The Troubadour proudly brought to you by Hennessey Cigar Co.  You can find a clickable link in the show notes on the blog page for this episode at www.thetroubadourpodcast.com.  By using code TTP15 at checkout you’ll get 15% off of your first order of their fine hand rolled cigars. CLICK HERE AND USE CODE: TTP15 Initially I didn’t know much about today’s guest, but, when I saw not only was he a fellow podcaster, but has also played at Austin’s legendary Saxon Pub, I said, “Hell yeah we’ll have you on the show!” Mike Donello had an interesting path to becoming a South Austin musician. He was born in New York and grew up in Florida playing music before making his way to Texas. As you’ll hear in this episode, he and a couple other Austin musicians found themselves playing shows together quite often so they formed a band they dubbed The New Essentials.  The New Essentials, made up of several accomplished musicians, have a pretty neat live show in which the members often switch instruments depending on what song they are playing.  Little touches like that are always a cool thing for audiences to see. We also talk to Mike quite a bit about the Saxon Pub which is probably one of my favorite music venues of all time.  I think you’ll understand why I like it so much after hearing what Mike has to say about performing there as well as just catching live shows there. You can pick up a copy of his new record, Mike Donello and the New Essentials by visiting www.mikedonello.com where you’ll also find links to his podcast: “Chilling on the Southside”. So here comes Episode #136 of The Troubadour featuring our new buddy, Mike Donello. How YOU can support the podcast! If you would like to support the podcast AND ALSO earn some free swag in the process  CLICK HERE to sign up as a Gold, Silver or Bronze supporter! You can listen to our wonderful podcast by clicking on any of the following links: The Troubadour Podcast Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Podbean