Music News & Interviews for the Baltimore, DC & Richmond Music Scenes

John McCutcheon - Press Photo - Eric Petersen

DMV

John McCutcheon Returns to the Barns at Wolf Trap Again: Though Touring Behind His 43rd Album, the Prolific Songwriter Has More Tunes in the Works

Singer-songwriter John McCutcheon returns to the Barns at the Wolf Trap on April 20. “I have played at the Barns more than any other venue in the world,” said McCutcheon. “The first time I played there was 1981, which I believe was when they just opened up.” And excluding the pandemic, he has played the venue annually. Fans can expect tracks from McCutcheon’s latest album, “Leap!”, his 43rd record—equating to about one per year – as well as long-time favorites. Learn more with contributing writer Eric Althoff.

Eric Althoff April 12, 2023

Annie Kuchenmeister of Loki's Folly onstage at a First Avenue show, playing guitar and screaming lyrics with Nissa on the drums by her side

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Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month with Sibling Punk Band Loki’s Folly’s Annie Kuchenmeister, Talking Debut Album ‘Sisu’

Loki’s Folly is an indie-punk trio that deserves to be on your radar. Based in Minneapolis, this band is quite unique because it is made up of a family of rocking young musicians ready for their voices to be heard. Read to learn more about the band’s impressive debut album Sisu and how it came to be, and to uplift Annie during this Autism Appreciation Month. – Annie Kuchenmeister (22, guitar/vocals), her sister Nissa (17, drums), and their brother Oskar (12, bass). Learn more with contributing writer Emma Page.

Emma Page April 7, 2023

Carolyn Wonderland - Press Photo - Marilyn Stringer

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Her Body of Work Is a Wonderland: Carolyn Wonderland Will Bring her Texas Blues to Rams Head On Stage

When asked by her friend and collaborator Cindy Cashdollar who would top her dream list of producers for her first album on Alligator Records, only one name came to Carolyn Wonderland’s mind: Dave Alvin. “She called him up, and he said sure,” Wonderland said in a recent interview about such fortunate happenstance. “He would refer to himself as the ‘mad rearranger.’” That album, “Tempting Fate,” is the 11th record of Wonderland’s career. Her songwriting weaves the sounds of blues, gospel, and even some country into its sonic landscape. Learn more with contributing writer Eric Althoff.

Eric Althoff April 5, 2023

Hematite - Press Photo - Courtesy of the Artist

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Gothic Western Rock Duo Hematite: ‘Life Is Constant Movement, You Just Have to Decide What Direction to Go’

On March 31, gothic Western rock duo Hematite released their debut EP. The one-of-a-kind collection takes listeners across the frontier on a wild journey of discovery and redemption, ultimately arriving at the realization that the past, present, and future are interconnected and evolving. Join contributing writer Cynthia Gross as she connects with two of the rock scene’s greatest gems, Davey Muise and Andrew Gaultier, to discuss the vision behind their new direction, the most important takeaway they want listeners to gain from their EP, and what survival and rebirth look like during challenging seasons.

Cynthia Gross April 4, 2023

DMV

DMV Folk Singer/Songwriter Eli Waltz is Always ‘Burning Moonlight’

Eli Waltz is an Americana folk singer, songwriter, and bandleader. After living and performing in Beijing for a while, he now lives and is based in Washington, D.C. His group performs regularly in the DMV, with upcoming tours across the country. Waltz’s folk fingerpicking style, combined with his strong songwriting and dynamic vocals make for an enlightening listening experience, as well as his signature harmonica solos. Waltz also runs, hosts, and performs at several musical series in D.C. which feature local songwriters, usually in the folk, blues, and country genres. Learn more about Eli Waltz’s journey with contributing writer Emma Page.

Emma Page April 3, 2023

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‘Motivate and Inspire’: Laura Luv Celebrates Women’s History Month with Alchemical Records

March is Women’s History Month, and this comes with a reflection and appreciation of women contributing to the music industry. From producers to writers, women have been the arbiters of some of the most influential pieces of art. D.C.-based Colombian singer, songwriter, and first-time Wammie nominee Laura Luv talks to contributing writer Margaret Adams about her background, as well as how her Colombian heritage and women have inspired her music, especially through her newest self-titled EP, Laura Luv, and why the presence of women and female representation is important in the music industry.

Margaret Adams March 30, 2023

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Marilyn Hucek: ‘I Think the Biggest Superpower You Have Is to Be Yourself Wholeheartedly’

D.C.-based pop artist and fashion influencer Marilyn Hucek is the epitome of style, effortless chic, and impressive talent. The American-Chilean rising star continues to amass a loyal following, with more than 1 million Spotify streams to her credit. Hucek’s anthems move individuals to never settle for less than what they deserve. Join contributing writer Cynthia Gross as she connects with Marilyn Hucek in recognition of Women’s History Month. Learn why Hucek is “not afraid to fail,” how her multicultural background influences her art, her favorite clothing item in her collection, and her advice for emerging artists.

Cynthia Gross March 29, 2023

Tommy Castro & The Painkillers - Kathleen Harrison

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Crusin’ for Some Bluesin’: California’s Tommy Castro Set to Return to Annapolis—and the High Seas—with You!

Tommy Castro believes that what is considered “blues” music has shifted over the decades. Thus, what you might hear played on B.B. King’s Bluesville on SiriusXM falls under a rather broad catchall of various influences. Tommy Castro & the Painkillers will bring their swinging’ West Coast sound to the Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis April 2. It’ll be a rocking and rolling return for the ensemble that is not to be missed. Learn more with contributing writer Eric Althoff, including details on a special offer available to fans who purchase a ticket to the show.

Eric Althoff March 27, 2023

Cat Doersch performs at Bush Gardens as a cave woman - Photo courtesy of Lynn Hales

DMV

Celtic Rock Drummer Cat Doersch: ‘That Is How I Measure Success…By What Brings Me Joy’

Celtic rock artist Cat Doersch says one of the few things she has ever been so sure of is her lifelong love affair with the drums. Take a look at her passionate, riveting performances, where she becomes one with the instrument, and it becomes clear that they were made for each other. Join contributing writer Cynthia Gross as she connects with Cat Doersch to learn Doersch’s favorite song to perform with The American Rogues, the most important lesson she learned in order to be successful as a female drummer, and the story behind her affectionate nickname, “Hammer of God.”

Cynthia Gross March 23, 2023

Marcia Ball - Press Photo by Mary Bruton

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Texas Royalty Marcia Ball Brings Acoustic Tour to the DMV on Double Bill with Tinsley Ellis

If there’s one person who can blend the sounds of Southern soul with Texas blues, it’s Marcia Ball. Ball will be co-headlining two area shows of acoustic songs alongside Tinsley Ellis, first at Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis March 28 and then the Pearl Street Warehouse in D.C. March 29. Each artist will perform a set and then jam together for the finale. Ball says the artists will share stories about the songs’ gestation, making the evening not just a concert but a conversation. Join contributing writer Eric Althoff, as he connects with Marcia Ball to learn more about what audiences can expect from her upcoming shows.

Eric Althoff March 22, 2023

Natalie Brooke playing keytar at a gig, backlit in blue

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DMV Funk Musician Natalie Brooke Talks Authentic Women in Music

Funk/jazz fusion powerhouse Natalie Brooke is one-of-a-kind. You may have caught her solo act, as well as her two band projects – funk rock band Natalie Brooke, in which she sings, and instrumental jazz fusion band The Infinity Tribe. Another side of Brooke is that she is not only a performer, but a teacher. “I love teaching,” she says. “I think it’s the easiest job in the whole world. I just love working with people who are on their own journey with music, and I can help them.” Learn more about Brooke’s journey with contributing writer Emma Page, including her thoughts on authentic women in music and how she found her own unique sound from her classical music roots.

Emma Page March 21, 2023

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Janae Daniels is Staying Ready and Versatile with ‘4FOR4’

Beneath the sensual attack of her pop melodies and rapping, Janae Daniels is a DC baby born-and-raised in some of the city’s hallmark musical cultures. With equal roots singing in church choirs and go-go bands, she began developing a distinct personality and rhythm to her musical expression from an early age. And as her prowess began to earn her acclaim, she dug in deeper. Between her go-go roots, the inspiring voices of women in her church choir, and some external influences, Janae has shown up continually with unshakeable presence. Learn more about her latest EP, 4FOR4, with contributing writer Charlie Maybee.

Charlie Maybee March 17, 2023

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Jeania Stewart: ‘We All Love, Wonder, and Ponder Life As We Wish Upon the Same Moon and Stars’

Pianist, percussionist, seamstress, world traveler, antique collector, art framer, wife, mother, Elvis enthusiast – just a few of the many roles balanced with grace by Jeania Stewart of The American Rogues – for whom the journey is the destination. Since joining The American Rogues officially in 2006, Stewart has become a secret ingredient to the award-winning Celtic rock collective’s successes. Join contributing writer Cynthia Gross as she connects with Jeania Stewart in recognition of Irish American Heritage Month to discuss her starts, proud DMV roots, and exciting plans for the future.

Cynthia Gross March 17, 2023

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Grimalkin Records is Standing Up for Marginalized Voices in the Music Industry

Grim Kells is an innovator. Nancy Grim Kells aka Grim makes music under the name Spartan Jet-Plex, as well as being the founder and Facilitator/Executive Director of Grimalkin, a nonprofit organization created “to mentor and support trans and queer musicians, particularly BIPOC and disabled artists, using an artist-centered holistic approach to break down barriers, create new systems and structures of support, and expand the reach of marginalized voices.” Learn more about Grim’s growing reach and impact with contributing writer Jaci Jedrych.

Jaci Jedrych March 15, 2023

The Smithereens - Press Photo - Neil Seiffer

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The Smithereens Are Due to Retake the Birchmere Post-Covid

If you smell something rather unusual at the Birchmere on March 17, there’s at least a chance that the Smithereens’ fans have brought them…crabs. That actually happened once at the venue back in the day when the Jersey boys played the famous Alexandria stage. “One of our fans, a longtime fan, brought me a dozen crabs,” recalls guitarist Jim Babjak. “I had them [wrapped] in newspapers, and I stunk up the back! But the band tolerates me because they know I love Maryland crabs.” The Smithereens share memories of playing the Birchmere—and their hopes for a joyful present – with contributing writer Eric Althoff.

Eric Althoff March 7, 2023

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Get all the latest music news and reviews in the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA areas.Visit us daily and stay up-to-date on your favorite local and national acts.

John McCutcheon Returns to the Barns at Wolf Trap Again: Though Touring Behind His 43rd Album, the Prolific Songwriter Has More Tunes in the Works

Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month with Sibling Punk Band Loki’s Folly’s Annie Kuchenmeister, Talking Debut Album ‘Sisu’

Her Body of Work Is a Wonderland: Carolyn Wonderland Will Bring her Texas Blues to Rams Head On Stage

Gothic Western Rock Duo Hematite: ‘Life Is Constant Movement, You Just Have to Decide What Direction to Go’

DMV Folk Singer/Songwriter Eli Waltz is Always ‘Burning Moonlight’

‘Motivate and Inspire’: Laura Luv Celebrates Women’s History Month with Alchemical Records

Marilyn Hucek: ‘I Think the Biggest Superpower You Have Is to Be Yourself Wholeheartedly’

Crusin’ for Some Bluesin’: California’s Tommy Castro Set to Return to Annapolis—and the High Seas—with You!

Celtic Rock Drummer Cat Doersch: ‘That Is How I Measure Success…By What Brings Me Joy’

Texas Royalty Marcia Ball Brings Acoustic Tour to the DMV on Double Bill with Tinsley Ellis

DMV Funk Musician Natalie Brooke Talks Authentic Women in Music

Janae Daniels is Staying Ready and Versatile with ‘4FOR4’

Jeania Stewart: ‘We All Love, Wonder, and Ponder Life As We Wish Upon the Same Moon and Stars’

Grimalkin Records is Standing Up for Marginalized Voices in the Music Industry

The Smithereens Are Due to Retake the Birchmere Post-Covid

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