The Band Loula—the Georgia-bred duo of Malachi Mills and Logan Simmons—is bringing a refreshing dose of "hometown" grit to the indie-country scene. Since their debut, they have carved a niche with a sound that is as much about the red clay of Lake Lanier as it is about modern songwriting. Fresh off a stint opening for Lukas Nelson and a collaboration with Nashville legend Marcus Hummon, the pair sat down with Jason English to discuss how their upbringing in North Georgia serves as both their anchor and their compass.

For Mills and Simmons, Georgia isn’t just where they’re from; it’s the primary character in their music. They discuss the importance of writing from "true experiences" centered around rivers, creeks, and backroads. Simmons reflects on the pull of home, noting that the band "hangs their hat" on the people and landscapes that shaped them. "Georgia’s everything to us," she says, emphasizing that their authenticity is rooted in the simple, profound connections to family—and even her pet cow—back home.

The conversation dives into the future of creativity, specifically the rise of AI in music. Mills and Simmons express a deep curiosity about how the industry will change, but they remain firm in the belief that some things cannot be replicated. "The ability for the human to connect to a greater muse is gonna be hard to pin down for AI," they observe. For them, the "magic" of a song lies in that elusive human connection that digital recording and algorithms can’t quite capture.

The duo reflects on the growth they've experienced working with seasoned veterans like Marcus Hummon on their latest EP. They discuss their new track, "I Love Leavers," as a testament to their evolution. Rather than chasing a specific sound, they are focused on the "long game," prioritizing the craft of songwriting and the thrill of live performance. They view their career as a series of learning moments, staying open to new influences while keeping their roots firmly planted in the Georgia so