Welcome to Mitten Music, where we bring you authentic conversations.

Most bands try to look cool. The Mannequins show up in full gym-bro uniforms, laugh their way into a Battle of the Bands final, and still make a serious case for why live music should feel unpredictable, communal, and alive. If you care about new rock bands, West Michigan music, or the weird magic of a great set, this one is for you.

Welcome to Mitten Music, where we bring you authentic conversations.

In this episode, we delve into the heart of Michigan's music scene, exploring how artists can unite rather than compete. Matthew Rose shares his vision for fostering collaboration among musicians and reviving the spirit of Motown through the Michigan Music Awards.

Welcome to Mitten Music, where we bring you authentic conversations.

Two Michigan musicians sit down at the Michigan Music Econ Summit in Grand Rapids to talk about performance, teaching, showcases, and the realities of building a music career. Jacki Daniels shares her path as a pop country singer-songwriter, while Keala Venema talks about fiddle playing, string band tradition, and her work as a music educator.

Welcome to Mitten Music, where we bring you authentic conversations.

This episode features sound engineer and musician Marley Kaye, who talks about building a music career that spans live audio, freelance work, guitar teaching, home recording, and her own projects. The conversation centers on what makes The Stray’s listening-room environment special, how Marley leads the sound team there, and why music still hits her emotionally every time she mixes.

Welcome to Mitten Music, where we bring you authentic conversations.

Chris Taylor joins Jeff and Ryan to talk about Fuzz Fest, the long-running rock festival he started in Ann Arbor. He breaks down how the festival grew from 33 bands and two stages into a yearly rock gathering at the Blind Pig, with a focus on punk, psych, stoner rock, garage, and related sounds.

We also get into his bands, especially Mazinga and the revived Blue Snaggletooth, plus the handmade, old-school approach he uses to run the whole thing. Chris explains how he curates the lineup himself, manages stage changeovers, and even performs liquid light shows under the name Eternal Eyes.