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: Megan Burtt
In the 70th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Colorado-based artist about influential points in her musical journey and the making of her new album.
About That Song: Dylan Hicks
In the 69th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minnesota-based experimental multigenre musician, writer, and frontman of the band Dylan Hicks & Small Screens about his own music as well as game-changing influences on his musical journey.
Music Review: Larry & Joe, ‘Manos Panamericanos’
On their new album, virtuosic multi-instrumentalists Larry Bellorín (Monagas, Venezuela) and GRAMMY-nominated Joe Troop (Winston-Salem, North Carolina) fuse their respective Venezuelan and Appalachian folk traditions on the harp, banjo, cuatro, fiddle, upright bass, guitar, and maracas to prove that music has no borders.
Midwest’s Dylan Salfer Band Wins Big at International Blues Challenge in Memphis
The local guitar prodigy and his band brought home two prestigious prizes from the annual contest.
About That Song: Sarah Larsson of Red Thread
In the 68th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minneapolis-based folk ensemble’s frontwoman about the artists, moments and songs that shaped her musical journey.
Virtual Listening Party: Glad You’re Here’s ‘On Air, Vol. 1’
Singer-songwriter and podcast host Grant Glad leads us through his new album, a stunning compilation of performances by a variety of Minnesota artists recorded on-air for his show.
Artist Interview: David Ramirez
The Austin-based singer-songwriter talks about his current tour and upcoming album, his music career “unquitting,” and more.
About That Song: Sam Graber Band
In the 67th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minneapolis rock band about songs and experiences that helped shape their artistic journeys and their new album.
Music Review: Eliza Rush, ‘This Side of Heaven’
The new EP showcases the Pennsylvania-based artist’s enchanting voice and magical rhythms and melodies.
Music Review: Dan Rumsey, ‘Flowers On A Lamp Pole’
The St. Paul songwriter writes for a better world in his latest star-studded offering.
About That Song: The Nunnery
In the 66th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the unique Minnesota singer-songwriter about songs that helped shape her artistic journey.
About That Song: Matthew French
In the 65th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Minnesota-based folk artist about game-changing songs in his artistic journey.
Music Review: Matt Hillyer, ‘Bright Skyline’
The veteran Americana artist gives us an album of grounded, insightful Texas songwriting on his latest release.
Music Review: Katherine Nagy, ‘Sweetlove’
The Ireland-raised, Indiana-based singer-songwriter’s transporting new album is an intimate love letter delivered with gospel fervor.
About That Song: Helene Cronin
In the 64th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Dallas-based artist about influential music in her artistic journey.
About That Song: Emily Hicks
In the 63rd edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Utah-based country artist about game-changing songs in her artistic journey.
About That Song: Nikki Lemire
In the 62nd edition of our special interview series, Sarah talks to the Minnesota harpist and singer-songwriter about the musical moments and songs that had an impact on her as an artist.
Music Review: The Cactus Blossoms, ‘Every Time I Think About You’
The Minneapolis brother duo and their band continue to grow and evolve from their country roots on their irresistibly catchy new album.
Video Premiere: Mary Bue, “Right Now”
The Minnesota singer-songwriter and force of nature has a propulsive new single out today. Get an exclusive first look at the accompanying music video here
About That Song: Emily Haavik
In the 61st edition of our special interview series, Sarah talks to the Minnesota folk/alt-country artist about the songs that set her on her artistic path and her own powerful, impactful songwriting.