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Indie Music Stories
Arizona Music Scene Realities: Touring, Ownership, and the DIY Music Career
A grounded look at the Arizona music scene, touring life, music rights, and how independent musicians survive in today’s chaotic industry.
James Mattison
Mar 139 min read
The Monastery Mesa Open Mic: How Host Michael Swain Builds Community With Fast Changeovers, Great Gear, and Smart “Backing Track” Rules
Inside The Monastery’s Mesa open mic: hosting tactics, backline essentials, and how to balance backing tracks vs karaoke while protecting the vibe. The Monastery
James Mattison
Feb 214 min read
Old Town Love Arizona Duo: How Two Players Built a “Full Band” Sound With Guitar, Cajón, and Intentional Groove
Old Town Love proves two players can sound like a full band—cajón engineering, orchestral guitar, and a presence-first ethos built in Arizona. Old Town Love Arizona duo.
James Mattison
Feb 213 min read
Annie Moscow “Land of Dreams”: From Classical Piano to Arizona Storytelling Stages and DIY Freedom
Annie Moscow’s journey from classical piano to DIY songwriting shows how Arizona’s community stages can fuel growth, craft, and lasting connection.
James Mattison
Feb 213 min read
The Steady Kind “Moments In Between”: Sean Royer on Perseverance, Collaboration, and Arizona’s Indie Music Rooms
Sean Royer and The Steady Kind share why perseverance wins—release the songs, build the room, and let Arizona’s live scene carry the chorus forward. The Steady Kind Moments In Between.
James Mattison
Feb 214 min read
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