MusicTree Fest will be taking place in Manchester, Tennessee – June 6-7, 9-10. We will be publishing interviews with the performing bands as we close in on the 3rd year of this festival. View the full line-up.

Let’s start with the basics, who are you? Where are you from? What style of music do you create?

My name is Nick Lutsko, and I’m a singer-songwriter from Chattanooga, TN. I dabble in many styles. According to my business cards, I’m a ‘Folk-Funk-Blues Extraordinaire.’ Although, I sometimes venture into genres that would be easiest to describe as Halloween or circus music. I try not to write in a box.

This is MusicTree Fest’s 3rd year. Is this your first time? If yes, how did you learn about MusicTree?

This is my first time! Like many relationships of the 21st century, we met on the internet.

Was there an “ah-ha moment” in your life when you knew you would pursue music?

I’ve always loved music. I began playing guitar and writing songs in elementary school. I formed a pop-punk duo in middle school to make girls like me (it didn’t work). It wasn’t until high school when I started taking things seriously with my band Infinite Orange. We were a funk-rock trio. We performed all around the Tennessee area and opened for various national acts including Drive By Tuckers, Tea Leaf Green, and The Whigs. After two albums and over 100 shows, it was time for college. I majored in Commercial Songwriting at MTSU – and learned exactly how I didn’t want to write songs. They took away all of the depth and creativity that goes into songwriting and kept it strictly commercial. I’m now working toward pursuing music full time, not only because it’s what I love to do, but because it’s what I do best. I range from mediocre to awful at most other things.

Who (or what) motivates and inspires your writing and playing style(s)?

That is a mighty long list. I love bands that don’t limit themselves to a single genre and have defined their careers by taking chances. Artists like The Beatles, Ween, Neil Young, Beck, Tom Waits, Bob Dylan, Primus, Frank Zappa, etc.

What can we expect from your performance at MusicTree Fest 2014?

At least one song about the apocalypse. Super manly three-part harmonies. Some rockers, some rollers. A guaranteed good time for all.

Where can we connect with you online? Where can we listen or download your music?

I update Facebook.com/NickLutsko daily.

You can download my debut album, Heart of Mold, for free at nicklutsko.bandcamp.com

Do you have plans for Bonnaroo this year?

My girlfriend and I are veteran Bonnaroovians. I believe this would be my 6th year. There are a lot of good festivals this summer – we’re currently weighing our options.

Any closing thoughts? Shout outs?

I’m ready for you, MusicTree 2014!