MT Homegrown Radio features Wind and the Willows, Dirt Farmers
Montanans love their music, and now there’s an entirely new way to experience local talent. Montana Homegrown Radio is an online independent musician showcase featuring a different area act every week. Presented much like a live broadcast radio show, each hosted episode includes an interview component, discussion, and of course — live music! New episodes are typically posted on Wednesdays, but each edition is available for your listening pleasure 24/7. Here’s a look at a few of the recently featured artists.
The Wind and the Willows showed off their talents on October 16th. Imports from Evergreen, Colorado, lead singers Ryen Dalvit and Maren Stubenvoll bring their distinct sound to Montana, a blend of brass, strings, and triple harmonies. The band’s roots lie in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. From writing tunes in caves and atop mountains, to performing in taprooms and other intimate venues, these once upon a time classmates became a songwriting duo finding inspiration in their beautiful surroundings and budding sisterhood. The Wind and the Willows bring a fresh taste of folk to their new home of Bozeman.
The Dirt Farmers stopped by the studio on November 1st. The foot-stomping string band have dubbed their musical style “paisley grass.” They’ve gained a following for their fun-loving mix of old school country, bluegrass, blues and rock — with the occasional slip into hip-hop. The band members, as unique as their song list, serve it all up with a smile on mandolin, banjo, guitar, fiddle and bass with vocal harmonies. The Dirt Farmers invite you to be “Having a Good Time” and experience the flavor and fun of Montana life. The Dirt Farmers are Nate Fortier (mandolin), Kelly Hagerman (guitar), Bill Devine (dobro), Hans Swenson (fiddle), Suzanne Ford (bass) and Chuck Swenson (banjo, harmonica).
Previous episodes have featured Dos Mayos, Don Elliott, The Significant Figures, Jeff Peterson, and Those Guys. All episodes are available to stream now.
Montana Homegrown Radio is hosted by Dirk Alan, a native Montanan that’s been in the music business for the last 40 years in multiple capacities. With a passion for music and helping his fellow musicians, Dirk provides a very laid back, fun environment so radio guests can be as comfortable and spontaneous as possible.
Montana Homegrown Radio serves as a promotional space for local talent and their many art forms — and they want YOU! Any musician with a story to tell and a song to sing is encouraged to apply for a guest spot on the podcast.
Visit www.montanahomegrownradio.com to catch up with the fantastic Montana musicians who have been featured thus far, or to submit an application for a future edition. Be sure to keep an eye out for additional guests as they’re announced. •
