Episode 37: Vivian Leva and Riley Calcagno
We sat down at AmericanaFest 2021 in Nashville with Vivian Leva and Riley Calcagno to discuss their wonderful self titled record released earlier in the year. We also talk about their upbringings immersed in the world of string band music, and how they view the creative and performing processes of the two projects they are involved in: the Vivian and Riley duo and the traditional string band The Onlies. Also: contest winner announced!
Vivian Leva & Riley Calcagno’s self-titled record is old-soul roots music to its core. Though both just out of college, the duo’s musical talents extend far beyond their years. Produced by GRAMMY-winning Cajun roots heavyweight Joel Savoy at his Louisiana studio, Vivian Leva & Riley Calcagno (released March 12, 2021 on Free Dirt Records) is not some soulless collection of songs imitating previous masters of American music. Rather, the pair has responded to one of the darkest eras in American history with an album of stunning breadth and originality.
