John Sieger Combo Announces Release of First Album, “Swearing in Cursive”
Veteran songwriter in a creative peak makes a sharp, lively record with latest group
John Sieger Combo. Photo courtesy of the band.
Milwaukee (June 9, 2026) — Milwaukee songwriter John Sieger and his band, The John Sieger Combo, will release its first album, “Swearing in Cursive,” on June 23. While it’s his first release with the Combo, it’s the 15th album from Sieger, one of the Midwest’s most enduring and respected songwriters.
Recording began in late 2023, but was temporarily sidelined in 2024 during Sieger’s successful treatment for throat cancer. The unwanted break didn’t interrupt his creative flow. The songs kept coming, sessions eventually resumed, and in early 2026 the record was complete. The album was made the way many lasting records are: patiently and without fuss.
Swearing In Cursive. Photo courtesy of the John Sieger Combo.
Three members of the Combo have worked closely with Sieger since the early days of his career in the 1980s, with the R&B Cadets and Semi-Twang — Mike Sieger on bass and brotherly harmonies, Bob Schneider on drums and Bob Jennings on keyboard and horns. New Combo member guitarist Robbie Gjersoe, a longtime collaborator of Sieger, is known for playing with Joe Ely, Robbie Fulks, and The Flatlanders.
Their comfort in playing together is heard throughout the record, with all songs written by Sieger. There’s no strain to impress, just the ease of a band that knows how to listen, when to lean in, and when to step out of the way.
“The joy of creating is what keeps me going,” Sieger said. “During treatment for cancer, I could barely do anything but sleep, which was rough. Thankfully that sense of joy returned stronger than ever. I’ve always said that music is a higher language. We’re all lucky to receive it, and I’m doubly lucky that I get to speak it.”
Long admired throughout Milwaukee and beyond for his wit, melodic instincts, and durable body of work, Sieger has spent decades building a catalog that includes songs recorded by Dwight Yoakam, Flaco Jimenez, The BoDeans, Jerry Harrison, and even Etta James.
“Swearing in Cursive” demonstrates a creative momentum that continues and has sharpened over time. The result is warm, slyly funny, and deeply assured. “Swearing in Cursive” is the latest from a lifelong songwriter who remains curious and creative, with nothing to prove to anyone but himself.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
