We dig into the archives this week to revisit a dynamic show featuring comedic characters and hidden treasures. The Milk Carton Kids balance their humorous banter with dark folk music, while Rose Cousins shines like gold with her distinctive voice and songwriting. Nick also chats with Roz Babener, who shares the story of Community Warehouse, a furniture bank that serves those in need in Portland, Oregon.
Since their visit to eTown, The Milk Carton Kids — Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale — have deepened their impact on American folk music with their signature blend of close harmonies, acoustic mastery, and dry humor. Their latest release, I Only See The Moon, earned a 2024 Grammy nomination and was praised for its lyrical elegance and emotional depth.
Long recognized for their reverence to folk tradition, they’ve garnered previous Grammy nods for The Ash & Clay, “The City of Our Lady,” and All The Things That I Did and All The Things That I Didn’t Do. Rolling Stone and NPR have hailed the duo’s sibling-like vocal blend and timeless songwriting.
Reflecting on their collaboration, they liken their creative bond to a lasting marriage — rooted in mutual respect and a rare, intuitive musical chemistry. Quietly, The Milk Carton Kids remain giants in the modern folk revival.
Canadian singer-songwriter Rose Cousins continues to shine as one of folk music’s most emotionally compelling voices. Her 2021 album Bravado earned a JUNO Award, adding to a growing list of honors including 11 East Coast Music Awards and a Grammy nomination.
In 2025, she returned with Conditions of Love, Vol. 1, a piano-driven album exploring the vulnerability of connection, highlighted by the standout track “I Believe in Love (and it’s very hard).”
Rose’s songs have been featured on Grey’s Anatomy and Heartland, and she’s shared stages with Patty Griffin and Mary Chapin Carpenter. Her voice continues to carry emotional truth with grace and depth.
Roz Babener is the founder of Portland’s Community Warehouse, a furniture bank that connects donated home goods to neighbors in need. Her vision was simple: turn surplus household items into meaningful support.
Under her leadership, Community Warehouse has grown into a vital Northwest resource, helping thousands each year. Roz’s compassionate approach and belief in community-powered solutions continue to inspire change — one table, one bed, one home at a time.