The Mammals Duo

Mike Merenda & Ruth Ungar are an ethereal harmony duo and the heart of beloved Americana quintet, The Mammals. A cornerstone of the Northeast folk music community for the past 25 years, these exceptional songwriters host their own festival, The Hoot, and in 2025 issued The Mammals’ Touch Grass Vol. 1 & 2, the 19th & 20th album from their Humble Abode Music label. While The Mammals quintet is lauded for high energy, deep roots and dynamic performances, a duo concert captivates with acoustic intimacy and moving storytelling that harkens back to the great folk acts of past. Ruthy is the daughter of acclaimed fiddler, Jay Ungar, whose composition “Ashokan Farewell” served as the main theme for the Ken Burns documentary, “The Civil War.” Mike + Ruthy are regular instructors at the Milk Carton K