Raymond Little has been a figure in the Upper Peninsula music scene, particularly through his involvement with the Lost Dog Records collective. Recently, Little reflected on the label's evolution since its inception in 2012, describing it not as a rigid organization, but as a fluid, ever-changing group of friends. While collaborators like Tyler Dettloff moved away and eventually returned, the core mission of mutual support remains the heartbeat of the Marquette sound.
Little’s latest creative chapter centers on his new project, Big Air. After a brief stint living downstate in 2024, Little returned to the U.P. with a renewed appreciation for the local community. This project features a tight-knit core (including drummer Mikey and multi-instrumentalists Andrew Blanchard and Jaden Harvey) that Little credits with pulling him out of a creative funk.
While his previous work with The Big Hustle involved massive seven-piece arrangements, Big Air leans into a "less is more" philosophy. Despite the smaller roster, the group utilizes an array of instruments (some called "toys") and electronic samples to create a sound that is both simpler and more experimental than his earlier folk-leaning work.
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Little about his latest musical activities:
On Saturday, March 21st, Little brings Big Air to Blackrocks Brewery for a curated showcase. The lineup reflects the interconnected nature of the local scene:
- Bimbo: The art-rock sibling duo of Gretchen and Dawson McKenzie.
- The Christmas Subcommittee: A new Marquette act featuring members of Big Air.
The event marks a bit of an experiment for the venue, as they will be implementing a cover charge specifically designed to ensure the performing artists are fairly compensated. Little notes that the brewery has become an ideal home for the local rock scene, with management embracing the louder, high-energy atmosphere that brings the community together.
Looking ahead through the rest of the year, Little’s goals are grounded in locality rather than grand touring ambitions. His focus is on releasing the new Big Air record on vinyl and continuing to foster the Marquette ecosystem. For Little, creating beauty within his own community is the most effective way to counteract the weight of the world, one show at a time.
Find more of Little's music at his Bandcamp page.
The preceding interview was broadcast during The Shuffle on Saturday, March 21st, 2026.
