Mountain Music Breakdown Podcast

Turnabout is fair play – Dave turns the mic on Mike and does an in-depth interview of his co-host. They get into Mike’s musical origin story, how he started his career as a podcast producer, the Bluegrass scene in Brooklyn NYC (the ‘Bluegrass Borough”) – and his phobia of recorder orchestras! It’s a fun and wide-ranging discussion with a lot of interesting give and take. Enjoy!

Events of Note:

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN

This episode Dave and Mike go in-depth with Dan Gable, President of Peghead Nation, a platform providing quality online music instruction. Dan shares his story of working within the music industry as a journalist, his passion for acoustic roots music and ,with guitarist Scott Nygaard and Teja Gerken, creating an online pathway connecting students - from beginners to experienced musicians - with professional instruction. So, relax and enjoy the music!

Events of Note:

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN

Dave and Mike are excited to start Season 2 of Mountain Music Breakdown with an in-depth interview of Chris Jones, front man of  Wolf Jett. He shares fascinating insights into the band's evolution from a Southern country acoustic string-band to a versatile festival powerhouse. They touch on the impacts of the pandemic and California fires, the healing energy in music, the diverse influences on Chris’ music, and more. Welcome back to the conversation - relax and enjoy the music!

Wolf Jett songs recommended by Chris:

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In this second episode Mike and Dave continue their fascinating discussion with bluegrass legend Laurie Lewis. During our interview we talk more about Laurie's friendships within the industry and her work with multiple musicians, including Linda Ronstadt and Kenny Baker. We also learn more about her life away from the stage. Enjoy!

Sitting down with the legendary Laurie Lewis has been an honor for Mike and Dave. A renowned singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist, Laurie has for nearly four decades, gathered fans and honors. Pull up a seat and join the conversation!

"Laurie has shown how a woman can blend into any part of the classic bluegrass singing trio, and she showed us how a great voice could move fluidly between bluegrass and other types of music.  She has shown how a Californian can appeal to traditional bluegrass audiences, as well as winning acclaim in the worlds of Americana and folk music."

Events of Note:

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN

This week's interview is with Joe Suskind and Crystal Lariza, members of the award winning Portland-based band Never Come Down. Getting ready to kick off a busy tour season, the band sat down with Mike and Dave for a wide ranging interview.  We talk about their life on the road, their unique blending of Americana and bluegrass sounds, songwriting and finding that sweet spot for their outstanding vocal harmonies. Enjoy!

Events of Note:

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN

This week Dave and Mike sit with one of Nashville's premier banjo players, Frank Evans. He’s appeared with Old Crow Medicine Show, Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, and is currently touring with Bronwyn Keith-Hynes. Don't just take our word for his virtuosity – Banjo Newsletter cites "Frank is one of the top banjo players of his generation."

When he's not touring, Frank is a beloved member of the local music and jam scene in Nashville. We're proud that Frank is an Advisory member to the Board for our nonprofit Shasta Mountain Music.

Events of Note:

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN

Dave Reynolds sit down with musician, organizer, and activist Linda Leavitt and banjo maker / inventor Tom Nechville for an engaging discussion about music, craft, and community.

Presented by Shasta Mountain Music, the episode highlights artists, events, and instrument makers from the Pacific Northwest.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN

Dave and Mike have a wide ranging discussion with Helen Ludé of Wisteria Management. She takes us behind the scenes -  the life of a touring band, John Hartford's musical legacy, managing major music events, and  the future of bluegrass. Dave also provides a glimpse into the thriving musical community and scene in and around Shasta Mountain, California. Enjoy!

Events of Note:

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN

Mike sits down with Dave Reynolds, Executive Director of Shasta Mountain Music (and co-host of the podcast) to discuss a wide range of topics. Join in and learn about the origin of the organization, the amazing artists who will perform there in 2026 – and the Australian Gold Rush! Pull up a chair and enjoy the conversation,

Mountain Music Breakdown is a production of Shasta Mountain Music, in conjunction with Bluegrass BKLYN