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.”
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
From $8 / person
DOORS 7pm SHOW 8-10pm MNAKED RETURNS! (A storyteller night w/ two of MN’s best songwriters! ALL • STRIPPED • DOWN) Act One: Daniel Patrick Rosen EP Release Carl Franzen Act Two: Carl Franzen Quartet Feat: Jeff Ray, Ryan Inselman & tayler James Donskey Curated by the good people at the Minnesota Songwriter Showcase lovesongsforangrymen.com $12 Tickets In Advance Or Day Of Show
From $12 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30pm -10:30pm The Long Goodbyes hit a sweet spot someplace within the eclectic constellation of Power Pop, Classic Country, Americana, and Rock & Roll. TLGs will get and keep your attention via smart originals laced with gripping melodies, tight harmonies, and quirky lyrics. They also like to put their own twist on a few, nicely curated covers. By the end of the night, you’ll be echoing the words of one smitten club owner, “Best show of the year!” $12 Cover in Advance and Day Of Show
From $12 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Chris Mason is a singer, songwriter and storyteller from Minneapolis. Through the writing of melodic folk pop songs, he tells stories of love, family, heartbreak and everything in between. You will find Chris performing around the twin cities, solo or with a group of friends. All with the hope of sharing songs that others can find their story in. www.instagram.com/chrismase $15 Tickets In Advance or Day of Show
From $15 / person
DOORS 7pm SHOW 8-10pm Mississippi Hot Club showcases the distinct style of music pioneered by maestro guitarist Django Reinhardt during the 1930s-1940s in Paris, France. This hot club is an all string jazz ensemble with la pompe rhythm guitar, upright bass, and the lively improvisation of a solo guitar and violin. Staying true to the 1930s hot club sound, MHC also adds a healthy spread of modern twists. During a live set, you can expect them to play romantic ballads, American jazz standards, European folk, and science fiction theme songs. This troupe is sure to get you swinging with their virtuosic style and expert arrangements. Their new album, Swing Cities, tips its hat to the Twin Cities swing dance scene, and to the cities around the world who keep the traditions of gypsy jazz and swing alive and vibrant as ever. $17 Tickets In Advance Or Day of Show
From $17 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Frankie Torres has been performing for over 17 years. Her modern take on blues and rock have been seen on notable stages such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Lollaoalooza, The Taste of Minnesota, and NBC’s The Voice. Frankie was a contestant on season 26 of the show, where she earned a coveted “4 chair turn” with her powerful rendition of Heart’s “Magic Man”. Frankie’s unique songwriting skills, high-energy stage presence, and impressive vocal talent make her an up and coming musician to keep an eye on. www.frankietorresmusic.com $15 Tickets In Advance Or Day Of Show
From $15 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Raegan Elizabeth is a Minneapolis based country and folk artist. Taking inspiration from jazz, classic country, and American folk traditions, she thoughtfully blends genres to create a sound that's both unique and intentional. Her commitment to authenticity resonates in every performance, inviting listeners to connect with the stories she tells on a deep and personal level. bohmer.studio $15 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show
From $15 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm An accomplished harpist and vocalist, Nikki has spent the past few years diving into the world of songwriting, emerging with songs that delve into her experiences with love, loss, and motherhood. With her classical mastery of the harp, combined with a modern sense of exploration through loops and electric pedals, Lemire has garnered widespread praise and radio play, solidifying her as a rising star in the indie-folk scene. nikkilemiremusic.com
From $15 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Dark Pony is the rootsy soul-pop project of Minneapolis songwriter and producer Jonny Herchert — melodic, soulful and a little psychedelic around the edges. Joined by JT Bates, John Fields, George Scot McKelvey and special guests The Dukes of the Prairie decknight.com/dark-pony $15 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show
From $15 / person
Will King - nylon string and electric guitar is a teacher and lifelong student of flamenco and classical guitar styles. Bill Reynolds - acoustic 12 string, electric guitar and vocals has played with some of the best musicians in the Mpls music scene. Stymie Seamans- bass and vocals founding member of the Daisy Dillman band. All three live in the excelsior area and have enjoyed successful music careers in the five state area.
From $15 / person
DOORS 7pm SHOW 8 - 10pm Fiddle + guitars + sweet harmonies + a fun dive bar vibe — it all adds up to The Federales, a Minneapolis-based collaboration between seven longtime friends and players. Since 2012, fans in the Twin Cities and beyond have lined up for this band’s infectious take on old-school country music. instagram.com/thefederales open.spotify.com/artist/4y3uAafLKzASlJTcYFnU0T
From $15 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Bob Frey & the Adaptors are excited to return to the Aster Cafe for this Fall show. An October evening, on the banks of the Mississippi, in the beautiful Aster space- come check it out! Those familiar with Bob’s work recognize him as a veteran, literate songwriter who continues to add to his impressive repertoire, debuting new songs at just about every show! Whether playing solo or with his band- Bob Frey & the Adaptors- Bob delivers wry, intelligent lyrics in well crafted songs with a voice uniquely his own. Bob Frey & the Adaptors features Gavin Haskin (mandolin), Marc Conklin (electric guitar) and Corey Hess (percussion), all stellar Twin Cities musicians who create a warm and melodic base for Bob’s lyrics. Bob has released five solo records- "Tape From Minnesota" (2004), "Like A Train" (2007), "Nothing Hid" (2013), "LongShot Deal" (2017) and "Ghost" (2022), the latter receiving an 8.5/10 rating from the well-regarded Maximum Volume Music. In his review of “Ghost” for Folking.com, Bill Golembeski wrote, "Midwest singer-songwriter Bob Frey’ s new Ghost album is a sincerely whittled selection of whiskey-soaked and quite wonderful songs that bleed with Gothic folk campfire prayers." In reviewing Bob’s 2017 “Nothing Hid” album, Harry Kaplan of Twangri-La wrote, “Smart songwriting is what Bob Frey is all about. These are not songs as much as they are poems set to music. They are incredibly tangible and all of them tell a great story or require some thought or introspection.” www.bobfreymusic.com $15 Cover in Advance and Day Of Show
From $15 / person
Ryan LittleEagle is an Indigenous singer-songwriter, musician, and storyteller whose music stands at the crossroads of Native American tradition and Country/Americana songwriting. Rooted in Lakota heritage and shaped by the landscapes and communities of rural America, LittleEagle weaves ancestral memory, modern life, and timeless storytelling into songs that honor the past while speaking directly to the present. www.ryanlittleeaglemusic.com Joined by Obsidian James!
From $15 / person
DOORS 7pm SHOW 8-10pm MNAKED RETURNS! (A storyteller night w/ two of MN’s best songwriters! ALL • STRIPPED • DOWN) Act One: Sam Ryden & Guests Act Two: Sawtooth Witch Curated by the good people at the Minnesota Songwriter Showcase lovesongsforangrymen.com $12 Tickets In Advance Or Day Of Show
From $12 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Whether it’s blues, jazz, roots or even gospel, it’s always deeply soulful with the Judy Thomas Band. With a voice alternatingly sultry, smoky and sweet, Judy and her band serve up a tasty evening! You won’t want to miss this one. youtube.com/watch?v=15_nnrQ2IYI $20 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show
From $20 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm The Scarlet Goodbye is the creative collaboration between two established Minnesota musicians, Daniel Murphy and Jeff Arundel. Their partnership began by chance, with Murphy—known for his foundational roles in Soul Asylum and Golden Smog—crossing paths with the accomplished singer-songwriter-producer Arundel. This meeting sparked a new musical journey in an attic studio in St. Paul, Minnesota, where the duo began matching musical wits and blending these distinct perspectives. thescarletgoodbye.com With support from Holy Hannah! www.holyhannah.club $20 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show
From $20 / person
DOORS 7:00pm SHOW 8:00-10:00pm The Larry McDonough Quartet will perform jazz interpretations of Halloween, fantasy, and science fiction classics, such as The Twilight Zone, The Thing from Another World, The Day the Earth Stood Still, Halloween, The Exorcist, Young Frankenstein, Lift to the Scaffold, Psycho, Harry Potter, and more! Costumes recommended. Samples Young Frankenstein: youtube.com/watch?v=FbHX3fQ2jmg The Day the Earth Stood Still: youtube.com/watch?v=rYbHpXca7U0 $15 Tickets In Advance or Day Of Show
From $15 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30 - 10:30pm The Neighborhood Quartet—vibraphonist Steve Roehm, guitarist Dan Schwartz, bassist Nick Salisbury, and drummer Greg Schutte—play music is as varied as its members’ impressive résumés. As improvisers, they’re adept at navigating jazz harmony; as writers they understand the shape of folklike melodies. On their self-titled debut album, they play sticky melodies laid on top of supple funk, ideal for cruising the streets of the group’s native Twin Cities; and ethereal ballads that could soundtrack a drive through nearby prairie. Each member is an in-demand player in and beyond the Twin Cities. Their collective credits include work with the New Standards, Chastity Brown, Ryan Bingham, and Dan Navarro. Together, they play with a sympathy born both of deep listening and true friendship. theneighborhoodtrio.com $15 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show
From $15 / person
DOORS 7:30pm SHOW 8:30-10:30pm Born in Minneapolis and raised in the quiet suburbs nearby, Raymnd developed a deep love for music at a young age—something quickly noticed by those closest to him. Growing up, he was inspired by the sounds of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and other 1960s neo-psychedelic acts, as well as the pop and funk roots of fellow Minneapolis native Prince. He also drew influence from modern dream-pop artists like Beach House and Mazzy Star. As he has matured, Raymnd has crafted a sound uniquely his own—blending mellow guitar, haunting lyrics, lush synths, and hypnotic melodies that keep listeners coming back for more. @rayymnddd raymnd.com $12 tickets In Advance or Day Of Show
From $20 / person
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.
From $20 / person
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
From $15 / person
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
From $15 / person
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
From $20 / person
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
From $23 / person
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
From $20 / person
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
From $15 / person
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
From $20 / person
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
From $20 / person