Ben Levin’s “Holiday Blues Revue” features a blend of original tracks and classics co-produced with Matt Hueneman. Highlighting Levin’s piano skills and accompanied by notable musicians, songs like “Candy Cane” and “Elf Boogie” capture festive spirit. Levin, recognized for his talent, continues to celebrate blues music while touring.
Making a Scene features an interview with Joel Leviton of December Friend, a band formed during the pandemic. Collaborating remotely with friends Jeff Victor and John Wlaysewski, Leviton emphasizes the importance of meaningful songwriting, aiming for songs that resonate deeply with listeners without any filler.
Amy Speace’s album, The American Dream, explores themes of nostalgia, resilience, and emotional turmoil beyond just heartbreak. Through evocative lyrics and collaboration with talented musicians, she reflects on personal experiences, societal fragility, and the pursuit of dreams. The album showcases her growth as an artist and resonant storytelling.
Colin James, inspired by Stevie Ray Vaughan, has released twenty studio albums, winning eight Juno and thirty Maple Blues Awards. His new album “Chasing The Sun,” recorded with Colin Linden, features seven originals and four covers, showcasing James’ emotive vocals and exceptional guitar skills. A US tour is planned for January 2025.
Mike Zito, an acclaimed blues musician with a history of overcoming alcoholism, has released his latest album “Life Is Hard,” featuring collaborations with renowned artists. His journey includes multiple award-winning albums and founding The Royal Southern Brotherhood. Zito’s work reflects themes of redemption and resilience, earning him numerous Blues Music Awards throughout his career.
Making a Scene presents the “LIVE from the Midnight Circus” podcast featuring Bobby Messano, which showcases Indie Blues artists. Celebrating the genre’s roots while promoting innovation, these musicians produce original music that evokes deep emotional connections. The platform embraces a diverse and evolving blues scene, empowering both past and future generations.
Mississippi MacDonald, a three-time British Blues Award nominee from London, showcases his blues roots with his sixth album “I Got What You Need”. Influenced by icons like Muddy Waters and B.B. King, he combines original pieces with classic covers, highlighting a rich blend of soul-blues and instrumental shuffles.
Bobby Messano is a renowned guitarist and blues artist with a prolific career, releasing nine solo albums and contributing to over 70 albums. Notable works include “Love & Money,” “BAD MOVIE,” and “MUSIC & OTHER SUNDRIES.” His music spans various media, earning accolades like the Blues Blast Award nomination and the Best Americana Album award at the World Entertainment Awards.
The Cold Stares, a dynamic duo known for their intense live performances, expanded their lineup in 2023 to embrace a power trio format. Following the success of their acclaimed album “Voices,” they recorded “The Southern,” set for a 2024 release. Their music has gained significant recognition and feature placements across various media.
Dallas Orbiter, formed in 1999 in Minneapolis, evolved from previous bands, focusing on melodicism and improvisational freedom. They released multiple albums, including ‘There Are Machines for That’ and engaged in creative projects, notably a monthly single release from 2011. Recently, they recorded ‘Spaceman Things’ in 2023 and plan to share past jams under the alias Laser Bats from Mars.
Emily Duff, a NYC-born artist, blends Sweet & Sour Rock & Roll with Country Soul in her music, reflecting themes of heaven, hell, romance, and regret. Since 2015, she has released six albums and a four-song EP, touring in the US and UK and hosting a monthly residency at NYC’s COWGIRL.
Making a Scene’s podcast, Live from the Midnight Circus, showcases Indie Blues artists who honor traditional blues roots while innovating new music. Featuring artists like Andy Peake and Shemekia Copeland, it emphasizes the emotional depth and diversity of blues. The show promotes understanding and connection through the blues’ evolving art form.
Making a Scene presents “Turn It Up” with Gerry Casey, showcasing an array of musical talents and tracks in Show #267. Featured artists include Electric Mary, The Reverend Shaun Amos, JP Reali, Izzy Reign, and many others spanning genres from rock to blues. Notable songs include classics by Supertramp, LA Guns, and Prince.
Sarah Pierce, born in Rockford, Illinois, to a family of cattlemen, began singing in her stepfather’s band at 12. Despite her medical science degree, she pursued music, touring globally and appearing on MTV. With multiple acclaimed albums, including “Barbed Wire” and “Blessed By The West,” she remains a prominent figure in country music, gaining CMA awards and IWMA nominations.
Gerry Casey interviews Rusty Brown of Electric Mary, exploring the band’s journey following their inspiration at Jimi Hendrix’s Electric Lady Studios in 2003. From extensive Australian and European tours to releasing albums and EPs, Electric Mary returned in 2019 with their significant album “MOTHER,” showcasing their deep-rooted rock and blues heritage.
Kat Riggins, born in Miami, is a blues musician influenced by legends like Koko Taylor and Nina Simone. Her sixth album, “Revival,” co-written with Tim Mulberry, features ten original tracks blending blues, soul, and R&B. The album showcases themes of empowerment and nostalgia, highlighting Riggins’ vocal prowess and songwriting talent.
No Words ATL is a unique, community-driven 3-day instrumental music festival held across five venues in Atlanta from October 11 to 13. Showcasing twenty-two diverse performers ranging from classical to hip-hop, it offers a wordless musical experience. Headliners include Trap Jazz, Glenn Phillips, and Kebbi Williams. Tickets are $75 for three days or $30 per day.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Andy Peake Andy Peake has been surrounded by music since his formative days. His mother held a bachelor’s degree in music and sang and played professionally as a church support person. His influences included jazz, Broadway, classical and the pop music of the 1950s forward. He […]
Joy Clark’s album “Tell It to the Wind” highlights her journey as a Black, queer, Southern artist breaking through the music scene with support from artists like Brandi Carlile and Ani DiFranco. Produced by Margaret Becker, the album features themes of resilience, empowerment, and belonging, with a blend of gentle sonics and infectious choruses, marking Clark as an influential voice for survivors.
Hayes Carll and The Band of Heathens collaborate to create a dynamic musical experience, blending country and rock with exceptional songwriting and performances. Their debut features clever, humorous tracks marked by harmonious vocals and distinct styles, suggesting a promising partnership that could earn them supergroup status. Notably, the album highlights Carll’s artistic evolution.
Eric Bibb, son of Leon Bibb, grew up among legendary folk musicians and has released numerous albums over his career. His latest, “In The Real World,” is a collaborative effort recorded in Sweden, London, and Nashville. The album features diverse instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, exemplifying Bibb’s enduring artistry and storytelling prowess.
“Making a Scene Presents the LIVE from the Midnight Circus podcast, featuring Chris Daniels and the Kings. This show celebrates Indie Blues artists who innovate and honor the roots of blues. It showcases diverse, original music that connects emotionally with listeners, emphasizing truth and integrity in their creations.”
Gerry Casey’s Show #266 features Sky Wood of The Blues Chapter and includes a diverse playlist. Artists span rock and blues genres with tracks from Black Sabbath, Queen, The Blues Chapter, Judas Priest, and Jon Bon Jovi among others. Highlights include classics like “Paranoid,” “Barracuda,” and “Bittersweet Symphony.”
Jared McCloud transitioned from hard rock to a solo career, adopting a more substantive musical style. He found success with his indie debut “Romance Of The Atlantic” and continued to rise with “Painful Words Of Loving Grace”. After a difficult divorce, he crowdfunded his album “To Live And Die In Your Arms”, which achieved significant acclaim.
Gerry Casey interviews Sky Wood from The Blues Chapter, a band with an unstoppable combination of emotionally charged blues and pulsating rock ‘n’ roll. Tune in to hear their story and enjoy four dynamic tracks that showcase their powerful musical talent. Don’t miss this electrifying episode!
Chris Daniels & The Kings with Freddi Gowdy celebrate 40 years with live performances and two new albums, “40: Blues with Horns Volume II” and “BLUES WITH HORNS Volume I.” With frequent international tours and a distinguished history of collaborations, they continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their dynamic horn-driven sound.
Ollie Owens, a Canadian singer-songwriter, returns with her second album “Nowhere To Hide” after a family-raising hiatus. Produced by Bobby Blazier, the album, featuring tracks like “Solid Ground,” “Roots,” and covers “The Neighborhood” and “Lord Protect My Child,” blends themes of resilience, love, and personal experiences.
“Making a Scene Presents the PODCAST of LIVE from the Midnight Circus Featuring Rev Freakchild, celebrating Indie Blues artists who honor the genre’s roots while driving its evolution. Tune in for innovative, emotional, and original music from current touring musicians deeply influenced by blues tradition.”
Randall Bramblett, a seasoned musician revered for his contributions to American roots music, showcases a blend of past experiences and present reflections in his thirteenth album, Paradise Breakdown. Celebrated for his lyrical prowess, Bramblett collaborates with renowned artists, offering a mix of soulful tracks and a testament to his enduring creative spirit.
Gerry Casey’s Show #265 features guest OTIS and highlights a variety of rock and blues artists, including The Cold Stares, Myles Kennedy, Samantha Fish, and Motorhead. The playlist includes tracks like “Last Fool In The Line” by OTIS and “You Really Got Me” by Ray Davies/Metallica.
Gerry Casey interviews Boone Froggett of OTIS, a blues-based rock band from Kentucky, known for their deep musical roots in country-rock, bluegrass, gospel, and folk. Influenced by legends like Muddy Waters, they gained fame after meeting ZZ Top’s Billy F. Gibbons, leading to wider recognition and inclusion in a 2020 film soundtrack.
Michael Reynolds, former lead vocalist/songwriter for Pinmonkey, stepped away from music a decade ago but continued to write songs. His surprise return with the album “Tarnished Nickel Sky” under Blue Élan Records showcases a poetic and evocative style. This album features 11 self-penned tracks, reflecting his journey, emotions, and growth.
Ronnie Baker Brooks’ album “Blues In My DNA,” produced by Jim Gaines, marks his debut with Alligator Records. The album, featuring songs mostly written by Ronnie, showcases his dynamic guitar and vocal prowess. The tracks range from hard-rocking blues to soulful ballads, illustrating Ronnie’s deep blues roots and broad musical talent, ensuring wider recognition.
Jake Shimabukuro and Mick Fleetwood’s “Blues Experience” album showcases their collaboration, interpreting classic blues songs with an innovative touch. The album features notable tracks and contributions from renowned musicians, highlighting Shimabukuro’s ukulele prowess. Recognized globally, Jake has played with top artists and received prestigious accolades, making this album a notable release.
Interview with Reverend Freakchild highlights his solo acoustic performances, collaborations with top musicians, albums “The Bodhisattva Blues” and “Supramundane Blues,” and past band involvement. He’s performed at iconic venues, his music featured in media, and he currently studies divinity in Colorado, proclaiming music as his path to transcendence.
Making a Scene Presents “Turn it up with Gerry Casey Show #264” featuring Sons of Anarchy, Thorbjorn Risager & The Black Tornado, Tommy Castro, Johnny Winter, Megadeth, AC/DC, The Black Keys, and more artists. The show includes tracks like “Already Gone,” “War Machine,” “Dragula,” and “Heavy Soul.”
Carolyn Shulman, a Denver-based folk singer-songwriter, started her musical journey in childhood and performed extensively throughout her education and adulthood. Balancing music with a legal career and parenthood, she returned to music full-time in 2014. Her acclaimed debut album “Grenadine & Kerosene” led to significant recognition. Carolyn is set to release her new album, “Heart on a Wire,” in September 2024, exploring deeper themes with rich production.
Randy Lee Riviere’s “Concrete Blues,” produced by Grammy-winner Tom Hambridge, features all songs written by Riviere, except the title track co-written with Hambridge. Recorded at Nashville’s Soundstage Studios, the album includes notable musicians. Riviere, a wildlife biologist, intertwines his diverse songwriting with themes of the human condition and the natural landscape.
The Sons Of Liberty, a prominent Bristol-based hard rock band, have solidified their reputation through extensive touring and electrifying live performances. Their highly praised third album, “The Detail Is In The Devil,” includes hit singles like ‘Time To Fly’ and ‘Turn This Tide.’ They have also garnered accolades, including being voted 2020’s #4 band by the New Wave Of Classic Rock fan group.
Lurrie Bell and Frank Catalano’s album “Set Me Free” showcases an exceptional collaboration, blending blues and jazz seamlessly. Bell’s deep roots in blues and Catalano’s saxophone mastery create memorable renditions of classics like “The Sky is Crying” and “At Last”. This album stands out as one of the year’s finest, featuring exceptional musicianship and emotional depth.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Presents an Interview with March to August! March to August (M2A) is a Folk-Americana, original music duo whose songs offer audiences snapshots into the human condition, while encompassing the myriad of emotions that coincide with it. Hailing from diverse musical backgrounds, Derrick and Jodi Mears bring a unique blend of […]
Michael McDermott, an underrated yet brilliant singer-songwriter, releases two albums, “Lighthouse on the Shore” (acoustic) and “East Jesus” (electric), reflecting his dual personalities. His work is highly personal, addressing themes like addiction and perseverance. McDermott’s masterful lyrics and varied music make these albums rich and thought-provoking.
Piper & the Hard Times, a dynamic blues and roots music group from Nashville, won first place at the 2024 International Blues Challenge. Led by Al “Piper” Green, their debut album “Revelation” was released in August 2024, debuting at #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart. Known for their intense live performances and musical versatility, the band members bring significant experience and diverse influences, creating a captivating and lively experience for audiences.
A live set from the Gregg Allman Band at Uncle Sam’s in Boston, recorded on July 1st, 1983, has been released seven years after Gregg Allman’s passing. This inaugural release includes nine tracks, featuring Allman Brothers Band classics and solo pieces. Key contributors include former Allman Brothers members Dan and David Toler.
Vanessa Collier’s new album “Do It My Own Way” reflects her defiance of industry sexism, recorded independently to stay true to her vision. This eight-track album captures a retro feel with influences from Memphis’ Stax and Hi Records. With notable collaborations, Collier showcases her musical versatility in blending soul, vintage R&B, and early rock.
“Paradise Breakdown” by Randall Bramblett showcases his unique blend of blues, folk, gospel, rock, and soul through deeply drawn characters and abstract situations. Accompanied by longtime collaborators, Bramblett continues his 50-year musical journey, offering soulful, robust vocals, and poignant songwriting. The album features standout tracks with themes of love, recovery, and life’s unpredictabilities.
Brad Vickers, previously a bassist for notable artists, transitioned to guitar and formed The Vestapolitans with Margery Peters. Their music preserves blues and roots traditions. Their latest release, “Peace in My Time,” is a re-issue of 2010 songs, featuring new guitar solos by the late Jim Davis. The record is a tribute to Davis.
“Making a Scene’s podcast ‘LIVE from the Midnight Circus’ showcases the Trevor B. Power Band and other Indie Blues artists. Celebrating Blues’ diversity and innovation, the show honors past influences while empowering the future. Featuring a variety of musicians, it emphasizes truth and emotional connection in original music creations. Tune in for the Indie Blues Movement.”
“Making a Scene Presents Turn it up with Gerry Casey Show #263 features the Chase Walker Band with tracks like ‘Don’t Cry,’ ‘No Good,’ and ‘Move Ya.’ The show also includes songs by artists such as Oasis, Van Morrison, Rod Stewart, Bob Seger, and many more rock and roll favorites.”
Veteran LA violinist and songwriter Chris Murphy’s diverse musical journey blends genres and centuries, inspired by his Irish-Italian heritage and iconic musicians. Educated in Turkish and Indian music, he’s performed across the US and Europe, releasing over 15 albums and 500 works. Murphy views music as a fluid, transformative art form.
