Writing Gunpowder meant sitting inside hurt without asking it to behave well. I wasn’t trying to be fair or generous to myself; I was trying to be exact. The song came from anger sharpened by loss, from the urge to make something loud simply to prove it existed. I trusted the feeling even while knowing it distorted the story. That tension mattered—the honesty of the hurt alongside the knowledge that hurt makes a narrator (hi, it's me) unreliable, reactive, and unattractive. Writing it felt like admitting both things at once: that the pain was real, and that it doesn't make me right in reaction to that feeling. The song holds that contradiction without resolving it.
I had such a great time playing at Songwriters at the Stack in Bridgeport—it was one of those nights that just felt right from start to finish. Sharing the stage with Erik Rabasca, Charlotte Roth, Zach Andersen, and Eddie Seville made it even more special. Each of them brought their own style, stories, and spirit, and the energy in the room was incredible. There’s something magical about being surrounded by people who love songwriting as much as you do—listening, laughing, and cheering each other on. The crowd was warm and engaged, the sound was great, and every song felt alive in its own way. I left feeling inspired, grateful, and reminded of how good it feels to connect through music. Nights like that make all the travel and rehearsals worth it—just friends, stories, and songs filling the air in the best way possible.
It’s been such a busy and beautiful season of music, traveling all over the state to share songs and laughter in some truly special places. From the electric energy of Café Nine to the warm, intimate vibe of The Buttonwood Tree, and the open-air magic of Aussakita Acres Farm, every show has felt like its own little world. I’ve been so grateful to spend these nights surrounded by friends, old and new—playing music, telling stories, and just soaking in the joy of being together. Each stop has its own heartbeat, its own crowd, its own kind of magic. I’ve learned that no matter the venue—whether it’s a cozy stage under twinkling lights or a field echoing with laughter and cowbells—it’s the people who make it all worthwhile. Every song turns into a conversation, every story into a shared smile. It’s been a whirlwind of connection, creativity, and gratitude, and I wouldn’t trade a minute of it. Playing across Connecticut has reminded me why I fell in love with performing in the first place: the simple, powerful joy of making music and memories with people who show up to listen and share the moment together.
As a musician, one of the hardest parts of the lifestyle is that you rarely get the chance to see your friends play. So often, your gigs overlap, your rehearsals take up the same nights, or you’re simply too wiped out from your own shows to make it across town. It can feel like you live parallel lives—always rooting for each other from afar but seldom sharing the same room. That’s why the Troubadour series feels so special. Not only does it offer the chance to connect with new audiences and introduce your songs to fresh ears, it also creates space to celebrate and soak in the artistry of the people you admire most.
Last night was one of those rare, magical times where community and music blended perfectly. I’m so grateful to Erik Rabasca for curating and hosting such an inspired evening. Huge thanks as well to Seth Adam, Shannon McMahon, and Kevin Boots—not just for sharing the stage, but for filling it with laughter, stories, harmonies, and yes, playing kazoos with me. Nights like this remind me why we do what we do: for connection, for joy, and for the gift of experiencing live music together.
I'm so happy to introduce my latest folk music project, "Small, Beautiful," a heartfelt ode to the charm and intimacy of Connecticut. This album captures the state's delicate balance of natural beauty and rich history, celebrating its rolling hills, quaint towns, and serene coastline. Each song is inspired by the everyday wonders of life in this small yet remarkable state, creating a musical journey through its unique landscapes and timeless character.
"Small, Beautiful" reflects the quiet magic that makes Connecticut special, from the vibrant hues of autumn leaves to the soft lapping of waves along the Long Island Sound. Through gentle melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the album offers a tribute to the state's graceful charm, inviting listeners to connect with the beauty found in simplicity and the stories woven into its soil.
IT IS DONE!
Stephen Peter Rodgers in the Tiny Bunker Studio made it happen. Single release on October 16, full length in December. Release party to be announced.

"Thank You" EP is out now, streaming on all services and you can download on bandcamp!