On Thursday, October 9, Joe Hysell takes over The Zen Arcade Stage at The Hook and Ladder’s Mission Room to celebrate the release of his brand-new EP, Still Gonna Try. This is Hysell at his boldest – blending Americana grit, rock ’n’ roll fire, and songwriting that hits you right in your broken heart.
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Joe Hysell is a south Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter who stands at the crossroads of Americana’s heartfelt storytelling and rock ’n’ roll’s unrelenting edge. Raised on a musical compass that spans from the misty Blue Ridge Mountains to the wide-open heart of the Midwest to those golden California shores, Hysell writes songs that cut deep – rich with grit, fire, and unshakable honesty. With his fourth EP, Still Gonna Try, Hysell takes his most daring leaps yet. Building on his alt-country roots, he layers raw, guitar-driven textures over lyrics that feel lived-in and true. The result is a sound that’s bigger, bolder, and more urgent than anything he’s done before – a testament to an artist willing to push past comfort, chase new horizons, and sing straight from his oceanic soul.

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Joining the party:
🎸 The Ramblin’ Mercenaries – Hysell’s backing-band, led by Jake and Metal Joe Anderson, bring honky-tonk swagger and country soul that’ll have your boots tappin’ featuring the legendary Dan Neal and Jeremy Johnson
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🎶 Luke Warm and the Cool Hands – Minnesota bluegrass fixtures bring rootsy grooves with a side of sharp wit and family band charm