Free-Range Folk and Harmonies: A Conversation with Megan McLaughlin of The Musers

10/17/24 • 26 min

Show Notes

On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, we’re excited to sit down with Megan McLaughlin, singer, guitarist, and songwriter for the Sonoma County-based folk quartet, The Musers.

Known for their unique blend of free-range folk, bluegrass, and Americana, The Musers are a local favorite, delivering dynamic harmonies and multi-instrumental performances that enthrall their audiences.

In this interview, Megan dives deep into the band’s creative process, the inspiration behind their recent releases, and what makes their genre-defying music so unique. We’ll explore their latest singles, “Women Are” and “Poppy in the Rain,” and take a look at the thought-provoking visuals for their video “Pot o' Beans.” With an upcoming performance at The Lost Church, The Musers are gearing up for a lively show you won’t want to miss. Join us as we go backstage with Megan McLaughlin.

Episode Highlights:

Megan introduces The Musers and shares the band’s origin story.

The concept of “free-range folk” and how it reflects The Musers' eclectic musical influences.

Behind-the-scenes stories of the singles “Women Are” and “Poppy in the Rain.”

Insights into their new music video for “Pot o' Beans.”

Megan’s thoughts on songwriting within the group and their collaborative dynamic.

A preview of The Musers' upcoming show at The Lost Church in Santa Rosa.

Memorable Quotes:

"We call it free-range folk because it gives us the freedom to blend folk, bluegrass, and Americana without being boxed into a single style."

“Women Are is a celebration of strength, resilience, and the often-unseen work that women do—it’s a song for everyone who’s ever felt underestimated.”

“With so many instruments at our disposal, it’s really about finding the sound that best serves the song, whether it’s a mandolin, banjo, or fiddle.”

Featured Songs:

"Women Are"

"Poppy in the Rain"

"Pot o' Beans"

Links:

Official website for The Musers: https://www.themusersband.com/

Watch the video for “Pot o' Beans” on YouTube: (https://youtube.com).

Get tickets to The Musers' show at The Lost Church: [The Lost Church](https://thelostchurch.org).

Social Media Hashtags:

#BackstageSonoma #TheMusers #FreeRangeFolk #WomenAre #PoppyInTheRain #SonomaCountyMusic #FolkMusic #AmericanaMusic #LiveMusicSantaRosa #SupportLocalBands

Show Notes

On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, we’re excited to sit down with Megan McLaughlin, singer, guitarist, and songwriter for the Sonoma County-based folk quartet, The Musers.

Episode Highlights:

Megan introduces The Musers and shares the band’s origin story.

The concept of “free-range folk” and how it reflects The Musers' eclectic musical influences.

Behind-the-scenes stories of the singles “Women Are” and “Poppy in the Rain.”

Insights into their new music video for “Pot o' Beans.”

Megan’s thoughts on songwriting within the group and their collaborative dynamic.

A preview of The Musers' upcoming show at The Lost Church in Santa Rosa.

Memorable Quotes:

"We call it free-range folk because it gives us the freedom to blend folk, bluegrass, and Americana without being boxed into a single style."

“Women Are is a celebration of strength, resilience, and the often-unseen work that women do—it’s a song for everyone who’s ever felt underestimated.”

“With so many instruments at our disposal, it’s really about finding the sound that best serves the song, whether it’s a mandolin, banjo, or fiddle.”

Featured Songs:

"Women Are"

"Poppy in the Rain"

"Pot o' Beans"

Links:

Official website for The Musers: https://www.themusersband.com/

Watch the video for “Pot o' Beans” on YouTube: (https://youtube.com).

Get tickets to The Musers' show at The Lost Church: [The Lost Church](https://thelostchurch.org).

Social Media Hashtags:

#BackstageSonoma #TheMusers #FreeRangeFolk #WomenAre #PoppyInTheRain #SonomaCountyMusic #FolkMusic #AmericanaMusic #LiveMusicSantaRosa #SupportLocalBands

Previous Episode

Kellen Coffis on the new album, ‘Kaw-fis Bruth-urs’

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby interviews Kellen Coffis of The Coffis Brothers, a band that has carved its path in the Northern California music scene.

With the highly anticipated release of their sixth studio album, Kaw-fis Bruth-urs, on November 29, 2024, Kellen opens up about making the record, which longtime collaborator Tim Bluhm produced. He delves into the inspiration behind the music, the significance of their Santa Cruz roots, and how the band has evolved.

Fans will enjoy this insightful look into the creative process of a group that is growing musically while staying true to its classic Rootsy Rock ‘n’ Roll sound.

Kellen also reflects on the band's touring experience, the camaraderie between members, and the recording sessions at various studios, including Space Camp and Mosswood Sound. This interview provides a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Kaw-fis Bruth-urs and gives listeners a preview of what to expect from The Coffis Brothers' latest chapter.

Episode Highlights:

Kellen Coffis talks about the creative process behind Kaw-fis Bruth-urs and collaborating with producer Tim Bluhm.
The evolution of The Coffis Brothers' sound and how they balance growth while staying true to their roots.
Insight into the recording sessions across multiple studios, including Space Camp in Forestville and Mosswood Sound.
Kellen shares stories behind key tracks from the new album and memorable moments from their career.

Featured Songs:

"Cut Right Through”
"Do You Want To"
"Take It From Me"

Links:

· The Coffis Brothers Official Website

· Tickets for The Coffis Brothers at Sweetwater Music Hall

· Backstage Sonoma Podcast

Social Media Hashtags:
#TheCoffisBrothers #KawfisBruthurs #TimBluhm #CaliforniaMusic #RootsRock #NewMusic2024

Next Episode

Jeffrey Foucault, on his latest album, ‘The Universal Fire'

Show Notes

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby interviews acclaimed singer-songwriter Jeffrey Foucault for an intimate conversation about his musical journey, creative process, and new album, The Universal Fire . Known for his deep, introspective lyrics and distinctive Americana sound, Jeffrey shares the influences that shaped his music, from his early days in the Midwest to his latest releases.

Throughout the episode, Jeffrey offers fascinating insights into the songwriting craft, revealing how he finds inspiration in everyday life and how his experiences on the road inform the themes of his work. With a discography that spans more than two decades, this conversation dives deep into his style of music, a solid mixture of country, folk, and good ol’ rock and roll.

Episode Highlights

Jeffrey talks about the influence of his upbringing on his music, from growing up in rural Wisconsin to discovering the world of folk and country music.

Insights into his creative process: how he approaches songwriting and storytelling's role in his work.

Jeffrey reflects on the evolution of his sound and the musicians that have helped shape his albums over the years.

Jeffrey discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing life on the road with family and personal life.

Featured Songs:

"Universal Fire"

"Solo Modelo"

"Night Shift"

Links:

Jeffrey Foucault's Official Website

Listen to The Universal Fire

Tix for Sweetwater Music Hall show

Social Media Hashtags: