SMI (Seattle Music Insider) Radio

The BGP is a Northwest outfit that doesn’t sound like they are from The Northwest. Their sound flows through cities like New Orleans, Memphis, Atlanta, NY or Philly; it is definitely not the Puget Sound, if you dig. One could say that this group of friends and accomplished musicians plays a very sophisticated yet accessible brand of soul pop and rock. The truth is The BGP defies categorization. Oh sure you hear the influences but the boys have their own thing goin’ on and have for several years. Allen Stone used to open for them. The BGP opened for Fitz and The Tantrums who were playing their coming out party before achieving local and global success. These talented group of cats also appeared on national TV on America’s Got Talent. Over the course of their time together they have released an EP and a handful of singles. It all started when they released their debut EP, titled Love & Rent, in 2010. After a very successful Kickstarter campaign, the group has released their second EP, titled Fort Knox, in late 2015. The BGP is a band we have championed for almost 6 years. We have watched and heard them evolve during that time. It was an honor to have them kick off the musical portion of our 5 year Anniversary party last summer at Rhapsody World Headquarters in Seattle. We did so because we love their sound and you couldn’t meet a cooler bunch of fellas. The BGP will play their first show of the new year at the legendary Neumos on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, January 20th. Also on the bill will be Down North and Bardot. Tickets are available here. We have interviewed The BGP for past episodes of SMI Radio. We finally got the group to come into Critical Sun Studios for a live in-studio session and interview. The full interview and performances can be heard by clicking the player below. We invite you to take a look at their live performances of “Uhmerica,” “Normal Things,” and “VCR” engineered by Bubba Jones of Critical Sun Recordings with the video production and photo gallery courtesy of Jason Tang.

Lemolo’s last effort, The Kaleidoscope, released in 2013, was a critical success and one of our favorite releases of the year. The follow up, Red Right Return has been highly anticipated by fans and press alike. I have heard the new disc, and it is a brilliant collection of highly addictive, progressive, dream-pop ditties. After a few listens, it is obvious that Meagan Grandall has grown as a songwriter, arranger and musician. On the newest record, the songs and arrangements are more complex, and the soundscapes more lush. Seattle Rock Orchestra and Sisters’ very own Emily Westman performed on the new record and, along with Grandall, put together a heavier sound while still maintaining the trademark Lemolo sonic tapestry and dreamy vibe. Grandall’s musical journey has taken her on an interesting path that has led her to discover her true voice, which is beautifully on display on Lemolo’s newest release. Lemolo will celebrate the release of their new disc, Red Right Return on Friday, November 6 at 8:00 p.m. at an all-ages show at The Crocodile. Also on the bill is the amazing Maiah Manser and Mimicking Birds. Tickets for the show are available here. For our first SMI Radio episode of the fall season, we welcome Lemolo into Critical Sun Studio who will talk about Red Right Return, and perform a few songs from the record. Lemolo’s Grandall and drummer Adrian Centoni talk about the evolution of the sound and songwriting, as well as some of the distinctions between their new, highly touted release, The Kaleidoscope.

On this Episode, SMI Radio’s Greg Roth invites Vaudeville Etiquette into Critical Sun Radio Studio for a chat and an in-studio performance, including an unreleased song from their forthcoming release. Greg talks to the band about their history, their sound and their upcoming performances at Chinook Fest. Vaudeville Etiquette will be performing on the main stage on Saturday, July 11 at 3:15. Also on this week’s show, we feature tracks from Chinook Fest artists, X-Ambassadors and Allen Stone.

On this week's episode of SMI Radio, Naked Giants visit the Critical Sun Radio Studio to chat with host Greg Roth and perform live in studio. The boys will be performing live at Timber! Outdoor Music Festival taking place in Carnation, Washington July 16 - 18. Naked Giants will be taking the main stage at 4:40 on Saturday (6/17). Based on what you we heard and saw in the studio, this is a band not to be missed! In the second half of the show, Greg caught up down with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame DJ, and music curator Marco Collins a few weeks back while he was taking a break from his MC duties at Fisherman's Village Music Festival. Marco gets personal as he talks about his movie The Glamour and The Squalor, which made its very successful debut at SIFF to rave reviews. Marco also shares his insights to the state of the music industry today and his continued passion for discovering and curating great Northwest artists. Marco will be the official MC for Chinook Fest Summit 2015 taking place this weekend, July 10- 12. Marco will be hosting and DJ the after-party on Saturday (7/11) right after headliner Allen Stone finishes his headlining set.

On this week's episode of SMI Radio, Greg Roth takes you back inside Critical Sun Radio Studio for another live session with the brilliant Catherine Feeny and Chris Johnedis. Feeny and Johnedis create a big, etherial and eclectic sound with their unique arrangements and tones. Fenny talks about the challenges and joys of being a recording artist and shares her experience of participating in the Occupy Wall Street movement which began in September 2011 in Zuccotti Park. Feeny and Johnedis were in town to play a special Seattle Living Room Show performance later that night. In the second half of the show Greg catches up with Seattle Living Room Show founders, Carrie and Kristen Watt backstage at Northwest Folklife. The Watt sisters talked about their 7 year anniversary celebration and what they have planned coming up in year eight.

SMI Radio's Greg Roth sits down for an interview and live in-studio performance with Seattle Supergroup, Super Jam at Critical Sun Radio studio. Roth talks to the band and their promoter Steven Roseta about the project and their upcoming show which took place at Seattle's Triple Door on Saturday, May 23 The band performs music from UK music legends, Squeeze and Elvis Costello

Chinook Fest kicks it's fourth year but unlike previous years, Chinook Fest brings music fans double the fun on both sides of the Snoqualmie pass. Chinook Fest at the summit will feature Allen Stone headlining the main stage along with X Ambassadors, Barcelona, Vicci Martinez, Austin Jenckes, The Maldives, Northwest supergroup, Rust on The Rails, Tess Henley and a lot more. Check out the complete lineup by going to http://chinookfest.com. On this week's episode you will here my interview Austin Jenckes right after he walked off stage for his performance at the Crocodile. Austin talks about his move to Nashville, his strong connections to the Northwest and his new record that is in the works. Austin will be playing both Chinook Fest events at Snoqualmie Summit and Naches, Washington, September 11 - 13. In the first half of the show I speak with longtime friend of SMI, Cody Beebe. Cody chats about organizing Chinookfest 2015, How he booked Allen Stone and his musical projects. In addition, Cody shares a very special personal announcement.

On this week's episode of SMI Radio, host Greg Roth sits down with long time friend of the show and soul singer Eldridge Gravy from Eldridge Gravy & The Court Supreme. Roth debut's the band's brand new single, "Hey Big Freak" and talks to Eldridge about the band's plans for 2015 and their new record which will drop later in this year. In the second half of this week's episode, Zarni steps into Critical Sun Radio studio for a special in-studio performance of selections from her recently released EP. Zarni talks about the making of the record and the inspiration behind the songs that comprise her newest release

In the first half of this week's episode SMI Radio's Greg Roth has an exclusive backstage interview at Seattle's Triple door on night one of his 5 night series, Allen Stone: Evolution of an Artist. Roth and Allen talk about how his life has changed in the last 3 years and his forthcoming May, Capitol Records release, Radius. In the second half of the show Roth interviews Seattle artist Maiah Manser. Mariah opened for Stone earlier in the evening at The Triple Door

On the most recent episode of SMI Radio I catch up with NWCZ Radio founder, Darrell Fortune and host of his new show True Fidelity which can be heard every Thursday night from 6:00 - 8:00pm PST. In the second half of the show we treat you to a wonderful in-studio performance and conversation with a very talented Northwest singer/songwriter, Sarah Gerritsen, recorded at Critical Sun Radio.

In the first half of this week’s episode of SMI Radio, I catch with Ben Harwood and Jeff Silva, who form the powerful, high-octane rock duet, Hobosexual. The boys talk about they got together, their approach unique approach to how they make up their sound, the origins of the band’s name and some interesting entrepreneurial ventures they are embarking upon. Hobosexual recently performed at Chinookfest 2014. In the second half of this week’s show, I take you back inside of Critical Sun Radio studios for a special live performance and conversation with the beautiful and brilliant Olivia De La Cruz, joined by bassist, Issac Castillo. Along with some selections from her debut record, Olivia and Issac perform an unreleased song from her forthcoming, yet to be titled 2015 release. Olivia also talks about her musical influences and her most recent performance which took place this past Sunday night at The Triple Door (The EP release of Rust on The Rails, a new supergroup, comprised of past SMI Radio guests, Cody Beebe and Blake Noble). Olivia swill also be performing Thursday night, October 9 at Columbia City Theater as part of Come Together for the Planet: A Tribute to John Lennon. Tickets for the show are available here.

SMI Radio is back for the new Fall Season and we are kicking it off right with two brilliant artists. It is hard to believe that it was 30 Summers ago that that the iconic movie and record Purple Rain.was released. Both were a blockbuster successes and the film and recording still holds up as a wonderful musical snapshot which captured Prince at his commercial peak. In the first half of this episode we bring back a good friend of SMI. Matt Fink AKA, Doctor Fink . The good Doctor recorded and performed with the legendary funk rock icon Prince from 1979 to 1991 and best known for being a member of The Purple One’s backing band, The Revolution. He had one of the best lines in the movie Purple Rain.The soundtrack sold over 18,000 million copies and The good Doctor won a Grammy for his contribution. I caught up with Dr. Fink backstage at Nectar Lounge when he was in town to play some classic Prince songs with Haiku Chi. Dr Fink also sat in with The Stax Brothers and Furniture Girls. Matt shares his experience working on Purple Rain and talks about some of his many projects including his Prince tribute band, The Purple Experience. In the second half of the show, we take you to Critical Sun Radio Studios for my conversation and live performance from the pop/soul chanteuse, Susan Galbraith. Susan performs her brand new single, “No Room For You,” as well as some unreleased material from her forthcoming record.

SMI Radio in conjunction with Critical Sun Recordings and Artist Home present another episode of a newly launched series entitled “Timber! Shows!” The series features exclusive artist interviews and live, exclusive music sessions recorded at the Critical Sun Radio studios. The second annual Timber! Outdoor Music Festival is slated for July 24 – 26 in beautiful Carnation, Washington. On this week’s episode, SMI Radio’s Greg Roth, along with Timber! Critical Sun’s Bubba Jones welcomes Timber! artist, Julia Massey & The Five Finger Discount. The band performs exclusive live selections off of their forthcoming record. This refreshingly original world-pop outfit talks about how they all came together and the evolution of their unique sound.

SMI Radio in conjunction with Critical Sun Recordings and Artist Home present another episode of a newly launched series entitled “Timber! Shows!” The series features exclusive artist interviews and live, exclusive music sessions recorded at the Critical Sun Radio studios. The second annual Timber! Outdoor Music Festival is slated for July 24 – 26 in beautiful Carnation, Washington. On this week’s episode, SMI Radio’s Greg Roth, along with Timber! Camp Counselor, Joe Hammill welcomes Timber! artist, Cumulus. The band performs exclusive live selections off of their most recent record, I Never Meant It To Be Like This, the making of their most recent video “Do You Remember” (See Below), their brand of music, which defies categorization. Cumulus has some eclectic influences, and they share with us some of the wonderful artists who have helped shape and inspire their sound.

SMI Radio in conjunction with Critical Sun Recordings and Artist Home present another episode of a newly launched series entitled “Timber! Shows!” The series features exclusive artist interviews and live, exclusive music sessions recorded at the Critical Sun Radio studios. The second annual Timber! Outdoor Music Festival is slated for July 24 – 26 in beautiful Carnation, Washington. On this week’s episode, SMI Radio’s Greg Roth, along with KIRO Radio's Sean De Torre welcomes Timber! artist, Eldridge Gravy & The Court Supreme. When SMI Radio launched in April, 2010, our very first musical guest was Eldridge Gravy from Eldridge Gravy and The Court Supreme. This time around, the band visits the Critical Sun Radio studios for some funky conversation and to perform several numbers LIVE off or their most recent joint, Gravy's In Your Area. EG&TCS ringmaster Eldridge Gravy talks about the origin and mythology of this tight and funky outfit. Also, Mr. Gravy talks about the recent gig the band performed at Nectar Lounge to raise money for The Tribes Project. Eldridge Gravy & The Court Supreme will open for the incomparable soul man, Charles Bradley at 7pm on Saturday, July 26 on the MainStage at Timber! Out Door Music Festival.

SMI Radio in conjunction with Critical Sun Recordings and Artist Home present another episode of a newly launched series entitled “Timber! Shows!” The series features exclusive artist interviews and live music sessions recorded at the Critical Sun Radio studios. The second annual Timber! Outdoor Music Festival will be taking place July 24 – 26 in beautiful Carnation Washington. On this week’s episode, SMI Radio’s Greg Roth, along with Artist Home's Phil O' Sullivan welcomes Timber! artist, Mikey and Matty. This brilliant brother duo perform an exclusive unreleased song from their forthcoming release as well some other music from their most recent effort, Harbor Island. Mikey and Matty also chat about their musical influences, their collaborative style, playing Timber! 2014 and their recent performance with The Head And The Heart. Also, Artist Home's and Timber co-organizer Phil O'Sullivan talks about the fun happenings and unique activities that help make up this year's festival as well as the robust festival lineup.

SMI Radio in conjunction with Critical Sun Recordings and Artist Home present the debut episode of a new series entitled “Timber! Shows.” The series features exclusive artist interviews and live music sessions recorded at the Critical Sun Radio studios. The second annual Timber! Outdoor Music Festival will be taking place July 24 – 26 in beautiful Carnation Washington. On this week’s episode, SMI Radio’s Greg Roth, along with Critical Sun’s Bubba Jones welcomes Timber! artist, Lonesome Shack for an interview and a live in-studio session featuring exclusive performances of songs from the band’s debut record, “City Man” and forthcoming release “More Primitive.” Lonesome Shack will be performing their record release show on Friday, May 23d at Columbia City Theater. Also visiting Greg in the studio is Timber! counselor Eric Sullivan. Eric chats about some of the fun and exciting activities taking place along side the great music acts performing at the festival.

Sean De Tore an assistant producer of the Ron and Don Show, on KIRO Radio. He is also a passionate music journalist and colleague. Sean has been hosting his Mixtape podcast for over 4 years. The Mixtape features some stellar Northwest music talent of all genres. This past summer, Sean hosted his very first Mixtape "Live" at Barboza in Capitol Hill. Headlining the bill that night was The Glass Notes, who delivered a rousing and gritty performance that night. Sean shares his thoughts on the local music scene and more. On this weeks's episode of SMI Radio Sean comes into the studio to help cohost this week's show. You will hear some exclusive tracks from artists like Nouela, Yucca Mountain, Tangerine, The Maldives and Smokey Brights. Also, if you listen carefully to the show you may be able to win some cool prizes. In the second half of the show. Bradford Loomis stops by along with fellow artist Beth Whitney. Brad talks about his most recent record, Into the Great Unknown. Brad also chats about his next project with Beth and his recently launched Kickstarter campaign which will go to raise funds for them to record the new disc. Brad is playing tonight (1/25) in Seattle with The True Spokes and Ian McFeron Band at the Crocodile. Tickets for the show are available here.

he Jordan Cook AKA Reignwolf crazy buzz started almost two years ago with a stunning in-store performance at Easy Street Records in Seattle and an equally stunning performance at Sasquatch! and Bumbershoot 2012 and Sasquatch! 2013. Mr. Cook is wowing fans across the land with his electric and intense showmanship. Reignwolf is an artist in perpetual motion and there is no stage or space that can contain him. This is one wild wolf that can’t be caged and consumes anything and everything in his path. He does his thing live, large and walks a musical tightrope without a net. On this week’s episode of SMI Radio I chat with Reignwolf to talk about his style is approach to his live performances and his blues-based, gritty, raw Americana rock sound. Back in the 1990′s band’s like Nirvanna, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam and Screaming Trees helped lead a rock and roll revolution and collectively contributed to putting Seattle on the music map. Another Seattle rock outfit called Truly earned a ton of respect but their sound defied the grunge classification. Truly featured former Screaming Trees skin pounder, Mark Pickerel, former Soundgarden bassist, Hiro Yamamoto and the smooth yet menacing voice and overdriven guitar stylings of Robert Roth. The power-trio was first championed in the 90′s by DJ and tastemaker, Marco Collins while he was on air at 107.7 The End. The band’s first full length record and sonic masterpiece Fast Stories From Kid Coma released on Capital Records garnered praises from MTV and Steve Kurutz of Allmusic. Kurutz gave the album four and a half stars, calling it “a loosely based concept album. After a several year hiatus, Truly is back and will help celebrate The Moe 20 Neumos 10th Anniversary Shows on Sunday, January 12 at 6:00pm

When SMI Radio launched in April of 2010 our very first musical guest was Joe Simpson AKA Eldridge Gravy from Eldridge Gravy and The Court Supreme. The band released their most recent record, Gravy’s In Your Area which was released last month. I catch up with Joe to talk about the band’s new disc, some of the personal changes in the group and we spin some selected tracks from the new release. In the second half of the show I welcome back Artist Home's Kevin Sur. Kevin and his crew are responsible for staging some incredible Northwest music festivals. Last year Artist Home launched the very first annual Timber! Outdoor Music Festival. It was so successful that he is bringing it back an expanded version taking place this summer. You don't have to wait for the summer sun to enjoy some great music in a festival setting. Artist Home will present the very first Timberrr! Winter Music Festival which will take place later this month (1/10 - 1/11) in beautiful Leavenworth, Washington. Kevin and I chat this unique music event and the participating artists such as Hey Marseilles, Telekenisis, The Moondoggies, Radiation City and a lot more. (For the complete lineup go here.) We also share some music from Timberrr! artists as well.

On this week's episode of SMI Radio, I catch up with Grouplove's Christian Zucconi from the road. The band played two stellar shows in the Emerald City this past fall. You can see photos and a write up of the show by clicking the link below. Christian talks about the new musical direction on the bands most recent record, Spreading Rumors. Along with an interesting conversation with Christian, you will hear selected tracks from the new disc as well. In the second half of this week's show, you will hear my conversation with Bothell Washington's very own Robert DeLong. Robert has played drums in a ton of indie rock bands and even did his thing in his high school marching band. Robert's main musical focus is directed towards House, electronica, EDM, and moombahton but his rhythm acumen and affinity for a good melody remain intact as you will hear as we feature some selected tracks from Mr. Delong's most recent effort, Just Movement. This MTV's artist to watch will be back in the Emerald City January 23rd to play a headlining gig at Barboza. Tickets are available here.

Kithkin is more than just a band they are truly a Tribe. This percussive and highly rhythmic outfit possess strong chops and produces and eclectic blend of afro-beat, rock and more. The band wowed audiences this past summer with powerful performances at Timber! Outdoor Music Festival and Bumbershoot 2013. The band did Cascadia proud this past week by performing at the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival. On this week's episode of SMI Radio, I chat the group about their unique sound, influences and inspirations. Music Festival and Bumbershoot 2013. The band did Cascadia proud this past week by performing at the Iceland Airwaves Music Festival. On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, I chat the group about their unique sound, influences and inspirations. Rachel Belle is a talented irreverent and funny radio Host at KIRO as well. She also has a real passion for music. I spoke to Rachel about some of her favorite artists and the continued growth of the Seattle music scene and the variety of genres represented throughout the region. Her entertaining feature “Ring My Belle” can be heard on KIRO daily and on weekends. Her show is also available On Demand right here. You will also here selected tracks from Kithkin, The Glass Notes and Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, I catch up once again via Skype with one of the best bassists in the biz. Tony shares some tales about working with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominee, Peter Gabriel and his most recent project Levin, Rudess Minnemann, produced by former Seattle resident, Scott Schorr of Lazy Bones Recordings (he also produced a project with Tony a couple of years back, Levin Torn White.) LRM features the brilliant keyboard work Dream Theater keyboardist Jordan Rudess and drummer Marco Minnemann.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, we welcome back two of the festival organizers, Kevin Sur and Phil O’Sullivan, to update us on some of the cool happenings at Timber! 2013. You will hear featured music from the participating artists and they talk specifically about some of the activities that make their event much more than just another music festival. Timber! will feature the brilliant Andrew Joslyn and his Passenger String Quartet. Andrew has been a busy man of late working with several prominent Northwest artists. Recently Joslyn could be seen on stage with the likes of Duff McKagen, The Local Strangers. His lovely string arrangements can be heard on the Macklemore and Ryan Lewis mega-hit album, The Heist. I recently caught up with Andrew at one of my favorite interview spots in The Emerald City. You will hear that conversation as well as some tracks that Andrew lent his talents to.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, the sisters Watt chat about the big 5 year anniversary show taking place this Saturday, April 27th. Carrie and Kristen share tales memorable moments from past events and the many artists that have made SLS appearances, and talk about their unique partnership with Melodic Caring Project. Also, we spin selected tracks from past Seattle Living Room Show artists Allen Stone, Levi Weaver, Kris Orlowski, Shane Alexander, Ivan & Alyosha, Ravenna Woods and The Local Strangers. Congratulations, Carrie And Kristen Watt, for 5 brilliant years of bringing the best artists in the Northwest and beyond to the music loving masses!

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio we will celebrate the new release of FATT’s forthcoming release by featuring selected tracks off the new release and spin a couple of faves from their first record. Ahead of last Monday’s show, I spoke to Fitzy via phone from Atlanta. We talked about what has changed for the band since they launched in Seattle in 2010 (a lot!) and the direction and making of the new record. In the second half of the show, I turn the clock back and feature excerpts from my backstage interviews with Fitz at Sasquatch 2011, as well as my conversation with drummer and former Seattle resident, John Wicks, recorded backstage at the Crocodile in Novermber of 2010.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, I catch up with Ritzy on the road. She talks about how the band brings their intensity and rock and roll attitude whether they are playing a club, theater, arena, or festival. Ritzy also shares her love of Seattle and the passion that Seattle has for music in general. She also talks about the band’s appearance in the Jawbone / Jam Box commercial, which featured the stunning song This Ladder is Ours (See Video Below). You’ll also hear selected tracks from Wolf’s Law and the aptly titled, The Big Roar. The second half of the show features Kelly Donovan and Ben Weller from Beat 100. It’s a music video and social network with primary focus on the two music video charts; one for originals and another for covers. Every week, the charts are compiled and the top three winners are rewarded with cash prizes, along with press releases, which are distributed worldwide. BEAT100 also includes a social network, where musicians can connect with each other, find new fans, and gain likes/followers on their social networking platforms. Kelly and Ben share their thoughts on how Beat 100 and can benefit artists and how the site continues to add some sexy functionality. In the last segment of the show, SMI contributor / photographer Mat Hayward shares his thoughts on the first annual Roctographer Happy Hour event taking place at The Triple Door tonight, April 4th, in Seattle. To read more about the event, click the link below.

Artist Home epitomizes this through their efforts in the staging of innovative and popular outdoor music events, such as Doe Bay Fest, which spawned the documentary Welcome to Doe Bay (see video below), Slackfest and Summer Bonfire Series. This summer, the good folks that brought you these great happenings are putting together another special event dubbed Timber! Outdoor Music Festival. Timber! is the new outdoor music festival from Artist Home Presents uniting music, community, and the beautiful natural environment of the Pacific Northwest. To present Timber!, Artist Home is partnering with King County Parks to set the festival in the rural splendor of Carnation, Washington. The current festival lineup consists of The Helio Sequence, Fruit Bats, Lemolo, Bryan John Appleby, Kithkin, River Giant, Ten Speed Music and just recently announced, Thee Quasi celebrating their 20th year as a band!! Hobosexual, Passenger String Quartet (stay tuned to find out who they’ll be collaborating with!), Pablo Trucker, and the first of the TOMF lineup of official “buskers” Nu Klezmer Army. Tickets went on sale March 12, and are available for purchase here. On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, two of the festival organizers, Kevin Sur and Phil O’Sullivan, stop by the studio to talk about Artist Home events. You can hear featured music from the participating artists, and Kevin and Phil reveal additional acts just added to the bill.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, Justin and Jim stop by the studio to talk about their long-term friendship and musical kinship. They also select a few tracks from their self-titled EP, which you’ll hear on this week’s show. If you want to see Science! do their thing live, they’ll be playing Nectar Lounge on Tuesday, March 26, at 8pm. Nicki Bluhm and The Gramblers‘ sound harkens back to the days of early 70s southern California rock, which spawned the likes of Jackson Brown and The Eagles. Bluhm and her band captures the spirit of that beautiful sound while putting their own stamp on it. The band has garnered a lot of attention from the viral video recorded in their car of Hall & Oats, I Can’t Go For That, resulting in almost 2 million views. In the second half of the show, California artist Nicki Bluhm shares her thoughts in a backstage interview prior to her sold-out show at Seattle’s Triple Door. Nicki talks about some of her musical influences, such as Linda Ronstadt, Karen Carpenter, and Stevie Nicks.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, I catch up with Unsigned Only’s Ben Short to gain more insight to how UO works, how it got started, and the unique opportunity that it offers unsigned, emerging artists. You will also hear some tracks from past UO winners, Lara Johnston and Laura Steel. UO is still accepting song entries. Contestants interested in submitting songs for the competition can do so here. Specific days and runtimes of this week’s episode are available by scrolling down… In the second half of the show, Tacoma native Vicci Martinez is back on SMI Radio. Vicci dials in from the road, as she makes her way back to to the Northwest to play several dates, which include a show in Bellingham on Thursday, May 14 and a special St. Patty’s Day show on Sunday, March 17 at her old stomping grounds, Jazzbones in Tacoma. Tickets for that show are available here. Vicci is also in town to make her first video, which will include several friends and associates as extras. She’ll drop some hints on the concept of the video. Her single, Come Along, which she recorded with Cee Lo Green, has gotten a second life, thanks to her constant touring and radio airplay. You can get it on iTunes, Amazon.com and Bandcamp. Although Vicci has been spending the last couple years in LA, based on our conversation, her heart still remains in the Northwest.

Critical Sun Recordings is heading back to Austin, Texas and South by Southwest. This year, Critical Sun will be hosting the only unofficial SXSW showcase featuring a lineup comprised solely of bands from Seattle. Thursday, March 14th at Opal Divine’s Penn Field, Critical Sun @ SXSW 2013, will blow a hole in the space-time continuum with a free, five-hour showcase featuring electro rock band Furniture Girls, alt-country quintet Sightseer, pop rockers In Cahoots, singer/songwriters Rob Marcus and Yusif, soul/R&B vocalist Darrius Willrich and groove-rock duo Ghost Tribe Fires. All seven artists will perform music from their upcoming 2013 releases. On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, members from the participating bands pop by the studio to talk about SXSW and play tracks from the Critical Sun 2013 SXSW Compilation CD. (For specific air times and stations scroll down below.) Sightseer (www.sightseermusic.com) Furniture Girls (www.furnituregirls.com) Darrius Willrich (www.darriuswillrich.com) In Cahoots (www.incahootsband.com) Ghost Tribe Fires (www.ghosttribefires.com) Rob Marcus (www.robmarcus.com) Yusif (www.yusifmusic.com)

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, Jason and Alissa stop by to share their stories of life on the road, touring in sub-zero temperatures while making beautiful music together. They walk us through their creative process and inspirations for their brand new record. You will get to hear songs that they selected, including a special song inspired by their 1-year-old daughter, Lillie.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, we take you into the band’s rehearsal and work space to talk about their brand new record to be released next week. (Details and broadcast times are below) They talk about their musical influences, which range from The Beatles to Tom Jones. Ivan & Alyosha also talk about their forthcoming tour that will take them across the U.S. Before the band hits the road, they will be playing their record release show Saturday, February 23d at Showbox @ The Market.Past SMI Radio guest, Kris Orlowski, Smokey Brights and The Passenger String Quartet will also be on the bill. The show will be streamed live via Melodic Caring Project.

This week’s episode of SMI Radio features two brilliant artists, who each have very powerful and organic sounds, coupled with very strong production and songwriting: Campfire Ok and Kristen Ward. In the first half of the show, members of Campfire Ok, Michael Mychal Cohen, Brandon Milner, and the band’s newest member, Zarni De Wet (who was on the last episode here) stopped by the SMI Radio studio. These talented musicians chat up their brand new record, When You Have Arrived, and special show coming up next Saturday night, February 16 and Sunday night February 17th at The Showbox at The Market (on the bill with The Presidents of The United States of America). They share their take on their own unique and eclectic music and their appearance in the documentary, Welcome to Doe Bay. They also call out another Seattle band, Pickwick, for a throwdown – but it’ is all in good fun! In the second half of the show, we hit up Kristen Ward on the phone to talk about her stellar performance last Friday at The Triple Door, which featured all of the songs of her most recent record, Last Night On Division. Read the review and check out photos from the show by clicking the link below.

Featured on this week’s episode of SMI Radio are two extremely talented pianist and singer / songwriters, Zarni De Wet and Andrea Desmond. Both of these lovely ladies relocated to the Northwest within the last year and are both making a splash with solid vocal and piano chops coupled with catchy songs. In the first half of the show, Zarni talks about her music and her move to Seattle because of the fertile music scene. She shares a tale of her meeting with John Mayer, while attending Berklee College of Music. Zarni is ambitious as she is talented, and you’ll soon find out why. For the second half of the show, we take you inside Vitrolla Coffee in Capitol Hill for a friendly conversation with Andrea and her band’s drummer, William, for their take on music, their influences, and the recording process. You may remember that Andrea came in second at The Seattle Wave Radio Jammin’ Challenge last December.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, we take you inside Bedlam Coffee for a revealing look into Mary’s heart. She talks about how her life has changed since the release of Same Love and her performance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Mary also opens up about her spiritual life, the distinctions of crafting songs versus slam poetry, and her upcoming tour that will take her to the East Coast. Her sendoff show and release of her book of poetry is at Fremont Abbey Saturday night, January 19th.Tickets are available here. If you can’t make it to Fremont, check out the photos of Mary playing the Seattle Living Room / Melodic Caring Project show from January 5th… The second half of this week’s episode features a visit to the rehearsal space of The Local Strangers. Aubrey Zoli and Matt Hart are coming off an exceptional performance at Doe Bay last weekend, and they open up about how they formed their musical partnership and created their newest record, Left For Better.

On this week’s episode, we welcome our friend Ben back to SMI Radio. Ben stops by to talk about making the newest record, This Blessed Union Volume II, and play his favorite tracks. Ben and the boys celebrate the release of their latest effort Saturday, January 12 at the Crocodile. (100 tickets are available for 21 and under) In the second half of the show, we take you backstage to Nectar Lounge to chat with electronic pop outfit, The Fame Riot. Glitter twins, Liz Scarlett and Shazam “Tea Time” Watkins discuss their catchy sound, their unique fashion sense and eclectic musical influences. We will feature some of some fresh tracks from the dynamic duo as well. The Fame Riot will be performing at the Ben Union Record release show along with Aaron Daniel. The event will also feature guest appearances by previous SMI Radio guests, Tess Henley, Guy Keltner of Fox and the Law Greg Floyd of Whiskey Syndicate, Matt Brown and Ayron Jones, Also, Travis Barker of Elk and Boar will make and appearance.

The Pacific Northwest weaves a rich tapestry of eclectic music and art that covers our region like a favorite blanket. We embrace artists from a variety of eras and genres, and we’re better for it. All year long, we at SMI do our best to feature the best of the Northwest. This includes established and emerging artists, and those who make us fall in love with them as they pass though town. This week’s episode of SMI Radio features holiday music from artists who have been past guests on the show. It’s like a virtual holiday card that doesn’t clutter up your space or get lost under the bills! First, Fitz and The Tantrums tear it up. Next, check out the number by harmonica virtuoso Lee Oskar, with lyrics penned by Michael Shrieve and vocals from R&B singer Ernest Pumphrey Jr. (Marmalade, Phat Sidy Smokehouse, and more). Deep Sea Diver, The HoHoHos, a wonderful Christmas medley from Jessica Latshaw, songs from Brent Amaker and The Rodeo, LeRoy Bell and Ann and Nancy Wilson (Heart) will deck your halls. The second half of the show features more Christmas rock from The HoHoHos! – and I chat Tess Henley. Tess talks about the progress of her new record, which will be released around March – and you can check out her newest holiday single, Christmas Won’t Do Without You (featuring The Passenger String Quartet). The show is rounded out with a power-pop ditty from Quickie, a smooth tune called This Christmas, written by Michael Shrieve’s talented 22 year old son, Sam Shrieve, and concluded with an uplifting song from the voice of Yes, Jon Anderson.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, we take you inside the green room at Seattle’s Q13 Fox for a conversation with 2013 Rock and Roll Hall of fame inductees, Roger Fisher and bassist Steve Fossen. They discuss how it feels to be recognized by their peers for their significant contributions to music. They also talk about their long-term friendship that dates all the way back to junior high and what inspired them to be musicians. In addition, the two artists share their feelings on what it will be like to stand on the podium with their former bandmates to accept the special honor. Eternal Fair front man Andrew Vait joins us for the second half of the show. The band is in the home stretch of raising funds for their new record via Kickstarter, and plans to Andrew talks about a big show that they will be performing with Hot Bodies In Motion and Motopony, as part of the Everett Music Initiative. The show will take place on Saturday, January 19th, at the Anchor Pub in Everett. (Go here for tickets.) Next, we hear from Julie Mains, lead singer for the Christmas power-pop outfit, The HoHoHos AKA The Juliettes. The band is played a special show this Saturday, December 15th, at The Rec Room in Everett, and will be broadcast live on NWCZRadio.com starting at 7pm. Presented by Femination Media, the show will be MC’d by SMI Managing Editor, Jennifer Austin. Northwest Convergence Zone’s Darryl Fortune and I will host the broadcast on NWCZ. (Tickets are here.)

ast week on SMI Radio, we featured a fun conversation and music from Daydream Vacation, with David Einmo (Head Like A Kite) and Asy Saavedra. Asy spoke briefly about her other project, Chaos Chaos (formerly Smoosh), which involves her sister Chloe. Asy flew into town to perform with Daydream Vacation at The Vera Project this past Friday, and The Anchor in Everett the following night. The next night, Chaos Chaos played a show at The Crocodile. and also appeared for a KEXP session. On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, we take you backstage at The Vera Project for a conversation with Asy and Chloe. The two sisters make their home in Brooklyn, New York, but definitely consider Seattle their other home. They talk about the distinctions between their former project, Smoosh, and how it evolved into Chaos Chaos. David Einmo joins the conversation later on to talk about the new track he’s producing for Chaos Chaos while they’re in town. Also, Asy and Chloe reveal how Hurricane Sandy directly impacted them. In addition, we feature selected tracks from their debut EP. In the second half of the show, you get a triple shot of Christmas spirit from The HoHoHos, Brent Amaker and The Rodeo and Fitz and The Tantrums. We finish the show off with the brand new single from the forthcoming Ben Union record, This Blessed Union Volume II. (Ben Union will play their record release show on January 12th at The Crocodile.)

In this week’s episode of SMI Radio, Dave Einmo visits the studio and we talk via Skype with Asy, who resides in Brooklyn, for a revealing conversation with these two talented artists. Dave and Asy tell the story of how they formed their special musical partnership and their high-functioning bio-coastal collaboration, which results in some infectious ear candy. We also discuss what goes in to making some of their artsy and fun videos (check out some of them here) In addition, you will hear some tracks, including their most recent single, The Mirage, off of their most recent effort, Dare Seize The Fire. Seven Dials is a young talented and creative power trio made up of three siblings – also at the Vera Project this Friday. In the second half of this week’s show, catch the interesting backstage interview with 14-year-old Mia Natas (lead vocals, guitar), Darius Natas (bass, backing vocals) and Damien Natas (drums, piano). They talk about growing up in a musically nurturing family, their inspirations, and unique musical style. Seven Dials will release their new record, The Malady of Seven Dials, in 2013. You will also hear a special Christmas song from The Ho Ho Ho’s.

this week’s episode of SMI Radio, once again we take you inside the famous Hurricane Cafe (see photos below) for an interesting and insightful conversation with the eclectic and talented Brent Amaker. Brent talks about his interesting brand of “cowboy rock” and his influences that include everything from Johnny Cash, to the Ramones, to 80′s New Wave. Brent also talks about his love for the road, the state of country music, and more. Brent Amaker and The Rodeo will take the stage next Wednesday, November 21st at The Triple Door. Tickets are available for purchase here. In the second half of the show, you’ll hear from guitarist and vocalist Lukas Nelson. Lukas talks about his many musical influences that include his father, Willie Nelson, his song writing process, and his most recent appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman. Lukas was recently in town to play a show at Tractor with past SMI Radio guests and friends, Ayron Jones & The Way.

n this week’s episode of SMI Radio, we take you to the famous Hurricane Cafe for a sit-down with the brilliant singer / songwriter Kris Orlowski. Kris talks about the inspiration for his music and the creative process for crafting and producing his beautiful and haunting songs. Kris is heading down to California this week for a series of shows. He will be in LA on Friday, November 9th to play the Hotel Cafe. and will be back in town to play Tractor on Thursday, November 15th. In the second half of the show you will here a backstage interview with guitarist and vocalist Larson Haakenstad and vocalist Ayesha Musicbox from the eclectic and soulful City Faire. Larson and Ayesha discuss their musical influences and how they come up with their brand of rock, soul and blues. They will be playing the High Dive with Whiskey Syndicate this Friday, November 9th.

On this week’s episode of SMI Radio, we take you backstage at Jazz Bones for a conversation with Mycle and Matt. In the first half of the show, Mycle talks about his adventure performing on The Voice, and how he went from a construction job and segued into a music career. In the second half of the show, Matt joins in the conversation and discusses his music and songwriting process. (Matt Recently participated in The Seattle Living Show and Melodic Caring Project concert a few weeks back. Check it out here.) In addition, you will hear selected tracks from both of these stellar Northwest artists.

This week’s episode of SMI Radio features an interesting backstage conversation with Azad Cheikosman, (guitars, vocals, and loops) Bridgette Eliza Moody, (bass, vocals, loops and percussion) and Eric Fabbro (drums, percussion). The members of Torches talk about their music their influences and how they made their Seattle connection. RockStar Motel‘s Director of A&R, Jason Friendt, is also a guest. Jason talks about his trip to New York and CMJ, RockStar Motel, and how he and this week’s featured artist, Torches, hooked up. Jason is also a music journalist, and the founder of Seismic-sound.com - and has an exciting new series you’ll want to hear about.

This week’s episode of SMI Radio features an interesting conversation with Fox and The Law frontman, Guy Keltner, as well as tracks from their most recent effort. Guy talks about the painstaking effort in recording the group’s record and the inspiration behind the songs. Keltner also discusses the amicable departure of guitarist, Ryan Granger, who is half of the gritty two-piece outfit, The Grizzled Mighty. The second half of the interview features a conversation with Ryan about the formation of The Grizzled Mighty. Granger, along with drummer Whitney Petty, are in New York this week, participating in the Rockstar Motel / CMJ showcase. After their gig in New York, the band returns to Seattle to play Neumos this Saturday, October 20 at 10:00pm, for City Arts Fest 2012. (For SMI Radio show run times, scroll down below.)

SMI Radio features an Xtra special episode in addition to this week's regular Podcasts. SMI Radio's Greg Roth speaks with Bananarama’s Karen Woodward and Sara Dalin via Skype, prior to their Seattle show that took place this past Saturday at The Hard Rock Cafe in Seattle. The interview covers the bands origins, history, as well as their recent performance at the London Olympics. Woodward and Dalin also discuss their U.S. PINKOCTOBER Tour. In addition you will hear some selected tracks the highest charting female singing group in UK history.

This week’s episode of SMI Radio features in-depth conversations with Lomolo’s Meagan Grandall and Kendra Cox, and tracks from their most recent effort, The Kaleidescope, released this past June). With the landmark Hurricane Cafe as a backdrop, the duo discusses friendship, musical partnership, influences, and more. (For SMI Radio show run times, scroll down below.)

This week’s episode features interesting conversation and music from a couple of brilliant Northwest acts. First, there’s the dynamic duo of Impossible Bird, consisting of Nick Drummond on guitar and vocals and Tyler Carson on fiddle. Drummond’s beautiful tenor, coupled with Carson’s sonically exquisite violin, create incredible soundscapes. After their wonderful performance at Northwest LoveFest, they talked about their music, their influences, and how they came up with their unique sound and name. Impossible Bird will be performing Thursday, October 4th, at the Oliver Franklin CD Release Show at OM Culture, as well as October 6th and 7th at the Seattle Fusion Festival. Eclectic Approach had a huge week. They performed in front of a national television audience this past Monday (10/1) on Jimmy Kimmel Live. This Seattle outfit fuses funk, pop, rock, and hip hop to create a very musically diverse musical stew.The group’s frontman Jowed Hadeed and guitarist Ryan Jander discuss their unique, fun, and funky sound. Jordan Dettmer from Protosong.com also stops by. Protosong brings music fans an exclusive playlist of unreleased songs from stellar independent Seattle artists over a two week period – and it’s for an equally stellar cause. Jordan tells how the project came about, who is involved, and the impact they hope to make. Get more details at the link below.

In 1979, former Mott The Hoople frontman, Ian Hunter, released the critically acclaimed LP, You’re Never Alone with a Schizophrenic. One of the peppiest and snappiest tracks on the record was an ode to the current home of the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland, and legendary rock n’ roll Hall of Famer and DJ, Alan Freed. Cleveland Rocks eventually became the theme song for the very popular sitcom, The Drew Carey Show. The version that appeared at the beginning of the show was performed by Seattle’s own Presidents of The United States of America, fronted by Chris Ballew. In 2008, Drew Carey became part owner of the Seattle’s Sounders Football Club, and regularly travels to Seattle for matches. This makes a very unique Seattle music trifecta indeed. This week’s episode features two-thirds of this unique trio, connected through the power of music and soccer, starting with Ian Hunter. Ian was recently in town to play Bumbershot 2012. He, along with his Rant Band, put on a brilliant twilight performance under the Space Needle. (See Photo Slideshow below.) He talks about everything from working with David Bowie, his love of American Rock n Roll and historical pop icons, as well as a special benefit show he’s working on in Cleveland. Check out the classic Mott The Hoople and Ian Hunter tracks, as well as his new single, When I’m President. (Hmm… perhaps another indirect tie in to Chris or probably just pure irony!) Next, there’s Chris Ballew. I caught up with him this past summer at Northwest LoveFest, where he was performing as Casper Babypants. Some would say that his newest project has surpassed the popularity of The Presidents. (At least his target audience of toddlers and young children think so.) Chris and I talked about the distinctions of performing with POTUSA vs. Casper Babypants – and he hear some classic POTUSA tracks.

Cody Beebe returns to SMI Radio with the lowdown on a new music festival. Cody Beebe and the Crooks perform this weekend, September 21 – 23, at the first annual Chinook Music Festival. He and a host of others have put together the festival, featuring 20 artists. (The full lineup is here.) Not only does Cody reveal what goes into creating a festival of this scale, he also has the low-down on some changes within his own band and a new record. KOMO News Radio personality and SMI Managing Editor Jennifer Austin drops in with the deets on the first annual Sirens – Sing Out for Women and Girls. Jennifer is hosting the show this Saturday night at the Hard Rock Cafe - which features a stellar lineup of artists, including The Juliettes, Stacy Jones Band, Kim Archer, and more. This event not only spotlights tremendously talented women, but also benefits the Women’s Funding Alliance – supporting progressive change for women and girls in the Seattle community. Blake Noble also stops by to talk about his role in the Seattle Living Room Shows this past August. Blake came to the U.S. from the “Land Down Under” within the last year, and is already winning over fans with his brilliant guitar work. Check out the tracks from Blake’s most recent release, Music For The End of The World. It’s a full plate of northwest music, news, and events – all in one place!