Tasty Brew Music

To the best of my knowledge, Kris Schultz is the second“merch slinger” I've met that went on to pursue a lyrical life as a troubadour in her own right.  My first experience was with Texas songwriter Kayla Ray as she first visited KC slinging merch for Jason Eady.  I love Kris' trajectory…. check this out.  Growing up in Topeka, Kansas, Kris was obsessed at an early age with the country songs of heartbreak and loss on the jukebox at a bar she visited regularly with her parents.  At an early age, she showed promise in several sports, especially the field part of track and field eventually accepted a scholarship to throw Javelin at Kansas State University, where she majored in Radio/Television Journalism.  While competing in the Texas Relays during her college career, she fell in love with Austin, TX.  And soon moved there with only a box of books & CDs, a small stereo, and a bag of clothes.  She walked into the city-ran Austin Music Network TV channel, asked for an internship, and soon was spending her days proof-checking videos of local music and taking in every note. But she still hadn't thought of playing music herself. After years assisting musicians as merch slinger, roadmanager and van driver, but never playing or singing herself, Kris eventually  acquired a guitar and began writing songs.She released her full-length album, Standard Issue Heart, inOctober 2021, has played such legendary venues as The Saxon Pub and Cactus Café in Texas, toured in the Midwest, Southwest and Southeastern US, has been featured in the live performance series “Songs In Places.”  Kris recently found herself in the Heartland and we connected to make an appearance on the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show happen.   Enjoy this performance and conversation with Austin transplant Kris Schultz.  Tasty Brew Music Radio Show "Showcasing the best of Americana/Roots Music in andfrom the Heartland!”Fridays 10 AM to Noon CST on 90.1FM KKFI Kansas CityCommunity Radio !!Since 2010, spinning a “tasty brew” of Americana/Bluegrass/Country/Roots Music… empowering the art of the song! "How can I listen?"Kansas City turn your radio dial to 90.1FM every Friday from 10 am to NoonAround the world use your cellphone or computer to go to www.kkfi.org and click the red "Live" button on the top left of the screen every Friday from 10 am til Noon Central Standard Time Missed it live? Or want to listen again? go to archive.kkfi.org to listen for up to 2 weeks from the date the episode aired! KKFI has a mobile app!? Download the app to listen live and see the current playlist, listen to replays, and see the entire show calendar including bios for each show & DJ. Tasty Brew Music with DJ Diana LinnFridays 10 am - Noon CST on90.1FM KKFI Kansas City Community Radio https://kkfi.org/program/tasty-brew/https://kkfi.org/program/tasty-brew/#tastybrewmusic #americanamusic #songwriter #rootsmusic #austinmusic

Cameron Keeling, one of the hardest working and accomplished musicians from the Heartland, learned to play and write songs around his hometown Kansas City MO.  He toured with bluegrass band Grassfed for 5-years, releasing 2 studio albums.  You can catch him these holding down the low end on the upright bass as well as singing and writing with the band Front Porch.  Cameron and his RunawayTrain bandmate Cory Clark recently came into the Tasty Brew to share stories behind and spin some tunes ("Off My Mind," "Ready to Go" and "Haystack") from the Runaway Train's new 2025 CD “Kill Creek.”  Enjoy my conversation with and selected selections fromCameron Keeling and the Runaway Train's Kill Creek available on all the major streaming platforms and from the band at one of their many shows throughout the country during this summer 2025 festival  season.  For all things for a busy and prolific Cameron Keeling… check out https://cameronkeelingmusic.com.

In this episode of the Tasty Brew Music Podcast, I welcome Terra Spencer, a gifted songwriter from Windsor, Nova Scotia. Howard Dolginoff, presenter of the Labyrinth House Concert Series, was kind enough to make the introduction and bring Terra into the KKFI studios prior to her run of shows in the Heartland. Ron Sexsmith shares: Raised on the mud banks of the Avon River, award-winning Nova Scotian funeral director-turned-songwriter Terra Spencer charms audiences with her deft guitar, gospel piano, butterscotch voice, crackling wit, and wood-paneled warmth. Her startlingly intimate songs have caught the eye of collaborators including David Francey, Ben Caplan, and Matt Andersen. Every show is a knee-to-knee conversation with a natural storyteller. “The real deal.”  Terra blends folk, country and soul in a way that feels both timeless and personal that has garnered her a devoted following. Terra shares a performance with us here and we have a conversation about her journey from funeral director to troubadour, the stories behind her lyrics and what inspires her songwriting. So sit back...relax...and enjoy this offering of the Tasty Brew with Terra Spencer!

In this episode of the Tasty Brew Music Podcast,  I'm thrilled to bring you a conversation with a young artist from Lenexa, Kansas. His name is Max Cooper III — a young and incredibly gifted piano-playing songwriter with a unique sound that's already turning heads here in the Heartland. Max blends heartfelt lyrics with intricate melodies, creating music that resonates deeply with listeners of all kinds.In today's episode which I believe came from Max's firstever appearance on the radio, we'll talk about his young journey pursuing his dreams in the music world, the creative process behind his songwriting, and what he's done so far to carve out his place in an ever-evolving industry.I am always humbled and a little nervous to host someone fortheir first radio appearance.  I want it to be a good experience for the artist as we both hone our respectiveinterviewing and performance chops.So, sit back, relax, and join us for this inspiring debut radio conversation and performance with Max Cooper III.#community radio #tastybrewmusic #maxcooperIII #piano #songwriter

Abbie Gardner is a renowned dobro player, solo artist, and a key member of the acclaimed Americana trio, Red Molly. With her exceptional mastery of the dobro, her soulful voice, and her masterful storytelling, Abbie has earned a place as one of the most respected artists in the Americana and roots music scene. Abbie has performed at major music festivals and conferences. These performances have solidified her reputation as a captivating live performer, known for her musical depth and ability to connect with audiences.Her solo work has garnered critical acclaim. She has also received multiple nominations for her instrumental and vocal work, further cementing her as a standout artist. Abbie has a Kansas City connection… her in-laws live here and she finds herself in our town from time to time.  Not too long ago, Abbie dropped in at the Heartland Song Network's monthly Song Sanctuary at PH Coffee.   What a treat that was! Join us as Abbie and her amazing music and life partner Craig Akin on bass grace us with this musical conversation and performance for the Tasty Brew! 

You'll hear my origin story with Missouri's native son Jack Summers in this episode of the Tasty Brew Music podcast… a story with a familiar path.  My introduction comes by way of plugged in Heartland music tastemaker Mike Paget of the Green Guitar Folk House Series. As a Boomer and lifelong lover of the craft of songwriting, my pantheon includes John Prine, Neil Young and Bob Dylan, of course.  Although sonically the comparisons may seem appropriate, the lyrical content and points of interest in Jack's songs are unique to him while being very relatable.  Ironically, unlike most members of his 20-something/Millennial/Gen Z generation Jack foregoes a robust online presence but for Instagram and his website jacksummersmusic.com.  It can be a bit of challenge to find him on the internet.   Jack is putting in the work.  Generally a sole practitioner, he has dabbled in collabs and as a Kerrville Music Festival songwriting competition winner, he takes the lyrical life seriously.  With the support and guidance from his family and song farmers like Mary Gauthier, the desire to create is there and I believe his aim to be true.  Enjoy this late Fall 2024 conversation and musical performance.  Good stuff from Weston, Missouri's Jack Summers. 

Deanna Ray Eberhart Von Fange – what a regal sounding moniker!  Deanna Ray, her “roots” music name, barely in her mid-20's, presents as a fully mature artist.  I was introduced to Deanna a couple of years ago by my colleague, and accomplished songwriter in her own right, Julie Bennett Hume.  Deanna was still in college pursuing a double masters in vocal performance and Choral Church Music at the University of Kansas. In addition to her own studies, Deanna has been teaching music to students ages 8-14 including voice, guitar, ukelele and basic piano. I have witnessed the power of her operatic voice; she is truly a gifted force of nature that most assuredly has a long and accomplished career ahead of her in whatever genre she pursues.  It has been an honor and privilege to get a glimpse into a musical world that is as organic as it is cerebral.  It is a  pleasure to give space and airtime to an emerging Heartland artist as talented as Deanna.  Enjoy this conversation and beautifully nuanced performance of original music from Deanna Ray.  

#americanamusic #rootsmusic #tastybrewmusic Memories can be tricky…especially when you attain a certain vintage. While preparing this episode, I was hard pressed to remember the first time I met guitarist singer songwriter Chris Hudson and heard his indie Americana folk project…Gullywasher. Chris says we met on my show around 2018 when I was still holding down the Tuesday morning 6 am to 8 am slot. In the intervening years, I've lost count of the times I've enjoyed whatever iteration Gullywasher is in and was most pleased to finally capture Chris and bandmate Sam Wright on banjo and vocals for this episode. Gullywasher, purveyors of indie, Americana and folk music, was founded in 2017 by guitarist,singer, songwriter Chris Hudson. The core trio includes Sam Wright on banjo and vocals and Matt Cathlina on the upright bass and vocals. In this episode Chris and Sam share insights and selections from the latest Gullywasher project… Rustbelt Revelations Part 1… released in October 2024…six songs from a working class upbringing currently navigating a social media age that features surveillance capitalism, bitter political division and environmental concerns. Contributing artists include Tasty Brew Favorites: Brandon Day on Cello Special vocal performances by Beth Watts Nelson and Kristin Hamilton Marco Pascolini on pedal steel and Jaisson Taylor on percussion. Rust Belt Revelations Part 2 is scheduled for release in 2025. Enjoy this conversation with musical interludes from Chris Hudson and Sam Wright from Kansas City's own Gullywasher.

There is the classic movie or theater story line where the understudy of a lead role, or the staff employee at a company, gets the opportunity to assume the helm and shine.  This episode's guest, Jennifer Roe, is a living/breathing example of that life changing opportunity. Over the years, Roe fulfilled many supporting roles at Folk Alliance International, an international arts non profit and NEA designated national arts service organization based in Kansas City, Missouri.  She even served as Interim Director twice and when circumstances placed FAI in need, the governing body wisely, in my opinion, did the right thing and with Jennifer's concurrence, installed her officially as Executive Director. I've been a member Of FAI since 2010 or so.  It is a community of artists, managers, agents, DJs, festivals, record labels, fans, and more… striving to keep the tradition of folk, roots and indigenous music thriving through preservation, presentation and promotion.   The 37th Annual FAI conference with the theme “Illuminate” is scheduled for February 2025 in Montreal.  Enjoy this conversation with Jennifer Roe, Executive Director of Folk Alliance International.

As has happened quite often in the past 10 years or so, my curation of private showcase rooms at the Folk Alliance International Conference has yielded connections that provide continuing collaborations and opportunities for engagement.  Case in point… Chrislyn Lawrence and Mike “Mac” McClure also now known as the musical duo “Crow and Gazelle.”  Booking the duo at the 2002 Conference and subsequently for other listening room series in the Heartland has brought another welcome addition to my so called “Americana/Roots Music” family.  Mike McClure made his name as one of the founders of the Oklahoma Red Dirt Music Scene and producer of such Tasty  Brew Music favorites as the Turnpike Troubadours and Cross Canadian Ragweed.  Chrislyn, worked behind the scenes of that music world in supporting roles, including as a booking agent.  Circumstances kept them from pursuing a connection when they first met in 2003, but fate intervened and they've been professionally and personally a team since 2018. Their mission is to deconstruct the idea of separateness… that we humans are not separate from divinity… we are holy, everything and infinite. Enjoy this on air conversation with Crow and Gazelle in support of a Heartland appearance for the Green Guitar Folk House Listening Room Series.

Although it has been decades, I DO remember how challenging and isolating it can be to move away during your 20's from your hometown to accompany and support a spouse that is pursuing a promising job opportunity.  Arkansas Native and Singer/Songwriter Cory Jackson did just that to support his spouse.  I was only too happy to help introduce him to the Heartland's music scene when a mutual acquaintance asked me to do so.  Since that request in 2023, it has been my privilege to welcome Cory to the KKFI airwaves and to showcase him as a Heartland Song Network Artist of the Month. Cory works to bridge the gap between modern country music and the classic sounds of the past with his contemporary compositions and storytelling.  Born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Cory's rural upbringing deeply influences his music. Introduced to the guitar by his grandfather at 16, Cory began learning cover songs, which led to mastering a few chords and eventually trying his hand at songwriting. Fueled by dreams of a big-stage career that filled his thoughts during bus rides home from school, Cory quickly gained recognition for his talent. He released his first EP in 2015, followed by a series of singles available across all streaming platforms.  He has won independent artist competitions and earned the Arkansas Country Music Association's "Country Artist of the Year" award in 2018.  Cory experienced a three-chair turn on NBC's The Voice in 2019, joining Team Blake and further refining his craft under Blake Shelton's mentorship. Cory values connection with his audience, staying true to his roots while pushing the boundaries of country music. Whether performing intimate acoustic sets like this one in our community radio studio or commanding large stages at festivals and other music venues, Cory has the ability to resonate with fans through heartfelt music.  Enjoy this conversation and musical performance from Country artist Cory Jackson.

Kate McDonnell has captivated audiences all over the world with her award-winning songwriting, her unusual upside down and backwards guitar style, and her crystalline voice.  Kate was in the Heartland for a couple of shows in 2024 including Howard Dolginoff's Labyrinth House Concert Series.  She was kind enough to come onto my radio show during a Pledge Drive to help me raise money for community radio.  Kate comes from generations of musicians on both sides: her maternal grandfather (trumpet) and great grandfather (trombone and viola) performed with the National and Baltimore Symphonies. Kate's father sang in operettas in his younger years, and her mother continues to play anything she can hear on the piano in F#, just as her own mother did. All three of Kate's siblings have the musical gift.  Armed with her unusual guitar style and soprano voice, Kate teamed with her twin sister to perform around their Baltimore hometown during their high school and college years. After a four-year sabbatical from performance in the mid-80s, Kate returned to music by partnering with guitarist Freddie Tane, at one time a member of Bill Haley's Comets.  That duo cut two self-released albums during their collaboration and opened shows for touring stars such as Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and Judy Collins.  In 1989, Kate started writing her own songs and began racking up serious critical recognition like being named a New Folk Finalist at the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas and a finalist at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival Showcase in New York State.  Kate's latest work, “Trapeze” introduced here on the Tasty Brew was released in September 2024.  Enjoy this conversation and in studio performance with New York's Kate McDonnell. 

I am honored to be on Radio Promotor Angela Backstrom's contact list for new music being released by the amazing cadre of Americana/Roots Artists she represents.  Angela reached out to me to arrange a phone interview to highlight Kiely Connell's appearance at Kansas City's  recordBar venue in support of her amazing sophomore record “My Own Company.”  I went down the rabbit hole, as I so often do in preparation for this conversation.   I was entranced by Kiely's voice, her affinity for some of my personal favorites like Courtney Marie Andres and Patsy Cline, and her totally relatable lyricism.    Kiely Connell is a Nashville-based, rustbelt-born Country singer who has widened her musical horizons by recording My Own Company in Portland, Oregon with producer Tucker Martine (Roseanne Cash, Courtney Barnett, Madison Cunningham).   It is a gritty and generous display of heartbreakingly honest lyricism, powerhouse vocals, and a deep-dive into recovering after heartbreak, staring down the barrel of depression, and coming out the other side…to choose oneself. Instrumental backing provided from bassist Nate Query (the Decembrists), drummer Andrew Borger (Tom Waits, Norah Jones) and long term musical companion and guitarist Drew Kohl.   In Connell's own words, “It's about a love that you work so hard on that doesn't work out in the end, so you ultimately end up working on yourself. You learn that the most important relationship is the one you have with yourself.” Enjoy this conversation with Nashville's Kiely Connell. 

Savanna, daughter of the Heartland's Flint Hills, returns to share with me new music making its radio debut on my turn as host of MidCoast Live! On KKFI…a weekly live performance radio show that welcomes all genres of music and spoken word performance.  On this episode you will hear these new bona fide country music selections: L-O-V-E Same Beer, Different Day Honky Tonk Heartbreaker Trailer No.3 In our latest conversation, we re-visit how I first discovered Savanna's songcraft.   It is alive with visual imagery indigenous to the Heartland and illustrative of a path a young generative artist like Savanna navigates every day in an industry…in a world not always kind or supportive of a woman flying solo or fronting a band. Her love for performing started in her grandparent's “Sodie Bar” on karaoke night when she was a little girl and has since taken her all across the country. From dive bars, fairs, festivals and rodeos, to season 20 of The Voice on NBC where she was chosen by Blake Shelton, Savanna has won over audiences with her unique, yet nostalgic country style.  Savanna has won multiple songwriting contests and has been nominated 4 times for Female Vocalist of the Year at the Rocky Mountain Country music awards. She has shared the stage with acts such as Gary Allan, Sara Evans, Justin Moore, Eli Young Band, Reckless Kelly, Granger Smith, Tanya Tucker, Jason Boland, Ned Ledoux and many others. She has 3 studio albums of original music available on all streaming platforms.  To quote Savanna "Country music has always been my shoulder to lean on, no matter what. I can always relate to it, and always rely on it. That's how I want my songs to be for others. Just honest, genuine, country music." Enjoy my conversation with and musical performance by Savanna Chestnut!            

Zachary Scott Kline came into my consciousness thanks to an email from Nashville songwriter, Henry Conlon, a former guest on my Tasty Brew Music Radio Show and Podcast.  Zachary's power trio that included Ray Akers on bass and Sam Hatfield on drums was coming to the Heartland including playing a show in Lawrence.  It was a great honor to host what I believe to be Zachary's debut radio interview and performance.   Zachary found his way to Americana via competitive football and the San Francisco punk scene.  Apparently there is an inside joke that when they turn 30, punk rockers put a cowboy hat on and mutate into something completely different.  Really?  I duly note Zachary counts John Prine, Blaze Foley, Ryan Bingham, David Ramirez and Jason Isbell as strong influences.   Well done.   I find Zachary's songcrafting sincere and his lyricism and turn of phrase compelling.  Zachary…keep working on that website...the music loving public at large needs to find you with ease.    Enjoy the debut radio performance and interview of Zachary Scott Kline.

I love hosting songwriters on the radio and when it is an artist I have a personal kinship and history with…even better.  I was introduced to Jesse Harris and the Gypsy Sparrows shortly after I started my broadcast career in 2010.  The Sparrows were a hard driving, good time honky tonk/outlaw country/red dirt band for ten years. Jesse took a break when his son Jack was born and has been helping to support a growing family and successful landscaping business for the last 7or 8 years. As you will hear in this conversation during a recent appearance on KKFI's MidCoast Live Radio Show, Jesse and I share some great memories and from the sound of what's in the hopper, great new musical memories are to be made with his new project…  Jesse Thomas Harris and the Murder of Crows.  I loved learning Jesse caught the music bug as a teenager listening to the blues at KC's landmark Blues institution…BB's Lawnside BBQ.   My main take away was that Jesse plans to stay close to home and nurture and share his musical chops right here in the Heartland.  Welcome back my friend!  Enjoy this spirited and engaging in studio conversation and performance with Kansas City's own Jesse Thomas Harris.

Like so many musical discoveries in my Tasty Brew orbit, Heather Pierson came to my attention from Mike Paget, Director behind the Green Guitar Folk House Music Series in Lenexa, Kansas.  He discovered Heather's talent at her official showcase during a past Folk Alliance International Conference in Kansas City and brought her back to the Heartland as she was touring through the area.  You'll hear us mention another Heartland music series I've heard stellar reviews about hosted at The Bixler 108 in Unionville, Missouri.  It is so important that stops like the Bixler become available to those trying to lead a lyrical life as they try to connect the dots between major markets like St. Louis and Dallas or west to Denver.  Born to a Scottish émigré mother and Navy veteran machinist father in Joplin, Missouri, Heather started out life in the single-traffic-light town of Galena, Kansas.  Music was constantly spilling out of the speakers of her parents' stereo – a diverse playlist that included such artists as The Allman Brothers, Kansas, Cream, The Beatles, KISS, Cat Stevens, Mario Lanza, Jose Feliciano and Anne Murray.   This diversity served to open Heather's young mind to the rich and varied language of music and to lay the foundation for her future endeavors and experimentations. Heather is now based in New Hampshire's White Mountains…. a singer/songwriter, pianist, song leader, and performer with a passion for cultivating joy, both onstage and off.  With a toe in each of the realms of New Orleans jazz, blues, vocal chants, instrumental piano, and folk, her multi-genre songwriting places her firmly in a category all her own, one honed by decades of diligent practice and curious exploration.  Whether solo, as a duo, with her trio, or in a community sing, Heather's live performances feature her bell-tone vocals, ease at the piano, and are infused with happiness, honest self-reflection, and a genuine desire to connect and share from the heart.  In over twenty years on her own record label, Vessel Recordings, she has released fifteen albums and several singles of original music.  Her forthcoming sixteenth studio album, Back To The Light, is her most vibrant release yet.  It is slated for a September 2024 release, and it was recorded ‘live on the floor' at Acadia Recording Company in Portland, ME with her trio mates Shawn Nadeau on bass (Shawn joins us in the studio for this conversation) and Craig Bryan on drums and percussion.  I just know you're going to dig the seemingly effortless vocal and instrumental offerings from Heather Pierson and Shawn Nadeau during a mid-morning stint on the radio in the Heartland…. Enjoy!

I met Gracie Caggiano when she participated in one of the very first monthly Songwriters' Sanctuary events presented by the Heartland Song Network at PH Coffee in Kansas City.  I was impressed not only with her songwriting and vocal ability, but her steadfastness in dealing with the physical barriers presented to an artist living with muscular dystrophy confined to a wheelchair.  When I learned she had not yet been on the radio, I knew I had to make that happen and welcomed her to the airwaves in early June 2024. As you will learn in our conversation, In the spring of 2023, Gracie earned a Master of Music in Composition at the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory, have previously earned a Bachelor of Music in Composition in 2021 from Florida's Stetson University.    In her current work, she explores the significance of disability in her own lived experience embracing both her popular music background and classical training. ​ In 2019, Gracie placed third runner-up in a Competition for Student Composers for her choral work The sun kept setting. In spring 2022 at UMKC, she was selected for a composition residency with the university's Graduate Fellowship String Quartet. The Lyric Opera of Kansas City performed her new micro-opera “Becoming” in June 2023. Later that year, Gracie invited listeners into her poetic space with "To Love Is to Be Honest" and "Don't Look at Me That Way" in anticipation of her debut album “I can't be anything but human” (released May 10, 2024).  You will hear selections from that ep, made possible by a grant and recorded at UMKC.  Enjoy this conversation and the debut radio performance by Gracie Caggiano.

What does a Florence, Italy transplant in Austin, Texas have in common with a community radio dj in Kansas City? Turns out a connection to the first man on the Moon, Neil Armstrong.  Listen to this episode of the Tasty Brew Music Podcast to learn the details.  A creative and prolific artist, Giulia has released a number of solo albums, touring nationally throughout the USA and internationally. An accomplished guitarist, Giulia also plays ukulele and sings in four languages. She has been called smart, pensive and cool credited with psychedelic grooveability whilst “baring her clairvoyant soul” to “deliver musical mojo.” I am in awe of female artists who travel the world solo… it is not for the faint of heart.  The dedication must be steadfast and the nerves of steel.  Millanta's newest record Only Luna Knows  and her cookbook ‘Dinner with Giulia” – Flavors, Songs and Stories of a Florentine Troubadour are available now! Enjoy my conversation with singer songwriter and lucid dreamer … Giulia Millanta. 

The final installment of the 2024 Folk Alliance International Conference Takeover of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show spotlights two musical and life partner duos… Liz and Nilko of New York City and Tipps and Obermiller of Fort Worth, Texas.  First up Liz and Nilko, a New York City based “Latin Americana” duo combining and celebrating the music of their backgrounds… Appalachia and the Andes Mountains.   LIZ CHIDESTER is a critically acclaimed and award winning Americana singer/songwriter, actor, teaching artist, and ukulelist.  Since his 2009 Carnegie Hall solo debut, multi-faceted touring artist Nilko Andreas has been performing for audiences on three continents as an internationally awarded classical guitarist, Composer, Actor, Music Director and singer. The goal is to have their harmonies contribute to the healing of the Americas. They have performed at different festivals around the US including the Folk Alliance International Festival in Kansas City, NJ Uke Fest, and the Lavender Festival in Charlottesville, VA. When Hilary Tipps and Steve Obermiller met, it took no time at all for these Fort Worth, Texas songwriters to fall in love and start their lives together. It took another decade of trying to create life, deal with death and build careers in teaching and nursing before they wrote their first songs together. Now they are fully invested in their passion for songwriting and performing. They bring a connection of energy and charm unique to a couple dedicated to each other, their music and their audience. Enjoy these conversations and musical interludes with Liz & Nilko and Tipps and Obermiller.

Collaboration and networking are instrumental in whatever success I enjoyed in my former corporate work life and now in my post career volunteer world.  Nancy LaBerge of Calgary's “Backyard Betties” was introduced to me via email by Linda Wilson, a former radio colleague….giving me the heads up Nancy and her group would be coming to Kansas City for the 2024 Folk Alliance International Conference.  Might there be any broadcast or performance opportunities for the Backyard Betties on the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show?  Of course.  I soon came to know that Nancy, through her affiliation with the Calgary Songsmiths, had already come into my orbit through a songwriting collaboration exercise with our local Heartland Song Network members borne from a prior year's introduction at Folk Alliance. Joining Nancy LaBerge in three-part harmonies are Pip Hazel and Sarah Nielson on percussion with Mark Cassano on guitar.  The Backyard Betties are exceptionally talented with a strong commitment to connecting with their audiences through songs of love, life and loss while fostering the growth of emerging songwriters in their community.  Colin Cutler, an Army Vet, is a Greensboro, North Carolina-based singer-songwriter, folk musician, poet, and storyteller toting a banjo and guitar. Whether solo or with his band, Hot Pepper Jam, he is a wide-ranging performer whose musical roots draw from the breadth of American folk music—from Appalachian oldtime to blues to gospel to country to rock'n'roll—to form what No Depression has described as “one magnificent tapestry of roots music.”. In the course of curating a private showcase for a Folk Alliance International Conference, it becomes quite daunting to make decisions with so very many talented artists making submissions.  Colin Cutler made the decision easier for me to choose him when his bio revealed his latest work “Tarwater” was based upon the work of Georgia author Flannery O'Connor.  That was enough of a hook to send me down the rabbit hole of his background and discography.  Enjoy my conversations with and in studio performance by Backyard Betties and Colin Cutler.

It always lovely to welcome Montreal's Genevieve Racette back to the KKFI studios whenever she can make it to Kansas City; this visit was facilitated by Genevieve's attendance at the 2024 Folk Alliance International Conference.  Please excuse some background construction noise that may be discernible while she and I are having our conversation…Both the street in front of the station and our building itself is under some serious reconstruction to accommodate a street car line extension and new tenants. As a woman in the music industry, Genevieve prioritizes surrounding herself with like-minded women-identifying individuals, taking pride in the fact over 80% of her team consists of woman-identifying musicians and industry members.  She has showcased at prestigious music events such as Folk Alliance, Folk Music Ontario. Americanafest, Canadian Music Week and more.   Her fourth record, “Golden” is set to be released this Fall. Next up in the Folk Alliance 2024 Takeover… Arizona's Remi Goode is a trained classical guitarist and choral singer turned alternative folk/pop singer-songwriter. When she first decided to put her voice and guitar together and write original music, she quickly developed a style that highlights her careful classical sensibilities, pure vocal quality, and the distinctive sound of a nylon-string guitar. With an affinity for small arrangements and modest production, Remi's highest priority is lyricism. She writes with blunt honesty and introspection, searching for the root of the dynamics within a relationship or a deeper understanding of her own self-conception. Although Remi's analysis of herself and others is often unforgiving, her songs always contain a qualifying aspect of emotional ambiguity—an expression of both grief and acceptance at having to navigate a world that isn't black or white.    Enjoy  these conversations and performances in Episode 1 of the Folk Alliance 2024 Take Over of the Tasty Brew Music Podcast.

Originally from the mountain state of West Virginia, Eades began making music at the age of 12, when out of boredom her father handed her a 1950's Gibson that had been stored away, waiting for someone to play.   It wasn't long before she began writing songs, recording her first album at age 17 as part of the duo Special Guest.  After a more than decade-long hiatus from music, Eades began playing music again after moving to Kansas City and began her solo career in 2015.   Her music is genuine, and shares bits of her story, drawing from experiences that many find relatable.  Influenced by the strong female singer-songwriters she listened to growing up, including Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Jewel, she followed their lead and added her own tinges of twang, angst, and blues. I am a fan of her versatility and fluidity between genres and it is always a pleasure just to have a regular conversation with her on any number of given topics.  Erin has played out in public somewhat sparingly since the pandemic but as you'll hear on this recent visit to the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show, Erin recently released some new music after nearly a 5-year hiatus of publishing any new work and is ramping up her in person footprint to promote the new music that is coming.  It was an honor to air the radio broadcast debut of her new song “Lesser of Two Evils.” Enjoy my conversation with Erin Eades! 

I am so honored when a friend and artist such as songwriter Kelly Hunt recommends a fellow musician to me for consideration.  In the case of songwriter and fellow Buckeye Ben Gage, she could not have been more spot on with her recommendation.    As you will  hear in this conversation and performance on a recent Tasty Brew Music Radio Show, Ben sounded totally at ease and seemingly is a rather comfortable space in his lyrical life.  A couple of corrections to note in my on air comments. The Folk Alliance International Conference for 2025 will be in Montreal not Toronto and although its true Travis Kelce played college ball at the University of Cincinnati, he is in fact from Cleveland.   I love how Ben blends folk and roots blues. I understand how he grew up in the rust belt of Northeast Ohio along the great Lake Erie with roots running  deep alongside hard working Ohio blue collars. His tenacity, love of family, and respect for a long day can be heard in his music.  He now travels the country full time sharing and collecting stories and songs.  Enjoy this episode of the Tasty Brew Music Podcast and be sure and check out Ben's work and schedule at https://www.bengagemusic.com/  

I met Emma Jo via other songwriting friends in Kansas City and it has been interesting, even instructive, to witness her evolution as a young woman who follows a lyrical life. Raised in Kansas City by a mother who loved country music and a father who breathed rock & roll, Emma Jo has spent the better part of her life latching onto a deep-rooted passion for music and performing. From stealing the spotlight at age four during a local talent show, to learning guitar on an Esteban purchased from an infomercial, to releasing a full-length acoustic album titled Waiting to Be Heard at fifteen, there has not been a moment when she wasn't living and breathing melody.  I was gratified to learn in this conversation that Emma Jo loves is committed to living and creating here in America's Heartland.  I knew when I first heard her newest record, “Girl Bandit” I wanted to have her on the radio for a more robust conversation than what I could grab in between or after a set at a local gig.  Ultimately, Girl Bandit is a record that was destined to be written. It serves as not only as documentation of one woman's search for strength in dark times and her eventual triumph, but as an emotional support record for life changes.   Emma Jo says “I've dealt with loss and trauma and pain, just like everyone. Girl Bandit is a record about how I discovered I was living the wrong life, grappled with that, and made the decision to change it – and it's a call to action to take the first step out of darkness.” I have the privilege of hosting shows on community radio that permits me to play the songs and talk to whomever I want. I take into consideration what may be of interest and entertaining to my listening audience.  I am grateful for the opportunity to memorialize these experiences for the Tasty Brew Music podcast.  Enjoy this conversation and in studio live performance from the Heartland's own Emma Jo.  

In the Fall of 2023, a contingent of folk and jazz artists from Frutilla, Chile (fru-tee-ya Chill-ay) came to Kansas City as part of a cultural exchange facilitated by The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and their Creative Cities Network.  The Network was created in 2004 to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. Almost 300 cities around the world which currently make up this network work together towards a common objective: placing creativity and cultural industries at the heart of their development plans at the local level and cooperating actively at the international level.  To date, Kansas City is the ONLY US City with the UNESCO Creative Cities designation. Martina performing as Medicentuna and Daniela Conejero visited with me at the KKFI studios for a lively conversation  and enchanting on air performance.  Enjoy this unique and captivating episode of the Tasty Brew Music Podcast!

Alicia Stockman was in Kansas City to play an intimate house concert for the Labyrinth Listening Room Series curated and hosted by fellow music lover Howard Dolginoff.  I happened to be hosting Siren Song on 90.1 FM KKFI that same day and Howard brought Alicia to the studios so we could have a chat and share some tunes with our listeners who were not able to make it to the show. Alicia is a Utah-based folk meets Americana Singer Songwriter whose songs are written like intimate moments that draw listeners into a relatable emotional journey.  You'll hear that her musical start was in a loud rock and roll band playing cover songs in bars with sticky floors; she eventually broke away to perform her own songs, finding a home in the Americana scene.   Her work sparked the interest of “Nashville's Americana Queen, and former Tasty Brew Music Podcast guest, Mary Bragg, who began collaborating with and producing Alicia's album, “Four Walls.”  Enjoy this on air conversation with and musical performance by Alicia Stockman.  

I've been fortunate to see Sarah Lee Guthrie perform on multiple occasions with her family at the annual Woody Guthrie Festival aka Woody fest in Woody's hometown of Okemah, Oklahoma.  The very first song I remember learning to sing outside of church hymns was Woody's This Land is Your Land in grade school choir back in the late 1950's.  When contacted recently by Sarah Lee's management to gauge any interest in an interview prior to an upcoming Sarah Lee Trio gig in the Kansas City area, I jumped at the chance.  I personally find it a challenge to prepare for a conversation with the descendant of a legacy artist like John Prine or Woody Guthrie; you want to be respectful of the legacy but not dwell on it to the exclusion or minimization of the talent of the artist you are speaking with… but I'm happy to say that most times it is a wonderful experience and Sarah Lee, in this instance, could not have been more gracious and forthcoming. Sarah Lee has been touring with her father Arlo Guthrie right up until he retired a couple of years ago.  She has had folks like Pete Seeger and Ramblin' Jack Elliott as grandparent figures in her life spending a good many of her Thanksgiving holidays playing Carnegie Hall as part of the annual folk gathering started by the Weavers decades ago. Though her lineage is undeniable, many are drawn to the clarity and soul behind Sarah Lee's voice.  As her website bio says, you'll be drawn to the gentle urgency of her interpretation of songs that flows from the continuity of her family, her vital artistic life and the river of songs that have guided her to where she stands how.  Enjoy this conversation with Sarah Lee Guthrie.    

I seem to be experiencing “full circle” type moments fast and furious these days. Case in point... a brief encounter at Americanafest years ago with radio promoter Angela Backstrom has yielded a now years' long association that not only brings me amazing music every week but affords me opportunities to talk to folks like Tommy Prine.  Angela sent an email casually mentioning Tommy was coming to Kansas City to play Knuckleheads...would I be interested in talking to him for my radio show?  Of course I would... I immediately began to obsess about how to honor the singular talent of Tommy's artistry without focusing on or making constant references to his father who occupies heroic and iconic status that transcends my Boomer generation's songwriting community.  The more I began to prepare for the conversation and let it be known it was going to happen, a good number of people who know or who have interacted with Tommy, reached out to allay my fears.  As you will hear, Tommy's head is on straight, his aim true and his talent is singular and unique to him.  Enjoy my conversation with young Master Prine.  

Rick Dodderidge is one of THE most dedicated music enthusiasts I've ever encountered in 70+ years on this planet. I kept running into Rick and his lovely friend Vicki at various events around Kansas City.  He co-hosts a monthly spot on Mike Lytle's Real Deal on KKFI where he shares his favorite music and accompanying stories such as you will hear in THIS conversation.  Rick, Vicki and I ended up on the same Ensemble Iberica patron's trip to Ireland in the Spring of 2023.  We shared some profound musical and cultural experiences there.  A conversation in Ireland led to Rick's appearance on the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show. As you'll hear, Rick literally will scale any logistical or economic wall to witness his favorite musical icons. He saw the Grateful Dead over 400 times.  He went $150,000 in credit card debt nearly 40 years ago to travel the world to see the likes of Genesis, The Dead and Gong.  He hasn't let up…most recently travelling to London for a Jeff Beck tribute and to our Great Northwest to see Joni Mitchell with Brandi Carlile.  Enjoy this out of body conversation with music lover extraordinaire...Rick Dodderidge.  

I love listening to my DJ Brother Scott Stanton's River Trade Radio Show on KKFI on Sunday Mornings.  Not too long ago I heard an amazing voice on his show that stopped me in my tracks.  It was Beth Watts Nelson also now known as Little Miss Dynamite from right here in the Heartland.  I knew I had to get to know her and have her on my radio show. I reached out to Beth right away; as a middle school teacher in the throes of finishing up her 20th year as a middle school choral director, it took a couple of months for us to find a date that worked with both of our schedules.  The following conversation is our initial meeting.  As you'll hear, Beth has been writing songs and singing most of her life with the support of her amazing family.  She has taken a huge leap of faith with her new project, the Notorious Chorus, a group vocal and harmony singing workshop for those who like to sing whether a beginner or seasoned professional.  And for the record, I did sign up for the inaugural group and at the recording of this episode we're nearly through our 4-week session.  I have never sung in public, except maybe the National Anthem and Happy Birthday, so this was a big leap for me.  I'm having a blast and Beth is a total pro! Enjoy my conversation and musical performance by Brandon Day on upright bass with Little Miss Dynamite, Beth Watts Nelson!

As I've stated before, one of the perks of hosting a radio show, is the ability to help a musical friend launch a new project into the ether.  I met the Reverend Jimmie Bratcher and his amazing wife Sherrie years ago at Knuckleheads Saloon in Kansas City.   I've been privileged to witness the hard work and devotion he pours into his music and his ministry. His work with the prison and the unhoused populations in this country is remarkable.  Like many young men of the Boomer generation, Jimmie's first guitar hero was Eric Clapton.  Early on, he played in bands that never quite took off “due to lack of professionalism and substance abuse.”  Eventually, he steadied the ship and with the recent release of his 13th album, “Far Enough,” the Reverend has assembled a stellar crew of players, technicians and vocal accompaniment that are respected and revered industry wide.  You HAVE to hear the stories behind the songs and the names of those involved in the production of the book and recordings of Far Enough… it reads like a who's who in American popular music.  It may be of interest to other creatives to hear how the Reverend has conducted his own research and formulated a strategy to tackle the business of music as well. Did he go Far Enough?  Time will tell.  Enjoy this conversation with my friend, the Reverend Jimmie Bratcher. 

Being in the music ecosystem provides loads of opportunity for serendipity.  Making a connection with newcomer songwriter Henry Conlon is a case in point.  A fellow KKFI colleague had been contacted by Conlon's team looking for on air opportunities in support of an opening slot Henry had at a recent Sundown Concert Series featuring Kansas City's own Casi Joy and Danielle Nicole.  I reached out to Henry offering a spot with the understanding it was a Pledge Drive Show and I would be asking him to assist in pitching for donations.  He was all in.   He began writing songs in high school playing coffee houses and the occasional open mic. As time went on, he began to grow a small but loyal fanbase in the northeast and eventually cut an album of original songs at Dirt Floor Records. Since releasing his first album, Henry has moved to Nashville where he has been writing and performing nearly every night of the week, embedding himself into the songwriter scene. Conlon has had a variety of cuts with artists such as Zachary Scott Kline and Madeline Finn. His song “Reckless Love” released by John Hollier in 2022, placed on the Americana Radio charts.  In May of 2022 he had the opportunity to open for Whitey Morgan and Jesse Daniel at the Bandit Town festival in Manor Texas and for Old Crow Medicine Show and Billy Joel as a part of the Greenwich Town Party, an annual festival in Greenwich Connecticut. Enjoy the conversation and in studio performance with Henry Conlon.  

International Folk Music Awards 2017 Artist of the Year Ordinary Elephant captivates audiences with their emotionally powerful and vulnerable songs, letting the listener know that they are not alone in this world. The collaboration of husband and wife Pete and Crystal Damore, their connection, and their influences such as Gillian Welch and Guy Clark all meet on stage. Crystal and Pete set aside the work they've done previously as a veterinary cardiologist and a computer programmer, respectively. The two met at an open mic in College Station, Texas, in 2009 and soon moved to Houston together. With her on acoustic guitar/lead vocals and him on clawhammer banjo/harmony vocals, they threw all caution to the wind and hit the road in an RV.   Ordinary Elephant's songwriting has won numerous awards and they regularly shine in showcases at Folk Alliance International conferences, music festivals, house concerts and workshops.  Crystal and Pete recently made their way to Kansas City for what of course was a stellar and very moving performance at the Green Guitar Folk House Series in Lenexa, Kansas.  I was able to grab a few moments with them on the radio as they were enroute to our fair city.  Enjoy my conversation with the extra extraordinary…. Crystal and Pete Damore... Ordinary Elephant!    

Billy Brady was given his nickname “Bluegrass” by his close family and friends.  He is a first generation musician born to a blue collar family that works construction.  He began playing guitar at 16 and his bluegrass roots started in the Ozarks one summer when he was working at a fish hatchery.  He played in a reggae band for a minute.  Travelling to festivals across the county, he settled on bluegrass as his musical voice.  Kansas City has become fertile ground for bluegrass and other roots genres of music. Billy recently joined me on the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show to share some details about opening up the concert season at Kansas City's Lemonade Park and what is shaping up to be a very busy summer festival season for the Whiskey Mash  Band.  Enjoy my conversation with musical interludes from Billy Brady, front man for the Whiskey Mash Band.

The email from Eli Lev came into my inbox like dozens of new music submissions do on any given day.  This one stood out a bit because the subject line referenced my radio show by name instead of something generic like “new music from singer/songwriter Eli Lev.”  The body of the email indicated that Eli had done some homework and was of the opinion his music would be a good fit for the show. It did not appear to be a completely “cut and paste” email.   I was impressed enough by the professionalism and personalization of the post to click through the entries of his submission.  He was correct…it appeared he was a good fit but still… the interactions we had to set up this appearance were timely and complete.  Eli's back story, as you will hear, is rather unique.  His professional career started as an educator in places like Arizona on an Indian reservation and a corporate trainer in exotic places like the little known country of Andorra in the Pyrenees mountains between Spain and France… his ability to transfer those organizational and professional level skill sets is serving him well as he leads a lyrical life on the road as a troubadour.  Enjoy my first in what I hope to be an ongoing set of conversations with Eli Lev.  

The Missouri Ozarks is both home and backdrop to Missouri Arts Council Touring Performer, Mick Byrd. A member of the MO Blues Society and Tennessee Songwriters Association International, Mick has performed at the legendary Bluebird Café in Nashville for over 20 years.  An award from Billboard Magazine kicked off his music career in 1994. Mick brings fans an amazing array of original Roots Rock, Country & his signature “Ozark Blues.”  Mick performs solo or with some of his very talented musician friends as a duo or band, creating “The Backroad Band.” Whether in his travels across Missouri, the United States or Ireland, people everywhere find common ground in Mick's music. My personal introduction to Mick Byrd may be the most unique and unusual yet.  A lifelong friend of nearly 50 years and I were talking one day and she surprised me by telling me her 93 year-old mother confessed she had been married to a man before she was married to my friend's father.  His name was Curtis Byrd.   My friend later met Mick Byrd totally by happenstance on the streets of Jefferson City, Missouri as he was setting up for a music gig at a place called Gumbo Bottoms.  She asked are you related to Curtis Byrd?  Why yes, he said…he was my father.   Oh my…she replied.  Your dad was once married to my mother.  Now there's a song in there somewhere.  My friend suggested at some point Mick get in contact with me.  She thought my music connections in the Heartland may be of assistance to him. He did reach out to me and in March 2023 I had Mick on the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show.  Enjoy my conversation with the pride of Vienna, Missouri, Mick Byrd.  

It is always a thrill and privilege to host an artist's first radio appearance or debut a new song to a listening audience; I had that opportunity recently when classically trained opera singer turned roots music artist Kirstie Lynn appeared with me on an episode of Siren Song on KKFI.  Originally from the Fingerlakes region of Upstate, NY, Kirstie Lynn brings elements of all the places she has called home into her songwriting. From the lilacs of Rochester, the bridges of London, the Blue Ridge Mountains of Appalachia, and the sweeping prairies of the Midwest, you can find melodies and words accompanied by her finger-picking on guitar reminiscent of the many lives she has lived so far.  Her ability to whistle with vibrato and mimic the sounds of a trumpet are sweet enhancements to her vocal prowess.  As an aspiring conservationist and naturalist as well, her lyrics are deeply saturated in the outdoors and her experiences and adventures in nature.  ​With her vocal training, Kirstie Lynn's voice is free and easy to listen to. My listening ear references her voice and style to that of Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez,  and Judy Collins, but her singing is uniquely her own.   Enjoy my initial conversation with and musical performance by Kirstie Lynn aka Kirstie the Worstie.  She's the best!  

Howard Mahan is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter originally from Fredonia, Kansas and now based out of Lawrence, Kansas. Howard started playing guitar in a family band at age 9. After finishing college where he studied guitar, business, and law, Howard has played shows and recorded music across the US with several different groups, including the primary configuration "Howard Mahan & Friends" ​In anticipation of the release of Mahan's second full length album “Marigold”, Howard recently stopped by the Tasty Brew Music Show on KKFI to get acquainted with my listeners and to help “Pitch” during a recent fund drive for the station. I apologize in advance… you'll definitely hear I was suffering from a pretty nasty sinus infection. ​ Marigold draws heavily from Mahan's life-experience, literary, and theatric inspirations…the album has a unique and diverse feel fitting nicely into the Tasty Brew family of sounds…enjoy this conversation with Howard Mahan and Friends!

On February 3, 2023, I presented a four-hour edition of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show, interviewing an array of local, national and international touring artists that were in Kansas City for the annual Folk Alliance International Conference. Last, but certainly not least for the show, was internationally reknown guitarist Pipo Romero. Although flamenco is not necessarily a genre of music heard on my radio show, when Pipo applied to play the Heartland Song Network Private Showcase Room and I had no room for him, I KNEW I had to get him on the radio so I could share his musical prowess with as many people as possible while we had him here in Kansas City. Romero is the new reality of the acoustic guitar in Spain, with a mixture of styles in which folk, flamenco or classical music merge, as well as Celtic or country touches that together crystallize into unique melodies with an innovative sound. From Cadiz, his music comes from music, influences and folklore from around the world. His unique approach to the instrument has made him one of the most respected acoustic guitar artists in the world. I would have loved to devote more time to Mr. Romero but I had to make way for the next program; although the language barrier proved to be a challenge the music was universally understood. It was an honor to be present as a witness and to share it with my listeners. Enjoy this musical interlude with the otherworldly Pipo Romero.

On February 3, 2023, I presented a four-hour edition of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show, interviewing an array of local, national and international touring artists that were in Kansas City for the annual Folk Alliance International Conference. Next up is Patterson Barrett from Austin, Texas and Beth Bombara from St. Louis. Patterson first came to my attention about 8 years ago at the Folk Alliance Conference as the side man for Songwriter Stephanie Urbina Jones. As you'll hear, we've stayed in touch over the years and I learn something new about Patterson with each visit. During this conversation, he casually drops new information to me that at the age of 17 he played pedal steel, dobro and guitar on Jerry Jeff Walker's rendition of Guy Clark's L.A. Freeway for Walker's first release on MCA Records. He has helped anchor the Buddy Miller House Band during an Americanafest Awards Show at the Ryman Auditorium. I had the privilege of attending those Awards Show for a good number of years and the house band was always on fire! Not long after arriving in Austin, he formed the band Partners In Crime, which included Buddy and Julie Miller, sometimes referred to as Mr. and Mrs. Americana Music….releasing one album on their own label, Criminal Records. In the years since, Patterson produced some of Hal Ketchum's earliest demos, served in Al Kooper's back-up band, and performed before 10,000 festival-goers as Chuck Berry's pianist. He accompanied Nancy Griffith on Austin City Limits, legendary Austin singer Lou Ann Barton in music clubs around the country, and Buddy Miller on his Your Love And Other Lies CD, and more recently, on the Buddy & Jim CD. He has a continuing collaboration with Stephanie Urbina Jones as her accompanist, musical director and producer, including work with her Honky Tonk Mariachi project, appearing on the Grand Ole Opry multiple times. In addition to years of supporting other talented artists in every format imaginable, Barrett has maintained a career as a recording artist in his own right. Around 2015, I was introduced to Beth Bombara through a mutual musical friend, Sky Smeed. Although based in Missouri, Beth has spent much of her adulthood on the road, carving out her own award-winning mix of vintage folk and electric roots-rock. She's been a solo artist, a bandleader, and an occasional side musician for other artists. Her songs live in the same world as greats like Petty and Dylan; Gillian and Joni, and grow up like trees drawing nourishment from their roots music. But she never, ever sounds like the "typical" artist who claims these influences; Bombara to zig where someone else might zag, making harder or gentler turns, brushing up against jazz or taking rock toward its fulfillment.” - The Columbia Tribune It's been my pleasure to include Beth for the last three years now as part of the Heartland Song Network Private Showcase line up. Enjoy these conversations and performances with Patterson Barrett and Beth Bombara in Hour 3 of the Folk Alliance Takeover of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show.

On February 3, 2023, I presented a four hour edition of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show, interviewing an array of local, national and international touring artists that were in Kansas City for the annual Folk Alliance International Conference. Next up is Miki P and Cameron Keeling and The Runaway Train. Miki is a multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter who shares her passion through music and performing. She decided when she was 11 years old that making music absolutely was it for her. She picked up her first guitar in 6th grade, and shortly after took up drum set, becoming a dedicated student of both instruments. A self-led musician, Miki now shares her stories through her voice, joined by playing either guitar, drums, piano, bass, or ukulele. “Miki P's voice is kind enough to squeeze your trembling hand, and strong enough to teach you to stand on your own.” Emma Ottinger – Manor Records Cameron Keeling has been saturated in bluegrass music for the last decade or more…. On the road playing clubs, festivals and honky tonks. He hosted weekly bluegrass jams for 4 years at the Westport Saloon in Kansas City while holding down a spot for five years in the touring powergrass trio of Grassfed. Cameron is writing new songs and performs “Haystack” and “Hey Hey Hey” here for us live in the studio with his Runaway Train line up… Zack Bozeman on upright bass and Corey Clark on mandolin. Enjoy Part 2 of the 2023 Folk Alliance Takeover of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show.

On February 3, 2023, I presented a four hour edition of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show, interviewing an array of local, national and international touring artists that were in Kansas City for the annual Folk Alliance International Conference. First up were Chris Hudson of Kansas City's Gullywasher and Australia's Nick Vulture. Hudson is a Guitarist, visual artist, Singer Songwriter for Kansas City- based Gullywasher, the Bard Owls and other projects, and Teacher at Kansas City Young Audiences. Vulture has moved into territory that couldn't be any further removed from his roots in the garage punk scene of Adelaide, South Australia with his band The Molting Vultures. His solo endeavor is gritty acoustic folk done raw and stripped back to its very core. Enjoy these on air musical interludes and conversations with Chris Hudson and Nick Vulture.

The music of Caleb Caudle was originally recommended to me some years ago by music loving friends that know whereof they speak. Following their suggestions usually yields solid gold. Caleb was recently in Kansas City in 2022 on tour in support of Hayes Carll and then solo to promote his latest critically acclaimed album, Forsythia. He was also finally able to personally promote his album, Better Hurry Up, that was way laid by the Covid-19 pandemic. Forsythia is a portrait of Caleb at his most solitary and reflective. Thematically, it meets anticipation for the unknown future with nostalgia for the past, and reconciles both with meditation in the present. The album, recorded at Cash Cabin and produced by John Carter Cash, features acclaimed session players Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush, Dennis Crouch and Fred Eltringham, and the vocal talents of Carlene Carter, Elizabeth Cook and Sarah Peasall McGuffey. On his last release, Better Hurry Up, Caudle found himself feeling like time was moving too fast. By early 2020, with a new home base in Nashville, a few years of sobriety under his belt and the release of his best album yet imminent, Caudle was prepared for the next phase of his career. But a few days before Better Hurry Up came out, a devastating tornado ripped through Nashville; a week later, just before he was set to depart for a lengthy tour, the world went into lockdown. The couple moved back to the mountains of North Carolina for the duration of the pandemic, where he spent most of his time in the woods– hiking, observing, thinking and writing. Caleb took some time to call into the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show from the road on his way to Kansas City for a show. Enjoy my on air conversation with the very talented songcrafter….Caleb Caudle.

No stranger to change or the exploration that comes with it, Carrie Welling has been navigating life's twists, turns, demons, and discoveries from a young age. A self-described ‘military brat', Welling's struggle to feel rooted in any one place carved a unharmonious path of heartbreak, doubt, and insecurity that defined her 20s and early 30s. Her bold, sultry voice, reminiscent of Sheryl Crow's grit, Natalie Maines' twang, and Stevie Nicks' heart, is upstaged only by the genuine love and connection this natural performer has with her fans both on and off stage. But embracing confidence has not always been easy for this singer-songwriter, who speaks candidly about her battle to be good to herself, and to quiet the inner voice nagging her to be “perfect”. Late in the summer of 2022, a Tasty Brew Music listener and local house concert presenter from Lawrence, Kansas gave me the heads up about Carrie. We weren't able to get her live in the studio while she was in the area, but after some initial technical difficulties, we were able to have a nice on air conversation about her lyrical journey… including the importance of having an organizational and logistical support team and auxiliary financial support via platforms like Patreon. I was so encouraged to hear of her connections with personal favorites Mary Bragg and Barnaby Bright. Welling put out a Patreon campaign, embracing her dream to finally quit the side hustle and focus on music full-time. Her patrons, which Carrie refers to as her “champions”, have proven to be an integral part of the artist's journey - not only supporting her online but also at live performances across the globe. “My Patreon champions started out as my fans and now we're all friends. Some of them I talk to everyday, and they give me music ideas! They keep me going,” she says. Enjoy my conversation with Nashville's Carrie Welling.

Serendipity brought Jeremy Facknitz into my musical life. Late this past summer, he posted on a local Kansas City Musicians Facebook Page looking for a fill in gig on just a few days' notice to help support a solo run of gigs in the Midwest. I checked him out, was happy to help him land a last-minute slot in a songwriters' circle at a local venue and welcomed Jeremy into the radio station for a conversation during my weekly Tasty Brew Music Radio Show. Jeremy has entertained audiences with his lovingly crafted music and high-energy performances for decades. Since the 2002 break-up of his Detroit-based band "The Ottomans", Jeremy has performed primarily as a solo act, marrying folk-rock and jazz stylings to showcase his intimate stories of life, love, and self-discovery. Facknitz carved out a living performing at bars, coffeeshops, and corporate events while teaching lessons on the side. Life turned on a dime when on July 17th, 2017 Jeremy was diagnosed with viral meningitis. "I came face to face with my mortality, and I realized it was time for a change. I quit performing at bars and spent the next year making the leap to house concerts, touring, and performing solely for listening audiences." Jeremy was named a top 24 finalist from over 800 entries in the 2020 and 2022 Grassy Hill Kerrville New Folk Songwriting Competitions at Kerrville Folk Festival. His songs "Ballet of an Unhatched Chick" and "Michigan (Something In The Water)" were awarded semi-finalist distinction at songoftheyear.com, also in 2020 and 2022. As you'll hear in this conversation, while occasionally performing with his 6 piece band in Colorado, Jeremy continues to tour solo - performing at house concerts and listening rooms in the United States, Canada and Europe. He's currently promoting his 5th album of original material "From Those Sweet Ashes" and has begun recording a follow-up album set for release in 2023. Enjoy this brief interlude with Songwriter Jeremy Facknitz.

Savraya is a singer-songwriter referred to me by a mutual songwriting friend from Louisiana, Tommy Ike Hailey. She's just starting her lyrical life and it's always an honor and privilege to be the first radio or podcast experience for a young artist like this. Living in places like Nashville, Ft. Worth and the Mississippi Gulf Coast near New Orleans gives her a unique perspective on Southern American music with roots, blues, jazz, country, hip hop, pop, and even Cajun in the mix. Gifted with her first guitar at 16, she started writing songs and playing open mics. Dad's job transferred the family back to Nashville and she started playing songwriter rounds and recording with Michael McAdam and great Nashville musicians including Jimmy Lester, and Dave Roe who had worked with Johnny Cash, Steve Earle, Dwight Yoakum and many more. Another transfer back to Mississippi and Savraya started to write new material and gigging all over the Gulf Coast. She claims no specific genre with an open mind to past and present influences. Her second release “Glass Ball” finished first in the 2021 Ozone Songwriting competition. She works with regional videographer Chaz Singleton (Astroclown Productions) who has shot videos for hip hop artists including Juvenile, Choppa, Young Bleu, and the Ying Yang Twins. Savraya is a unique artist with powerful vocals and meaningful lyrics for one so young! Enjoy this early morning conversation and musical performance with Savraya.

Joy Zimmerman, in regular rotation on KKFI's Tasty Brew Music Radio Show, is a folk and acoustic roots singer/songwriter who cultivates joy with a clear, rich voice. She believes in the power of music and community. At home on guitar and violin, Joy's most recent album, The Canvas Before Us, debuted at #8 on the FAI Folk Chart. I concur with this assessment…."Joy Zimmerman combines consummate instrumental skill with moving lyrics...and she does it with wonderful creativity, beauty, and her clear, ringing, passionate voice." ~Mark Helpsmeet, Northern Spirit Radio Also a personal favorite, Danielle Ate the Sandwich is the stage name of pop-folk songwriter, Danielle Anderson. Getting her start in Fort Collins, CO, now based in Kansas City, MO, Danielle has been touring nationally since 2009, after cultivating an online following from her homemade videos on YouTube. Danielle Ate the Sandwich has released seven albums of original music and toured internationally. These two powerhouses recently met via the Heartland Song Network and as you'll hear in this conversation, have joined forces and voices to collaborate on a new project of unknown destination and duration….we'll just have to see. One of the wonderful byproducts so far is their collaboration with Erin McGrane and Eboni Fondren lending their voices on Joy's song, “Hear our Voices” released on the heels of the statewide vote to preserve reproductive rights in Kansas. Enjoy this mid-day morning conversation with Joy Zimmerman and Danielle Anderson!

Nationally renowned, Québécois folk-pop musician, Geneviève Racette, has captivated listeners with her gentle, yet compelling voice and has garnered impressive industry support for her folk-pop tracks ever since her first EP in 2014. Through her lyricism and ethereal vocals (which you will hear throughout this session), Geneviève has emerged as a rising star in both French and English-speaking Canadian music scenes. I was lucky enough to meet Genevieve early in 2022 and had her on the expanded 4 hour version of the Folk Alliance International Take Over of the Tasty Brew Music Radio Show on KKFI Radio. When she returned to Kansas City in late summer of 2022, I was only too happy to renew the acquaintance as I hosted my monthly episode of the Siren Song radio show. It was enlightening to discover both the differences and similarities of pursuing a lyrical life and surviving a global pandemic in Canada vis a vis the United States and to become familiar with an artist's educational background, collaborative and mentor experiences. Enjoy my conversation with the lovely Genevieve Racette. Photo Credit: Creator: ANNIE DIOTTE Copyright: 5146059015

Quite often my involvement in the Roots Music Community affords me the opportunity to witness the launch of an artist that has the promise of a bona fide lyrical life. Forrest McCurren has that kind of potential with songs that can give you the spiritual and emotional reboot you may have difficulty achieving on your own. Stylistically you'll hear a tip of the hat to the greats he mentions in this conversation… Prine, Dylan, Clark, Van Zandt… Forrest sings of stories from waitresses, heartbroken high school football standouts, tattooed trailer park lovers…written for good people that are still trying to figure out if life is sweet or sour. His backing band, The Daily Special, includes wife Margaret McCurren, a multi-instrumentalist that is as comfortable with drumsticks as she is with a fiddle bow and with a voice that warmly compliments Forrest's sound. As noted on their website...Margaret is the cold, refreshing, light beer to Forrest's shot of whiskey. Like a piece of modern art at a county fair, they are complimentary opposites. Rounding out the line up is fellow Mid-Missourian Ryan Tannehill aka RT on a very tasty sounding Telecaster. They call it Small Town Soul – Rural Rock n Roll. Catch them when you can as I'm pretty sure the release of the debut effort, Oh Me Oh My, is going to be their entry to a long and lyrical road…around the world. Oh and be sure to tell them your favorite joke...it may make it in to the banter of a show near you. Enjoy this conversation with this cosmic troubadour from the heart of the heartland – Forrest McCurren.

The music of Wade Bowen has been spinning in my playlists since I went on the radio in 2010. My niece Shae was attending Texas State University in San Marcos at the time and Wade Bowen, Randy Rogers, Jason Bowland and others were working hard to become the “go to” purveyors of that very distinctive sound that some came to label as Outlaw or Red Dirt Country. Today Wade is a familiar and awarded name in music, performing along the active touring highways of Texas and the Southwest and selling out top venues like the legendary Gruene Hall in New Braunfels and performing multiple times on the Grand Ole Opry. Carving out a dedicated fan base with his magnetic appeal and proven abilities, Bowen has now enjoyed a 20-year stint as a leader amongst a flourishing Americana and Alt-Country music community. Wade continued his productive and lyrical life through the pandemic on his most recent full-length album, Somewhere Between The Secret And The Truth. Wade recounts “I went through a big writer's drought; kind of just being shell shocked from everything, not knowing how to handle it, and then finally came out of that and just had this flood of just wanting to write.” “This reset button really rejuvenated my passion for my entire career, all the way across the board. I was trying to find where I fit musically again. I've been doing this so long that I feel like I got off track from where I felt I fit–I was all over the place with my songwriting and my career.” “Ironically enough, COVID really gave me a chance to just turn my brain off a little bit and stop thinking. When I came out on the other side, I really found not only a renewed sense of my music and wanting to get out and play again, but I found a renewed sense of self. I found who I wanted to be as a writer, as a singer, as an artist.” Wade cowrote all 12 songs on the record and serves as the sole producer for the first time in his career.