Cold Country
“Cold Country is the ever-immersing brainchild of songwriter and audio engineer Sean McConnell. Born and raised in Phoenix, AZ, McConnell ended his would-be college career in the late-aughts to pursue music, primarily as a recording studio engineer. After booking a one-way ticket to Chicago, he quickly settled in, calling the mid-west home. McConnell soon began writing songs of his own, assembling a rotating line-up of friends and local Chicago musicians, calling the project Cold Country, after a term his Minnesota-born father used to refer to the mid-west. The songs range from dreamy to anthemic, creating an orchestral folk music that often wanders into the psychedelic. He has since self-released three EP’s, a full length, a handful of bedroom recorded tapes, and completed several DIY tours around the country. 2013’s “Missing the Muse” garnered excellent reviews from local and regional blogs, as did 2015’s “Fall EP.”
The Paisley Fields
The Paisley Fields are a Brooklyn based alt-country band, unapologetic about pushing boundaries and seeking inspiration in the unexpected. Though lead singer James Wilson is inspired by country musicians like Dolly Parton and Gram Parsons, he wanted The Paisley Fields lyrics to reflect a modern world. Pittsburgh City Paper writes, “While The Paisley Fields have a good bit in common with contemporary country — rich production, songs with pop bones and twangy accents — the band probably won’t be touring with Toby Keith anytime soon. They’re a refreshing change from country radio.” The band tours frequently, and their latest album, Oh These Urban Fences, is described by No Depression as “a labor of love that demands your attention.” The Paisley Fields are James Wilson on keyboard and lead vocals, Anna Volpe on tambourine and vocals, James Steiner on drums and mandolin, and Rob Fernandez on bass. Renowned Brooklyn country artist Aron Blue will be joining The Paisley Fields for the first leg of their Paisley Pride tour this summer.
Ben Schrag and the Cautionaries
Ben Schrag is a singer-songwriter with punchy vocals, intimate lyrics, and big heart. Ben’s music has been described as “Mason Jennings Meets Ben Folds”. Ben is a relatively recent transplant to Iowa and has loved getting to know other songwriters in his new home state.
“Crystal clear upper vocal range and immensely pleasing, catchy originals” Nate Logsdon, Iowa Informer
“Ben Schrag has the most beautiful vocals on earth they literally make my ears cry.” Justin Booth, Kickstart the Sun