Lafontaine, a Detroit-born, Duluth-raised musician, blends rock and metal in his gripping narrative-driven music. Overcoming a challenging upbringing, he crafts poignant, instrumental storytelling. His re-released LP M.M.I. and upcoming EP “Thorn, Sliver, Smolder” showcase his journey from adversity to artistry.

1. What’s the best show you’ve ever played?

“I once booked a gig at the Cabooze for a Tattoo Contest. I had written some fresh music and recorded it on a cassette tape. I didn’t have a band at the time and just wanted to see if I could pull off a live performance. About 100 people showed up to the event. During my set, I was just having fun and focusing on the music, not paying much attention to the crowd. When I finished the last song and looked up to say goodbye, I was surprised to see that the entire crowd, including the bartenders, were watching the stage. As soon as the crowd realized I was done, they burst into applause. I thanked the crowd and walked off the stage. Several friends rushed up to me with excitement and told me how good the performance was. This was unexpected and it stunned me.”

2. Can you recount an onstage experience that was unexpectedly risky or exhilarating?

As a manager of the Cabooze and The Joint, I once had an encounter with Gov’t Mule. While I was turning off the lights to prepare the venue for the show, Warren Haynes signaled me to walk behind him to turn off the next set of lights. However, as soon as I stepped behind him, the band started their sound check, which was incredibly loud and almost blew my ear out. I was surprised that they could hear what they were playing amidst the noise. I planned to ask Warren about it after the show, but unfortunately, they had already moved on to the next gig.. 

3. Who would you be most amazed to see in the front row at one of your shows?

“I am a Gov’t Mule fan. I would be very excited if Matt Abts or Warren Haynes were at one of my shows. Honestly, it’s a difficult question to answer because if I saw any of my influencers at a show, I would consider my career a success.”  

4. How do you handle the pressures of performance, and have your strategies evolved over time?

“I’ve never really had a reason to be nervous about performing on stage, even when I am performing alone. I guess it has never been a big enough show to get nervous about. Also, I prepare pretty heavily for a show so that I am ready for anything that comes my way.”

5. Do you have any rituals before you hit the stage? If so, what are they?

Maybe have a bear and relax. I do like to mingle with the crowd a bit and talk about the nothings of life to get my mind calm.