Latest feature • Santa Cruz
The OOO-MAUS: Something Groovy Is Washing Ashore
Surf-rock immediacy, psychedelic atmosphere and garage-rock attitude collide in a distinctly Santa Cruz band with sand in its shoes.
Bay Area • Sacramento • Northern California
The sound of a region, told honestly.
Northern Refrain is an independent publication devoted to prepared, candid conversations with the artists, venues and working musicians who give Northern California its voice.
“Admiration does not require surrendering judgment. Honest criticism begins by paying closer attention.”Editorial principle • Northern Refrain
What we cover
Not publicity. Not provocation. Conversation.
Long-form conversations
Prepared interviews about craft, influence, endurance, place and the work behind the finished recording or performance.
Scenes and working lives
Reporting on venues, teachers, independent artists, crews, record shops and the people sustaining music across the region.
Reviews with a point of view
Writing that welcomes emotional response while separating verified fact, personal interpretation and promotional claims.
The editor
Kevin Clausen
A Northern California musician, educator and writer approaching interviews from inside the realities of rehearsal, performance, teaching and working creative life.
Meet the editor