State of Sound

Our guest for this episode, Ellie Jackson, joined us for 88Nine’s State of Sound concert lineup in November. The Milwaukee artist's songs deliver a determined vulnerability and emotional exploration through guitars, stories, amplification, and a careful balance of harmony and dissonance.88Nine music director Erin Wolf spoke with Jackson about “China Lights," her ode to a dissolved relationship in which she learns to read energy more deeply and slow down just a little, but doesn’t let the past freeze her from moving forward.

Dark Psychic is a two-piece dance-rock band from Milwaukee founded by Clark Rendall and Nathan Greene. Rendall’s drum tracks and bass loops bring to mind synth-pop and disco, while Greene’s guitar tones and melodies evoke new wave and post-punk.Recent influences include Kylie Minogue, Depeche Mode, Twin Peaks and, of course, ABBA. Their newest tracks shed the veil of pandemic pessimist grunge in favor of a lighter, brighter, more celebratory vibe.In this episode, 88Nine music director Erin Wolf speaks with Rendall about Dark Psychic’s capitalist gripe / working class anthem – and one of their most danceable songs yet – “No One Wants to Work Anymore."

Our guest, Milwaukee’s Rat Bath, joined us for 88Nine’s State of Sound concert showcase in November. This band of all transgender individuals reclaim queer-coded villains from their childhood as heroes in their storytelling. They describe their sound as "Post-Everything Rat Core" but have also been called Bubble Grunge, Alternative Emo, Dirt Americana and Melodic Hardcore. Whichever way you slice it, they are fast and loud and have a unique ability to seamlessly blend influences. 88Nine music director Erin Wolf talks with Fred Kenyon about “I Eat My Enemies,” Rat Bath’s poem-inspired song delving into imposter syndrome. 

Our guest, Alberto Kanost of Bear in the Forest, joined us for 88Nine’s State of Sound lineup in November. His songs howl with spiritualism built around folk music in the oldest, barest sense: joy and pain and a guitar coming together. In this episode, 88nine music director Erin Wolf speaks with Alberto about Bear In the Forest’s introspectively confident song, “Clear Clean Water.”

Our guest — Bobby Flowers of Hello, Face — joined us for 88Nine’s State of Sound lineup in October. Flowers and three of his fellow musicians formed the band after growing up in the Milwaukee music scene playing in beloved groups like Maritime, The Championship, Carolina and The Benjamins. Hello, Face has an emotional-yet-euphonious sound they suggest sounds best played loudly in a bar on repeat — a decadent blend of heavy guitar riffs, sweet melodic harmony and head-nodding beats.88Nine music director Erin Wolf spoke with Flowers about Hello, Face’s more intimate, sucker punch of a song, “No One Else.” Listen to their full conversation, as well as part of Hello, Face’s set from the State of Sound live show.

This week’s guest, Cozy Danger, joined us for 88Nine’s State of Sound lineup in October. Described as a “downbeat message in an upbeat package,” the Milwaukee band offers up jangly surf garage as a sugar-coated dose of introverted reality — a cheery, up-tempo performance punctuated by themes that expose scars with a sense of timid optimism.88Nine music director Erin Wolf talks with Cozy Danger drummer and co-lead vocalist Jake Brandt about “Lucid Dreams,” a track that explores taking control back from one’s subconscious. It’s the band’s second official single from their just-released album Orange Feels and something you’ll hear Thursday night at X-Ray Arcade, where Cozy Danger will support Bowvee, Well + Good and Creature Weather for a 7 p.m. show.

This week’s guest, Caley Conway, joined us for 88Nine’s State of Sound lineup in October. She’s a trailblazer of the Midwest music community and brings a keen examination of love, co-dependence, self and struggle to her songs. No sound or texture is off-limits, and synths, omnichords, horns, keys and guitars adorn every nuance.On this episode, Caley talks with 88Nine music director Erin Wolf about themes of familial ties and fated future glances on her song “Singing Never.”

This week’s guest, Sean Lehner of Fuzzysurf, joined us for 88Nine’s State of Sound lineup in October. Known for blending jangly guitars, bouncy keyboards and tight harmonies, Fuzzysurf’s songs are peppered with hooks and witty lyrics that explore themes of modern life, love and the occasional societal critique (all without taking anything too seriously).Lehner talked with 88Nine music director Erin Wolf about the inspiration behind Fuzzysurf’s song “Doghouse” — a wry look at that crazy little thing called love.

Imagine a musical fusion that transports you back to the neon-lit dance floors of the ’80s, where Italo Disco and HI-NRG (high energy) reigned supreme. Sonic time travel like that requires talent — two talents, actually.Bonnie Drinkard is the captivating vocalist from Detroit’s country-folk sensation Drinkard Sisters. Producer Martin Defatte (better known as Tron Jovi) is one-half of Milwaukee noise-rap duo Guerrilla Ghost. This unlikely pairing is the heart and soul of Diamond Life, a musical pact that bridges genres and blends influences as the past and future collide on the dance floor.On this episode of the State of Sound podcast, Bonnie and 88Nine music director Erin Wolf talk about Diamond Life’s bouncy, ’80s-infused “pep talk” jam “Matador” — a track about pattern recognition and positive changes, bolstered by an army of vocal layers and synths.

Video Sex Priest was formed by Liv Mueller and Bill Backes after they spent time playing together in iconic Milwaukee rock band The Lovelies in the ’90s and early 2000s. The two initially bonded over their mutual love of new wave, dark wave, post-punk and rock.On this episode, Mueller talks about their dark and impactful song “Salt,” which centers on the dualities that drive our lives and shatter perceived reality: sun vs. darkness, right vs. wrong and beyond.

Next Paperback Hero is the name of Nathan Honoré’s Milwaukee-based project as a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Throughout his songs, melodic baritone vocals deliver sincere, confessional lyrics with the intimate qualities of a singer-songwriter who creates a distinctly soulful, dynamic experience. This is one for fans of The National, Elliott Smith, boygenius and Bon Iver.In this episode, Nathan talks about the inspiration behind his hopeful, water-centric song called “Tip of My Toes,” which was inspired by a writing prompt and appears on 2024 release Waves. Use the player at the top of the page or your favorite podcast app to hear the conversation and a taste of Next Paperback Hero’s set from State of Sound’s September concert showcase.While you listen, snap up the buy-one-get-one ticket offer available right now for November’s State of Sound featuring Bear in the Forest, Rat Bath, Dark Psychic and Ellie Jackson.

Milwaukee's Pulpa de Guayaba is a six-piece, multi-instrumentalist, bilingual reggae soul band that draws from psychedelic cumbias and jazz. The band takes listeners on a journey across musical and cultural boundaries. Their name means “Guava Pulp," a nod to their diverse roots and influences, which blend to create new and exciting sounds.Our guest for this episode, vocalist and band leader Dominick Dear, is not only a singer-songwriter and performer. He's also an adventurer — a man chasing a dream fueled by passion and curiosity, using this thing he loves called music to help him navigate life. We chatted about the inspiration behind the band’s song, “Talk to Me,” which is all about manifesting magic before it’s even created.

State of Sound for August was such a fun, eclectic show representing the idea of what it means to highlight musicians from the great state of Wisconsin. Long Mama brought a tender, earnest energy to the stage and found time before that to sit down wtih 88Nine music director Erin Wolf for a chat about being alone on the road being perfectly imperfect and bridging crossings. After the live set, a cool conversation about the inspiration behind their song, "Poor Pretender."

Secret Menu is a genre-blending-bending alternative rock band known for their rich vocal harmonies, technical arrangements, and authentic story-driven lyrics. They came through our space in August and left a distinct trace. This is the show of Erin Wolf and the band put us in the know.

State of Sound for August was such a fun, eclectic show representing the idea of what it means to highlight musicians from the great state of Wisconsin. Waldemar brought great energy to the stage and found time before that to sit down wtih 88Nine music director Erin Wolf for a chat about the inspiration behind her song, "Summer Rain."

State of Sound for August was such a fun, eclectic show representing the idea of what it means to highlight musicians from the great state of Wisconsin. ANDII brought smooth calming energy to the stage and found time before that to sit down wtih 88Nine music director Erin Wolf for a chat about the inspiration behind her song, "Summer Rain."

During our Pride edition of the State of Sound live concert showcase, Milwaukee's own Lady SabO shared some of her relatable, unpredictable and enlightening songs with our audience. In addition, she spoke with Erin Wolf about the track "freespace" off of 2024 EP ibnsabo2.

Milwaukee hyperpop artist Cyrus Chrome creates ethereal sounds to blissfully dance to, but their music goes deeper than something that merely gets you moving. It often centers around facing fears, growth and the healing process — all of which lends feelings of catharsis and peace. On this episode, guest host Carolann Grzybowski talked with Cyrus about the inspiration behind their song “Shoyu.”Also, tickets are on sale right now for our next State of Sound live show coming up Aug. 3. This always-packed night of music extends all the way to the western reaches of Wisconsin and headliner Waldemar, who will bring their heartland indie rock from Eau Claire to Milwaukee. You’ll also get sets from ANDII, Long Mama and Secret Menu, plus drinks from Discourse. Grab your tickets now, and we’ll see you there!

Ashley Altadonna is the lead singer, guitarist and songwriter for Milwaukee’s jangle pop-rock band, Vacancy Chain. Originally from Houston, Altadonna moved in 2000 to attend UW-Milwaukee's Film School. She was also the singer/songwriter for Milwaukee bands New Blind Nationals and The Glacial Speed. Currently, Altadonna is a freelance videographer/illustrator, sexual health and wellness educator at the Tool Shed Erotic Boutique, trans advocate and mom. She chatted with 88Nine music director Erin Wolf about the inspiration behind Vacancy Chain’s song, “Loblolly.”

State of Sound for May was such a fun eclectic show. Jacob Slade brought his vibe and his musical prowess to the stage. 88Nine Music Director Erin Wolf caught up with Jacob before his live performance at the Radio Milwaukee studios to talk about the song, "However You May"

State of Sound for May was such a fun eclectic show. Klan414 are a Regional Mexican group based out of Milwaukee, WI. 88Nine Music Director Erin Wolf caught up with them before their live performance at the Radio Milwaukee studios to talk about the song, "Tu Relato." 

State of Sound for May was such a fun eclectic show. Blacktop is an indie surf folk project based out of Milwaukee, WI and our Music Director Erin Wolf caught up with them before their set to talk about the song, "Expectations." 

Since 2020, Micah Emrich has pioneered his signature sound, aptly named “Alternative Everything.” A versatile singer-songwriter and producer, he channels raw emotion into each composition, crafting melodies and hooks that linger in the soul long after the music fades. Emrich and 88Nine music director Erin Wolf sat down to go into deep details about his song, “maybe hell is a better place?” — a track inspired by waves of emotions, along with states and planes of existence.

88Nine music director Erin Wolf recently sat down with Midwest singer-songwriter and indie artist Allison Mahal to chat about the inspiration behind the song "Freaky.” You'll also hear a selection of live-recorded tracks from  Mahal’s performance at April's State of Sound concert showcase.Want to be there for our next live show? Visit the event page to save a few bucks by picking up tickets in advance.

88Nine music director Erin Wolf recently sat with Jinksie band leader Wendy Norton to chat about the inspiration behind the song "Freudian Slit," an unreleased track from the group. You'll also hear a selection of live-recorded tracks from Jinksie's performance at April's State of Sound concert showcase.Want to be there for our next live show? Visit the event page to save a few bucks by picking up tickets in advance.

88Nine music director Erin Wolf recently spoke with the talented singer-songwriter and vocal coach Hanna Simone. They chatted about the inspiration behind "Spaceship," from the project of the same name that released in 2022. You'll also hear a selection of live-recorded tracks from Hanna Simone's performance at April's State of Sound concert showcase.Want to be there for our next live show? Visit the event page to save a few bucks by picking up tickets in advance.

88Nine music director Erin Wolf recently spoke with lead guitarist and vocalist Phil Bregant of Wire & Nail, the young honky-tonk rockers creating a musical pathway in the scene here in Wisconsin. They chatted about the inspiration behind the band's new single, "Devil in Angel Wings." You'll also hear a selection of live-recorded tracks from Wire & Nail's performance at April's State of Sound concert showcase.Want to be there for our next live show? Visit the event page to save a few bucks by picking up tickets in advance.

"Adorner is the new psychedelic pop-rock force, with a personal mission to adorn their creation 'for the sake of beauty alone.'"Based out of Milwaukee, the group is the brainchild of songwriter Madeline Stadel, who imbues their songs with powerful, evocative lyrics and vocals. Combined with the complex rhythms from drummer Kay Speidel, the Adorner brings to life celestial song structures and instrumentation on a psych-inspired rock canvas. 88Nine music director Erin Wolf sat down with Madeline for the podcast to chat about the band's recently released song, "Nimwe."

88Nine music director Erin Wolf recently spoke with Shontrail, the young indie rocker from the South Side of Milwaukee, to discuss the inspiration behind his popular single "Drive Slow." You'll also hear a selection of live-recorded tracks from Shontrail's performance at March's State of Sound concert showcase.Want to be there for our next live show? Visit the event page to save a few bucks by picking up tickets in advance.

88Nine music director Erin Wolf recently spoke with the namesake behind Lauryl Sulfate & Her Ladies of Leisure to discuss the inspiration behind the song "Girls Cry All The Time" from their latest album, The Afterparty . You'll also hear a selection of live-recorded tracks from their performance at March's State of Sound concert showcase.Want to be there for our next live show? Visit the event page to save a few bucks by picking up tickets in advance.

88Nine music director Erin Wolf recently spoke with Justin Otto of the indie band The Hatchets. Otto discussed the inspiration behind their song, "When the Ghost Throws off His Chains," from The Hatchets' latest album entitled, Every New Beginning Comes from Some Other Beginning's End. Additionally, listeners have the opportunity to enjoy a selection of live-recorded tracks from their performance at March's State of Sound concert showcase.Want to be there for our next live show? Visit the event page to save a few bucks by picking up tickets in advance.

88Nine's music director Erin Wolf recently engaged in a compelling conversation with one of the hardest-working Milwaukee Rappers, Wave Chapelle. They dove into the details of one of Wave's favorite songs produced by Menebeats, "Can't Stop Won't Stop." Additionally, listeners have the opportunity to enjoy a selection of live-recorded tracks from their captivating performance at the Radio Milwaukee studio space. Next week we talk to The Hatchets.

88Nine's music director Erin Wolf recently engaged in a compelling conversation with Charlee Grider of Scam Likely, delving into the details of their latest single, "Nosebleed." Additionally, listeners have the opportunity to enjoy a selection of live-recorded tracks from their captivating performance at the Radio Milwaukee studio space. Next week we talk to Milwaukee's own Wave Chapelle

In this edition of the State of Sound podcast, 88Nine music director Erin Wolf spoke with Sleepy Gaucho about a song from their new project called, "True Love Corridor". You'll hear a few new songs from the album and a breakdown of his song "Deep Blue." 

In this edition of the State of Sound podcast, 88Nine music director Erin Wolf speaks with Dak Dubois. You'll hear fresh snippets from his awesome live studio performance and an in-depth discussion into how much fun he had making and collaborating with Emmit James and *aya on the track, "townie."State of Sound Podcast on Spotify or Itunes

In this edition of the State of Sound podcast, 88Nine music director Erin Wolf welcomes Parker Schulz of Social Cig. You'll hear fresh snippets from their awesome live studio performance and their discussion delving into the nuances of their track, "Cats & Dogs"

In this edition of the State of Sound podcast, 88Nine music director Erin Wolf welcomes *aya, a very talented Palestinian-American R&B, pop and soul singer from Milwaukee. You'll hear fresh snippets from their awesome live studio performance and their discussion delving into the nuances of their track, "everything is under control."

In this week's edition of the State of Sound podcast, 88Nine music director Erin Wolf welcomes El Sebas, one-half of the dynamic Latin hip-hop duo Browns Crew. You'll hear fresh snippets from his electrifying live studio performance and their discussion delving into the nuances of the title track from his EP, Chavo De Abajo

In this week's episode of the State of Sound podcast, 88Nine Music Director Erin Wolf converses with Jasmine, lead singer from the emo-adjacent, rock-melancholia band Bug Moment. You'll hear snippets of their live studio performance and engage in a conversation about the song "Teeth" from the band's latest project, The Flying Toad Circus.