Rough Magic

Michael Derning and Mia Arends first sat down together to play music 45 years ago, resulting in a musical partnership devoted to singing quality songs regardless of genre. Their collaboration continues with the follow up to their previous album "Cover Art”.

"Rough Magic" was recorded in Seattle, WA, and re-imagines the music they heard from childhood to the present, mostly interpreted in fingerstyle guitar and voice. Along with 6 originals are songs by Paul Simon, Biff Rose, Lennon McCartney, Incredible String Band, Michael Peter Smith, Blind Willie McTell, Duke Ellington, and more.

Michael Derning also contributed mandolin and slide, Mia arranged harmonies, and they looked to talented local musicians to provide compelling backup, Michael Connolly, upright bass, tabla, snare, violin, piano and percussion, Brad Gibson, drums, and Colin Isler, cello. Mia and Michael each contributed 2 original songs and Michael co-wrote 2 more with the gifted Seattle singer songwriter Tamara Lewis. Styles encompass jazz, blues, folk and pop.