Acoustic Alternatives

15 years after her debut EP, Ann Arbor, MI area musician Abigail Stauffer has finally released her 4th full length record. Delayed by a pandemic and the distance her collaborator Dave Haughey (aka Dave the Cellist), the newest release doesn't fit neatly into a musical category, but rather is an extension of the genre bending folk on her previous releases. Abigail opens up in this conversation about her past and present for Acoustic Alternatives.Songs written by Abigail Stauffer, except where noted:Alone To Dream Pulling Teeth (co-written with Dave Haughey)Wanderer (co-written with Dave Haughey)BlanketMore about Abigail: http://abigailstauffer.com/Support Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesGrove Studios is the best! https://grovestudios.space/

Boston area singer/songwriter/storyteller/delightful human Hayley Reardon joined me for a conversation in Grove Studios on April 23, 2025. She's been on my radar for over a decade, but this was our first chance to meet and talk.Songs written by Hayley Reardon:Enough Is EverythingGood NewsBone DanceThe Little SadnessMore info on Hayley: https://www.hayleyreardon.com/More info on Acoustic Alternatives: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesMore info on Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/

Portland, OR based duo Fox & Bones joined me and gave me a peek into their world. They also played a couple new songs (including one, as of the time of publishing this, unreleased).Meet Scott Gilmore and Sarah Vitort on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives.Songs written by Scott Gilmore and Sarah Vitort"Ain't Giving Up Tonight""Strange and Wonderous Place""Long Time Honey""The Borderline"More about Fox & Bones: https://foxandbones.com/More about all things Acoustic Alternatives, including how to support me on Patreon https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesEternal love and gratitude to Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/

It's been a decade since I last visited with this gifted vocalist. He's certainly had some great experiences since we last spoke. His voice and songwriting have only gotten better. Let me introduce you to, if you don't already know him, Greer , South Carolina's Noah Guthrie.Including performances of:Root Down (written by Noah Guthrie, Joy Williams and Bobby Hamrick)Only Light I Need (written by Noah Guthrie, Adam Roth & Tim Bruns)Choose to Love You (written by Noah Guthrie)Follow Noah Guthrie: https://www.noahguthrie.com/Join my Patreon page and/or hear other Acoustic Alternatives related things: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesNothing happens without Grove Studios: https://grovestudios.space/

Kyle Joe has previously visited the podcast under the name Kyle Rasche of Chain of LakesKyle has been through some life changes and a name change since the last visit to Grove Studios. Learn more about what he's been up to and hear some music from his new release Take It Easy including the premiere of the extra verses for his song "Michigan Man"All songs written by Kyle Joe (Rasche)"Take It Easy""Line of Work""Knots""Michigan Man"See/Hear our previous session together: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4PzKjV3X0YExplore Kyle's website: https://kylejoemusic.com/Learn more about Acoustic Alternatives and how to support what I am doing: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesNone of this happens without the support of Grove Studioshttps://grovestudios.space/

Brian Vander Ark of The Verve Pipe made his second visit to Grove Studios on 2-16-25. A new Verve Pipe album is ready for release and a lot has happened in his life since we last visited in October of 2021. One of my favorite songwriters has done it again with another collection of songs that utilize words that paint vivid pictures. Join us for a chat and learn more about the man behind the songs and hear new music before it's released.All songs written by Brian Vander Ark and Channing Lee"Hollow Bones""Easy Way Out""Dust"Find out more about Brian and/or The Verve Pipe at his websites:https://www.thevervepipe.com/https://www.brianvanderark.com/Learn more about all things Acoustic Alternatives here: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesAnd huuuuuge thanks to Grove Studios. Booking information here:https://grovestudios.space/

I really enjoyed this conversation and was really disappointed with myself for not double checking both of my audio recording sources. The first 4 minutes of audio you hear are being captured from the microphone on my laptop as opposed to the direct source I expected to use. The backup audio from the mixer in front of me....well, I failed to launch it at the beginning of the session, so it kicks in around the 4 minute mark. He said so many great things in the first 4 minutes that I am kicking myself.But I think this conversation with the award winning musician and vocalist, known for his work with We Banjo 3, is worth putting up with crappy audio for 4 minutes.Songs you'll hear:Feel It (Written By David Howley)Chapter 1 (Written By David Howley)Haven (Written By David Howley, Martin Howley, Fergal Scahill, Enda Scahill, Kiana June Weber)Mary & The Soldier (Traditional)Find more information about David Howley HEREMore about Acoustic Alternatives HEREMore about the fabulous Grove Studios HERE

This singer songwriter originally from Long Island, NY first got attention with her cover of Dolly Parton's "Jolene." Dolly herself appeared in the video and performed the song on television with her a few times. Her debut single "Come To Jesus" is a beauty of a song and a 10 on the John Bommarito 1-10 scale.Mindy stopped by Grove Studios in Ypsilanti on a night off to talk a bit about life and play a couple of songs from her great new album "Quiet Town"Songs performed include:"Jericho" (written by Mindy Smith and Matraca Berg)"Come To Jesus" (written by Mindy Smith)"I'd Rather Be A Bridge" (written by Mindy Smith and Kevin Scott Rhoads) Learn more about Mindy here: https://mindysmithmusic.com/Learn more about Acoustic Alternatives and how you can support my efforts here: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesHuge thanks to Rick and the team at Grove Studios. Find out about the home of the podcast recordings here: https://grovestudios.space/

Another emerging artist from the rich Michigan music scene is my guest on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives. 18 year old Kanin Wren has already captivated large audiences as a tribute artist. Now she's ready to start releasing more of her original music. It's good. It's really good. Meet Kanin Wren from Dewitt, MI on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives.Songs include:Hell or Minnesota (written by Aron Rosing)Could've Been (written by Kanin Wren)I Was There (cowritten by Lauren Veil and Kanin Wren)Cry Baby (written by Kanin Wren)Learn more about Kanin Wren.Subscribe to all things Acoustic Alternatives (and find the Liz Longley session I mention herein).Book Grove Studios and stop bugging your neighbors with your noise!

Steven Page is not just another great guest to me. He sings on one of my top 15 albums of all time, Gordon. He's a multiple Juno award winner and Grammy nominee with his former band Barenaked Ladies. As part of that group he's sold over 15 million albums and singles and is in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. There is so much more I could have talked about with this gifted singer and songwriter. So many awesome experiences he's had that I didn't have time to ask about (opening for The Who for example), but I think if you are already a fan, you'll still learn a thing or two you didn't know. If you aren't already a fan, welcome to the club.All songs written by Steven Page:What a Good Boy (co written by Ed Robertson)A New Shore (co written with Craig Northery)The Golden Age of Doubling DownOver Joy (co written with Stephen Duffy)More about at this link Steven Page More about all things Acoustic Alternatives related HEREAnd it doesn't happen without Grove Studios.

Jen Cass grew up in the Metro Detroit area and now calls Flushing, MI home. After three successful solo albums, she started a new project with her husband Eric Janetsky called The Lucky Nows. Their excellent second album is due out in June of 2024. Jen talks about her life and plays three emotionally charged songs from the new album and one from their first.All songs written by Jen Cass (except where noted):Broken Homes and Hearts of GoldSyracuseThe Lesson (Jen Cass, Michael Robertson, Eric Janetsky, Jack Redmond Barnes)Girl With No NameFind out more about The Lucky Nows: https://theluckynows.com/homeGet information about all things Acoustic Alternatives related including how to support me on Patreon so I can do better videos: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesIt doesn't happen without the support of the team at Grove Studios. Musicians or DJs, this is a place you can practice and make as much noise as you need: https://grovestudios.space/

It's been a long and varied journey for Dan Navarro. From co-writing one of the biggest hits of the 80s, to voice acting, to touring and releasing a plethora of material as part of Lowen and Navarro. If you only know his music, get ready to learn more about some of the other things he's been part of and is also known for. If you don't know him at all, get ready to hear what you've been missing.Songs written by Dan Navarro:"She Dreams In Music""Better Man""Circling the Drain" (co write with Deborah Holland)""All Is Quiet"More about Dan Navarro: https://dannavarro.com/More about Acoustic Alternatives and how you can support it: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesFind Grove Studios, the home of the podcast, at: https://grovestudios.space/

Dearborn, MI's Jo Serrapere's first visit to the podcast happened as part of a live show at Trinity House in Livonia, MI in April of 2022. I encourage you to go back and listen to that one to learn more about this Michigan treasure.Jo is ambitiously releasing two albums at once this Spring and the second chat was based around celebrating that. Hear acoustic versions of some of the songs before they are released into the wild.All songs written by Jo Serrapere:"In the Arms of Angels""This American Dream""Life and All"Find out more about Jo on her website:https://joserrapere.com/Find out more about what I am doing and how to support it via Patreon:https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesGrove Studios makes it all possible. Rent their space to practice in:https://grovestudios.space/

Here is the audio only visit with Australian born guitarist extraordinaire, Kyran Daniel. You may want to watch the video too in order to enjoy his guitar playing with your eyes. Tommy Emmanuel thought he was good enough to take him on tour when Kyran was just a teenager, so you know you are dealing with someone very talented, even if you haven't heard him before.Learn more about him and how to support him here: https://www.kyrandaniel.comAll songs written by Kyran Daniel"Pensieri" "Sangria""Like the Night Itself"Interested in supporting me on Patreon and finding out about the other things I am doing? https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesNone of this happens without Grove Studios. Need a place to practice and be loud?https://grovestudios.space/

Mike Vial is an Ann Arbor based singer/songwriter, teacher, father, and husband who is doing a 20 year celebration of playing gigs, teaching books, and ranting rants at The Ark in Ann Abor on May 23, 2024, opening for a mutual favorite (and previous podcast guest), Ari Hest. Vial is prepping a new release due out soon and he plays a couple of new ones and a couple of old ones and we both have a strong reaction to his third performance. Don't miss it.Songs written by Mike VialFree To DreamI Just Want To Be Your LastTwo Angels (June 22, 1996 - Ann Arbor)Burning BrightFind out more about Mike:http://mikevial.com/?fbclid=IwAR1hjEpVSE2VKEUCPl54ucYGM2c2IoLCAQTsY4VKkSkGCLiAHKrZbd_dCX0Find out more about Acoustic Alternatives and how to support it:https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesFind out more about Grove Studios:https://grovestudios.space/

Harmonica legend, Grammy winner, blues, folk, world music and rock musician not to mention all around beloved member of the Ann Arbor music scene, Peter Madcat Ruth joins me to celebrate 3/4 of a century of life and a life mostly spent playing music.His 75th birthday celebration takes place at The Ark in Ann Arbor on April 2, 2024.Songs includeJaw Harp Improvisation (Ruth)Pocket Full of Soul (Ruth)Phonograph Blues (Robert Johnson)Walk Right In (Gus Cannon)Visit his website: https://www.petermadcatruth.com/ to learn even more about him.Visit my website https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives to find out how to support me and my other related activities.Visit Grove Studios website to book space for your band, podcast, etc. https://grovestudios.space/

Will Kimbrough plays rock, stripped down folk, Americana, and Country. He is an in demand guitar player, producer and songwriter. Oh and an author working on a book of the stories of his life. You'll hear tales of his adventures and collaborations with Jimmy Buffet, Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider, and a young R.E.M.My relationship with his music started in 1989 with a self titled record by his band Will and the Bushmen (which I recommend if you are a fan of Crowded House, find it HERE). One of my favorite songs of all time that you've probably never heard is on there. It's also within our conversation.Will has a lot to say and has a great story. Get comfortable. This is a long one.Songs performed written by Will Kimbrough except where noted:"I Like It Down Here""Bubbles Up (co written with Jimmy Buffet)""Like Laughing""Closer To the Ground"Find out more about Will here: https://www.willkimbrough.com/Found out more about Acoustic Alternatives and how to support me on Patreon for bonus content: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesFound out how to book Grove Studios for your band practice, podcast, DJ practice, etc. here: https://grovestudios.space/

Back in 2016 I discovered a young singer by the name of Katie Pederson. By 2018 I was pretty invested in singing her praises while she continued to put out great music on albums like The Landing and Limitless. On our last visit in a studio together on the Acoustic Alternatives podcast, you may have learned more about her. This time I was very happy to welcome her new project with her friends Jillian Linklater (who I had also first heard in 2016) and Grace Theisen. I got to see one of their first shows awhile ago and I knew immediately I wanted to find a way to get the trio on the podcast so you could be introduced to them too.Turns out, this is their first interview as a group.Songs include:"The Rebel Eves""Long Gone Don Juan""American Dream""Trying To Find Healing"Songs written by Katie Pederson, Jillian Linklater, Grace Theisen.Learn more about the trio at:https://www.therebeleves.com/Thanks to Grove Studios!https://grovestudios.space/Support me and find out more here:https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives

I've been waiting years to present this episode. It's been ten years in between releases for Yspilanti, MI's, Adam Plomaritas. As soon as I started doing this podcast I told him "I want to do something when that next release is ready"It's been worth the wait. The EP, Old Time Love, is A+ excellent. It's got a full band and horns, unlike these stripped down performances, but you can hear the voice and the songs in all their glory from Adam's basement studio.Songs include:"All I Need Is You""Love On Your Side""Love Me Better""How Does It Feel"All songs written by Adam Plomaritas.https://www.adamplomaritas.com/More about Acoustic Alternatives:https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives

Raised in Manitowoc, WI, but now calling Ann Arbor, MI home, Judy Banker is set to release her fourth record, Bonafide, on November the 4th. Filled with deeply personal lyrics and backed by a great band, this new release, produced by her son Ben, is her best yet in my opinion.Learn more about the four sides of Judy (singer/songwriter, photographer, psychologist and non-profit founder) in this conversation that also includes performances of three new songs:"Taciturn Heart""Bonafide""After It Ends"all songs written by Judy Banker. More at https://www.judybanker.com/Support me on Patreon and find out more about Acoustic Alternatives at https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesRecorded at Grove Studios on Oct 17, 2023Special guest...some cricket that wandered in at the end.

Jeff Daniels has done many things on screens and stages in his career. One of the things he has done that hasn't gotten as much attention as his roles in The Newsroom, To Kill a Mockingbird or Dumb and Dumber is playing music on stages and studios. He's been putting out albums since 2004 and, on many occasions when I was a DJ at WHFR in Dearborn, I've played his music on my radio program. Take your negative preconceptions about an actor picking up and guitar and singing and put them away. He's good. Damn good. His son Ben has also been releasing albums with his Ben Daniels Band since 2008. He's also a talented recording engineer. In the home studio on Jeff's property, the two of them collaborated on Audible Original audio program called "Alive and Well Enough." If you choose to listen, and I recommend you do, you will be treated to stories and songs from Jeff's life. We sat down on September 25, 2023 in the same studio the audio book was recorded and discuss that and more. You'll also hear:When My Fingers Find Your Strings (written by Jeff Daniels)A new as of yet untitled song by Ben DanielsThe Good On The Bad Side Of Town (by Jeff and Ben Daniels)Mile 416 (written by Jeff Daniels)More information about Jeff's music: https://www.jeffdaniels.com/Ben's music: https://www.bendanielsband.com/My playlists and podcasts: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesFind the Alive and Well Enough here:https://www.audible.com/pd/Alive-and-Well-Enough-Podcast/B0CDCPB67X?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp

Goldpine is a Nashville based duo who I first heard this year at a festival. It was a cold day in June, but they performed their hearts out.Once you hear Kassie's voice, you'll instantly hear what brings me in. It's hers, but it's familiar. The songs are strong and the stories are really good. She and Ben have been married 14 years and live a good part of the year in their home on wheels. Like all good bands, they have a back story that's important to understanding their present. You might even hear some crying.Songs (written by Benjamin and Kassie Wilson):Do You Have Me?Thinking About LoveThe Human InvasionFind out more about them at https://goldpinemusic.com/homeSupport me on Patreon and learn about the other things I do on MY WEBSITERecorded at Grove Studios

A extraordinary duo from the south comes north for the Acoustic Alternatives Podcast to preview songs from their forthcoming album and talk about their lives and career. Pete and Crystal Demore are Ordinary Elephant. Crowded around two condenser microphones at 9 p.m. at night is nothing new from this duo. It was a great experience for me and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. All songs written by Ordinary ElephantI Come FromRelic of the RainScars We KeepOnce Upon A TimeFind Ordinary Elephant HERE or their PATREONI am also on Patreon. I could use your support.Recorded on Sep 6, 2023 at in Ypsilanti, MI

The Young Fables are a duo from Nashville recommended to me by their manger. Their manager happens to be the husband of one of my favorite artists (Liz Longley), so thank you Patryk Larney! He sent me their catalog for review and I felt like I had been missing out for years. All three records are super strong efforts. When Patryk gave me a sneak peak at a film about the writing of one of the songs included in our session, "Daddy's Girl", I knew I had to talk to them.The audio for the songs needed help and I got it from Sean Morse from The Mission Recording Studio. That's why they sound significantly better than the rest of the session. Same recording device as the interview, just in the hands of someone who knew what to do with them.Songs included:Drive (L. Wright, W. Lunsford)Daddy's Girl (L. Wright, W. Lunsford, D. Fields. P. Larney)Just Good at Hurtin' (L. Wright, W. Lunsford)House of the Lord (L. Wright, W. Lunsford, D. Fields. M. Smith)Visit The Young Fables on the webRecorded at Grove Studios:Support me on Patreon and find out more about Acoustic Alternatives:https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives

My first podcast guest from "across the pond" is the 25 year old Scottish singer Iona Fyfe. Drawing from the Celtic identity of her homeland, her beautiful voice helps paint imagery in your mind's eye of far off lands. She's quite an accomplished, intelligent and talented performer who is absolutely delightful to talk to.In 2021, she became the first singer to win the coveted title of Musician of the Year at the MG ALBA Scots Trad Music Awards. It was an absolute pleasure to spend an hour chatting with her.Songs include:Bonny UdnyScotland Yet (written by Davy Steele)The Waters MeetFor more information and to purchase her music Visit Ionafyfe.comMore information about how to support Acoustic Alternatives via Patreon visit johnbommarito.comThanks as always to my partners at Grove Studios!Extra special thanks to my first patron on Patreon, Stan Garfield and his wife Barb Hayes for opening up their home to me and Iona for not only her to perform a house concert for 50-60 people, but allowing me to use their front room to record this podcast in AFTER the show.

Annie Bacon is a current resident of Ann Arbor, MI, but she's lived on both side of the country before landing there. With 3 albums, 3 EPs and a single released since 2009, Annie is ready to take big leaps forward with two new albums and a book in the works as well as a musical that she cowrote with Kyle Rasche that could make its debut on stages next year if she's lucky.Hear her new single, a track from one of the forthcoming albums and two from her most recent album in this podcast recorded at Grove Studios.All songs written by Annie Bacon:When Will I LearnGallatin PikeCalifornia HeatI Wanna Die Like Lou ReedFind Annie on line here:https://www.anniebacon.me/homeFind out more about Acoustic Alternatives and how you can support me via Patreon:https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesMuch love to my podcast home, Grove Studios:https://grovestudios.space/

Michigan's Joanna (Ransdell) Sterling is in her third incarnation as a performer. Previously using her surname as well as fronting a band called Joanna and the Jaywalkers, Sterling has arrived with her strongest work to date. A new album called Queen of Wands.Working with Ypsilanti, MI's Chris DuPont on the recording and production side, this release is a collection of open and honest songs that are sure to grow her audience and reach. During the interview, you can hear how far away one of her songs has touched someone she's never met.Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI, songs (all written by Joanna Sterling) include:HonestySo AfraidWhite HorseGirl By ChoiceMore ways to find Joanna's music:https://joannasterlingmusic.bandcamp.com/More about Grove Studios:https://grovestudios.space/Join me on Patreon! I could use your support:patreon.com/AcousticAlternativeswithJohnBommarito

This episode of Acoustic Alternatives features the "distance band" Frances Luke Accord. Though when they formed they both lived in Indiana, the currently live in different states. The harmonies are as beautiful as a Simon and Garfunkel record and the songwriting of Nicholas Gunty and Brian Powers matches that beauty.Learn more about this duo and hear songs from their latest album Safe In Sound.All songs written by:Nicholas Gunty and Brian Powers"Thank You, Derrick Watson""This Morning/All The Things""In My Life"Special thanks to Chris DuPont for engineering and mixing the session.Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MIhttps://grovestudios.space/More about Frances Luke Accordhttps://www.franceslukeaccord.com/More about Acoustic Alternativeshttps://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternativesContact me for Sponsorship opportunities

Based in Ypsilanti, MI Drew De Four has been putting out original music since 2006 and playing in clubs and piano bars for a long time too. Recently Drew decided to pursue a new adventure and try his hand at producing a movie...about a group of piano bar singers. Shot in a vacant former piano bar in Pontiac, MI the film brings to life what it's like to work in a piano bar while following the stories of several characters at the bar. Unlike at most piano bars, this one features songs entirely from Drew's back catalog. Strangely, the song all feel familiar even if you don't know them.Get to know Drew and his back story and learn a bit more about the movie in this rather long form interview done in his home studio.All songs written by Drew De Four.https://www.drewdefour.com/"Marie""Be Here With Me""I'm Not Alone""Gotta Get On""Last Call"More about the movie Duelers:https://www.youtube.com/@duelersfilmThanks to Grove Studios for their supporthttps://grovestudios.space/More about Acoustic Alternatives can be found here:https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives

"Eclectic indie singer/songwriter/producer Leah Marlene has been making music since she was big enough to hold a guitar. Taking third place on last year's season of American Idol gave her career a boost, but she's been working intently on her music, singing and songwriting for as long as she can remember. "Get to know Leah and hear a couple of as-of-yet unreleased songs during this visit to Acoustic Alternatives.All songs written by Leah Marlene"Flowers""Tomorrow""Flashes"More about Leahhttps://www.leahmarlene.com/Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MIFind Grove Studios online:https://grovestudios.space/

A fixture in the Michigan music scene, Adam Labeaux has been making music for over three decades. After living in Midland, MI and San Francisco, CA (to name a couple), Adam is based these days in Ann Arbor, MI and has called on other members of the Michigan music scene to help out on his fourth solo album, "Brave Face." The new album is due out June 3rd and in its fully produced form is equal parts ‘the sounds of today' and ‘the classic sounds of the 70's & 80's pop.' You can get a preview of some of the songs in an acoustic setting on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives.Songs include "Clutch""Don't Listen""Straw Man"All songs written by Adam Labeaux.https://www.adamlabeaux.com/Recorded May 15, 2023 at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MIhttps://grovestudios.space/

Mike Ward is the Detroit based singer songwriter who differentiates himself from the other musically inclined Mike Ward's of the world by modifying his hockey nickname "psycho ward" into Mike Ward Psychosongs.Since retiring from the advertising world, he has concentrated heavily on his love of singing and songwriting. With four albums, a single and and EP in five short years, this Detroit Music Award nominee has established himself firmly in the Michigan music scene and he's coming for the rest of the Midwest. Find out more about Mike by enjoying this podcast.All songs by Mike Ward:The Currency Of ForgivenessI FollowBrokenCompact Lifehttps://www.psychosongs.com/Recorded at Grove Studios April 24, 2023https://grovestudios.space/

Sam Robbins grew up in New Hampshire, but, like many aspiring musicians, calls Nashville home these days. Influenced by the likes of James Taylor, Jackson Browne and Neil Young, Sam writes thought provoking lyrics with very skilled guitar playing. Not bad for a former drummer.You can learn more about Sam including his brief experiences with The Voice and American Idol by listening to this chat. The song that first caught my attention when I saw him in concert the first time is the one he plays first. I hope you'll stay for the entire chat.All songs written by Sam RobbinsHard To HateReverenceBigger than In BetweenSaying AmenMore about Sam:https://samrobbinsmusic.com/Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MIhttps://grovestudios.space/Sponsorships available. Contact me athttps://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito

Misty Lyn Bergeron has been a staple of the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti music scene since she released her first album, For the Dead, in 2009. She has since gone on to become an in demand photographer and even done a women-centric podcast. We discuss all of those things and more including the new album, Narrows, in this discussion. She even performs an as of yet unreleased song.All songs by Misty Lyn Bergeron"Hard To Hear""Grief is a Chorus""Smaller"https://www.mistylyn.com/Recorded at Grove Studios, Ypsilanti, MIhttps://grovestudios.space/

Another mighty fine up and coming artist based in Michigan is my guest on this episode of Acoustic Alternatives. Jackie Pappas grew up on 28 acres and played in the woods of Ortonville, MI and her tunes reflect her outdoorsy personality. There's a lovely voice to accompany her charm. I see this as the beginning of a wonderful journey for a talented artist who is gigging pretty regularly.All songs written by Jackie PappasThe Extraordinary Flight of the DandelionTaste The StarsLetoThe Fall of the Jesterhttps://www.facebook.com/jackiepappasmusic/Recorded at Grove Studioshttps://grovestudios.space/

My relationship with Stephen Kellogg's music goes back to 2005 and my first commercial radio job at a station in Ann Arbor that, at the time, was the most supportive station in the country of his band Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers. He's released record after record of high quality songwriting with great, passionate singing. You can learn a lot about Stephen though his lyrics, or his book, or his Tedx Talk, or even the feature documentary about him, "Last Man Standing." My hope was to help you learn more about him through conversation.All songs written by Stephen Kellogg. Songs include:"It Goes Fast""If Anyone Is Listening""Blue Jean"https://www.stephenkellogg.com/Recorded at Grove Studioshttps://grovestudios.space/

Steve Taylor from Lake Orion, MI is an accomplished singer songwriter who is currently up for a batch of Detroit Music Awards in the Americana and Country categories (though I debate with him about the country tag in the discussion). Dawson's Creek comes up as does his admiration for a previous guest on the program, Glen Phillips.This Berklee School of Music and Wayne State University grad is out there playing songs throughout Metro Detroit and beyond regularly and has been for a long time. He deserves your attention.All songs written by Steve Taylor:"First Warm Day Of Spring""Uncommon Places""This Old House""Without"More about Steve Taylorhttps://linktr.ee/stevetaylormusic?fbclid=IwAR2yCKg1oiDLvI-m5cJ2EgLVmYyt0UCT392IyYYm10nbLSEPgcCxH35q-nwRecorded at Grove Studioshttps://grovestudios.space/

Annie Capps has long been part of a duo with her talented husband Rod, but for her latest album, it needed to be all about the women in her life.Learn more about her newest project, How Can I Say?, and a bit of background on this internationally known singer songwriter from Chelsea, MI.Songs include:How Can I SayDirty Little SecretOnly SometimesWritten by Annie Capps.https://www.anniecapps.com/Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MIhttps://grovestudios.space/Care to be a sponsor of the program? Find me athttps://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito

Recorded on location at Jess's home in Ann Arbor on the piano she learned to play on as a child, this session will sound a bit different than the others because of how it was recorded (see the video if you want to understand). I must note, it only sounds as good as it does because of the incredible Chris DuPont (do yourself a favor and listen the other two podcasts I did with him) because he took the raw files, which didn't sound very good at all, and dressed them up and made them pretty.Jess is an incredible singer I have seen on a number of occasions as part of a Christmas variety show in Ann Arbor known as EBird and Friends. She is often the most memorable vocalist on stage.In this session we talk about her upcoming 40th Birthday party show at The Ark and she plays three originals:Family StoneStones AloneImpermanence All songs written and performed by Jess Merritt (https://www.facebook.com/theunderstorey).Thanks as always to Grove Studios for their support of my endeavors. https://grovestudios.space/

Two of my favorite people, singers and musicians combine for one session featuring two songs by both artists. Return visitors to the podcast, Chris DuPont and Kylee Phillips recorded in the home of Chris DuPont to talk about the collaborations and show sharing they've been doing lately.Songs by Chris DuPont: Setting Fires Fragile Thingswritten by Chris DuPontSongs by Kylee Phillips Somedays FloatWritten by Kylee Phillips

Julianne Ankley is a gem of the Michigan music scene who is more than ready for national attention. From the Port Huron area, Julianne is making some of the best modern country music these ears have heard. Myself not being a fan of modern country music, that says a lot! The voice, the songs, the stories, the charm. It's all there.All songs written by Julianne AnkleyThere's Still TimeThe Gospel TruthWhyMy Heart Always Years For YouRecorded at Grove Studios (https://grovestudios.space/)Julianne's music page: https://www.julianneankley.com/More about Julianne's art: https://www.julianneankleyart.com/

Rachael Davis returns to Michigan from Nashville for her second visit with John Bommarito. This time she only brought her banjo.The focus of this conversation is her participation in the event at The Ark in Ann Arbor on Jan 27th, 2023. Banjofest (https://theark.org/event/friday-night-folk-banjofest-230127/)!Songs includeSweetwater SeaAngeline the BakerThe WindFeatherbedhttps://www.rachaeldavis.com/Recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, MI 12/30/22https://grovestudios.space/

Heywood Banks - Musician - Poet - Comedian - Cult Icon - just as it says on his web site. A performing musician (under his birth name Stuart Mitchell) since the 70's. A comedian since the 80's and a cult icon since he added a toaster to his act, Heywood has been making us laugh with good, clean comedy songs for a long time.A staple on the syndicated Bob & Tom radio show and a regular on morning shows (especially in the Metro Detroit area), it is my pleasure to welcome Heywood to the Grove Studios podcast studio to talk about his newest collection of songs "New Holiday Standards." If you are worried about hearing the same Christmas songs you've heard thousands of times, there is nothing to worry about here. These aren't those songs. If you need a good laugh while learning the back story of a comedian who has been covered on American Idol (seriously) and had one of his Christmas songs recorded by a Billboard Magazine topping Christian artist (again, seriously), this is the podcast for you.All songs written by Heywood Banks (https://heywoodbanks.com/)Cash Cash CashScandinavian BabyMy Birthday SuitTurkey BirdRecorded on Dec 10, 2022 at Grove Studios (https://grovestudios.space/)

Jill Jack has won 50 Detroit Music Awards since starting her music career 30 years ago. On the eve of her 60th birthday, she has planned a special celebration of her career in music at The Ark in Ann Arbor (January 14th, 2023).Since our last visit nearly two years ago, Jill has faced a serious health issue. We talk about that and other things that Jill has planned. You'll also hear music including the song that got me choked up thinking that my friend might not have survived her health scare.All songs written by Jill Jack. (https://www.jilljack.com/)Recorded at Grove Studios, Ypsilanti, MI (https://grovestudios.space/)Nowhere BoundThe Love HotelBreatheLive Like There's No Tomorrow

Glen Phillips has had two excellent careers. One as the lead singer in one of the most successful bands of the 90's, Toad the Wet Sprocket, and one as a solo artist (who happens to have many side projects like Mutual Admiration Society, Works Progress Administration, etc.).He's written and sang some of my all time favorites and it was my pleasure to visit with Glen and talk about his new album, "There is So Much Here"All songs written by Glen Phillips (https://glenphillips.com/)The Sound of DrinkingCenter of the CircleAll I WantStone ThroatRecorded at Grove Studioshttps://grovestudios.space/

Chuck Brodsky is one of the best storytellers around. Though not a household name like Bob Dylan, he's every bit as good at embodying the characters in the songs he sings - and he often sings about real people. Probably best known for his two complete albums of baseball songs (and a third one on the way), Brodsky has released a new album in 2022 and, in my opinion, the most solid record of his lengthy career. We talk about life, music and baseball. Songs heard during this podcast from Grove Studios include: It Takes Two Wings How I Changed His Mind Cup of Coffee Them and Us https://www.chuckbrodsky.com/ https://grovestudios.space/

Bob Mervak is a Detroit area musician who has been both a sideman and a front man in his musical adventures. He has many stories to tell that include people like David Foster, Sara Bareilles, Dax Sheppard, Kristen Bell and George Clooney to name a few. That, and he plays and writes great original music. Recorded in his home studio in Southfield, MI. https://www.instagram.com/bobmervak/?hl=en

There were problems with the audio because the SD card I recorded it to failed, so what you are hearing is the "cleaned up" audio from my iPhone. It's not ideal. If this is your first of my podcasts, don't judge it on this or Rebecca's talent. I strongly encourage you to check both of us out independently of this episode. The conversation and performances were too good not to share. Enjoy. https://rebeccaloebe.com/

Singer Songwriter Ari Hest is my guest on the Acoustic Alternatives podcast. Audio and video for this special session recorded at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti debuts at 7:00 PM tonight. Ari is a grammy nominated singer/songwriter who began his career as an independent artist in 2001. He built a loyal following touring the college circuit extensively between 2000 and 2003, after which he released two albums on Columbia Records, Someone To Tell (2004) and The Break-In (2007) all the while touring both in the U.S. and abroad with artists such as Martin Sexton, Suzanne Vega, and Ani Difranco. You Tube video link: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2FpLrHEqRrxlU%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR1hAFtBA9765MXW5sLy1C22Cv1uB62lp6R0p721-dabp1k6Y0B9Ps-00i8&h=AT0ji0VNBNHi1gRiePdTDPNAPHG8FhC_lTixKd2M6KD32UeUt2uFhH_gmbiocg218aZ_UW72Hsxs4vC46SBbwSopLB_uSVeGOZPBoUfbky4D3-fkkCz9neYE-BLogHr9yQ&__tn__=q&c[0]=AT0OrgWB9dhjdhfJ7QwGxnQPXp7DzlOhc4zKMEbCrfZs8JyFRnBwVC-EBFETYZmT245OdBh54ClhV_OEqtcTLXpcTkRmhlL9QtAoSHpdgaT7Ou4wVU_kXLTmFZ9ijj8Pq03n8L0SeDubvCFT8sj9MGjk (https://youtu.be/pLrHEqRrxlU) Links to many of the audio only sources where you can listen: https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/johnbommarito/acoustic-alternatives?fbclid=IwAR0icD6wdWSjQocChO8Sik4w_gR1b8fHQX6L1IaoD8GB9W_7v1aJRyTgsn0 (https://johnmbommarito.wixsite.com/.../acoustic-alternatives)  Ari Hest joins John Bommarito on Acoustic Alternatives to talk music, baseball and play some songs including: I Remember When Doin' The Math Strangers Again Private Party All songs written by Ari Hest. https://www.arihest.com/

Guitarist Willy Porter (https://willyporter.com/?fbclid=IwAR2CmfE2LtrtqSpxPo385cqnSjOJvdNS1vfN7BHR0oNgGcrEo4SVHNYvClU (https://willyporter.com/)) is joined in the Grove Studios by Dave Adler (https://www.daveadler.com/?fbclid=IwAR0a2ySch3quNPhp5DGD8mefvk5OPrNhyGQe7WbxOZDaAH8h-X9dQokVj70 (https://www.daveadler.com/)) and Carmen Nickerson (http://carmennickerson.com/?fbclid=IwAR3GIG6bBOrng3YwtZGObcy6vHMkdjBhYZnztbX5oyGewfhCgVGngI0ttFA (http://carmennickerson.com/)) for a session with John Bommarito. Willy plays songs from his forthcoming, as of yet, untitled album, chats about his lengthy career and highlights his band during the discussion.

Musical duo The Rough & Tumble sing songs, share stories and laugh with John Bommarito on Acoustic Alternatives