The Music Distillery
Exploring Americana Music Through Interviews, Reviews & Essays
Written by Carol Roth, Sarah Morris, Doyle Turner, Christine Davis, and other guest contributors
Music Review: Julie Williams’ Self-Titled EP
The Nashville-based singer-songwriter’s 2023 EP is a powerfully vulnerable triumph.
About That Song: End-of-Year Special
In the special year-end edition of this series, guests of About That Song tell us about the songs that stood out to them in 2023.
Artist Interview: Q&A with Colin Roy Monette
The Minnesota-based singer/songwriter/guitarist talks about the digital release of three albums and plans for a new one.
About That Song: Mae Simpson
In the 26th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minnesota-based songwriter and powerhouse vocalist about game-changing songs and moments in her musical journey.
Artist Interview: Cary Morin
The acclaimed Colorado roots artist’s new album pays homage to his Montana upbringing, his Native heritage and the paintings of Charles M. Russell.
About That Song: Emmy Woods
In the 25th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the St. Paul-based singer-songwriter about songs that influenced her as an artist.
Single Premiere: John Louis, “Wake Me Up”
Get an exclusive first listen to the Minnesota singer-songwriter’s breathtaking new song!
About That Song: Skarlett Woods
In the 24th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minnesotan singer-songwriter about the songs that impacted her musical journey.
Music Review: Goatroper’s Self-Titled Debut Album
The Minneapolis-based country-folk band shows off their storytelling chops on their charming first album.
About That Song: Martin Zellar
In the 23rd edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the longtime Minnesotan (now Mexico-based) and former Gear Daddies frontman about the songs that impacted his musical journey.
About That Song: Kashimana
In the 22nd edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Nigerian-born Minnesota-based folk/soul artist about the songs that impacted their musical journey.
Music Review: Anna Tivel, ‘Outsiders (Live in a Living Room)’
The Oregon-based singer/songwriter's sweet, dreamy vocals and masterful songwriting make her seventh album a must-listen. We reviewed the August 2023 release in anticipation of Tivel’s Dec. 1 Turf Club show in St. Paul with Joe Pug.
About That Song: Mother Banjo
In the 21st edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to singer-songwriter, banjo player, DJ, podcast host, and music community booster extraordinaire Mother Banjo about the songs that impacted her musical journey.
Show Review & Photo Gallery: IV and the Strange Band and The Goddamn Gallows at Appleton Beer Factory in Appleton, WI
Two punk/country bands set the night on fire in downtown Appleton, Wisconsin. Read the review and see a gallery of photos from the show!
Artist Interview: Q&A with Mark Joseph
We talked to the versatile Americana artist about his bluesy new album and his upcoming show at St. Paul’s Fitzgerald Theater.
About That Song: Haley E Rydell
In the 20th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Midwest singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist about her new album and influential songs in her music journey.
Video Premiere: Juniper, “Ride Between the Cars (am version)”
The New Jersey-based teen indie-pop artist has a new video to go along with a new version of a single from her sophomore album. Get an exclusive first look at the video here!
About That Song: Michael Ferrier of Fathom Lane
In the 19th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the bandleader of a Minneapolis folk-rock outfit about influential songs in his musical journey.
Music Review: Shannon Clark & the Sugar, ‘This Old World’
The Ohio-based family band’s second studio album in three years is a masterpiece.
Song Premiere: Luke LeBlanc, “Defeated”
The exceptional Minnesota singer-songwriter shares a song off his upcoming album, Places. Hear it first here!