For more than 15 years, the Kitchen Dwellers have been carving out their place in the bluegrass and jam scene, evolving from Montana State University students jamming in a kitchen to a nationally recognized touring act. Their blend of bluegrass, rock, and cosmic storytelling has taken them to festival stages around the world—including Colorado, which they consider a second home. As part of our WinterWonderGrass Musician Spotlight Series, we sat down with bassist Joe Funk for the Steamboat Sound Check Podcast, presented by McCreight Progressive Dentistry, to reflect on the band’s journey, their latest album, and what makes the Colorado music scene so special.
In our conversation, Joe shared insights into Seven Devils, the band’s most recent album, which unexpectedly took on a thematic connection to Dante’s Inferno. While the original intention wasn’t to create a concept album, the songs naturally gravitated toward themes of sin, self-reflection, and redemption. One track written by Funk, “Pendulum (V),” explores gluttony and addiction replacement theory—and he gives us insight on the inspiration behind the poignant lyrics dealing with this heavy subject.
Of course, no conversation with a Kitchen Dweller would be complete without discussing their love for Colorado and WinterWonderGrass, where they’ve become festival favorites. Joe reflected on the unique energy of Colorado’s music community, where fans embrace not just the music but the artists themselves, creating a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. With Baja WonderGrass on the horizon, we had to ask—mountains or beach?
Tune in to hear Joe’s answer and more as we dive deep into the journey of the Kitchen Dwellers on the latest episode of Steamboat Sound Check.
