Top Hill Recording Podcast

Introducing Marygolds, the throwback four-piece indie band from the vibrant music scene of Louisville, Kentucky. Formed with a shared passion for raw, soulful soundscapes, Marygolds burst onto the scene with their debut self-titled EP in August of 2023, setting ears ablaze with a five-track record infused with heart, soul, and unapologetic grit. Drawing inspiration from an eclectic array of genres including indie garage rock, blues, folk, old soul, Americana, classic rock, and the raw energy of early 90's grunge, Marygolds craft a sound that's as diverse as it is captivating. Their music resonates with a timeless quality, weaving together nostalgic melodies and modern sensibilities. With heartfelt lyrics, Marygolds deliver their message with conviction, belting out soul-stirring tales over the warm hum of tube amps. Backed by a fat and tight rhythm section, their music pulses with an infectious energy. Whether you're a lover or a fighter, Marygolds have something for you. Their music speaks to the depths of the human experience, tapping into emotions with honesty and vulnerability. Brace yourself for a journey through the highs and lows of life, as Marygolds take you on a sonic adventure that's sure to hit you right in the feels. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Making his start in a small town of Southern Florida, Colton began writing music that featured mature and fully developed stories. As a seasoned pianist and performer, he's been a part of shows opening for the Eli Young Band, Chris Jansen, and Ian Munsick, among others. Blending elements of Country, Blues, Alternative, and Pop, his goal is to create a diverse portfolio of songs that address points of view not commonly mentioned in today's writing rooms. His move to Nashville has emphasized his commitment to developing meaningful music, a passion he's carried with him his entire life. He's since established himself in Nashville as a dynamic artist and musician with an electric stage presence, playing at renowned venues across town. He recently released his first single Magnolia which is currently available on all streaming services. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Jay Williams, a creative force in the music world, calls Louisville, Kentucky, home while currently residing in Indiana. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, Jay's artistry knows no bounds, blending genres with finesse and innovation. With a penchant for pop fusion and hyper pop, Jay brings a fresh perspective to the music scene, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing melodies and infectious energy. Top Hill Recording first met Jay as the keys player for Elements of Sound (Episode 195), where his piano is a cornerstone of the group's sound. Stepping into the spotlight, Jay Williams has unleashed his creative vision, fusing his love for pop with experimental production techniques. The result is a sonic tapestry that defies convention, blending lush piano arrangements with pulsating beats and avant-garde textures. Jay invites listeners to join him on a journey of sonic exploration, promising an exhilarating musical experience. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Having witnessed Bedford's evolution firsthand, from their inception as a tight-knit four-piece to their current incarnation as a trio, it's evident that the bond between best friends Tristian Frazier and Samuel May forms the very heart of their music. For over 15 years, they've woven melodies and lyrics together, creating a tapestry of sound that reflects their enduring friendship and shared musical vision. The latest chapter in their story sees the addition of guitarist Colin Michael, expanding Bedford's sonic landscape and infusing their music with newfound depth and dynamism. Last appearing on Top Hill Recording Podcast as a four-piece band, Bedford now stands as a trio, ready to embark on a new phase of their journey. Blending soulful vocals, rhythmic finesse, and electrifying instrumental prowess, Bedford's sound is a testament to their collective individual musical talents. Their music resonates with the timeless allure of rock while embracing growth and evolution, mirroring the enduring bond that binds them together. With a foundation as solid as the bedrock of Kentucky limestone, Bedford is poised to carve out their own distinctive niche in the musical landscape, inviting audiences to join them on a journey fueled by friendship, creativity, and unwavering passion. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Earl Bowman may be new to Louisville’s music scene but he’s working hard to make a name for himself. Earl has had the chance to open shows for Logan Halstead, and Riley Downing, and has appeared on playlists by GemsOnVHS, Americana Highways, and The Alt-Country Show. Earl is also the co-host of the Top Hill Recording Podcast. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Grace Pelle's musical journey began in her earliest memories. During her upbringing, the notion of songwriting as work eluded her. Songwriting simply flowed naturally; an inherent aspect of her cognitive makeup. This initial fascination with songwriting paved the path toward production for Grace. Armed with self-taught expertise in Logic, the budding artist embarked on sculpting a unique sonic identity. Grace emerges as a multifaceted talent, embodying the essence of a one-woman show. She not only crafts her own compositions but also harnesses her production prowess to infuse tracks with her distinct style, all while delivering performances and recordings echoing the fervor of Adele coupled with the contemporary allure of Billie Eilish. Her unfiltered, genuine expressions resonate profoundly in an era where countless young souls find solace in the music of Eilish and contemporaries like Olivia Rodrigo. Grace stands as the convergence point of pop, indie, and rock, enveloped in a veneer of optimism. Her musical narrative epitomizes balance: she taps into the creative, ephemeral world of songwriting before delving into the technical intricacies of production. Unafraid to explore the profound and tender facets of human existence, she adorns her compositions with vibrant aesthetics, crafting a captivating beacon for her audience. Ultimately, Grace Pelle extends an opportunity for listeners to rekindle their inner innocence. Through her music, she constructs a bridge between a past characterized by freedom and innocence, guiding listeners towards a future illuminated with newfound hope. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Emily Jamerson, the soulful songbird hailing from the enchanting hills of Prestonsburg, Kentucky, embodies the essence of Appalachian spirit in her music. Emily's journey into the world of melodies is nurtured by the rich musical heritage of her surroundings and the harmonies of her musical family. Her voice, molded by the rugged beauty of eastern Kentucky, echoes the whispers of the mountains and the stories of generations past. A blend of folk singer and mountain siren, Emily's enchanting melodies draw listeners into a realm where time seems to stand still, and the essence of the Appalachians comes alive. In her songs, Emily weaves tales of resilience, love, and the indomitable spirit of her mountain home. Each lyric is a testament of hope amidst life's trials and tribulations. With every strum of her guitar and every note that escapes her lips, Emily invites you to embark on a journey through the heart of Appalachia, where the mountains sing their secrets and the rivers whisper tales of old. Through her music, she leaves an indelible mark on the souls of all who listen. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

From the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, Shane Spader is a versatile musician with a penchant for serene mornings on the water, crafting artisanal bread, and weaving heartfelt melodies on his trusty acoustic guitar. Blending elements of folk, soft rock, and a touch of vintage country, his music embodies the essence of a true singer-songwriter. With soothing vocals and infectious melodies, Shane's compositions offer an easy-listening experience that invites listeners to tap their feet in harmony. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Bred in the kennels of Louisville, Kentucky, LUCYTHEDOG emerges as the brainchild of musical kindred spirits Sam Hall and Tim Spayd. Formed in 2022, their collaboration was a cosmic connection of sonic soulmates. Their sound? Well, they're not quite ready to slap a label on it just yet. But one thing's for sure: it's groovy, it rocks, and it's unmistakably LUCYTHEDOG. With only a handful of shows under their belt, this dynamic duo is already making waves with their infectious energy and undeniable chemistry. LUCYTHEDOG has big plans. They're on a mission to grace your ears with their creations month after month, with high hopes for a full-length record in the near future. Why do they do it? They do it because they love it. Their passion for music is palpable in every riff, every beat, every lyric. And just like their namesake, LUCYTHEDOG is available to adopt – so why not take a chance on this musical mutt and let their tunes into your life? Join the pack and follow the journey of LUCYTHEDOG. After all, as they say, SOMOSLUCYTHEDOG – we are LUCYTHEDOG. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Joe Piano is a folk trio from Louisville, Kentucky, anchored by the musical prowess of songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Jesse Weber-Owens. Joining Jesse are fellow multi-instrumentalist Jean Christopher-Gorce and Louisville Orchestra violist Jon "Jonny" Mueller. Jesse's musical journey began at the age of nine when he discovered his perfect pitch and keen ear while learning the guitar. Since then, his appetite for musical exploration has known no bounds, leading him to master a diverse array of instruments, including the cello, banjo, mandolin, and piano. Joe Piano initially served as Jesse's solo project and a means of navigating life with hallucinatory schizophrenia. Despite grappling with schizophrenia and other mental health challenges, Jesse's passion for music remains undiminished, serving as both a driving force and a wellspring of creativity. With a staggering collection of unreleased tracks numbering in the hundreds and a catalog of over a thousand songs, Jesse often finds himself hallucinating melodies before transcribing them to paper. Transitioning towards a more collaborative, band-oriented approach to his music, Jesse has retired his solo identity as Joe Piano while retaining the name for the trio. At the core of Jesse's music lies a palpable sincerity, with his lyrics and melodies offering a window into his world. He generously invites listeners to explore his reality in their own personal way, guided by an unwavering authenticity emanating from the depths of his being. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Bradley McKinney, a skilled piano and saxophone artist based in Louisville, Kentucky, draws inspiration from a diverse range of genres such as rock & roll, jazz, hip-hop, blues, country, and classical music. His musical journey commenced at the age of 7 when he started playing the piano, and a few years later, he embarked on saxophone lessons. Throughout his high school years, Bradley showcased his musical prowess in various settings, participating in Marching Band, Pep Band, Jazz Band, Concert and Symphonic Bands, as well as contributing to his district's KMEA and All County programs. Upon graduating from high school, Bradley pursued his passion for jazz music and history at The University of Louisville (UofL). During his time at UofL, he engaged in diverse musical experiences, playing in the school's Marching Band, Jazz Ensembles, and various small jazz combos. Notable performances included collaborations with acclaimed musicians like Adam Nussbaum and Doc Severinsen. Bradley further enriched his musical education by studying in Bogota, Colombia, and attending Master Classes conducted by Bill Evans, David Becker, Mark Colby, and Don Braden. During this period, Bradley began making a name for himself as both a saxophone player and a solo pianist, captivating audiences in and around the Louisville area. Following his graduation from the Music School at UofL, he became the keyboard player for the Adrian Taylor Band and briefly contributed to Louisville's Grateful Dead cover band, Shiny and the Breeze. Currently, Bradley serves as the keyboard player for TOP SHELF in Louisville. Beyond his band engagements, Bradley continues to thrive as a solo pianist, enchanting audiences at prestigious venues including French Lick and West Baden Springs in Indiana, as well as The Seelbach Hotel, The Pandennis Club, and The Omni Hotel in Louisville. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Discover the origins of Limestone, which started in 2016 as an unnamed musical experiment by InSub Beckley and Jeff Westenhofer. With no specific goal other than bringing musicians together to see what magic would unfold, the indie rock project officially took on the name Limestone in November 2017. Join us on this podcast journey as we unravel the band's musical evolution. In the band's early days as a rock quartet, Limestone crafted a sound rooted in alt-rock, drawing inspiration from blues and punk. Their initial rock quartet phase resulted in the singles "Changing Ways" (December 2019) and "Never No Problem" (September 2021). Since 2022, the addition of violin and trumpet has transformed Limestone into a dynamic 6-piece ensemble, steering their sound towards lush pop with hints of folk and brass band influences. Dive into the band's journey of songwriting, culminating in their inaugural public performance in Louisville, Kentucky in December 2017. Join us as we unravel the rich tapestry of Limestone's musical narrative, from humble beginnings to the vibrant soundscape they've become today. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Welcome to the world of Taylor Katherine, a captivating singer/songwriter from Louisville, Kentucky. Taylor's journey began with a strong foundation as a classically trained vocalist, honing her skills at Georgetown College in Kentucky. Originally from Frankfort, Kentucky, Taylor made her move to Louisville in 2018, immersing herself in the vibrant local music scene. Her musical pursuits took an unexpected turn when the pandemic hit, leading to a loss of her service industry job. In the midst of uncertainty, Taylor found solace in learning to play ukulele and delving into the world of songwriting. Taylor Katherine's resilience and creativity bore fruit as she crafted her own songs, using her unique perspective to address both the beautiful and not-so-beautiful facets of life. Her music, a poignant reflection of universal experiences, quickly resonated with audiences. Taylor's soulful voice and relatable songwriting became a beacon of connection during challenging times. Adding another layer to her artistic journey, Taylor joined forces with Eric Condon and Richard Chandler to form the Taylor Katherine Trio. Together, they bring a dynamic fusion of talent that enhances Taylor's distinctive sound. In the heart of Kentucky, Taylor Katherine is swiftly gaining attention and amassing a dedicated fanbase. Her ability to encapsulate the essence of life's highs and lows in her music makes her a rising star in the regional music scene. Join us on a melodic adventure as we explore the enchanting world of the Taylor Katherine Trio. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Celebrate with us as we hit a major milestone in the world of music discovery and intimate live performances! Welcome to the 200th episode of the Top Hill Recording Podcast, where every note is a testament to raw talent and genuine artistry. From our humble beginnings in a bedroom that evolved into Top Hill Recording Studio, hosts Brad Weston and Neil Johnstone have been on a journey to spotlight extraordinary musicians. Nestled atop a picturesque hill in the heart of the Jefferson Memorial Forest in Fairdale, Kentucky, Top Hill Recording Studio is not just a place; it's a haven for creativity. The mission? To provide a high-quality public platform for showcasing the remarkable talents of musicians. After the soul-stirring, live, one mic, one take performances, Brad and Neil dive deep into the creative minds of their guests with insightful interviews. Learn about the inspiration, challenges, and triumphs behind the music. Join our music-loving community as the Top Hill Recording team (Brad Weston, Neil Johnstone, Brent West, Earl Bowman, and Spencer Corbin) marks this incredible milestone. Our community is a haven for artists who share a passion for musical expression. Join us on YouTube for "One Shot One Mic One Song", where each artist lays it all on the line, performing original live songs with just one microphone, in one take. Our weekly podcast is published everywhere you listen at noon eastern time every Friday. Thank you for being a part of this musical journey since our launch in December 2019. Here's to 200 episodes, countless unforgettable performances, and the limitless power of a single microphone capturing the essence of each song, each artist, in one beautiful take. Tune in to the 200th episode and experience the magic of Top Hill Recording – where every episode is a testament to the boundless creativity that thrives in the heart of our region. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Trevor and Trenton Jenkins, collectively known as The Jenkin Twins, hail from Irvine, Kentucky and have dedicated years to crafting a sort of "Cosmic Americana" that nods to contemporary indie while paying homage to golden-age pioneers like Bruce Springsteen, the Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, and Roy Orbison. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Top Hill sits down with Mark Roberts of The Monarch in Louisville, Kentucky. The Monarch stands as a nonprofit nexus for creativity, a social haven, and a valuable resource center nestled in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky. It serves as a dynamic community hub, embracing artists, musicians, and music enthusiasts alike. The one-of-a-kind co-working venue and intimate listening room form a secure haven where musicians can not only craft, collaborate, and showcase their talents but also foster personal and artistic growth. Providing writing spaces, rehearsal areas, and performance venues, along with communal tools of the trade, the Monarch extends assistance programs to bolster the local artistic community. Dedicated artist members and patron supporters are forging a resilient, interconnected, and lively creative network. The tangible manifestation is a welcoming space offering artist members convenient, at-will key-card entry into an atmosphere charged with creative vigor, fueled by the presence of like-minded peers and patrons. The Monarch community shares a common passion for original music and the creators behind it. Both artist and patron members gain entry to some of the most enchanting musical experiences the city has to offer. Louisville boasts an extraordinary wealth of musical talent, and The Monarch plays a pivotal role in amplifying the city's sonic landscape. By facilitating connections between artists and the audiences that propel their growth, the Monarch contributes immensely to the harmonious resonance of Louisville, Kentucky. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Lexington, Kentucky-based singer/songwriter Kyle Ayres goes by the name Buck the Taxidermist. The inception of this musical project occurred in 2015 when Kyle, then performing with a string band, felt a compelling need to capture his personal musical expressions. Buck the Taxidermist emerged from fragments of songs that had been simmering in Kyle's mind for years. Whether performing with a band, featuring a rotating lineup of Kentucky friends, or going solo, Kyle's creative direction draws inspiration from a mix of contemporary and vintage influences. His musical palette encompasses the modern sounds of The War on Drugs, Wilco, and Dr. Dog, as well as the timeless melodies of classic songwriters like Townes Van Zandt, Paul McCartney, Paul Simon, and Neil Young. The outcome of this fusion varies, reflecting the ebb and flow of Kyle's creative process. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Sydney Sleadd is a singer/songwriter from Louisville, Kentucky. She has been writing and performing on and off since 2011 and was formerly known as "Alabama Brown" before deciding to switch from a stage name to her real name. She released one EP under Alabama Brown in 2012, and another under Sydney Sleadd in 2016. She released 2 new singles and is back in the studio working on a full length album. Sydney is a self-taught musician who first learned piano as a child and then guitar in her early 20's. She started writing songs in her teen years as a way to process difficult emotions and make sense of the world around her. She has a storytelling style of writing, and her songs range from diary entries to musings about life. Her music is hard to classify in a single genre as she weaves folk, grunge, soul, and outlaw country throughout her discography. She is known for her clever lyrics, unique playing style, and powerhouse vocals. Sydney has been featured in Louisville Music News, on Great Day Live, and Cumberland Country Music. She hosted a "Ladies of Louisville" music in the round at Lettersong for 2 years bringing lesser known local female artists into the spotlight. She has played at many prominent local venues including ZanzaBar, Hard Rock Cafe, the Rudyard Kipling, Odeon, and opened for Lydia Loveless at Uncle Slayton's. She  performed at The Moon and Stars Festival for her second year and recently opened for Australian band "MANE" at The Monarch. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

Hailing from Southern Indiana, Elements of Sound draws inspiration from rock, folk, pop, blues and hip hop. Justin Miller started with acoustic guitar and beat boxing in Louisville, Kentucky before moving to looping and becoming a multi-instrumentalist. This lineup of Elements consist of Justin Miller on guitar and lead vocals, Noel Calilung on bass guitar, Nate King on drums, Jared Burch on keys, Good Time Charlie Dixon on djembe, and Lance Oliphant on guitar. Elements of Sound often joins forces with other local bands and talent in the Kentuckiana area, contributing to a rich collaborative culture among the local music community. Since 2017, the Elements of Sound have been cutting their teeth at grassroots festivals, events and weekly bar shows. You can catch them nearly every weekend in the Louisville and Southern Indiana area. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support

iLL ViBE TRiBE is a hip hop collective from Louisville, Kentucky founded by Brandon Abstain (BRAiNiAK) in 2018. The ARTiSTS are EMU7ATiON, BiLLY BROWN, CHRiSTiAN ALEXANDER, DMT, and BRAiNiAK. THE BAND is BEN (Bass), ALEX (Guitar, Turntables) SAM (Keyboards) DMT (Drums). The TRiBE banded together to create good vibes and good music while, more importantly, building a community of free thinkers driven by the same goals. The TRiBE represents freedom and the ability to create in a positive space. The "i" in the TRiBE is important but only as a part of the whole. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support