Basic Folk

Basic Folk

Author: The Bluegrass Situation Language: English Episodes: 50
There's a certain magic that happens when musicians are given the space to talk not just about their craft, but about the life that feeds it. That's the heart of Basic Folk, a series of conversations that feel more like catching up with an old friend than a formal interview. Hosts Cindy Howes and Lizzie No bring a genuine curiosity and easy warmth to each episode, creating an environment where artists often share stories and insights they might not elsewhere. Since 2018, this podcast has carved out a vital niche, actively seeking to honor and platform the incredible, sometimes under-the-radar, voices within the roots music world. You'll find a beautifully diverse tapestry of sound and experience here, from technical wizards and Grammy-winners like Molly Tuttle to culturally pivotal figures like Leyla McCalla, all united by their connection to folk music's expansive tradition. Produced by The Bluegrass Situation, each episode digs into the personal journeys, creative struggles, and quiet triumphs that shape the music. It’s less about celebrity and more about substance, offering listeners a chance to intimately understand the people behind the songs. Tune in for thoughtful, humorous and deeply human dialogues that remind you why folk music, in all its forms, remains a powerful force for storytelling and connection.
Episodes
Keb' Mo' Defines the Blues as Honesty Music, ep. 350 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:20
We are so honored to welcome Keb' Mo' (aka Kevin Moore) on the show for our 350th episode! After many decades of incredible music, his new solo acoustic album, The Breakdown, was written and recorded at his home studio n…
Lizzie No & Kimaya Diggs Celebrate America's Outlaws, ep. 347 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:47
Lizzie No, Kaïa Kater, Nathan Evans Fox, Olivia Ellen Lloyd, Tray Wellington, A.J. Haynes, and more are featured on the new compilation album 'Outlaws’ Almanac,' a response to the 250th anniversary of the United States o…
Alela Diane: Gold in France, That 1990s/1890s Life, and Michael Hurley [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:56
Back in the mid 2000's Alela Diane's Gospel Pirate album was ringing my bell and apparently, it was ringing a lot of other people's bells, too, especially Europeans. Alela's debut album went gold in France and she's been…
Milk Carton Kids Are Making a Mountain out of a Molehill, ep. 345 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:08:54
Kenneth Pattengale and Joey Ryan, the Milk Carton Kids, are calling their latest album, 'Lost Cause Lover Fool,' "the one." They have finally figured out how to feel and sound like themselves with a broader sonic palette…
Club Passim's Matt Smith on 30 Years of Building Community, ep. 344 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:22
Matt Smith is a living legend with his unbelievable 30-year run at Club Passim, the historic folk venue nestled in a Harvard Square basement. Currently Managing Director at Passim, Matt is the most passionate music lover…