Port Musician Comes to Life in Tour Abroad

Bob Mittnacht has been priming his musicianship ever since he was a child in Manitowoc: listening to his mom on the piano, or his dad who had played drums with a touring army band during World War II.

He became a practiced musician as he played with a slew of local bands, eventually moving his way down Lake Michigan to Port Washington, where he formed his own band in 2006: Bob Mittnacht and the Crowning Glories.

Fresh off a tour in England, Mittnacht is excited about the prospects for his next album, planned to release in 2013, with some new international fans and influences.

"It’s an ongoing effort of writing music and finding audiences who enjoy it," Mittnacht said. "And that certainly was the case over there. The crowds were very appreciative, and commented on how Americana music is quite popular over there."

Drawing on connections from past shows, Mittnacht played at Blues Bar in Liverpool and The Pelton Arms in England. He said some of his next album will likely include influences from his tour.

"When I’m traveling I really enjoy finding different stories to write," Mittnacht said. "While I was there I was working on some things that will represent that experience. The culture, the different approach to life that they seem to take — it’s a much more social climate there.

"People spend a lot more time in the pubs verses going home and cutting the lawn and things like that," Mittnacht continued, laughing. "I like that, where you see families and friends out and spending time in the pubs. Now it’s not as accepted in America as it is still in England,  as a place to socialize."

But even if some of his new songs will display European character, he said the album will stay true to the band's American roots.

"It’s good American music with influences of blues, and country, and rock — all mixed together," Mittnacht said.

Mittnacht credits his midwest upbringing with providing material for his songs, which draw from many real-life experiences and people.

"Living along the lake, and living in the midwest, more of a blue -collar type of atmosphere does affect what you write and what you see," Mittnacht said. "I try to write more about life experiences, so I think people can, in some ways, relate to that. They’re not just love songs or protest songs."

Locally, Mittnacht said he enjoys playing at the  and , and appreciates the crowds that come out.

"It’s always nice when people are interested enough to listen to original music," he said.

The band's next show will be in Grafton on June 2 for the Lucky Street Music Festival.