Jackson Pines Keeps the New Jersey Folk Tradition Alive

Send us a textIn this episode, Mike welcomes guests Joe Makoviecki and James Black from the band Jackson Pines. Join us as we dive into their music, their roots in Jackson, New Jersey, and their recent projects.Episode Highlights:- Joe and James reminisce about their hangout and recording space in Jackson, New Jersey—a lean-to structure that has seen the creation of songs and videos.- The unique vibe of Jackson Pines is admired, and the conversation explores how different parts of New Jersey can feel like separate worlds.- Learn about Joe's role as a music teacher, freelance writer, and songwriter for a Chicago-based company, and James' work in his family's welding business and with a sand company.- Discover how they balance their day jobs with their musical pursuits and the hustles they've developed along the way.- Joe's father, a music teacher and horn player, influenced his musical upbringing, while James discovered music through drums and later learned guitar.- Explore the vibrant music scene in their area and how it shaped their early experiences of playing shows at a young age.In this episode, Jackson Pines discusses their latest music projects:- Dive into their special record, featuring seven authentic folk songs from the New Jersey Pine Barons, as they express their excitement for keeping the folk song tradition alive.- Although they primarily perform original songs live, they give special attention to their folk record at select gigs, staying true to the chords, harmony, and words of the traditional songs.- Explore their new single, "Wheel"The band members also reflect on the challenges faced during the pandemic, delaying the release of new music. They emphasize their commitment to creating songs they strongly believe in and that feel good to perform. Discover how James' instinctual bass playing combined with Joe's vocals creates the unique sound of Jackson Pines.Join us as we delve into pivotal moments in their music career:- The confidence gained from performing at the "Sea Hear Now" festival, enabling them to explore different styles beyond original songs.- Recording their first album with producer Simon Felice in the Catskills, an experience that solidified their belief in the band's potential.- Playing a benefit concert with musician Pete Seeger, further fueling their determination to continue making music and reinforcing their passion for the craft.Tune in to this episode of "Greetings to the Garden State" to gain insights into the music, milestones, and unwavering determination of Jackson Pines as they navigate the music industry and honor their New Jersey roots.jacksonpines.com@jacksonpinesThank you to our sponsors:UCS Advisors: ucsgreatness.comBoxcar: boxcar.com (When you download the app use code "GS25" for $25 off your first ride)Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.comShanghai Jazz: shanghaijazz.comMayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendarNJspots: NJspots.comOperation K9 Beethoven: operationk9beethoven.comContact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.comSupport the show