Next Paperback Hero is the name of Nathan Honoré’s Milwaukee-based project as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Throughout his songs, melodic baritone vocals deliver sincere, confessional lyrics with the intimate qualities of a singer-songwriter who creates a distinctly soulful, dynamic experience. This is one for fans of The National, Elliott Smith, boygenius and Bon Iver.

In this episode, Nathan talks about the inspiration behind his hopeful, water-centric song called “Tip of My Toes,” which was inspired by a writing prompt and appears on 2024 release Waves. Use the player at the top of the page or your favorite podcast app to hear the conversation and a taste of Next Paperback Hero’s set from State of Sound’s September concert showcase.

While you listen, snap up the buy-one-get-one ticket offer available right now for November’s State of Sound featuring Bear in the Forest, Rat Bath, Dark Psychic and Ellie Jackson.

Milwaukee's Pulpa de Guayaba is a six-piece, multi-instrumentalist, bilingual reggae soul band that draws from psychedelic cumbias and jazz. The band takes listeners on a journey across musical and cultural boundaries. Their name means “Guava Pulp," a nod to their diverse roots and influences, which blend to create new and exciting sounds.

Our guest for this episode, vocalist and band leader Dominick Dear, is not only a singer-songwriter and performer. He's also an adventurer — a man chasing a dream fueled by passion and curiosity, using this thing he loves called music to help him navigate life. We chatted about the inspiration behind the band’s song, “Talk to Me,” which is all about manifesting magic before it’s even created.

State of Sound for August was such a fun, eclectic show representing the idea of what it means to highlight musicians from the great state of Wisconsin. Long Mama brought a tender, earnest energy to the stage and found time before that to sit down wtih 88Nine music director Erin Wolf for a chat about being alone on the road being perfectly imperfect and bridging crossings. After the live set, a cool conversation about the inspiration behind their song, "Poor Pretender."

Secret Menu is a genre-blending-bending alternative rock band known for their rich vocal harmonies, technical arrangements, and authentic story-driven lyrics. They came through our space in August and left a distinct trace. This is the show of Erin Wolf and the band put us in the know.

State of Sound for August was such a fun, eclectic show representing the idea of what it means to highlight musicians from the great state of Wisconsin. Waldemar brought great energy to the stage and found time before that to sit down wtih 88Nine music director Erin Wolf for a chat about the inspiration behind her song, "Summer Rain."

State of Sound for August was such a fun, eclectic show representing the idea of what it means to highlight musicians from the great state of Wisconsin. ANDII brought smooth calming energy to the stage and found time before that to sit down wtih 88Nine music director Erin Wolf for a chat about the inspiration behind her song, "Summer Rain."

During our Pride edition of the State of Sound live concert showcase, Milwaukee's own Lady SabO shared some of her relatable, unpredictable and enlightening songs with our audience. In addition, she spoke with Erin Wolf about the track "freespace" off of 2024 EP ibnsabo2.

Milwaukee hyperpop artist Cyrus Chrome creates ethereal sounds to blissfully dance to, but their music goes deeper than something that merely gets you moving. It often centers around facing fears, growth and the healing process — all of which lends feelings of catharsis and peace. On this episode, guest host Carolann Grzybowski talked with Cyrus about the inspiration behind their song “Shoyu.”

Also, tickets are on sale right now for our next State of Sound live show coming up Aug. 3. This always-packed night of music extends all the way to the western reaches of Wisconsin and headliner Waldemar, who will bring their heartland indie rock from Eau Claire to Milwaukee. You’ll also get sets from ANDII, Long Mama and Secret Menu, plus drinks from Discourse. Grab your tickets now, and we’ll see you there!

Ashley Altadonna is the lead singer, guitarist and songwriter for Milwaukee’s jangle pop-rock band, Vacancy Chain. Originally from Houston, Altadonna moved in 2000 to attend UW-Milwaukee's Film School. She was also the singer/songwriter for Milwaukee bands New Blind Nationals and The Glacial Speed. 

Currently, Altadonna is a freelance videographer/illustrator, sexual health and wellness educator at the Tool Shed Erotic Boutique, trans advocate and mom. She chatted with 88Nine music director Erin Wolf about the inspiration behind Vacancy Chain’s song, “Loblolly.”

State of Sound for May was such a fun eclectic show. Jacob Slade brought his vibe and his musical prowess to the stage. 88Nine Music Director Erin Wolf caught up with Jacob before his live performance at the Radio Milwaukee studios to talk about the song, "However You May"