John White w/ Tom Hanson

Art in the cafe...

Dottie and Josie Brand (Two Peas in a Pod)


"Summer Magic"


June 2026



We are self-taught artists who create work inspired by healing, nature, travel, and personal experiences. Growing up, art became a way for us to process emotions, express ourselves, and create spaces that felt meaningful and comforting. Our first “gallery” was our college apartment, which we transformed with our own artwork and nature-inspired design and the power of the feminine. Sharing our space and work with others encouraged us to continue creating and exploring art more seriously. Inspired by our Latin culture, color, emotion, and everyday moments, our work reflects themes of connection, growth,...
[ more ]
Saturday, October 13, 2007

Singer of long-running New Zealand Poprock phenomenon M--star, John White will be releasing a compilation CD of his two solo albums "Balloon Adventure"(2000) and "Mogwash"(2003) for American release on Last Visible Dog Records this October.

In the last few years, John has somehow become the generic team-up fairytale song whisperer for U.S. acts touring to New Zealand such as Crooked Fingers, the Mountain Goats and Cat Power. This October, John's taking a turn to visit the places where so much of his favorite music has come from, and is delighted to be playing several shows with Madison-based Tom Hanson.

M--star releases: "M--star"(1998, Arclife/Flying In), "Steamer EP"(2000, Arclife), "Porcupine"(2001, Yelloweye), "Shut the Squizwot Factories Down" (2006, Archhill)

Tom Hanson, Madison-based singer, guitarist and dream-pop folkie, is pleased to join his friend, New Zealand---s John White at several stops on the artist---s US tour in October. A musical recluse, Tom has been lured back to the stage in part by the prospect of playing with John, whose singular fairytale folk has been a source of inspiration.

A veteran of Madison---s rock scene and original member of local legends, the Gomers, Tom has been crafting moody, melodic acoustic music since the early 90---s. His mellow vocals, intricate finger-picked guitar and hauntingly beautiful arrangements have led to comparisons with Nick Drake, early Elliott Smith, Mark Kozelek and Donovan.

Tom---s first self-released CD, ---Wake of the Moon--- (2001) received numerous critical accolades, 5-star reviews, and generated considerable internet buzz. More than 1000 copies of the CD have since been distributed to listeners worldwide. Tom---s long-awaited (and aptly titled) follow-up, ---Everything Takes Forever--- is due out in mid-October.

Releases: ---Wake of the Moon--- (2001, Organ Donor Music), ---Everything Takes Forever--- (2007, Organ Donor Music)

Music