The Music Distillery
Exploring Americana Music Through Interviews, Reviews & Essays
Written by Carol Roth, Jaclyn Nott, Sarah Morris, Jacson Miller, and other guest contributors
About That Song: The Twins of Franklin
In the 44th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minnesota duo—Becky Shaheen and Laura Lou DuSchane—about influential music in their artistic journeys.
Twangfest Returns for 2nd Year at Palmer’s in Minneapolis
The annual festival organized by Twin Cities country music mainstay Doug Collins features a broad array of local Americana talent.
Music Review: The Thing, ‘The Thing Is’
The NYC-based rockers keep the guitars turned up on their second album.
About That Song: The Neighborhood Quartet
In the 43rd edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to a supergroup of top Twin Cities musicians about music and experiences that had a big impact on their artistic journeys.
Music Review: The Roe Family Singers, ‘Sisters & Brothers’
The Minnesota string band draws on their punk ethos and the activist history of old-time music to produce a stirring collection of party and protest songs.
About That Song: Susan Werner
In the 42nd edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Iowa-born singer-songwriter about songs that helped shape her artistic (and physical) journey, including some from her new album Halfway to Houston.
Music Review: Allen Dobb, ‘Alone Together’
The veteran singer-songwriter’s evocative new album uses rugged British Columbia as a backdrop for appreciating the beauty (and shortness) of life.
About That Song: Deidre McCalla
In the 41st edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the acclaimed folk artist about game-changing songs in her musical journey.
Music Review: John Louis, ‘For Everyone (Especially You)’
The Minnesota singer-songwriter’s lyrics take center stage on an exquisitely rendered album that brings catharsis and healing to themes of addiction and grief.
Artist Interview: Q&A with Noah Lit of Grackles
The seasoned indie-rock musician talks about his new band, their deeply Austin-influenced sound and their self-titled debut album.
About That Song: Joyann Parker
In the 40th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the charting blues artist from Minnesota about the songs that helped shape her artistic path.
About That Song: David Stoddard
In the 39th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the award-winning Minnesota singer-songwriter about songs that helped shape his artistic journey, his new duets album with Karen Mal, and upcoming Twin Cities shows.
About That Song: Ben Cook-Feltz
In the 38th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minnesota indie-pop/Americana singer-songwriter about songs that had a big impact on his artistic journey.
About That Song: Mary Bue
In the 37th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minnesota singer-songwriter about songs that had a big impact on her artistic journey.
Music Review: ‘The Vinnie Paolizzi LP’
The Nashville-via-Pennsylvania country artist’s beautifully crafted debut LP showcases his warmth, wit and optimism.
About That Song: Helena Hallberg
In the 36th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Sweden-born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter and dulcimer player about influential songs in her artistic journey.
About That Song: Riley Skinner
In the 35th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minneapolis-based avante garde folk artist about game-changing songs in her artistic journey.
About That Song: The Jorgensens
In the 34th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minnesota couple who front the band—Kurt and Brianna Jorgensen—about influential music in their artistic journeys.
About That Song: Maygen and The Birdwatcher
In the 33rd edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the award-winning Minnesota country-folk duo about the songs that helped guide their musical journey.
Music Review: The Montvales, ‘Born Strangers’
The Cincinnati-via-Knoxville duo employs a captivating modern sound crafted from old-time influences to explore serious societal issues.