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: Annie Fitzgerald
In our 13th edition of this special blog series, Sarah Morris talks to a fellow Minnesota singer-songwriter about life-changing songs and moments in her development as an artist.
Show Review: Eli Gardiner at 50th & France in Edina, Minnesota
It was just another ordinary, very special Friday at 50th & France’s Music on the Plaza.
All About Amerigrass
Learn about this unique inaugural Americana and bluegrass festival, which takes place October 7 in the heart of South Minneapolis!
About That Song: Siri Undlin of Humbird
In the 12th edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks the Minneapolis singer-songwriter Siri Undlin of Humbird about formative songs in her musical journey.
Music Review: Vingard, ‘In the Long Run’
The Berlin-based Danish artist’s debut album is a rapturous hybrid of pop and Americana.
About That Song: The International Treasures
In the 11th edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks fellow Minnesota singer-songwriters Ted Hajnasiewicz and Doyle Turner about their duo project and the songs that helped shape their musical journeys.
Event Review: Great River Folk Festival 2023 in La Crosse, Wisconsin
This long-running nonprofit festival managed to both respect and expand upon the traditions of folk music. Read about it and see a gallery of photos from the event!
Event Review: Storyhill Fest 2023 in Deerwood, Minnesota
For possibly the last time, music lovers and artists gathered in Clearwater Forest Camp for the intimate annual gathering.
About That Song: Vance Gilbert
In the 10th edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks prolific songwriter and folk festival mainstay Vance Gilbert about songs that shaped his music journey.
Single Premiere: Ben Cook-Feltz, “Magnet On Your Refrigerator”
The Minnesota-based singer-songwriter applies his trademark wry wit to a new single about the joys of settling down far from Music City. Hear it first here!
About That Song: Justin Roth
In the ninth edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks Colorado-based artist Justin Roth about influential songs in his songwriting journey.
Artist Interview: Q&A with Listening Party
The Milwaukee folk-rock Americana mainstays talk about the evolution of their sound and their new album.
About That Song: Scott Cook
In the eighth edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks Albertan singer-songwriter Scott Cook about pivotal songs in his life.
Event Review: Mile of Music 2023 in Appleton, Wisconsin
Even seeing a small sliver of the hundreds of artists at this four-day multi-venue festival added up to an epic weekend of music.
About That Song: Nikki Morgan
In the seventh edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks North Carolina singer-songwriter Nikki Morgan about pivotal songs in her life.
Artist Interview & Single Premiere: Grant Glad, “On the Ropes”
The Duluth MN transplant talks about his upcoming single, the second off a concept album about the life of a military veteran. You can hear it first here!
About That Song: Lauren Calve
In the sixth edition of our special series, Sarah Morris interviews D.C.-based singer-songwriter Lauren Calve about the artists and songs that helped shape her musical journey.
Show Review & Photo Gallery: Sarah King & Samantha Grimes at kj’s Hideaway
Two fiery singer-songwriters put on an unforgettable show at a unique St. Paul venue.
About That Song: Kevin Bowe
In the fifth edition of our special series, Minnesota singer-songwriter Sarah Morris interviews an award-winning songwriter and producer about formative songs in his life.
Show Review & Photo Gallery: Molly Brandt, Pit Stop & Becky Kapell at the Turf Club
Classic honkytonk and edgy alt-country came together in St. Paul for a sublime night celebrating Brandt’s album release.