Episode thirteen features tracks from La Crosse’s Ska & Reggae veterans T.U.G.G., energetic Twin Cities pop-rock quintet Joey Ryan & The Inks, Rochester/Winona experimental rock trio Grey Matter Black, and MN folk/blues institution Papa John Kolstad, as well as a set of related tunes by nomadic mad-cap rock legends Baker London, avant-jazz act Matty Harris Quartet, and Rochester blues prodigy Trent Romens (featuring Johnny Becker).

I was introduced to the fantastic music of Baker London during my time living in Decorah. Formed in 2005 in Chicago, members live in LA, Minneapolis, and Olympia WA, but have deep roots in Decorah and return to visit or perform somewhat regularly (I caught two live performances during my time there). Baker London blends rock, ska, country, and folk to create a sound that is both familiar and strikingly original. Founding member, songwriter, vocalist and guitarist Trevor Grimm tragically passed away in 2007.

The remaining members have re-worked, re-arranged and re-recorded several of Grimm’s compositions over the course of creating their 9+ album discography. “Mannequin Factory” is one such example; originally appearing on their first album in 2006 with Grimm on vocals (click here for that version). The version featured in this episode is from 2010 and is a much refined and fuller realization of Grimm’s unique vision.

Stream or download this episode via archive.org by CLICKING HERE.

Papa John Kolstad
“You Don’t Mean Me No Good”
Papa John Kolstad And The Hot Club Of East Lake
Wampus Cat Records
2003

T.U.G.G.
“Smile”
Come Sunrise
Last Call Records
2010

Joey Ryan & The Inks
“The Incredible Mr. Flowers”
Dennis Lane
Independent
2011

Grey Matter Black
“German Depression”
Demonstration
Independent
2012

Baker London
“The Mannequin Factory”
No Horse, No Wife, No Mustache
Independent
2010

Matty Harris Quartet
“Primary Colors”
Live at the Clown Lounge
Independent
2010

Trent Romens
“R.I.P.” (feat. Johnny Becker)
Alive
Independent
2013

Theme Music:
Mike Munson
“Over Now”
Mike Munson
Independent
2013