For Songs

If nothing else, music is healing. Look no further than my guest on this episode—Dan Murphy, former lead guitarist from the 80s-90s cowpunk band Soul Asylum and the alt.country super group Golden Smog. The Minneapolis-based Murphy, who thought he had quit the music biz for good roughly 13 years ago, is in the midst of an unexpected musical renaissance. In this episode, Dan and I discuss his band the Scarlet Goodbye's (https://thescarletgoodbye.com/) second album El Camino Adios. We talk about his partnership with band co-founder Jeff Arundel, a few tunes from the record, and how he has rediscovered his love of being in a group again. Go grab a beer or two and dig into this one!

It's a For Songs first! Join me in the studio for this fabulous conversation with Kevin and Jarrett from the rock/pop/indie rock trio Franklin Gotham (https://franklingotham.bandcamp.com/). This interview was recorded at Jarrett's Mixtape Studios (https://mynewmixtape.com/) in Alexandria, Va. We talk about the band's latest EP Good Times, Bad Times, and three brilliant songs: the rock-pop gem Caroline, their brilliant cover of Life in a Northern Town, and then, well, you just gotta listen to the whole interview to see what Star Words is about. Trust me, it's worth it. So sit back, grab a beer, and enjoy!

Prepare to be transported. Destination? Who knows, somewhere peaceful no doubt. Just get ready and enjoy the ride. My guest for this episode is making her fifth appearance on the show—Yasmin Williams (www.yasminwilliamsmusic.com), one of the most innovative and talented musicians I've ever heard. Yasmin is here to discuss her latest album Acadia, released in October 2024. Coming on the heels of her breakthrough 2021 release Urban Driftwood, Acadia establishes Yasmin as a true force in modern music. In this episode, we discuss the making of the new record—her first on a major label—and how she assembled an all-star cast of guest artists. We also talk about how her life has changed since Urban Driftwood and recording with the support of a major label. Mostly, though, we talk about the songs. The breathtaking, dreamy, evocative songs that will transport you to a better place. So sit back and welcome Yasmin Williams back to the show.

If you are looking for an album so definitive of our times—an album that exquisitely captures the chaos, the churn, the despair, and ultimately the hope of our world—look no further: LA-based Sons of Silver' (https://sonsofsilver.com/)s newest release Runaway Emotions is absolutely the one. Lead singer/songwriter Peter Argyropoulos has always been a bit of a soothsayer, as the band's first two EPs so clearly demonstrated. On Runaway Emotions, however, he takes it to a new level. In this episode, Peter joins me again to detail Runaway Emotions, his hopes and fears for the band and world, and so much more. We focus on four songs in particular—Running Out of Words, Nobody Minds, Hold Tight, and Friends. The album is rough, edgy, abrasive, yet tender. We dish on the state of the world, the music industry, and, of all things, wine. Check out this interview, then check them out on tour! Buckle up, ‘cause this one's a doozy!

Happy Halloween! Here's a special edition of For Songs Singles! This time we bring back old friend Lisset Diaz, singer/songwriter for the Havana-by-Nashville-based Sweet Lizzy Project (https://www.sweetlizzyproject.com/), probably one of the hardest rocking and hardest working bands around. Lisset joins me to talk about the band's latest single, Tales of Never-Ending Rage and a Beautiful Disaster, released just in time for Halloween. The song is incredible—a tour-de-force recalling Queen, the Beatles, Living Colour, Faith No More, Guns N' Rose, and so much more. The only thing better than the music is the backstory behind the song, so buckle up, put on your costume and welcome Lisset back to the show!

Buckle up everyone—it's milestone time! This episode of For Songs is the nice, big, round number of 70! That's right, 7-0! And helping me celebrate is the most popular guest I've had—Minneapolis singer/songwriter/guitarist Dan Murphy. A co-founding member of one of Minnesota's biggest rock band Soul Asylum, Dan is making his third appearance on the show. In this episode of For Songs Singles, Dan discusses the first single from his new band's forthcoming album. The song is Speedway, the band is the Scarlet Goodbye, and the album is El Camino Adios, set for release in January. The band's second album, El Camino Adios marks a departure of sorts for Dan and his songwriting partner Jeff Arundel. As exemplified by the undeniably catchy Speedway, El Camino Adios is a character/story driven album, inspired by everyday life in rural America. Dan talks how he and Jeff approached the album and made a conscious effort to evoke stories and write outside the first person. Dan also details how a few years of playing live together brought a greater cohesion to the songs. So sit back, crack a beer, and enjoy Dan's third appearance on the show!

Sometimes the simplest words say the most. For proof, look no further than my next guest, Richmond, Va.-based singer/songwriter Mighty Joshua (www.mightyjoshua.com). Mighty Joshua is one of the hottest, sought after reggae acts along the East Coast, and his new album Dreaducation demonstrates why. In this episode, Mighty Joshua talks “Beware,” the first single from the new record. The song is a musical tour de force, with a driving bass line and sharp horn section anchored by Joshua's percussion and soulful voice. Like the word itself, “Beware” is more than meets the eye—you'll hear something new every time you listen. Mighty Joshua talks about how the song came to be, his significant growth as a singer and writer, and how being mindful—being aware—is a necessity in life. So please join me in welcoming the Mighty Joshua back to For Songs.

Every now and again I pinch myself when doing this show. It's been four years and I've had some amazing guests. Yet this one—with all due respect to everyone who's been on—this one has been more than 30 years in the making. Because my guest is Ian Hunter, hands down my favorite singer-songwriter of ‘em all. Ian is best known for his time fronting the early to mid-70s band English band Mott the Hoople. Mott had a major hit in 1972 with All the Young Dudes—look it up on Spotify, trust me you've heard it. From there Ian's solo career has dotted nearly six decades, and he's still going strong. Ian joined me to discuss his latest album Defiance Part II: Fiction. The album follows Defiance Part I, both of which were recorded near the end of the pandemic. The songs are fantastic, but check out the roster of musicians who joined him: Ringo Starr, Brian May, Lucinda Williams, Jeff Tweedy, the late Taylor Hawkins, and so many more. We talk about the album, the pandemic, the staying power of music, and, well, the theme of both Defiance records—agism and not going quietly into the night. What else could you want? Dive into this interview with Ian Hunter.

Some folks are just a natural for this show. Nashville-based veteran singer/songwriter Tim Easton (https://www.timeaston.com/) certainly fits the bill. A renowned tunesmith, Easton has lived a quintessential troubadour life—busking in Europe and living in L.A., New York, and many places in between. Now calling Nashville home, Tim is back with a new album Find Your Way. Tim's solo work dates back to the late 90s, back when the major labels bet big that so-called alt.country or Americana would be the next thing. In this episode of For Songs Singles, Tim talks about how those big bets never paid off. We cover quite a bit here, but mostly we discuss the first single from the album, the ethereal title track Find Your Way. The song deals with a life-changing near-miss traffic incident, caused by Tim being a bit under the influence. Tim opens up about how the incident caused him to reevaluate his lifestyle. We also discuss his career and influences, and long-time listeners of this show will appreciate Tim's love of both the Clash and Johnny Cash, the Louvin Brothers and Elvis Costello. So sit back and enjoy as Tim Easton joins me for For Songs.

If there's one lesson songwriters learn over and over again, it's that sometimes you just gotta let go. Sometimes you just gotta let the song work its way out on its own schedule. Just let it go. That's the trick my next guest leaned on for his band's latest single. Peter Argyropolous, lead singer and songwriter for LA-based rockers Sons of Silver, joins me to discuss Tell Me This, a classic, 70s-esque punk rocker released in early 2024. In addition to being a great friend of the show, Peter is also a fantastic interview. Coming off the heels of Sons of Silver's blistering 2022 EP Ordinary Sex Appeal, Peter opens up about the difficulties he had in finishing the song, especially its off-kilter lyrics. Peter also goes into detail about the band's struggles in dealing with new personnel and refurbishing their sound. We cover a bit of everything here—songwriting, guitar tech, and gearing up (hopefully) for a year of touring. So dig in and welcome one of my favorite recurring guests Peter Argyropolous back to For Songs.

If there's been one constant chronicled on this podcast, it's that no one knows the future of the music industry. Hell, no one even knows what the next few days are going to be like in the industry. Certainly my next guest, Seattle-based singer/songwriter Ian Jones, is doing all he can to crack the code. Ian is making his third appearance on this show, this time to discuss his latest single, I Can't Seem to Drink Her Off My Mind (https://open.spotify.com/album/3zkzAlf7arCVfra5MqU5h3?si=_-rhySY6ROm3fdLB9KeIsg). The song is a throwback to Merle Haggard, David Allen Coe, Buck Owens—a true drown-in-your-beer country tune that sounds like it was recorded in Bakersfield 50 or 60 years ago. Interesting, Ian is taking a kitchen-sink approach to marketing the song, as the album it will eventually be on is still being record. Not only that, he released a live version of the song before anyone's heard the studio version. Will it work? Who knows! And that's the point—there's no blueprint, so why the hell not? It's a fantastic, booze soaked lament that will keep your toes tapping and eyes watering. So sit back and listen in as Ian gives a frank assessment of the industry and how the song came together.

Lest anyone doubt the power of music, I give you the life of Barry Lynch. I met Barry while on vacation in May 2012 at a small pub in the small town of Moy, Northern Ireland, after he led a brilliant Irish session in which he sang and played just about every stringed instrument known to man. I finally brought him onto this show in July 2022 (https://forsongs.fireside.fm/49)to discuss an album he'd just produced by a band called the Armagh Rhymers. Sadly, Barry passed away suddenly in Spring 2023. In this episode, Barry's daughter Hannah Lynch joins me to discuss her Dad's life and musical journey. Barry's belief that music can connect people and change the world took him all over the globe. As a teacher in a divided area of Northern Ireland, Barry used music to bring opposing sides together, an effort that took him to the White House and the United Nations as the Belfast Peace Accords were being negotiated. We discuss a 2013 album he recorded with family (including Hannah and her sister Jane) and lifelong friends John Devlin and others under the nom de plume of The Monday Men (https://www.facebook.com/TheMondayMen/). Join me in learning from Hannah about Barry's commitment to music, family, peace, and how music can literally change the world.

When we last caught up with Yasmin Williams (https://www.yasminwilliamsmusic.com/), her life was just about to change. It was February 2021, the pandemic was slowly but surely starting to ease, and the DC-based acoustic guitar maestro released her groundbreaking album Urban Driftwood. Full of spellbinding, mesmerizing, uplifting acoustic-guitar driven instrumentals, Urban Driftwood took Yasmin from her parent's house to all around the globe, playing festivals, selling out clubs, and doing gigs with some of her heroes. It's been a whirlwind—and two-plus years later, Yasmin is back. In this episode of For Songs Singles, we talk about Yasmin's latest breathtaking tune Dawning. As hypnotic as anything she's written, Dawning is a revelation. It signals a re-awakening of life after a catastrophic pandemic, new love, hope, and, well, pretty much whatever you want. Yasmin had help for this one, including Grammy winning singer/songwriter Aoife O'Donovan. Yasmin gushes over Aoife's magical, soaring vocals and reveals just how much her life is different from just two years ago. So sit back, listen and let the amazing Yasmin Williams take you away.

Thirty years ago, I popped in If I Should Fall From Grace with God by the London-Irish punk band the Pogues, and my life changed forever. I was 17, socially awkward, and a bit of a loner, but discovering the Pogues opened a whole world for me. Finding their brand of traditional Irish music blended with punk rock was like discovering a new home—comfortable yet dangerous, familiar yet mysterious. So it is such a tremendous honor to welcome Pogues founding member and accordion player James Fearnley to For Songs. James, hailing from outside Manchester, England, joined the band at the beginning, enlisted because if he could play the piano, surely he could play the accordion. I spoke with James via Zoom from his L.A. home. We tackle a few obligatory Pogues questions but spend most of our time discussing James' latest venture, The Walker Roaders (https://walkerroaders.com/). The Walker Roaders, which released their first record in August 2019, are a Celtic punk supergroup, featuring not only James from the Pogues, but Ted Hutt from Flogging Molly and Marc Orrell from the Dropkick Murphys. We talk about the band's songwriting prowess, lessons James has picked up from being around amazing artists like Shane MacGowan, Jem Finer, Joe Strummer, among others. Yeah, you're gonna wanna listen to this one. So sit back, grab a pint (or two) and welcome James Fearnley to For Songs.

If you've ever felt like there's just not enough time in the day, that the world is crashing down and you're feeling more pressure than you can handle, have I got the song for you. In this episode of For Songs Singles, I welcome back Lisset Diaz of the Havana-by-way-of-Nashville-based Sweet Lizzy Project (www.sweetlizzyproject.com). Lisset discusses the band's dynamite new single, Somebody Wake Me When It's Over. The song is a musical tour-de-force, a blistering rock opera that jumps out of your speakers right into your heart. Lyrically, the song addresses anxiety and the fear that there's just not enough time to accomplish your dreams. This is a true rock masterpiece and if there's any justice in the world, the band's guitarist and producer Miguel Comas will be the most sought after producer in the country after this single. So sit band and enjoy as Lisset Diaz returns to For Songs.

Sometimes life comes full circle. In this episode of For Songs, I welcome back Louisiana-based singer/songwriter Louis Michot of the traditional Cajun band the Lost Bayou Ramblers. Louis first appeared on the show in Fall 2020, at the height of the pandemic. He didn't know it at the time but he was in the midst of writing and recording his first solo album. Three years later, Louis has just released Reve du Troubadour, which is Cajun French for Troubadour's Dream (https://www.louismichot.com/). In this episode, Louis discusses how those eerie first few months of the pandemic resulted in creative output that even surprised him. Although the album is entirely sung in Cajun French, the songs span a much wider range. You'll hear Lee “Scratch” Perry. You'll hear the Pogues, you'll hear classical music. You'll hear…well, you get the point. In addition the music, you're also going to learn something. Louis is as much of a historian as he is a musician, and some of his songs will make you uncomfortable. Learning about the past can be difficult, but that's the point. So sit back and listen as Louis takes us through Reve du Troubadour (https://louismichot.bandcamp.com/album/r-ve-du-troubadour).

The sun is out, life is returning to normal and our favorite bands are back on tour. Not even two years ago this seemed like an impossible dream, as I've chronicled on this show. But here we are, in Summer 2023, and things seem, well, pretty good. A new day is dawning. Just ask acclaimed multi-instrumentalist/singer-songwriter Dom Flemons (www.theamericansongster.com), who released his brilliant solo record Traveling Wildfire this past March. Dom joins me for a third time to discuss his new record, and how it signals a new beginning for him and the rest of us. Dom talks about how writing and recording this album was a cathartic experience, to be in the studio again with musicians and producers, and to get back on the road. Traveling Wildfire tracks dozens of emotions from the last few years, from the pain of loss to the joy of normalcy. We also talk about how his interactions with folks like Bob Dylan and James Fearnley of the Pogues influenced a few tracks on the album in particular. As it always is when talking to Dom, you will learn something along the way. So sit back and let Dr. Dom Flemons take you away…

Music, not unlike life, is about the journey rather than the destination. And perhaps no artist I've interviewed knows that better than Seattle-based singer/songwriter Ian Jones (https://www.ianjonesmusic.com/). A true song craftsman, Ian knows that getting your big break in the music industry is about luck and being in the right place at the right time. But more than anything, you need killer songs. And while Ian hasn't quite struck his lucky break, it's not for a shortage of great tunes. Ian is influenced by the best—Dylan, the Beatles, Jim Messina, you name it. His music would fit at home on Outlaw Country, though he has a soulful voice that recalls John Denver as much as it does Chris Stapleton, or whomever is leading the so-called “Americana” charts. Ian and I chatted about his latest release Results Not Typical. We talk about four songs—Rollin', Someday, Without You I'm Lost, and Goodbyes are the Hardest Words. We discuss the path he's chosen, his commitment to break into the business, and the inspirations for these brilliant songs. This is an emotional interview, as we get into some pretty raw memories at times. So sit back, grab a beer, and welcome Ian Jones back to For Songs.

The best thing about music is no matter how old you are, no matter how long you've been listening and loving music, you can still hear something that will stop you in your tracks. Which is what happened to me a few months ago when London-based singer/songwriter Emma Noble's latest single Break Down the Walls jumped out of my Spotify feed. It was an old-school sound with a fresh twist. Or maybe it was a fresh, new vibe with an old-school feel. Whatever it was, I was hooked. Break Down the Walls sounds like it could've been recorded yesterday, or 40 years ago on Motown. Emma is a key player in London's thriving soul scene. Her music draws influences from ‘50s-‘60s soul, ‘70s disco, and ‘80s new wave. But she brings a fresh, crisp modern vocal and melodic perspective. In this episode of For Songs Singles, Emma discusses her musical journey, how her DJ-ing business led to developing relationships with producers and songwriters, and how this genre-bending gem of a pop tune came together. Dig in! And I take no responsibility if you are humming this song for days…

Join me as former Soul Asylum guitarist Dan Murphy makes his long-awaited return not only to this show but to the music industry as a whole! In this episode, Dan talks about his new band the Scarlet Goodbye (https://thescarletgoodbye.com/) and its brand-spanking new debut album Hope's Eternal. The band is a duo, with Dan being joined by fellow Minneapolis singer/songwriter Jeff Arundel. Dan left Soul Asylum and the music biz about 10 years ago, reappearing every now and again for a one-off Golden Smog show. Dan recounts what led him back to music, how much the industry has changed over the last decade, and how he and Jeff became fast friends during the pandemic to write and record this album. We discuss four songs—Angel Dust, Panic & Blame, Julieann, and Celebrated Summer. Dan talks about how Husker Du—and Bob Mould in particular—influenced and mentored him during Soul Asylum's early years. We cover a ton of ground in this episode, so sit back, grab a beer, and listen in!

Remember last fall? When indie-rock legend Paleface and his partner/drummer Monica “Mo” Samalot came onto the show to discuss their crowdfunding campaign for their new album? Well you should! And guess what? The campaign was a success and the new album is out! Beyond the Bells was released in mid-February, and man is it fantastic. Drawing inspiration from his entire career, which began in the late 80s and early 90s in New York, Beyond the Bells is a masterclass in production and songwriting. Paleface cut his teeth at open mic nights up and down New York, bonding with folks like Daniel Johnston, Beck, and others. We discuss four songs from the new record—Most of My Worries Never Happen, Fight Song, Selfish Wayz, and The More Things Change, the More They Stay the Same. Dig in as we talk about the new album, his influences, and so much more. And then go buy the album here: https://www.palefaceonline.com/!

From New Orleans to “Fakersfield,” Mark Bingham has seen it all. The sought-after producer, songwriter, guitarist, arranger, etc., has literally rubbed elbows with music royalty. Bands like REM, artists like Dr. John, Marianne Faithfull have all called on Mark to produce, arrange, you name it. All the while, Mark wrote his own music and now, he is at the beginning of an ambitious career retrospective project to release the 22 albums he's written over the last 50-plus years. When we spoke in late November from his New Orleans home, Mark had just released the first two records from this project—Goo Seneck and Mushroom Crowd. Each album couldn't be more different; Goo Seneck draws inspiration from country rock legends like Buck Owens and Gram Parsons, while Mushroom Crowd is something else entirely. He's released a few more records since our interview, and you find out more about the project here: https://markbingham.bandcamp.com/. We talk about his approach to songwriting, musical history, and so much more. Dig in here!

If you love music, if music changed your life, if music made you feel things you've never felt before, then this is the interview for you. Joining me once again is Lisset Diaz of the Cuban-by-way-of-Nashville-based Sweet Lizzy Project. We discuss the band's newest and long-awaited album Pirate Radio/Radio Pirata. Simply stated, this is album for the ages. Pirate Radio is a concept album that traces the life and consequences of a fictional character in Cuba who goes to great lengths to listen to rock and roll music. In doing so, this character becomes almost an accidental prophet of sorts and at the end faces a life-or-death decision. While loosely based on their own story, Pirate Radio is, sadly, the story of all too many Cubans. We talk about four songs from the record—Pirate Radio, Black Water, Slip Away, and Shake the Walls. Like the album itself, this is an as emotional, powerful interview. Lisset opens up about the pressures and stresses she felt in writing and recording Pirate Radio, along with the consequences she and her band may face for simply sharing their beliefs. My only hope is that this interview does justice to their cause, so please sit back, buckle up, and welcome Lisset Diaz back to For Songs.

There's a moment in singer/songwriter Nora O'Connor's new album My Heart when you realize just how special her talent is. By admission, the Chicago-based musician is more comfortable in the background, singing backup and playing various instruments with such Americana luminaries like Neko Case, the Decembrists, Robbie Fulks, among others. But for the first time in 18(!) years, Nora is back with a solo album—her third—called My Heart, released in early October. And it's about midway through the fourth song on the album “Cambridge Cold” when you understand why My Heart is such an impeccable listen, and is exactly the kind of music the world needs. Indeed, Nora's songs make you feel at home, no matter where you are. With a soothing voice reminiscent of Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, and Stevie Nicks, Nora has been an in-demand harmony vocalist for two decades, and when she sings you feel like everything is going to be okay. In this episode of For Songs, Nora provides a refreshing take on her music, her career, and how a decade-plus of supporting Neko Case and others made her want to dip back into her own musical well. We discuss about four songs from the album—Sore, Cambridge Cold, the album's one cover It's Alright Now, and Fare Thee Well. Nora walks us through how these songs came to be and how performing outdoor shows during the COVID lockdowns unlocked her creative juices. So sit back and listen in as Nora O'Connor joins me for this episode of For Songs!

You think you've been productive during COVID? Maybe so, but did you write, record, and release three (that's right, THREE!!!) albums in two-plus years? No? Well, my next guest did. In fact, folk singer John McCutcheon's latest album Leap, released in September 2022, is not only his third album since 2020, but his 43rd of his career! John's love of folk music began as a young teenager watching the 1963 March on Washington; after seeing Bob Dylan, Odetta, Joan Baez, and Peter, Paul, and Mary, he was hooked. He's been writing and recording folk music since the mid-1970s, and hasn't looked back. In this episode, we talk about four songs from Leap—The Ride, The Troubles, Sorryland, and Work. We take a deep-dive into his prolific songwriting process, how the material keeps flowing, and how he hopes to stay “useful” as long as possible. Listen in!

As you've no doubt heard in listening to this podcast, the music industry is not for the faint of heart. You need nerves of steel, patience, determination, and, at times, a devil-may-care attitude. You also need support, and lots of it, if you hope to make just enough to get by. In this special episode of For Songs, we are joined again by indie-rock legend Paleface and his drummer/partner Monica “Mo” Samalot. Paleface has seen it all, a veteran of the industry since the early 90s. His songwriting chops sharpened by folks like Daniel Johnston and others, PF has rubbed elbows with some of the biggest names in the business, people like Beck and the Avett Brothers. In this episode, PF and Mo discuss the crowdfunding campaign currently underway to support their next release, which is expected to come out in early 2023. We talk about what goes into writing, recording, producing, and releasing an entirely independent record. We discuss how you can play a key role in getting their new album out on the streets by supporting their efforts. And talk about the joy of playing live again after more than a year of being off the road. To make a contribution to their crowdfunding campaign, check out their website here: www.palefaceonline.com.

For me, this episode is 11 years in the making. For my guest Barry Lynch and his group the Armagh Rhymers? We're talking 30 years. The Armagh Rhymers (https://armaghrhymers.com/), a traditional Irish mummers band from Northern Ireland, released their first album in 1992. So now 30 years later, “Vol. 2” is on the streets and, well, you need to take a seat, grab a pint or two, and listen in. Mumming, for those who don't know, is an ancient tradition, dating back in Ireland to the pagan, pre-Catholic days. It consists of musicians wearing straw masks, becoming characters, and performing a play based on fables and other rituals dating back thousands of years. They go door-to-door, singing and playing for whomever let them in. So yeah, this one goes back a bit. Barry helped produce and mix the album, as well as playing all kinds of stringed instruments and adding his distinctive vocals. I met Barry more than 11 years ago on a trip to Northern Ireland and we stayed in touch over the years. This is the first time we've talked since we met at a pub in the small town called Moy, maybe 45 minutes west of Belfast. Barry is an accomplished musician, having played all over the world and even at the White House in the late 90s, promoting the peace process that ended decades of sectarian strife in Northern Ireland. While this is an ancient artform, the Armagh Rhymers Vol. 2 is at its core about peace; it's about coming together through music. So go grab that pint (or two) and welcome Barry Lynch to For Songs.

Peter Argyropoulos has a way with words. The lead singer/songwriter of the LA-based hard-rock band Sons of Silver has his finger on the pulse on what's happening across the country and, indeed, the world. On his band's debut EP Doomsday Noises, he presaged the pandemic, the social unrest, and the decaying fabric of society that has been our existence the last two years. Now, a year and half later, the band is back with a blistering follow-up EP called Ordinary Sex Appeal. In this five-song set, Peter and the band capture the angst, divisions, and frustrations that seem to be a part of our everyday lives. But there's also a little hope included, if you listen closely. Peter joins me for the third time to discuss the new EP, when/how it was recorded, the magic of drummer Dave Kruzen's playing, and much much more. As much as this is a commentary on society, this interview is also a clear love letter to the power of music. So sit back, get on your thinking caps, and welcome Peter Argyropoulos back to For Songs.

There's something about simplicity and subtlety that sets the best songwriters apart. The simplicity in using the exact, perfect word—and only that word—to describe a feeling in a way that everyone can relate. And the subtlety of taking the listener on an emotional journey with a song that only lasts three minutes. Few artists have attained a mastery of both quite like my next guest, singer/songwriter Ben Vaughn. An exceptionally talented musician, Ben is a persistent writer; indeed, he writes almost every day. The tough part is getting it all down before it goes away. His music may remind you a bit of They Might Be Giants, a little Tom Waits mixed in with some Lou Reed. Ben's been at it since the early 80s and even scored music for television shows and movies. He's funny, witty, subtle, and unfailingly polite. We spoke from his California home about his newest album The World of Ben Vaughn, released in May 2022. Listen in as he discusses how he approaches his craft, his inspirations, and four songs from new album—Wayne Fontana Was Wrong, Blind Alley, Asking for a Friend, and New Jersey Rock and Roll. Dig in and welcome Ben Vaughn to For Songs.

Funny how the world works, at least in the world of music. This is the story of Kira Annelise and her husband Willie Heath Neal, who together make up the country duo The Waymores (https://www.thewaymores.com/). When they met, Willie was a seasoned songwriter about to hang it up. He was still singing in bands when Kira saw him performing, and her world changed. A talented singer, Kira had yet to pick up a guitar or even listen to real country music—real being Hank Sr., Johnny Cash, John Prine, etc. After seeing Willie, Kira started playing guitar and writing music. It wasn't too much longer that they started playing together, and, predictably, they became an official couple. Fourteen years later, Kira and Willie are still at it, and their newest album The Stone Sessions is proof positive of their magic. In this episode of For Songs, Willie and Kira talk about their past, their future, and, most importantly, their compelling present. We talk about four songs in particular from The Stone Sessions—Even When, Bat Shit Crazy, Roll That Chain, and I Don't Like the Liquor. Their lush harmonies will send chills down your spine as they recall June and Johnny, while their self-depreciating humor will leave you in stitches. Buckle up, grab a drink, and welcome Kira and Willie to For Songs.

It's been a little more than since my next guest first joined me on For Songs. Michael Patrick F. Smith and I go way back. Way way back. To elementary school, middle school, high school, and even church. Michael returns to the show for the first time since January 2021, a few weeks before his book The Good Hand was published. The Good Hand (https://www.thegoodhand.org/) is a blistering read, telling the tale of his journey to North Dakota at the height of the shale-gas revolution that turned parts of the state into a latter-day gold rush. With the paperback version having just been released, Michael joined me to discuss a new song called Restless Companion. Restless Companion was one of a few new songs accompanying the audiobook of The Good Hand. It is a breezy tune that would fit right at home on Uncle Tupelo's Anodyne, or Son Volt's Trace. The song itself is an ode to The Good Hand and all the literal blood, sweat, and tears that went into it. So sit down, grab a beer, and welcome back Michael Patrick F. Smith to For Songs.

It's been a rough two years, to say the least. Music is one of the few things keeping us together, and for some of us, The Clash have been doing the heavy lifting. In this unique episode, Tony from the Pug joins me for an enthralling conversation about music, the Clash, and so much more. The general theme of this conversation is as follows: What Big Audio Dynamite/Joe Strummer solo songs would've been great Clash songs? We tried to put in some ground rules, but those quickly went out the door. Aside from the Clash we talk about Poguetry, go-go music, cow punk, ska, and you name it. So rather than sum it up, it's better if you just listen in. And join us online for an ongoing conversation! What songs would you pick? Ping us on Twitter--@thepugdc & @forsongs2!

Question for you: If you had the chance to spend an hour in the car with one of your musical heroes—you are driving—what music would you play? Believe it or not, this is a difficult, stressful decision. And my next guest, northwest London-based Emily Capell (https://www.emilycapell.co.uk/), faced this very dilemma. Emily, who literally grew up on the Clash and its various offshoots, is an old soul. Her music is inspired by, well, the Clash, Big Audio Dynamite, but it goes beyond that. You'll hear some Sinatra, you'll hear some ‘60s doowop, you'll hear a lot of ska, Blondie, you name it. In this exhilarating interview, Emily and I talk about two songs from her 2019 debut album Combat Frock—Bonanza and Ipso Calypso—and then we talk about two newer songs, 2020's Flamingo, recorded with the London-based Dreadzone (https://www.dreadzone.com/), and a cover of Big Audio Dynamite's E=MC2, recorded with the song's co-writer, legendary punk-rock DJ and studio innovator Don Letts. We discuss what it was like to record with Letts, one of her heroes, and the troubles and trials of being a musician in a pandemic. Mostly, though, we talk about the music. Emily is one of the freshest talents recording today, so go grab your beer, sit down, and welcome Emily Capell to For Songs.

It is a cliché that blood is thicker than water, but its also true. And my next guests are living proof. Bonnie and Eleanor Whitmore of the Whitmore Sisters have just released their first album as a duo. Ghost Stories is an emotional powerhouse. And it is full of inspiration. Eleanor and Bonnie have been in and around the Americana genre for pretty much their whole lives. Eleanor and her husband Chris Masterson make up folk rock duo The Mastersons, and they also play in Steve Earle's backing band The Dukes. Bonnie, meanwhile, has released a number albums over the years and has played with a who's who—James McMurtry, Bruce Robison, Kelly Willis, on and on and on. Despite their roots, Ghost Stories is their first album together, and let's hope there's more to come. We talk about four songs —Hurtin' for a Letdown, Ghost Stories, Greek Tragedy, and The Ballad of Sissy and Porter. We talk about death, drugs, influences, and, of course, songwriting. We also talk about life—celebrating and appreciating the simple act of being alive. This interview gets pretty heavy at times, so be ready. It is my high honor to welcome Eleanor and Bonnie Whitmore to For Songs.

So if there's one theme in most all these interviews I've conducted the last nearly two years, it's that the music biz is a tough one, even in the best of times. When you think about it, it's almost impossible to make money—spotify, pandora, and the Internet have seen to that. And my next guest, Seattle-based singer/songwriter Ian Jones, (www.ianjonesmusic.com) knows this better than most. Back in the 90s and early 2000s, Ian left his home to give music a go in California, moving to Santa Barbara. While the weather may have been better, the industry changed so dramatically from when he first started that after a good many years, it was time to head back home. He chronicles portions of this journey on his new EP The Evergreens, released in October 2021. We discuss four songs from the EP—Evergreens, Liars Beggars Criminals and Thieves, Promised Land, and Last Call. We also talk about his inspirations, how he got into writing in the first place, and his hopeful plans for 2022. Ian Jones is serious about his work and his craft, and it comes through in his professionalism and songs. So please join me in welcoming Ian Jones to For Songs.

Here we go—nearing Year Three of this pandemic. Not to mention the coldest days of the year, hazardous weather, you name it. Days like these, you gotta dig deep to keep going. If you are struggling to trudge ahead as the news seemingly gets worse every day, have I got a song for you. Joining me for this first episode of 2022 is my old friend Kevin Adkins of Franklin Gotham. In this episode, Kevin and I talk about Franklin Gotham's latest single Keeping On, a tune for our time. It is no doubt one of the catchiest songs you'll hear all year, and it's also a perfect way to start 2022. Kevin and his bandmates—guitarist/producer Jarett Nicolay and drummer Christopher Speich—have crafted a near-perfect pop song: catchy chords, a hummable chorus, and impeccable production. Each time you listen, you'll hear something new. Kevin and I talk about how the song came to be, how they recorded it across two states, and how their writing process works. If you need a bit of a pep talk heading into the year, dig into this!

It is Christmas time, and while this isn't a Christmas episode per se, it is the gift that keeps on giving. If you've ever heard Nicole Atkins sing, you know there's something eerie, calm, haunting yet beautiful about her voice. There's a sense of mystery, a compelling sound that keeps you coming back for more. Perhaps this has something to do with where she's from, a small town not far from the Jersey beaches, maybe 40 minutes south of New York City. If you've ever been to the Jersey shore, you know there's something in the water. Something that lures you to the insanity of the boardwalk during the summer, but you also know there's something more appealing about being there in the dead of winter, when no one else is around. You've got it to yourself. Listening to Nicole Atkins brings back those feelings—the beautiful calm of being somewhere on your own, almost all alone. In this episode of For Songs, Nicole joins me from her home in Nashville, which was filled to the brim with her newest album Memphis Ice. Recorded in Memphis in one day, Memphis Ice is Nicole's Judy Garland moment. She stripped down songs from her slick, enchanting 2020 release Italian Ice and recreates them here, and the results are breathtaking. We talk about four songs—Promised Land, Domino, Mind Eraser, and Captain. Nicole discusses her songwriting process, how she was able to do more with less, and how her hometown still seeps into her music. Please welcome Nicole Atkins to For Songs.

The spark of freedom can be seen anywhere if you look for it. In this episode of For Songs-Singles, we bring back Lisset Diaz of the Sweet Lizzy Project (www.sweetlizzyproject.com) to discuss her band's latest single, Dreaming of a Revolution/Otra Revolucion. The song is inspired by the protesters in Cuba, who are putting their lives on the line to protest against the existing regime. The song is the first from their forthcoming album Pirate Radio/Radio Pirata. Every song on the album was recorded in English and Spanish. In this episode, we talk about each version of the song, along with the special editions featuring legendary Cuban singers Carlos Varela (https://twitter.com/noeselfin) and Raul Malo (www.themavericks.com). Lisset details the emotional ride that led to this song and the difficulties in getting the perfect translation from English to Spanish. She also talks about how she drew inspiration from learning that a childhood friend was among the many protestors putting their lives on the line. Freedom is not to be taken for granted, so it is a great honor to welcome Lisset Diaz of the Sweet Lizzy Project back to For Songs.

Never doubt it—music can change lives. My next guest is living proof. Renowned reggae singer The Mighty Joshua (http://mightyjoshua.com/) certainly had no intentions of singing and playing in front of thousands. In fact he started his musical career in Richmond, Va., as a percussionist in a few reggae bands, content playing a supporting role to others. But at the heavy urging of well-traveled reggae keyboardist Chris ‘Peanut' Whitley, Joshua embraced his calling and truly became Mighty. Suddenly Joshua was opening for legendary reggae acts in Virginia and elsewhere, and now he's become a staple of the East Coast reggae scene. In this episode of For Songs, The Mighty Joshua talks about his journey, how he went from a shy percussionist to an energetic front man capable of moving mountains. We talk about four songs, including his most recent single You Snooze You Lose, which appeared on a compilation album featuring a number of legendary African musicians. You will be inspired, educated, and uplifted. Please welcome The Mighty Joshua to For Songs.

With Hurricane Ida bearing down on his home state of Louisiana, musician Louis Michot felt helpless. After a quick jaunt for his band's—Grammy winning Lost Bayou Ramblers—first gig outside Louisiana in nearly two years, Michot and his crew raced home to be with their family as the storm approached. An unlucky break during the show led to a short COVID scare, but even more frightening were the cries for help he saw online as Ida pummeled New Orleans and other areas, knocking out power for weeks. Once he felt safe and healthy—he never did get sick, thankfully—Michot and his band raced into action, setting up gofundme campaigns to bring goods and services to those areas devastated by the storm. His band raised tens of thousands of dollars for supplies like food, gas, and everyday needs. Once the immediate crisis ended, he started thinking bigger. He launched the Louisiana Solar Fund (https://www.gofundme.com/f/Louisiana-Solar-Fund)to bring portable solar generators into indigenous areas wrecked by the storm. In this special episode of For Songs, Louis talks about this work, the state of the power grid, and why it is so important to bring resilient forms of energy to all corners of the country. Oh yeah, we also talk about music and his latest EP, the five-song live recording Tiny Island (https://nouveauelectricrecords.limitedrun.com/products/711205-tiny-island). Tiny Island was recorded by his second band Michot's Melody Makers outdoors on his property. The Melody Makers are joined by the incredible and versatile singer/songwriter/cellist Leyla McCalla. We talk about three songs from the EP, how the band maintains its tight sound without rehearsing, and how cool it is when the bugs and frogs living on Louis's property accompany the band. Please join me in welcoming Louis Michot back to For Songs.

It sounds like a cliché, but sometimes when you expect the unexpected, you might just get exactly what you need. That's what happened to then-California-based singer/songwriters Jade Jackson and Aubrie Sellers after a chance meeting in 2019. Jackson and Sellers, both accomplished artists on different ends of the country-rock spectrum, began working together on one of Jade's songs Hush during the start of the pandemic. One thing led to another, and both relocated to Nashville to record the compelling new album Breaking Point, released in October 2021. Breaking Point is a revelation, with both artists pushing themselves into an earthy, atmospheric album driven by loud, crunchy guitars and tight hooks all around. In this interview, Jackson and Sellers provide no explanation for how and why their voices blend so well together. Nor can they explain how their unlikely pairing has turned into a deep friendship and dramatic artistic statement. Join me as Jade and Aubrie walk us through four songs from Breaking Point—Devil is an Angel, Waste Your Time, Hush, and Fair Weather. We also discuss the fickle nature of the industry and how hard it is to make a living as an artist.

Welcome to the first episode of For Songs Singles! Instead of four songs, we talk about one. It's a bit shorter and lets us take a deep dive into the creation and meaning of one song in particular. On this first episode we feature Hesitate, the blistering new song from LA-based indie-rock band Sons of Silver. Hesitate is a musical and lyrical tour-de-force. It jumps out of the speakers with driving guitars and pounding bass and drums. Singer/songwriter Peter Argyropoulos takes the global decline of our discourse, where we wall off those we disagree with, whether they are family or friends. The song is both provocative and funny—certainly not an easy task. Yet Peter and the band pull it off with ease. You may not agree with what he says or how he says it, and that's almost the point. For those who aren't sure where they fit in these hyperpartisan, hypersensitive times, Hesitate is the song for you.

Time has a funny way of working, right? Some days feel like they last forever, while others are over in a blink of an eye. And the cruel joke is that as you get older, time seems to move even faster. One day you are a bright eyed, bushy tailed 20-something ready to take over the world, and the next, the world has chewed you up and spit you out. Well, maybe it's not that bad, but you get the point. On this episode of For Songs, singer/songwriter Dar Williams covers these themes and more on her latest album “I'll Meet You Here,” released on Oct. 1. Dar has been making music since the early 90s, following in the footsteps of folk-rock luminaries Joan Baez, Jim Croce, and others. In fact, Joan Baez's cover of Dar's 1993 rune “You're Aging Well” led to a career defining relationship. Joan took Dar under her wing, offering her advice and spots on tour throughout her career. And now Dar is roughly the same age as Joan Baez was when they first met, and she is returning the favor. Dar and I discuss “You're Aging Well” and three other songs from “I'll Meet You Here.” We talk about her influences—some will surprise you—and how she is gearing up to tour during a pandemic. So join me and welcome Dar Williams to For Songs.

It's a #ForSongs first! Check out my in-person interview with the mighty Dom Flemons (www.theamericansongster.com), singer/songwriter/historian/storyteller/trailblazer. Dom and I chatted about a hour before a mid-August 2021 show just south of Washington. Listen in as Dom discusses the touring life during COVID, what's changed, and how his connection with his fans is deeper and stronger than ever. We also discuss his important work in changing the narrative of American folk music and highlighting the contributions African-American artists have made throughout the course of history. And if you find yourself with a hankering for hot chicken at the end of this show, you'll know who to thank. Listen in as Dom Flemons makes his return appearance to For Songs.

Let me be clear: this is the most important interview I've ever done. It is my humbling honor to welcome the amazing singer/songwriter Lisset Diaz of the Sweet Lizzy Project (www,sweetlizzyproject.com) back to For Songs. Lisset and her bandmates emigrated from Havana, Cuba, to Nashville, TN, in 2017 to record their second full-length album Technicolor. Lisset is a frequent guest of the show, but this interview is different. If you've been watching the news, you know there is a once-in-a-generation protest movement in Cuba. Cubans are putting their lives on the line to bring an end to the authoritative regime. For Lisset, watching this from afar is both painful and inspirational. Painful because she doesn't know if her friends and family are safe, but inspirational because of the incredible courage her fellow Cubans are showing by taking to the streets. In this interview, Lisset talks about her hopes and her fears for her country. While she faces no repercussions in the US for speaking out, she knows there's a chance she may never be able to return to Cuba as long as the current regime is in power. And because Lisset is taking such a huge risk, we owe it to her to listen. Please, if you care about what's happening in Cuba, share this episode with a friend or family member. Make sure the world knows what is happening right now. Thank you and please welcome Lisset Diaz back to For Songs.

Buckle up folks. This is a special episode of For Songs. My guest is Larry Kirwan, lead singer/songwriter for the seminal Irish-American rock band Black '47. Black '47, for a time, was considered New York City's house band; they had a massive following up and down the East Coast. For folks of a certain age, Larry's music was their introduction to Irish history, particularly the Northern Ireland conflict. Join us as we talk about three great Black '47 songs, along with a brand new, exclusive track Rockaway Blue, based on his newest novel of the same name. If you like history, music, politics, and songwriting, you won't want to miss this!

Depending on where you live, one could say that we're going through a bit of a renewal. COVID cases are dropping, people are eating out, and as we've chronicled, live music is back! So it's appropriate, then, that my next guest and his band are going through a rebirth of their own. Berkeley, Ca., based The Jenny Thing (www.thejennything.com) first came to be in 1991. Their music blended 80s synth pop with the industrial rock sound popularized by 90s bands like Nine Inch Nails. The band was a West-Coast touring mainstay before calling it quits in 1999. As we get ready to venture back out into the world, The Jenny Thing is giving it another go as well. On this episode of For Songs, I speak with Matt Easton, lead singer and co-songwriter for The Jenny Thing. We talk about what led to the band's return engagement—American Canyon, released in early June 2021. We discuss four songs off the album: Paper Angel, American Canyon, Lightfield, and Waiting for the Knife. Matt talks about how the songwriting process works between himself and guitarist Shaom Rao, and just what a 90s band influenced by 80s music sounds like. Sometimes texture and space is just as important as driving bass and fresh guitars! So tune in!

Live music is here! And not just outdoors! But actual music in actual clubs--like it used to be before March 2020! As things open up, though, our favorite bars and clubs don't just flip a switch and go back to normal. Here in DC, many bars and clubs have been closed for a year and half! That's 18 months of no money, no people, no music, no drinks, nothing. It's not just been a slow week or month--it's been nothing coming in for almost two years! If any bars and clubs made it this far, they are barely hanging on. This episode of For Songs is a snippet from the online #saveourstages benefit (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SySNmoCdRvA&t=1s). We brought in eight amazingly talented and diverse bands and they talked about their favorite venues while also performing a number of awesome tunes. Go check it out now! The video included an interview with Sandra the Pie Lady, owner of the Pie Shop, and Tony T, owner of For Songs-sponsor The Pug, both in DC. The Pie Shop and the Pug have been closed since March 2020. They are getting ready to reopen. What do they need to do to get ready? What can you expect as a customer? When can you expect shows to start up again? Let Sandra and Tony take it away...

Most folks don't have the kind of year singer/songwriter Maia Sharp (www.maiasharp.com) just did. In addition to ending a 20-plus year marriage, she uprooted her life, moved from LA to Nashville and wrapped up the recording of her newest album Mercy Rising in late 2019. But that's not all. In between a tornado blew through her new neighborhood in March 2020 and during the subsequent recovery and rebuild, she caught the coronavirus before most of us knew how deadly it could be. So yeah, Maia's been through more than most over the last few years. And thankfully she's made it through with Mercy Rising. This episode of For Songs is a true writer's workshop. Maia's the quintessential songwriter, looking for inspiration wherever she can, and not waiting to get it out. We talk about the development of Mercy Rising and four songs in particular, including one driven by an interaction with best-selling author Cheryl Strayed. Maia walks us through the songwriting process from beginning to end in disarming detail, so to all those aspiring writers out there, get those pencils and listen in!

After co-leading Minneapolis-based Soul Asylum to stratospheric heights in the 90s, lead guitarist Dan Murphy quit the business cold in 2012. Tired of the grind, Murphy literally hung up his famous Les Paul, seemingly for good. While Soul Asylum carries on with singer/guitarist David Pirner as the only original member, Murphy has focused instead on his online pinup art gallery called Grapefruit Moon. But as they say, life happens. Murphy picked up the guitar again for a family funeral and started again. He's not back with Soul Asylum, but he still performs one-off gigs with his mid-90s alt.country supergroup Golden Smog. Well, at least he did before the pandemic. And he's also writing new material for an album that he expects to be released in early 2022. In this episode of For Songs, Murphy grants us a bit of an exclusive look into two new songs—Fresh New Hell and Rosary. We also talk his time with Golden Smog and discuss in detail songs from their 1996 debut full-length album Down By the Old Mainstream. As you can tell, Murphy's music had a profound impact on my life, so this episode is quite special to me. Hope you feel the same way! Listen in!

Take a deep dive into the songwriting process with Berkeley, Ca.-based singer/songwriter Emily Brown. Emily walks us through the making of her latest album A Fish of Earth, which is bursting with lush orchestration, strong melodies, and haunting instrumentation. It is an inspired album, with musical nods to Glen Campbell, Loretta Lynn, and gorgeous musicals like The Sound of Music. The album is made even stronger by her personal-yet-relatable lyrics focused on relationships—relationships with romantic partners, with parents, with expectations, and with religion. She credits her collaborators with the broad, bold sound, but her voice and spirit are at the album's core. In a sense, A Fish of Earth is a brave album: it is a marked departure from her earlier work as she willingly relinquished much of the production to her collaborators. The resulting sound is broad, ornate, and rich, but also evocative and dynamic. Emily discusses her songwriting process with a refreshing candor and humble nature. So sit back and take it all in, and welcome Emily Brown to For Songs