Top Hill Recording Podcast

Louisville’s Funksway brings together R&B, funk, soul, rock, pop, and reggae, pulling from a wide range of influences to create a sound that’s hard to pin down. With inspiration ranging from Ohio Players and Sly & The Family Stone to Miguel, Coldplay, and Red Hot Chili Peppers, the band moves comfortably between styles, putting its own spin on familiar songs and adding original material to the mix.At the heart of Funksway is a love for a good groove, strong musicianship, and the kind of live music that makes it hard to stand still.

Jane Doe and the Search Party are a doom-punk band from Louisville, KY, putting their own spin on the punk sound. They mix the heaviness and darkness of doom with the energy and attitude of punk. Their songs hit hard, and their live shows are loud, energetic, and a whole lot of fun.

Mike Bandanna is an independent hip-hop artist whose music spans introspective songwriting, collaborative projects, and contemporary rap. Active since at least 2017, Bandanna has developed a catalog of singles, EPs, and collaborative recordings while performing throughout the regional independent music scene.His early releases include While I Wait (2017), Streetlights (2018), and EASTSIDE_LINGO (2022). His more recent work includes The Road to Hell Is Paved With Good Intentions, a seven-track project featuring a collaboration with Casey Powell.

Self-described as "Just a band from Louisville."Singer/Guitarist: Jared FoosDrummer: Nick BeachBassist/Vocalist: John Roach

LUCYTHEDOG is a Louisville, Kentucky band with a blended sound of their own.

Max Donohue is an emerging singer-songwriter blending the melodic appeal of indie-pop with the energy and authenticity of indie-rock. His EP Mixed Signals reflects the influence of artists such as Harry Styles, Noah Kahan, and indie band The Moss, while showcasing Donohue’s own developing sound and songwriting identity. With a focus on memorable melodies, contemporary production, and emotionally engaging songs, Mixed Signals establishes Donohue as an artist to watch within the evolving indie music landscape.

Jarley Yung is a band from Lexington, Kentucky that plays hard rock and blues rock. The band consists of guitarist Miles James, drummer Jack James, and bassist Hilliard "Gentry" Needham.

Kai Muhammad is a singer in Louisville, KY known for his soulful vocals, engaging stage presence, and versatile repertoire spanning R&B, soul, gospel, jazz, and contemporary music. His passion for connecting with audiences and delivering authentic performances has made him a standout voice in the local music community.

Nashville, Tennessee-based singer-songwriter and guitarist Ian Abel brings a powerful, stripped-down approach to the Top Hill Recording Podcast with his solo acoustic performances. Known as the frontman of the Ian Abel Band, Abel has built a reputation for blending heartfelt songwriting with dynamic guitar work that ranges from intimate and soulful to energetic and commanding.

An international award-winning guitarist, Ian gained widespread recognition when the Ian Abel Band’s breakout track “Shoes” was licensed by All Elite Wrestling for the Cody and Dustin Rhodes promo featured at the inaugural Double or Nothing pay-per-view. The video earned a nomination for Best Song/Score in a Trailer at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards.

Ian has toured as lead guitarist for T. Graham Brown and has shared stages with artists including Dillon Carmichael, Canadian trio The Heels, and Australian artist Brittany Elise. His music has been featured on Spotify and Apple Music and praised by outlets such as 91.9 WFPK, which described his sound as “an expansive, stadium-ready rock sound.”

As a solo acoustic performer, Abel offers a more personal side of his music — delivering emotionally driven originals, engaging storytelling, and reimagined versions of his rock-driven catalog with raw authenticity and skilled musicianship. He has performed at the Grand Ole Opry and iconic venues including the Troubadour, Whisky a Go Go, and Viper Room, captivating audiences with performances that showcase both his technical ability and heartfelt songwriting.

Midday Mayday is a Louisville-based punk/metalcore band delivering crushing riffs, chaotic energy, and just the right amount of self-awareness. Describing themselves as “a very professional and serious band that plays our serious songs with professionalism and seriousness,” the group blends heavy breakdowns with an unmistakable sense of humor that keeps crowds guessing. Equal parts aggression and satire, Midday Mayday feels like the soundtrack to your older brother’s burned CD collection — loud enough to shake the walls and sharp enough to leave a mark. Whether they’re tearing through a packed basement show or a local venue stage, Midday Mayday proves that being your older brother’s favorite band is still a title worth fighting for.