Songs & Stories

Show Notes
In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into a fascinating conversation with singer-songwriter Vienna Teng.

Known for her boundary-pushing approach to chamber folk and indie pop, Vienna discusses her latest album, We’ve Got You, an ambitious project featuring mashups that reflect the dualities of modern life. From the conceptual depth of "Two Truths" to the poignant tribute of "Comfort," Vienna shares the intricate creative process behind her songs and how her environmental work influences her music.

Listeners will also get an exclusive preview of her upcoming concert at Freight and Salvage in Berkeley. Vienna reveals exciting collaborations, spontaneous setlist moments, and a personal touch she adds to her performances. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her music, this episode showcases Vienna’s unique artistry and heartfelt mission to inspire change through song.

Guest Information:

Call-To-Action:
Don’t miss Vienna Teng live at Freight and Salvage in Berkeley on Saturday, December 28, at 8 PM. Tickets are available now at thefreight.org. Be sure to check out Vienna's website for tour dates, merch, and more!
Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more behind-the-scenes conversations with today’s top artists.

Podcast Playlist:

Essential Takeaways:

Hashtags:
#ViennaTeng #WeveGotYou #ChamberFolk #IndiePop #ClimateAction #BackstageBayArea #LiveMusic #FreightAndSalvage #PodcastInterview

Show Notes
In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with acclaimed singer-songwriter Sean Hayes, whose music bridges folk, soul, and introspective grooves.

They delve into the creative journey behind Sean's latest album, Be Like Water, exploring its thematic inspirations drawn from the I Ching and the funky influence of James Brown. Sean also shares the whimsical backstory of the song "Gold Tooth" and offers insight into the powerful, meditative single "That Bomb You Signed."

Listeners will discover Sean’s unique songwriting process, which blends improvisation with deeply emotional storytelling, and get a preview of what to expect at his upcoming show at Little Saint in Healdsburg on December 28.

Whether you enjoy his intimate lyrics or dynamic live performances, this episode has heartfelt anecdotes and fascinating musical insights.

Guest Information:

Call-To-Action:
Love what you hear? Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for exclusive artist interviews and behind-the-scenes stories. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with fellow music enthusiasts!

Get your tickets for Sean Hayes’ upcoming show at Little Saint in Healdsburg on December 28 at 7 p.m. here. Make it a night to remember with dinner reservations at their café downstairs before the show.

Podcast Playlist:

Essential Takeaways:

Hashtags:
#BackstageBayArea #SeanHayes #BeLikeWater #FolkSoulMusic #SingerSongwriter #PodcastInterview #MusicStories #LiveMusic

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into the mind-bending world of The Third Mind with bassist and co-founder Victor Krummenacher. 

 Known for his work with Camper Van Beethoven and Monks of Doom, Victor shares the story behind the band’s formation, their freeform creative process, and the making of their upcoming live concert album, Live Mind. 

From their haunting rendition of “Morning Dew” to the experimental brilliance of “East West,” the conversation explores how The Third Mind pushes the boundaries of psychedelic rock.

Victor also reflects on the art of improvisation, the band's collaborative dynamic, and the timeless relevance of protest songs today. 

Listeners will get an insider’s look at The Third Mind’s upcoming shows at the Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma and The Chapel in San Francisco, where new music and unexpected moments are guaranteed.

Guest Information:

Call-To-Action:
Don’t miss the chance to experience The Third Mind live! Catch them at the Sebastiani Theatre in Sonoma on December 20 and The Chapel in San Francisco on December 21. Get your tickets now:

Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more intimate conversations with the artists shaping the music scene. Follow us on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for the latest episodes.

Podcast Playlist:

Essential Takeaways:

Hashtags:
#BackstageBayArea #TheThirdMind #VictorKrummenacher #PsychedelicRock #Improvisation #LiveMusic #MorningDew #EastWest #BayAreaMusic

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby chats with Emily Turner, bassist and vocalist of the genre-bending trio Free Creatures. 

Hailing from Southern Oregon, Free Creatures fuses alt-hip-hop, indie, psych-rock, and EDM to create what they call "the umami of music." Emily shares the band’s journey from its unique beginnings on a farm during wildfire season to becoming a powerhouse trio with a sound that defies boundaries. From the upright bass to the MPC beats and left-handed guitar magic, this band is as eclectic as it is innovative.

We also explore the stories behind fan-favorite tracks like “Inviting You In” and “Get It Done,” their upcoming vinyl release of While We Can, and their exciting plans for 2025, including live album recordings and new collaborations. 

Plus, get a sneak peek at what to expect at their December 12th show at the Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley—a holiday dance party that promises shopping, secret guest musicians, and pure Free Creatures magic.

Guest Information:

Emily Turner

Call-To-Action:

Don’t miss Free Creatures at the Sweetwater Music Hall on December 12th! Doors open at 7:00 PM, and the show kicks off with Mill Valley’s Maggie Trevers at 8:00 PM. Get your tickets now: Sweetwater Music Hall Tickets.

Support the podcast by subscribing on YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Stay tuned for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes music stories!

Podcast Playlist:

Essential Episode Takeaways:

Suggested Hashtags:

#FreeCreatures #BackstageBayArea #SweetwaterMusicHall #WhileWeCan #UmamiOfMusic #IndieMusic #LiveMusic #HolidayDanceParty

Show Notes

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews Miles and Teo Quale, the talented brothers behind the Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band.

Known for their electrifying fusion of bluegrass, jazz, and modern acoustic styles, Crying Uncle has become a rising force in the acoustic music scene. They recently signed with Engelhardt Music Group, solidifying their place as emerging stars in the genre.

Miles and Teo share their journey, from starting the band in 2016 to performing with legends like David Grisman and Marty Stuart. They discuss the inspiration behind their heartfelt single "I’ll Be Here Either Way" and the instrumental brilliance of their track "Roland." Please tune in to discover their creative process, musical evolution, and what fans can look forward to at their upcoming Hop Monk Novato show.

Guest Information:

Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band

About the Guests:
Miles and Teo Quale are accomplished young musicians at the forefront of modern bluegrass. Their innovative blend of traditional and contemporary influences has captivated audiences and garnered praise from industry icons.

Call-To-Action:

Like the episode? Don’t miss Crying Uncle live at Hop Monk Novato on Friday, December 20, at 8 p.m. Get your tickets here.

Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more intimate conversations with artists shaping today’s music scene. Please find us on YouTube and Apple Podcasts.

Podcast Playlist:

1.    “BABA Black Sheep” - Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band

2.   “I’ll Be Here Either Way” - Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band

3.   “Roland” - Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band

Essential Episode Takeaways:

Hashtags:

#BackstageBayArea #CryingUncle #BluegrassMusic #LiveMusic #HopMonkNovato #MusicPodcast

Show Notes:

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews singer-songwriter Jennifer Greer to discuss the deeply personal journey behind her new album, Speaking with Ghosts.

From her transition from poetry to songwriting to navigating grief and loss, Jennifer talks about how life’s “tidal waves” shaped her music. We also hear about the unique imagery and emotional landscapes that inspired songs like "Broken Glass," "Tidal Wave," and "Sea and Shell."

Jennifer shares her creative process, her dynamic trio, and the joy of performing with collaborators. Plus, she previews her upcoming CD release show at The Backroom in Berkeley on December 15th. Tune in for heartfelt conversation and captivating music that bridges the emotional and the ethereal.

Guest Information:

Jennifer Greer
A Bay Area-based singer-songwriter, Jennifer Greer combines poetic imagery and melodic grooves in her unique sound. Her latest album, Speaking with Ghosts, captures themes of love, loss, and resilience.

Call-To-Action:

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to:

Podcast Playlist:

1.    "Broken Glass" – Jennifer Greer

2.   "Tidal Wave" – Jennifer Greer

3.   "Sea and Shell" – Jennifer Greer

Essential Takeaways:

Hashtags:

#BackstageBayArea #JenniferGreer #SpeakingWithGhosts #SingerSongwriter #LiveMusic #BayAreaMusic #CDRelease #SongwritingJourney #MusicAndGrief

Show Notes:

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Noah Sierota, bassist and producer of the multi-platinum alt-pop trio Echosmith. 

 Celebrating ten years of music, Echosmith embarks on their Cool Kids Decades Tour and releases their latest project, Echosmith: The Live Album. Noah reflects on the band’s evolution since their breakout hit "Cool Kids," sharing insights on creating music as a family and reconnecting with their indie roots. 

 The episode also spotlights the inspiration behind their updated version of "Cool Kids" and their latest single, "Jaded."

Noah also offers a glimpse into the band’s creative process and what fans can expect from their upcoming West Coast tour, including an intimate performance at San Francisco's Brick-and-Mortar Music Hall. 

Please tune in for stories about the band's early days, their connection to San Francisco, and how they’ve kept their music honest and relatable across a decade.

Guest Information:

Noah Sierota
Bassist, producer, and songwriter for Echosmith.
Website: www.echosmith.com
Tickets for the Brick-and-Mortar Music Hall show: brickandmortarmusic.com

Essential Takeaways:

1.    Echosmith’s creative journey celebrates authenticity, family dynamics, and evolving sounds.

2.   Their latest tour revisits the nostalgia of their iconic song "Cool Kids" while embracing their indie roots.

3.   Fans can connect to the band more deeply in intimate venues like San Francisco's Brick-and-Mortar Music Hall.

Call-To-Action:

Love what you hear? Make sure to subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more conversations with artists shaping the music scene.

Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@Backstagebayarea
Follow us on Apple Podcasts: Songs & Stories

Hashtags:

#Echosmith #CoolKidsDecadesTour #BackstageBayArea #IndiePop #LiveMusic #SanFranciscoConcerts #MusicPodcast

Show Notes

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with six-time Grammy-nominated jazz fusion guitarist Mike Stern. Known for his legendary collaborations with icons like Miles Davis and the Brecker Brothers, Mike shares insights into his creative process for his latest album, Echoes and Other Songs. 

The album features a stellar lineup, including Dennis Chambers, Bob Franceschini, Janek Gwizdala, and Leni Stern. Mike shares the musical and personal influences shaping this deeply heartfelt project, including a touching dedication to his late friend Jim Beard.

The conversation also explores Mike’s upcoming performances at Yoshi’s Oakland, where he’ll deliver electrifying sets with his all-star band. Whether you're a longtime jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the artistry and passion behind one of jazz fusion’s living legends.

Guest Information

Mike Stern
Mike Stern is a celebrated jazz guitarist, composer, and bandleader. With over four decades of groundbreaking contributions to the jazz and fusion world, his work inspires audiences worldwide. His new album, Echoes, and Other Songs is available now.

Call-To-Action

Don’t miss Mike Stern’s upcoming performances at Yoshi’s Oakland on December 16 and 17. Grab your tickets now at Yoshi’s before they sell out! Be sure to subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more conversations with music legends.

Episode Takeaways

Hashtags

#BackstageBayArea #MikeStern #JazzFusion #EchoesAndOtherSongs #LiveAtYoshis #JazzMusic #MusicPodcast

Show Notes:

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Carolyn Kendrick, a Stockton-born singer-songwriter, fiddler, and producer, to discuss her highly anticipated album, Each Machine, which will be released on December 6th. 

Known for blending traditional folk music with modern themes, Kendrick takes listeners on a deep dive into the inspiration behind her new project, which fuses Appalachian melodies, archival audio, and poetic storytelling to reflect on the societal "machines" that shape our lives.

Carolyn shares insights into her creative process, her early musical influences (from Billie Holiday to The Grateful Dead), and the collaborations that helped shape the record. She also discusses how researching the Satanic Panic for the podcast You’re Wrong About influenced the album's conceptual and lyrical themes. 

Tune in for an intimate conversation and exclusive previews of tracks like “Perfect World,” “Devil’s Nine Questions,” and “Leela.”

Guest Information:

Carolyn Kendrick

Don’t miss Carolyn’s live performance at The Backroom in Berkeley on December 5th!
Get tickets here.

Call-To-Action:

Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more intimate conversations with the Bay Area’s most exciting artists. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with fellow music lovers!

Episode Takeaways:

Hashtags:

#BackstageBayArea #CarolynKendrick #EachMachine #FolkMusic #BayAreaMusic #SingerSongwriter #PodcastLife

Show Notes:

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby dives into an insightful conversation with Njioma Chinyere Grevious from the Abeo Quartet, a dynamic group of musicians redefining chamber music with passion and precision. 

Described as “superb” by the Chicago Classical Review, violinist Njioma Chinyere Grevious is an emerging, passionate, and versatile solo, chamber, and orchestral musician and performer. She is a graduate of The Juilliard School and a winner of its John Erskine Prize for scholastic and artistic achievement, and in 2024 was awarded an Avery Fisher Career Grant.

From their creative processes to their upcoming live concert, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the Abeo Quartet balances artistry, collaboration, and storytelling through music. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or simply curious about the world of string quartets, this episode will inspire you.

Guest Information:

Abeo Quartet
The Abeo Quartet has been captivating audiences with their innovative approach to chamber music. Known for their technical brilliance and passionate performances, the quartet aims to create meaningful experiences through their craft.

Call-To-Action:

Don’t miss Abeo Quartet’s upcoming concerts in Inverness (December 6-7). Get your tickets now.
Enjoy this episode? Subscribe to Backstage Sonoma on YouTube and Apple Podcasts for more intimate conversations with artists shaping today’s music scene.

Episode Takeaways:

1.    The Abeo Quartet’s mission is to connect classical music with modern audiences.

2.   The significance of community engagement through music.

3.   How collaboration shapes their unique sound.

Hashtags:

#AbeoQuartet #ChamberMusic #MusicEducation #ClassicalMusic