When the members of Marquette-based folk/Americana band Cloverland first came together, they weren’t sure exactly what their sound would become. But through collaboration, openness, and a mix of musical backgrounds, they’ve created something that defies traditional labels.
Stephanie Whiton is the group’s drummer and percussionist and also part of Cloverland’s songwriting process. "We’re pretty good at writing parts, putting them together, and reaching a final consensus. My role is more on the rhythmic and structural side, but everyone contributes.”
Sarah Mittlefehldt, who plays upright bass and sings, added her perspective: “Steph also brings incredible energy with the drums and percussion. It adds so much to everything we do.” Sarah occasionally ventures onto the banjo, an instrument she calls “a work in progress,” and collaborates on harmonies. “A lot of our songwriting recently has been wonderfully collaborative,” Sarah says. “Someone will have a seed of an idea, and then we workshop it as a band. Each of us has different strengths, and that makes the process so much fun.”
Listen to an in-studio version of "Nothing Stays the Same:"
For Kerry Yost, who plays guitar, mandolin, and sings, the group’s dynamic is about more than playing specific roles. “We’re not just bringing an instrument or a voice; it’s about sharing ideas,” she says. “Steph has thoughts on harmonies and structure, and while I don’t take solos, I might have ideas about John’s solos. It’s such an open platform where no one’s married to an idea—we try things, see what works, and celebrate when it all comes together.”
While John Gillette, Cloverland’s multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, couldn’t join the conversation, his contributions to the group are unmistakable. As Sarah describes, “John’s incredible at reading both musical and social dynamics. He has this understated way of sharing his perspective and a knack for adding just the right touch on any instrument. Plus, he’s like our snack machine—put in a quarter, and you get something tasty every time.”
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's full chat with Cloverland:
An edited version of this interview will be broadcasted as a part of Public Radio 90's The Shuffle on Sat. Jan 18th
The band’s evolution has been shaped by their diverse influences, from bluegrass and Motown to punk rock and beyond. “When we moved to Marquette, we realized one of the beautiful things about living in a small community is that genre boundaries seem less important,” Sarah reflects. “You work with the musicians around you, and their musical heritage becomes part of the group.”
Stephanie’s punk rock energy, Sarah and John’s bluegrass background, and Kerry’s soulful voice blend into a sound that’s uniquely Cloverland. “We didn’t set out to create a specific style,” Sarah adds. “It’s a natural evolution of who we are as musicians and people.”
Cloverland’s music is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity. As Kerry puts it, “The sky’s the limit for what we can do together.” With their EP released in December 2024 and live performances already lighting up Marquette, Cloverland is poised to keep pushing boundaries and winning hearts along the way.
Cloverland will host an album release performance and gathering at Peter White Public Library on Saturday, January 18th from 2 to 4 pm in the Community Room.
Cloverland can be found on Bandcamp, Facebook, and Instagram.
Listen to Cloverland online:
