An alternative to mainstream country music.


The Alt-Country Show + Ambient Country podcast

Today, we're shaking things up with a special crossover episode. The Alt-Country Show and Ambient Country podcast have teamed up to introduce you to a genre that might be flying under your radar. But fear not, we've got the lowdown on all things Alt-Country and Ambient Country in today's handpicked mix, curated by the one-and-only Stelth Ulvang (Heavy Gus, The Lumineers).

Joining us on the podcast is none other than Bob Holmes, the brains behind Ambient Country and the vibes of SUSS. Together, they're here to guide you through a musical journey that's bound to uncover some hidden gems.

Our mission? To help you discover new artists that'll have you hitting repeat. Show some love by snagging an album, grabbing merch, or even catching a live show – let's support these fantastic musicians!

So kick back, relax, and soak in the good vibes. Today's mix is your ticket to uncovering fresh sounds and maybe stumbling upon your new favorite artist. Enjoy the tunes!

Recent Episodes

  • Indianna Hale

    Chat with Indianna Hale and Jason Cirimele

    Emily chats with Indianna Hale about her new album, Yesterday's Glitter, which is out now on Perpetual Doom.

  • New Music + Talk Episode

    A fantastic mix of alt-country-ish tunes, curated by an actual human! Turn up the tunes and enjoy!

  • Chat With Philip Bowen

    Philip Bowen chats with Emily about his upcoming debut album, Old Kanawha, his journey on America's Got Talent, growing his TikTok following to over 1 million followers, and the difference between the violin and the fiddle.

  • Best of Alt-Country (Americana, folk, etc.) Released Thus Far in 2023

    We're 1/2 way through 2023 and excited to share tunes from some of our favorite albums released thus far.

  • The Alt-Country Show Episode 8

    Howdy Friends!

    In the Mix: Buck Meek (click below for new music video), Jess Williamson, Earl Bowman, Keven Louis Lareau, Suzie Chism, Davoli, Wye Oak, She Returns From War, Linda Dunnavant, Ohly, Rose City Band, Angel Olsen, & More.

  • Keeping the good tunes going!

    In the mix: Willie & The Cigs, Wednesday, Kara Jackson, M. Ward, Dean Johnson, Robbie Fulks, White Rose Motor Oil, Kyle Keller, Graves, Autumn Sky, & more!

The Montvales

The Montvales perform their track "Bad Faith" LIVE at Honeytree Meadery in Nashville, Tennessee as part of The Alt-Country Show(case) during AmericanaFest 2023.

The Montvales new album, Born Strangers is due out February 2nd and is produced by Mike Eli LoPinto (guitarist for Chris Stapleton and co-writer and producer of Emily Nenni’s “On the Ranch”).

Willy Tea Taylor

Willy Tea Taylor performs his song "Young When I Left Home" LIVE at Honeytree Meadery in Nashville, Tennessee as part of The Alt-Country Show(case) during AmericanaFest 2023.

Willy Tea Taylor's new album, The Great Western Hangover is OUT NOW. Buy a copy and go see this man live if you get a chance.

Subscribe to The Alt-Country Show YouTube. We’ve got lots more videos to share from our first-ever showcase!

Listening Party: Van Plating’s Orange Blossom Child

On this episode, we are deep-diving into Van Plating's new album Orange Blossom Child.

We'll listen to the album from beginning to end and hear the background behind each song from the woman herself!

Join this very special listening party and let us know what you think!

What other albums would you like a deep-dive into?

Meet the Host

The Alt-Country Show has been around since 2007. Learn about its origins and connect with host, Emily Smith.

Alt-Country Show with Emily Smith logo

Subscribe to our newsletter