Steamboat Locals

STEAMBOAT COMEDY - Ep. 131 Valentine's Preview

In this episode Kyle and Matt bring you all things Valentines day before the holiday coming up next week! Including super useful relationship advice, first date ideas, and Valentines sentences that have never been said. Other topics include the upcoming Superbowl match up between 2 teams everyone hates, Star Wars vs Marvel, and dumb middle school activities.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK | Banshee Tree

In this episode of Steamboat Sound Check, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, we dive deep into the world of Banshee Tree with drummer Michelle Pietrafitta, bassist Jason Bertone, and saxophonist Jesse Shantor as they gear up for their highly anticipated performance at Schmiggity’s on February 1, 2025.
 
Known for their electrifying fusion of early jazz, swing, indie, trance, and psychedelic rock, Banshee Tree has built a reputation for delivering high-energy, immersive live shows that push musical boundaries. In this conversation, we explore what makes the band tick:
🎶 Jason shares insights from his background in ethnomusicology and how it shapes the band’s sonic identity.💼 Michelle opens up about the balancing act of running the business side of the band while keeping the artistic vision intact.🎷Jesse, as the band’s newest member, talks about his role in evolving their sound and bringing fresh creative energy to the group.
From the magic of live improvisation to the challenges of independent touring, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves genre-defying music and the behind-the-scenes stories of life on the road.
Tune in and get ready for Banshee Tree to bring the heat to Schmiggity’s! As always, you can claim one FREE well drink at the show through the Steamboat Locals App! 

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country | WinterWonderGrass Series

 
As part of our WinterWonderGrass Artist Spotlight series, we chat with Daniel Donato—a guitar virtuoso, songwriter, and the mind behind Cosmic Country. Known for his mind-bending improvisation, deep musical philosophy, and electrifying live performances, Donato has carved out a unique space in the modern music landscape, blending country, rock, and psychedelic influences into a sound that’s entirely his own.
In this episode, as Daniel is getting set to hop into a song writing session with Brent Cobb, he gives us a few minutes to dive into his introduction to music. He shares how a high school teacher turned him on to The Grateful Dead, sparking the idea of merging Nashville country with jam-band improvisation—an experiment that evolved into Cosmic Country. We explore his creative process, the influence of Carl Jung’s teachings on duality, and his thoughts on psychedelics as a tool for both artistic expansion and mental health.
Daniel also opens up about his approach to crafting albums in an era dominated by singles, what fans can expect from his upcoming record, and how he tailors his high-energy, marathon-length shows into a festival-friendly format. Plus, we talk about his return to WinterWonderGrass Steamboat and why this festival is the perfect home for genre-bending artists like himself.
Whether you’re a longtime Cosmic Country fan or just discovering Daniel Donato’s music, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Tune in to Steamboat Sound Check, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, and get ready for a deep dive into the mind of one of modern music’s most exciting artists.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - The Brothers Comatose | WinterWonderGrass Series

As part of our ongoing series highlighting musicians playing this year’s WinterWonderGrass festival, we had the great pleasure of visiting with Ben Morrison of The Brothers Comatose for the Steamboat Sound Check podcast, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry. Together, we explored the band’s journey, their influences, and what fans can expect from their upcoming performance at WWG.
Formed in San Francisco, The Brothers Comatose have built a reputation as one of the most exciting and genre-blending string bands in the modern Americana scene. While rooted in bluegrass, their sound is infused with rock, folk, and an undeniable energy that sets them apart. We explored how the rich and eclectic Bay Area music scene has shaped their sound, from the legends of the ‘60s to the present day.
Ben shared stories from their 2018 cultural exchange tour with American Music Abroad, where the band traveled through Asia, experiencing new sounds and traditions that left a lasting impact on their music. We also talked about the recent addition of multi-instrumentalist Addie Levy, how she’s reshaping the band’s dynamic, and what it’s like for a founding member to welcome fresh creative energy into an established group.
Of course, we couldn’t chat without touching on the band’s knack for putting their signature twist on classic songs. Their latest release, a stunning rendition of Jackson Browne’s “These Days” featuring AJ Lee & Blue Summit, is just the latest in a long line of well-loved covers, including Neil Young’s “Harvest” and Amy Winehouse’s “Valerie”. Ben gave insight into how they choose which songs to reimagine and what it was like collaborating with AJ Lee.
With WinterWonderGrass on the horizon, we discussed the festival’s uniquely collaborative spirit, the bands Ben is most excited to jam with, and what fans can expect from The Brothers Comatose’s set on Saturday, March 1st.
Tune in for an engaging conversation about music, evolution, and the power of community in the bluegrass world.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - Kyle Tuttle | WinterWonderGrass Series

In this special episode of the Steamboat Sound Check podcast, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, we’re thrilled to spotlight one of bluegrass music’s most innovative and accomplished artists, Kyle Tuttle. This episode is part of our series highlighting the talented musicians performing at this year’s WinterWonderGrass festival.
Kyle Tuttle is a Grammy Award-winning banjoist, National Bluegrass Banjo Champion, and a member of the acclaimed band Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway. Known for his unparalleled expertise and dynamic playing style, Kyle’s career has spanned over a decade, featuring numerous accolades and projects, including his solo albums Bobcat and the deeply personal Labor of Lust.
In our candid and insightful conversation, Kyle reflects on his journey from the release of Bobcat nearly 10 years ago to his latest album, Labor of Lust, a project shaped by significant life events, including the loss of his mentor Jeff Austin, a divorce and a global pandemic. We explore how these experiences influenced his songwriting and the emotional depth of the album.
Kyle also discusses his evolving relationship with the banjo, including his resolution to reconnect with the instrument purely for fun. He shares how this renewed approach has influenced both his personal joy and professional artistry.
As a long-time WinterWonderGrass family member, Kyle opens up about the festival’s unique place in his heart, and a look at the spontaneous collaborations and improvisation that make festivals like WinterWonderGrass so magical.
Join us for this engaging episode to gain a deeper understanding of Kyle Tuttle’s artistry, philosophy, and passion for bluegrass. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the genre, this conversation is sure to inspire and entertain.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - Sister Sadie | WinterWonderGrass Series

Continuing our special series highlighting the incredible artists performing at this year’s WinterWonderGrass Festival, we sit down with Deanie Richardson and Dani Flowers of Sister Sadie, the groundbreaking all-female bluegrass band.
From their unplanned beginnings in 2012 at Nashville’s iconic Station Inn to becoming IBMA Entertainer of the Year winners, Sister Sadie has consistently pushed the boundaries of bluegrass while staying true to its roots. Deanie and Dani discuss how the band blends their unique musical styles into a cohesive sound, even through lineup changes, and share insights into their latest album, No Fear, which broadens their bluegrass foundation with elements of country, folk, pop, and rock.
We also explore their new single, If I Don’t Have You, co-written by Dani and Deanie, and how it reflects a more intimate and contemplative side of their songwriting. Finally, they share their excitement for their debut at WinterWonderGrass, a festival celebrated for its music, community spirit, and snowy mountain vibes.
WinterWonderGrass Festival takes over Steamboat Springs February 28–March 2. Get your tickets now at www.winterwondergrass.com.
The Steamboat Sound Check Podcast is presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry

Common Folk in the Boat (Ep. 20 Ben Berend)

In this episode, presented by Billo Premium Cannabis, we sit down with Ben Berend, a name that resonates deeply with the heart of Steamboat Springs.
A native of this vibrant mountain town, Ben grew up carving his path on the legendary slopes of Howelsen Hill, fueled by a dream of Olympic glory. That dream became reality in 2018 when Ben represented the United States in Nordic combined skiing at the Winter Olympics, etching his name among Steamboat’s elite athletic legends.
But Ben’s story doesn’t stop at the Olympics. He’s a bridge between Steamboat’s storied past and its evolving present. From the early days of watching local heroes like Jonny Spillane and Todd Lodwick redefine Nordic combined on the world stage, to reflecting on the rich legacy of Carl Howelsen—the Flying Norwegian who founded the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club—Ben shares how these influences shaped his journey.
We’ll also explore the challenges and triumphs of his post-Olympic transition. Now a leading real estate professional with The Boyd & Berend Group at Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty, Ben has found a new way to impact his community, helping others discover their dreams in the Yampa Valley.
Throughout the conversation, Ben offers thoughtful insights into pressing issues facing Nordic combined today, including the fight for gender equality in the sport, the looming threat of Olympic exclusion, and the critical role grassroots efforts play in sustaining its future.
Join us as we uncover Ben’s reflections on his journey—from his childhood on Howelsen Hill to standing under the Olympic spotlight, and now, helping others build lives in the valley that gave him so much. This is a story of resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of Steamboat Springs.

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK | Railroad Earth

In this episode of the Steamboat Sound Check podcast, we chat with Carey Harmon, drummer and vocalist for Railroad Earth.
Harmon shared insights into his musical journey and the band's evolution. Reflecting on a pivotal moment from his childhood, Harmon recounted how, in fourth grade, he was handed drumsticks when his school ran out of saxophones. This serendipitous event set him on a path to becoming a drummer, leading to a diverse musical career. In the 1990s, Harmon lived and worked in New York, collaborating with Latin and West African musicians in Spanish Harlem, which enriched his rhythmic repertoire.
Discussing Railroad Earth's formation, Harmon highlighted the band's rapid ascent from local New Jersey venues to the renowned Telluride Bluegrass Festival in 2001. After recording a live-to-tape demo, they secured a spot at Telluride, marking only their tenth performance as a band. This opportunity led to a record deal with Sugar Hill Records, propelling them into the national spotlight. Harmon also touched on the band's unique sound, noting that while traditional bluegrass rarely features percussion, Railroad Earth embraced a progressive style from the start, integrating drums to blend rock, folk, and bluegrass elements. Looking ahead, Harmon expressed excitement for their upcoming performance at the Strings Music Pavilion in Steamboat Springs on February 21, eager to reconnect with fans and build upon their memorable sold-out show in 2023.
The Steamboat Sound Check podcast is presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry,

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK - WinterWonderGrass Series | Arkansauce

In the lead-up to WinterWonderGrass 2025 in Steamboat, the Steamboat Sound Check podcast will feature a series of exclusive interviews, spotlighting the talented musicians and bands set to take the stage at this year's festival, February 28 – March 2.
In this episode, we sit down with Arkansauce, the genre-blending band known for their high-energy performances and unique mix of bluegrass, folk, funk, and more. With their traditional four-person bluegrass setup—featuring Tom Andersen on bass, Zac Archuleta on guitar, Ethan Bush on mandolin, and Adams Collins on banjo—the band explores newgrass with an eclectic twist. In this interview, we dive deep into their creative process, discussing how each band member's diverse musical influences—ranging from 80s electro/hip-hop to New Orleans funk—come together to form their dynamic sound. Arkansauce opens up about how they maintain a cohesive vibe while still allowing each member’s individuality to shine through in their songwriting and performances.
With WinterWonderGrass 2025 in Steamboat Springs just around the corner, the band discusses their excitement to hit the stage at one of Steamboat's most anticipated events of the year. They also reveal how they tailor their setlist and approach to perform for the festival crowd, ensuring a lively and unforgettable experience for the audience. Don't miss this insightful conversation with Arkansauce as they prepare to bring their one-of-a-kind sound to Steamboat!

STEAMBOAT SOUND CHECK | Giant Walking Robots

In this episode of the Steamboat Sound Check Podcast, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, we sit down with Dave Halchak, the multifaceted frontman of Giant Walking Robots and Wake Up and Live, Denver’s long-running Bob Marley tribute band. As part of our winter series highlighting the talented musicians gracing the stage at Schmiggity’s, Dave shares his journey from his East Coast roots in New Jersey to the heart of Denver’s vibrant music scene, where he masterfully blends reggae, rock, and jamtronica into a genre-defying sound.
Dave opens up about balancing his roles as a musician, music booker, and family man, as well as the creative process behind Giant Walking Robots’ latest album, Wake Up. He also gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming 13th annual Bob Marley Birthday Celebration, where his tribute band will perform Marley’s iconic Exodus album. With humor and heart, Dave reflects on what makes Steamboat audiences and the Schmiggity’s stage so special, and we find out if the rumor that he snowboards in jeans is true!
Don’t forget: if you’re heading to Schmiggity’s this weekend, open the Steamboat Locals App for a link to claim a free well drink. Tune in to this episode for a behind-the-scenes look at Dave Halchak’s music, life, and what fans can expect at Schmiggity’s this winter!