No Simple Road

Self-taught guitarist Bella Rayne shares her inspiring journey with us, beginning from the serendipitous discovery of an old guitar in her Northern California garage during 2020. Bella's passion for 90s alternative and grunge music sparked a creative awakening that has since led her to The Grateful Dead and to performing with some of her heroes. Her story showcases not just her musical prowess but also her artistic inclinations in visual arts and film photography, with aspirations to create music videos on the horizon. We talk a bit about Bella's experiences navigating the Grateful Dead community and the jam band scene as a young female musician. She shares the thrill of playing with iconic instruments like Jerry Garcia's 'Tiger' and playing alongside notable musicians like Melvin Seals and John Kadlecik, and the unique support system her family provides along her journey. Bella candidly discusses the challenges she faces in a traditionally male-dominated space and her aspirations for writing original music. Her story highlights the power of music as a unifying force that transcends generational and stylistic boundaries, breathing new life into the legacy of bands like the Grateful Dead, Talking Heads, and Allman Brothers. This episode paints a colorful picture of Bella's journey from a creatively inclined homeschooler to a rising star in the music scene. We touch upon her early interests in soccer, theater, and visual arts, as well as her unexpected venture into singing and how it broadened her musical repertoire. Bella's tale is a testament to the excitement of new interpretations in music, and the inspiring role young artists play in offering fresh perspectives on classic tunes. Head to ⁠bella-rayne.com⁠ for tour info and more and follow her on IG ⁠@bella_rayne⁠ -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are joined by two-thirds of the dynamic force behind the art rock band Mind at Large this week... Eli Mathews and Alex Donahue! Eli jumps right in to share the exciting news of his engagement and the harmonious chaos of his life outside the spotlight. From the heartwarming proposal story to the everyday joys of dog sitting and culinary escapades, Eli gives us a glimpse into his world, all while balancing the rich flavors of life and music. Our conversation takes on a new rhythm with Alex Donahue joining the discussion, bringing insights into his life as a father and a self-taught luthier. Alex reflects on the hero’s journey, emphasizing that perseverance shapes both personal and creative growth. We explore how the arrival of his child, Emerson, and the addition of his younger brother Andrew on drums have transformed Mind at Large, introducing a fresh beat that has revitalized their musical journey. This chapter of life is a testament to the evolution of both band and family, blending the excitement of parenthood with creative breakthroughs. Our conversation broadens to embrace the vibrant world of jam bands and the evolving music landscape shaped by platforms like YouTube. We explore the thrill of discovering new sounds, celebrating collective achievements, and embracing the imperfect beauty of music. From the inspiration found in simple, authentic sounds to the future of their band’s journey, every note resonates with growth and connection. Check out the new album 'Begin Aain' streaming everywhere and follow Mind At Large on IG @mindatlargemusic Head to mindatlargeband.net for tour info, news, and more! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Ever wondered how music festivals can spark deeper human connections? Get ready to explore the transformative power of the Ramble Festival, as we chat with founder Brick Lohr and collaborator in this year's Ramble, Kris Howland of Heady Wax Fiends. Discover the innovative partnerships shaping the festival scene, like the vinyl submission contest by Heady Wax Fiends. It is collaboration between individuals like Kris and Brick, who are enhancing the festival experience by merging music with vinyl culture. This artistic initiative not only offers artists the chance to join the Ramble festival lineup but also supports them in producing their next album on vinyl. It's an inspiring example of how connections and creative ideas can elevate the festival experience and provide musicians with unique opportunities beyond the stage. We talk a bit about the balance between passion and career as we highlight the joys of pursuing what you love through passion projects like podcasts and festivals. We emphasize the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's passions, even when they aren't the main source of income. As we gear up for the Ramble Festival, featuring acts like Chris Jacobs and The California Honey Drops, we celebrate the bonds formed through shared musical interests. The episode underscores our gratitude for community spaces that allow us to connect, recharge, and carry the festival spirit into everyday life, enriching the world with unity and joy. Head over to www.ramblefestival.com for tickets and info and on IG @ramblefestival and check out www.headywaxfiends.com for the coolest vinyl collecting club around and follow on IG @heady_wax_fiends -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This is a tough one this week for us here at No Simple Road. We are coming in raw, unfiltered, and in the moment on this episode. We're getting ready to lose a member of the NSR Family/Household and, true to our form, we are here with all of you going through it. If you've been a listener of the show for a while now you know that we don't hold stuff back when we're going through it personally. We jump in and talk about it here on the show as a form of therapy and as a way to let all of you know that we go through tough stuff sometimes too. This week is one of those episodes where we really just couldn't do much more than let it out. Thanks for listening to us and for being here to support us. We love y'all. -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are extremely excited to have Mason Via join us for this week's episode of No Simple Road! Mason opens up about the highs and lows of touring life, balancing the demands of performance with personal health, and finding harmony between the expectations of a musician's life and the realities of constant travel. Our conversation meanders through Mason's experiences growing up in a festival community, where he honed his craft at fiddlers conventions, finding the soul of music in lively campgrounds rather than grand stages. We discuss the delicate balance between achieving fame and maintaining genuine fan connections, inspired by artists like Billy Strings who masterfully blend mainstream appeal with grassroots intimacy. Mason reflects on the resurgence of bluegrass music and the crucial role of community in both its education and practice, where collaboration and rhythm create a powerful, transcendent experience. We also touch on the instructional side of bluegrass, with a nod to influential educators like Jim Panky and Marcel Ardans, who champion the communal and instructional spirit of this enduring genre. Finally, Mason sheds light on his personal life, celebrating his recent marriage and aspirations of settling back in Nashville, proving that the journey of a musician is as much about personal growth as it is about performance. Head over to masonvia.com for tour info, music and more and follow Mason on IG @mason_via -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week on the Rewind we are in the studio, stuffy noses, coughs, and all talking about the emergence of A.I. Is it connected to a universal field of consciousness, can it be tapping into something that we humans cannot? Are we on the brink of a shift in everything we have ever known? Also, can we really, "Do the research."? In a world of infinite opinions and findings, can we really know for sure about anything anymore? Join us for this lighthearted conversation. -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠⁠Young & Sick⁠⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week on the Rewind we are finally recapping the whirlwind Spring Phish PNW run!! Better late than never, as they say. Join us for an in depth chat about our experience seeing Phish in our own dojo for the first time! From tight security at Climate Pledge Arena, a wizard on the train, Jedi mind tricks, to a hometown throw down at the Moda Center here in Portland, this was one hell of a run for the No Simple Road crew! -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠Young & Sick⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are so excited to have Crystal Lariza of Never Come Down wtih us on No Simple Road this week. This episode spotlights the vibrant experiences of Never Come Down, a band that has carved its path across borders and bluegrass festivals, becoming musical ambassadors on a global stage. Excitement and exploration define our conversations with Crystal, as she shares insights into their transformative performances across Europe and beyond, including their pioneering impact as the first bluegrass band to grace the stage in Bosnia. The band's dedication to music education and cultural exchange shines brightly, emphasizing the universal language of music that bridges cultural divides. Through stories of cowboy hats, jam circles, and collaborations, we uncover the rich tapestry of influences that shape their unique sound and creative process. This episode isn't just about music; it's about the human connections formed through shared passions and the unpredictable paths life offers. From the intimate tales of life's lessons in the Methow Valley to the shared moments of camaraderie on tour, we explore themes of authenticity, community, and the beauty of the present moment. As we reflect on these stories, we're reminded of the wisdom in embracing the unexpected and cherishing the journey, with gratitude and a smile. Head over to www.nevercomedownband.com for tour info and more and follow them on IG @nevercomedownband -FREE SHIPPING from ⁠Shop Tour Bus⁠ Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from ⁠The Grateful Mountain⁠ with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - ⁠Young & Sick⁠ MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN⁠ OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: ⁠CHILLDREN OF INDIGO⁠ No Simple Road is part of ⁠OSIRIS MEDIA⁠. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

We are so excited to have the one and only Bob Bralove as our guest on No Simple Road this week! Reminiscing about the magnetic pull of legendary live performances, we reflect on the timeless impact of icons like Stevie Wonder, the Grateful Dead, and The Beatles. The past's vibrant music scene, where creative titans like John Cage and Salvador Dali mingled, serves as a backdrop for our discussion on the evolution of musical exploration. From the analog magic of pre-digital discoveries to the digital era's effortless access, this episode offers a nostalgic yet forward-looking perspective on how the journey of discovering music has transformed but continues to shape personal and collective experiences. Music, an eternal uniter, transcends the imaginary divisions of the world—this truth resonates throughout our conversation. As we navigate the delicate dance of personal expression and collaborative creation, the evocative power of music emerges as a comforting force. Taking all of Bob's influences and creating the new album 'Acoustic Conversations' has been a journey. We get to hear all about the creation of improvised sounds with violinist Patti Weiss and how this new album was born. Head over to www.bobbralove.com to check out the album and find out all the info! -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

This week we are joined in-studio by Jack McGrane , Chris Stein, and Baby Boy, organizers of Mojo Family Fest 2025! We dive right into the creative whirlwind that includes wild ideas like using EEG technology for live brain wave displays on stage, all of which make Mojo Family Fest a one-of-a-kind experience and explore the lessons learned from five years of crafting the Mojo Fest, where patience and perseverance have cultivated a vibrant community hub. Returning to the same location for the first time has simplified planning, allowing the festival to thrive and rejuvenate its attendees without the burnout of larger events. From wizard-themed shows and Black Sabbath tributes to the shared love for Phish and the Jam Band scene at large, Mojo Family Fest is rich with memorable moments and unexpected surprises. Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, this festival, complete with promises to keep the spirit of community and celebration alive, encouraging us all to hydrate, look out for one another, and cherish the connections forged through music. Head over to www.bodhimojo.com for tickets! -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week on the Rewind we are in the studio with Jake O'Halloran and Thomas Jimenez of The Supernatural Beavers! This one has been a long time coming for sure! We get right into it chatting about the origins of the band, late night research, rotating casts of characters, the PDX music ecosystem, finding the music of The Grateful Dead, and a ton more! Follow The Supernatural Beavers on Instagram @supernaturalbeavers to keep abreast of upcoming shows and info! -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week on the Rewind we are back with in the studio caching y'all up on what's been going on over here! Apple's recent brush with gravity, a night of Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, a morning of Billy Strings inspiration, relationship healing, career woes, and finding one's 'Special Purpose'... it's all here in this episode! -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Join us on a captivating journey through the storied history of the counterculture movement with none other than Dennis McNally, the celebrated publicist for the Grateful Dead. Dennis brings his unique perspective to our discussion about the hippie movement's lasting impact on modern society, including the rise of organic food, yoga, and Human rights. With anecdotes from his personal experiences and upcoming book entitled "The Last Great Dream: How Bohemians Became Hippies and Created the Sixties," Dennis provides fascinating insights into the evolution of cultural narratives. Our conversation wanders through the vibrant cultural renaissance of San Francisco, beginning with the poetry explosion of the 1940s. Dennis paints vivid pictures of pivotal moments, like the debut reading of Allen Ginsberg's "Howl" at the Sixth Gallery and the transformative Monterey Pop Festival. Along the way, we uncover how artistic and spiritual connections have shaped icons like Jerry Garcia and influenced movements like the Deadheads, all while reflecting on the delicate balance between personal stories and historical accounts in McNally's work. Dennis also offers a thoughtful exploration of psychedelic substances, from the transformative effects of LSD to the modern implications of ketamine in mental health treatment. As we discuss the commodification of counterculture, we highlight the importance of storytelling in preserving these influential movements for future generations. To pre-order Dennis' new book head to www.dennismcnally.com -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Mike and Steve from Soma Kirtan take us on an incredible journey, sharing how their roots in punk and hardcore music evolved into a deep appreciation for the Grateful Dead, and ultimately to Kirtan Music. They bring a unique perspective that intertwines music with spirituality, resulting in a sound that resonates with authenticity and soul. We’re honored to have them discuss their latest musical ventures and how their spiritual practices have shaped both their personal and professional lives. Our conversation traverses the fascinating landscape where punk rock ethos meets spiritual journeys, shedding light on how these seemingly disparate worlds can converge. Mike and Steve discuss the transformative nature of taking on new spiritual names and how communities, whether jam bands or spiritual gatherings, create profound connections. We explore the power of Kirtan and other spiritual music practices, drawing parallels to the communal experience of punk and Jam Band shows, all while touching on the complexities of cultural appreciation and the inspirations that drive their creativity. As we wrap up, we reflect on the importance of maintaining authenticity and navigating personal growth amidst spiritual exploration. From setting personal practice standards to rewriting narratives of past traumas, this episode is a testament to the power of music and spirituality in fostering understanding and connection. Follow SOMA Kirtan on IG @soma_kirtan Support SOMA on BandCamp HERE -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music

Catch up with the No Simple Road crew as they discuss everything from the music scene, family life, show recaps & reviews, spirituality, psychedelics, and everything in-between! This week on the Rewind we are back with a recap of the Newgrass Festival out in Newberg, Oregon this past weekend. We has an absolute blast at this new festival and loved seeing and feeling all of the goodness pouring from our local Oregon Bluegrass family! Wolves & People Brewery really outdid themselves with this one! And... no Rewind would be complete without a check-in with each of us to find out whats cookin'. -FREE SHIPPING from Shop Tour Bus Use The PROMO CODE: nosimpleroad -20% OFF & FREE SHIPPING IN THE US from The Grateful Mountain with the PROMO CODE: NSR20 INTRO MUSIC PROVIDED BY - Young & Sick MUSIC IN THE COMMERCIALS BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CIRCLES AROUND THE SUN OUTRO MUSIC BY AND USED WITH PERMISSION OF: CHILLDREN OF INDIGO No Simple Road is part of OSIRIS MEDIA. Osiris Media is the leading storyteller in music, combining the intimacy of podcasts with the power of music