Colorado musician Mystee talks being deported from the U.K., roller derby, and doing back-to-back gigs

05/22/23 • 19 min

Born outside of Boston and now Loveland based, band Mystee made their debut in the Indie Lounge back in April. The frontwoman and founder, Ilana Held, told us this wasn't her first music project. Held ventured to Cardiff, Wales for a songwriting Masters program. While there she did what any musician would typically do: she formed a band. The band created songs and performed gigs, but eventually it came to a halt when Held was deported for violating her visa. This isn't the only wild story that led to Mystee's origins. Watch this latest session with the Local 303 alum to hear more about her and the band's pursuits and listen to some of their latest tunes stripped down.

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DeVotchKa teams up with the Boulder Philharmonic for an epically unique show

DeVotchka has been a mainstay Colorado band for almost two decades. Known for their quirky instrumentalism and playful storytelling, their art has been celebrated beyond concert venues and has dazzled audiences in the theatre and on the big screen. Now, DeVotchKa takes on a new venture: performing alongside the Boulder Philharmonic. To learn more about the momentous collaboration members Nick Urata, Jeanie King, and Tom Hagerman chat with Boulder Philharmonic Executive Director Sara Parkinson ahead of their May 6th show. Also, watch as DeVotchKa performs a few songs from the arrangements spanning their expansive discography including a cover and the famous Little Miss Sunshine Soundtrack.