Though singer/songwriter Dan Lotti recently left Folly Beach, South Carolina, for the mountains of western North Carolina, his former homestead on the beach will always hold a special place in his heart. While in Folly Beach, Lotti – along with Mike Sivilli and Steven Sandifer – founded Dangermuffin, a band that, frankly, could not have originated anywhere other than surfside.
Dangermuffin’s sound – an incredible blending of bluegrass, folk rock, spacey jams, and reggae – is a modern day folk surf soundtrack. I was hooked after taking a first listen Moonscapes, the band’s 2010 release. I am now spinning Songs For The Universe, the band’s newest record, virtually nonstop. Each time I listen, I am overwhelmed by an easy-hearted mellowness. I can’t help it. Lotti and his mates have a knack for writing music that resonates with positivity and good vibes. It never fails that, after listening to Dangermuffin, I just feel better.
I recently caught up with Dan Lotti while he was in Folly Beach to chat up Dangermuffin’s hometown. Based on his descriptions, I have a trip scheduled for the not too distant future.
BRO – Favorite local band?
DL – There is so much great music going on here in Folly Beach and we only have a handful of bars. I am a big fan of The Travelin’ Kine and Weigh Station.
BRO – Must visit spot for an out of towner?
DL – That would have to be Bert’s Market. It has a great late night menu and the deli station makes sandwiches twenty-four hours a day. They have a fantastic growler station and all sorts of beach munchies. Bert’s is the heart of Folly Beach.
BRO – Favorite place to see a band?
DL – My favorite local venue is the Surf Bar. That’s where we got our start as a band. There was a beautiful vibe every Sunday evening with bluegrass, surf videos, and woodstoves.
BRO – Favorite eatery?
DL – I love Lost Dog Café on Folly Beach. It is always packed on weekends and the experience is always memorable.
BRO – Cool historical tidbit?
DL – Folly Beach was almost named Gershwin Isle. Porgy and Bess was written here, so when you hear “Summertime, and the livin’ is easy,” that there’s Folly Beach!
It looks like Dangermuffin will be taking the balance of 2014 off, but January finds them all over the Southeast, with dates in North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, and Georgia already slated. For more information on those dates, others on the schedule, or how to get your hands on Songs For The Universe, fly over to www.dangermuffinmusic.com.
Also be sure to check out “Little Douglas,” a track from the new record that includes Keller Williams on bass, on this month’s Trail Mix.
