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: Jenner Fox
In the 82nd edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Pacific Northwest-based artist about influential points in his musical journey and the making of his new album.
First-Timers of Blue Ox Music Festival, Part One
Five acts who’ll play their first Blue Ox talk to us about their upcoming appearance at the Wisconsin roots music festival.
Show Review: The Cactus Blossoms & Jack Klatt at The Historic Auditorium in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin
Two Twin Cities acts brought live music to the newly reopened 1916 Wisconsin venue for the first time since its restoration.
About That Song: Molly Maher
In the 81st edition of our special interview series, Sarah talks to the Minnesota singer-songwriter, bandleader and festival organizer about game-changing songs and memorable moments in her artistic journey.
Music Review: Katy Tessman, ‘Turnbuckles’
The Minnesota artist’s new EP tells stories of struggle and connection.
About That Song: Molly Dean
In the 80th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the Minnesota-based songwriter about her gorgeous new album and one of the artists who set her on her musical journey.
Single & Video Premiere: Eli Gardiner, “Justice Is a River”
The outspoken Minnesota-based singer-songwriter delivers a new song that contemplates what we want and need in dangerous times. Hear it here first!
Annual FARM Gathering Attracts Folk Artists & Industry Pros From the Midwest & Beyond
Hear from attendees about last year’s event and learn about the 2025 conference coming up in October.
About That Song: Molly Brandt
In the 79th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the rising Minnesota alt-country artist about songs and experiences that helped shape her creative journey.
About That Song: Mother Coyote
In the 78th edition of our special series, Sarah talks to the South Dakota / Minnesota singer-songwriter about songs and experiences that helped shape her artistic journey.
Music Review: Matthew French, ‘Circles’
The Minneapolis folk singer-songwriter pours his heart into a new album that’s unafraid of big questions and vulnerability.
About That Song: Breanne Tepler of Breanne Marie and the Front Porch Sinners
In the 77th edition of our special series on songwriting, Sarah talks to the Duluth Minnesota-based Americana artist about game-changing songs in her artistic journey.
Show Review & Photo Gallery: FINICK, Emmy Woods & Eldest Daughter at Icehouse
The Minnesota teen’s album release show was a portrait of a rapidly growing artist.
About That Song: Mary Bragg
In the 76th edition of our special series, Sarah Morris asks the Nashville-based artist and record producer about songs that shaped her music journey.
Q&A With Eli Hoehn of the Minnesota Original Music Festival
The nonprofit’s director talks about how the Southern Minnesota music project came to be and what attendees can expect at its 2025 events.
Single Premiere: Emily Haavik, “If I Were a Ghost”
The rising Americana star follows up her breakthrough album ‘Wingspan’ with a new single. Hear it first here!
About That Song: Hemma
In the 75th edition of our special series, Sarah interviews the Midwest singer-songwriter about the songs that helped make her the artist she is today.
About That Song: Karan Casey
In the 74th edition of our special interview series, Sarah talks to the Irish folk artist about the song that set her on her artistic path and her own powerful songwriting.
About That Song: The Scarlet Goodbye
In the 73rd edition of our special series, singer-songwriter Sarah Morris interviews two members of the Minnesota alt-rock band about the songs that inspired them to become songwriters.
Music Review: Helene Cronin, ‘Maybe New Mexico’
The consummate storyteller’s new album brilliantly weaves together small human moments to reveal big universal truths.