Country Fried Rock 1205: Tara Nevins of Donna the Buffalo Talks Tunes and Transitions

Summary

From 2012: Tara Nevins of Donna the Buffalo dives into her journey of creativity and self-discovery in this episode, kicking things off by chatting about her latest solo album, Wood and Stone. She shares how her upbringing in a musically vibrant household and her classical training on the violin shaped her path, leading her to embrace the roots of old-time fiddle music that resonate deeply within her. Tara reminisces about her time in Huntsville, Alabama, where she penned much of the album, revealing how the laid-back Southern vibe inspired her songwriting and allowed her to explore new musical avenues. With a mix of personal anecdotes and reflections on her artistic evolution, she highlights the significance of collaboration, especially her serendipitous connection with producer Larry Campbell, which helped her craft a record that celebrates her journey while keeping the fiddle close to her heart. This episode is packed with warmth, wisdom, and a whole lot of musical soul, perfect for anyone looking to vibe with the creative process.

Show Notes

Diving into the vibrant world of music and its eclectic influences, Sloane Spencer welcomes Tara Nevins, the creative force behind Donna the Buffalo, to chat about her solo project, Wood and Stone. Tara reflects on her roots, tracing her musical journey from the violin in public school to the heartfelt fiddle tunes that embody her current work. With a warm, conversational vibe, Tara shares anecdotes about her upbringing in a musically rich household, where gatherings would turn into lively jams, setting the stage for her eventual dive into the world of old-time and folk music. Throughout their chat, they explore how her time spent in Huntsville, Alabama (where she penned much of her new album) shaped her artistic perspective. In a thoughtful exchange, Tara explains how her creative process evolved after significant life changes, including her marriage ending, highlighting the introspection that fueled her songwriting. The duo dives deep into the influences of traditional and modern sounds, illustrating how Tara's unique blend of genres manifests in her latest work. As they uncover the sonic tapestry of Wood and Stone, listeners are treated to a glimpse into the heart of a musician who embraces her past while forging a new path, embodying the spirit of creativity and resilience.

Links

• REMINDER: IGNORE ALL LINKS OR EVENTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FROM 2012
• Tara Nevins of Donna the Buffalo
• You may also enjoy this conversation from 2015 with Willow Avalon's dad, Jim White
• Toss a few in our Tip Jar!

Chapters

• 00:08 - Interview with Tara Nevins
• 02:46 - The Journey into Traditional Music
• 11:21 - The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Music
• 13:24 - Transitioning to New Beginnings in Music Production
• 17:30 - Cultural Reflections on Living in Alabama

Takeaways

• Tara Nevins' journey into music was deeply influenced by her childhood experiences and family gatherings filled with music, showcasing the importance of early exposure to artistic expression.
• Living in Huntsville, Alabama, brought Tara a refreshing perspective on southern culture, highlighting the warmth and non-judgmental nature of the community, which inspired her creativity.
• The evolution of Tara's sound in her new album Wood and Stone reflects her personal growth after significant life changes, blending...