Mitten Music

Mitten Music
  • 5.0 (6)
  • 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. Pretty Sure: Trio of Friends Reignite Goober Punk Music Between Cincinnati to Grand Rapids

    5D AGO

    Pretty Sure: Trio of Friends Reignite Goober Punk Music Between Cincinnati to Grand Rapids

    Join Bryce and Kyle from Pretty Sure as they share candid stories about their journey in music, their upcoming tour, the nuances of releasing EPs versus albums, and their creative processes. This episode offers an authentic look into what it takes to grow in the indie scene while staying true to their art. They share how Spotify determines if the music is an EP or Album. This leads to a conversation about the varying definitions of EP vs. LP from the band. In the end, it should be the band's choice in this day where physical length does not limit you. We dive into how their show at The Pyramid Scheme came to be and more details about their tour. Listen in to hear this engaging conversation with punk rockers that have a lot of compassion for their music and people.

    50 min
  2. The Alluvion: The Secret Sauce Behind a Thriving Music Venue: Passion, Thoughtfulness, and Community

    MAR 26

    The Alluvion: The Secret Sauce Behind a Thriving Music Venue: Passion, Thoughtfulness, and Community

    Explore the story behind Traverse City's vibrant music scene through the lens of The Alluvion venue. This episode features insights from Matt McCalpin, the venue's operations and booking manager, and audio engineer Tiff Falls, as they discuss the venue’s inception, unique features, and upcoming events. The Alluvion in Traverse City proves that a passionate, musician-led space can rapidly build a vibrant scene. Just months after opening in April 2023, this intimate, innovative venue is already hosting acclaimed jazz acts, world musicians, and legendary performers like Branford Marsalis—all thanks to a team that deeply understands both music and community. In this episode, discover how the Alluvion's staff bring a unique artist-first mindset to venue operation, creating a space where music lovers of all genres feel at home. You’ll hear the behind-the-scenes story of how they designed a flexible, acoustically-optimized room that can adapt from a seated jazz night to a raucous rock show, and how a small but mighty team is redefining the live music experience in Michigan. If you’re a music lover, venue owner, or musician eager to build a thriving scene, this episode is your blueprint for turning passion into a powerful community hub. The Alluvion demonstrates how purpose-driven spaces can punch well above their weight—setting a new standard for what a small-town venue can achieve.

    35 min
  3. Super Nuclear - From Oil & Dye to Digital the Evolution of Live Visuals in Modern Music

    MAR 19

    Super Nuclear - From Oil & Dye to Digital the Evolution of Live Visuals in Modern Music

    Most live visuals feel canned. Not this—Matthew Stafford, aka Super Nuclear, reveals how he creates mesmerizing, ever-changing light shows in real time that turn every performance into an immersive spectacle. If you've ever wondered how a liquid light show can sync perfectly with psychedelic, doom, or surf rock, this episode uncovers the secrets behind live visual art that captivates audiences and elevates the concert experience. Matthew’s journey began at a festival in 2018, inspired by vintage oil and dye projections, and quickly evolved into a complex, organic art form blending liquid manipulation, video clips, and stage imagery. You’ll discover how he crafts dynamic visuals by studying bands beforehand, then improvises in the moment—the difference between pre-programmed lighting and organic, on-the-fly creativity. We break down his highly technical setup, including multiple camera feeds, live blending, and how he manages to keep each layer engaging without overwhelming the audience.You’ll also learn about the thriving underground network of visual artists across the country, the ongoing effort to revitalize live music venues like the historic theater in Traverse City, and how community-driven projects are shaping the local scene. Matthew’s story highlights the power of art to transform small shows into unforgettable, big-production experiences—something every musician and event organizer should hear. Perfect for live music enthusiasts or anyone curious about the art behind the spectacle—this episode explores how organic improvisation and technical skill combine to create an electrifying visual dimension you’ve never seen before. Whether you’re a fan of psychedelic rock or just love immersive art, Matthew’s insights will leave you inspired to think differently about live entertainment. Join us to see how one artist turns swirling oils, vivid videos, and stage presence into a live masterpiece—proof that in the right hands, visual art can elevate music into something truly magical. Main Topics: The art and technique of live visual performance, utilizing liquids, oils, dye, and digital tools Building a local music and arts community through venue development and visual collaborations The journey from musical influences to creating immersive concert experiences Challenges and opportunities in setting up independent arts venues How visuals enhance the energy and engagement of live showsIn this episode: Matthew explains the origins of his liquid light shows rooted in 1960s and 70s visual techniques He describes his process of studying bands beforehand to tailor visuals or improvising in the moment The network of live visual artists across the country and their role in psychedelic and rock scenes The potential for a new venue in Traverse City to support local and touring acts The importance of immersive experiences that elevate small shows into memorable events The impact of festivals like Desert Days on Matthew’s artistic path and aspirations

    24 min

  4. MAR 12

    What’s Next for Haskins? New Music, Live Shows & Detroit Stories

    Haskins returns to the show for the first time in two years to talk about new music, their plans for Volume V, and what life looks like for an indie rock band juggling families, day jobs, and late‑night rehearsals. The band shares updates on their upcoming studio sessions, how they approach recording, and why some venues are getting harder to find — especially on Michigan’s west side. We also get a fun behind‑the‑scenes look at show prep, gear‑sharing between bands, their annual Christmas video tradition, and the subtle album‑naming Easter eggs fans may have missed. Recorded ahead of their performance at the Oddfellow Concert Lounge, this episode captures the humor, honesty, and creative energy that make Haskins a standout in the Michigan indie scene.

    25 min
  5. How a Zombie Crawl and a Love for Music Built The Oddfellow Concert Lounge

    MAR 5

    How a Zombie Crawl and a Love for Music Built The Oddfellow Concert Lounge

    Unlock the inspiring story of Wyandotte’s The Odd Fellow Concert Lounge, where community, charity, and original music collide. When a small-town pub crawl raised over $1,600 for local nonprofits—and evolved into a hub for live, original acts—everything changed. Co-founders Brian Webb and Michael Balcom share their journey of transforming a historic building into a vibrant space that fuels local artists, supports charitable causes, and celebrates the power of music to bring people together. In this episode, you'll discover how a passion for original music sparked a movement—ranging from a zombie pub crawl to a thriving concert venue—funded entirely by community support and creative fundraising. Learn how they create unforgettable shows with collaborative lineups, from Americana and punk to indie and metal, all while helping community members in need. Whether you're a musician seeking a supportive venue, a community leader inspired to build legacy projects, or simply a lover of genuine live music, this episode offers a blueprint for impactful entrepreneurship rooted in passion and purpose. Perfect for artists, event organizers, and anyone dedicated to fostering local culture—this is your behind-the-scenes pass to a movement that proves music, charity, and community are the ultimate formula for lasting impact. Dive in and find out why the Odd Fellow Concert Lounge isn’t just a venue—it’s a movement to make the world a better place, one song at a time. Resources & Links Be Well My Friends FoundationThe Oddfellow Concert LoungeEd Cunnea - Signal Strength Audio

    36 min
  6. Songs in Boxes, Stories in Motion: The Journey of Lori & The Darlings

    FEB 26

    Songs in Boxes, Stories in Motion: The Journey of Lori & The Darlings

    Singer‑songwriter Lori Keisler of Lori & The Darlings joins us for a heartfelt conversation about the unexpected spark that launched her band, the decades of songwriting she’s carried with her, and the emotional weight of performing original music.She shares how a chance online‑dating encounter during COVID led to the song “Chocolate Covered Blueberries,” which in turn inspired her to finally bring her long‑hidden catalog of songs to life. From growing up watching her father record demos on a four‑track, to performing in a family band, to taking a decade‑long hiatus to raise her kids, Lori walks us through the winding path that shaped her as an artist. We dive into her creative process, the band’s dynamic, the challenge of balancing life and music, and the excitement of their upcoming six‑song album. Recorded ahead of their final show of the year at the Oddfellow Concert Lounge, this episode captures Lori’s passion for storytelling, her love of love songs, and her mission to make sure her music doesn’t “collect dust in boxes” any longer.

    20 min
  7. Midnight Proof: From Cover Band, Groovin' Violation, to Rust Belt Americana Original Michigan Music

    FEB 19

    Midnight Proof: From Cover Band, Groovin' Violation, to Rust Belt Americana Original Michigan Music

    In this episode, we had the opportunity to chat with three members (Rob, Mike, and Steve) from the Rust Belt Americana band, Midnight Proof, prior to their show at The Oddfellow Concert Lounge. They share their journey from cover band, Groovin' Violation to 100% focus on original music. The cover band helped fund their start but now they are having a blast creating their own sound and don't want to turn back. We talk about their upcoming album, origin of their band name, and live performances. Listen in to hear a fun conversation with grown men loving this opportunity to play music with friends.

    24 min
  8. Aspiring Graphic Designers - Degrees, Tools, A.I., & Advice from Professor, Student, & Professionals

    FEB 12

    Aspiring Graphic Designers - Degrees, Tools, A.I., & Advice from Professor, Student, & Professionals

    Welcome to Mitten Music, where we bring you authentic conversations. In this episode, we enter the world of graphic design while we were onsite for the GIG - The Art of Michigan Music⁠⁠ event in November 2025. We spoke with Professor of Graphic Design at Jackson College, Christie Hughes, and one of her student's Jaylen Westbrook⁠⁠. They discuss the curriculum, tools, and the approach to the associate degree at Jackson College. Four professional graphic designers ( Carl Lundgren⁠, ⁠Dennis Preston⁠, ⁠Matthew Jacobson⁠, ⁠Jonathan Doyle⁠⁠) from concert posters to corporate design interject their experiences, advice, and passion for design. Of course, what would a conversation be today without the topic of artificial intelligence. Listen to hear their thoughts and outlook on this new tool or curse to the craft depending on how you look at it. Matthew Jacobson's Ignite Talk Ignite Talk • The Color of Money

    52 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 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
    118
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Mitten Music
  • Show Website
    Mitten Music

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