John Magnuson Trio w/Matt Caflisch and Band at White Squirrel Bar

Americana guitarist and songwriter John Magnuson released his album Barely Noticeable in November of 2020. Known largely for his work with The Carpetbaggers, the Minneapolis-based artist enjoyed some notoriety in the mid-to-late 90s when the band did three tours with Son Volt and shared the stage with such notables as Los Lobos, Alison Krauss and the Gear Daddies. After the band disbanded in 2009, Magnuson started performing with his own trio, playing some under-the-radar shows, until he connected with country singer Becky Kapell, who introduced him to noted Twin Cities guitarist Paul Bergen (Erik Koskinen, Molly Maher, Hillbilly Voodoo Dolls). It turned out Bergen was a fan of The Carpetbaggers, as was engineer/producer Mark Stockert (Brian Setzer, Charlie Parr, Chastity Brown, The Waifs). When meeting Magnuson in the parking lot after a show, he said “The Carpetbaggers? You were in the Carpetbaggers? I used to go see you guys at the Uptown Bar all the time!” A fast friendship was formed and Magnuson’s new project was born.

Although the introverted songwriter has often felt comfortable in the background quietly writing songs, Magnuson reemerges into the spotlight on his new album, finally coming into his own as a solo artist and indeed getting the notice he deserves.

Barely Noticeable is the first of a 2-album set capturing songs written over the last 3 decades.