Wednesdays, Nov 11 - Dec 30

SHOW 7:30 - 9:30pm "The Minnesota songwriter showcase", a Twin Cities tradition since 2005, is curated by Nick Hensley of Love songs for angry men and features 12 up-and-coming and veteran songwriters every Wednesday from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM Sept-May... and it's a FREE show! For more information message us at: facebook.com/MNsongwritershowcase Jim Walsh (music critic and author) called: “The Minnesota Songwriter Showcase is the piece de resistance of the area’s songwriter’s, as hosted by songwriters/musicians Nick Hensley and backed by a two- and sometimes three-piece band. The talent level is always solid.”

Sundays, Nov 8, 2026 - Jan 31, 2027

Patty and The Buttons preach the gospel of hot rhythm and happy feet. The band is similar to what you would find in a dance hall, cafe or nightclub anywhere around the world between 1920-1940. Despite being an ensemble firmly rooted in tradition, the band presents their music without being shackled to history. They play their own compositions as well as takes on music of the era. Patty’s eclectic taste gives the band diverse influences including New Orleans Traditional Jazz, Western Swing, Gypsy Melodies, Ragtime Piano Blues, Jug Music and 1930′s Popular Song. Music 11am - 2pm

Nov 12

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Allison Mahal is an Americana artist from the Midwest. Her music has garnered attention from local and national press alike, including NPR, Under The Radar, American Songwriter, Milwaukee Magazine, Milwaukee Record, and Consequence of Sound, who featured her single “Autopilot,” writing, “it feels as though she’s stepped into some of her own power.” Recently, she’s taken on the Midwest with performances at Mile of Music, The Sh*tty Barn, Brady Street Festival, Summer Soulstice Music Fest, Marquette Waterfront Fest, Gibson Music Hall, Cactus Club (supporting Ira Wolf and Sway Wild), a two night run opening up for The Jayhawks at the Barrymore Theater and Poplar Hall as well as Dan Rodriguez, most recently. Van Isaacson will be opening the evening. allisonmahal.com Whitney Fenimore is a Nashville-based indie artist whose music blends indie-folk, Americana, and singer/songwriter sensibilities into something deeply personal — rooted in raw emotion, vivid storytelling, and a voice that balances strength with vulnerability. Raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Whitney grew up immersed in the culture of the Bible Belt, surrounded by Christian music and faith-based expectations that shaped much of her early identity. As she navigated faith, identity, sexuality, anxiety, and self-discovery, Whitney found herself drawn toward a more honest and expansive version of herself — one that now fuels the heart of her music. www.whitneyfenimore.com

Nov 13

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm-10:30pm Billy Johnson is a singer/songwriter from Minneapolis. Billy was the lead singer of The Hillcats, and is the lead singer of Billy Johnson’s Roadshow. He also has an acoustic duo called B-TEAM with George McKelvey. Billy has recorded 10 CDs. He strums a Gibson guitar with soul, and has a great vocal range, and is joined by the incomparable Late Snyder and unmatched Luke Ericksen to deliver a trademarked night of feel-good music. $15 Tickets in Advance or Day of Show

Nov 14

DOORS 7:30 SHOW 8:30 - 10:30 Mae & the Guys is a seasoned Americana outfit led by veteran vocalist Mae Rukavina, whose commanding stage presence and connective vocals have delivered over 23 years of live performance. This new band features original member Spike Stich on guitar/mandolin AND long-time member and acclaimed Minneapolis drummer Bob Johnston to forge a new chapter with fresh momentum. The band welcomes new bassist Christian Twigg into the fold, whose international touring experience brings depth and drive to this energetic group. Local keyboard/accordion legend Jason Craft rounds out the band with years of collaborative history, adding dynamic to their evolving sound. Together, they deliver a high-caliber Americana Rock sound that’s road-tested, soulful and timeless. maeandtheguys.com $20 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Nov 19

DOORS 7pm SHOW 8-10pm MNAKED RETURNS! (A storyteller night w/ two of MN’s best songwriters! ALL • STRIPPED • DOWN) Act One: Lena Elizabeth Act Two: Laura Hugo & friends Curated by the good people at the Minnesota Songwriter Showcase lovesongsforangrymen.com $12 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Nov 20

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Lily DeTaeye is a Des Moines, IA native with a foundation in alt rock, pop, and folk. Her third studio album EVEN WITH MY EYES CLOSED is a nostalgic and biting entry into the world of dreamy pop. Think Lilith Fair etherealism meets barbed hooks that stick right in the jaw. DeTaeye is based in Brooklyn, NY. www.instagram.com/lilydetaeye/?hl=en Twin Cities singer-songwriter Molly Brandt writes vivid stories that come to life even more with her powerhouse vocals. Two-time Americana Artist of the Year (Midwest Country Music Awards), her albums trace her bold evolution from classic honky-tonk to psychedelic Americana—continually pushing the envelope while never abandoning her country roots. www.instagram.com/themollybrandt/?hl=en

Nov 21

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm A Piano in Every Home, led by Travis and Jake, began their musical journey in Wisconsin before finding a permanent home in Saint Paul, MN. The group has opened for renowned artists like Lewis Capaldi, Dessa, and Jeremy Messersmith, showcasing their eclectic blend of indie folk, alternative rock, and atmospheric pop. Their new album, released on October 4, 2024, offers a fresh take on themes of love, memory, and life’s ephemeral patterns. The poignant and nostalgic lyrics are wrapped in a tapestry of pop-forward and atmospheric instrumentation. The album promises to resonate deeply with long-time listeners and offer an equally rich experience for those discovering the group for the first time. apianoineveryhome.com Lars Lane is a brand new solo project deployed by Lars Pruitt, previously of the band Yam Haus. There is no music released yet, no managers or agents, just some demos and a dream. $20 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Nov 24

This show is in the River Room, right next door to Aster Cafe. Seating is first come first serve with a ticket. DOORS 6:30pm SHOW 7:30pm An Intimate Musical Experience Featuring St. Paul Peterson & Dr. Fink. Two Extraordinary Artists. One Unforgettable Night Of Music. Legendary Prince Alumni, guitarist St Paul Peterson (The Time, The Family, Purple Rain) and keyboardist Dr. Fink (Prince, The Revolution, Purple Rain), join together to bring you a stripped-down performance of live music & storytelling. $40 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show depending on availability.

Nov 27

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30 - 10:30pm Folk, rock, blues, country and more combine to create the iconic sound of Samantha Grimes - Americana grown in the Midwest. Her natural inclination towards melodies and storytelling set her apart from her peers early on. That - and the happy accident that became her signature style: Left-handed and upside down guitar playing. For 25 years, Samantha has been performing her all-original music. Her solo live performances earned her the distinction of Entertainer of the Year in 2024 for the International Singer/Songwriter Association, as well as Americana Folk Artist of the Year for the Josie Music Awards at the Grand Ole Opry. She is also a member of the Midwest All Music Hall of Fame, and was recently crowned Maverick of the Year for the Midwest Country Music Organization. Her latest album, "Stripped” has already garnered accolades and has been opening doors to performing with regional and international acts such as Eli Young Band and Charlie Parr. www.samanthagrimesmusic.com Amanda Grace is a Minnesota native singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, releasing music drifting between folk, alt- pop/rock and Americana. With roots as a pianist her writing is thematically varied with an emphasis on melody; with ballads wrapped in warm vocals. In 2016 she received a Front Of The Line Pass from The Voice and her seventh album, “Please Dear Sun,” was nominated for Blues & Roots Radio Album Of The Year. Amanda just released her eighth album called Give Me Away, and “As she hops from one genre to another, she doesn’t try to change, tweak, alter, or reinvent them. She simply owns them. And that is the secret of making yourself stand apart from the pack.” – Dave Franklin, Big Takeover $15 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Nov 28

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Don't miss these very special back-to-back performances by singer / songwriter / folk activist David Huckfelt & his all-star band The Mystery Lights live + in-person at The Aster Cafe!  Featuring special guests & some of the finest musicians in the Midwest as well as new songs from his forthcoming record, Huckfelt + crew will bring their stories & songs of no-spiritual-surrender to the Aster for the first time ever!  www.davidhuckfelt.com $20 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Nov 29

DOORS 7pm SHOW 8pm Don't miss these very special back-to-back performances by singer / songwriter / folk activist David Huckfelt & his all-star band The Mystery Lights live + in-person at The Aster Cafe!  Featuring special guests & some of the finest musicians in the Midwest as well as new songs from his forthcoming record, Huckfelt + crew will bring their stories & songs of no-spiritual-surrender to the Aster for the first time ever!  www.davidhuckfelt.com $20 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 3

DOORS 7pm SHOW 8pm Nick Hensley is the former lead singer and co creator of The District, a regional soul & rock act from the upper Midwest, co based out of St. Paul, MN and Chicago, IL. Hensley created Love Songs For Angry Men shortly after The District called it quits in 2002. Hensley’s alias, stage name and alter ego, Love Songs For Angry Men, originated as a bad joke… similar to other shorter lived band names like Amish Puppy Mill and Billy’s Little Secret. Unfortunately, for Nick and his band members, now approaching 20 years later… THE NAME JUST WON’T GO AWAY! $12 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 4

SHOW 7pm DOORS 8pm Holidays are built on tradition, and the Jeff Arundel Holiday Variety Show is lumbering your way once again, giving you yet another shot at making this Holiday Gem one of your "must do" moments, right along with making sure you have both Gummies and Mushrooms on hand before the in-laws show up. This year's edition is a hall-of-fame proposition, featuring the return of Esti Baliz, and an All-Star cast that will be sure to thrill you, baffle you, and have you silently weeping with a joyful melancholy by the finish. Reservations are a must, costumes are invited, Bon Homie preferred, and above all, keep an open mind, because folks, there's no net under this one. Now We Go. Featuring: Molly Maher, See Change Treble Choir, The Foshays, Farm Girl, Esti beliz, and The Hammsmen! jeffarundel.com

Dec 5

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm The Farewell Season plays music made for a long drive down a back highway. The band slides effortlessly from Americana, to folk, to indie and back again. What started as friends passing time across the internet during the pandemic has turned into a band that splits time between Omaha and the Twin Cities these days. The band released their first single, “You’ll Find A Way,” in March of 2024. It has since received radio play in Minnesota, Nebraska, and Iowa, making it into regular rotation on Omaha/Council Bluffs radio station 89.7 the River for over a month. www.thefarewellseason.com $12 tickets in Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 10

DOORS 7pm SHOW 8pm Good friends and experienced tour guides Laura MacKenzie (Celtic flutes and bagpipes) and Dan Newton (accordionist extraordinaire) are steering into a rich tapestry of holiday music drawn from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, Sweden, Finland, and the beloved traditions of the season. Joining our fearless crew are Nathan Wilson (Violin) and mandolin/guitar master Richard Kriehn, bringing their warm tone and festive spirit along for the journey. Come join the rollicking good time as we weave mandolins, fiddles, cello, concertinas, Celtic flutes, and whistles into a joyful, heartwarming holiday soundscape! $20 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 11

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Anna Houston is an independent singer-songwriter based in Minneapolis. Her music is all about connection and storytelling. Whether it’s the playfulness of “THIN SKIN,” or the raw emotion in “Jones,” she writes songs to express what she’s feeling and to connect with others who might be feeling the same way. There's something so powerful about sharing a moment or emotion through a song, and she’s grateful to be able to do that through her music. linktr.ee/AnnaHouston Support from Mily: www.instagram.com/itsreallymily $20 Tickets In Advance Or Day Of Show

Dec 12

DOORS 7:30PM SHOW 8:30pm The Way Back Yard will be playing some Christmas classics and some other funky tunes! Sinatra, Clapton, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, The Eagles, The Band, maybe even Bob Dylan!  Sammie Jean Cohen brings a fresh spark of blues energy to the frozen North. With a voice full of warmth and grit, she blends classic blues influence with a modern, soulful edge. Her songs feel both timeless and alive — proof that the next generation of blues storytellers is already here. $12 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 13

DOORS 7pm SHOW 8pm Step out of the rush of the season and into a quieter winter world. Singer-songwriter and fingerstyle guitarist David Harland returns with his annual Christmas Presence concert—an intimate evening of reimagined holiday classics, original songs, spacious acoustic guitar, lush strings and vocal harmonies. Joining David this year are Cierra Alise Hill on violin and vocals, Julia Floberg on cello. www.davidharlandmusic.com $15 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 17

DOORS 7pm SHOW 8-10pm MNAKED RETURNS! (A storyteller night w/ two of MN’s best songwriters! ALL • STRIPPED • DOWN) Act One: Jesse Irwin Act Two: Hibah Hassan Curated by the good people at the Minnesota Songwriter Showcase lovesongsforangrymen.com $12 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 18

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm Aaron Tinjum formed his folk rock project, Aaron Tinjum and the Tangents, while playing the many coffeehouses, dive bars, used clothing stores and furniture shops of the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin, Texas. In 2012, they released their debut Mirrors in the Dark EP and were honored by the Austin Mayor and City Council with their own official band holiday. After a stint in Washington, D.C., Tinjum returned home to Minnesota and released his Zinger EP at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The group’s forthcoming full-length folk rock album Precious Time is Tinjum’s most ambitious and expansive entry to date, ranging from folk to blues, bluegrass to New Orleans jazz, and alternative to country. He has opened for a number of national touring acts, including Sam Amidon, James McCartney, Reeve Carney and Kawehi. https://youtu.be/R_32ynNnrUQ https://www.aarontinjum.com/ $15 Tickets in Advance or Day Of Show

Dec 19

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm It's time for the 3rd year of SWEATER WEATHER SONGS with Jack Cassidy & Monica Livorsi! Enjoy a cozy collection of tunes and don't forget to wear your sweater. Joined by Dan Carpel (bass) & Greg Schutte (drums), it's going to be the ultimate evening of winter and holiday melodies to end the 2026 holiday season. Jack Cassidy is a Minneapolis based singer-songwriter noted for his soothing vocal color and versatility in genre. Jack is involved in groups Fever Field, Minute by Minute (Vintage Cruise), and Dude Lagoon. Monica Livorsi is a Twin Cities based singer-songwriter and pianist with a love for soulful melodies and heartfelt piano. Monica released her first album All About Jane, a Jane Austen concept-album, in April 2024. Her genre has been described as Girl Power, and she has been compared to Sara Bareilles and Carrie Underwood in writing style and vocal strength. Jack: www.jackjcassidy.com Monica: www.monicalivorsi.com

Dec 26

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm Larry McDonough Quintet and Festivus and Other Twisted Holidays Returns to the Aster Café Do you need a break from politics and maybe some family members? Are you tired of the same old holiday music? Maybe you need to debrief the holidays! Come to the Annual Performance of Festivus and Other Twisted Holidays! Larry McDonough Quartet Larry McDonough, piano, vocals, and arrangements Richard Terrill, saxes and poetry Josh May, trumpet Greg Stinson, bass and arrangements Dean White, drums Families and students are welcome. larrymcdonoughjazz.homestead.com/FestivusintheMedia.html $15 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show

Feb 5, 2027

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm Night 1 of Thomas Sticha's February Residency at Aster Cafe. Opening acts TBA. Over the past two years, singer-songwriter Thomas Sticha has blazed his own trail in the Midwest country and folk music scene. A native of St. Paul, Minnesota, his style of songwriting is thoughtful and clever, often paired with beautiful storytelling and/or a sense of humor. His music draws inspiration from classic country songwriting legends (ie, John Prine, Dean Dillon) and combines them with the refreshing sounds of new country songwriters (ie, Tyler Childers, Hayes Carll, Colter Wall). “Experiencing Thomas on stage is like being part of an intimate conversation with a friend who just happens to have a guitar and an incredible voice. His vibe is infectious, and his connection with the audience is genuine. If you haven't yet, do yourself a favor and dive into his music. You won't be disappointed.” — Brandon Backstrom (Host, BOB FM Total Country Radio) For more information about Thomas Sticha, please visit thomassticha.com. $20 tickets In Advance and Day Of Show

Feb 12, 2027

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm Night 2 of Thomas Sticha's February Residency at Aster Cafe. Opening acts TBA. Over the past two years, singer-songwriter Thomas Sticha has blazed his own trail in the Midwest country and folk music scene. A native of St. Paul, Minnesota, his style of songwriting is thoughtful and clever, often paired with beautiful storytelling and/or a sense of humor. His music draws inspiration from classic country songwriting legends (ie, John Prine, Dean Dillon) and combines them with the refreshing sounds of new country songwriters (ie, Tyler Childers, Hayes Carll, Colter Wall). “Experiencing Thomas on stage is like being part of an intimate conversation with a friend who just happens to have a guitar and an incredible voice. His vibe is infectious, and his connection with the audience is genuine. If you haven't yet, do yourself a favor and dive into his music. You won't be disappointed.” — Brandon Backstrom (Host, BOB FM Total Country Radio) For more information about Thomas Sticha, please visit thomassticha.com. $20 tickets In Advance and Day Of Show

Feb 19, 2027

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm Night 3 of Thomas Sticha's February Residency at Aster Cafe. Opening acts TBA. Over the past two years, singer-songwriter Thomas Sticha has blazed his own trail in the Midwest country and folk music scene. A native of St. Paul, Minnesota, his style of songwriting is thoughtful and clever, often paired with beautiful storytelling and/or a sense of humor. His music draws inspiration from classic country songwriting legends (ie, John Prine, Dean Dillon) and combines them with the refreshing sounds of new country songwriters (ie, Tyler Childers, Hayes Carll, Colter Wall). “Experiencing Thomas on stage is like being part of an intimate conversation with a friend who just happens to have a guitar and an incredible voice. His vibe is infectious, and his connection with the audience is genuine. If you haven't yet, do yourself a favor and dive into his music. You won't be disappointed.” — Brandon Backstrom (Host, BOB FM Total Country Radio) For more information about Thomas Sticha, please visit thomassticha.com. $20 tickets In Advance and Day Of Show

Feb 26, 2027

DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm Night 4 of Thomas Sticha's February Residency at Aster Cafe. Opening acts TBA. Over the past two years, singer-songwriter Thomas Sticha has blazed his own trail in the Midwest country and folk music scene. A native of St. Paul, Minnesota, his style of songwriting is thoughtful and clever, often paired with beautiful storytelling and/or a sense of humor. His music draws inspiration from classic country songwriting legends (ie, John Prine, Dean Dillon) and combines them with the refreshing sounds of new country songwriters (ie, Tyler Childers, Hayes Carll, Colter Wall). “Experiencing Thomas on stage is like being part of an intimate conversation with a friend who just happens to have a guitar and an incredible voice. His vibe is infectious, and his connection with the audience is genuine. If you haven't yet, do yourself a favor and dive into his music. You won't be disappointed.” — Brandon Backstrom (Host, BOB FM Total Country Radio) For more information about Thomas Sticha, please visit thomassticha.com. $20 tickets In Advance and Day Of Show