Twin Rivers Music Scene Podcast
The Twin Rivers Music Scene Podcast aims to provide a platform for local artists in & around New Braunfels, TX to share their journeys and the stories behind their music.
Zac Wilkerson
Singer-songwriter and producer Zac Wilkerson blends bluesy grit, country storytelling, and the timeless sound of Southern soul, creating a style that’s raw, authentic, and full of heart. From powerhouse vocals to expressive guitar work, every performance tells a story and leaves a lasting impression.
Bringing soul to the stage and honesty to every lyric, Zac is an artist who leaves it all in the music.
Tune in to this episode as we get to know the man behind the music, his journey as a songwriter and producer, and the stories behind the songs!
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Hill Country Revival: CJ Simmons and Colton Stieber
Rooted in New Braunfels, Texas, Hill Country Revival brings together the grit of Southern rock and the soul of country music for a sound that feels right at home in the Texas music scene. With five members, each bringing their own backgrounds and influences to the table, the band blends powerful energy, honest songwriting, and a no-frills approach to making music.
In this episode, we sit down with band members CJ Simmons and Colton Stieber to talk about the band's journey, musical influences, and the stories behind their sound. From lighting up live stages to sharing songs...
Sean McHargue of The Ransom Brothers
The Ransom Brothers are an Austin, Texas band bringing their own stamp to Southern country rock—and at the front of it all is lead singer Sean McHargue, whose voice and storytelling bring the Ransom Brothers’ sound to life.
Their music pulls from real-life experiences and everyday stories, blending incredible harmonies, rich instrumentation, and a Southern rock edge that makes you want to turn it all the way up. With a sound that’s as soulful as it is unapologetic, they know how to turn those stories into songs that connect with people and hit just a little...
Mason Lively
Mason lively is a singer-songwriter born in Victoria and raised in the small South Texas community of Inez. He picked up a guitar as a teenager and fell hard for songwriting, eventually developing a sound that blends Texas Country, Americana, Southern rock, and good old-fashioned storytelling.
He’s not only an incredible songwriter, but a hell of a performer and a road-tested musician who knows how to make every song feel authentic and lived-in. From his debut record Stronger Ties to building a catalog that has racked up millions of streams and releasing his latest 11-track album, Th...
Trent Cowie
In this episode of Twin Rivers Music Scene, we sit down with Magnolia, Texas singer-songwriter Trent Cowie, an artist bringing country music a little extra rock edge, undeniable energy, and plenty of honest storytelling.
After years of working in the oil fields of West Texas while playing music on the side, Trent eventually took the leap to pursue music full-time—and it’s safe to say he’s been making the most of it. Known for his high-energy performances and ability to command a room, Trent’s music is the kind you don’t just listen to—you experien...
David Miner
David Miner has built his sound around the idea that a great country song doesn’t have to be complicated—it just has to be honest, tell a story, and sound just as good in a dancehall as it does in a listening room.
He draws inspiration from the greats of traditional country while bringing his own perspective, grit, and unmistakable voice to the genre. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, he found his way to Texas, where he’s spent years cutting his teeth in honky-tonks and dancehalls and carving out a place for himself in the Texas...
Zoe Allan
In this episode, we’re joined by one of New Braunfels’ own singer-songwriters, Zoe Allan. Blending influences from blues, rock, and Americana, Zoe has carved out a sound that’s soulful, authentic, and unmistakably her own. Her music is rooted in emotional honesty, heartfelt storytelling, and powerful performances that draw you in.
Music has been part of Zoe’s life from the very beginning, with her love for singing first taking shape in the church pews where she grew up. Today, you can find her performing across Texas—and if you’re lucky, you might even spot her four-legged...
Caleb Allemand & KC Powell
In this episode, we're joined by two guys who know the ins and outs of life on the road better than just about anyone.
Caleb Allemand, a Lubbock native and singer-songwriter, spent years as the tour manager for Silverada (formerly Mike and the Moonpies) before stepping away from full-time touring to focus on family after becoming a dad. KC Powell stepped into the role as the band's current tour manager, and while he's now keeping the show on the road, the two still cross paths and work together from time to time.
You may have...
Taylor Graves
Taylor Graves is an Austin, Texas-based singer-songwriter whose music blends modern country, Americana, southern rock, soul, and grunge into a sound that’s uniquely her own. With powerful vocals and honest storytelling, she delivers performances that are equal parts gritty, soulful, and unforgettable.
Her songwriting is deeply personal, drawing inspiration from life experiences, vivid storytelling, and the people she meets along the way. Her career has included an appearance on American Idol, where she earned a Golden Ticket, as well as opportunities connected to The Voice and America’s Got Talent.
With compelling original music and...
Dusty Vaquero Days: Kalyn Beasley
We had the chance to sit down with Kalyn Beasley at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about his latest album, Ranchin’ Rich, life on the road, and the ever-changing landscape of independent music. We talked about the process of writing, recording, and promoting an album, as well as the realities of touring and connecting with fans across the country.
Kalyn also shared his perspective on why so many people are reconnecting with Western culture and how that influence is finding its way into today's music. From comparing the Texas music scene to those in Wyoming and Mo...
Dusty Vaquero Days: Zack McGinn
We had the chance to sit down with Zack McGinn at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about his band Dolly Shine and how both the group and the broader music scene have evolved since those early days. We talked about longevity in the industry, what it takes to build a lasting career, and the lessons learned from years of making music and connecting with fans.
Zack also shared what it’s like bringing family on the road, balancing life as a musician and a father, and why events like Dusty Vaquero Days are so important to ar...
Dusty Vaquero Days: Margo Cilker & Forrest VanTuyl
We had the chance to sit down with Margo Cilker and Forrest VanTuyl at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about how they met and the creative partnership that’s grown between them over time. We talked about how their sound has evolved both together and individually, and how that growth has shaped the music they’re making today.
They also opened up about navigating expectations around maintaining a certain “voice” as artists, their songwriting process, and how they approach writing from an honest place. We wrapped the conversation with a deeper discussion on what it means to emoti...
Dusty Vaquero Days: Ross Cooper
We had the chance to sit down with Ross Cooper at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about his roots in rodeo, how those experiences shaped his approach to music, and the storytelling that continues to drive his songwriting today. We also talked about the making of his live album recorded at Hotel Turkey, capturing the raw energy and authenticity of his sound in a place that carries its own history and character.
Ross shared where he draws inspiration for his writing, from life on the road to the people and places that shape his perspective, along...
Dusty Vaquero Days: Dave Stamey
We had the honor of sitting down with Dave Stamey at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about storytelling, songwriting, and the traditions that continue to inspire his music. We talked about his iconic song “Vaquero Song,” the making of his latest album, and the creative process behind turning real-life experiences into memorable songs.
Dave also shared his thoughts on what makes a great audience, the connection between performer and crowd, and why certain moments on stage stay with an artist long after the show is over. He is filled with wisdom, stories, and profound insights as one...
Dusty Vaquero Days: The Moonhowlers
We had the opportunity to sit down with The Moonhowlers at Dusty Vaquero Days to talk about the formation of the new trio, made up of Hayden Redwine, Zach McGuinn, and Ross Cooper. We discussed how the band came together, the unique strengths and influences each member brings to the group, their collaborative songwriting process, and the chemistry that has quickly made this project something special.
The three also shared their vision for The Moonhowlers and what they hope to contribute to the Texas and Americana music scene as they continue to carve out their own sound...
Dusty Vaquero Days: Olivia Harms
We had the chance to sit down with Olivia Harms at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about her growing fanbase, the role Western culture plays in both her life and music, and what it takes to navigate the industry as a true one-woman operation. From booking shows and handling her own PR to managing social media and writing songs, Olivia shared the hard work and determination that fuel her career behind the scenes.
We also talked about staying authentic to her Western roots, connecting with fans across the country, and the passion that continues to drive...
Dusty Vaquero Days: Sterling Drake
We had the chance to sit down with Sterling Drake at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about his latest album, life on the road, and how the Western lifestyle continues to shape his music and storytelling. From the experiences that inspire his songs to the realities of touring and chasing a dream, Sterling shared insights into the journey behind his sound and the authentic perspective that makes his music resonate with so many listeners.Â
Find Sterling Online:Â
Website | sterlingdrakemusic.com
Instagram | @sterlingxdrake
Facebook | facebook.com/sterlingxdrake
Dusty Vaquero Days: Brennan Scott Greene
We had the opportunity to sit down with Brennan Scott Greene at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about his unique sound, his love for the Western lifestyle, and, of course, his famous didgeridoo. From blending traditional influences into his music to embracing the spirit of the American West, Brennan shared stories about his musical journey, life on the road, and his songwriting.Â
Find Brennan Scott Greene Online:Â
Instagram | @brennanscottgreene
Dusty Vaquero Days: Danno Simpson & David Miner
We had the chance to sit down with Danno Simpson and David Miner at Dusty Vaquero Days for a conversation about music, songwriting, the Colorado and Texas music scenes, years of friendship, and even a few stories about car troubles between these two awesome guys. It was a fun and honest conversation filled with great stories, plenty of laughs, and a look at the experiences that have shaped their journeys both on and off the stage.Â
Find Danno Simpson Online:Â
Website | www.dannosimpson.com
Instagram | @dannosimpsonmusic
Facebook | facebook.com/dannosimpsonmusicÂ
F...
Remi Mae
Remi Mae is a talented singer-songwriter who first made her mark in the Texas country scene with honest songwriting and a sound rooted in country storytelling. However, she’s turned the page and embraced a bold new direction. Trading in her traditional Texas country sound for a rock-and-roll edge, Remi Mae delivers powerhouse vocals, raw emotion, and an unapologetic energy that showcases her evolution as an artist. Her incredible voice effortlessly moves from soulful and heartfelt to bold and commanding, making every performance impossible to ignore.
Her latest album, Catch 22, captures the highs, lows, and lessons that co...
Bramble
Bramble (Dillon Bramble) is a tour manager who has spent years on the road with countless artists, surviving late nights, long drives, questionable gas station meals, and enough backstage stories to probably require legal approval before sharing. He’s a professional chaos coordinator and a man who’s definitely been around the block a few times — probably at 3 AM looking for a tour bus that may or may not have left him behind.
To know him is to love him. Known for his outgoing personality, wild sense of humor, and deep appreciation for music culture, he’s built st...
Ian Kocourek
Ian Kocourek is a rising Texas singer-songwriter from San Marcos known for blending heartfelt storytelling with a modern country and Americana sound. Drawing inspiration from artists like John Mayer, Parker McCollum, and Tom Petty, Ian’s music combines honest lyrics, laid-back melodies, and emotional depth that connect with listeners across Texas and beyond. His growing catalog includes tracks like “Long Lost Friend,” “Coastal Queen,” and “Losing You Again,” showcasing his ability to balance raw vulnerability with catchy, memorable songwriting. With performances across the Texas music scene and an expanding fanbase, he is quickly establishing himself as an artist to watch. Â
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No Guest, Just Chaos: Twin Rivers Recap
This week, Madison and Reid are behind the mic for a chaotic recap of the year so far. With no guest and no script, they're catching up on everything that has happened so far!
They discuss live shows, favorite music moments, behind-the-scenes festival chaos, merch mishaps, almost getting scammed, and even accidentally setting off the alarm at Gruene Hall.
This episode includes a mix of music talk, business insights, and plenty of “how did this even happen?” stories. Join us for a relaxed catch-up episode before we dive back into interviews and the festival season.
A.B. Hill & Gus Percy
A.B. Hill is making a significant impact across the Hill Country with a dynamic blend of traditional country, outlaw grit, and authentic storytelling. With roots in West Texas and a growing presence in New Braunfels, he has become a well-known name on stages throughout Central Texas. His songs are shaped by real-life experiences, reflecting a deep respect for classic country while incorporating elements from his punk-rock beginnings.
Accompanied by his guitarist, Gus Percy, A.B. delivers performances that resonate with fans of genuine Texas music, characterized by intensity, sincerity, and a strong connection to audiences who...
Cody Bolden
Cody Bolden is a talented singer-songwriter out of Georgia who is making a name for himself across the Texas music scene. Known for his powerful voice, honest songwriting, and the kind of stage presence that keeps crowds locked in from the first note to the last, he brings a natural energy to every performance.
Drawing inspiration from real-life experiences, his music captures the highs, the lows, and everything in between—delivered with a level of honesty and raw emotion that resonates deeply with listeners. Whether performing a stripped-down acoustic set or fronting a full band, Cody has a...
Henry Merchant
Henry Merchant is a singer-songwriter celebrated for blending heartfelt storytelling with the grit and soul of Red Dirt and traditional country music. His lyrics, rooted in real-life experiences, combine with melodies that are perfect for long drives and late nights, creating an authenticity that resonates with listeners. With a warm stage presence and a sound that pays homage to classic country while still feeling fresh and personal, this artist is quickly establishing himself as a rising star in the Texas music scene.
Find Henry Merchant Online:
Instagram | @henrymerchantmusicÂ
Facebook | facebook.com/henry.merchant.942
TikTok | @ h...
Logan Ryan
Logan Ryan is quickly making a name in the Texas country and Americana scene with high-energy performances and authentic storytelling that brings raw, honest country music back to the heart of the dancehall. Raised on classic country and honky-tonk culture, his sound is rooted in rich narratives and genuine emotion.
On stage, he truly embodies the spirit and soul of the Lone Star State, standing out as one of the most exciting emerging acts in the Red Dirt scene. Logan recently released his album Kamikaze, which made it into the top 100 on iTunes and Apple Music charts...
Pug Johnson
Pug Johnson is a Texas-born singer-songwriter whose sound stretches far beyond traditional country music. He was raised on the outskirts of Beaumont and grew up immersed in the multicultural musical landscape of Southeast Texas, where Cajun rhythms, Tex-Mex, honky-tonk, and Gulf Coast R&B swirl together. His musical journey began early—picking up guitar as a teenager and later turning a lifetime of poetic observation into songs that celebrate the humor and grit of everyday life. With a career built on the road, he’s shared stages with artists like Steve Earle, Midland, and Hayes Carll, and has crafted albu...
Joel Hofmann
Joel Hofmann is a Texas musician, songwriter, and venue owner whose roots run deep in the state’s live music culture. As the owner of the historic Riley’s Tavern in Hunter, Texas — the first bar to obtain a beer license in Texas after the prohibition — Joel has played a key role in preserving one of Texas music’s most iconic stages while continuing to champion songwriters and working musicians. As the frontman of the Joel Hofmann Band, he has released multiple records and built a reputation for vivid, story-driven songwriting that reflects the landscapes and characters of the Texas and...
Kevin Geil of Two Tons of Steel
Kevin Geil is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and creative force behind Two Tons of Steel, a San Antonio-based band that has been a cornerstone of Texas music for more than 3 decades. Blending rockabilly, country, punk, and Americana, Kevin helped redefine the Texas roots sound while building one of the most loyal fan bases in the region. From a Billboard cover story to international tours and iconic residencies like “Two Ton Tuesday” at Gruene Hall, Kevin Geil’s career is a testament to independent artistry, powerful live performance, and the enduring spirit of Texas music.
Find Two Tons of Ste...
Rowdy Brooks of Campfire Kingdom
Rowdy Brooks hails from New Braunfels, Texas, and serves as the lead vocalist and guitarist for Campfire Kingdom, a band that fuses alternative country, Texas red dirt, and rock ’n’ roll. Their sound appeals to honky-tonk crowds and dive bars throughout the region, drawing inspiration from artists like Cross Canadian Ragweed, William Clark Green, and American Aquarium. The music is authentic and rooted in tradition, offering listeners songs that embody genuine emotion and honest lyrics, all seamlessly woven together to create an inviting experience.
Find Rowdy Brooks & Campfire Kingdom Online:
Websites | rowdybrooks.com...
Bottomland
Cannon Brand and Justin Gates, also known as Bottomland, are a Texas country duo consisting of two talented songwriters and performers who blend classic outlaw country with red dirt grit and a Southern edge. Centered around tight harmonies, driving guitars, and honest lyrics, they keep their sound firmly rooted in today's Texas country scene.Â
On stage, they bring incredible energy, naturally connecting with audiences whether they're performing in a packed dancehall, at a festival, or in an intimate acoustic setting. Their chemistry as a duo is the heart of their sound, delivering performances that feel less like a...
One Year of Twin Rivers - Stats, Stories & What’s Next
In this special anniversary episode of Twin Rivers Music Scene, we’re celebrating one full year of conversations, growth, and community. We take a moment to look back on how this podcast began, why we felt called to create it, and the mission that continues to guide every episode.
We share meaningful milestones and listener stats from our first year, reflect on the lessons we’ve learned along the way, and flip the mic inward by interviewing each other as co-hosts—opening up about the journey, challenges, and moments that shaped Twin Rivers into what it is today...
Ep. 32 - Michael Moad
Michael Moad is a dynamic and versatile bass player known for his deep groove, tasteful musicianship, and undeniable stage presence. His style, rooted in rock, blues, and Americana, is also influenced by funk, soul, and modern alternative music, allowing him to provide a rich, rhythmic foundation for every project he undertakes.
Over the years, he has performed with a wide range of artists, from emerging singer-songwriters to established regional bands. He has built a reputation as a reliable and creative musician who consistently delivers tone, clarity, and emotional depth.
With a commitment to musical excellence...
Ep. 31 - Kayla Jane (The Queen of Bad Decisions)
Kayla Jane is a Texas-born singer-songwriter from New Braunfels, blending soulful vocals with heartfelt storytelling rooted in the Hill Country spirit. Her music captures the warmth of small-town life and the raw honesty of personal experience, weaving country, Americana, and a touch of blues into an authentic sound that’s all her own. From local honky-tonks to regional festivals, her growing fanbase connects with her down-to-earth charm and the honesty in every song she sings.
This episode is sponsored by Broken Record Rival. Whether you’re bouncing back from a long week, a tough workout, a hangover, or j...
Ep. 30 - Matt Kirk & The GĂĽeyfarers with Matt Kirk & Jimmy Hartman
Matt Kirk & The Güeyfarers are based in New Braunfels, Texas, and are carving their own path through the Texas music scene with a sound that’s equal parts grit, groove, and heart. They blend red dirt roots with a modern country edge, delivering songs that hit hard and remain authentic—telling stories of small towns, open roads, and everything in between.
Matt Kirk and The GĂĽeyfarers are led by frontman Matt Kirk, whose storytelling and soulful vocals anchor every track. He is joined by Jimmy Hartman, who plays bass and provides harmony vocals, bringing high-energy perfor...
Ep. 29 - Josh Abbott
We sat down with the legendary Josh Abbott during Gruene Music & Wine Fest for a bus-side chat we’ll never forget. Big thanks to Josh for the time and good laughs — with special pop-ins from Adam Hill (Fiddle) and Jimmy Hartman (Bass)!
Josh Abbott is a Texas-born singer-songwriter and the driving force behind the Josh Abbott Band, known for blending heartfelt storytelling with Texas country grit. With a career spanning over a decade, Josh has released multiple albums, toured extensively across the U.S., and earned a loyal fan base for his authentic lyrics, infectious energy, and unfo...
Ep. 28 - Palmer Anthony
Palmer Anthony is a Texas-born singer-songwriter whose sound combines the grit of Red Dirt music with modern country soul. Known for his storytelling ability and heartfelt voice, he is quickly establishing himself in the Texas music scene. From high-energy anthems to raw, reflective ballads, Palmer brings authenticity to every stage and every song — connecting with fans through honest lyrics, southern charm, and a passion for live performance that leaves a lasting impression.
You can listen to Episode 28 of The Twin Rivers Music Scene Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and iHeart Radio! Link in bio.
...Ep. 27 - Graycie York
Graycie York is one of Texas's fastest-rising voices in the music scene, making significant waves across the state with her powerful voice and heartfelt songwriting. Blending traditional country roots with modern influences, she has earned a reputation for creating music that is both genuine and soulful. Her breakout single “Patsy Kind of Night” quickly caught the attention of country fans, followed by songs like “Forever” that showcase her honest storytelling and emotional depth.
Graycie is known for her smooth, expressive vocals and down-to-earth charm, and has shared the stage with some of Texas' most respected artists while carving...
Ep. 26 - Matt Castillo
Matt Castillo is a rising star in the Texas country music scene, known for his smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and undeniable stage presence. He has been establishing his place in the scene with a sound that blends traditional country roots with a modern flair. Matt’s music resonates with the essence of the Texas experience—faith, family, love, and the open road—and has earned him recognition as one of the genre's most promising voices. With multiple charting singles, energetic live shows, and a growing fan base, he has quickly become one of the standout artists in Texas country. Whethe...