The Mike Munson Trio’s upcoming release on Liatris Records is right around the corner! “Sometimes, not always.” will be available on vinyl, compact disc and streaming on May 22. If you haven’t pre-ordered your copy yet there is still time, shipping starts in less than two weeks. Pre-order "Sometimes, not always." here. The album release celebrations will be at Icehouse in Minneapolis with Dosh on May 22 (get tickets here) and at Peter’s Biergarten in Winona on May 23 (all ages show). The song “Sometimes Not Always” was featured on the MPR program “Minnesota Now” in early April and has been receiving radio play on a variety of stations across the state leading up to the release.
When I originally met with Liz Draper about releasing “Meno” on Liatris Records, one of her stated goals was to have more opportunities to play solo bass sets in addition to her vibrant career as a member of national and international touring acts. This month Liz has been on tour with Iris DeMent AND she has an upcoming solo set May 6 at Berlin in Minneapolis sharing the bill with Félicia Atkinson (get tickets here). It’s such a joy to see how hard work and intention can move us closer to our goals!
May 8-9 is Mid West Music Fest weekend in Winona, MN. I joined the festival board last year because of my deep appreciation for the 17 year old organization and my desire to see it continue to thrive. Rare are the times when the music community comes to my doorstep, but when they do I am always so proud to show off the best parts of my beloved small town to musicians and music lovers alike.
Next week I have the chance to speak to a group of high school students as they are inducted to the National Honors Society. In preparation I have been reflecting on how curiosity is one of the most critical components of growth, intelligence and change. Using curiosity as a motivating force consistently yields surprising outcomes and a deeper understanding of the world and one another. I hope the coming month provides you opportunities to ask questions, dig a little and wonder a lot.
~diane