What's Hapnyn San Diego: Recent Episodes
Hapnyn LLC
Join host Laura Jane as she interviews the doers and the shakers that make San Diego's live entertainment scene one of the most bustling and unique in the country. Every week you'll be entertained by great local artists – some new, some seasoned veterans – as they share their story and insights into what makes San Diego the Finest City in the world!
For more than 20 years, Nathan James has been entertaining audiences as a soloist, in partnership with Ben Hernandez, as a member of the James Harman Band, and with his own band, The Rhythm Scratchers. For this episode, he sits down to discuss with LJ his influences, his handmade instruments, and gives a demonstration of his unique washboard guitars.
- 00:46 - What I Believe
- 08:28 - In the News Today
- 28:00 - Bonsai Sequoia
Links * Nathan James Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Laura Chavez is one of the finest guitar players on the planet, and we're lucky to have her call San Diego her home. We managed to somehow lure her away from her busy schedule long enough to talk with LJ about her collaborations with the late Candye Kane, her current project with Nikki Hill, and the dozens of other artists she records and tours with around San Diego and the rest of the world.
Track listing * 02:00 - Tell the Next World * 09:00 - Walkin', Talkin' Haunted House * 23:57 - How Long Can This Go On
Links * Laura Chavez Facebook * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Classical pianist Jeeyoon Kim delights audiences with her sensitive artistry, colorful musical expression, and insightful commentary from the stage. In this episode, she joins Laura Jane to discuss what music means to her, why she loves performing, and the inspiration behind her new album, "Over. Above. Beyond."
Track listing * 00:44 - Golliwogg's Cakewalk * 11:29 - Forgotten Melodies * 25:21 - 10 More Minutes
Links * Jeeyoon Kim Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Originally from Calgary, Daring Greatly headed south seeking bigger audiences & warmer temperatures, eventually landing in Fallbrook, CA. When not on tour, they can be found playing at a number of San Diego venues or festivals. Brandon, Patrick, Dail, and Liam join LJ to discuss their music, travels, self-produced events, and their new video production company. Track listing * 5:51 - Black and White * 16:22 - Cold Dark Night * 28:15 - Ohio
Links * Daring Greatly Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
The Anodynes have been rocking San Diego to its very soul since 2016. In this episode, they join LJ in the studio to premiere three tracks from their new EP, "Catching Waves". And don't miss their CD release party at The Casbah on November 24th! Track listing * 1:55 - Catching Waves * 14:35 - Make It Rain * 27:50 - Sit Back And Let The Universe Carry You
Links * The Anodynes Facebook Page * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
We recorded more Robin Henkel than we could fit in two episodes, but it was all too good to edit out. So here is the extended conclusion of our interview featuring MORE songs, MORE guitars, MORE stories, and MORE Robin!
Track listing * 00:54 - Little Cars * 10:20 - Slippery Like A Watermelon Seed (Live at Thunderbird) * 31:30 - Mortero Road (Live at Thunderbird) * 37:05 - The Busker's Bounce (Live at Thunderbird) * 45:19 - E Minor 6 * 48:50 - Mississippi Medley (Live at Thunderbird) * 59:00 - Take Me For A Ride In Your Mustang Rita (Live at Thunderbird)
Links * Robin Henkel Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Robin Henkel has been a staple of the San Diego blues scene for over 30 years, captivating audiences as a singer, guitar player, historian, and storyteller. For this episode, we decided to capture that by recording Robin LIVE in the studio with his eclectic assortment of guitars and stories. It was just too much fun to contain in a single episode, so be sure to catch part two next week!
Track listing * 05:33 - One Meat Ball (Live at Thunderbird) * 26:28 - Walking My Troubles Away (Live at Thunderbird)
Links * Robin Henkel Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Three-time San Diego Music Award winner Low Volts is giving the music world a much needed shock to the heart. With his fuzzed-out, one-man, dirty blues-rock 'n' soul performances, Tim Lowman creates a thick and swampy sound equivalent to the force of a four-piece band. Having performed to a sold-out crowd at The Ryman, nationally touring with Brian Setzer, and landing songs in the smash comedy Super Troopers 2 alongside Eagles of Death Metal, Low Volts is on a steady path of rock and roll righteousness.
Track listing * 01:13 - Wild and Free * 15:55 - Trouble Don't Come Alone * 30:23 - Bullet Holes
Links * Low Volts Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Blue Largo is a traditional 1940s/50s era blues band, founded in 1999 by guitarist Eric Lieberman and vocalist Alicia Aragon. Their fourth album, Before The Devil Steals Your Soul, is scheduled for release on October 19, 2018.
In this episode, Eric & Alicia join LJ in the studio to discuss their influences, the songwriting process, and share a few tracks from the new album.
Track listing * 01:08 - Before The Devil Steals Your Soul * 12:47 - Wash Away * 25:34 - Monrovia
Links * Blue Largo Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Earlier this year, several of San Diego's most talented young blues & rock musicians gathered at Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio for a live recording session. Appearing in this episode are Reagan Williams, Noah Kapchinske, Justice Guevera, Boyce Hartsell, Sadie Holdaway, Anthony Cullins, JP Smith, Hunter Arnold, and Benji Davis.
Track listing * 01:49 - Elvis' Sister * 07:11 - So Sad * 18:35 - Daddy Yar * 22:03 - Empty Arms
Links * Reagan Williams Facebook * Noah Kapchinske Facebook * Justice Guevera Facebook * Boyce Hartsell Facebook * Anthony Cullins Website * JP Smith Facebook * Benji Davis Facebook * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
The Sleepwalkers (aka Los Sleepwalkers), are a San Diego-based band that specializes in original music, with styles ranging from Rockabilly, Cumbias, and their own brand of down-home Rock & Roll. They are known for their lively and high energy performances that pack in live music venues throughout Southern California.
Track listing * 01:30 - Digame * 13:01 - Anna Lee * 26:16 - Trouble
Links * The Sleepwalkers Facebook * Haunted Halloween Cruise * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Grandpa Adam Gimbel of the band Geezer drops by the studio to promote their highly anticipated appearance at the upcoming 37th Annual Adams Avenue Street Fair. In the ensuing confusion, he also winds up talking about his grandson's band, Rookie Card, how much better things were in the old days, and some upcoming trends like hashtags and vinyl records.
Track listing * 02:02 - We Ain't No Weezer Tribute Band * 10:08 - Everybody's On The Phone * 25:11 - Good Riddance
Links * Geezer Website * Adams Avenue Street Fair Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Jake Najor is a Grammy-nominated drummer and a San Diego native. He has played with such artists as Big Daddy Kane, Jason Mraz, Aloe Blacc, TV on the Radio, Karl Denson, Raphael Saadiq, Joss Stone, Percee P, Redman, Kelis, and far too many more to mention. His latest project, Jake Najor & The Moment of Truth just recorded their first album, In The Cut.
Track listing * 02:37 - High Costa Living * 19:28 - Guantanamo Baywatch * 32:48 - Another Saturday
Links * Jake Najor & The Moment of Truth Facebook * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
The SOULcial Workers is an non-profit organization dedicated to the Social Education & Emotional Development of youth in vulnerable communities. Founded by Dairrick Khalil Hodges, they utilize theatre & the performing arts as a means of preventing youth suicide, as well as raising community consciousness around trauma & relationships.
In this very special episode, LJ talks with Dairrick about his experience as a foster youth, his inspiration for starting the SOULcial Workers, programs they sponsor (Camp AART), and how you can become involved.
Track listing * 00:40 - SEEDs
Links * The SOULcial Workers Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
The Band of Gringos (B.o.G) are a rockin' power-trio hailing from Ocean Beach, CA. Performing their original music with a classic vibe, they know how to drive a crowd into a frenzy, whether it's on a big stage or in a local dive. Guitarist Cody Sherman, drummer Spence Noble, and bassist Kasey Dring join LJ in the studio to talk about anything, and giggle at everything else.
Track listing * 06:06 - I'm Movin' On * 14:40 - Fly On * 32:00 - Passion
Links * Band of Gringos Facebook * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Kenneth Rexrode is working to make San Diego a mecca for music and live entertainment. Through RexRode Productions and The Six String Society, he is producing world-class shows, combining the most talented musicians & performers with some of the classiest venues in San Diego (and beyond).
Links * RexRode Productions * Six String Society * San Diego Piano Project * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
The Lyrical Groove combines a musical blend of jazz, hip-hop, blues, R&B, and gospel with cohesively crafted spoken word to create a message of social consciousness and spiritual awareness that will speak to your soul. In this episode, LJ talks with founder and vocalist Kendrick Dial.
Track listing * 01:21 - Wake Up * 21:09 - Truth Be Told * 37:40 - Strong Woman
Links * The Lyrical Groove Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Dave Gonzalez is a founding member of The Paladins, whose music graciously bookends this podcast every week. For this episode (recorded in January 2018), Dave sat down with LJ to discuss his latest recording – a country duet album with Susanna Van Tassel – called Think We're Gonna Be Alright. It also features a very special guest appearance by the one and only, Jack Tempchin.
Track listing * 01:05 - I Got You, You Got Me * 10:08 - Sky Turn Blue * 22:54 - Dreams of You * 32:24 - Think We're Gonna Be Alright
Links * Think We're Gonna Be Alright Facebook * Lux Records Store * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Tim Pyles is a San Diego music legend. From his weekly radio show "Loudspeaker" on 91X to his shows at the Casbah & The Merrow, Tim has been helping to grow the local music scene for more than 30 years.
In this episode, he talks with LJ about the history of the San Diego music scene, the early beginnings of Loudspeaker, some of the best venues to catch local acts, and many talented bands you can find playing around San Diego.
Links * 91X Loudspeaker * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Mimi Zulu is an American singer, lyricist, & poet. Interweaving soul, blues, jazz, & trip-hop with spoken word, she creates flowing melodies of encouragement, hope, and empowerment. In this episode, she talks with LJ about the creative process that goes into her music & live performances.
Track listing * 01:19 - A Connection * 12:07 - Look Around * 29:10 - Over and Over
Links * Mimi Zulu Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Vokab Kompany has been thrilling audiences with their genre-defying collection of sound comprised of vocalists Rob Hurt & Burke Baby for over a decade. With live accompaniments by their five-piece band, they use heavy synths, guitars, saxophone, bass & drums to create an innovative sound that blankets audiences and leaves them in a musical stupor.
Founder & vocalist Rob Hurt joins LJ in the studio to discuss their latest hit PoliTricks, as well as give a preview of an unreleased track, Like That.
Track listing * 06:05 - PoliTricks * 25:24 - Like That
Links * Vokab Kompany Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Israel Maldonado has been performing his unique blend of Latin and modern music in and around San Diego for over 20 years. In this episode, he discusses how he came to fall in love with Brazilian music and learned to combine its infectious rhythms with his classical guitar and drum line percussion training.
Track listing * 00:53 - Que Me Esta Pasando * 10:16 - T.J. Samba * 22:14 - Era Yo
Links * Israel Maldonado Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Lindsay White is a San Diego-based singer & songwriter whose talents have garnered her national attention and numerous awards, including the 2018 SDMA for Best Singer/Songwriter. In this episode, she talks with LJ about the trials and tribulations of life, love, and loss, and shares those emotions as songs from her latest album, Lights Out. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll call your therapist. But mostly, you will fall in love with Lindsay and her music.
Track listing * 00:56 - Surrogate * 18:23 - Not A Boy * 32:12 - Lights Out
Links * Lindsay White Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
XIV is an amazing group of artists from San Diego, carefully crafting a unique blend of musical styles ranging from trip-hop to electronica to downtempo. Sultry vocals by Kelly Samuels and Shani Ayanna weave seamlessly into a rich tapestry of hypnotic melodies, throbbing beats and deep, driving bass lines. While XIV's music could be compared to classic UK acts like Massive Attack, Tricky, and Portishead, this San Diego group is creating a signature sound of their own.
Track listing * 00:48 - Breakdown * 18:36 - Swept Away * 33:01 - The Instrument
Links * XIV Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Ariel Levine is a San Diego transplant hailing from New York, where he was the frontman for the fabled hi-fi punk band, KiNDERGARTEN. Eschewing the pressures of center stage in exchange for sunny beaches, Ariel is quickly making a name for himself here as a composer, producer, tribute performer, session & live guitarist/bassist, as well as performing with his own band, Mechanical Royalty. His new album, Let The Machine Live, garnered him a SDMA nomination for Best Album, as well as Song of the Year in 2018.
Track listing * 00:51 - Sunshine Part 2: On My Color TV * 13:55 - Wake Up, Look Down * 30:10 - (At The Bottom Of The) Sunset Strip
Links * Ariel Levine Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Nicholas Anthony Costa is a musician and composer from San Diego where he has been playing guitar for over 13 years. Currently the guitarist for The Sure Fire Soul Ensemble and Jake Najor & The Moment of Truth, he recently released 2 singles off his solo studio project called MY MYND, and has a debut EP expected later this summer. Known for his technical and innovative style on the guitar, Nicholas brings an energetic performance to the stage leaving audiences wanting more.
Track listing * 01:18 - Darling * 14:20 - In My Mynd * 31:41 - Back Pocket
Links * Nick Costa Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
A Ship in the Woods Music & Art Festival is unlike anything else happening in SoCal. Besides a diverse lineup of contemporary, independent, and emerging musicians, there will be immersive outdoor contemporary art installations with a focus on social practice, ecology, and experimentation.
In this episode, Laura Jane talks with co-executive directory Lianne Thompson Mueller about the festival and the organization.
WSOHOIDPS (A SHIP IN THE WOODS) is a non-profit incubator working to engage the community through elevated dialogues in art, science, music, new media and culture based in Southern California. Through diverse curated events, residency programs, and interdisciplinary collaborations, WSOHOIDPS has become a thriving community of innovative thinkers and supporters addressing social and environmental issues that influence our ever-evolving experience of the world.
Links * WSOHOIDPS Music & Art Festival * WSOHOIDPS Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Miki Vale is a solo Hip Hop and Soul artist from Southern California, as well as one half of the rap duo 50|50.
Track listing * 00:50 - Worth It * 12:56 - Love * 25:28 - E.P.I.C.
Links * Miki Vale Facebook * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Shane Hall is a versatile, multi-faceted Rock Blues and acoustic artist whose guitar work and various musical roles are shaking up Southern California's blues and folk rock scene with great force. Shane ensures that his live music experience is unforgettable for fans and music lovers wherever he goes. San Diegans can find him playing live with his band The Diabolicals, working musical compositions, playing special events, performing in the street, MCing, hosting events, and much more. Shane's passion for playing is unparalleled and remarkable.
Track listing * 01:00 - Shelf Life * 13:58 - Ghost * 26:37 - Embers
Links * Shane Hall Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
OrchidxMantis is a four person group straight out of North Park in San Diego whose hybrid stylings exist at the intersection of operatic vocals and jungle drum n’ bass within the genres of 3rd stream and avant pop. Fans might associate OrchidxMantis with the street corner of 30th & Thorn Streets, the important stepping off point where the group originated from.
Track listing * 01:06 - DayxDay * 23:23 - You Said You Loved Me, But You Didn't Really Mean It * 36:09 - Exomoon
Links * OrchidxMantis Facebook * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Karina Frost & The Banduvloons emulate the 'looniness' of life through a musical fusion of soul and folk music. The Banduvloons are typically comprised of a 7 piece band of local San Diego artists and boldly led by front woman and songwriter Karina Frost. This week's guests strive to leave an impression on every audience member and listener at their shows and through their songs, whether they are playing at a cramped local bar or on a main stage like the Belly Up Tavern or the House of Blues. Be prepared to be impressed with the Banduvloons' emphasis on showmanship and love! Track listing * 01:09 - Lifted * 15:32 - Honey * 30:48 - Midnight Sunshine
Links * Karina Frost & The Banduvloons Website * Taco Fest 2018 * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Taryn Donath has been captivating audiences with her tenacious piano stylings and smooth, sultry voice for over 19 years. She is joined in the studio by drummer Marty Dodson, who have been performing as a duo, weaving together a unique blend of jazz, funk, and soul that lights up the stage and thrills audiences everywhere. Track listing * 01:04 - Miss You So Much * 12:46 - Gardenia * 32:41 - That's All
Links * Taryn Donath Website * Taco Fest 2018 * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Soulful vocalist Whitney Shay joins LJ this week to discuss her preparation for this year's Gator by the Bay, as well as other performances. She has been nominated by the San Diego Music Awards for Best Blues Artist, Best Live Performer, and Best Blues Album. Join us as we learn more about this musical force in the San Diego blues & soul scene. 01:01 - Ain’t No Weak Woman
12:06 - Blues Down Home
23:03 - Love's Creeping Up On You (feat. Igor Prado)
Links * Whitney Shay Website
* Hapnyn
* Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Gator By The Bay is celebrating its 17th year as the largest, most-authentic Louisiana-themed music and food festival west of the bayou. Located at Spanish Landing Park on beautiful San Diego Bay, across from the airport, it features four days of live music with over 100 musical acts and special performances on seven stages, southern cuisine including 10,000 pounds of crawfish trucked from Louisiana, non-stop live music, dancing, and family fun.
LJ sits down with the passionate and entertaining Peter Oliver, founder & organizer of Gator By The Bay, to discuss the rich history of the festival and what people can expect from this year's lineup.
Track listing * 01:36 - Horace Trahan * 06:24 - Keith Frank * 12:54 - Earl Thomas * 16:39 - Shana Morrison * 26:45 - Mr. Sipp * 30:25 - Carolyn Wonderland * 34:02 - Sonny Landreth
Links * Gator By The Bay Website * Bon Temps Social Club * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Singer, songwriter, and cultural hybrid Gabriela Aparicio joins Laura Jane this week to discuss her neo-Latin, soul, and jazz influenced vocal stylings and percussive grooves. Whether playing solo or performing with her band La Buena Onda, Gaby's bi-lingual music is an ongoing experiment with material and presentation.
Track listing * 01:09 - You Captivate Me * 11:41 - Tango * 22:58 - Tangled Heart * 29:32 - Corazon
Links * Gabriela Aparicio Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
North Park native and San Diego legend Rob Deez joins us this week to not only explore his music and comedy, but to introduce us to a new song that earned him the title of international recording artist. With five albums already to his credit, Rob Deez is always ready to provide San Diego and the rest of the world with new music and comedy. Whether he's collaborating or performing alone, Rob Deez always hits the mark.
Track listing * 01:01 - Bartender * 12:57 - She * 29:49 - Senior Love
Links * Rob Deez Facebook * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
This week on What's Hapnyn San Diego, Laura Jane discovers the depths of human emotion with the incredible Jillian Calkins. The jazz crooner grew up on Broadway songs and operas, including her favorite, Italian arias. Starting at the age of five, Jillian has devoted her life to music and still follows her passions to this day. Whether it's solo or with her band J'Adore, Jillian can be seen all over San Diego delivering her eclectic array of music.
Track listing * 00:58 - L'Hiver * 08:34 - Always Come Back to Me * 15:11 - I'll Stay
Links * Jillian Calkins Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Cathryn Beeks is known as a singer, songwriter, promoter, radio host, retail specialist, and cinematographer – just to name a few of her many titles. Since her 1999 arrival in San Diego she has been constantly changing the local music and art scene, and helping countless artists showcase their own works.
Laura Jane talks with Cathryn about her many accomplishments, from her numerous musical endeavors to her charitable work with the San Diego Heritage Foundation.
Track listing * 01:00 - How Much Longer * 10:26 - Business as Usual * 24:49 - Crazy Eyes
Links * Cathryn Beeks Website * The Heritage Ranch * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
What's Hapnyn San Diego is taking a week off. Join us on March 25th for our next exciting episode. Be safe, kiddies!
The Tighten Ups is a 7-piece soul, funk, blues, rock band fronted by singer (and podcast host) Laura Jane Willcock. Together for more than a decade, they set themselves apart by lacing their rock and roll with syncopated bursts of high voltage brass and soulful doses of rhythm and blues. Nominated in 2009 for a San Diego Music Award as Best Cover/Tribute Band, they are known as Southern California's favorite "Rock and Soul" party band.
In this episode, LJ turns the tables by inviting her bandmates Gerry Wasson and Meri Claire into the studio to discuss the their new live album, the song writing process, how the band formed, and a few other surprises along the way. Tighten it up!
Track listing * 01:50 - Real Rat Problem * 20:12 - Love Nearly Broke Me * 34:25 - Mercy
Links * The Tighten Ups Website * Lux Records Store * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
The psychedelic, progressive, experimental rock group known as AJ Froman began as a recording project between Albert Bowman and John Joyce, eventually culminating in the current lineup including Sarah Norwood, Jeff Shaefer, and Patrick DeWit. Hailing from Ocean Beach, they can be found playing all over the local San Diego area and beyond.
LJ is joined in the studio by founder John Joyce and newest member Patrick DeWit as they discuss the influential nature of their fans, unique aspects of their stage performances, and partying with celebrities.
Track listing * 01:11 - GOO * 19:12 - Stranger's Nod
Links * AJ Froman Website * AJ Froman and The Routine performing Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Sue Palmer, widely known internationally as The Queen of Boogie Woogie, has been a staple of San Diego's blues, swing, and jazz scenes for over 30 years. Best known for her beehive-wearing stint with blues diva Candye Kane in the '90's, Sue has been making her mark in the last decade with her high energy band, the Motel Swing Orchestra, and her flashy boogie woogie stylings. In this episode, she talks with LJ about her early days of performing, the formation of her band Tobacco Road, her many experiences with Candye Kane, and her recent travels around the globe. As a bonus, you'll get to listen to a sampling of her work, including a wonderfully charismatic performance by the late Preston Coleman. Tune in! Track listing * 00:57 - Babylon Boogie * 11:58 - Open The Door, Richard * 20:57 - Swango * 33:23 - Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere
Links * Sue Palmer Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Since their formation in 2015, San Diego band Imagery Machine has set the local music scene on fire. Their distinct style of female-fronted psychedelic rock is unlike anything else around, seamlessly blending classic new wave with modern and indie rock to create an intoxicating, dynamic sound. Fronted by the sultry voice of Jennie Lynn, the band features accomplished musicians James Howard on lead guitar, bassist Will Parsons, and drummer Tyler Shimkus. Imagery Machine’s most recent EP, Skydriver, is nominated for Best Indie/Alternative Album at the 2018 San Diego Music Awards. The band’s musical energy and passion shines through their immersive live performances, which feature kaleidoscopic lighting, frenzied stage presences, and an imaginative use of glitter. For this podcast, LJ is joined in the studio by singer Jennie Lynn and guitarist James Howard. They discuss how the band got started, what exactly is the Monthly Machine, and where the best dive bars in San Diego can be found. Track listing * 01:12 - Skydriver * 10:52 - She's Gone * 24:27 - Comfortable
Links * Imagery Machine Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
All over California, people have been talking about 25-year-old powerhouse vocalist Casey Hensley, who is taking the blues world by storm. Influenced by such greats as Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Janis Joplin, and Candye Kane, she surrounds herself with only the best musicians – which probably is why her band has been nominated as 2018 Artist of the Year by the San Diego Music Awards. She is joined in the studio by drummer Evan Caleb Yearsley, where they talk with LJ about growing up in musical households, recent successes, the future, and their mysterious connection with Neil Young's latest record. Don't miss it! Track listing * 00:50 - Big Mama's Coming Home * 14:40 - Too Tired * 29:19 - Put Your Lovin' Where It Belongs
Links * Casey Hensley Website * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music for the What's Hapnyn San Diego Podcast generously provided by The Paladins.
Transplanted from the east coast, this destined-to-be-a-Californian had her apprenticeship in New England where she learned from such places as the Berklee College of Music, the Boston scene, and even the public library.
An accomplished singer and songwriter: her repertoire also includes the saxophone, bassoon, clarinet, and guitar. She draws inspiration from nature, and specifically the ocean where she can often be seen surfing. She always writes outdoors. Always!
This woman made her way to California (yay us!), set up by the ocean in Encinitas, and was quickly nominated for Best Singer-Songwriter at the 2017 San Diego Music Awards. Her joyful and spunky performance on stage combined with her old soul highlights her signature dance between dark and light.
Join us as host Laura Jane explores the music of the talented Sarah Rogo.
Track Listing * 00:50 - Misbehave * 14:04 - Born To Be Blue * 26:26 - It's Gonna Be Alright
Links * Sarah Rogo * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music generously provided by The Paladins
With their roots in the dorms of San Diego State University, Chill Clinton has become an energetic powerhouse with a long list of venues that have borne witness to their electrifying take on hip hop, showcasing cool grooves, socially conscious lyrics, fuzzy guitar riffs, and spacey synth sounds. The two-piece act of Dan Rabb and DJ Morante has evolved from DJ-music to a live band by including Pat Knightly on drums, Elkin Zuluaga on bass, Touch of CAS (MC) and dynamic MC duo, The Brothers Burns. Listen to Laura Jane host as we experience the music and soul of Chill Clinton.
Track Listing * 01:36 - My Life is Real * 12:28 - My Kind of Crowd * 26:22 - Movies
Links * Chill Clinton (Website) * Chill Clinton (Facebook) * Hapnyn * Thunderbird Analog Recording Studio
Theme music generously provided by The Paladins