Chrvns and Tim Mechling sit down with singer-songwriter Tad Kroening for a deep dive into his musical journey. They discuss Tad and Tim’s shared experiences in Bellingham and Snohomish, Tad’s passion for open mics, and the art of hosting. Tad shares insights into his songwriting process, his Leonard Cohen influence, and his debut album Baby Birch. Plus, he treats us to a live performance of an unreleased song.

Listen now: Baby Birch

Tad Kroening comes from Sultan, Washington, but has been a Bellingham musician since 2008.

He’s been a mainstay at the Honey Moon open mic, and has played infrequently in songwriters circles, house shows, or whatever he can get tricked into.

He’s been playing the same Kalamazoo guitar since 2005(ish) and has been developing many songs for as many years. He cherishes the songwriting of Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits, Townes Van Zandt, Jackson C. Frank, Elvis Costello, and various other sad sacks and nerds.

He released his first official E.P., “Baby Birch,” in July of 2023, and is slowly assembling his next release.

He’s worked with Hannah Wyatt, Tim Mechling, Pete Ruble, Scot Casey, K.A. Ambrose and various Bellingham artists over his time here.

“Tad Kroening has a beautiful new album of his gentle singer-songwriter material, “Baby Birch.” His delicately fingerpicked guitar and melancholy vocals are lightly augmented by strings and harmony vocals.” -Jesse Stanton, Cascadia Daily

“I’ve been a friend and fan of Tad Kroening ever since we first met at the Honey Moon listening room. His debut album, “Baby Birch,” spent years percolating at the weekly Wednesday open mic, but it’s finally out and the entire thing is equal parts crushing and enchanting.” - Pace Rubadeau, Cascaida Daily

Bandcamp: https://tadkroening.bandcamp.com/album/baby-birch

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/superfancydumdum/

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