5 Questions with
Corey Hart

On the third Wednesday of every month, Communion gathers local and touring artists together at The Frequency to present a showcase of the flourishing music scenes in cities across the nation. Along with an impressive repertoire of touring artists including Johnny Stimson (Dallas, TX) and Sturgill Simpson (Jackson, KY), Wisconsin acts this week include Hugh Bob & the Hustle and Corey Hart.

Corey Hart is a name that has been around the local Madison scene for years. Winning various awards for his voice and written music at the MAMAs in 2012, he is no stranger to the local Madison music scene. I was eager to ask Corey about what this local music scene in Madison is like from an artist’s perspective, and this was his take on it.

Can you talk a little bit about the Madison music scene as you see it in your eyes?
“The scene, like Madison, is small but very diverse. I can really only speak to the folky singer/songwriter scene because that’s what I’m familiar with. The quality of the material that Madison’s singer/songwriters is very high. I think that the general public is finally starting to catch onto that. The populous needs to embrace its local musicians to keep the scene healthy.”

Which local artists have you really enjoyed working with and which would you like to work with in the future?
“It gets a bit incestuous, doesn’t it? I don’t think that’s a bad thing, though. Everyone is so supportive of each other, it’s great. I currently play with my band, Whitney Mann’s band, and occasionally with Anna Laube. I have also done things with PHOX, Count This Penny, and Dan Walkner [Wrenclaw, Clovis Man]. I really enjoy writing guitar parts and singing harmonies, so I would like to work with more singer/songwriters in that regard. I also think it would be fun to collaborate with Aaron Williams and the Hoodoo. The list goes on…”

What’s your favorite venue in Madison and why?
“I have a few. To play, I love the Shitty Barn! Technically not in Madison. It is like a home away from home for me. The Majestic Theatre is awesome to play a show in. Everyone there is very professional and nice. Plus, I love looking out onto that room from the stage. High Noon Saloon is always a great room, too. The vibe there is a perfect mix of professional and down-home. I’ve spent many hours in that room. To see a show, Capitol Theater is kind to the eyes and ears. I think it’s the best sounding room in town. The Shitty Barn is easily the most fun place to see a show.”

How do you think local artists differ from larger names connected to big labels?
“That’s a tricky question. I am not very close with anyone on a major label. Also, not all major labels treat artists the same. I would assume that there is far more pressure to put out albums and tour the hell out if them if you are on a major label. The beauty of the local scene is that it’s a community you can be a part of. It’s more tangible. On a related note, I think the caliber of a number local artists is on par with that of many who are on major labels.”

What’s your favorite restaurant in Madison, and where do you think the best cheese curds are?
“I love Ha Long Bay and Forequarter. My family eats at Graze a lot as well. I don’t eat cheese curds. Please don’t hate me.”