to tell their unexpected journey (the highs and the lows) and sing a few songs.
The Secret Sisters are, first and foremost, actual sisters. They grew up in a musical family, who went to a musical church, in musical Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Laura decided to tackle stage fright at an open talent audition, which led to an almost-random duet pairing with her sister Lydia and a life-changing career as performing artists. Sometimes the universe makes up your mind for you. Laura and Lydia stopped by Folk Alley's pop-up recording studio at the 30A Songwriters Festival to tell their unexpected journey (the highs and the lows) and sing a few songs.
The fact that Nashville has become the center of America's music business may be due more to its hub of songwriters than even the talented musicians who have moved there. Darrell Scott is a great performer and where he shines like the sun is as a songwriter. Folk Alley and the crew from BeeHive caught up with Darrell at the 30A Songwriters Festival to talk about songwriting and the mystery of successful collaboration (including with the late Guy Clark). Watch exclusive video performances captured in Florida in 2017.
The fact that Nashville has become the center of America's music business may be due more to its hub of songwriters than even the talented musicians who have moved there. Darrell Scott is a great performer and where he shines like the sun is as a songwriter. Folk Alley and the crew from BeeHive caught up with Darrell at the 30A Songwriters Festival to talk about songwriting and the mystery of successful collaboration (including with the late Guy Clark). Watch exclusive video performances captured in Florida in 2017.
Sometimes, working really is hard. That's what Rayna Gellert discovered when she self-produced her 2014 album, 'Old Light' " including creating songs with lots of guest artists and many recording sessions. For her follow-up solo effort, her 2017 release, 'Workin's Too Hard,' Rayna teamed up with Kieran Kane to pare back the creative process with an end product that is fresh and filled with an energy that the freedom of simplicity provides.
Rayna and Kieran visited BeeHive Productions Studio in Saranac Lake, New York in March, 2017 to perform recent collaborated including one from Kieran's 2016 EP, 'Unguarded Moments', the title track to 'Workin's Too Hard, and a new song.
Sometimes, working really is hard. That's what Rayna Gellert discovered when she self-produced her 2014 album, 'Old Light' " including creating songs with lots of guest artists and many recording sessions. For her follow-up solo effort, her 2017 release, 'Workin's Too Hard,' Rayna teamed up with Kieran Kane to pare back the creative process with an end product that is fresh and filled with an energy that the freedom of simplicity provides.
Rayna and Kieran visited BeeHive Productions Studio in Saranac Lake, New York in March, 2017 to perform recent collaborated including one from Kieran's 2016 EP, 'Unguarded Moments', the title track to 'Workin's Too Hard, and a new song.
Another intimate performance and interview captured at the 2017 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida. Singer/songwriter Caroline Spence returned with songs from her new collection, 'Spades and Roses.' The album was assembled around the power that a simple arrangement - focused on voice and guitar - has to highlight the strength of a song.
Another intimate performance and interview captured at the 2017 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida. Singer/songwriter Caroline Spence returned with songs from her new collection, 'Spades and Roses.' The album was assembled around the power that a simple arrangement - focused on voice and guitar - has to highlight the strength of a song.
After releasing her album 'All or Nothin'' and being nominated for Emerging Artist of the Year by the Americana Music Association in 2015, Nashville based country rock outlaw Nikki Lane and her band spent most of their time on the road, playing for ever-increasing crowds, working to expand their fan base, and just generally ripping things up. No surprise, then, that she got tired. So when she went into a studio to record a new album (her third), she wasn't pleased with the results " it was technical perfection, she says, but it wasn't the record she wanted to make. When her partner " musical and life " Jonathan Tyler suggested she try again with no outside producer, she was initially hesitant. But after tracking a song or two, she knew she was well on her way to a record that is, she says, the best thing she has done so far. Released in February, Highway Queen is a mixtape of an album, one with both tearjerkers and barn burners, and at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida earlier this year, Nikki Lane and Jonathan Tyler shared stripped down versions of a few of the new tunes.
After releasing her album 'All or Nothin'' and being nominated for Emerging Artist of the Year by the Americana Music Association in 2015, Nashville based country rock outlaw Nikki Lane and her band spent most of their time on the road, playing for ever-increasing crowds, working to expand their fan base, and just generally ripping things up. No surprise, then, that she got tired. So when she went into a studio to record a new album (her third), she wasn't pleased with the results " it was technical perfection, she says, but it wasn't the record she wanted to make. When her partner " musical and life " Jonathan Tyler suggested she try again with no outside producer, she was initially hesitant. But after tracking a song or two, she knew she was well on her way to a record that is, she says, the best thing she has done so far. Released in February, Highway Queen is a mixtape of an album, one with both tearjerkers and barn burners, and at the 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida earlier this year, Nikki Lane and Jonathan Tyler shared stripped down versions of a few of the new tunes.
Like many artists labeled "Americana," a single title is too limiting for singer/songwriter Robert Ellis. Recorded at Florida's 30A Songwriters Festival, Ellis performed a few songs off of his third and eponymous CD - which he describes as a collection of songs about the intricacies of relationships (good ones and bad ones). Watch performance videos about life on the road and at home.
Like many artists labeled "Americana," a single title is too limiting for singer/songwriter Robert Ellis. Recorded at Florida's 30A Songwriters Festival, Ellis performed a few songs off of his third and eponymous CD - which he describes as a collection of songs about the intricacies of relationships (good ones and bad ones). Watch performance videos about life on the road and at home.
Session Americana started life as actual sessions, onstage in Boston. At a certain point, the stage in Boston turned into writing original music and a trip to Kimon Kirk's home studio to discover their full potential. As Jefferson Hamer says, bands don't need formal studios to create great music anymore " a fact that has opened the door to a freer, less-formal recording style. For this Session Americana Session, Billy Beard (drums), Ry Cavanaugh (multiple instruments, vocals), Kirk (bass, vocals), Dinty Child (field organ, mandocello, mandolin, accordion, guitar) and Hamer (guitar, vocals) stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, for some sweet collaborations and exclusive video recordings.
Session Americana started life as actual sessions, onstage in Boston. At a certain point, the stage in Boston turned into writing original music and a trip to Kimon Kirk's home studio to discover their full potential. As Jefferson Hamer says, bands don't need formal studios to create great music anymore " a fact that has opened the door to a freer, less-formal recording style. For this Session Americana Session, Billy Beard (drums), Ry Cavanaugh (multiple instruments, vocals), Kirk (bass, vocals), Dinty Child (field organ, mandocello, mandolin, accordion, guitar) and Hamer (guitar, vocals) stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, for some sweet collaborations and exclusive video recordings.
The collection of songs on 'Magic Fire,' the 2016 release from The Stray Birds, owes a lot to their work with the legendary Larry Campbell. As he was producing the band's album, he helped them expand their sound by adding drums and being more collaborative (including a song written with Nashville neighbor Lindsay Lou). The string-band trio originally from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is now touring as a quartet as Maya de Vitry, Charlie Muench and Oliver Craven have been joined on the road by drummer Dom Billet. The group stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, in November, 2016 to talk about change and record exclusive performance videos.
The collection of songs on 'Magic Fire,' the 2016 release from The Stray Birds, owes a lot to their work with the legendary Larry Campbell. As he was producing the band's album, he helped them expand their sound by adding drums and being more collaborative (including a song written with Nashville neighbor Lindsay Lou). The string-band trio originally from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is now touring as a quartet as Maya de Vitry, Charlie Muench and Oliver Craven have been joined on the road by drummer Dom Billet. The group stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, in November, 2016 to talk about change and record exclusive performance videos.
David Bromberg has had two successful careers. One as an in-demand blues guitarist and master sideman for acts from the Eagles to Link Wray to Phoebe Snow, his crowd included Bob Dylan, George Harrison and Jerry Garcia. Then, in 1990, he stepped back " way back " and became a violin expert (he still has a thriving business selling and repairing instruments). He couldn't stay away for long and returned to the stage in 2002. On tour supporting his 2016 release, 'The Blues, the Whole Blues and Nothing but the Blues,' Bromberg and his band (Nate Grower - fiddle; Mark Cosgrove " mandolin, guitar; Josh Kanusky - drums; and Suavek Zaniesienko - bass) stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York for an in-studio performance and interview.
David Bromberg has had two successful careers. One as an in-demand blues guitarist and master sideman for acts from the Eagles to Link Wray to Phoebe Snow, his crowd included Bob Dylan, George Harrison and Jerry Garcia. Then, in 1990, he stepped back " way back " and became a violin expert (he still has a thriving business selling and repairing instruments). He couldn't stay away for long and returned to the stage in 2002. On tour supporting his 2016 release, 'The Blues, the Whole Blues and Nothing but the Blues,' Bromberg and his band (Nate Grower - fiddle; Mark Cosgrove " mandolin, guitar; Josh Kanusky - drums; and Suavek Zaniesienko - bass) stopped by BeeHive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York for an in-studio performance and interview.
Bands in the world of folk and roots music often find their line-ups to be fluid. Fine players make friends in a variety of combinations " and sometimes this movement can be tricky to follow. The string and vocal ensemble Low Lily started its life as Annalivia. A personnel shift led to a name change, but the core of the group is still tied to a contemporary take on traditional string music and vocal harmony. Low Lily stopped by Folk Alley's studio at WKSU in Kent, OH for a performance and interview that explains how they were inspired by the Rick Springfield classic "Jesse's Girl."
Bands in the world of folk and roots music often find their line-ups to be fluid. Fine players make friends in a variety of combinations " and sometimes this movement can be tricky to follow. The string and vocal ensemble Low Lily started its life as Annalivia. A personnel shift led to a name change, but the core of the group is still tied to a contemporary take on traditional string music and vocal harmony. Low Lily stopped by Folk Alley's studio at WKSU in Kent, OH for a performance and interview that explains how they were inspired by the Rick Springfield classic "Jesse's Girl."
Richard Shindell is back with a new CD of original songs " and that in itself is remarkable. 'Careless' is a project that stretched out over three year, between his work on The Pine Hill Project with Lucy Kaplansky and his life in Buenos Aires, Argentina (where he lives with his family). Shindell calls his new songs "ambitious and lush" and they stretch his musical sound into a place that is a little more electric blues than before. The collection is filled with the life stories and moments in time that make Shindell one of the most-powerful songwriters of his generation. Richard Shindell made his way to Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to talk about the power of change and to play a few songs from 'Careless.' Hear the interview and watch exclusive performance videos.
Richard Shindell is back with a new CD of original songs " and that in itself is remarkable. 'Careless' is a project that stretched out over three year, between his work on The Pine Hill Project with Lucy Kaplansky and his life in Buenos Aires, Argentina (where he lives with his family). Shindell calls his new songs "ambitious and lush" and they stretch his musical sound into a place that is a little more electric blues than before. The collection is filled with the life stories and moments in time that make Shindell one of the most-powerful songwriters of his generation. Richard Shindell made his way to Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to talk about the power of change and to play a few songs from 'Careless.' Hear the interview and watch exclusive performance videos.
Miss Tess and The Talkbacks rock an old-school rock-a-billy vibe that is the natural cross of her upbringing in a family fond of American folk and '30s swing band sounds. Although she started in Maryland, migrating to Boston and NYC, Miss Tess and the band are now calling Nashville home. Her music is upbeat and dance-worthy, with a contemporary and relatable feel. Tess and her able bandmates stopped by the Beehive Production studio in Saranac Lake, New York, to play a few songs and raise the roof for Folk Alley. Watch exclusive video performances and hear the interview.
Miss Tess and The Talkbacks rock an old-school rock-a-billy vibe that is the natural cross of her upbringing in a family fond of American folk and '30s swing band sounds. Although she started in Maryland, migrating to Boston and NYC, Miss Tess and the band are now calling Nashville home. Her music is upbeat and dance-worthy, with a contemporary and relatable feel. Tess and her able bandmates stopped by the Beehive Production studio in Saranac Lake, New York, to play a few songs and raise the roof for Folk Alley. Watch exclusive video performances and hear the interview.
Ana Egge was a born collaborator. Her parents, back-to-the-land hippies, built a community of friends based on a newspaper ad listing song lyrics and suggesting a 20th century meet-up. Her childhood in North Dakota and New Mexico was filled with experiences with the ability to make her adventurous and self-reliant. As a songwriter, she seeks out artists she admires " like Steve James, Asleep at the Wheel, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Ron Sexsmith, Steve Earle and The Stray Birds " to work together to create great music. For the past five year, Egge has been working with the Danish folk-rock trio The Sentimentals, who joined Ana at BeeHive studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to record a few songs from their album 'Say That Now,' talk about their inspirations and capture exclusive video performances.
Ana Egge was a born collaborator. Her parents, back-to-the-land hippies, built a community of friends based on a newspaper ad listing song lyrics and suggesting a 20th century meet-up. Her childhood in North Dakota and New Mexico was filled with experiences with the ability to make her adventurous and self-reliant. As a songwriter, she seeks out artists she admires " like Steve James, Asleep at the Wheel, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Ron Sexsmith, Steve Earle and The Stray Birds " to work together to create great music. For the past five year, Egge has been working with the Danish folk-rock trio The Sentimentals, who joined Ana at BeeHive studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to record a few songs from their album 'Say That Now,' talk about their inspirations and capture exclusive video performances.
Folk powerhouse pair The Small Glories (Cara Luft & JD Edwards) stopped in at Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York for a few intimate performances and to talk about becoming a band and their 2016 album, 'Wondrous Traveler.'
Folk powerhouse pair The Small Glories (Cara Luft & JD Edwards) stopped in at Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York for a few intimate performances and to talk about becoming a band and their 2016 album, 'Wondrous Traveler.'
Twenty-four-year-old singer/songwriter Dori Freeman is truly from Galax, Virginia. She grew up there, currently lives in the community and her music is intrinsically shaped by the spirit of Appalachia and Southwest Virginia. She was raised in a house filled with music and artistic endeavors. Her father wanted her to be a musician and her songs reflect a comfortable reverence for Old Country, Bluegrass and Rhythm and Blues. She brought her songs to Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, New York for a few intimate performances of songs from her 2016 debut album. Hear the interview with Dori and watch exclusive videos.
Twenty-four-year-old singer/songwriter Dori Freeman is truly from Galax, Virginia. She grew up there, currently lives in the community and her music is intrinsically shaped by the spirit of Appalachia and Southwest Virginia. She was raised in a house filled with music and artistic endeavors. Her father wanted her to be a musician and her songs reflect a comfortable reverence for Old Country, Bluegrass and Rhythm and Blues. She brought her songs to Beehive Productions studio in Saranac Lake, New York for a few intimate performances of songs from her 2016 debut album. Hear the interview with Dori and watch exclusive videos.
Maybe it’s the cold winters that lock people inside, balanced by true natural beauty to pull them out again, but Minnesota has born powerful songwriters including Bob Dylan and Prince. Austin Plaine’s musical poetry comes out of that bracing cold that embraces introspection. His songs have the rare ability to add meaningful and thought-provoking lyrics to tunes with the potential of 100 earworms. After having great success licensing songs for commercials and TV shows, Austin is finally out with a self-titled release. He stopped by to chat with Folk Alley at the decidedly warmer 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida and recorded a few songs.
Maybe it’s the cold winters that lock people inside, balanced by true natural beauty to pull them out again, but Minnesota has born powerful songwriters including Bob Dylan and Prince. Austin Plaine’s musical poetry comes out of that bracing cold that embraces introspection. His songs have the rare ability to add meaningful and thought-provoking lyrics to tunes with the potential of 100 earworms. After having great success licensing songs for commercials and TV shows, Austin is finally out with a self-titled release. He stopped by to chat with Folk Alley at the decidedly warmer 30A Songwriters Festival in Florida and recorded a few songs.
Gretchen Peters didn't set out to write an album centered on death and mortality, but the songs on "Blackbirds" told her that's where they needed to go. It was a time in her life when she noticed the ratio of weddings to funerals shift from gaining to loss. Peters performed songs from her the CD and talked about the songwriting process when she visited BeeHive Productions and Folk Alley at Florida's 30A Songwriters Festival. Check out video performances of selected songs.
Gretchen Peters didn't set out to write an album centered on death and mortality, but the songs on "Blackbirds" told her that's where they needed to go. It was a time in her life when she noticed the ratio of weddings to funerals shift from gaining to loss. Peters performed songs from her the CD and talked about the songwriting process when she visited BeeHive Productions and Folk Alley at Florida's 30A Songwriters Festival. Check out video performances of selected songs.
Virginia native Caroline Spence began writing songs at an early age and was quickly successful with her music. After she won three songwriting contests " Kerrville Folk Fest, Rocky Mountain Folks Fest and American Songwriter magazine's lyric contest " Caroline decided to dive into the deep end and focus on a career in music. Still in the early days of her journey and living and working in Nashville, her songs have been recorded by other up-and-coming artists, as well as benefiting from her own vocal interpretations. Folk Alley and BeeHive Productions captured Caroline in performance at the 30A Songwriters Festival.
Virginia native Caroline Spence began writing songs at an early age and was quickly successful with her music. After she won three songwriting contests " Kerrville Folk Fest, Rocky Mountain Folks Fest and American Songwriter magazine's lyric contest " Caroline decided to dive into the deep end and focus on a career in music. Still in the early days of her journey and living and working in Nashville, her songs have been recorded by other up-and-coming artists, as well as benefiting from her own vocal interpretations. Folk Alley and BeeHive Productions captured Caroline in performance at the 30A Songwriters Festival.
Although Grammy Award-winner Jim Lauderdale is talented songwriter and solo artist, he is probably best known for his many collaborations with Ralph Stanley, Buddy Miller, Donna the Buffalo and others. The man himself met up with Folk Alley and the folks from BeeHive Productions at Florida's 30A Songwriters Festival to share some songs and record video performances. He offered selections from his latest release, 'Soul Searching,' a double album that brings together Memphis and Nashville.
Although Grammy Award-winner Jim Lauderdale is talented songwriter and solo artist, he is probably best known for his many collaborations with Ralph Stanley, Buddy Miller, Donna the Buffalo and others. The man himself met up with Folk Alley and the folks from BeeHive Productions at Florida's 30A Songwriters Festival to share some songs and record video performances. He offered selections from his latest release, 'Soul Searching,' a double album that brings together Memphis and Nashville.
It was perfect timing when San Francisco-based Maria Quiles and Rory Cloud met and formed a musical partnership. The pair immediately began writing and performing as they traveled the country " driving from gig to gig in a tiny Volkswagen Gulf. Their experience on the road (playing everything from festival stages and clubs to house concerts and church basements) has inspired Quiles and Cloud to expand on the people and places they encounter with musical portraits. Quiles and Cloud (along with touring partner Oscar Westesson) visited Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, in April 2016 to record a few videos and lay more tracks on their journey.
It was perfect timing when San Francisco-based Maria Quiles and Rory Cloud met and formed a musical partnership. The pair immediately began writing and performing as they traveled the country " driving from gig to gig in a tiny Volkswagen Gulf. Their experience on the road (playing everything from festival stages and clubs to house concerts and church basements) has inspired Quiles and Cloud to expand on the people and places they encounter with musical portraits. Quiles and Cloud (along with touring partner Oscar Westesson) visited Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, in April 2016 to record a few videos and lay more tracks on their journey.
Bluegrass has always been a mix of musical inspirations. Perhaps that's why young bands, like Old Salt Union, continue to embrace the genre. The members of the band (based near St. Louis, Missouri) come from a variety of backgrounds " classical, alternative, jazz " and they find themselves playing an updated form of the music Bill Monroe made famous in the mid-20th century. Old Salt Union played a few songs for Folk Alley from their 2016 EP, 'Cut and Run' at the 30A Songwriters Festival in January of 2016.
Bluegrass has always been a mix of musical inspirations. Perhaps that's why young bands, like Old Salt Union, continue to embrace the genre. The members of the band (based near St. Louis, Missouri) come from a variety of backgrounds " classical, alternative, jazz " and they find themselves playing an updated form of the music Bill Monroe made famous in the mid-20th century. Old Salt Union played a few songs for Folk Alley from their 2016 EP, 'Cut and Run' at the 30A Songwriters Festival in January of 2016.
Folk music is all about roots. Ashleigh Flynn started with the basics, listening to Bluegrass while she was growing up in Kentucky. Her songs are inspired by the stories of real people - like coal miners, two cowgirls riding the outlaw trails and her grandfather, an Irish musician she never met. Folk Alley caught up with Ashleigh, joined by Kathryn Claire (fiddle, harmony vocals) at Florida's 30A Songwriters' Festival in 2016 for a chat and a few exclusive video performances.
Folk music is all about roots. Ashleigh Flynn started with the basics, listening to Bluegrass while she was growing up in Kentucky. Her songs are inspired by the stories of real people - like coal miners, two cowgirls riding the outlaw trails and her grandfather, an Irish musician she never met. Folk Alley caught up with Ashleigh, joined by Kathryn Claire (fiddle, harmony vocals) at Florida's 30A Songwriters' Festival in 2016 for a chat and a few exclusive video performances.
When you don't put out an album for five years, the new songs have the chance to cover a lot of ground. Hayes Carll (and guest vocalist Allison Moorer) sat down with Folk Alley and our friends at Beehive Productions at the 30A Songwriters Festival -- beginning with a performance of his 2015 Grammy-nominated "Chances Are," which also earned a nomination for singer Lee Ann Womack. Hayes' new songs from 'Lovers and Leavers' take listeners along on his journey from the joys of fatherhood to break-up of his marriage and the start of something new.
When you don't put out an album for five years, the new songs have the chance to cover a lot of ground. Hayes Carll (and guest vocalist Allison Moorer) sat down with Folk Alley and our friends at Beehive Productions at the 30A Songwriters Festival -- beginning with a performance of his 2015 Grammy-nominated "Chances Are," which also earned a nomination for singer Lee Ann Womack. Hayes' new songs from 'Lovers and Leavers' take listeners along on his journey from the joys of fatherhood to break-up of his marriage and the start of something new.
JT Nero (of JT and the Clouds) and Allison Russell (of Po'Girl) " now Birds of Chicago - had been friends and mutual admirers of each other's work for years before that friendship evolved into a musical and life partnership. They released their first studio album as a duo in 2012, and then followed up quickly with a live recording in 2013. Now, they've just put out their sophomore studio recording, 'Real Midnight' produced by Joe Henry. It's the last album recorded in Henry's acclaimed Garfield House studio in South Pasadena, CA, and it showcases beautifully the pairing of JT's songwriting with Allison's powerful yet understated vocals. During their recent Northeast tour, the Birds of Chicago dodged a few blizzards and rolled into Saranac Lake, NY for a Folk Alley Session taping at Beehive Productions studio. Here, they're joined by Joel Schwartz on guitar and Chris Merrill on bass.
JT Nero (of JT and the Clouds) and Allison Russell (of Po'Girl) " now Birds of Chicago - had been friends and mutual admirers of each other's work for years before that friendship evolved into a musical and life partnership. They released their first studio album as a duo in 2012, and then followed up quickly with a live recording in 2013. Now, they've just put out their sophomore studio recording, 'Real Midnight' produced by Joe Henry. It's the last album recorded in Henry's acclaimed Garfield House studio in South Pasadena, CA, and it showcases beautifully the pairing of JT's songwriting with Allison's powerful yet understated vocals. During their recent Northeast tour, the Birds of Chicago dodged a few blizzards and rolled into Saranac Lake, NY for a Folk Alley Session taping at Beehive Productions studio. Here, they're joined by Joel Schwartz on guitar and Chris Merrill on bass.
The Cactus Blossoms are made of conundrums. The duo is from Minneapolis - states away from the nearest cactus. Page Burkum and Jack Torrey are brothers - only with different last names. And, even though their songs are young and fresh, their tight harmonies and rockabilly guitar would sound just as at home 60 years ago. The pair took time out at the 2016 30A Songwriters Festival to talk to Folk Alley about their music and and allow BeeHive Productions to capture video performances.
The Cactus Blossoms are made of conundrums. The duo is from Minneapolis - states away from the nearest cactus. Page Burkum and Jack Torrey are brothers - only with different last names. And, even though their songs are young and fresh, their tight harmonies and rockabilly guitar would sound just as at home 60 years ago. The pair took time out at the 2016 30A Songwriters Festival to talk to Folk Alley about their music and and allow BeeHive Productions to capture video performances.
Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Shawn Mullins has been thinking a lot about love. All of the songs on 'My Stupid Heart' have something to do with some kind of love - of one person, of one country, of one another. While at the 2016 30A Songwriters Festival, Mullins took some time to tell Folk Alley about the new collection and play a few songs for BeeHive Productions' cameras.
Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Shawn Mullins has been thinking a lot about love. All of the songs on 'My Stupid Heart' have something to do with some kind of love - of one person, of one country, of one another. While at the 2016 30A Songwriters Festival, Mullins took some time to tell Folk Alley about the new collection and play a few songs for BeeHive Productions' cameras.
Brooke Annibale is very goal directed. She learned to play guitar as a girl so that she could write songs. She studied music business. Her songs have been placed on popular TV shows like 'Vampire Diaries' and 'Pretty Little Liars.' And, even though Brooke has recorded CDs in Nashville, she is still a Pittsburgh girl. There's grit in the upper Midwest. She stopped by Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to talk about her musical decisions and sing a few songs from her new album, 'The Simple Fear.'
Brooke Annibale is very goal directed. She learned to play guitar as a girl so that she could write songs. She studied music business. Her songs have been placed on popular TV shows like 'Vampire Diaries' and 'Pretty Little Liars.' And, even though Brooke has recorded CDs in Nashville, she is still a Pittsburgh girl. There's grit in the upper Midwest. She stopped by Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to talk about her musical decisions and sing a few songs from her new album, 'The Simple Fear.'
It helps for a songwriter to love music and language. Kevin Gordon lives for that collision. For his 2015 collection, 'Long Gone Time,' Gordon returns to his native Louisiana for inspiration - and that feeling that you can go home, but change is inevitable. Listen to performances and conversations captured at Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York to learn more about how a poetry-writing punk rock skater kid turned into an Americana singer/songwriter.
It helps for a songwriter to love music and language. Kevin Gordon lives for that collision. For his 2015 collection, 'Long Gone Time,' Gordon returns to his native Louisiana for inspiration - and that feeling that you can go home, but change is inevitable. Listen to performances and conversations captured at Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York to learn more about how a poetry-writing punk rock skater kid turned into an Americana singer/songwriter.
Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers grew up loving both music and writing. These two passions led Rodgers to become a songwriter, as well as helping to launch 'Acoustic Guitar' magazine and writing a variety of music commentary. While writing articles and books, he has kept active as a singer-songwriter, now in the Syracuse, New York area. Having a variety of skills has been very handy in an age where musicians are often booking and promoting themselves. Rodgers brought Wendy Ramsay and his strumstick to Beehive Studios in Saranac, New York, for an interview and video performance.
Jeffrey Pepper Rodgers grew up loving both music and writing. These two passions led Rodgers to become a songwriter, as well as helping to launch 'Acoustic Guitar' magazine and writing a variety of music commentary. While writing articles and books, he has kept active as a singer-songwriter, now in the Syracuse, New York area. Having a variety of skills has been very handy in an age where musicians are often booking and promoting themselves. Rodgers brought Wendy Ramsay and his strumstick to Beehive Studios in Saranac, New York, for an interview and video performance.
The Suitcase Junket is as much a visual experience as an aural one. Vermont-born Matt Lorenz is literally a one-man band - singing and playing his dumpster-dive guitar along with a percussive contraption with a core that once saw life as a suitcase. Other bits and pieces include a circular saw blade, silverware, a cook pot, old chair parts and a baby shoe that was worn by both Lorenz and his sister. His musical style is true Americana with a little of a lot of genres rolled into something all his own. Hear the interview and see the videos captured at the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, and experience The Suitcase Junket for yourself.
The Suitcase Junket is as much a visual experience as an aural one. Vermont-born Matt Lorenz is literally a one-man band - singing and playing his dumpster-dive guitar along with a percussive contraption with a core that once saw life as a suitcase. Other bits and pieces include a circular saw blade, silverware, a cook pot, old chair parts and a baby shoe that was worn by both Lorenz and his sister. His musical style is true Americana with a little of a lot of genres rolled into something all his own. Hear the interview and see the videos captured at the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, and experience The Suitcase Junket for yourself.
Old Man Luedecke describes himself as a "songwriting, banjo playing, guitaring, dad." Fatherhood is the central theme of his album, 'Domestic Eccentric' - a collection of songs, recorded with the wonderful Tim O'Brien in a cabin he built on his property in Nova Scotia. When Luedecke and Joel E. Hunt stopped by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, he told Folk Alley that 'Domestic Eccentric' was created in response to his past songs about not having children. Now, with three little ones, he has a new point of view - including being on the road and coming home again.
Old Man Luedecke describes himself as a "songwriting, banjo playing, guitaring, dad." Fatherhood is the central theme of his album, 'Domestic Eccentric' - a collection of songs, recorded with the wonderful Tim O'Brien in a cabin he built on his property in Nova Scotia. When Luedecke and Joel E. Hunt stopped by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, he told Folk Alley that 'Domestic Eccentric' was created in response to his past songs about not having children. Now, with three little ones, he has a new point of view - including being on the road and coming home again.
Robby Hecht is a songwriter with a mission. He took it up before college, because he decided he wanted to sing and that part of that process should be creating his own songs. That was 18 years (or, as he says, half his lifetime) ago. Now, living in Nashville, he is still writing songs, on his own and with collaborators including Amy Speace. Nashville songwriter, Robby Hecht paid Folk Alley a visit in the spring of 2015 to play some songs and tell us about his approach to songwriting.
Robby Hecht is a songwriter with a mission. He took it up before college, because he decided he wanted to sing and that part of that process should be creating his own songs. That was 18 years (or, as he says, half his lifetime) ago. Now, living in Nashville, he is still writing songs, on his own and with collaborators including Amy Speace. Nashville songwriter, Robby Hecht paid Folk Alley a visit in the spring of 2015 to play some songs and tell us about his approach to songwriting.
Charlie Parr is the real deal. He has been inspired by artists of the past " like Guthrie and Leadbelly " while taking his music firmly into a 21st century filled with nearly as much uncertainty as the Dustbowl poets faced, using a bluesy folk structure from the past to add resonance to the present. He brought his resonator 12-string guitars to the studios at Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, to record a few songs and exclusive video performances.
Charlie Parr is the real deal. He has been inspired by artists of the past " like Guthrie and Leadbelly " while taking his music firmly into a 21st century filled with nearly as much uncertainty as the Dustbowl poets faced, using a bluesy folk structure from the past to add resonance to the present. He brought his resonator 12-string guitars to the studios at Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York, to record a few songs and exclusive video performances.
Eamon O'Leary and Jefferson Hamer met in New York while performing traditional Irish music. They discovered a shared love of the old songs - from Ireland and throughout the British Isles. They joined together on an album that became the name of their duo - The Murphy Beds - which O'Leary says is a mystery to their audiences in Ireland. The pair visited the studios at Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York to play the traditional music that they have "decorated." Watch video performances and hear an interview with the duo.
When Amy Helm first established herself as a professional musician, she was able to disappear inside her band Ollabelle and create a musical identity. It can be difficult for the offspring of famous, and especially groundbreaking, artists. In Amy's case, her father was the late Levon Helm from The Band, with whom she also recorded and performed. Amy is now touring behind her debut album with her new band, the Handsome Strangers. Even though 'Didn't It Rain' is her first collection released with her name above the title, Amy is clearly a seasoned veteran with a developed voice that's finally really ready to be heard. Amy, Byron Isaacs, Daniel Littleton and David Berger stopped by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac, New York to perform a few songs and talk about the inspirations for a few of the new songs.
When Amy Helm first established herself as a professional musician, she was able to disappear inside her band Ollabelle and create a musical identity. It can be difficult for the offspring of famous, and especially groundbreaking, artists. In Amy's case, her father was the late Levon Helm from The Band, with whom she also recorded and performed. Amy is now touring behind her debut album with her new band, the Handsome Strangers. Even though 'Didn't It Rain' is her first collection released with her name above the title, Amy is clearly a seasoned veteran with a developed voice that's finally really ready to be heard. Amy, Byron Isaacs, Daniel Littleton and David Berger stopped by the studios of Beehive Productions in Saranac, New York to perform a few songs and talk about the inspirations for a few of the new songs.
Vermont-native, Caitlin Canty started writing songs out of necessity. She needed songs to sing and, when she couldn't find what she wanted, Caitlin created her own material on her 1930s Recording King guitar " which she describes as like "another person in the room." While she was out on the road in support of her 2015 release 'Reckless Skyline' (produced by Jeffrey Foucault), she and Jefferson Hamer stopped by Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, for an in-studio performance and to talk about the new album, happy videos of little girls singing "Get Up" and her move to Nashville.
Vermont-native, Caitlin Canty started writing songs out of necessity. She needed songs to sing and, when she couldn't find what she wanted, Caitlin created her own material on her 1930s Recording King guitar " which she describes as like "another person in the room." While she was out on the road in support of her 2015 release 'Reckless Skyline' (produced by Jeffrey Foucault), she and Jefferson Hamer stopped by Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, for an in-studio performance and to talk about the new album, happy videos of little girls singing "Get Up" and her move to Nashville.
Emily Frantz and Andrew Marlin from Mandolin Orange did not play the mandolin when they visited Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to record an interview and a few video performances. Instead, the pair who met at a bluegrass jam turned to acoustic and electric guitar " demonstrating how their sound is evolving from its old-time and mountain music roots. 'Such Jubilee,' their latest CD, is "home" themed thanks, in part, to the road weariness they found while touring. Mandolin Orange's songs come from an emotional place and use the cover of Emily and Andrew's rich harmonies to move stealthily and grab listeners' attention.
Emily Frantz and Andrew Marlin from Mandolin Orange did not play the mandolin when they visited Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to record an interview and a few video performances. Instead, the pair who met at a bluegrass jam turned to acoustic and electric guitar " demonstrating how their sound is evolving from its old-time and mountain music roots. 'Such Jubilee,' their latest CD, is "home" themed thanks, in part, to the road weariness they found while touring. Mandolin Orange's songs come from an emotional place and use the cover of Emily and Andrew's rich harmonies to move stealthily and grab listeners' attention.
Mike Merenda and Ruthy Ungar (aka Mike + Ruthy) can honestly say that music is their life. The couple, who met while in The Mammals, now take to the road with their two children when they aren't planning Summer and Winter Hoots at the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York (home to Jay Ungar and Molly Mason's music and dance camps). These music events were inspired by the spirit of comradery that crops up at festivals where players and audience members come together over songs. Mike and Ruthy came to Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to record acoustic versions of songs from their latest collection, 'Bright as You Can' and to warm the hearts of everyone with their lovely songs and kind words for each other.
Mike Merenda and Ruthy Ungar (aka Mike + Ruthy) can honestly say that music is their life. The couple, who met while in The Mammals, now take to the road with their two children when they aren't planning Summer and Winter Hoots at the Ashokan Center in Olivebridge, New York (home to Jay Ungar and Molly Mason's music and dance camps). These music events were inspired by the spirit of comradery that crops up at festivals where players and audience members come together over songs. Mike and Ruthy came to Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to record acoustic versions of songs from their latest collection, 'Bright as You Can' and to warm the hearts of everyone with their lovely songs and kind words for each other.
Sometimes, an artist is in charge. In Martin Sexton's case, the songs on his CD, 'Mixtape of the Open Road,' were clearly driving the bus. As much as he wanted to create a theme record (like bluegrass or '70s rock), the songs in his collection each represent its own place in space and time. The resulting collection gathers together favorites that make for a memorable listening experience. While out on his massive roadtrip in support of the album, Sexton stopped by Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to lay down some live cuts from his mixtape " along with exclusive video performances.
Sometimes, an artist is in charge. In Martin Sexton's case, the songs on his CD, 'Mixtape of the Open Road,' were clearly driving the bus. As much as he wanted to create a theme record (like bluegrass or '70s rock), the songs in his collection each represent its own place in space and time. The resulting collection gathers together favorites that make for a memorable listening experience. While out on his massive roadtrip in support of the album, Sexton stopped by Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to lay down some live cuts from his mixtape " along with exclusive video performances.
Drew Holcomb and his band, the Neighbors, have been touring for a decade - shifting their sound as their lives have developed. There's a lot of life between 20 and 30 and in his interview, recorded at Folk Alley's studio at WKSU in Kent, Ohio, Drew talks about song development and telling his stories of real people and important moments. Songs from his latest CD, 'Medicine,' were inspired by happy times (like a magical night at Bonnaroo) or tough times. He also shares an image-shattering memory about a banana suit. His stop at the Folk Alley studios was solo, creating an intimate portrait of the musician on the road.
Drew Holcomb and his band, the Neighbors, have been touring for a decade - shifting their sound as their lives have developed. There's a lot of life between 20 and 30 and in his interview, recorded at Folk Alley's studio at WKSU in Kent, Ohio, Drew talks about song development and telling his stories of real people and important moments. Songs from his latest CD, 'Medicine,' were inspired by happy times (like a magical night at Bonnaroo) or tough times. He also shares an image-shattering memory about a banana suit. His stop at the Folk Alley studios was solo, creating an intimate portrait of the musician on the road.
When the Steel Wheels stopped by to sing a few songs for Folk Alley, they were out on tour for their latest album, 'Leave Some Things Behind.' The theme of the songs are tied to leaving and going and moving on. The album was recorded in Virginia - close to the stomping grounds of most of the band, who call the Shenandoah Valley home. The group is very tied to place, finding inspiration in the mountain music and natural surroundings that color life in Virginia and producing the annual Red Wing Roots Music Festival. The band stepped out of its habitat to visit Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York and record cuts from the album for Folk Alley.
When the Steel Wheels stopped by to sing a few songs for Folk Alley, they were out on tour for their latest album, 'Leave Some Things Behind.' The theme of the songs are tied to leaving and going and moving on. The album was recorded in Virginia - close to the stomping grounds of most of the band, who call the Shenandoah Valley home. The group is very tied to place, finding inspiration in the mountain music and natural surroundings that color life in Virginia and producing the annual Red Wing Roots Music Festival. The band stepped out of its habitat to visit Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York and record cuts from the album for Folk Alley.
Lindsay Lou & the Flatbellys are in a state of discovery - looking for the "the us-est us" in songs from their album 'Ionia' (named for the Michigan city where they recorded it). The band's new songs reflect a further move away from its traditional bluegrass roots to a space band members - Lindsay, Josh, PJ and Mark - can call their own. Lindsay Lou & the Flatbellys' music keeps the flavor of old-time tunes while reaching out with a contemporary Americana spirit that is fresh and exciting. The band stopped by Beehive Studios in Saranac Lake, New York, to recreate some of the magic they found recording tracks live for 'Ionia.'
Anna Roberts-Gevalt and Elizabeth LaPrelle sound like they could have been recorded by John Lomax in the Appalachian hills during the '30s. Their harmonies have a heartfelt honesty born from their love and appreciation of the stories in the songs they sing, as well as the history of the people that wrote them decades ago - passing the tunes down from generation to generation in the true definition of folk music. Along with their instruments, the pair also illustrate the stories with "crankies," a hand-cranked pictorial crafted from fabric, yarn and other colorful elements. Anna & Elizabeth were recorded for Folk Alley by Beehive Productions in Saranac Lake, New York.