Uncovering the musical evolution of Gradients, this episode takes listeners behind the curtain with a Minnesota rock band crafting their sound somewhere in the gradient between hard rock, alternative, and metal. The conversation reveals how a college talent show in 2019 sparked what would become a serious musical endeavor, bringing together musicians with surprisingly diverse influences.

What makes Gradients fascinating is their authentic approach to creating music. Three of the members hold audio production degrees and live together, allowing for a constant creative environment where songs emerge organically—sometimes from structured writing sessions, other times from spontaneous late-night jams. The band discusses how their influences range from the Beatles and 70s hard rock to more modern acts like Royal Blood and Arctic Monkeys, creating a unique sonic fingerprint that defies easy categorization.

The episode dives deep into their recording process, with the band handling all aspects of production themselves using Logic Pro and carefully planned microphone techniques. We learn how they’ve evolved from quick demo recordings to more sophisticated production approaches, while maintaining the raw energy that defines their sound. Drummer Trevor, who joined more recently, shares his perspective on learning songs that were already recorded and how his punk-influenced style complements the band’s sound.

Throughout the conversation runs a thread of friendship and camaraderie—from elaborate pranks (including fully carpeting a bandmate’s bathroom) to their shared commitment to high-energy live performances. The band emphasizes how showmanship matters as much as technical skill, with the goal of creating memorable experiences for audiences. With upcoming performances at the Red Carpet in St. Cloud and a new album “Come What May,” Gradients represents what happens when musical passion meets technical skill and genuine friendship.

Want to experience Gradients for yourself? Follow them on social media to catch their upcoming shows and hear their latest releases. Your next favorite rock band might be just a concert away!

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Gradience: https://gradiencerock.wixsite.com/my-site

When Stephanie Rabus sits behind a microphone, magic happens. The Nashville country artist brings a rare authenticity to her music that cuts through the noise of formulaic radio hits. On this episode, Stephanie takes us behind the curtain of her musical journey, revealing the bittersweet path that shaped both her sound and her soul.

Stephanie’s story begins with family—specifically, joining her father’s band “40 South” at age 21, where she injected contemporary hits into their oldies repertoire. This early experience planted seeds for her versatile musical approach that refuses to be boxed into just one sound. “I wanted to incorporate a little bit of all my influences,” she explains, discussing her album “My Time Now” which seamlessly blends country, pop, blues, and rock elements while maintaining a cohesive heart.

What makes Stephanie’s music stand apart is its emotional depth. Her latest single “Pray You Down” emerged after profound personal losses—a close friend and band member, followed by her boyfriend’s mother. The raw vulnerability in her performance transforms grief into something universally healing. “I know everyone can relate to just wishing they could talk to that person again,” she shares, highlighting how music bridges our deepest human experiences.

The conversation ventures into the realities of navigating music as an independent artist—the creative freedom balanced against financial challenges. Stephanie candidly discusses her collaborations with producers Justine Blazer and Brandon Heneger, opening for established artists like Lee Brice, and how childhood struggles with self-image and health issues ultimately strengthened her connection to music. “When I got to sing in school, people started complimenting me… it felt like there’s something good here, something I can be confident in.”

Stephanie’s father emerges as her unsung hero, championing her talent and handling behind-the-scenes work without compensation. His unwavering belief reflects what makes Stephanie’s musical journey so compelling—authenticity always finds its audience. Whether you’re a longtime country fan or just discovering her music, Stephanie Rabus delivers songs that feel like conversations with an old friend who truly understands your heart.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Stephanie Rabus: https://stephanierabus.net/

What happens when a Broadway performer steps away from the stage for a decade to raise children, then reemerges as a recording artist? In this candid conversation, Ann Kittredge reveals the unexpected twists in her artistic journey from theater to acclaimed vocalist.

The heart of Kittredge’s approach lies in her commitment to storytelling above all else. “I don’t ever want it to be about my voice,” she explains, detailing how she molds her vocal style to serve each song rather than imposing herself upon it. This chameleon-like flexibility allows her to move effortlessly between genres – from jazz and swing to country and folk – creating albums that defy easy categorization but maintain emotional authenticity.

Kittredge shares a particularly moving story about her determination to record Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man” as a love letter to music itself, despite her team’s initial resistance. After bringing the song to planning meetings four separate times, she finally issued an ultimatum: “I have to do this song…if you really don’t like it, you have my permission to not be involved.” The song eventually became one of her most requested numbers, illustrating how creative conviction can overcome collaborative doubt.

Perhaps most revealing is Kittredge’s honesty about returning to performing after a decade-long hiatus to raise her children. “Confidence has been a big challenge,” she admits, describing how she initially knew she “wasn’t good” but recognized that improvement required persistence through discomfort. This vulnerability transformed into strength when her pandemic-inspired debut album – originally intended just for her children – unexpectedly garnered over a million streams on Spotify.

Whether discussing caring for her mother with Alzheimer’s, navigating her marriage of nearly forty years, or reimagining classic songs, Kittredge demonstrates that artistic growth often emerges from life’s complexities rather than despite them. Her story offers powerful encouragement for anyone considering a creative reinvention at any age. Listen, be inspired, and then seek out the extraordinary work of independent artists like Kittredge who deserve your support.

Links

• Jay Franze: https://JayFranze.com
• Ann Kittredge: https://www.annkittredge.com/