Miles Nielsen and the Rusted HeartsAs we announced last week, Popdose has partnered with our friends at Red Pill Entertainment for a new series. The purpose is to offer a glimpse into the creative and recording process.

Miles NielsenIt’s a simple concept: Over two days, musicians will write and record four songs at Red Pill’s studio in St. Louis, with label co-owner and house producer Jacob Detering behind the boards. You’ll not only hear the songs they created, but also learn more about what went into making the music through photography, interviews and video of them working in the studio.

The first installment in the series features Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts. Hailing from Rockford, Il, best known as the home of Cheap Trick, Nielsen combines Americana with a strong ear for pop hooks and a midwestern take on L.A. harmonies.

His second album, “Presents The Rusted Hearts,” was released in December 2011 and is the follow-up to 2009’s “Miles.” At the time of his debut, Nielsen was a member of Cory Chisel’s band, the Wandering Sons, and decided to use a break to record a few of his songs. Needing a band to tour behind the album, he assembled the Rusted Hearts. The current lineup consists of Nielsen (guitar, vocals), Adam Plamann (horns, keyboard), Dan McMahon (guitar, vocals), Darren Garvey, Micky Rosenquist (drums), Dave McLellan (bass).

Miles NielsenIn tomorrow’s installment, you’ll read an interview with Nielsen about one of the songs, “Sink Or Swim,” and see video of the song’s creation. On Wednesday we’ll have the exclusive premiere of the other three songs.

Tagged in:

About the Author

Dave Lifton

The perpetually cranky Dave Lifton produces and co-hosts the Popdose Podcast and contributes an occasional column when he darn well feels like it. But mostly he eats Cheetos and yells at kids to get off his lawn, which is strange because he lives in an apartment. The guiding force behind LifStrong, he can be found on Twitter at @dslifton.

View All Articles