In the first half of the episode, we talk with Eli Smith of the Down HillStrugglers about their recent release “Old Juniper,” traditional songs versus“covers,” and taking traditional songs and putting new words to them. We visitabout what “Old Time” music is and how Eli and the band got involved with it asfolks who grew up in New York. We also talk about what the term “Americana” means to him.

The Down Hill Strugglers are:Walker Shepard - fiddle, banjo, guitar, harmonica, voiceJackson Lynch - fiddle, banjo, guitar, voiceEli Smith - banjo, guitar, mandolin, harmonica, Jews harp, pump organ, voice

The band was co-founded by John Cohen (1932-2019)

Then we talk with Vanessa Collier about her latest release “Do it My Own Way,” and its unintentional women-centric focus. We visit with her about herdecision to become a fulltime musician (over playing basketball or cooking!) We also got to hear more about her special song “Warrior” written for her mom.

Check them out here:

Down Hill Strugglers & Eli:

• Website: downhillstrugglers.com
• Facebook: The Down Hill Strugglers
• Instagram: downhillstrugglers
• Eli—eli_smith_etc

Vanessa Collier:

• Website: Vannessacolliermusic.com
• Instagram: V_ness_sax
• Facebook: Vanessa Collier
• Youtube: Vannessacollier33

This episode we talk with the ethereal Bailey Bigger about her new album "Resurrection Fern" and how she has grown and changed since her last album was released.

Resurrection Fern explores vulnerability, nature, and growth, all delivered through Bigger’s distinctive lens. Known for her enchanting melodies and impeccable lyricism, Bigger dives deep into themes of renewal, fragility, and the resilience found in the human spirit. Each track feels like a conversation with an old friend, guiding listeners through moments of self-discovery and connection. As a storyteller, she paints pictures that are as vivid as they are introspective, drawing on personal experiences and weaving them into universal truths. Her poetic approach to music, combined with a rich vocal presence, marks her as one of the most exciting new voices in today’s music landscape.

With this release, Bigger continues to prove why she’s being hailed as a fresh voice for her generation. Her ability to channel complex emotions into beautifully simple yet profound songs sets her apart, and Resurrection Fern is a testament to her growth as an artist and storyteller.

The 24 year old singer/songwriter/instrumentalist has collected back to back nominations at the Arkansas Country Music Awards, been named Songwriter of the Year in Memphis, won Audience-Favorite music video at Indie Film Fest, and has had multiple songs featured on TrueSouth on SEC Television. Bigger has traveled the country over the last four years, enchanting audiences with her siren song and classic American songwriting. She has shared stages and festival lineups with Sierra Ferrell, The Local Honeys, The Avett Brothers, and toured alongside Joe Purdy and Trampled by Turtles. Bailey’s voice has graced the stages of Red Rocks Amphitheater, The Bluebird Cafe, Georgia Theater, and many festivals including FloydFest, Americanafest, and Memphis in May.

Much inspired by her own Celtic heritage, folklore of the world surrounding her, and connection to the natural world, Bailey’s new record, “Resurrection Fern,” (releasing October 25th) takes the listener on a journey through the four seasons, and the cycles of death that we, and the earth, face every year. Leaning into the mystery and lore of the unknown, human emotions, and the wild nature within all of us, “Resurrection Fern,” captures the magic that Bailey found within her years of tuning in deeper with the natural cycles, and the primal knowledge within.

Check her out here:

• Website: Baileybigger.com
• Facebook: Bailey Bigger Music
• Instagram: Bailey Bigger
• TikTok: @coyotecreature

We talk with Grayson about his album “Heartbreak, Misery, and Death” out TODAY 10/25/26 (timely, as he dedicates it to his father, who's birthday is 10/26/24). Grayson has been playing these songs his whole life and pays homage to them on this deep and dark album. He talks with us about simplicity and being honest, with the reminder that some of the greatestsongs in the world are only 2 minutes long, but feel like a novel.

Then we visit with Jess about her new project, written and recorded in her home with other women artists in a 5-day period. This album is forthcoming, but Jess noted that she needed to go to a solitary place to write these personal, touching songs. As a very in-demand co-writer it was a great conversation picking Jess’s brain.

Check them out here:

Grayson Capps:

• Website: graysoncapps.com
• Facebook: graysoncapps
• IG: @graysoncapps
• Tik Tok: graysoncapps_official

Jess Nolan:

• Website: jessnolanmusic.com
• Facebook: Jess Nolan
• IG: Iamjessnolan
• YouTube: Iamjessnolan