Newport Folk 2013: Berklee Gospel Choir

Worried that you'll miss church on Sunday, because you want to secure your blanket space at Fort Adams?  No worries!  The Berklee Gospel Choir brings a little church to Sunday morning, when they kick off the day at Newport Folk on the main stage.

The Berklee Gospel Choir comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear The Berklee Gospel Choir and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!



Hear rehearsal on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Wheeler Brothers

The Wheeler Brothers actually ARE brothers (unlike, say The Righteous Brothers), which may just account for the close interplay with the rowdy pull, that is the hallmark of so many siblings.  This Austin, TX based group has roots and grit and a rousing nature that will make them quite welcome on their first visit to Newport.

The Wheeler Brothers comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear The Wheeler Brothers and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "My Time" on Youtube.


Hear more about the band on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Rayland Baxter

To get to Nashville, sometimes you have to leave Nashville.

RayLand Baxter grew up there, the son of a successful musician.  But becoming a musician himself wasn't necessarily top of mind.  He traveled, he "hopped a few ships," he spent time in Europe and Israel.  And somewhere along the line, songs and songwriting started to take shape in his life.  Now Baxter is back in Nashville, and he's wound up right where you might have expected him to be at the start, naturally.

Rayland Baxter comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Rayland Baxter and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Olivia" on Youtube.


Hear a set on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Houndmouth

The group that started out as a folk duo didn't wait for Newport (like Dylan) to go electric.  Houndmouth has folk at its core, but the Kentucky-based band is a rocking outfit.

Houndmouth comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Houndmouth and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "On The Road" on Youtube.


Hear "Houston Train" on Youtube.


Hear an interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Hurray For The Riff Raff

"Even though I'm a Puerto Rican girl from the Bronx, I still love old time folk music," says Alynda Lee Segarra (and in the video, she's in New Orleans Day Of The Dead dress!)

Her clear-as-a-bell voice can be old-timey as easily as it can feel modern and immediate, and the band moves with ease between string band, 60s girl groups and garage-y enthusiasm.

Hurray For The Riff Raff comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Hurray For The Riff Raff and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear a full set on Youtube.


Hear an interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Cold Specks

Mining some of the same dark territory as PJ Harvey does in her quieter moments, comes Canadian Cold Specks.  The rasp in her voice opens the door of the simplicity of her songs and playing, to reveal a deeper soul.

Cold Specks comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Cold Specks and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear Cold Specks on Youtube.


Hear an interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Spirit Family Reunion

The time-honored tradition of busking is an integral part of Folk music, and Spirit Family Reunion can make a stage performance feel as live and lively as if you happened upon them on a street corner or a subway station.  Feel free to stomp and clap along.

Spirit Family Reunion comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Spirit Family Reunion and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!



Hear "Skillit Good N Greasy" on Youtube.


Hear "100 Greenback Dollar Bills" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Sarah Jarosz

There just aren't that many artists who can say at age 22, they're returning to Newport Folk.  But the incredibly talented Sarah Jarosz has been winning over folks with her clear voice and her mastery of stringed instruments.  And the folks she's impressed are impressive themselves.  Already she's worked with the likes of Chris Thile, Darrell Scott, Stuart Duncan, and Jerry Douglas.

Barbara Dacey talked to Sarah last time she was at the Festival, and her set is in the archives.

Sarah Jaroszcomes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Sarah Jarosz and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Song Up In Her Head" on Youtube.


Hear "Ring Them Bells" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: The Lone Bellow

We're all over The Lone Bellow, adding new songs into rotation, and playing their debut as the mvyradio Album Of The Week.  They're one of the must-see acts of the weekend . . .


The Lone Bellow comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear The Lone Bellow and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "You Never Need Nobody" on Youtube.


Hear "Two Sides Of Lonely" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Elizabeth Mitchell

Newport Folk has been expanding, incrementally each of the last several years, adding stages and days and performances.  To make sure that the genre is something shared with the next generation, NFF has included a kids' tent.

Elizabeth Mitchell And You Are My Flower are representing for the families this year.  Join them for multiple short sets throughout the weekend.


Elizabeth Mitchell comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Elizabeth Mitchell And You Are My Flower and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!



Hear "Little Bird, Little Bird" on Youtube.


Hear "Blue Clouds" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Bombino

Who is Bombino?  His story is pretty fascinating.  Watch the short video below, to see how far he's come to share his music on a Newport Folk stage.

Bombino comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Bombino and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Learn "Who is Bombino" on Youtube.


Hear Bombino on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Langhorne Slim

The folks who book Newport Folk have taken great care in these last few years, to book acts that are known to collaborate.  Note below that Langhorne Slim has worked with The Lumineers before.

Who else will join forces?  We can't wait to find out.

In the meantime, check out Langhorne Slim's performance from a couple of years back, in the mvyradio Archives.

Langhorne Slim comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Langhorne Slim and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "The Way We Move" on Youtube.


Hear Langhorne Slim and The Lumineers on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Black Prairie

When your main band goes on indefinite hiatus, it allows your side project to step out of the background.

Black Prairie features a number of members of The Decemberists (including Jon Moen), with their compass pointed in more of a bluegrass direction.  And taking the lead vocals is Annalisa Tornfelt of the Alaska-based band Bearfoot (hear them at Merlefest 2008).

In what should be a nice, small moment, fans should warmly greet the arrival of band member Jenny Conlee, who missed The Decemberists' 2011 performance while successfully receiving treatment for cancer.

Black Prairie comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Black Prairie and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "How Do You Ruin Me" on Youtube.


Hear "Nowhere Massachusetts" on Youtube.


Hear "Song The Remains The Same" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: The Last Bison

This isn't your father's Newport Folk band.  Oh wait, maybe it is.

The Last Bison is a bit of a family affair, and yes, lead singer Ben Hardesty's Dad IS in the band, along with other members of his family, and there are non-Hardesty band members who are related to each other.  (See the interview below for a band-member-run-down)

With the magnetic "Switzerland" as their calling card, the Chesapeake, Virginia band is going places.  Including Fort Adams.

The Last Bison comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear The Last Bison and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Switzerland" on Youtube.


Hear an interview on Youtube.


mountaintop chamber music

Newport Folk 2013: Frank Turner

We've written quite a bit about Frank Turner recently, since we aired "Tape Deck Heart" as our Album Of The Week.  So let's just say we're psyched to see him . . .

Frank Turner comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Frank Turner and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "The Way I Tend To Be" on Youtube.


Hear a full performance on Youtube.


See a short documentary on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Justin Townes Earle

Based on the last visit to Newport Folk for Justin Townes Earle . . . get to his set early.

When JTE performed in 2011, the Quad Stage tent was packed, long before his set began.  And when the music started, the crowd knew every word.

With his continued success, including  excellent release "Nothing's Gonna Change The Way You Feel About Me Now" expect Earle's profile to be raised even further.

Justin Townes Earle comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Justin Townes Earle and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear a full performance on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Shovels And Rope

Dylan and Baez may be one of Newport Folk's might be the prototype of the Festival's male/female duos, but that dynamic is only a starting place for Shovels And Rope.

Beyond chemistry, their storytelling, charisma and spontaneous feel make then a side stage band not to be missed.

Shovels And Rope come to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Shovels And Rope and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "O Be Joyful" on Youtube.


Hear an interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Milk Carton Kids

One of the great things about Newport Folk, is that even though it's a massive festival, there is still a space for the performers with a light, delicate touch.

Milk Carton Kids refer to themselves as "minimalist," but that seems to only consider their volume and band size.  The thoughtful instrumentation and interplay might be understated, but it's not underdeveloped.

Milk Carton Kids come to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Milk Carton Kids and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear a short set on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Jim James

He is perhaps the man who best defines the modern sensibility of Newport Folk.

Jim James can hold a full crowd with a simple acoustic guitar and his voice and words.  But he is restlessly creative, and endlessly collaborative.  In recent years, you've found him on stage with his bands My Morning Jacket and New Multitudes, and joining in with Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Low Anthem, Alabama Shakes and many, many others.

He serves on the Board of the Festival, and just watching him walk though the courtyard of Fort Adams, you can see he embodies the Festival's spirit.

Jim James comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Jim James and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "State Of The Art" on Youtube.


Hear an interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Beth Orton

She's been making her singular style of music for so long, you'd be forgiving for forgetting that Beth Orton has been making music that was once considered "Folk" and not just making music that was of a genre called "Beth Orton."

Early on, she paired Folk with Electronic atmosphere, but her recent work put the small "e" on "electronic" and the Big "A" on "Atmosphere."

Beth Orton comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Beth Orton and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Stolen Car" on Youtube.


Hear "Call Me The Breeze" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Kingsley Flood

Boston (and D.C.)-based Kingsley Flood is counting down the days until the Folk Festival on their website.

And why shouldn't they be excited?  The two-time Boston Music Award winning band scored a Main Stage set for their first trip to Newport Folk.  Get there early, as they kick off the whole dern Festival!

Kingsley Flood comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Kingsley Flood and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Sun Gonna Lemme Shine" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Colin Meloy

Last time he was in town, he was leading the Decemberists through Main Stage sing-a-longs and sorting through an out-of-order set list of songs from their concept album "Hazards Of Love."

This time, Colin Meloy is solo on the Quad stage.  You can get a taste of what that might sound like, below.

Colin Meloy comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Colin Meloy/The Decemberists and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear the interview on Youtube.


Hear "The Crane Wife 1, 2 & 3" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Michael Hurley

Michael Hurley is a man who's influence stretches far beyond his fame.

Championed early on by Jesse Colin Young, and embraced by Lucinda Williams, Son Volt, Calexico and Cat Power, Hurley's "First Songs" are important Folk beginnings, and his modern performances are closely watched by his followers.  In fact, note that Hurley is from Portland, OR, and there are a few bands from that scene on the bill, who you just might catch checking him out.

Michael Hurley comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Michael Hurley and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Blue Mountain" on Youtube.


Hear "The Slurf Song" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Beck

Which "Beck" will be at Newport Folk?

Will it be the thoughtful, sometimes mournful sounding singer songwriter of "Lost Cause"?

Will it be the charismatic funk/pastiche juggernaut of "Sexxlaws"?

Is the new single "I Won't Be Long" an indication?

Can it be all of them?!

Beck comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Beck and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Lost Cause" on Youtube.


Hear "Sexxlaws" on Youtube.


Hear "I Won't Be Long" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Tift Merritt

Ask anyone on the mvy staff who's met her:  Tift Merritt is delightful.

Funny and charming and such a great songwriter, any day Tift is on the bill, is a good day.

You can hear some of our previous visits with her in the mvyradio Archives, including the Americana Music Conference, Merlefest, The Narrows and Newport Folk 2009.

Tift Merritt comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Tift Merritt and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Engine To Turn" on Youtube.


Hear "Mixtape" on Youtube.


Hear Tift at the Opry on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: The Felice Brothers

The Felice Brothers are already part of Newport FolkLore.

In 2008, the power went out in Newport, but that didn't stop the band.  They played a raucous, joyful, memorable set, completely unplugged.

What will happen this year?  We can't wait to find out.

The Felice Brothers come to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear The Felice Brothers and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "This Land Is Your Land" on Youtube.


Hear more on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Andrew Bird

Andrew Bird returns to Newport Folk, as one of those artists who well represent the Festival's past, present and future.

Bird is well-versed in the stringed instruments that are the backbone of the original Folk Music scene, and he can evoke an old-time vibe with ease.  But his modern sensibilities, including use of looping tracks, and modern, abstract approaches land him firmly in the camp of those who push the envelope of Newport Folk's sound.  And his adventurousness virtually guarantees his future placement among those who belong at the Festival.

Plus, we love that he can even be a Muppet!

Andrew Bird comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Andrew Bird and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear the interview on Youtube.


Hear "Fitz And The Dizzyspells" on Youtube.

Hear Andrew Bird as a Muppet on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Bonnie "Prince" Billy & Dawn McCarthy

Eschewing hits for the discovering of under-appreciated gems seems like a recipe made for a Newport Folk showing.

Bonnie "Prince" Billy and Dawn McCarthy released "What The Brothers Sang," collecting a number of lesser-known Everly Brothers songs, and re-investing in the tunes.  These are outstanding tunes, unearthed and brought to life once more, with an attention, but not an over-emphasis on the vocal interplay.

Bonnie "Prince" Billy and Dawn McCarthy come to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Blake Mills and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Omaha" on Youtube.


Hear a full set on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers

It takes a lot for an unsigned band to get noticed by CBS News.  But Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers have garnered a heckuva lot of viral attention, sparking the interest of the world at large.

Check out a few clips from their "Van Sessions."  They have dozens of these performances, shot while driving from gig to gig.

Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers will be pulling in to Fort Adams and Newport Folk, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Nicki Bluhm and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" on Youtube.


Hear "Days Like This" on Youtube.


Hear "I Can't Go For That" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: The Lumineers

The rise of The Lumineers has been pretty spectacular.  They've gone from unknown to Grammy contenders in just a calendar year's time.  Hear them talk about about the Grammy excitement below.

They're making their first Newport Folk appearance.  Expect the crowd to respond to their dynamic show.

The Lumineers come to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear The Lumineers and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Ho Hey" on Youtube.


Hear an interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Michael Kiwanuka

It's hard to believe this Brit of Ugandan descent did not record his songs 40 years ago.  The classic, warm soulfulness suggests another era altogether, of production and of priorities.  His voice fills the room, fills your speakers and we look forward to it filling the grounds of Fort Adams.

Michael Kiwanuka comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Michael Kiwanuka and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


See the set on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Iris Dement

She's a songwriter par excellence, with one of the most distinctive voices you're likely to hear.  And even if her tone didn't cut through the static, her lyrics are as sharp as a scalpel and equally as precise.  She minces no words in service of her messages, be they about justice or ignorance or spirituality.

Iris Dement comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Dement and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear the song on Youtube.


Hear "The Wasteland Of The Free" on Youtube.


Hear "Sing The Delta" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Jason Isbell

Jason Isbell has been part of a beloved rock band (Drive By Truckers), is married to a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter (Amanda Shires), was the winner of last year's Americana Music Award for Song Of The Year ("Alabama Pines"), appeared on other great albums (Kim Richey's "Thorn In The Heart") and has recently gotten sober.

The foundation of his past is what seems to have uplifted his new record "Southeastern," which is receiving great acclaim.  Look for the thoughtful singer-songwriter to turn more heads in Newport

Jason Isbell comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Jason Isbell and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!



Hear "Alabama Pines" on Youtube.


Hear the interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Hey Marseilles

The Hey Marseilles set should be quite a show, with at least 7 band member crowded on stage among even more instruments.  Expect something dynamic.

Hey Marseilles comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Hey Marseilles and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear "Heartbeats" on Youtube.


Hear "Bright Stars Burning" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Lord Huron

Bridging a gap between indie folk and full-on sound-sculpture, comes Lord Huron.

And while you're trying to put your finger on the atmosphere, don't be surprised if you find yourself humming along to the deceptively catchy, tuneful current that runs though the album.

Lord Huron comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Lord Huron and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!



Hear "Time To Run" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: The Avett Brothers

The Avett Brothers are no stranger to Newport Folk, having played the Main Stage, side stage and even on top of a crane!

We have tons of great Avett Brothers performances in our archives from Newport Folk and from Merlefest.  And we're looking forward to hearing more at Fort Adams.

The Avett Brothers come to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage. Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th. And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear The Avett Brothers and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!



Hear the set on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Ramblin Jack Elliott

While Newport Folk has never remained static, and is always searching out new artists, they are also committed to keeping a link to their history.  Every year, you can expect a great set from one of the fore-bearers of the Folk genre.

You can call Ramblin Jack Elliott a legendary performer.  But even the folks you call legendary, don't necessarily have the tales of legend integral to music history, like Elliott does.

Listen below to hear him talk about how a chance encounter with a young student named Mick Jagger, redirected the boy's path away from school and to Rock.

Ramblin Jack Elliott comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Blake Mills and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


See the interview on Youtube.


Hear "Don't Think Twice" on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Blake Mills

While his old bandmates in the band formerly knows as Simon Dawes (now just "Dawes") are playing across town, instead of at Fort Adams this year, Blake Mills will make his Newport debut.

Mills was an early member of the band, but left to pursue a solo career, as well as produce records for others.  He can tell you a little more about what he's been up to in the interview below.

Blake Mills comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Hear Blake Mills and the other artists scheduled to appear at this year's festival, on our Newport Folk Channel, which you can stream for free!


Hear the song on Youtube.


See the interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: JD McPherson

We're crazy 'bout this OK boy . . .

JD McPherson seemed to come out of nowhere.  Or more accurately, seemed to come out of a time machine.  mvyradio listeners couldn't believe that his music was a new release and not some vintage recording.

And the analog doesn't lie.  McPherson's raw talent and classic sounding voice cut right through.  Just check out the live, acoustic take of "North Side Gal" below.

JD McPherson comes all the way from Tulsa, OK, to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

And you can hear more Newport Folk 2013 artists on the mvyradio Newport Folk channel.


Hear the song on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Father John Misty

"Just look deeply into my eyes when we speak, and I am fine . . ."

It doesn't matter if you call him J. Tillman, Josh, John or even Chris, according to the man now best known as Father John Misty.

Has there been a drummer (other than perhaps Dave Grohl) who has emerged from behind the kit to possess such magnetic personality, fantastic showmanship and cult-ready music?

Check out the videos below.  The first may make you fall in love with the man.  The second will make you want to party with him.  And the third one may just blow your mind for sheer, unhinged hilariousness.

Father John Misty comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.


Hear "Only Son Of The Ladies Man" on Youtube.


Hear "I'm Writing A Novel" on Youtube.



Hear the hilarious interview on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Trombone Shorty

New Orleans has been well represented in recent years at Newport Folk, with appearances from Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

This year, the torch-carriers are Trombone Shorty And Orleans Avenue, who'll add a heavy dose of funk, horns and showmanship to the Folk Festival.

Trombone Shorty comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.


Hear "Backatown" on Youtube.


Hear "Do To Me" on Youtube.


Hear a full Trombone Shorty concert on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: John McCauley

Rhode Island's beloved Deer Tick has been a part of Newport Folk in one manner or another for the last several years.  The band has played a full, raucous set.  The side project Middle Brother had a side stage gig a few years ago (Hear it here).  And Deer Tick has been the house band at The Newport Blues Cafe, hosting a post-Festival throwdown in town.  (Find a non-NFF-weekend show from 2009, in our archives)

This year, Deer Tick's lead sing John McCauley will do a solo set on site.

John McCauley comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.

Newport Folk 2013: Amanda Palmer

Of all the artists appearing at Newport Folk, the one who is likely to engender the strongest opinion amongst your concert-going friends, is Amanda Palmer.  Some people idolize her, some people have vilified her, and many, many folks have done both without really listening to her.

We're looking forward to seeing and hearing her for the first time.

And even if you're not a fan, watch her TED Talk below, for a well-illustrated, valuable lesson.

Amanda Palmer comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.


See the video on Youtube.


Hear her TED Talk on Youtube.

Monday Free CD: Steve Earle

Steve Earle made "The Low Highway" with "the best band I've ever had."  And yes, it's a pretty great sounding record, with a lot to say about America.

Listen in to win it as our Monday Free CD.


See the interview on Youtube.

New on mvyradio: Patty Griffin

The first single off Patty Griffin's latest record, ends with her saying:

Meet me 'neath the moon
Under the singing tree
If you are the first stay there
And wait for me
If no one comes by morning and the
Sun is rising red
If no comes by morning please
Forgive me my friend
For I am dead

So when her second single is titled "Don't Let Me Die In Florida," you might not be mistaken thinking that she's got some heavy stuff on her mind.  On the other hand, this new song is not without its humor . . .

And to see what else is brand new on the station, visit the playlist page.  Look to the right for what's been added this week, and scroll to the bottom for songs in current rotation.

Buy it on Amazon and support Friends of mvyradio


Hear the song on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Phosphorescent

"My life, to be honest, sort of fell apart. And in the process of getting it back together, these songs came. I couldn't ignore them." 

That's how Matthew Houck of Phosphorescent describes the songs on the album "Muchacho."  Time Magazine describes "Song For Zula" one of the best songs of 2013 so far.  You can hear it below and judge for yourself.

Phosphorescent comes to Newport Folk 2013, and mvyradio will be there again, participating in NPR Music's coverage.  Hear performances live from the stage on mvyradio, July 26th through 28th.  And watch this space for more NFF artist previews.


Hear the song on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: The Mountain Goats

Long-time cult favorites, The Mountain Goats have had a great year, with their most successful single to date, in the song "Cry For Judas."  We're looking forward to catching them live at Newport Folk 2013.

We're previewing some of the artists scheduled to appear at this year's Newport Folk.  Watch this space every day.  And listen in as mvyradio once again participates in NPR Music's coverage from Fort Adams!


Hear the song on Youtube.

New on mvyradio: The Lone Bellow

The Lone Bellow had a huge breakthrough with their debut single, "You Never Need Nobody."

Check out their follow-up called "Bleeding Out," and be listening for them as part of Newport Folk 2013.

Buy it on Amazon and support Friends of mvyradio

And to see what else is brand new on the station, visit the playlist page.  Look to the right for what's been added this week, and scroll to the bottom for songs in current rotation.


Hear the song on Youtube.

New on mvyradio: Jack Johnson

How does it do it, over and over again.  Jack Johnson rarely changes the formula, but keep producing loveable, fresh takes on the breezy, thoughtful vibe that stretches back to his earliest recordings.  His latest is called "I Got You."

And to see what else is brand new on the station, visit the playlist page. Look to the right for what's been added this week, and scroll to the bottom for songs in current rotation.

Buy it on Amazon and support Friends of mvyradio


Hear the song on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Old Crowe Medicine Show

We're previewing some of the exciting acts coming to Newport Folk 2013.

Old Crowe Medicine show was at Newport Folk 2005 (hear some clips from that set) and they're returning for a Friday set this year.

In a few short years, their song "Wagon Wheel" has practically become an Americana standard.  We're looking forward to their ace playing and true-roots sound hitting Fort Adams, once again.


Hear the song on Youtube.

New on mvyradio: Bobby McFerrin

It's always nice to throw something jazzy into our rotation.  And the blend of Bobby McFerrin, with Esparanza Spaulding feels like a great flavor in our mix.

McFerrin's new record "Spirityouall" has a number of great, very accessible tracks to fill your soul.

Buy it on Amazon and support Friends of mvyradio 

And to see what else is brand new on the station, visit the playlist page.  Look to the right for what's been added this week, and scroll to the bottom for songs in current rotation.


Hear the song on Youtube.

Newport Folk 2013: Feist

We're very exited to once again be part of Newport Folk.

Over the course of the coming month, be watching this space, daily, for a look at some of the many great artists who'll be at the Festival.

And on July 26th through the 28th, being listening to mvyradio as we participate in NPR Music's coverage of Newport Folk 2013.


Newport Folk has had Friday night events for many years, but 2013 is the first time that they are having a full slate of sets, on 3 stages, at Fort Adams all Friday long.

Tickets are still available for Friday (Saturday and Sunday are sold out), and the line-up is pretty impressive.

Worth the price of admission alone, is the chance to see Feist.

Check out some of the videos below, to get a taste of how joyous her live performance can be, and see the trailer for her documentary.


Hear the song on Youtube.


Hear 1234 on Youtube.



See the trailer on Youtube.

New on mvyradio: John Mayer

Bad news:  You're kept off the road and away from touring for health reasons.

Good news:  You get right back in the studio and follow up your best album by using the same producer and West Coast vibe.

John Mayer's "Paradise Valley" won't be out until the fall, but here's the new single.

And to see what else is brand new on the station, visit the playlist page. Look to the right for what's been added this week, and scroll to the bottom for songs in current rotation.

Buy it on Amazon and support Friends of mvyradio


Hear the song on Youtube.