The Music Distillery
Exploring Americana Music Through Interviews, Reviews & Essays
Written by Carol Roth, Sarah Morris, Doyle Turner, Christine Davis, and other guest contributors
Virtual Listening Party: Emmy Woods, ‘When the Day Breaks’
Take a deep dive with the innovative Midwest folk artist and reviewer Jacson Miller into the meaning behind (and making of) Woods’ profound new album.
About That Song: Rich Mattson
In the 100th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah Morris talks with the Duluth-area Americana cosmic rock artist about the songs that made him want to write, record, and never stop.
About That Song: Liz Draper
In the 99th installment of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the accomplished bassist about the music and experiences that impacted her artistic journey.
Music Review: The Friend Ship, ‘All Aboard!’
The Twin Cities supergroup’s EP showcases each artist’s gifts, separately and in perfect harmony.
Josie Langhorst: Diary of a Minnesota Musician, Chapter 6
This is the sixth in a yearlong monthly series following the experiences and creative journey of a Minnesota musician new to the Twin Cities.
About That Song: Samuel Wilbur
In the 98th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minneapolis singer-songwriter about songs that helped shape his artistic journey.
Americana for Justice Playlist: ICE out of Minnesota Edition
Local artists have stepped up to protest the brutal occupation of the Twin Cities and beyond with a host of powerful protest songs.
Music Review: Robert Jon & The Wreck, ‘Heartbreaks & Last Goodbyes’
The Southern California rockers deliver and then some on their ninth studio album.
About That Song: Weary Ramblers
In the 97th edition of our special series, singer-songwriter Sarah Morris interviews the Iowa-based duo about the songs that inspired them to become songwriters.
Josie Langhorst: Diary of a Minnesota Musician, Chapter 5
This is the fifth in a yearlong monthly series following the experiences and creative journey of a Minnesota musician new to the Twin Cities.
About That Song: LaPlant Road
In the 96th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah Morris asks the Minnesota duo about songs that shaped their music journey.
About That Song: End-of-Year Special 2025!
In the 95th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah asks this year’s guests (and the AiA team) about THE song that blew them away in 2025.
Josie Langhorst: Diary of a Minnesota Musician, Chapter 4
This is the fourth in a yearlong monthly series following the experiences and creative journey of a Minnesota musician new to the Twin Cities.
About That Song: Holiday Special 2025!
In the 94th edition of our special series, Sarah asks a handful of artists friends to talk about their top holiday song.
Single Premiere: Red Eye Ruby, “Rejection Is Divine Protection”
The Minnesota retro roots-rock act drops a soulful new single next week. Hear it first here!
About That Song: Hilary Yoder of Wren + Wilde
In the 93rd edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks the fellow Minnesota singer-songwriter about her band and the songs that helped shape her musical journey.
Josie Langhorst: Diary of a Minnesota Musician, Chapter 3
This is the third in a yearlong monthly series following the experiences and creative journey of a Minnesota musician new to the Twin Cities. This chapter includes an exclusive single premiere!
About That Song: Joseph Huber
In the 92nd edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Wisconsin artist about the songs that inspired him and other memorable moments in his songwriting journey.
Music Review: Nobody from Nowhere’s Self-Titled Album
Experienced producer and songwriter Michael Koppelman’s new project is the culmination of finely honed skill and talent.
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.