Podcast Episodes
Carbon Decoy
Holy smokes folks...we had a blast talking with the guys from Detroit band, Carbon Decoy!
We learned so much from these guys, like what inspires them in their music creation process, or why a marching band bass drums makes a difference, and even why Earl likes to meet his audience eye to eye.
There's a lot of great artists from all around Michigan, Detroit, and all over the place, but these guys take Ryan's cake for sure!
Live Stream!
LIVE STREAM episode! We discuss our experiences with live shows and festivals this summer, including recent concerts they attended and upcoming events like Sounds of the Zoo. While battling streaming gremlins, we give live feedback that provides a joke or two!
We also mention recent interviews and are yet to be released, and reflect on the evolution of the podcast and its focus on promoting Michigan music.
We also contemplate the difference between AliExpress and Alibaba..
The Ultraviolets
Ryan and Jeff talk with the Grand Rapids punk band, The Ultraviolets. We touch on their debut EP, Radiation, and their plan for another EP in 2025. The band talks to us about their gear, favorite places to play, the multiple iterations of the band, and how Reddy Kilowatt inspired one of their early logo designs.
Adaboy!
Ryan and Jeff talk with Bay City band, Adaboy!. The band has gone through many iterations since Mike, their lead vocalist and guitarist, started this project almost 14 years ago. Each member has overcome some sort of addiction and now they are creating positive music that "excludes excellence" and aligns with the band's Mission Statement. We cover the connections they have made in Nashville for production and recording. The band is taking its years of experience and musical influences to create songs that are "irresistible" for all.
Mid-Year Live Chat
Ryan and Jeff did a livestream chat near the end of June. They talk about Ryan's recent involvement with Sonic Coast, upcoming festivals, AI, and of course new music from several Michigan artists.
The Stray Cafe
Hunter from The Stray Cafe joined us for some awesome conversation about what The Stray is all about, where it got it’s name from, and how the idea for creating The Stray was brought to light. We also get a behind the scenes look into the challenges of starting a new business during COVID times.
In The Valley Below
We have another two timer on the Mitten Music podcast! In The Valley Below joined us once again! We have two new singles from their forthcoming album, The Black Moon! Brushfire and I Could Lose You, find them on their YouTube channel. We also got to talk about playing w/The Smashing Pumpkins at The World Is A Vampire Tour and their The Black Moon tour kicking off in July 2024!
DogTown Studio
DogTown Studio’s co-founder Robby Fischer joined us for awesome conversation. He gave us the history of DogTown Studio and why they are niche in what and how they record artists. Check out their YouTube page with tons of videos on the work they’ve done! While you’re at it, check out their cool Instagram page as well!
Laddermatch
While their bio on some socials list them as “loud, abrasive, violent.” we found that Laddermatch was all that and so much more! We recently caught up with Laddermatch to talk about the obvious, wrestling. We did also talk about their song writing process, how they’ve grown as a band and individuals, as well as their latest video, Drive
Lucius Fox
We had the pleasure of talking with Jeremy and Paul from Lucius Fox! These guys were awesome. We've seen them in concert and they ROCK!
We got to learn about their history as friends and being in a band, along with where they get their creative energy from, and where you can catch them live!
Do you think they sound more Math rock or Post-rock? Those are some questions we get into!
Black Note Graffiti
We had a great conversation with Kris, Ricardo, and Gabby from the progressive/alt rock band, Black Note Graffiti.
The band talks about how their band has changed and progressed over a decade and what is in store for them this year. We hit on a quick segment into the late John Sinclair in regard to origins of Hash Bash as well as some festivals, Havoc Fest and Oscoda Rock Fest.
There are some excellent stories in this episode that you just cannot miss.
OCD/C
We had an awesome conversation with Kalamazoo's own OCD/C! A clever name for a great group of guys that exclusively play Bon Scott era AC/DC tunes. Sit back, relax, and learn about your new favorite Michigan rockers!
Learn more about OCD/C via their SOCIALS - also check out the Kalamazoo Valley Blues Association as well as their socials.
Sonic Coast
We met with Brian Maloney to learn about his new streaming music platform, Sonic Coast. A mix of national and local Michigan music playing together on an app 24/7. He is all about playing good music instead of fitting into a specific genre.
He talks about his 40+ year history in radio across the country and how Michigan has always been home to him. We discuss the curation process and the excitement this platform is gaining with local artists.
Listen and watch our great conversation with Brian to learn more about Sonic Coast and how he is blown away by the talent across the state that is unique when compared to the nation.
Kalamazoo State Theatre
Harry from the Kalamazoo State Theatre walks us through the history of this iconic venue in Kalamazoo. We learn of his story working at the Theatre two different times.
We talk about the some of the great artists that have graced the stage. Discuss ticket sales and working with brokers.
He hits on how important it is to build up the local music scene and how he and the venue are helping out in that area. Harry brings a lot of enthusiasm in this discussion about music.
WYCE 88.1 FM
We had the opportunity to step into the WYCE (88.1 FM) radio studio in Grand Rapids. Music & Program Director, Chris Cranick, and two-time Station Manager, Phil Tower, sat down to give us a detailed background on this terrestrial radio station.
We learned about the origin, how music can be added to their extensive library, the live curation that occurs with their volunteer DJs, and of course the Jammies.
It was a lot of fun recording in their studio.
Big B And The Actual Proof
We met Brian on the East side when we did our weekend of interviews. He’s been leading the charge on his band Big B And The Actual Proof. Check out his website for current shows, merch and more info!
If you think you might be interested in learning about a Buddhist Noir Multi-Media Artist - check out this interview with Big B himself! We show you the Actual Proof!
20 Front Street
Kevin walks us through the history of how 20 Front Street became a small intimate music venue in Lake Orion. We talk about the intention into the design, the green room, and some of the artists that have played here.
Listen to catch a glimpse into what a close personal music experience could look like for you in the future. We record or video live at the venue to give you a glimpse into the venue, too.
That Is A Wrap 2023
In this final episode of the year, Ryan and Jeff wrap up the year with a quick review, individual Spotify Wrapped results, and pay per stream across platforms. One of those streaming services will be the new home for Mitten Music playlists.
Haskins
We sat down with the band Haskins in their practice space in Plymouth on the day of their vinyl release party for their fourth album, Everywhere I've Ever Been.
We found out what inspired the Americana-Indie rock band's name, their writing process, and influences. This five-piece band sets aside time each week to get together outside of their busy family lives.
Dad's that are still rockin' and enjoying their time together. Dad Rock that has a great sound!!
Ava Swiss
Listen to our conversation with Ava Swiss, America's Got Talent (AGT) 2022 semi-finalist. We hear about her journey which started after she sang her version of "Rise Up" in her hometown of Oxford, MI, after a tragic school shooting. Her emotional performance for her classmates and a town in mourning at a vigil was seen my many across the state, country, and world.
AGT scouts, realizing her talent, reached out with an invitation to perform on the show. That led to her a semi-finals appearance and performances in Las Vegas with AGT Superstars.
We also touch on her debut EP, "What is Real Love?", that was released earlier this year along with some other ambitions she is exploring.
Listen in to our conversation that was recorded at 20 Front Street in Lake Orion, MI.