Hello, friends and music lovers! Y’all know I couldn’t stay away too long. =) I’m going to be sharing some music love from time to time from now on so buckle up and get ready!

Miner is an indie folk band that I stumbled upon earlier this week and immediately fell in love with. The band consists of Justin Miner (lead vocal/guitar), Kate Miner (lead vocal/ukulele/mandolin/harmonica), Jeremy Miner (lead guitar), Amanda Koosed (keys), Justin Krook (bass), Dave Schechtman (drums/percussion), as well as some rotating musicians. Their music is heartfelt and will have you tapping your toes in no time. I had the pleasure of doing a short interview with Miner so sit back and enjoy!

UG: When did you form your band and what inspired you make music together?

Miner: Miner was born from the creative burnout of songwriter Justin Miner, which led him to an extended musical hiatus late last year. After letting music sit in the background for a bit, he bought a tambourine and taught himself the banjo while immersing himself in the music of the 60s and 70s LA folk scene. He started reading Kerouac and wandered California’s central coast seeking enlightenment in the redwoods, meditated in a room filled with other musicians in Hollywood, then roamed Central and South America and listened to no music at all except the sound of the oceans and mountains. He returned home, recruited family members and several friends to sing and stomp, and thus Miner was born.

UG: What musicians inspire you?

Miner: So many, but the ones that find themselves coming back are old country like Merle Haggard and Cash — or stellar songwriters like Jackson Browne or Neil Young or Paul Simon. Not to mention….. The Beatles :)

UG: Is your new EP your first production album together? What is your EP about?

Miner: The EP is called ‘Hey Love’ and is the first release for Miner. It’s all about…. LOVE!

UG: How would you describe your music to others?

Miner: We have been using the term ‘indie folkplosion’ — as annoying as the term ‘indie’ has become and whether that’s accurate or not…it’s sure fun to say.

UG: Do you prefer cupcakes or cookies? =) (you know I had to ask)

Miner: Hmmm — cupcookies?

Hmmm…I wonder what cupcookies tastes like? Anyone want to make some? =)

Without further adieu, check out their first single, Hey Love:

If you dig the above, make sure you take advantage and download it! And lastly:

Hope you enjoyed today’s music feature! Be sure to keep an eye out for their EP release in August!

*Photo credit courtesy of Miner