Mitten Music

Mitten Music
  • 4.4 (7)
  • Music

Discovering what goes into making the local music scene possible in the great state of Michigan. Episodes include interviews with local bands/artists, industry experts, venues, recording studios, and anything else that contributes to the success of music in the Mitten state. In addition, each episode will wrap up with a few songs from artists highlighted in our discussion.

  1. Ironwood: Metal Meets Wood Celtic/American Music to the Battle of the Bands at The Stray

    1d ago

    Ironwood: Metal Meets Wood Celtic/American Music to the Battle of the Bands at The Stray

    Most duo bands thrive on synergy—until they reveal the secret that keeps their sound full, their performances fun, and their relationship stronger than ever. Ironwood, a married folk duo influenced by Celtic and Americana sounds, shares how their bond, shared creativity, and even their foot-stomping stage presence make them a one-of-a-kind act—and why their dynamic is a blueprint for success in both music and love. In this lively episode, Mark and Anna from Ironwood take us inside their journey from separate musical worlds—metal and acoustic—to a powerful partnership shaped by their marriage and shared passion for authenticity. They explore how being a married couple makes rehearsals effortless, how their creative collaboration is fueled by nearly a decade of partnership, and why they intentionally keep the process fun over stressful. You’ll discover how their approach to songwriting, blending genres, and even improvising stage routines keeps their performances fresh, relatable, and full of energy. We break down their strategies for staying in sync, handling mistakes on stage with humor, and balancing their personal and musical lives. Plus, hear how their love for community, supporting other bands, and seeking inspiration from diverse genres shapes their evolving sound—from Celtic folk to jazz-themed Christmas tunes and beyond. They also reflect on why venues like The Stray are more than just performance spaces—they’re a vital part of their journey, representing quality, community, and artistic integrity. Why does this matter? In a world flooded with solo acts and overproduced recordings, Ironwood shows that genuine connection, shared values, and a sense of fun can amplify your music in ways that no studio effects can match. Whether you're a musician, a couple in business together, or simply craving authentic artistry, this episode is packed with insights—and plenty of laughs—that remind you that the best performances happen when you’re true to yourself and each other. Perfect for anyone navigating the creative collaboration, balancing personal relationships with art, or seeking inspiration to keep their musical journey joyful and authentic. Tune in, get inspired, and learn how a strong duo manages to sound like a full band—all while loving every minute of it.In this episode: How Mark and Anna developed the name Ironwood from their musical influences and the symbolism behind itThe challenges and benefits of working as a married couple in a duo configurationTheir approach to songwriting, live improvisations, and blending genres seamlesslyInsights into performing at the Battle of the Bands competition and what it means for local musiciansThe importance of community and quality venues like The Stray in supporting live musicTheir plans for a Christmas album and creating versatile, genre-crossing original musicTheir favorite musicians they'd love to tour with, including dream collaboration choicesResources & Links: Ironwood - Official WebsiteThe Stray - Community Venue

    33 min
  2. Tiff Falls | Why Being a “Full-Time” Sound Engineer at One Venue Is a Game-Changer

    Jun 11

    Tiff Falls | Why Being a “Full-Time” Sound Engineer at One Venue Is a Game-Changer

    In this episode, we sit down with Tiff Falls, a dedicated sound engineer and event manager at The Alluvion, to explore the nuances of live sound, event management, and the joy of working in the music industry. From her journey into sound engineering to her touring experiences and insights into creating the perfect live music environment, Tiff shares her passion and expertise. Key Topics: Tiff's background and how she got into sound engineering, including her experience following her wife’s band and stepping in as a last-minute engineerThe unique opportunities of managing sound at a dedicated venue and how it differs from freelance workThe importance of stage setup, sound checks, and collaboration with artists to create optimal live soundHow touring in different venues presents challenges and learning opportunities for sound engineersThe cultural and musical diversity in Michigan, with influences from rock, world music, and various genresThe value of soft skills like PR and flexibility in building strong artist-engineer relationshipsThe significance of standing room venues and the raw energy they bring to live performancesInsights into the evolving landscape of live sound and the benefits of local networking and community support Resources & Links:⁠ The Alluvion⁠⁠⁠ ⁠— The live music venue where Tiff works⁠⁠⁠ NMC Audio Tech Program⁠ — Michigan-based program for audio technology training⁠ Logic Pro⁠ — Digital audio workstation used by Tiff Connect with Tiff: ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ Instagram⁠ This episode offers a deep dive into the world of live sound and the passionate individuals who make the magic happen behind the scenes. Whether you’re an aspiring sound engineer, musician, or music lover, Tiff’s stories illuminate the dedication and skill required to bring live music to life.

    35 min
  3. How Art Arbor Turns Musicians' Confusions into Clear Strategies for Success

    Jun 4

    How Art Arbor Turns Musicians' Confusions into Clear Strategies for Success

    Unlock the secret to turning your artistic passion into a sustainable business — without drowning in tech jargon or financial stress. If you’re an artist feeling overwhelmed by the business side of your craft, this episode is your must-listen. Discover how a community-driven approach and clear goal-setting can bridge the gap between creativity and commerce, opening doors you didn’t know existed. Andrew Witter, co-founder of Art Arbor, shares the philosophy behind a digital ecosystem built to help artists thrive. With roots in music, finance, and community-building, Andrew reveals why most artists struggle with monetization and how you can leap over those hurdles with practical, proven strategies. You’ll learn why building a supportive “arbor” of community matters more than ever and how focusing on goals transforms confusion into clarity, growth, and tangible success. We break down: How Art Arbor helps artists navigate the digital and financial landscape with tailored audits and one-on-one coaching.The common pitfalls artists face at every stage — from beginners bombarding their networks with free content to touring professionals scaling their community and monetization efforts.The killer framework for goal-setting that turns vague ambitions into actionable plans, ensuring your art gets the recognition and income it deserves.Why many artists avoid the business side entirely — and how to flip that script to unlock long-term success.Plus, insights on leveraging social media, building sustainable fan communities, and the future of AI-driven artist support.If you’re tired of feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this episode equips you with concrete steps to elevate your art career — regardless of your stage or genre. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, Andrew’s insights illuminate a path to not just survive but thrive in today’s complex music ecosystem. Perfect for musicians, visual artists, performers, or anyone drawn to creating but daunted by the business: this is your blueprint for turning passion into a profession. Andrew Witter is a seasoned musician and digital strategist, co-founder of Art Arbor, and dedicated to empowering artists with actionable tools and community support. His mission? To help artists stop guessing and start growing. Tune in and find out how to grow your own digital “arbor” of community, revenue, and artistic fulfillment. Your breakthrough moment starts here. Art Arbor LinksSubstackFacebookLinkedInInstagram

    14 min
  4. How the Pyramid Scheme Became One of Michigan's Most Beloved Music Venue in 15 Years

    May 28

    How the Pyramid Scheme Became One of Michigan's Most Beloved Music Venue in 15 Years

    Most venues kill their best moments by overcomplicating booking and promotion — Nate Dorough of The Pyramid Scheme reveals exactly how they keep crowds sold out and the community thriving, even in the toughest times. Imagine booking 250+ shows annually and managing an ecosystem where every detail, from artist research to innovative front bar events, plays a critical role in creating unforgettable nights — all while adapting to post-pandemic challenges. Nate shares insider tactics for leveraging analytics, harnessing community loyalty, and building a venue culture where bands like Failure, Melvins, and Jeff Rosenstock feel at home. You’ll discover how data-driven research helps booking decisions, why organic promotion still rules, and the importance of authenticity in today’s live music scene. We break down the behind-the-scenes magic of tour routing, hold challenges, and the art of making sold-out shows seem effortless — even when you’re balancing rising costs and unpredictable audiences. Plus, get the scoop on innovative events like vinyl nights, free pinball, and special tribute evenings that turn regular nights into community celebrations. Whether you’re a venue owner, promoter, or a passionate fan, you’ll learn how to craft a space that becomes a cultural cornerstone, especially amid worldwide chaos. This episode is essential listening if you want to understand what makes a venue not just survive but thrive, turning every show into a memorable experience that builds loyalty and community—no matter what storms come. Nate Dorough’s insights cut through the noise, helping you see how powerful a well-managed venue can be in shaping local music culture. Nate Dorough is the Director of Programming at The Pyramid Scheme in Grand Rapids, known for cultivating a vibrant music scene, legendary shows, and a community-first philosophy. With over 20 years of experience promoting thousands of concerts, he’s a master at balancing artistic integrity, community needs, and business savvy. Perfect for venue operators, promoters, musicians, and music lovers alike — tune in to unlock the secrets behind one of America’s most beloved independent venues and how they keep the spirit alive in every note and ticket sold.

    53 min
  5. Behind the Sound Board with Berkeley Tistle

    May 21

    Behind the Sound Board with Berkeley Tistle

    Episode: Interview with Berkeley Tistle Audio Engineer | Recorded at Gig: The Art of Michigan Music – Jackson, MI We stepped away from the stage and behind the sound board at GIG: The Art of Michigan Music in Jackson, Michigan, to sit down with Berkeley Tistle — a live sound engineer with nearly a decade of experience working across Michigan, from small local stages to the iconic Masonic Temple in Detroit. Berkeley shares how it all started with a giant Yamaha mixing desk in his high school theater program, and how that moment of curiosity turned into a full-time career. We get into what it actually looks like to run sound for a live show — the prep, the problem-solving, the late nights, and the art of anticipating everything going wrong and nothing going wrong at the same time. In this episode: How Berkeley got his start in high school theater and why the mixing desk caught his eyeThe difference between studio recording and live sound — and why live won him overWhat it's like to work out of venues like Detroit's Masonic Temple (and why you should bring a buddy if you wander)How he preps for a show with artists he's never worked with beforeWhat musicians can do to make a sound engineer's job easier (communication is everything)How years of working live shows changed his personal taste in music — including a New Year's run with Excision that converted him to heavy EDMHow gigs are booked and what the business side of audio looks likeArtists mentioned: Carbon Decoy, Paper Lanterns, Mazinga, Chris DuPont, Kylee Phillips, Kyle Joe, Spencer LaJoye, Excision Venues mentioned: Masonic Temple Detroit, The Russell (Detroit), Bliss Fest

    21 min
  6. LIPSEY and Chima: Why Change Is the Key to Survival and Growth in Life and Music

    May 14

    LIPSEY and Chima: Why Change Is the Key to Survival and Growth in Life and Music

    Most emerging artists face a relentless struggle to turn their passion into a livelihood—until they discover the secret ingredient that transforms adversity into advantage. LIPSEY and Chinma reveal the raw truth about balancing artistry with real-world pressures, from hitting creative deadlines for the first time to navigating the hustle of building momentum in a saturated industry. In this episode, you'll discover how to handle the stress of impending release dates without losing your voice, the importance of team collaboration in making big artistic moves, and why embracing losses—as part of the process—can catapult your growth. Chinma shares his journey of transforming childhood passions for film and music into a full-time hustle, emphasizing the power of community, mentorship, and relentless perseverance. LIPSEY's story highlights the necessity of change—how evolving perspectives and pushing through the fear of failure can lead to breakthroughs and authentic success. We break down tangible frameworks like the "Beautiful Struggle," a mindset that turns obstacles into stepping stones, and discuss why nobody truly succeeds solo. LIPSEY and Chinma emphasize that help, mentorship, and genuine relationships are crucial to scaling your artistic impact. Their conversations illuminate why 'self-made' is a myth; success is built on collective effort, humility, and unlearning limiting beliefs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to advance in their creative journey. If you’re ready to see setbacks as setups for a comeback, and if you want real insights on evolving as an artist and human, this conversation will inspire and equip you to level up. Perfect for aspiring musicians, content creators, and entrepreneurs who understand that growth demands change—and that the true victory lies in resilience, community, and continuous learning. Tune in, get inspired, and remember: The winner is just a loser who didn’t give up. Note: Lipsey is a Kalamazoo rapper known for his authentic approach and impactful storytelling, while Chinma is a multi-talented artist, videographer, and collaborator shaping Michigan’s vibrant music scene. Mentions Helluva: A producer from Detroit who has worked with LIPSEY. LIPSEY is the first artist to have a full body of work with him, and Helluva has produced and engineered his upcoming album.Aaliyah and Timbaland: Mentioned by Chinma as major influences in his musical journey, alongside Daft Punk.Daft Punk: Also cited by Chinma as a significant influence, contributing to his unconventional ear for music.Yayo: Collaborating with Chinma on a project, with a song called "Bringing a Friend" set to release soon.Obie: Chinma gives a shout-out to his older brother, Obie, for introducing him to music production.NPE CAL: Mentioned by Chinma as part of the team that helped him create amazing work.Sherdizzil, aka Sheridan Harris: Also acknowledged by Chinma for contributing to his projects

    21 min
  7. Riot Course: Guitar Music Done Right – Post-Grunge, Emo & Beyond

    May 7

    Riot Course: Guitar Music Done Right – Post-Grunge, Emo & Beyond

    In this episode we sit down with the four members of Riot Course — Kate Emrich, Spencer Haithcock, Mark Losey, and Nathan Vogt — for a wide-ranging conversation about the band's evolution, their newly released EP, and the tight-knit DIY community that holds it all together. Riot Course is a Southeast Michigan band rooted primarily in Ypsilanti, with Nathan repping Toledo, Ohio. Kate and Spencer are founding members who have been building the project for about five years, releasing their first EP in 2020 and a second (Skin Deep) in 2022. Their third EP, "Before You Can Say Knife", dropped in October 2025 and marks the first full recording with the current four-piece lineup. The band recorded it at I/O Studio in Detroit with engineer Patrick Sheffield, and the results clearly impressed — even casual previews had friends immediately asking where it was recorded. The conversation also covers the band's pragmatic approach to writing and rehearsing across different sites — mixing sessions at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti, renting warehouse space from friendly building owners, and trading riffs in apartments with acoustic guitars and small amps. Their recent show at The Pyramid Scheme in Grand Rapids (with Pretty Sure, Ficus, and Low Phase) will mark their first time playing the beloved venue, though both Kate and Spencer have been attending shows there for years — and Kate even credits The Pyramid Scheme show as the night she and Spencer first really connected. The episode winds down with favorite venues (a tie between Ziggy's and the Olympia skate shop warehouse in Detroit, with Nathan giving a nod to a DIY spot in Bowling Green called Girl House), a spirited pizza debate (New York vs. Chicago vs. Detroit styles), a digression into New York's Anti-Rat Day of Action, and excitement over the brand-new Sheetz opening in Ypsilanti — which the band confirmed they were heading to immediately after the stream.

    42 min
  8. From Broken Windows to Milestone Moments: Inside Low Phase's Homemade Studio Journey

    Apr 23

    From Broken Windows to Milestone Moments: Inside Low Phase's Homemade Studio Journey

    Most bands settle for sounding like everyone else — this band’s evolution might change your entire view of live music. Caleb, John, and Miles from Low Phase pull back the curtain on their journey from teenage bandmates to pioneers in DIY recording, fighting against industry norms, and redefining what intimacy on stage really means. In this candid chat, they reveal how self-producing their latest album has unlocked rawer, heavier sounds—think shoegaze meets distorted guitars—without the studio constraints. You'll discover how a broken window led to an unforgettable story, the secret behind their color-changing cups, and practical insights into modern live performance strategies like integrating backing tracks and managing costs as an indie band. They break down the brutal reality of earning $200 for two-thousand-person shows, and why they’re committed to reinvesting every penny into their craft—an inspiring reminder that passion doesn’t always pay the bills, but it keeps the music alive. Plus, you'll learn why their beloved hometown venue, the Pyramid Scheme, is more than just a stage—it's a symbol of roots and community that fuels their growth.

    41 min
See All (128)

4.4
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Discovering what goes into making the local music scene possible in the great state of Michigan. Episodes include interviews with local bands/artists, industry experts, venues, recording studios, and anything else that contributes to the success of music in the Mitten state. In addition, each episode will wrap up with a few songs from artists highlighted in our discussion.

Information

  • Creator
    Mitten Music
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    128
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Mitten Music
  • Show Website
    Mitten Music

You Might Also Like