COUNTRY/FOLK
- Pigeon
- Feb 24
- 34 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Media says: "Country music is all about pick-up trucks, beers, and women"
AGREE
DISAGREE
“Kíta, re mána” is a song that draws on epic and ecstatic elements of Greek traditional music to speak about human freedom through the acceptance of the necessity of their instincts. It is a song about the internalized struggle between the concept of the “mother” and the figure of the “devil.”
With "Intersection," Michellar ventures into new territory, marking her first foray into Americana folk music. The recording process, which took place in Staffordshire, UK at Tobias Wilson Recording Studios, was a unique experience that allowed Michellar to fully realize her creative vision. By infusing the track with elements that capture the essence of her influences and personal storytelling, Michellar has created a song that stands out in her discography. As she continues to evolve as an artist, Michellar's future performances promise to captivate audiences and showcase her talent in a live setting. Stay tuned for what's next from this rising star in the music industry.
INTERVIEW WITH ELEPHANT MOON
Elephant Moon isn’t confined by form, and this track perfectly captures that freedom. “Where Were You” weaves together melancholic folk, ambient cinematic Americana, and slowcore, creating a sound that’s both expansive and intimate.
A slow, raw, and dreamy track with an extended intro – it’s the perfect single.The song features a one-take acoustic guitar and vocal performance, layered with lap steel, sparse piano, and analog synths, creating a dreamy, immersive sound that drifts between space and time. It’s been described as a cross between Nick Drake and Mojave 3 and something inspired by “not enough sunlight and too much Skip Spence” – it’s haunting and hypnotic.
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
The Beatles. I was completely obsessed as a kid — they cracked something open in me early on. Funny thing is, I barely listen to them anymore.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
Don’t have one. This week though, I’m really into Herbie Mann at the Village Gate—especially Side A from the Atlantic pressing—and Anthology of the Blues – Texas Blues (Archive Series, Volume Five) from Kent Records. Both were £1 crate dig finds. Amazing what’s out there if you look hard enough.
(•)> What record from the 2020s do you replay the most?
Hard question? How about Donsya A’n Loryow by Daisy Rickman?
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
5 O'Clock On Sunday Morning by St James & The Holy Ghost on Bandcamp.
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
Well so far there’ve been no answers to where people were, when I planned to stay up all night and dance…?
But when people—not bots—reach out because the single moved them, that feels pretty special. Especially when they’re writing from far away, somewhere I’ve never been.
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
Other songwriters. Always have been. The ones who can conjure a whole different world from just a guitar and a voice—true heroes.
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
This past year I’ve rewatched Fargo, Spinal Tap, Withnail and I, Happiness… and recently thought about looking up Submarine again.
(•)> How is your perfect day?
Up early, walking the dog. Hang with people I love. Create something that didn’t exist the day before. Then lie in bed thinking, “Today was a good day, and I’m grateful.”
(•)> Will you tell us something embarrassing about you?
I once played an entire live set with my fly open. Only noticed after the encore.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
Not really, but I will occasionally practice harmonies if I’m recording.
(•)> What's your Hot Take – your most controversial music opinion?
If popularity meant quality, why are record store crates stuffed with yesterday’s hits nobody wants, while the albums that went unnoticed back then now fetch a fortune? Today, algorithms decide what we hear—but in a future where music leaves no physical trace, who decides what survives? And just because you can afford to press 300 vinyl copies doesn’t necessarily mean it’s any good—sometimes it just means your daddy’s rich.
.. "just because you can afford to press 300 vinyl copies doesn’t necessarily mean it’s any good—sometimes it just means your daddy’s rich"..
AGREE
DISAGREE
This isn’t polished pop-country. This is two brothers, a busted-up heart, and a wingman called bourbon. “Romantic Side” is the lead single from Wattmore’s upcoming project — a raw, genre-blending ode to love before screens, swipes, and perfectly filtered lives. Written by Australian brothers Wattmore, the track combines the twang of country, the swagger of Americana, and a gritty undercurrent of rockabilly — think bourbon-soaked storytelling meets jukebox confession. Co-written with Allan Caswell and produced by Lindsay Waddington, it balances nostalgic wit with vulnerable truth.
“Yuri hails from Pensylvania and has a distinctive style that’s all the richness of traditional folk played on a dark foundation that feels like touches of folk punk are twisted into the mix just under the surface. It’s a compelling listen as the style winds its way through timeless songs and into the confessional originals and back again… The instruments are warm and live sounding in a way that’s rich and timeless, echoing a classic vision that is also contemporary in depth and in the manner in which the darkness is revealed. At times you sense a Violent Femmes energy pulsing beneath the surface of these folk songs as Yuri Gohen crafts them, if you listen with your head tilted the right way.”
"Shipwrecks" by Adam Wedd is a captivating original video that captures the essence of heartbreak and resilience. The accompanying music video, filmed and edited by Robert Pocknall at Cardinal Broadcast, visually complements the melancholic yet beautiful narrative woven throughout the song. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, Adam and his collaborators, including Grammy-nominated Ramera Abrahams, have crafted a piece that transcends mere music, offering listeners a glimpse into the depths of human emotion.
INTERVIEW WITH LOST LOT
Lost Lot are an alt-country band from the North East, blending heartfelt songwriting with rich Americana textures. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit, Wilco, The Milk Carton Kids and Bruce Springsteen, their sound balances grit and grace, combining storytelling lyrics with layered melodies. Whether performing stripped-back or full-band, Lost Lot deliver songs that feel both timeless and immediate.
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
The first thing that made me want to be a musician and play in bands was probably School Of Rock! I came out from the theatre just wanting to be in a band.
I started asking my dad about bands that he liked and it sent me down a very deep rabbit hole.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
Southeastern by Jason Isbell - perfect from start to finish.
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
Recently I have been listening to Sierra Ferrell’s Trial By Flowers on repeat. It is a stunner 😍
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Carolina Confessions by Marcus King, some of the guitar work on that record is SUBLIME
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
A man came up to me and told me that our song, Ghost, had helped him move on in life following the death of his daughter and thanked me for writing it. I don’t know how to describe the emotion that a comment like that makes you feel.
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
Ordinary people going through the ordinary struggles that we all face - that and my family.
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
I don’t rewatch that many films, but I’ll watch Jurassic Park at any given opportunity
(•)> How is your perfect day?
My perfect day would involved exploring a new place, finding a little record shop, grabbing an unexpected bargain and then enjoying a coffee in the sunshine.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarassing about you?
I once won a frisbee in a dancing competition after busting some moves to Right Said Fred’s “I’m Too Sexy”
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
Of course! When I was a kid it was an ambitious take on Whitney Houston, I knew I was destined to be a musician when my dad politely asked me to stop.
(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?
Miley Cyrus has one of the best country voices in modern musical history
INTERVIEW WITH JACOB IFANS
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
Growing up in a musical family and being surrounded by a folk music scene in rural West Wales definitely had a large impact on me musically and continues to to this day.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
Very difficult decision! And depends on the day! But an all time favourite would a tear up between 'Cold Fact', Rodriguez and 'Songs of Leonard Cohen', Leonard Cohen .
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
Oh it’s got to be 'Look over the Wall, See the Sky' by John Francis Flynn
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Jake Xerxes Fussell!!
Traditional country music torchbearer Richard Lynch continues his mission of faith, storytelling, and timeless country music with the release of his new single, “The Phone Call". “The Phone Call” has been newly revisited for this collection of spiritual and inspirational songs. Written straight from the heart, the song recounts an emotional exchange between old friends, sparked by the healing power of music and a renewed commitment to faith. With poignant lyrics like “I’m giving my troubles to Jesus, starting now,” Lynch offers a powerful message of redemption and the life-changing impact of grace. Lynch explains, “Sometimes a simple phone call can change a life. This song reminds us that it’s never too late to turn things around and give your heart to Jesus. I wanted to give this song a new life on Pray on the Radio because its message is needed now more than ever.”
Singer-songwriter, yoga facilitator and breathwork practitioner Lena Younes announces the release of her debut album, Ways of the Dreamer, a deeply personal collection of nine songs exploring healing, motherhood, and ancestral connection.
For fans of Bonnie 'Prince' Bill, Smog, Silver Jews, etc. You get the idea.
"I've always been fascinated by this song by Paul Anka. It's something about its atmosphere, its feeling: The eerieness and melancholia, really undermining the rather saccharine lyrics. I persuaded my wife to sing the soprano part, which she did just fine."
INTERVIEW WITH FOAM
FOAM'S HOT TAKE: A great amount of music acts in the mainstream are completely fake and inauthentic. Their sound is performative and does not represent the true nature of their soul.
FOAM is a raw-sounding music project that blends gritty, off-kilter textures with the catchiness of pop. Rooted in non-conformity and individualism, FOAM rejects polish in favor of something more real, more human, and deliberately out of step.
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
My household was always playing music and music was always something that had in impact on me from a very young age. I started playing instruments at maybe 5 years old starting with violin. I eventually made my way to guitar with lessons and I hated it at first. Then I started to enjoy it later on in life once I started making my own music and songwriting.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
There's a lot. The first few that come to mine are Rubber Soul by the Beatles, Revolver by the Beatles, In the Aeroplane Over the Sea by Neutral Milk Hotel, Fire of Love by the Gun Club, and In Utero by Nirvana.
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
I don't really listen to much modern music, I think a lot of it isn't THAT great or special. Maybe Greta Van Fleet's the Battle at Gardens Gate. It's a super cool album I enjoy it a lot but I haven't listened to it much recently.
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Listen to The Bug Club. Super cool band, I love their sound and their unseriousness in lyrics.
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
I'm not sure what this question means?
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
Kurt Cobain is the greatest song writer of all time.
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
A few, I enjoy the Star Wars franchise, I like Midsommar, Interstellar, and Mid-90s as well.
(•)> How is your perfect day?
Wake up, have some coffee and some snus, bathe in the sun, read a bit, write and fiddle with my guitar, try to find something fun to do at night although life can be immeasurably boring, and then watch an Arsenal match, then sleep.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarassing about you?
I don't know how to sing for shit.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
My own songs, good time to practice.
INTERVIEW WITH MY NEW MIXTAPE
"My New Mixtape is the musical alter-ego of American producer/multi-instrumentalist Jarrett Nicolay (Alexandria, Virginia) and has been described as “existential dread pop". Nicolay’s newest single “Who’s Your Daddy?” obviously leans more “existential dread” than “pop” but still manages to be an all-encompassing ear worm."
"In these unsettling and unpredictable times regardless of your own personal belief system, “Who’s Your Daddy?” is an open letter to the Trump voter asking the tough questions…
Are you happy now? Are you better off? And the titular question… Who’s your daddy?"
"Blending dystopian hopelessness with a hint of insult comic, My New Mixtape attempts to expose the hypocrisy and disconnect of the fetish level Freedom obsessed, Christian Trump supporter and their faithless leader. Spoiler Alert… it doesn’t end well."
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
I’m not really sure. It was more like a switch that’s been turned on since before I can remember. Music and sound in general has always been fascinating to me.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
All I can say is that if I had to pick one right now it’d probably be Korolen by Toumani Diabate. Obsessed with it. But I’d expect a completely different answer to that question by next week.
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
I think I’ve officially heard it too much but the last record I couldn’t stop listening to was Punisher / Phoebe Bridgers. Tony Berg (producer) is an inspiration. That was the perfect record for a pandemic.
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
There’s an indie band called “Hipster Fire”that released 24 albums last year as well as a handful of EPs and singles. And the songs have outrageous titles. Give them a spin for sure!
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
I’ve been heartened and humbled by the response to this latest song. It makes me feel a little less overwhelmed about the current political shitshow.. the fact that so many people seem to be in the same page and motivated to fix this is inspiring. I want Bernie Sanders to hear this song :)
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
Like I said earlier.. Tony Berg is an amazing and creative producer. Also, my 2 elderly chihuahua mutts are pretty inspiring.
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
The original Willy Wonka movie. By a mile.
(•)> How is your perfect day?
My perfect day would be if I suddenly became lactose tolerant. I’d drink milkshakes and eat grilled cheese sandwiches until I barfed.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarrassing about you?
I’m lactose intolerant. And I’m not wearing pants right now.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
I actually don’t. But if I did it’d be “Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places” by Johnny Lee. I do occasionally write lyrics in the shower tho..
(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?
Yoko Ono > Janis Joplin… because at least she’s trying to annoy the listener.
The Beach Boys are the most overrated band in history and have more in common with the Monkees than the Beatles.
INTERVIEW WITH ADAM MOE
I love classic country music, and it's one of the genres that I grew up listening to. The first song I ever learned the lyrics to was One Piece at a Time, the Johnny Cash 45 I played until the needle wore through it. I wasn't even in Kindergarten, but I could perform a song about stealing a car from the factory over the course of several years. Once I started writing with a purpose, many of my songs had that classic country flavor, and when I started pulling things together for this album, it became clear that I was going to go for a retro-country sound.
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
My earliest musical memories have to do with listening to Beach Boys, Johnny Cash, and Fats Domino albums on a little red, plastic record player. So I guess you could say I’ve always been a throwback. I wore Johnny Cash out, and accidentally left Fats Domino in the sun and warped it beyond playing. I was so distraught that Mom and Dad had to find me another copy.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
Favorite anything is a tough call! One of the most important recordings for me, and one that I go back to over and over, is Simon and Garfunkel’s Sounds of Silence album (I’m not sure that I’ve ever listened to anything contemporary). It was my go-to listen as a moody teen since there is only one happy song on the whole thing. It also taught me harmony singing, because I’d spend hours looking for third parts among the harmonies they were singing, quite a challenge since Garfunkel’s harmonic choices aren’t at all typical.
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
Honestly, I can’t say that I replay any albums released in the past five years. I’m still catching up on music that’s older than I am. It’s not that there aren’t good records; it’s just that there are more records than I’ll ever be able to listen to! And like anyone else, I have comfort music. For me, that’s deep cuts in classic country recordings.
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Well, the best I can do here is list out a few of the things I’ve been listening to. Oddly, most of my recent listening has been in early rhythm and blues. I found Sugar Pie DeSanto recently, and she’s great. Same with Wynona Carr. I’ve also been loving Georgie Fame and the Blue Flames as of late, a group I’ve been going back to off and on since I heard them on the soundtrack of The Queen’s Gambit. And I’ve discovered more cool stuff on an online radio station called The Wax Altar. It’s the most eclectic and amazing thing going right now online, in my opinion. A crazy conglomeration of things you’ve never heard, all on vinyl. If all else fails, there’s always country music from the 40s to the 70’s – Roger Miller especially.
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
I think the most lasting comments have come from truckers. I’ve written and recorded a few trucking songs, and after a few live performances, I’ve been approached by a couple of OTR folks. They’ve told me they really appreciated those tunes. And the critical support for Leaving Can’t Be Wrong, my first solo album, has been outstanding. So many people have said so many nice things about all aspects of it that it’s been a little overwhelming. Frankly, I’m just glad that a lot of people have been listening and seem to understand what I am going for with it. It’s been really rewarding.
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
I guess, more than anything, I think about my family when I write – both my parents and my sister (and her family) and also my wife. Sometimes I’ll write a song with a recording artist from the past in mind. I’ve written many songs thinking about Roger Miller, for example. On my current recording, there’s a song I wrote for Charlie Rich. Of course, he’s been gone a long time and will never know about it, but in my heart I know he would have killed with Fool on the Stool Next To You! If people request a Waylon song, I can do it, but I’ve also been known to play an original that I wrote with him in mind.
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
I love horror films, and one I always go back to is Zombie, the 1979 Italian film by Lucio Fulci. A movie that features an underwater fight between a zombie and a real shark? It’s like Fulci was reading my diary!
(•)> How is your perfect day?
Any day without worry or responsibility would be pretty great. Throw in a nap, some time with my wife and my dog, and good news in the mailbox, and I couldn’t be happier.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarrassing about you?
If I’m not playing a show, I go to bed around 8 pm. I don’t go to sleep until past midnight, but I read and write and mess around online. I should probably stop that, eh?
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
I don’t usually, but if I sing in the shower it’s generally the last song I heard before heading in. I’m like that. The last song I hear in the car will stick in my brain until I hear another song later in the day. I am more than a little impacted by earworms.
(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?
The two most overrated bands in history are The Eagles and Fleetwood Mac, and whenever they come on the car radio, I turn to a different station. I know they are staples for so many, but they aren’t for me.
La Need Machine’s new album -- Pourquoi? C’est L’Amour! -- showcases the band’s clever songwriting skills and passionate musical aptitude. La Need Machine stand out by combining soaring harmonies, insightful lyrics, and contagious rhythms to power the band’s innovative sound. Pourquoi? C’est L’Amour! joins these elements into a stronger whole that gives the album a hopeful, positive and uplifting vibe. Neurodivergent Lead Singer Elise is not afraid to talk about her successful life with Autism.
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
Listening to the radio in the car.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
London Calling
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
Sam Fender -- People Watching
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Sam Fender
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
Our Lead Singer Elise is Autistic so she will sometimes give blunt answers that crack us up!
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
My wife and my mom
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
The Godfather
(•)> How is your perfect day?
Play guitar; go for a long run; play guitar; make whoopi
(•)> Will you tell us something embarassing about you?
No!
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
Hamilton the Musical
(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?
Streaming music is great -- it allows you to listen to lots of artists. But playing vinyl or cds on a great stereo can't be beat.
Award-winning country powerhouse Pamela Hopkins is back with another unapologetic anthem, “Me Being Me". The single is pulled from her Arkansas Country Music Awards-nominated and International Singer Songwriters Association-nominated album, Lord Knows I Ain’t No Saint—a collection that showcases her signature blend of fiery honesty, southern sass, and emotional grit.
Written by hitmakers Vickie McGehee, D. Vincent Williams, and Jim Femino, “Me Being Me” is a full-throttle declaration of self-acceptance. With driving instrumentals and lyrics that pull no punches, Hopkins owns every inch of her identity: wild, free-spirited, and unwilling to apologize for it. The chorus is a fierce middle finger to societal expectations—“If you don’t like what you see / I don’t know what you want me to tell you, darlin’ / That’s just me / Me being me.”
While the track packs plenty of attitude, it also carries deep personal meaning for Pamela. The song was pitched to her by the late Jim Femino, whose mentorship marked a pivotal moment in her songwriting journey.
“Jim was in the hospital the day we were supposed to meet in Nashville,” recalls Hopkins. “I offered to bring him anything he needed, and we ended up just visiting and talking music. He played me some songs on his laptop from his hospital bed, and ‘Me Being Me’ was one of them. It instantly felt like my story.”
Though originally recorded alongside other Femino-penned tracks for her debut album, Hopkins waited until now to share “Me Being Me” with the world—finally confident that her voice did the song justice.
“This one always hit home for me, and the title of my latest album actually comes from a line in this song,” she adds. “Jim passed away a few years ago, and I never got to co-write with him like we planned. But I’m honored to carry a piece of him in this release.”
Formed in late 2010 by Utah Burgess of Shady Lady Studio Productions and Records, Noble Hops has developed a distinct and compelling blend of American rock and alt-country. Known for their authentic storytelling and wide-ranging themes—from introspective musings and self examination to reflections on modern American life—the band has consistently connected with audiences across the country. In celebration of their new collaboration, Noble Hops has released their latest single, “Kelso Beach,” a track that captures the essence of their sound and lyrics.
Written and sung by Don Sechelski, is a wistful, endearing narrative about the bond between a father and son. The beginning of baseball season in the U.S is a reminder that the game endures across the generations.
"Jack Horton is back with his second EP in a year: Imperfections, a five-song collection that blends storytelling with polished musicianship. The pianist’s and songwriter’s release features four original songs and a fresh take on a Jim Croce classic."
"Horton is releasing one song a month from the EP, starting in April, with the last song being released in August. Leading the EP is Set Me Free, a song born from personal transformation and letting go. I’m grateful for my divorce,” Horton says. “Without it, I’d never have written Set Me Free, which is about loving someone enough to let them go.”
*Girl in the Box* uses the magician and assistant metaphor to depict an abusive relationship. Magician's assistants, called "box jumpers," contort their bodies to create illusions attributed to the magician's magic. The music incorporates time glitches to reflect the skewed power dynamic between the musician and the assistant. It’s a folk song with amodern twist.
I wrote it just days before my family and I left Israel, stepping into the unknown with nothing but a few suitcases, a guitar, and a dream of starting over in Australia. Amidst the chaos of packing and painful goodbyes, this song became my anchor—a way to process the overwhelming mix of fear, hope, and love.
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
I started playing piano when I was 5 and since a young age have been coming up with songs. In high school i went to an arts school where I majored in music and took up Guitar, Singing and Composition in addition to the piano which really solidified my musical path in life. i went on to do a Bachelors and Masters in Music.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
Oooh good one and a hard one. I'd say Queen greatest hits 1981
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
It's a little earlier, it's from 2010 but Laura Marlin - I Speak Because I can. Laura Marlin is such a beautiful songwriter and there is a lot of strong femininity in this album that I resonate with.
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Well if you haven't heard 'All About Life' I;d love to hear what you think and you can look out in the next coule of months for 'Feel Alright' my thrid single.
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
I've had people tell me my songs are on repeat in their house which was wonderful to hear, and after one radio interview, the presenter said that I was "probably one of the most interesting and intelligent people I hace met, could have talked forever" to which I am forever humbled. A really really special message.
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
It depends what mood I am in. If I am creating music as an outlet because I have too many feelings built up and I need to get them out I can be inspired by the drama of Beethoven alongside the emotionality of Dave Matthews with the hurt soul of the grunge legends.
If I am story telling it will I can be inspired from Dylan, Marlin, Nick Drake, Suzanne Vega.
I don't know its very dynamic.
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
I don't know about films but I can rewatch Seinfeld, it definitely stands the test of time, Friends too.
(•)> How is your perfect day?
Spending hours playing music and looping and then performing.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarassing about you?
When I have adrenaline or excited and someone compliments me I say stupid things. I am excited as it is and the compliment just makes me want to share the love back so I speak and don't think.
The first time I performed in a festival, I was so excited after and the festival director came to me to tell me they loved my performance and would love to have me back, which shot my levels of excitment through the roof and lead me to say that 'I was so excited to lose my virginity to the festival'. Once the words left my lips my brain was screaming inside in slow motion nooooooooooooooooooo, there was an awkward silence and I tried to explain it was my first festival. Anyways, yep, that's def one of the top embarrasing things that have happened.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
I actually don't, i do warm ups in the shower but no singing, I sing on stage baby :)
"LOVE EARTH not only showcases Michellar's poignant lyrics and melodious compositions but also delivers a powerful message of unity and awareness. In a world facing environmental challenges, Michellar's music serves as a call to action, reminding us of our collective responsibility to protect the Earth. Recorded in San Francisco and expertly mixed and mastered in the UK, this collaboration between Michellar and Tobias Wilson transcends boundaries, creating a truly unique and impactful musical experience that will resonate with listeners for years to come."
INTERVIEW WITH JACK ROBSON
"Run Miles" delves into the complexities of relationships, both earthly and divine. With heartfelt lyrics that capture the struggles and hopes intertwined in human connections, this single offers a poignant narrative of vulnerability and resilience. Jack's unique blend of musical styles and introspective storytelling sets "Run Miles" apart, making it a standout addition to his discography. As Jack embarks on this musical journey, his aim is to resonate with listeners on a deeply human level, offering a message of hope and healing through the power of music."
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
I was very young, hearing such an eclectic mix of music in my house that came from my Dad, my Mum, and one of my siblings. There was so much variety of music coming through. My parents could tell I enjoyed it, and quickly put a recorder in my hand. Not long after, it was a guitar, and the rest is history as they say. I began writing songs aged 5, singing fun dittys as I went about my day, and as the years went on I began picking up a few more instruments along the way too. Dad and Mum, as well as music teachers, helped me begin to hone my craft for what I heard, what I played, and what I crafted myself. It wasn't long before my own record collection began stacking up too which also reflected the incredible eclectic mix that has informed my own writing nowadays.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
Gosh, now this is a hard question! There really are SO many! When an album tells a story from start to finish and has me hooked throughout it ends up on play in my house for life, pretty much. I tend to go through bursts of then hitting those albums on repeat. I sort of fell, if you ask me this question tomorrow, I'd probably have a different answer. So, I'm sort of approaching actually answering this from an "if I was banned from ever listening to an album again" standpoint, what album would I struggle to never hear again and right now it'd have to be Anti by Rihanna.
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
Again, so many, but, the one I come back to most often is probably "Nova" by Falcon.
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Gah! So many artists and so many songs. At the moment I'm such an evangelist for Aurora (if you've never heard her stuff, definitely check it out)! I have her latest album on REPEAT, and absolutely love her entire discography. I bounce about her records so much because there's so much gold hidden within them.
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
It's hearing how the songs or body of work lands for people. They're written from my own experiences, questions, wrestlings, and dreams, so to hear someone else's own experience from engaging with one of my songs is profound. I love hearing how my own expressions of worship (some more overt than others), faith, spirituality, and lived experiences, all wrapped up in my expression of art, then gets translated back to me; I find it truly beautiful to hear a fresh take or newfound facet to my music.
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
Again, so many people! The list is probably endless when it comes to artists, and there's so many artists I've not even heard yet to be inspired by. Nature and life in general also inspire the poetry and lyrical side to what and how I write, as well as Jesus. For me, everything I do is for Him and because of Him, so He definitely takes centre stage. As of late though, I've been drawing a lot of inspiration from some Christian artists such as Amanda Cook, Kristene DiMarco, Steffany Gretzinger, Harvest Bashta, Young Oceans, and LOVKN, but I am constantly inspired by so many others too, artists such as Aurora, The 1975, Tame Impala, and Taylor Swift have all played a massive part in my own artistry in recent years.
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
Less of a film, more of a franchise (and more often than not the TV series over the films), it's Star Trek and will always be Star Trek for me!
(•)> How is your perfect day?
It involves good food, good company, getting out and about (preferrably into some mountains if I can, and even better if it can be mountains and lakes), probably cuddling a dog somewhere in the day, a good soak in the bathtub with good lighting and great music to just soak to, time in a good story (whether film, TV, or book), and lots and lots of laughter.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarassing about you?
To keep to the theme of all the other questions... I have so many stories I could tell, some less appropriate for the internet (or at least, I'd like to keep under wraps for a while longer). I once tried to temporarily dye my hair black for Comic Con (that's a whole other story), but, when it came to wash the dye out, once the water turned clear, I got out the shower, looked in the mirror, and my hair was still jet black. That stayed with me for MONTHS, and, obviously, I couldn't really hide it. My friends did a great job of constantly reminding me (and they still love to remind me to this day)! I grew it out, cut it off, and tried to learn my lesson... or there abouts.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
Oh my gosh, of course, everyday, all day! It's typically whatever's in my head, or, whatever I was last listening to. But, on occasion, the most random songs comes back to mind that I haven't listened to for years, and I find myself bopping away like I used to do when in my bedroom as a kid.
(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?
I am not a fan of Michael's Bublé's Christmas albums. I'm just not. That may be heretical, or I may be shouted down, but, I'd rather the original or another cover any day. I'm sure the man is great (and if in the right mood I do enjoy his own music and can even stretch to enjoying his Christmas covers), but when it comes to Christmas music, I cannot stand it being a Bublé cover and just have to have another cover or the pure original . I love it through and through and can definitely annoy friends and family with how often I'll sing away "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas", full volume, at random intervals and moments, as Christmas draws closer (other hot take, I have a week or two of Christmas in June/July just to get my Christmas music fix).
"An atmospheric journey where beauty, music, and emotion intertwine to cleanse the mind and uplift the soul."
"Get Back Train is a song as old as sound itself (at least, recorded filaments): the age of steam power in full effect at the dawn of sound-capturing technology. And so it should come as no surprise that those earliest blues hold that sound in memory. The train is a symbol & as sonics, as a lover’s lament and & pains of distance —the sound of something coming around the bend — or maybe, the sound of someone coming home again. We recorded this song in the dark — the band isolated to emphasize the night around us, just like listening to those distant trains. Listen to Seth Barden's pulsing bass line, Joseph Yount's churning snare, and Eric Burns' rolling guitar, and you'll hear steel wheels & low rumbles, the trackbed for licks of voice & slide guitar."
"Someone To Hold Me is about Barbie, the woman who helped Lucas' grandmother stay at home in her final years. Barbie was a troubled soul with a heart full of love and longing. Though her own worst enemy at times, her songs and poetry and carved canes speak to her depth. With words like "men came to her and through her" it's no wonder Lucas Pasley is enjoying support for his incredibly heartfelt work."
"This is a comedy song topical to New York City in the vein of Weird Al or Flight of the Concords. Stephen Webber is an Emmy-winning composer, Grammy-nominated producer, musician, author, speaker, and a leading innovator in music and the performing arts."
Drawing inspiration from iconic acts like Bob Dylan and The Band, The Rotor Delta infuses their music with a timeless Americana vibe. "The Boys from Waterloo" weaves together influences from the artist's personal experiences and musical journey, creating a melodic tapestry that resonates with listeners. With a production process steeped in memories and reflection, this single stands as a testament to over three decades of musical dedication and the enduring power of friendship in the artist's life.
"Reflection and gratitude knock on our doors once again, this time with the help of Dean Carter's latest album 'Wheel of the Year'."
INTERVIEW WITH THE IMMACULATE CROWS
(•)> Cru cru, what first got you into music?
Probably the Beatles. They were talented musicians and very popular. They also had a great sense of humor.
(•)> What or who is your inspiration to create music?
I respect and love many artists and many genres of music. Some of the first artists that inspired me were The Paul Butterfield Blues Band. Their second album 'East-West' had two incredible instrumentals. The Blues Project was another(their Live at the Cafe Au Go Go)was pretty exciting. The Yardbirds were a huge influence as they had Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page playing guitar for them at different times. The Jefferson Airplane and Bob Dylan were also very inspiring and locally there was a Brisbane band called The Purple Hearts that had a guitarist called Lobby Lyde who was regarded as Australia's first guitar hero. Both my father and older brother helped also. Dad loved Jazz and my brother was always turning me onto new Rock artists.
(•)> What's your most controversial music opinion?
I don't think I have any but I write controversial songs occasionally such as Dingo which I wrote, performed, and recorded in 1982 which was inspired by a baby that a Dingo killed. I also wrote Dolly which was inspired by a youth suicide and For Hannah which was about a particularly brutal domestic violence incident where the mother and children were locked in their car and set alight. Finally, I wrote a song called Anti-Vaxxer about conspiracy theorists which has offended a few Anti-Vaxxers.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarrassing about you?
I am probably one of the few people left in the world that gets breakfast in bed from my lovely wife Carolyn who is also our producer.
(•)> How is your perfect day?
I don't know if I have ever had a perfect day but there have been a lot of nice ones and others I would rather forget.
(•)> What memorable responses have you had to your work so far?
I have had some good reviews and I have had some good feedback from some radio presenters as well.
(•)> Do you see yourself as a music nerd?
I guess so. I have many Spotify playlists and spend a lot of time working on them.
(•)> What album do you replay the most?
I listen to so much different music that I don't fixate on any one artist or album. There is so much good music out there.
(•)> What's your favorite movie?
Babes in Toyland starring Laurel and Hardy. This is pretty old and I don't know if it still exists but it was very absurd and funny.
(•)> Can you remember any jazz records in your dad's collection? If yes, what were your favorites?
Memphis Underground by Herbie Mann. This featured some amazing guitars from Sonny Sharrock and Larry Coryell. Jimmy and Wes: The Dynamic Duo (which featured Wes Montgomery on guitar and Jimmy Smith on organ. Put On A Happy Face by the Oscar Peterson trio. He also had an amazing album by a Surf Rock band called The Crossfires that had some great solos and plenty of Fuzz guitar. I cannot remember what it was called now(possibly Guitars In Motion?).
(•)> What release would you recommend me from the Yardbirds?
The album is just called The Yardbirds although some people refer to it as Roger The Engineer. It featured some great guitar work from Jeff Beck.
(•)> Do you agree with the Pigeon?
I am not sure what you mean exactly but I am sure I would agree with you about some things and maybe not others. Lol
INTERVIEW WITH CALAMITY JAY
"Sea and sky, freedom and loneliness and the personification of the wanderer/pirate are metaphors for the decision not to submit to society's idea of how a person should define their existence. It is a greeting to the universe that seems to have a plan for us, an invitation to dream and a joyful hymn to freedom that makes us reconsider the true values of our lives that inspire or animate us."
(•)> cru cru, what first got you into music?
Rahel & JayC: Hello Pigeon! As we're a songwriting duo, Rahel (vocals) and I'm JayC (all guitars) with a backing band, if you agree, we'll give you an answer from each of us.
Rahel : Definitely my mother, always singing with her children before going to bed; this put us in a good mood, with pictures in our children heads and hearts ready to dream our next adventure. And it was also a daily routine to be together with the family”.
JayC : When I was eleven, I listened to a record called “Deep Purple in Rock” at a friend's house. The sound of the guitars on that album literally blew me away. That day, although I didn't know it at the time, changed my life.
(•)> Rahel, can you remember any of the lullabies your mother used to sing to put you asleep?
Rahel : No real lullabies, actually, we sang together for example “Die Gedanken sind frei” and “Es waren zwei Königskinder“ from August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben but also traditional folk songs like “Muss i denn zum Städele hinaus“ also known as “Wooden heart” from Elvis Presley.”
(•)> JayC, When I dove through their discography, I enjoyed "Machine Head" and "Made In Japan" the most, but "Deep Purple In Rock" was also a blast and the album cover is no less that iconic!!! Are you still a fan? Have you ever seen Deep Purple live? What's their magnum opus?
JayC : Yes, I like those records too. I've seen the band several times with different line-up on stage. But really, my favorite song and album is Perfect Stranger.
(•)> Rahel. will you tell us something embarrassing about you?
Rahel : No, I’m definitely just embarrassingly perfect.
(•)> JayC, besides Deep Purple, what other rock bands mean the world to you?
JayC: There are many bands to mention, but my latest favourite is definitely "Greta Van Fleet".
(•)> What are your thoughts on "Encores" (the ultimate song after a gig)?
Rahel & JayC: That is one of the most valorizing reactions from your audience and gives to the band the opportunity to close the concert together in a festive and informal atmosphere. I often wonder why people leave a really good concert or show almost before the final end, sorry, this is a lack of respect for the artist’s work.
(•)> What's the setlist when you're performing in the shower?
Rahel: Performing under the shower? All songs that just came into my mind in a blubbering underwater version.
JayC: In the shower ? All of our songs that I have to work on ... Lol
INTERVIEW WITH MELISSA ENGLEMAN
"Recorded at Plaid Dog Studios in Boston, MA, with additional vocals at Craftsman Recording in Austin, TX the EP showcases Melissa's sincere, heart-wrenching vocals and introspective songwriting. From the twangy ballad "For As Long As My Heart Would Let Me" to the 90s-inspired "Say Goodbye," each track on the EP invites listeners on a cathartic journey of self-acceptance and empowerment. Despite facing challenges like a cancer diagnosis and pandemic-related delays, Melissa has persevered, delivering a collection of songs that are both haunting and healing. Melissa Engleman, who after a twenty-year love affair with the Austin music scene is now in Lockhart, Texas. She is a singer-songwriter who seamlessly blends vulnerability with toughness and brilliantly fuses singer-songwriter folk with alt-country and whispers of the blues. With influences ranging from Willie Nelson to Tori Amos, Melissa's music delves into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery."
(•)> Cru cru Melissa Engleman, what first got you into music?
It was a part of me ever since I can remember. I wrote poems and melodies since I was kid. Then after that I was in choir and orchestra.
(•)> Who is your favorite poet and what inspires you the most when writing new songs?
Mary Oliver is a wonderful poet. Im inspired by so many things in life. Ideas for songs can come from anywhere!
(•)> What instrument did you play in the orchestra? What song was your favorite to perform?
I played cello! We sang a song in French in choir in high school and I loved that. It was called Il et bel et bon.
(•)> "What was "Il et bel et bon" about?
I don't remember really. I think some of the lyrics translate to he is so so so handsome. (after googling) It's 2 women gossiping about their husbands!
(•)> Who delivered your favorite all-time performance on the cello? What album that features the cello heavily would you recommend to me?
My friend gumB plays cello and I would recommend checking out his music.
INTERVIEW WITH LISA CURRAN
1. Hey Lisa, super nice to have the chance to chat with you! First and foremost what got you into music?
I grew up in a musical family, I’ve been singing longer than I’ve been speaking!
2. Do you have a mentor or coach?
Not necessarily, I’ve just always been heavily influenced by the creatives around me and they all drive me in different ways!
3. What’s your favorite discography and why?
I’m one of those annoying people that like everything! I love Benny Goodman, Peggy lee, traditional Irish songs, opera, Regina Spector, Amanda Palmer all the way to blink 182!
4. What’s your favorite artist from the 50’s?
Definitely Peggy lee! She just went for it with all her ideas and really pushed the stylisation of her vocals!
5. What makes you the happiest?
Honestly being happy to me is when I feel like I can do something for other people and they appreciate who I am and what I can bring to the world.
6. How do you balance your time in the studio with other commitments such as a part-time job, family, admin?
I’m very lucky that music so important to all those around me so we support each other when we can!
7. What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
’m a vocal coach and a mom!
8. What’s your favorite movie?
I’m a"Pretty Woman" gal! I love "Singing in the Rain" too!!
9. Do you think that technology is improving lives?
I really do, my son has autism and it has really really helped him socializing! For music it has made the world a lot smaller and more accessible!
10. Do you often agree with The Pigeon?
Of course!!!
1. Hey Frank, super nice to have the chance to chat with you! First and foremost what got you into music?
Good to meet you too! There wasn’t that much music at home, so it wasn’t until I started listening to music with friends that it sort of exploded for me. Then when I was about 14 my friends and I set up a sound system and it turned out we were pretty good at getting a room jumping. I ended up as the DJ and music just kind of took over from then on.
2. What are you most proud of?
I’d have to say the release of my debut album, Sense Life. It’s been a long time in the making and I’m super proud of the way it’s turned out as a complete piece of work.
3. Who would you most like to collaborate with?
That’s easy. Stevie Wonder! Who wouldn’t? Prince or David Bowie would have been cool. And I’ve always had a soft spot for Paddy McAloon of Prefab Sprout. All of them in the realms of fantasy, one way or another, of course.
4. What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?
My first job was as a baker so probably that.
5. What’s the best decade for music?
I have a thing for the 80s. You're supposed to say the 60s I guess, but every time I hear an 80s track it turns my head, so I guess that must mean something.
6. What’s your favorite album from the 2010’s?
There’s lots to choose from but the one comes to mind is Random Access Memories. I like the feel of it as a complete work. You’ve got Get Lucky as well as Touch and there’s a narrative that holds it together. That’s not a guilty pleasure by the way. I don’t believe in such things. If it’s a musical pleasure, there’s no need to feel guilty.
7. What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?
That it can bring out your passion. Music affects us much more deeply than seems reasonable. All emotions can be provoked and that’s a beautiful thing.
8. What memorable responses have you had to your work?
I’m so happy that there’s a quite few to choose from. Take your pick form the review (below) but I’m terribly flattered by being likened vocally to George Michael. And one reviewer said that they thought I’d clearly done my ‘10,000 hours’, which made me feel quite warm.
“A timeless universe of melodic pop” - Rock Era Magazine
“So hooky and addictive it's crazy” - Sound Won’t Stop
“Beautiful and timeless” - Pop Magazine
“Sophisticated, opinionated, and authentic” - Making a Scene
“emotion and quality songwriting throughout” - Obscure Sound
“Beautiful and captivating” - The Sounds Won’t Stop
9. What is your creative process like?
It usually starts with a guitar, some chords and a lyric/melody thing that just pops into my head. Then the real work has to begin. And for me, it needs to be a complete song before the production begins.
10. How do you structure your day?
With a list. Lists are the secret to life. If you’re disciplined with your lists, you tend to have less regrets