The Music Distillery
Exploring Americana Music Through Interviews, Reviews & Essays
Written by Carol Roth, Jaclyn Nott, Sarah Morris, Jacson Miller, and other guest contributors
Music Review: Amanda B. Perry, ‘List of Lovers’
The powerhouse Minnesota vocalist and songwriter is back with her most captivating and deftly produced album to date.
About That Song: Leslie Vincent
In the 91st edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Twin Cities artist about influential points in her musical journey and about some of the songs on her upcoming album.
Virtual Listening Party: Chicken Wire Empire, ‘Growing Pains’
The Wisconsin band leads us through their latest album, which weaves old-time and modern bluegrass together in creative and highly listenable ways.
Music Review: Brent Fuqua, ‘Brent Fuqua & Friends’
The in-demand Minneapolis supporting musician returns to center stage with a warmhearted, foot-stomping EP of originals and covers.
Music Review: Sarah Morris, ‘Say Yes’
The Minneapolis singer-songwriter’s radiant sixth album probes the uncertainty of life and encourages listeners to embrace the unknown.
Josie Langhorst: Diary of a Minnesota Musician, Chapter 2
This is the second in a yearlong monthly series following the experiences and creative journey of a Minnesota musician new to the Twin Cities.
About That Song: Amanda B. Perry
In the 90th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minnesota singer-songwriter about game-changing songs in her artistic journey.
Concert Review & Photo Gallery: Paul McCartney, ‘Got Back’ Tour, U.S. Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, 10/17/25
The legendary artist’s long-awaited return to the Twin Cities was a joyful and magical experience.
Song Premiere: Joshua Espinosa, “Me or the Whiskey”
The Twin Cities artist’s deceptively simple waltz is one of an intriguing collection of songs from his upcoming album Americaña. Hear it first here!
Event Review: Evanston Folk Festival 2025 in Evanston, Illinois
The second annual two-day celebration of of folk and Americana music’s diverse range of sounds and voices boasted a stunning lineup of heavy hitters and rising stars.
Single Premiere: Destinie Lynn, “Shortnin’ Bread”
The LA singer-songwriter is set to drop the playful, sensual first single off her upcoming debut album. Hear it first here!
About That Song: Conzemius
In the 89th edition of our special interview series, Sarah talks to the Minneapolis artist about game-changing songs and moments in her artistic journey and her own soulful, ethereal music.
About That Song: Meghan Kreidler of Kiss the Tiger
In the 88th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minneapolis rock bandleader about songs and experiences that helped shape her artistic journey and the band’s new album.
Josie Langhorst: Diary of a Minnesota Musician, Chapter 1
This is the first in a yearlong monthly series following the experiences and creative journey of a Minnesota musician new to the Twin Cities.
Event Review & Photo Gallery: Great River Folk Festival 2025 in La Crosse, Wisconsin
The low-key Midwest mainstay dazzled attendees with its impressive lineup and quietly but solidly progressive ethos.
Event Review & Photo Gallery: Minnesota Bluegrass August Festival 2025 in Richmond, Minnesota
The family-friendly music-drenched annual event is a warm and welcoming experience for music lovers and musicians alike.
About That Song: *Splash!*
In the 87th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minnesota singer-songwriter about music that helped shape his artistic journey, including the stories behind the songs on his recently released debut album.
About That Song: Jesse Norell of Riffin’ Griffin
In the 86th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minneapolis artist about the songs that inspired him on his songwriting journey and about his kid-focused rock group.
Music Review: Ben Cook-Feltz, ‘Cook-Feltz Sings Son of Schmilsson’
The Minnesota-based artist’s tribute to Harry Nilsson is a three-ring circus of fun, beauty and artistic finesse.
Video Premiere: Sarah Morris, “Yeah, Yeah” (Live at Waldmann Brewery)
The Minnesota singer-songwriter’s new video captures a live performance of a song off her upcoming album Say Yes. Watch and listen to it first here!