FORGE NORTH

Convened amidst the outbuildings of a vibrant blueberry orchard just outside Longville, Minnesota, a musical alliance, Forge North, was formed under the cosmic elements of 2022. Now, practicing just a few miles down the same county road, at the Good Seed Nursery (Thank you for stoking the stove, Derek), the five piece folk/rock group still has blueberries in their teeth as they endeavor to marry a unique combination of musical influences for listeners to explore and reflect upon. Drawing inspiration from their natural surroundings, performing by lake, bog, barn, and brewery, the band finds itself exploring challenge, peace, and personal growth with a dynamic, engaging audience.

Charley Wagner stands at the helm of the project, fletching his personal poetry to a robust quiver of handcrafted songs, aimed at the heart. Wagner’s hearty, rough-sawn mantras, soaked in a warm, soulful grit, concede right-of-way, on occasion, for a crisp rip off the harmonica hanging around his neck, while he simultaneously fans embers to flame with a determined finger-picking style on guitar.

Calculated, standing behind any number of instruments, in his lab coat and goggles, is Tristan Schultz, an adept of musical frequencies. When his measured draw isn’t churning the atmosphere with an upright bass and bow, Schultz makes time to take the band on walks through the garden of sound, planting rows of electric bass lines and tasty licks to sear a distinctive flavor into each recipe on the menu.

Matt Gutzmann seems more serious than usual as he applies a fresh coat of lacquer to the faded art of the pedal steel guitar, asserting a sensitivity for expression which sways the hips and bear hugs the heart. Matching the subdued ride of radiant slides are the colors with which Gutzmann paints a mood on electric guitar. The injection and inflection of strings, bent and brushed, in addition to his vocal harmony, leave dispatches of unsung words that both provoke and leave one to ponder.

Steam rises from sonic stone as rich vocal harmony pours out from behind the stickered up digital piano staged beside the vintage Rhodes. From his station amidst the keys, Garrett Raddatz utilizes a holistic approach, pumping understated depth, energy, and sly, transporting ambience into the mix. Where the wheel meets the rail, drummer Grant Raddatz supplies elements of percussion and harmony to the group’s musical odyssey with a style postured to highlight and embolden the collective message of the ensemble.

Honorable mention, Kathy “Mama Wags” Wagner, can be seen smiling, floating in the breeze nearby to most Forge North performances. However, hand her a microphone, and breeze gives way to a roar. Fortunate circumstances render opportunity for Kathy’s remarkable vocal prowess to be heard shining over the flower of her special appearances with the band as she beams alongside her son, Charley Wagner.

Gratitude guides the band as it continues to grow inward and outward due in large part to the encouragement and generous support from a benevolent community of kind “art-head” music enthusiasts and seekers alike. As Charley Wagner puts it into song, we are, “Thankful to do. Thankful to have done. Thankful for the chance, to sit, stand, and run.” Thank you.