Behind the Vinyl: Recent Episodes
Steven Macri
An in-depth conversation with your favorite bands within the DIY alternative music community, prompting endless discovery and good vibes! Follow the Instagram @behindthevinylpod and Twitter @StevenMacri
Sean Dunnevant of Glom has built a reputation as the guy with the riffs. From the very beginning, Glom has been a riff-driven band, and now Sean is fully embracing that identity by sharing riff videos online and having fun with the inevitable comments claiming he "stole that riff."
In this episode, Sean explains why, after decades of music history, it's almost impossible to write something that doesn't remind someone of another song. Originality isn't as simple as it used to be, and we dive into what that means for modern songwriting.
We also talk about how Glom has evolved from its earliest days, why Sean always seems to have an endless supply of riffs ready to go, and the realities of touring in today's economy. Rising costs, cancelled shows, and changing venue priorities have made life much more challenging for independent artists, with many bands focusing on major cities like New York and Philadelphia instead of smaller markets.
Sean also shares his thoughts on whether social media is still the best way for bands to get discovered or if it's becoming oversaturated. He reflects on moving from Baltimore to New York City with his fiancée just before the COVID-19 pandemic, why he always felt NYC was where he belonged, and the opportunities that came from taking that leap despite the uncertainty.
We also revisit Glom's first show, where a fashion event complained the band was playing too loud, and discuss the business side of music, including how an entertainment lawyer Sean met while working retail helped him navigate representation after Glom's first viral moment. Since then, Glom has continued to grow, signing with labels and landing bigger tours while Sean keeps doing what he does best—writing riffs.
From songwriting and the music business to touring, social media, and the future of independent artists, this conversation covers it all.
🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment letting us know your favorite Glom riff!
I'm incredibly excited to bring you my conversation with Kelley Dugan and Mina Walker of Daisey the Great!
Last year's album, The Rubber Teeth Talk, became one of the band's most successful releases to date. Rather than move on to the next chapter, they decided to keep celebrating the record in 2026 by giving the songs an entirely new life.
The idea? Invite some of their favorite artists to reimagine the album track by track.
The result is The Rubber Teeth Talk With Friends—11 fresh, imaginative reinterpretations featuring an incredible lineup of collaborators, including Frankie Cosmos, Harmony Tividad (Girlpool), Alexis Krauss (Sleigh Bells), Babehoven, and many more.
Every collaboration was approached with care, with each song taking several days to complete in the studio. Beyond creating new versions of these tracks, the sessions gave the NYC duo a chance to spend time with friends in the music community, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. Kelley and Mina gave each collaborator the freedom to take the songs in their own direction, leading to unique and deeply personal reinterpretations. What began as a simple idea ultimately became a remarkable collection where every song offers something new while honoring the spirit of the original.
The Rubber Teeth Talk With Friends arrives this Friday, July 17, so be sure to pre-save it now and get ready for some fantastic new takes on these songs. You can already hear two of the collaborations: Dog - Frankie Cosmos Version) and Dream Song - Harmony Tividad Version.
If you enjoy the conversation, please subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you never miss a future episode!
🎉 EPISODE 200 🎉 We're celebrating a huge milestone with Sweet Pill 💥 Jayce & Zaina join the pod to talk about their upcoming album Still There's a Glow and the journey from DIY college band to fully realized artists.
We get into songwriting, growth, the pandemic, protecting artistic integrity, and creating music that actually connects. Honest, emotional, and full of gratitude — this one means a lot.
🎧 Tune in now and celebrate 200 with us.
Step into another episode of Behind the Vinyl as we welcome Izzy and Toni of Glare into the interview room for an engaging and heartfelt conversation about their journey, their latest record, and everything in between.
While some might say Glare “blew up overnight,” the reality is far from effortless. The band has been putting in the work, grinding behind the scenes, and staying focused on their mission. Their latest album, Sunset Funeral, released in April via the legendary Deathwish Inc., is a testament to that dedication.
If there’s one word to describe the album, it’s “closure.” In this episode, Izzy and Toni reflect on what the record means to them, both personally and creatively. From the rainy, uncharacteristically gloomy weeks spent recording in Los Angeles, to the emotional depth behind tracks like Morning Haze and Guts, the album explores themes of grief, healing, and—ultimately—hope.
The duo shares how their songwriting process is fluid and intuitive, often allowing songs to unfold naturally with layers of meaning open to interpretation. While much of Sunset Funeral channels pain and reflection, it also leaves space for light and resilience to break through.
As the band finds their rhythm balancing tour life and creative cycles, this episode gives a deeper look into how they’re staying grounded, inspired, and ready for what’s next.
If you haven’t already, give Sunset Funeral a listen—or spin it again. It’s a record built to stand the test of time.
🎧 Tune in now and get behind the vinyl with Glare.
In this all-exclusive interview, Tate sits down with Chase Walsh, the creative force behind Worry Club, to dive deep into the band’s evolving sound, creative journey, and latest releases—including the introspective single “Anything Else” and the newly dropped “Little Fucker.”
Chase opens up about the shift from recording music in his bedroom to working in professional studios, and how his surroundings continue to shape his sonic identity. Once dreaming of scoring films, Chase found his voice (literally) while singing in college bands—evolving from hushed vocals to full-on belting now that he's no longer confined to apartment walls.
The conversation gets especially lively as Chase reminisces about performing at a packed Michigan festival alongside emo heavyweights like Free Throw, Origami Angel, Microwave, and Mom Jeans. The energy, he says, was unmatched—and the shared love for genre icons like Modern Baseball, Tigers Jaw, and Pity Sex continues to bond the band on and off stage.
Since dropping their debut EP in 2020, Worry Club has been on a steady rise, gaining a loyal following with their emotionally raw lyrics and relatable themes. Chase shares how the band’s music continues to be an outlet for him—blending vulnerability with catharsis—and how addressing mental health through songwriting helps connect with fans on a deeper level.
In this episode, Steve returns to the mic for an electrifying interview with Peter Pawlak, frontman of the relentless California hardcore outfit SPY. With their latest EP Seen Enough released in February and a non-stop touring schedule that’s taken them from the U.S. with Superheaven to stages across Europe, SPY is proving that hardcore can break barriers and cross genres.
Peter talks candidly about what it's like to front one of the most talked-about bands in the underground scene today. Growing up in California—a state with a deep-rooted punk and hardcore legacy—shaped his musical identity. From cutting his teeth at local shows to leading a band that's gaining global recognition, Peter shares how those formative years forged his artistic path.
We dive deep into Seen Enough, a record built with intent. From raw, honest lyricism that touches on personal and societal unrest, to a live-style recording process that captures the band’s unmatched energy, Peter breaks down how this EP came together—and why it feels like SPY’s most locked-in project to date.
Drawing influence from bands like Ceremony, Bad Brains, and Dead Kennedys, SPY doesn’t mimic their sound, but they carry forward their fearless ideologies. Peter speaks to the importance of political and emotional honesty in songwriting, and how staying real with listeners is the ultimate accomplishment.
Whether you're a diehard fan of hardcore or just discovering SPY, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at a band that’s pushing boundaries, refusing to be boxed in by genre, and staying true to their roots.
In this episode, Tate chats with Marcus Nuccio and Evan Weiss, the driving forces behind the band, Pet Symmetry, about their latest album Big Symmetry, released on May 2. Since August 2023, the record label, Storm Chaser, has been releasing one album every month, but Big Symmetry stands out as the label's most significant release yet. Marcus and Evan discuss the power of self-releasing music, as owning their own label allows them to make all the decisions and maintain complete control over their music. They also reflect on the incredible freedom this gives them, from writing and recording to collaborating with friends in the industry, such as Mike from Asian Man Records, who contributed to this release.
The duo opens up about the unique writing process for Big Symmetry, which took place in a cabin in Southern Illinois. Over the course of just seven days, the band wrote 17 songs and immediately tracked the drums, marking a departure from their usual, more spread-out approach to songwriting. Lyrically, the band challenged themselves to write 12 love songs, a task that proved difficult for some members, but ultimately resulted in a more refined, confident sound. Marcus and Evan also discuss the evolution of their music, explaining how the process and the music itself reflect their growth as musicians since they first started playing together in 2012.
With Pet Symmetry marking their fourth LP, the band finds themselves at a point where they can confidently call themselves veterans in the indie music scene. Their newfound confidence, along with their years of experience, has led to a tight, like-minded group of musicians who know exactly what they want out of their music careers. The episode offers an inside look at the band’s journey, their creative process, and how their decisions along the way has allowed them to achieve everything they ever wanted in music. Whether you're a fan of the band or new to their music, this conversation provides valuable insights into the world of independent music and the freedom that comes with owning your art.
Tate is on a roll as we edge closer to the big 2-0-0, and this week’s episode brings a breezy, story-filled conversation with Andrew from the band The Wisconaut. Fresh off a surf trip with his buddies, Andrew joins the show in peak post-sesh energy to chat about everything from catching waves to catching ears with his music.
The convo kicks off with Andrew’s roots in Milwaukee and his unexpected journey into surfing. He shares some of his favorite trips — including a formative stint in Rockaway, New York, where he feels he truly honed his skills on the board. But it’s not long before the tides turn toward music.
Andrew dives into his time at Syracuse University, playing in the band Super Defense before launching his own project. He gives props to the college town for its vibrant music scene, saying it played a huge role in building his confidence and shaping his sound. From basement shows to Snapchat-style video diaries, Andrew’s got stories for days.
The episode also touches on early recordings, inspiration from punk legends like Henry Rollins, and the wild ride of going viral overnight thanks to a TikTok post. From dorm room dreams to real-life gigs, The Wisconaut’s journey is part mystery, part manifesto, and all heart.
So who are The Wisconaut, really? You’ll just have to tune in to find out.
This week, Tate sits down with Jake Beital of Prize Horse for an unforgettable convo that kicks off with an instant Minnesota connection. From the Twin Cities to deep dives into the local music scene, Jake paints a vivid picture of home — and yes, he comes prepared with a stacked list of his favorite hometown restaurants.
After a quick warm-up, the two dive into the heart of it: music. Jake opens up about Under Sound, the record Prize Horse dropped last year that’s taken on a timeless life of its own. Even two years after recording, he’s still proud of what they created — and listeners clearly agree.
They also look back on their recent tour with Gleemer, calling it a huge honor, and preview what’s next: dates with Superheaven, Glare, Spy, and a just-about-to-kick-off run with Soul Blind. Prize Horse is not slowing down anytime soon.
Jake also shares what it’s been like coming up in a close-knit local scene, the friendships that helped build the band, and what keeps that community thriving. From lyric writing and album artwork to the very first time he picked up an instrument — nothing’s off the table in this wide-ranging, heartfelt interview.
Whether you’re a fan of the band, the scene, or just love a good story — this one’s a must-listen.
n this episode, we sit down with Anthony, the creative force behind the music project "Rosevile Sucks." The name originated during his time living in Roseville, and even today, driving through the area serves as a humorous reminder of those experiences. Anthony is also part of the popular YouTube channel "Hivemind," which has broadened his horizons and introduced him to the world of football, despite his primary passion for music.
Anthony shares how joining "Hivemind" was more than just a job; it was a chance to connect with like-minded musicians. The instant chemistry he found with the team has been a rewarding part of his journey, as they share a love for similar music.
"Rosevile Sucks" has been making waves with new releases, including the track "If We Never Met," which dropped in January. Initially intimidated by lyric writing, Anthony has pushed himself out of his comfort zone, allowing his skills to grow. He finds inspiration in the most unexpected places—one line in his latest song even came from TikTok!
Over the past two years, the project has garnered a significant following, amassing a large number of monthly listeners. Anthony is determined not to let the pressures of the music industry hold him back; instead, he wants to keep sharing his work with the world. Despite being his own harshest critic, he assures listeners that more music is on the way.
At one point, Anthony considered stepping away from the project, grappling with self-doubt about whether he truly belonged in the music scene. However, he’s committed to collaboration moving forward, indicating that his solo work could take a backseat as he explores new creative partnerships.
Join us for an inspiring conversation about music, creativity, and the journey of self-discovery!
In this episode, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Steph Jerkova of Punitive Damage back in November. What a fantastic conversation it was! Not only is Punitive Damage an incredible band, but Steph herself is one of the most down-to-earth and engaging people you’ll meet.
We dove deep into the band’s journey, exploring their sound, and the unique vibe that sets them apart in the hardcore punk music scene. But it wasn’t just about the music—Steph brought tons of energy, humor, and insight to the table, making this episode a blast from start to finish.
Whether you’re already a fan of Punitive Damage or just discovering their sound, this interview offers a peek behind the curtain of one of the most exciting up-and-coming bands around. Don’t miss it!
It’s taken me a little while to dive back into some of the interviews I did last year, but today we’re releasing something I’m really proud of — our interview with Chat Pile.
There were times over the past few months when I seriously considered walking away from this project. I was burnt out, and setting up interviews felt like a chore. But in the end, I realized this project is too important to me to let go. I’ve made lifelong friends in Rosie and Tate, who’ve dedicated countless hours to making sure it continues.
I often think back to my younger self, feeling lost and unsure of where my life was headed. Then I found the punk community — and it gave me purpose. For the first time in a long time, I was excited about something: the shows I attended, the people I met, and the sense of belonging.
Starting this podcast in the first month of the pandemic allowed me to connect with bands I’d been listening to for years. Even though there were times when I didn’t make the best decisions, one thing I’m sure of is that this project is something I’m proud of.
This year, I’m focusing on quality over quantity. There’ll be fewer interviews, but I’m going to make sure each one is something I’m truly excited about. I’ll be putting in more effort with follow-ups, audio, and graphics because the people who give me their time deserve nothing less.
Thank you to everyone who listens. We’ve got big things ahead, and I hope we can continue putting out content we’re proud of.
WE’RE BACK! Check out our interview with Chat Pile now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
In this episode, we sit down with Mat Kerekes, the multifaceted frontman of Citizen, to dive deep into his solo work, his ever-evolving approach to music, and his unique balance of passion projects. Whether it’s fronting an iconic band like Citizen, writing his own songs as a solo artist, or stepping into the role of a producer, Mat seems to do it all—and do it well.
Mat's most recent solo release, To Dream of Something Wicked, dropped on Wax Bodega to rave reviews, and in this interview, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the record. As Mat explains, the album was a labor of love that came together organically during a transitional time in his life. Written and recorded while moving back home, he unintentionally tapped into a sound that echoed his 2016 release Luna & the Wild Blue Everything—an album that established his solo sound. But with this latest project, Mat says, “This record is just me,” showing that he's not trying to emulate anyone or anything. He’s comfortable with who he is, and that authenticity is reflected in the music.
We also explore Mat's evolving relationship with Citizen, touching on the 10-year anniversary of Youth in 2023 (which, for Mat, marked a turning point in both his career and his personal life). He shares funny and heartfelt stories from those early days of the band, as well as his growth—from an insecure high school kid to a driven musician who balances his time between creating, performing, and pursuing other passions like Muay Thai and video games.
As we discuss his solo career, Mat reveals that his solo music often happens during downtime from Citizen. While the band will always be his main focus, his solo work offers a refreshing outlet—one that allows him to write without the pressure of a larger team. In fact, his solo endeavors have been more low-key with little press or touring, but we can expect a short 2-3 week stretch in 2025, with Mat playing a handful of dates before moving on to the next phase of his career.
If there’s one thing that stands out about Mat, it’s his ability to fully dedicate himself to whatever he does. Whether it’s music, the gym, or martial arts, he gives it everything he’s got. A self-proclaimed gym rat who’s constantly training, Mat is someone who truly takes advantage of the 24 hours in a day, leaving no room for regrets.
We had a blast chatting with Mat—his humor, honesty, and passion shine through in this conversation. Be sure to listen to the full interview for insights into Mat's creative process, his growth as both an artist and a person, and of course, some great stories from the road with Citizen.
What can we say about Speed and their iconic hit record Only One Mode that hasn't already been said? If you're a hardcore fan, you know the vibe. This lovable group from Australia brings everything you could ask for: raw energy, relentless drive, and authenticity on and off the stage. They’re more than just a band; they’re an unstoppable force in hardcore, breaking boundaries worldwide.
In this latest episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Jem from Speed. Going into this, I knew I was a HUGE fan. But after diving into Jem’s past interviews, I could see why Speed resonates so deeply with fans. Jem’s responses are thoughtful, warm, and make you feel like you've been friends for years.
In my pre-interview deep dive/preparation, I stumbled on a post by one of the band members' parents—it was a true celebration of the band’s journey. You can see the genuine love they have for each other. From holiday gatherings to major events, Speed is more than a band; they’re family.
What was supposed to be an 1-hour convo turned into an epic 2-hour hangout (sorry, Jem!). Tate and I walked away feeling like we made a friend. Huge thanks to Jem for being so open and genuine. We’ll always be fans of Speed!
In this episode, we dive deep with Sam and Skylar of Been Stellar as tearlier in the year they celebrated the release of their debut album, Scream from New York, NY. Having crafted their musical bond since the age of 14, the duo reflects on the evolution of their sound from singles and EPs to a full-length record.
Join us as they share the story behind the album—how the pressure of previous EP's success fueled their desire to create something raw and authentic. Sam and Skylar discuss their mission to deliver emotionally resonant lyrics that defy trends and showcase their unique identity as a band.
With the vibrant backdrop of New York City as their canvas, they explore the challenges and triumphs of relocating from Michigan to the bustling metropolis. Discover how their shared experiences in a new city shaped their music and lyrics, and how they navigated a scene marked by the closure of historic venues. It took away from that magical notion that musical dreams could be created in NYC. However, determination carried them up to this point as they found ways to throw their own shows early on at venues such as art galleries.
This episode is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of friendship in the ever-evolving music landscape. Tune in to hear the heartfelt sounds of Been Stellar and understand what it truly means to scream from New York!
This week, we sit down with Adrian from Luster to dive deep into their creative process and the unique dynamics of the band. We discuss how they manage to blend emotional vulnerability with a sound that's evolved over the years.
Highlights Include:
- The surprising fact that, despite playing shoegaze the most, it's what Adrian listens to the least!
- The origins of Luster as a "bedroom project," with Adrian and Alvin sending ideas back and forth, allowing the rest of the band to contribute at their own pace.
- How Adrian and Alvin’s friendship began 10+ years ago at California shows, not as childhood friends, but as kindred spirits shaped by a shared culture and humor.
- Adrian's thoughts on embracing emotion in music, especially within Latin culture, where expressing feelings is often discouraged.
- Why moving to a small town of just 400 people has given Adrian the peace and space he needs to be creative.
- Reflections on the band's emo-adjacent sound and how Adrian’s emotional experiences influence his lyrics.
Plus, Adrian shares stories of growing up listening to everything from Nu Metal to Slayer, and the band tattoos that have left a lasting mark: Morrissey, Unbroken, Psychic TV, and Swans.
This episode is filled with honest insights and reflections from a band that started with a simple mission—to play music with friends—and has checked off dream collaborations along the way. Don’t miss out on this amazing conversation!
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of a band that emerged from the fusion of passion and persistence. Our story begins a decade ago with Eric Stenman, who was writing heavier music that he never imagined would reach the public eye. Eric's early musical journey intertwined with Aaron Bruno's in the late '90s through their shared love for hardcore music. Despite their separate creative paths —Eric focusing on music production and Aaron eventually forming Awolnation—they would later find a way to create a band together (although they have been working together for years with Aaron writing for Awolantion and Eric producing all of the records).
After years of Eric leaning more towards production and not playing much instrumentals, Aaron, having heard some of Eric’s latest work, was impressed and wanted to continue on other songs. This pivotal moment led to the formation of a new band that stands apart from traditional music paths. Unlike many bands that spend years on the road in a van, this group is driven by their love for hardcore music and are doing it because their passions align.
With four songs already released, including the recent track "Bazooka" on August 2, listeners can expect some exciting surprises and new directions from this band. The new record will be out on October 4th
In our conversation with Eric, we also explored his impressive career as a producer. Since 1997, he’s avoided the day job to build a notable resume working with bands like Deftones, Weezer, Thrice, Dashboard Confessional, Senses Fail, and Awolnation. We asked Eric to reflect on his experiences with these iconic groups, providing listeners with insightful anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories.
Tune in to hear about the origins of the band, their unique approach to music, and Eric’s reflections on his storied career in the industry.
We had Vince of Modern Color on to talk about "There Goes the Dream." The writing process for their latest record was fragmented, as Vince has been personally juggling other projects and endeavors—being on the road with Militarie Gun while still touring with Modern Color. It took a little longer to write because they thrive on getting in a room together and bouncing ideas off each other. Nonetheless, the wait was well worth it. Usually, Fleming or Chad come in with a full song, and they start jamming to develop those ideas. The best part? They can be real with each other and give productive feedback. That all led to the carefully crafted songs on "There Goes the Dream." It was a recipe for success for the band.
This record is all about making intentional changes. They focused on Fleming’s writing and vocals first, instead of writing the music and adding lyrics later. Modern Color also got more personal with their songwriting, shortening the song lengths, and becoming more direct. These songs tell the story of growing up in the South Bay, surrounded by music everywhere they went. "Where’s Kevin" is one of those stories—it's a handwritten apology to Fleming's mom about sneaking out as a kid. The title itself stems from a building manager who was never around when he was needed. And there’s something for everyone, even an acoustic track like "Night Swim."
Growing up in the metalcore scene in the South Bay, they played the same venues with the same bands every weekend. It felt stale, and that's when they realized they wanted to do something different. Since then, it’s been a journey of finding the band's sound and pushing it in a new direction—that’s been the driving force behind Modern Color.
Balancing tours has shown Vince the importance of a stable lineup for the band to grow and continue to progress. As they reach 10 years with Modern Color, they reflect on the chemistry built from growing up together. Though our lineup wasn’t solidified until they wrote "Pale" in Vince’s room in 2015, the DIY spirit that started it all continues to push them forward. They are moving ahead, but they also know there’s still so much work left to do. Stick around until the end to hear personal stories from Vince duing our "lighning round." I really loved hearing why Vince explain how he was fidgity as a kid and was always drumming against some type of surface.
Tate jumps behind the mic for an exclusive interview with Grant from Hear to Gold!
We chat about everything from new jams leading to a 10-song record coming out at a later date. The journey started out with self-producing the first album and eventually the band teamed up with Memory Music. Now they are a force in the music scene just recently working alongside the incredible Will Yip which has been a game changer.
While their writing process remains consistent, collaborating with a broader team outside the band has fueled their fire even more. The motivation is at an all-time high, and the band is stoked about what's coming next.
Grant opens up about his thoughts on corporate music and how it contrasts with his true vision of what music and art should be. Keeping his morals intact, he's managed to balance two jobs while making it clear that his passion for music—and touring—comes first.
Oh, and did we mention that Tate and Grant have a serious appreciation for Weezer? I think most will love this part of the conversation!
There's also a fun conversation about genre classification which in Grant's mind is totally subjective. But one thing’s for sure—their energy behind every song is 100% authentic and natural. If you haven't yet, make sure to check out Heart to Gold's new song "TNT" which came out at the end of July.
We’re super excited to share our latest episode featuring Brendan Dyer and Yarden Erez of Milly!
Their 2024 record, "Your Own Becoming," released on June 28, has been one of my most anticipated albums this year for me, especially after the single "Drip From the Fountain" dropped. This album is easily in my top 5 for 2024!
The band started crafting this masterpiece on a New Year’s Day when Brendan decided it was time to make a record. It was a coming together moment where they realized that they needed to go hard on the new songs. They poured their hearts into the songs, meeting three times a week and pushing their creative limits. This album marks a comeback for Brendan, who wasn’t entirely happy with their first full-length album.
In this episode, we dive into some cool stories behind the songs - especially a fun fact about one of the songs coming their way in a trade from waveform*. Also, "Drip From the Fountain" almost didn’t make it onto the record after they were told it didn't have the juice? It eventually became the first single released leading into the record.
This podcast had a different start to it where we used a lightening round of questions to learn about the background of the group. We had silly questions like most meaningful band tee they own and superstitions amongst the group (like the amazing response Brendan gives - cough Panda Express cough cough). But, there are also questions that allow us to learn about how the band formed and the journey leading up to this most recent release. There's also a fun conversation about some of the tours they are tagging along for such as Basement, Fiddlehead, and Balance and Composure.
We are to have Joey Vannucci of From Indian Lakes on to discuss his new record, "Head Void", which was released on May 15! This is his first FIL album since 2019, and it was worth the wait.
"Head Void" is a very organic, pick-up-the-guitar-and-bang-on-the-drums type of record. None of these songs were sitting around for long—they were all written and finished within a couple of months. Each track brings a unique sound, continuing his tradition of exploring different musical landscapes with every release.
While Joe Vann, his solo project, marked a significant chapter in his career, releasing three albums in three years, he is now building on all the music he created while starting FIL. This interview has a little bit of everything. Joey grew up on 40 acres of land and then moved to New York City when his wife landed a job. For some that would be a culture shock, but it wasn't a difficult adjustment for Joey. NYC offered so many amazing opportunities, especially within music.
In this episode, we also dive into 90s and early 2000s TV shows, video games, and there's even a little NBA playoffs discussion thrown in for good measure.
During a recent music lull, podcasts dominated my morning commute until Pissed Jeans shook me awake with their new record! The song "Moving On" hit me like a lightning bolt – from the killer intro riff to those raw, punk vocals, it was pure magic. Their latest album "Half Divorced" reaffirmed my punk roots, reminding me why I fell in love with this genre in the first place.
These guys aren't just a band; they're a rebellion against the mundane. Taking a break from adulting, they crank out music that's loud, unapologetic, and utterly captivating. Randall Huth brought their story to life on the podcast – trust me, it's a wild ride worth tuning into.
If you haven't already, crank up "Half Divorced" and let Pissed Jeans transport you to a time when punk ruled and conformity was nowhere in sight. Don't miss out – this is punk rock at its finest!
Get ready to switch gears with us as Tate Daniels, the wizard behind the editing scenes, steps into the limelight for an electrifying interview with the entire Riley! band!
Fresh off the press, their latest record "Keep Your Cool" dropped on April 19, and if you haven't tuned in yet, well, you might just be Patrick Star living under a rock. This full-length masterpiece marks a monumental moment for the trio since joining Counter Intuitive Records, adding another gem to the label's star-studded catalog of bangers.
Mark your calendars because this Texas threesome is hitting the road starting late June, with shows lined up all the way through July. Until then, keep those speakers blasting with their latest tunes and dive into the behind-the-scenes scoop in our interview - trust us, you won't want to miss out on the fun facts about the lovable Riley!
We were lucky enough to catch Mercedes Arn-Horn of Softcult on the same day of when they released their new hit single, One of the Pack. It's a song with a special and important meaning that Mercedes gives her honest and authentic self during the song and while talking about it on our podcast. In the words of Mercedes, "In Softcult we pride ourselves on being femnists and advocating for equality in every shape-and-form. We are kind of bringing back riot grrl ethos to the shoegaze world." There is still an ongoing debate about who belongs where and this song spotlights that there can discomfort at times for women - even in the music community. It's an absolute jam with an incredibly paramount message beind it. If anything, this song shows that Softcult is ready for the big stage with another gem of a song.
What catches my attention most about this band is that nothing has been handed to them. They have seen adversity and are stronger as a group because of it. It helps that Softcult is centered around twins (Mercedes & Phoenix) who share a similar vision. But, in the beginning they had a small taste of success when a major label signed them at a young age. This positive feeling only lasted for so long when they saw business side of music. After putting in countless hours and seeing a long list of their songs shot down - they made the decision to go out on their own. They now make every decision surrounding the band. The twins even go as far as doing all of the production, art work, tour scheduling, and most importantly, picking which songs get released to the public. Mercedes and Phoenix decided to bet on themselves and it worked out!
Tate and I really enjoyed having Mercedes join us for an epic conversation. There's even a portion of the interview where we all talk about horror movies! We will release Mercedes' favorites later in the week.
We have a good one for you tonight! While the Richmond, VA crowd gets to see Glitterer live (jealous, much!) we are dishing out an interview with Ned Russin. For several years now several of my friends have been sending me music whenever Glitterer released songs. Ned's new project, that officially came to be in 2017 when he released a self-title album, quickly grew on me. Whenever someone has a successful project, it's often tough to seperate oneself from that image. However, Ned had a goal in mind and quickly got to work - creating the songs mostly on his own by playing every instrument except for the drums. While Ned had a plan and hit the ground running with Glitterer, this project recently welecomed other members into the band. These members played an "instrumental" role in creating the album the record, Rationale (released in February of this year). It also seems like they will continue to be a main stay for the live experience and possibly future releases.
Ned has been consistently touring since he was 19-years old after he dropped out of college to do the band exclusevely. The only schedule Ned has known is being on the road. But, he has since put a focus on other things such as finishing up his degree and working at a record store. Glitterer tours when they can and it's always a special moment whenever someone can catch them live. There are a lot of fun stories in this one such as studying on the road while in Title Fight, his parents valuing an education, writing an releasing a book three years ago (Horizontal Rust - check it out!), and looking up to his older brother during the early years.
Kevin Devine is someone that every young musician should listen to. Throughout this conversation he gave some of the most well thought out responses I have seen on the podcast. He analyzes everything and looks at music from a lense that not every musician can see through. He is also a genuine personality and is one of the nicest people out there. The interview itself was all over the place - It started with living on Staten Island covering Nirvana songs and ended with a quick conversation about how terrible our favorite sports organizations are. This is truly a must listen so tune it up and let us know your thoughts!
Matt Pryor joined us to talk about his new book, "Red Letter Days" which hit shelves on January 23. He left us with a ton of great advice for young musicians and took a deep dive in a good chunk of the fun stories that appear in this book. It's certainly a page turner so pick up a copy if you have not done so already!
Purchase the book here:
https://polyvinylrecords.com/product/red_letter_days
I’m going to take you back to about a year ago. It was February of 2023 and Gouge Away was in the midst of a return. This was after several years of staying relatively quiet and a behind the scenes breakup. Gouge Away was in Portland having a band practice when they reached out to Militarie Gun about showing up to watch them play on a kick-ass bill of Spiritual Cramp and Supercrush. Ian Shelton and the rest of the members of Militarie Gun had other plans for the night. After some convincing, they set up plans for Gouge Away to make an epic return. In the middle of their set they turned the spotlight over to Gouge Away, who came on the stage to play two songs (One new). It was a night to remember and got the ball rolling for the new music that Gouge Away planned to eventually release. "Idealized" came out shortly after, and the band released "Stuck in a Dream" on January 9. This is setting the table for Deep Sage to arrive on March 15. It’s a record that Christina Michelle says will be different, and at times “weird,” but if the first two songs tell us anything: it’s that Gouge Away hasn’t lost a step. This group is ready to not only break through the surface, but also become one of the premier hardcore bands. It has been a rollercoaster of a ride for the group. They released Burnt Sugar in 2018 and toured non-stop up until the pandemic. Then came the low-key breakup where Christina Michelle never thought the band would be together again. Now, the band is back, with a refreshed sound, a mature outlook, and ready to show the world that they are here to stay.
Gouge Away: Website - https://www.gougeaway.com/ Bandcamp - https://gougeawayfl.bandcamp.com/album/deep-sage
For a majority of his music career, Erik Kase Romero has been behind the scenes. Romero has developed into a prominent music producer – most notably working with the Front Bottoms (also plays instrumentals in the live experience), Lorde, and the Bouncing Souls. Romero has developed a name for himself in the industry and his musical genius is something that musicians desire. A quick peek at his website takes the viewer into a magical journey that involves a large list of production. It’s a list that would be considered a “dream” for anyone just breaking into the business. Romero is now a seasoned veteran and in some ways can be picky when thinking about who he will invite to his home studio next.
Romero has been involved in bands on the local circuit for years now. But, what seemed like a silly idea, quickly became a reality over the past year. Romero made the decision to branch out with his abilities and start a solo project. While it has been a great success so far, it was no easy decision. As previously stated, Romero has always been in the background through production and instrumentals in various groups. His solo act is serving as a time where he has the mic and the listeners get to hear his powerful words. His single still already caught the listener’s attention for how vulnerable and relatable Romero is through his lyrics. While Romero will continue to push his songs through social media and has several live shows coming up, he does not care for commercial success. This project is not meant to result in headlining huge venues, but instead it’s another chance to grow as a musical mind, and have some fun while doing so. How to be still and still be here is set to be released tomorrow. Make sure to give it a listen and support Romero as he takes on this solo adventure.
Audio edited by Tate Daniels
Graphic by Rosemary Young
Host Steven Macri
Instagram - @behindthevinylpod
X - @BehindVinyl
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When you sit back and think about some of the centerpieces of hardcore punk in the early 2000's, Paint it Black will instantly come to mind. Especially in the Philadelphia area. Philadelphia has a long history of great bands that paved the way for what music music is today. Paint it Black fits that category. One of the most exciting news of this year is when Paint it Black decided to release "Famine." It was the band's first full-length record since 2008 and it did not miss. The biggest praise I can say about this group is that they have not lost their sound. I could have been told that this record was from 20+ years ago when Paint it Black was first forming and I would have believed it. They still have the same energy and are sticking to their roots. The band's story is known by now - they came together when another legendary Philadelphia based group, Kid Dynamite, decided to hang up the band tees, and call it quits. Dan Yemin was still had the same drive from the beginning of Kid Dynamite and wanted to continue making music, so he decided to turn things up a notch and form Paint it Black. Instead of sitting with a guitar on the stage, he decided to switch over to vocals, because no matter what, the band will continue as long as the singer is still there.
It was a huge honor to have an established musician like Andy Nelson on. Punk music is engraved deep in his heart and it was a true pleasure to hear some of his inspirations. This included a fantastic conversation about Dillinger Four. "Famine" is a record I can play from start to finish, so while we were on the inspirations conversation, we discussed what he believes makes a "perfect" record. Continously, we really explored this album and heard about what it took to make this record. While the band doesn't tour much anymore, everyone should make it a point to see them if they are ever in your city. Spoiler alert- there might be a conversation about Nelson's other band, Ceremony, making a surprise appearance at Sound and Fury.
Intro by Rainville
Audio edits by Tate Daniels
Flyer by Rosemary Young
Host Steven Macri
We are joined by the real Kevin Hart* of Public Opinion which has been a fun new discovery in 2023 and ready to take on the world in 2024. The band is extremely underrated but with a full catalogue of new songs waiting to be released, the group should see a welcoming success in the near future. Hart, who has a rich history of playing in several different groups, said that he wants to release the new songs over an extended period of time rather than having them hit streaming services all at once. This way the band can dodge the burnout feeling that counless bands are subjected to during the hustle and the listeners have the opportunity to savor the songs one at a time. Although Hart works a full-time job, he has accepted the amount of hours that this band will take in order to find success. That includes recording, hitting the road for tour, and doing the tedious admin tasks such as merch designs. While Public Opinion is relatively new, they have already seen several different live lineups. Hart is willing to play with anyone who has a vision and is open to the idea of a rotating group of instrumentals. Public Opinion also has a support circle as they release music through Convulse Records - a label that features Gel and MSPAINT. Hart also discusses his long standing friendship with Ian Shelton and how Shelton always had the goal of bringing back fast hardcore music. Shelton has been in Public Opinon's corner since the start and continues to make a difference by offering support to up-and-coming bands. Brace yourselves... 2024 should be a year of headlines for Public Opinion. The momentum started with the release of "Bug" back in September.
Charmer's music has always been a powerful exploration of mental health, and "Rose Thorns" is no exception. What's different this time? The lyrics have matured, and the songs are all about moving forward from the mental health struggles that life throws our way. It's a journey towards finding clarity and purpose in life. David believes this new music takes him back to the "early Charmer" days. Get ready for some amazing harmonies and a huge emphasis on guitar playing in these tracks!
In this interview, David opens up about the challenges Charmer faced and the ultimate motivation that drives them today. After college, David took a bold step by moving to the East Coast, fully committing himself to the world of music. The band self-released several EPs, but the growth they hoped for just didn't materialize. It was a tough period. Undeterred, when things didn't go as planned, David decided to return to Michigan with Neil. They had a handful of songs left, so they recorded them, almost like a parting gift to the band. Little did they know, this would mark a turning point.
In 2017, Charmer did five dates with Free Throw, and it marked a turning point for them. Prior to that, they had been slogging it out on some pretty tough DIY tours. These tours, while memorable, were often in front of small crowds and with very little money to show for it. Charmer's journey continued with the release of their first LP, but for the first six months, there was radio silence. The album didn't take off right away, and they had to rely on word of mouth to get some attention. It was only when their second record came out that things really started to change. People began to listen to both albums, and Charmer's music started to gain traction.
The pandemic brought a lot of downtime and changes for everyone, including Charmer. They found themselves dealing with family obligations and even David hitting the road with Hot Mulligan, which demanded his focus. However, this past year has been a turning point. They finally had the opportunity to sit down and get back to making music. The result? The band feels like they've improved significantly.
We are happy that David and Charmer are writing music again. Check out "Rose Thorns" and let us know what you think. Also, make sure to catch Charmer, Free Throw, Prince Daddy & The Hyena, and Saturday's At Your Place on tour! This is just the beginning of an exciting musical direction, and we can't wait to share more with you. Stay tuned for more updates!
We have Saturdays At Your Place on a special Saturday release of BTV! So, hopefully BTV can spend this Saturday at your place... The band first met in college and quickly recognized the incredible house show scene in Michigan. After creating a catalogue of songs that was enough to hit the road, the emo outlet decided to hit the road once the pandemic cooled down. Since then, there has been nothing but praise from listeners across the country, as they have seen a quick and steady rise through the emo rankings. The proof is in the facts as they amass about 128,000 monthly listeners on Spotify alone and are about to begin a monster of a tour with legendary bands such as Free Throw, Prince Daddy & The Hyena, and Charmer. If you can't get enough of their debut album always cloudy then you are in luck! Earlier this month the band released a single called pourover which is included on a split that the group did with Shoplifter and Summerbruise. The split dropped on 11/17 through No Sleep Records.
We had Pittsburgh's finest, Short Fictions, back to talk about their face melting album, Oblivion Will Own Me and Death Alone Will Love Me.
“It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it” These words are what Nathan Hardy of Microwave lives by. You can hear it in his songs through the raw emotion that comes out in Microwave’s lyrics. Experienced writer’s often say you have to listen if you ever want to say anything worth while. Basically, in short, it means you have to read and experience other styles in order to develop your own. The same could be said for Hardy who reads often. It comes in forms of books and poetry. It all helps him consistently develop as a writer and a person. People often believe that listening to solely music will make someone a better musician but Hardy has found this fulfillment through literature. However, several years ago all music came to a halt. In 2019 Microwave put out their hit record “Death is a Warm Blanket.” It seemed like the beginning of what would be a fast climb to the top for the band. They were on the heels of going over seas to tour and really built a fan base that showed a consistent love for the band. Those dreams were quickly crushed when the pandemic officially locked everyone away at home and forced the music industry to find new ways to reach an audience. Hardy specifically took a step back from writing so that he could see the next move for the music science. It was unclear when and how touring would even return. After waiting about two years to see what the landscape of music was turning into, Microwave played several huge shows that struck some motivation in them again and resulted in new music. In 2022 Microwave released their first single since 2019 - a refreshing sign for the band’s passionate listeners. Since then several other songs have been released and all signs points towards this only being the beginning. Hardy has such a unique way of looking at different life topics. Especially music as a whole. Listen to this interview because Hardy was a great conversation and taught me a lesson or two.
When I say Militarie Gun is one of my favorite bands, that’s not an understatement. The band’s June 23 release, Life Under The Gun, put an exclamation point on that remark. It felt like record from a veteran band - one that has been around for 10-20. However, for Militarie Gun, they have only been releasing music since 2020 as a group, and made instant noise in the hardcore scene with All Roads Lead To The Gun. It helped that the members all come from excellent projects (Regional Justice Center, Modern Color, and Drug Church). Now Militarie Gun is getting their rightful recognition. Life Under The Gun will pop up on countless Album of the Year lists.
This interview was recorded in July around the time of the viral video between Ian Shelton and Post Malone. We hear a fun story of how that connection came to be. There’s also an in-depth conversation about collaboration projects. I don’t think anyone has forgotten about the song Pressure Cooker that Militarie Gun did with Dazy last year. Shelton also helped out with music from MSPAINT and Cold Mega. Give this interview a listen! It was a long time coming!
A magazine wrote earlier in the year that Fidlar is unapologetically back. The group took a noticeable three year hiatus right before the pandemic. They were burnt out after touring 10-11 years straight. But, what often gets misconstrued is that Fidlar planned the whole time to step away, which is far from the truth. Perhaps it’s the mysterious move to delete everything on social media. But, the band had plans to release music without touring.
Now, for the unapologetically back… bands often make a big deal about their return to the spotlight. That wasn’t the case for Fidlar. Carper jokes “If anything, we are sorry we are back.” Fidlar released two covers in Nookie and Free Fallin’ recently. The band is no strangers to covers after doing their own version of Sabotage early on in their career. There is no end in sight for Fidlar now. There will be endless “Don’t Fuck With” EP volumes since they have so much music ready to go.
This is an exciting interview because Carper was not afraid to open up. He did not shy away from talking about his issues with drugs and being in and out of juvie and rehab centers. He talked about the real reason he moved to California - leaving Hawaii behind. Having a flight booked for March 23 to Japan during the first year of the pandemic because he originally had plans of working with his cousin in Japan. Lastly, the Florida tour and his plans to do surprise pop ups in coffee shops. This was a really fun conversation. Fidlar is open to all kinds of press, including bad press, but my gut tells me the band will continue to receive positive reviews from here on out.
Bandcamp: https://restrainingorderhc.bandcamp.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4HXv1CWVOyIO8ZNvGOSyEy?si=O3yDmKM4RBKFsXWH0vt_BQ
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/restraining-order/6290600
Kamtin Mohager was known for his time in Teenage Wrist leading into pandemic, but around 2020 he went through a transition period. Mohager decided to part ways with Teenage Wrist and started up Heavenward. It was the first time since The Chain Gang of 1974 that Mohager had the opportunity to call all of the shots. He was able to let his true music colors. But, instead of returning to his dance music routes that listeners became familiar with while listening to The Chain Gang of 1974, Mohager continued to build on his shoegaze sound that Teenage Wrist projected through their music.
Mohager put out an exciting debut record for Heavenward on June 16 labeled Pyrophonics. With so much already accomplished during his music career, it's hard to find something that Mohager hasn't covered yet, but he decided to show a side that listeners haven't seen yet - which was the ultimate recipes for a masterpiece of a record. Mohager has been living the business side of music since making it a main focus and signing with a major label. This record gave him freedom to be creative and go in whatever direction he felt appropriate. Mohager decided to have his friends join along, calling it a full collaberation with his friends, a group that included Nathanial Motte 3OH!3. Experience is what fueld the drive for this record. At this point Mohager knows what he wants and what he doesn't want out of his music. He is all about celebrating small wins at this point in his career instead of rushing the process. I would say Pyrophonics was a massive win for Heavenward.
Bandcamp: https://heavenwardband.bandcamp.com/album/staircase-music
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3iKDeO8yaOiWz7vkeljunk?si=-oZrCWzuSpu_r7mjuGpsmA
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/heavenward/1526237028
Drew Waldon and Gumm have seen rapid success over the course of the past year. The band can fall back on the hard work finally paying off. The members of Gumm all work jobs outside of the band but they take on every show and tour that comes their way. Gumm is the first band that Waldon has fronted and the EP Staring Through You is the first time he has recorded vocals. There is continued growth going into their debut record, Slogan Machine. The album has eight songs on it with every song being so good that they could have been a single.
Gumm started out as a side project with Waldon playing drums. They originally played heavy hardcore music and that is when Waldon realized that's not the style he wanted to continue with. Waldon was listening to a lot of Ceremony and found inspiration in their music. Waldon has been going to shows for over 12 years now and has seen the Chattanooga scene grow. Bands like Spy, Gel, and Drug Church have made a point to come through. Now, Waldon and the rest of the band get to see what other places are like while on the road. Gumm is fresh off a tour that consisted of Drain as the headline act and also had Drug Church on it too.
Waldon has created his own story and is finding success. He was originally homeschooled in a Christian household. His mom originally kept him from listening to aggressive music like Rancid and other punk groups. Eventually he moved in with his dad and was introduced to a new world of music - which led to having to hide his choice in music. His mom has since accepted his lifestyle choice and has even been in the audience for a few shows. Gumm is now finding their way and have a clear path in front of them. Catch them with bands like 7 Seconds and Fiddlehead later this year!
Bandcamp: https://gumm.bandcamp.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4iJSuRiHxC9zkb3nN4aYWA?si=--nCrxRXTdusxULrB5Zwnw
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gumm/641605267
I saw Oso Oso several years ago for the first time in a small town in New Jersey. I was instantly hooked after their debut album, Real Stories of True People Who Kind of Looked Like Mosters…, and always wanted to see them live, but never really had the opportunity. Around 2018, right before Basking in the Glow came out, I took the trek to a small venue in NJ, and saw Jade and his band play in front of a room of maybe 20-30 people. It has been fun being from the outside looking in and seeing Oso Oso grow as a group. They now travel the world and fill up venues to capacity as a headlining act.
It was a true honor being able to chat with Jade Lilitri in-person before his Asbury Park gig. I always felt a connection to not only his music but some of his interest. Of course the emo music is a great start, but he’s also from Long Island, where I was born, and has been on record as a huge Knicks fan. I learned during this conversation that he is a die-hard Yankees fan and grew up with the team - Bernie Williams being his favorite player.
We really took this interview in several different directions. Jade told us about his dog and how that’s always his chance to decompress when home from a long tour. He discussed how Basking in the Glow was a record where he could finally quit his job at a bar and saw a growing audience. There’s a fun story about when he didn’t receive a positive welcome from a punk show as a teenager and how he was able to bounce back after a gig that could’ve pushed him away from music. How a song on MySpace led to confidence and helped Jade find his voice. Lastly, how life experiences and the loss of a best friend has led to a new meaning behind touring and the band as a whole.
It’s the return of the legendary Mikey Erg on Behind the Vinyl - this time for an in-person interview before The Ergs! show in Asbury Park last month. This interview is a little more focused on The Ergs! so if you are a fan of the band this is definitely a discussion for you. We talked about the return of pop punk when The Ergs! first formed, The Fest and how it’s the best show anyone will play the entire year, the “final” show at the Asbury Lanes in 2008, the band originally breaking up but since teaming up again and building momentum (New songs + and more shows), playing a handful of West Coast shows last year, carrying the hometown of Old Bridge with them, putting out two new EPs last year, working with Steve Albini for a solo record, and how his solo self titled record could had been a The Ergs! record.
When you hear 90's punk bands from Chicago talk about their inspirations, The Bollweevils are almost always mentioned in some capacity. After 14+ years of not releasing music, The Bollweevils are back in action, with the record Essential coming out in May on Red Scare. Before talking about the new music, we jumped in a time machine and discussed being on Dr. Strange before Red Scare and the bands that were on the label - a list that includes Face to Face and 7 Seconds. Dr. Dr. Daryl Wilson was passionate about being on Dr. Strange, and has the same feelings towards Red Scare, calling them the band's ride or die. There was a lot of history in this episode. It was mostly the history of punk so if you like hearing about bands who paved the way for punk music - then this is the interview for you. But, we also deeply discussed his passion for comics and how frequent he is picking up new releases.
Wilson got accepted into medical school and eventually had to start a residency. It was a big reason why he stepped away from the band for an extended time period and didn't tour with the band. He's now an emergency room doctor and has a ton of experience in the medical field under his belt. There is no better opportunity to put a big focus on the band again and see where it goes. The band released the new record on May 5 and have since hit the road. We talked about the new songs and how everything came together again. There was also a discussion about involvement in punk and there has been growth over the years.
We have Sunny Singh, also known as hate5six, for this one. Most hardcore fans know him for popping up at shows across the country with a camera in hand but he has also made a huge impact on the community as a whole. Ever since Sunny decided to leave his full-time job, he has made a pact with himself to push even harder with the new year. This year's goals currently sits at 1,000 recorded sets, in which Sunny was way ahead of schedule when this episode was recorded. What makes hate5six so honorable is that he's willing to give new bands a shot. Someone can send a simple message over social media and Sunny will be in the audience that night. There are countless bands that will contribute quick success to a video that the hate5six name releases of their set. It's a one man project but Sunny releases at the speed of a company of 100+ employees. Since the beginning the goal has been to help bands find an audience. The channel has always been accessible to newer and younger bands.
Hard work always seems to pay off when someone has a vision and is willing to put in the time. That is what happened to Sunny when he was asked to jump on the most recent Rage Against the Machine tour for select dates. Sunny had the opportunity to continue to build his name while watching one of his favorite childhood bands return to the stage. Sunny is someone who speaks up about topics that matter dearly to him. He wants to use his platform to educate his followers with the research he conducts. That mindset falls back to his early days with Rage Against the Machine. They opened the door for speaking up for yourself and creating clarity for a large population. This is a project that demands endless hours. Sunny is the definition of "perfectionist." Some would believe that he is filming at a faster rate than most people can consume, but Sunny is beating the odds. His page is closely watched on a daily basis. Sunny is careful with his edits, but the end result is rewarding. These videos are timestamping music history.
Dirty Heads have by now solidified themselves as a true southern California staple group, with each release continuing to demonstrate their ability to effortlessly transcend genre. It seems the trick to their unique brand of artistry is to often create (and at times, reimagine) as an extension of an intended mood, without overthinking or taking things too seriously—a feat much easier said than done, but one that Dirty Heads have worked to achieve over their 17 years as a band. Catch the Dirty Heads live experience as they embark on the Island Glow Summer Tour this week!
Dave Hause is a musician who wears several hats. On the road, he’s the front man of a well-known punk band. One that travels the world and releases music often. At home, he’s a family man who can be found bringing his sons to school or running errands out in town for his family. The juggling act of being a musician with a family at home is a rewarding process. Dave said when he’s home he is present. It’s an opportunity to show his kids a creative life - a creative side that should be focused on more for our youth. His family’s main rule is keep it balanced. He hits the road in blocks so that he can recharge and also be around the family. That way he can give his all when he’s in the moment.
Hause is still going strong. Two records have been released over the past year or so, plus his brother, Tim’s new record was released in January. His brother brings a refreshing breathe to music. Hause now lives in California and his brother is still on the east coast, which means they have to find ways to record whether that’s in-person or virtual. It’s an obstacle most musicians deal with but at the end of the day he wants to create music that the audience will love. Hause even says about the live experience that he wants to give people what they didn’t know they needed. There are a ton of fun stories In this interview.. especially the article Hause wrote about Taylor Swift being more punk than all of us - a public piece that received a lot of attention. There’s also a story about over the pandemic when he put out cover songs of Dillinger Four. His record label, Blood Harmony Records, that he managers with his brother, is a way for them to self release. Each record shows growth for Hause.
New York hardcore has a legendary list of bands that have paved the way for a younger group to join the mix. Koyo is keeping the reputation going. Hailing from Long Island, Koyo is making it known that they are here to stay and will be a band to talk about, not only when discussing the history of NY hardcore, but the current chapter of hardcore music as a whole. Koyo has been busy this year. After forming right before the pandemic, something that derailed their start a bit, they have since been making up ground. After recently wrapping up a tour with Bayside, Koyo is current En route with No Pressure and soon will be overseas this summer. Joey is a fascinating mind and is full of knowledge. He talked about going on tour with bands that have a different sound or come from another time period and what that can mean for crowd presence. Joey also discusses the current state of the hardcore genre. He believes the current growth is something Koyo and others are benefiting from. He talks about participating in the genre and trying your best to be involved because it takes the whole community for it to be successful. We get into the importance of touring and how it has a bigger meaning coming out of Covid. Discussed how Koyo came to be and how timing worked out for everyone in the group. Joey mentions being able to concentrate on Koyo as a whole but leaving the door open for a possible Typecaste gig in the future. Lastly, we spotlight finding influence from others and how his peers are his motivators.There are endless fascinating topics during this interview. Give it a listen and make sure to catch Koyo when they come to a town near you!
Step into the mind of Chris No. 2 as he takes us back to the origin story of Anti-Flag and what they have been fighting for through music since the start. There have been countless moments over the year where the band’s message became dangerous for the members - fights at shows, death threats, and even seeing their merch taken out of big-time stores, but the band never lost focus. This group has been around for 30+ years now and although the path hasn’t always been easy, like stated above, it has its rewarding moments, such as connecting the fans and when Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine took notice of their music. Chris No. 2 hopes for a moment where Anti-Flag doesn’t have to exist anymore, but for now they are still creating music, recently putting out a record in January labeled, LIES THEY TELL OUR CHILDREN. The record had the likes of McIlrath of Rise Against, Jesse Leach of Killswitch Engage, Shane Told of Silverstein, and Stacey Dee of Bad Cop/Bad Cop. This one is worth the listen as we dive into deep topics that need some focus.
Here it is! The exclusive in-person interview with Frank Turner last Saturday at the Stone Pony Summer Stage!
We talked about how meaningful Asbury Park is (A fun story about Chuck Ragen + Tim Barry), the difference between touring in his 20s compared to now being in his 40s, opportunities outside of music on the road, finding an audience in locations outside of England, playing new songs live while mixing in the hits, weekly virtual live show fundraisers during the pandemic, how much Bruce Springsteen influenced his sound after growing up with punk, touring with the Counting Crows, getting on board with making music for a living, touring 50 states in 50 days last year, the current tour with Chuck Ragen and The Interrupters, and meaningful tattoos.
Give it a listen on Spotify and Apple. Don’t forget to leave us review or comment below! We would love to hear from you!
Website: https://frank-turner.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/27M9shmwhIjRo7WntpT9Rp?si=8CtDrY9PRWOr3Q7cuv6LcA
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/frank-turner/108696785
Dylan Baldi joins Behind the Vinyl to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Cloud Nothings legendary record Attack on Memory. This record had countless implications for the band. For Dylan, it was the first record he transitioned over from being the main songwriter who mostly recorded in his parents' basement, and switched over to a more collaborative effort where the full band joined in on the recording efforts. Cloud Nothings had the opportunity to work with Steve Albini for Attack on Memory, and since then Dylan considers this the record that opened the doors "for only being in a band the past 10 years." Before that moment it was only a dream of touring the world and marching along with music writing.
Website: http://www.cloudnothings.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6rnbB5fuUuCSsspvFsxIpT?si=ivG7eKmzQ0-L3RV_rA6n2Q
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cloud-nothings/377952839
Bandcamp: https://cloudnothings.bandcamp.com/
It has been over a month since the phenomenal record release weekend of Screaming Females' album labeled Desire Pathway. There was a ton of excitement in the air leading up to the release and the band did not disappoint when it came time to finally hit the stage and play the songs. The Scream Females' home state of New Jersey was lucky enough to have the release of Desire Pathway and the annual Garden Party jam packed into a two night celebration. It was a festival loaded with great bands and close friends of the band that made the event to be even bigger and better than ever. The Screaming Females closed out the weekend release run with an intimate setting when they traveled to Philadelphia to play in a record store. All of it felt unreal and too good to be true. If the Screaming Females haven't already proved that they know how to throw a party, they sure gained recognition after this record and set of shows. It was only the start for what looks like it's going to be a huge year for the group.
On this episode give a listen to the early beginnings of the band where they discussed how the group formed and what has kept them together. We hear a funny audio clip about what subjects pop up in the van - including a history/current events lesson. Marissa chats about her solo project and the music she released on her own last year. Marissa also gives us a rundown of the unique art of the band. And of course ... the record iself and that incredible release weekend. Catch the band on tour because they are almost certainly coming to a venue near you in 2023!
Website: https://www.screamingfemales.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3pZ666b6CyO1KGpVYirY0t?si=EkMvaSPtSCOdaR5QtjAJLg
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/screaming-females/311088670
Bandcamp: https://screamingfemales.bandcamp.com/album/desire-pathway
On the eve of the Bouncing Soul's release of Ten Stories High, Steve sits down with Greg Attonito to discuss the upcoming record. With Greg living in Idaho, and Zoom becoming the norm during the pandemic and the current landscape of the world, The Bouncing Souls took a different approach to this album. They threw away the pre-made lyric book and came in with a fresh outlook for the new music. They would have 40-minute Zoom chats to discuss the songs and arrange the music. All of this took place in a span of two weeks. That was the recipe to piecing together these highly anticipated songs.
The excitement is in the air for this record, but I also had the chance to throw in several questions that have been on my mind for as long as I have been listening to The Bouncing Souls. Greg went down memory lane to discuss how Stoked for the Summer became a yearly gig in Asbury Park - stemming from their famous Home for the Holidays three day weekend that came around every year. Greg tells us about a Toots & The Maytals song The Bouncing Souls did during a live stream that will now make it's way on to a Pure Noise compilation. He dives into creating happy songs regardless of hard times that might appear in a song occassionally (for examples the song Anchors Aweigh- a song that came after a motorcycle trip on the heels of a breakup). Regardless of the situation, people will always recognize that the band are friends and that always comes out during songs. Lastly, we hear about several amazing stories about playing at City Gardens.
Songs used:
Shannon's Song
Say Anything
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3mvTAjG7rcyk7DQzLwauzV?si=L7q3wstvSFqE1St0LPzurQ
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-bouncing-souls/2987342
We are visited by Deedee of one of the biggest bands to hit the airwaves this year, MSPAINT. The hardcore group is unique because they made an honest decision of not wanting a guitar when they formed over the pandemic. It was a risk since the public is naturally familiar with loud guitars and breakdowns, but MSPAINT has found a way to not only make it work, but also take the hardcore scene by storm. When Deedee and the rest of the group introduced themselves to Ian Shelton when Militarie Gun visited MSPAINT's hometown - Hattiesburg, Mississippi, little did they know that Ian would return in the near future, this time helping create and record the new album. This album has some of the best collaborations out there right now. Another song features Pierce Jordan of Soul Glo. MSPAINT album is out now anywhere you stream your music. Make sure you check it out!
MSPAINT
Bandcamp: https://mspainthattiesburg.bandcamp.com/album/s-t
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5sn6aQFrJvjsSIuaomA4to?si=9jy_4NLRT4KbPTLAmhQHbQ
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mspaint/1505894775
Podcast
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qihKorPjmz754fECviFha?si=86315d43e5164f68
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-vinyl/id1507304176
This week's guest is the one-and-only Jeremy Bolm! We kick off the podcast talking about his own personal show, The First Ever Podcast, a fan favorite interview based podcast in the music industry. We talk about pre-interview nerves, which Jeremy believes is a positive because it shows that you care - the same goes for the live experience. Jeremy has had countless impressive guests appear on his show, giving us a quick rundown of several special episodes. The First Ever Podcast recently did a live episode that, no surprise, turned out to be a huge success.
This interview also switched over to the music side of things. Jeremy talked about bands collabing and how it's an opportunity to flex just how talented his friends are. He also gets into the reality of touring musicians giving up on their dreams and how being in a band was never a question for him. Jeremy also discusses the Touche Amore members evolving and how he realized early on that he needs to find ways to keep up. Lastly, Jeremy gets into his writing process and how his lyrics are almost always deeply personal. There are also plenty of other fun topics like Jeremy's appearance in the Weird Al movie, meeting Daniel Radcliffe, and doing the Run for Cover record selection - plus how his Revolver interview is the way I found the band Praise (a previous guest on the pod!). Check out his projects below!
The First Ever Podcast:
Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-first-ever-podcast/id1520216207
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1iJGq7WvG0hTEbduwbnc0d
Touche Amore:
Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/touch%C3%A9-amor%C3%A9/433437119
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/16QCJENzcdhwka9bTKYMVB
Ron Gallo takes little for granted, and time is certainly no exception. FOREGROUND MUSIC is not only yet another original take on what's really going on, but also a survey of Ron's primary ruminations on the world from past, present, and future. Still, the substance of these songs--some in-your-face, some buried deep within--is hyper-current, timeless, and relevant as ever. The fourth studio album from Ron Gallo is out everywhere March 3rd on the legendary Kill Rock Stars label--the perfect fit for the pioneering artist.
Josh Jurk of Garden State's own hardcore punk band, School Drugs, joins for interview No. 146. When Jared Hart was on last summer he mentioned some of the best shows from when he was growing up in the punk scene. He mentioned how Josh threw some of the best shows in New Jersey. Josh reminisces about his upbringings in this one. It all started at a local VFW in Manchester with his original band, The Jurks. Fun fact - Marissa from The Screaming Females did all of the artwork for The Jurks. The name has carried with him since and Josh jokes that the a musician's first band name has to be thought out. If you are from New Jersey - stay tuned because we get into a debate about some of the best deli's/restaurants in the area.
All jokes aside, this was an episode that took on some serious subjects. School Drugs focuses on topics that could appear in the community such as addiction and mental health. Josh is the first to speak about mental health. In fact, he took it upon himself at The Fest, one of the biggest rock weekends of the year, and talking about seeing a therapist for the first time. Continuously, Josh can often be found at shows talking about addiction. He has experienced several close friends go through it and supports the charity Harm Reduction. Website can be found here: https://www.samhsa.gov/
Josh also takes the graphic design portion of the band extremely seriously. Check out his page for some samples, he does every design on his own. Josh is full of knowledge when it comes to the images people see of flyers and band tees. In fact, he is a huge fan of Danzig, but not because of the typical music reasons, but because he is a fantastic graphic designer and is big reason for some of the Misfits. School Drugs has some cool shows on the horizon and have seen organic growth over the past year or so. Keep a look out for this New Jersey band!
This interview does not need an introduction - especially if you are from New Jersey. I was super excited to chat with Benny Horowitz because some of my favorite stories to hear from the NJ music scene are about The Gaslight Anthem's New Brunswick days. We covered a lot of ground inside of this hour window. Benny has been in a ton of projects, even when Gaslight was fully rolling. He talked about his days of working at a Rutgers newspaper and not having a perminant home to lay his head during the beginning of his career. There were a lot of nights of eating pizza in a hotel room. Horowitz also discussed an offer to keep stats for the NBA when Gaslight was taking off and having a decision to make - he obviously picked the music path, without hesitation, but had a friend in his ear who believed he was making the wrong decision. There's an epic conversation about musician's using their platform to get a message out, and how Horowitz feel some of his decisions are even more important now that he has kids. Horowitz tells a fun story about a date night with wife. We talked the return of Gaslight and Horowitz releases some of his favorite deepcuts.
Mike and Steve join forces for an epic conversation with multi-dimensional creative Patrick Kindlon. We dive into the current buzzing success of Drug Church, the immortality of Self Defense Family, and the past and present of hardcore. Whether it’s new music from Earth Crisis, the growing momentum of younger bands in the scene like Anxious or GEL, or even a lesson on touring time management in relation to one’s defecation schedule, Patrick’s wit and wisdom is on full display in this chat. A nod to THE hardcore podcast, “Axe to Grind”, PK gives us a full-on “pit report” of a Guns ‘n Roses set he caught in his current hometown, Perth. Catch Drug Church on tour during their Hygiene album cycle in 2023, with new music and more tour dates on the horizon.
Happy New Year! Mike from Twin Shrieks Radio hops back on the pod to interview Chris Teti of the prolific TWIABP. They discuss Chris's work as an audio engineer, how he joined TWIABP over a decade ago, the MySpace era of tour booking into today's world of streaming, an emo documentary that never came out but led to their epic SDRE cover, The Fest FL, setlists, and tales of Horse the Band... listen wherever you get podcasts and be sure to catch TWIABP on the road in 2023 playing the 10 year anniversary of their album "Whenever, If Ever"
We've got Justice Tripp on the pod to talk all things Angel Du$t, Trapped Under Ice, and recent solo endeavors. After being mesmerized by footage of their Sound and Fury set, I know I need to pick Justice's brain on all things rock n' roll. With deep roots in the Baltimore scene, Justice continues to thrive off the community feel of the hardcore scene while continuously creating in an array of musical projects, including work on his label Pop Wig
Everyone knows a Soul Blind cover art at this point. It has a unique blend of colors and leaves the background story open to the viewer’s imagination. Cen is a huge fan of art and has worked on the first few EPs, but when the band had the opportunity to collaborate with Frank Maddocks (Linkin Park’s Hybrid Theory) it was a true full circle moment. That wasn’t the only big name that stepped in to help create this record. Will Yip was a crucial piece of the puzzle for the production side of the album. Cen had nothing but high praise for Yip, saying that he brought original ideas to the table that easily makes it clear why he’s so highly recommended. The debut album “Feel It All Around” has the makings to be an album of the year for countless publications.
Cen and the band is going all out with this band. Soul Blind is falling into the recent surge from hardcore. Cen says that bands like Turnstile are bringing in all walks of life, and although they are two totally different bands, it has opened the door for other groups like Soul Blind. Regardless of popularity, Soul Blind is staying true to themselves. Hardcore is in and Soul Blind are here to say - this record is the exclamation point on the building blocks that were in place over the years for this group from Hudson Valley.
Bandcamp: https://soulblind.bandcamp.com/album/third-chain-ep
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4u8phrcaIdvRzcGq5DcQJa?si=XSM_ZrUlQ1CR5KMYBv2ynA
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/soul-blind/1371944527
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulblind/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/soulblindhv?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Everyone knows a Soul Blind cover art at this point. It has a unique blend of colors and leaves the background story open to the viewer’s imagination. Cen is a huge fan of art and has worked on the first few EPs, but when the band had the opportunity to collaborate with Frank Maddocks (Linkin Park’s Hybrid Theory) it was a true full circle moment. That wasn’t the only big name that stepped in to help create this record. Will Yip was a crucial piece of the puzzle for the production side of the album. Cen had nothing but high praise for Yip, saying that he brought original ideas to the table that easily makes it clear why he’s so highly recommended. The debut album “Feel It All Around” has the makings to be an album of the year for countless publications.
Cen and the band is going all out with this band. Soul Blind is falling into the recent surge from hardcore. Cen says that bands like Turnstile are bringing in all walks of life, and although they are two totally different bands, it has opened the door for other groups like Soul Blind. Regardless of popularity, Soul Blind is staying true to themselves. Hardcore is in and Soul Blind are here to say - this record is the exclamation point on the building blocks that were in place over the years for this group from Hudson Valley.
Bandcamp: https://soulblind.bandcamp.com/album/third-chain-ep
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4u8phrcaIdvRzcGq5DcQJa?si=XSM_ZrUlQ1CR5KMYBv2ynA
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/soul-blind/1371944527
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulblind/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/soulblindhv?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
We have Chance and Elle from Kerosense Heights for episode No. 137. I remember my first interaction with Kerosense Heights - it was an Instagram message with a SoundCloud link that had 2 or 3 of their earliest songs. The band has been on a fast track towards emo revival since then. They have hints of Midwest emo with the twinkly guitar riffs and screeching vocals, but they also branch out to their punk routes and are not afraid to experiment when it comes to creating a new jam. Kerosene Heights acts like a band that has been together for 10 years. Part of the reason for that is due to the fact that they have already been included on some cool bills (The Fest in particular) and have countless demos for their growing audience. But, they also have the energy that long-term bands seem to lose over the years. Chance has hit social media hard, making connections with other bands and simply getting the band's name out. They may be new in band years, but early implications say that this band will be a steady act in the emo scene for years to come.
We have Chance and Elle from Kerosense Heights for episode No. 137. I remember my first interaction with Kerosense Heights - it was an Instagram message with a SoundCloud link that had 2 or 3 of their earliest songs. The band has been on a fast track towards emo revival since then. They have hints of Midwest emo with the twinkly guitar riffs and screeching vocals, but they also branch out to their punk routes and are not afraid to experiment when it comes to creating a new jam. Kerosene Heights acts like a band that has been together for 10 years. Part of the reason for that is due to the fact that they have already been included on some cool bills (The Fest in particular) and have countless demos for their growing audience. But, they also have the energy that long-term bands seem to lose over the years. Chance has hit social media hard, making connections with other bands and simply getting the band's name out. They may be new in band years, but early implications say that this band will be a steady act in the emo scene for years to come.
We've got Chris Sutter of Chicago;s Meat Wave fresh off their banger of an album, Malign Hex. We talk tour, song dissection, Fiona Apple, The Fest, the EP Volcano Park, and pizza hot takes.
Bandcamp: https://meatwavechicago.bandcamp.com/album/malign-hex
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1BFVh82YuUOyM8XKZIRaBL?si=sNsUf_RnQd-tEuBitROc1g
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/meat-wave/637624800
Twitter: https://twitter.com/meatwaveband?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meatwaveband/?hl=en
We've got Chris Sutter of Chicago;s Meat Wave fresh off their banger of an album, Malign Hex. We talk tour, song dissection, Fiona Apple, The Fest, the EP Volcano Park, and pizza hot takes.
Bandcamp: https://meatwavechicago.bandcamp.com/album/malign-hex
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1BFVh82YuUOyM8XKZIRaBL?si=sNsUf_RnQd-tEuBitROc1g
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/meat-wave/637624800
Twitter: https://twitter.com/meatwaveband?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meatwaveband/?hl=en
Traveling across the pond to chat with The Losing Score (UK), fresh off the release of their debut album, "Learn to Let This Go." The album has a catologue of songs that were pieced together over the course of three years. Each song has a special story behind it that the band members remember vividly. Tune in to hear the fun stories from the making of this hit Counter Intuitive record!
Website: https://www.thelosingscore.com/
Bandcamp: https://thelosingscore.bandcamp.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4akepHdNXWoyUYf3I5Re01?si=buS0rWCQT0uHw-GFQa5kVg
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-losing-score/1444815118
Zach Blair of Rise Against joined us for this one. We went over so much during this interview! Blair is someone who is always focusing on music in some capacity. Whether it's his podcast, seeing his brother Doni's band (Toadies) on the road, or playing in his band - he's always moving. His podcast, Anti-Hereos, started this year. In some ways, his father served as a hidden inspiration for his current podcast. His father's all night request hour was his own corner of the show biz. Now, Zach is behind the mic for his podcast. Zach wanted to be involved in music from day one. He knew from the start that he was going to play music or die trying. It would one day become his main source of income.
We discussed the music scene with a full conversation about the evolution of punk and how touring has changed from the days when he had to use payphones and road maps to get around. Additionally, we reviewed the term "sellout," and discussed Dan Ozzi's hit book since Rise Against had a chapter in it. Last year Blair had a full circle moment when Rise Against went on tour with the Descendents. To this day they are one of his favorite bands and a big influence for his first band, Hagfish. His journey in music has been filled with countless connections. One that eventually led to meeting the members of Rise Against, clicking with them, and joining the band.
A candid conversation with Carl Shane of Kal Marks, who are wrapping up an extensive tour in support of their new record, My Name is Hell (Exploding in Sound Records). We go into the bands new lineup, staying busy during the shutdown (including a conversation about Great Scott closing), how cool it is to simply just play guitar, and the overall mindset of a creative with many years of DIY music experience. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://kalmarks.bandcamp.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1Yv0Obn2mIOsryAqqXHP89?si=K8rgdI8MR96ca6KBQYIj_Q
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/kal-marks/719546358
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kal_marks_the_band/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/KALMARKSBAND?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
We’ve got Dan Campbell of the wonder years! Awesome episode highlighting their new album (name) where Dan confidently asserts this is the best material the band has put out. We also tackle parenting while being a musician, Dan’s earliest involvement in music, his love for still playing acoustic, and more.
The Wonder Years Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0nq64XZMWV1s7XHXIkdH7K?si=fSHOls_AQ0-TSrMuwKSkeg
The Wonder Years Apple:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-wonder-years/485571263
The Wonder Years Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewonderyearsband/?hl=en
The Wonder Years Twitter:
https://twitter.com/thewonderyears?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
We’ve got Dan Campbell of the wonder years! Awesome episode highlighting their new album (name) where Dan confidently asserts this is the best material the band has put out. We also tackle parenting while being a musician, Dan’s earliest involvement in music, his love for still playing acoustic, and more.
The Wonder Years Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0nq64XZMWV1s7XHXIkdH7K?si=fSHOls_AQ0-TSrMuwKSkeg
The Wonder Years Apple:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-wonder-years/485571263
The Wonder Years Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewonderyearsband/?hl=en
The Wonder Years Twitter:
https://twitter.com/thewonderyears?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Mike of @twinshrieks Radio taps back in and converses with Sarah and Susan of Charlotte NC's fuzzed out @fayeisaband. They go over Faye's new album You're Better (@selfawarerecords), including some unexpected shredding and genre battles of shoegaze versus fuzz-gaze. Other topics include seltzer shopping, touching Kim Gordon's bass, sharing the stage with Solange, their upcoming Fall tour, and Frantic freaking City. Check out Faye and also Sarah's podcast with our good friend Josh @spinningoutpod (not an #ad... yet).
Check out the radio version of the interview! https://open.spotify.com/episode/0IBCcmoz76ZugExbyAySmx?si=21a353cd7303426a
Faye's Bandcamp: https://fayeisaband.bandcamp.com
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/fayeisaband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fayeisaband/?hl=en
Nearly four years passed between the release of Pool Kids’ first album and their most recent self-titled—but four years without an album doesn’t mean four years of inactivity. While “Safe Sex” stands on its own as a DIY release, the difference in processes between their two full-lengths is impressive. With a new goal to write with a wider range of listeners in mind, Christine challenged herself to create a more comprehensive final product. And with help—and at times, tough love—from her bandmates, even the casual listener will agree: Pool Kids has delivered. Now, they’re heading out on tour as they continue to exceed expectations, so catch them while you can and experience Pool Kids at their best yet.
Website: https://www.poolkidsband.com/ Bandcamp: https://poolkidsband.bandcamp.com/album/pool-kids Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6yoW6SfviQ5D4Wa5jGxh7f?si=MnJZ8qGcS1urXGm5uEwm1g Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/pool-kids/1398931438 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poolkidsband/?hl=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/poolkidsband?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Kat Moss of Bay Area hardcore punkers Scowl join the pod for a triple threat, as BTV host Steve and Mike of Twin Shrieks Radio tackle cohosting and go over the continuous buzz around the world of Scowl. From last summer's R.B.S. gig that'll forever live in Bay Area hardcore lore, touring w/ Limp Bizkit, playing Outbreak Fest overseas to the massive return of Sound and Fury Fest in Los Angeles... AND most recently rocking the hell out of a New Jersey Sonic Drive-In ... Scowl continues to blaze a trail of triumphant hardcore and expression across the globe. Further topics include Bay Area geography specifically the areas around Rohnert Park and our combined love for Ceremony, engaging with and avoiding hardcore TikTok, favorite riffs, the legend of FUBU MAN, and many more. Stick around for a bonus playlist + content on @twinshrieks radio, available now via @bffdotfm and Spotify
Flyer by @roswizzle Check out the radio version of the interview over on Twin Shrieks Radio: https://open.spotify.com/show/2MFzopilz0a4fM7CN9z6TL Scowl on Bandcamp: https://scowl831.bandcamp.com/ Scowl on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6hW33nVHPElaXuG2hQ0QOp?si=cQ1pO0fjT5Whu46F0iXSpQ Scowl on Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/scowl/1463439930 Scowl on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scowl40831/?hl=en Scowl on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Scowl40831?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Mike from @twinpeakssessions is back hosting his third consecutive BTV episode, this time joined by Austin Stemper of Praise (@llinadream). The guys find common ground in feeling too old for TikTok, dissecting fests such as @soundandfuryfest (where Mike got to see Praise for the first time), @thefestfl of course, and Austin provides an informative look at the past and present of Virginia's beloved DIY gathering, MACROCK. Also included is a vocalized "walking tour" of the city of Richmond VA featuring many different Avail lyrics, finding inspiration through the Revolution Summer era and making it your own, and lastly what's next for Praise as they continue to impress with their excellent 2022 record "All In a Dream" (@revelationrecords). Listen wherever you stream podcasts!
Mike from @twinpeakssessions is back hosting his third consecutive BTV episode, this time joined by Austin Stemper of Praise (@llinadream). The guys find common ground in feeling too old for TikTok, dissecting fests such as @soundandfuryfest (where Mike got to see Praise for the first time), @thefestfl of course, and Austin provides an informative look at the past and present of Virginia's beloved DIY gathering, MACROCK. Also included is a vocalized "walking tour" of the city of Richmond VA featuring many different Avail lyrics, finding inspiration through the Revolution Summer era and making it your own, and lastly what's next for Praise as they continue to impress with their excellent 2022 record "All In a Dream" (@revelationrecords). Listen wherever you stream podcasts!
Mike D of Twin Peaks Sessions taps in again as host and banters with Matthew Berry to hype up the new Berries record “High Flying Man” out this Friday via Run for Cover ! The boys also crack the code on the algorithms and the myths of “presaving”, the worst coffee shop in Los Angeles, voice memos turned jams, and what’s next in the forever rocking world of the Berries. LA folks check out their record release show at the Zebulon 8/22, and then a west coast run with Narrow Head and Bedlocked late September into early October.
Mike from Twin Peaks Sessions and host of Twin Shrieks Radio took over the mic in this one, chatting with Matteo of Superbloom. They discuss the camaraderie and like minded approach of the band which has kept their consistent OG lineup since the start, their 2021 breakthrough album Pollen, touring for the first time, and of course playing and also soon returning to the Mecca of punk rock, Gainesville FL for The Fest. Bonus radio edition of this show, including a handpicked 90s medley from the guys in Superbloom, available now via Twin Shrieks Radio. Also airs live every Tuesday!
Twin Shrieks Radio with Superbloom interview: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7IvrBnpLfyymdppgdeIPvL?si=7I5ijQARQw-DdFj1nLgWyg
Twin Peaks Sessions on Twitter: @TwinPeaksSesh
Twin Peaks Sessions on Instagram: @twinpeakssessions
Superbloom bandcamp (straight to their amazing record Pollen): https://superbloom.bandcamp.com/album/pollen
Superbloom on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3xdggitmc1vFAChxAwhIIL?si=Pbk_NPNiQOaMMubTzZFvqQ
Superbloom on Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/superbloom/1361363054
Superbloom on Instagram: @superbloomnyc
After 10 years of waiting, the return of Algernon is official and we had the pleasure of chatting with Peter Helmis for one of their first public interviews back! A few months ago Twitter had a top 10 most inspirational emo bands list making its rounds through the music community. Algernon Cadwallader was popping up on most of the lists on people’s timelines. Little did people know that the band was planning a reunion tour. It was the surprise of the year, something that no one expected. The band didn’t want to just do a one-off show either, they wanted to make it big with a tour that has multiple Philly dates and a stop at The Fest. I really enjoyed this conversation. Listen to us talk about the making of the comeback, their excellent discography, and so much more!
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1BfYXNfaB5HBwHn4gxnEQE?si=qecL82PeR1ODKIzW7y5B1Q
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-vinyl/id1507304176?i=1000570797818
Instagram: https://instagram.com/algernoncadwalladerband?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y
Bandcamp: https://algernoncadwallader.bandcamp.com/album/algernon-cadwallader-2
Maxwell Stern came up through a DIY punk community just like most musicians who are currently playing "guitar" rock. It was a time of showing up to basements and dreaming of eventually being able to play the songs that were blasting on the stage. Music is trial and error. There are a lot of mistakes made along the way. Stern admits he had to write a lot of "bad" songs before the "good" songs started to happen. A musician always has to find their voice and embrace the journey. Now, Stern is in several bands and even has a solo project. He sticks to the old Tom Petty slogan of "Don't bore us, get to the chorus." Although, every so often he will get a little extra with his song writing process. Stern feels like he is now writing his best music yet. Signals Midwest just came out with a record labeled Dent earlier in the year. His other band, Timeshares, just released a single called "Siren Sound." The two bands are both touring again, including a Signals Midwest tour this month going into August. When journalists and the media talk about Stern's projects the word "underrated" is often used. Stern spent most of his 20s trying to get booking agents and record labels involved with his bands. Now, Stern is just happy to be able to play shows and still have an audience for his music. Musicians go through a lot of trials to continue to get their music out to listeners. They have to work day jobs and bypass their other hobbies. But, it's all worth it when there is a filled up room at a show or people are reaching out about a new song or record.
Each time Tijuana Panthers release a new record, they often hear that same familiar statement: “this is your best record yet.” Many bands might hear this and feel as though they have arrived, while others use it as motivation to continue to outperform themselves. But Chad, Phil, and Dan seem unbothered by the phrase, perhaps from hearing it directed toward nearly every release. Now in their forties, the band members have day jobs, families, and/or additional musical projects—all factors that might inhibit growth for some, but that have allowed this band to live on in its purest form, and presumably for many years to come. Aptly named, their latest release, Halfway to Eighty, takes on challenging themes of time and reflection, and although the album’s core found its way to the surface inadvertently, such is the nature of Tijuana Panthers: a band that is so established, its creative fire is best sparked without intention.
Website: https://tijuanapanthers.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5XGoUe0WjmbOtppHlB7Taf?si=_XQAemCGQCyFDTUHdQal6w
Had Nick from Toledo’s emo poppers @equipment_ohio on the pod to discuss what they’ve been cooking up recently, including two rad Death Cab covers, opening for Tigers Jaw, and more recent gigging from the life of a dedicated DIY minded musician. We also dive deep into navigating mental health alongside creativity, and the importance of open and honest communication in everything you do. Available wherever you get your pods!
Supercrush started out as a studio band. They would record songs and put them out, but never really did much after that. At the time, Mark Palm was the rhythm guitarist in a popular metal band. But, he always wanted a project like Supercrush. One that was his own and he gave him the chance to release his personal feelings in music form. Palm is the captain of this ship. The band continues to grow and is much more than a studio band. In 2020 they released “Sodo Pop” on Don Giovanni Records. It was 10 solid songs that served as an introduction to the band for so many music fans out there. This was finally when Supercrush went up a gear. They raised the bar for themselves. The band recently released an EP labeled “Melody Maker” on June 3. It’s a collection of five songs that were recorded during the “Sodo Pop” era. Palm recorded 15 songs at that time with the intent of following up the full-length album with an EP. It was his job to pick songs that matched together. “Melody Maker” holds some instant hits like Melody Maker and Hey Christine. Make sure to give it a spin and check them out on their tour which started on June 16.
Bandcamp: https://supercrush.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2GsTkDMG1FG8xObGsCbLy6?si=OOMlqT4ySWGyMo-Hsv7VPQ
Instagram: https://instagram.com/supercrushofficial?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/supercrushmusic
Joel Kirschenbaum has been involved in music quite literally his entire life, whether it’s been booking local shows, managing his best friends’ bands, or writing his own music and performing it with his friends. His approach to the world of music is a special one—in his mind, music is far too important to be left playing in the background and forgotten about. It deserves our full attention, and an intentional approach. Similarly to how he uses his visual art, music is Joel’s way of journaling, and cataloging the most important moments in his life. “Kingo” is his latest series of reflections and experimentations, and should be embraced for the first time with an open mind. Although the album was written entirely by him, this project and his life in music could not have been made possible without his large group of close friends—he is sure to express the privilege of spending his days living, working, and creating with his favorite people in the world, and what could be better than that? “Kingo” was released on June 3! Check it out!
Bandcamp: https://kingofheck.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6cihgrtw6WjyWOwf1P2sa6?si=uhwj62YHRb6kOLG3nLdVdA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kingofheck1?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Twitter: https://twitter.com/klngofheck?s=21&t=IDCcCRmiVltPiL0kyHcUuA
With a desire to bring change within an angry world, Shawna Potter formed feminist punk band War on Women in 2010. Potter was pissed at the world and music was a chance to make a stand. Potter felt things were getting worse and she didn't want to hold back how she felt. Music was a way to rally for a change.
There have been great strides in the acceptance of feminism. But, any time society takes a step forward, there will always be people who are resistent. So, War on Women continues to have the same topics in their songs.
One way to describe Potter's stage presense would be comfortable. Growing up she was always interested in performing arts and was involved with theater. Eventually Potter traded theater in for a guitar and got into punk music. Her music is important because it has a message that means so much to Potter and so many people who attend War on Women shows.
Letting go of what society expects from her and being free is something Potter takes pride in. However, taking a stand means having to be informed, which is something that Shawna is. She has written a book called "Making Spaces Safer." She also runs a podcast labeled "But Her Lyrics." This is not only a fun interview about Potter's journey in music, but it's extremely informative one too. Check out Potter's work below.
Website: https://shawnapotter.com/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/shawnapotter
War on Women Bandcamp: https://waronwomen.bandcamp.com/album/wonderful-hell
War on Women Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waronwomen/?hl=en
War on Women Twitter: https://twitter.com/waronwomenband
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2cRFZn5EhqH0Wu1gHlOHlz?si=m0QHfCHWRamsraEpImwqDw
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/war-on-women/494908340
We have some New Jersey love for this one! Jared Hart of Mercy Union and formerly of The Scandals joins the pod in episode No. 116. There are some incredible stories about Hart growing up in the punk scene of NJ. Hart has been hooked on punk since hearing Rancid in the school yard at a young age. It continued throughout his time going to the Asbury Lanes and some of New Jersey's punk venues. Music eventually opened up his world. He was finally able to see the world being in a band, something Hart never thought he would be able to do. He also made valuable friendships which he still holds close to him to this day. Jersey is often considered a "B market" when people plan tours with New York and Philly surrounding the state, but a bunch of the great bands are here (for example Bouncing Souls, Gaslight Anthem, and The Front Bottoms). Hart talks about bands around him growing up and how they paved the way for his ability to tour and continue to write songs. Some awesome bands mentioned in this episode and Jared has incredible stories from when he was breaking into the scene. In the words of Hart: "Everyone knows a band is from Jersey, no one is hiding it."
We also go into some deep subjects like watching his best friends leave bands and music as whole, and trying to keep the passion for writing through all of that. Hart says music is the only thing he is comfortable doing and the only thing he ever wanted to do. We also hear about Scandals stories, a band that accomplished so much, and never truly had a formal ending - but Hart says he was burnt out from playing the songs (leaves the door open for a show sometime down the road). We close out this episode talking about his current project, Mercy Union, and what they are currently working on.
Mercy Union's Bandcamp: https://mercy-union.bandcamp.com/
Mercy Union's Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/08eGPyS005nVx8IRjCCCpz?si=IOnSiDOPQPeH73WSv7l8pQ
Mercy Union's Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mercy-union/1420541275
Mercy Union's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercyunion/?hl=en
Mercy Union's Twitter:https://twitter.com/mercyunionband
Jared Hart's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jhart201/?hl=en
Jared Hart's Twiier: https://twitter.com/J_Hart201?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
The Scandals Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/213HSYK6tyTn72h49m1Jen?si=oqK6YhYWQkm9s3H1nT3GWw
The Scandals Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-scandals/126394537
Check out our interview with Philadelphia's own, Carly Cosgrove, who released an album back in March called "See You in Chemistry. We go in-depth about the record, hear the definition of Philly Nostalgiacore, talk about every song having a Nickelodeon reference (of course), and touring (especially the farewell run with Retirement Party). Listen to the band below!
Bandcamp: https://carlycosgrove.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4h3DxZa1JxZhSB1a64ziKx?si=X-oVQmgNQVCYqM8XTvn21A
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/carly-cosgrove/1477284720
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlycosgrovepa/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CarlyCosgrovePA?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarlyCosgrovePA
Audio edited by Mike Donnelly
Graphic by Rosemary Young
Camp Trash is a real band I'm in it. That is the exact quote that could be found across a tee shirt the band put out last year. It's a slogan that quickly became a fixture in the DIY emo community, and even branched away when Brian Fallon could be found sporting the shirt. The joke began when Keegan would write on his Twitter for months that he was in a new band. No one believed him because there was a name out there, but no music. Camp Trash's story is a bit backwards. They grew a following on social media before even releasing a song. Keegan says its because he and Bryan are lazy at times. They will get going on something and then keep it in the wraps. Bryan states that it took Keegan 10 years into their relationship to finally say "hey, we should go record these songs." Camp Trash finally became official when they played a coffee house show with Worst Party Ever. It was a farewell show for their old band and an introduction for Camp Trash. The rest is history. The EP "Downtiming" came out in 2021 and showed that their music is for real - both literally and metaphorically. Now, the band has a huge announcement coming in the next week or two. Keep an eye out on their socials!
Bandcamp: https://camptrash.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/217Q1QeePZbm3dMpwPgXK9?si=ftE1IJbVQSy9AG_SUj7DVQ
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/camp-trash/1547525333
Instagram/Twitter: @camptrashfl/@camp_trash
Tigers Jaw is at a point in their careers where they can schedule a last minute tour and still pack a room when they come to town. That’s exactly what happen when their tour with Circa Survive was cancelled back in January. The last time Tigers Jaw toured was back in 2019 so they knew that it was time to hit the road again. After hitting the drawing board, the band decided to piece together The Last Minute Magic tour which took place in February and made its way to California in early March. I was lucky enough to catch Tigers Jaw in New Jersey and I remember chatting with Brianna about heading to California directly after the show on a 5am flight. The tour life can be demanding at times, but it was a nice feeling for the band to be back on the road and they welcomed that 5am wake up call with open arms. Every night had a lot of energy and the fans were excited to see the band on. Tigers Jaw put out an album last year called “I Won’t Care How You Remember Me.” The band didn’t get to do a tour for the album, but it still received a lot of attention. In this Brianna talked about writing songs that she wants to put out and that have meaning at that point of her life. We also discussed a bunch of other topics such as Brianna’s creative personality, starting out in Scranton (including their relationship with the Menzingers), her decision to finish college even when the band was getting offered some big tours, Charmer being a turning point, and when she picked up writing responsibilities. Check out the band below! Bandcamp: https://tigersjaw.bandcamp.com/album/tigers-jaw Spotify: https://tigersjaw.bandcamp.com/album/tigers-jaw Instagram/Twitter: @tigersjaw
James Goodson hasn't been known to go around advertising Dazy. His music has been more of an organic growth. In fact, when people do stumble across Dazy, they often don't even know that James is the genius behind the music. That's exactly what happened to me. When Dazy connected with Militarie Gun to put out one of the best songs of the year, "Pressure Cooker," I knew I had to chat with someone about it. After sending out a few emails, including one to James, I got a reply saying "Dazy is actually my band." James loves experimenting and creating music, but he also enjoys his business, Let's Go Publicity, where he has a loaded roster. After letting the songs take up storage on his computer, James is ready to show the world his music. In fact, he is playing live for the first time with Dazy. Check them out below!
Bandcamp: https://dazysound.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2pe1uLYghU4lj6Fe6qq8k6?si=rMulHanKS3Cff2SHKL2vpA
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dazy/1550452822
The buzz was real in february. Every Friday is considered "new" music Friday for most media sites where everyone tries to get the latest scoop on what people will be listening to throughout the day. If you visited any comment section on February 24, then you most likely saw someone make a note about the song, "The Lost Art of Shutting Up." I initially heard about Totally Slow when they released their epic record called "Casual Drag." I kept thinking about how Refresh Records had found a good one and they better project this band to the world. The band followed up their third album with their February single, which was originally on a complilation album, but the group thought it made sense to release it as a single as well. When I started to poke around someone even told me "they should be the biggest band on the label." That is when I knew I had to have Scott on to talk about the new release and so much more. If you are a fan of 90s hardcore punk, then this is the place for you. Scott has been destined for this ride since his early days when he would pass around Dead Kennedy and Agent Orange cassette tapes on the bus. Now, he is opening for bands like Agent Orange. Check Totally Slow out below!
Bandcamp: https://totallyslow.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4ylV0VfqS89KdZCuNoJxJ0?si=sdcg5uIgSwWiV09QRrlhIg
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/totally-slow/560128834
Instagram/Twitter: @totallyslow
In this episode Jack sits down with Pat Graham of Philadelphia’s own Big Nothing! They just released their sophomore album labeled, “Dog Hours,” via Lame-O Records. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://bignothin.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/29w4I1Z1XBfrr8opjHdofd?si=aFktnxt9Qs2Fz60hf0Irbw
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-vinyl/id1507304176?i=1000555536297
Instagram/Twitter: @bignothin/@bignothingbabez
For this interview we sat down with Andrew of The Carolyn to talk about their new single "99 Probles, 0 Caveats." The discussion with Andrew will be featured on New Noise Magazine's website! Check out The Carolyn below!
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0pkk28XZtAXYfIQyhtIhAm?si=pHrnN-guRQmtXYQpL2ULAg
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-vinyl/id1507304176?i=1000553371793
Bandcamp: https://thecarolyn.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @the_carolyn
Grady and the rest of Anxious just needed a chance. That's what they got when Pat Flynn from Fiddlehead came into the picture. After they put out a demo in 2017, a friend of theirs sent the demo to Pat. They had never met Pat and he never met them either. But, a few days later Pat decided to make a major post about how great Anxious is. Grady says his jaw dropped to the ground when he saw that. Soon after they were asked to do a few shows with Fiddlehead. Pat has always been in their corner and told people to give them a chance. Grady says Anxious probably would have never played outside of Connecticut, or even their hometown for that matter, without having Pat start to the conversation. It led to so many other things like the record you are listening to today.
Anxious recently put out one of the most highly anticipated records of the year called, "Little Green House." It was the most time they have worked on an album, putting long hours into the music at the drummers house.. Grady and the band were consistently writing music during the pandemic. No tours were happening, which gave them all the time in the world to write a record. It was the first time Grady felt like music was his job. The hard work paid off because "Little Green House" is receiving endless praise. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://anxious18.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4uOeSBqJoBz5OrxrsrTboH?si=Bo04Cot7TnaecgPSTtRpkQ
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/anxious/410766179
Songs used:
In April
Call From You
A night drive can be anything you want it to be, from a moment of silent reflection to a loud night out with great music and better friends. And just like the title of the band's new album, the appeal of VHS Collection is universal: however you receive their music, you're doing it right. One discussion with guitarist Conor Cook reveals an immediate passion for music - the same drive shared by all three members, and the driving force behind the band's continuous success. We recommend listening to the new Night Drive in the car after dark for the full effect, but no matter where or when you listen, VHS Collection will always have your back!
For Vince, music is everything. He will admit that he was timid in social settings and at times, outright uncomfortable. But, that changed when he found music. He was able to express himself in a new form and it eventually built confidence. The same goes for Chad, it's a way to express himself. Like all humans, their feelings change daily, which can be a constant grind while playing shows and trying to find time to write music. But, they both agree that it's all about finding new ways to channel those emotions, because at the end of the day music is a way to connect with others. Modern Color is coming into 2022 strong. In the fall they released an EP called Now, Life is Living You. It was the first release since 2020 when they put out a full-length album that included top songs such as Pale, Empty Rooms, and On & Off. Modern Color has a special year coming up -- they haven't stopped writing music and plan to put out more songs once they are ready. They also have a cross country tour that has a California kick off show on Feb. 10 and picks up again in March. There is plenty more about Modern Color in this episode and also a few extra stories about Vince's other band, Militarie Gun. Check out the band below! Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6bayHl2VHbIseMg1jby37l?si=DZ8VIFiKSEiEM3jR0kttRA Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/modern-color/1117669700 Instagram/Twitter: @moderncolorband
For Sam and Logan, they are the "Mario Brothers" when it comes to Greet Death. They always have their eyes fixated on the next goal or step in the process. Some would call them hard workers, but for the two best friends, even brothers at this point, it helps them not get caught up in the stress and depression that comes from life. The band is always working on new music, and while on the road they like to line up shows so that they don't have a night off. It's so that they can debrief real quick and move onto the next part of the process without getting caught up in their thoughts.
For many, Dixie Land was an introduction to the band from Michigan. Logan recalls working at Dairy Queen when he took a break to look through his phone. That is when he saw Pitch Fork's review about their album. Logan remembers thinking to himself, "I am not just a Dairy Queen worker, I am a real musician." The band finally had the recognition they deserved. However, Sam says it has always been an organic growth for the band. They spent a long time building a fanbase and the release show was a true success. It was certainly a moment that put the band on the map.
Two years later, New Hell was released. It showed the real writing style of Greet Death. Songs that bleed into each other and lyrics that are mostly about their ongoing battle with depression. Sam gives a lot of thought about where songs should go. It's like a cinematic experience, where people shouldn't just skip to the end to rate a movie, they have to watch the beginning and the middle. The same goes for a record. Sam and Logan have always respected records for that reason. You are practically forced to listen all the way through.
Greet Death currently has three new songs out. It continues with the usual theme of depression and other life difficulties. The two lifelong band members recognize that it's not only a chance for them to grasp their own thoughts, but someone else might be able to relate as well. This was another fun episode where you get to see a connection that is like none other. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://greetdeath.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7CddNoU6nKEW7UpcIlJF9n?si=VImDi6yrQsqtKePnDrWmgw
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/greet-death/1255262837
Instagram/Twitter: @deathbois
Have Mercy made a massive announcement at the beginning of the year that shook the music world. They finally released their secrect about coming back after a two year hiatus and their plans on putting out an EP at some point in the future. For Brian Swindle, this was news that he knew would eventually happen, even when the band didn't have discussions about regrouping to write new music. For Brian, the band will always be included in his life in some capacity.
The writing and recording process originally started as trial and error when they came back together. The band agreed that if it all went wrong or didn't feel right, they would scrap the entire EP all together. But, the opposite happened. The Have Mercy members began to fall in love with writing music again. Brian said he has been in a mostly happy mindset since becoming sober and working on his mental health. He had to dig deep for these lyrics because people are familiar to the old sound that he often wrote when he was not in the proper head space. Luckily for the fan, three of the songs will have a similar sound as Have Mercy's first record and the fourth song will be more of a pop song. Regardless, there is excitement surrounding the band about what they are creating.
Brian says the best part about this entire process is they get to do things their way. They don't have a set schedule and they might even self-release the songs. Brian originally stepped away from the band because he was burnt out and had some major life problems he had to face. Now, he is motivated again and is having fun making music.
This episode was such a smooth conversation. Brian is one of the most genuine people out there. We had a great discussion about Always Sunny in Philadelphia, his fiance sticking with him during dark times, the history of Have Mercy, his solo music, and so much more! Check out Brian's work below!
Have Mercy
Bandcamp: https://havemercy.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2UvzehEVGcYTPKNwJSZ2kM?si=TRz44S96QOiP3821N1icRA
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/have-mercy/652237846
Brian's Solo music
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0AOyv7liI6q3QchbAobVS9?si=-CYhIiybSbCmeqoH5_rxTg
When Luke Bentham of The Dirty Nil thinks about lyrics that might sum up his mindset while writing the album, "Fuck Art," he thinks back to the song "One More and the Bill." There is a lyric in the song that reads:
"Gonna smash my TV, and smash my phone. Leave politics alone. Go outside for a while."
That lyric is where his mind instantly wanders. It's because our society often gets so caught up in technology that we forget to appreciate some of the little things that are happening around us. Our phones and social media can take control of our lives. Basically Luke came to appreciate his life more since Covid happened. After being on a consistent grind for several years as the band began to grow more-and-more, and get places on even bigger shows, Luke finally had the opportunity to write songs without a true deadline. He also had the opportunity to play the guitar more and paint, a hobby that he is extremely passionate about.
"Fuck Art" came out on New Years Day of 2021. It received just as much recognition as "Master Volume" did, if not more. The name of the record comes from a community painting class that Luke attended with his mother and sister. An older gentleman was struggling with a painting and asked for assistance. The teacher told him to circle back once he was close to finishing. That is when the gentleman said "fuck art" in front of the whole class.
The album pulls from various different forms of music. Some of the genres that can appear on it ranges from jazz, to thrash, to pop, to heavy metal. Luke listens to it all. It helps him put together songs that he says are different from what the listeners have ever listened to. "Fuck Art" also has a fun story about the cover. It's a fictional dog by Max Loffler. The concept of the album art started with dark sketches but eventually led to Loffler calling Luke in the middle of the night saying it should be a smiling golden retriever with a blue sky.
This episode is loaded with cool stories. You can find a discussion about playing halftime for the Hamilton Tiger Cats. There is also a story about playing the AC/DC song "Riff Raff" at a skate park. Lastly, you can hear how Luke was introduced to the podcast Hardcore History by Mike Kennedy of The Wonder Years. Check out the band below!
Website: https://thedirtynil.com
Bandcamp: https://thedirtynil.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2mGENPk4M4jtaf5D7fDi98?si=Z5p2hqhTRPu8AJY9_5scyQ
Apple: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/the-dirty-nil/910995513
Instagram/Twitter: @thedirtynil
Single Mothers has been a band that I have admired. There is a mysterious feeling behind them. The social media page is on private and the website says that they broke up in 2009, yet still play shows. But, something that you can't deny is that their music rocks. I had the opportunity to chat with Drew Thomson about everything surrounding the band and much more.
Single Mothers started when one door in Thomson's life closed. He was a real estate agent and worked under a boss who drank often. He eventually grew tired of some of the actions from the boss and other employees, and decided to quit the job. That is when he took a stab starting a band. At first, Single Mothers was a spite project. He simply wanted to be better than another local band. It even got to the point where he had two lineups for the band at once. He decided to go with the more talented group and the rest is history (hence the whole band breaking up quote on their website). Thomson didn't expect much from the band, but when they released "Self-Titled" it was his first real opportunity to play outside of London (Canada).
Thomson dabbles between Single Mothers and his own solo project called The Drew Thomson Foundation. Single Mothers has more of a revolving door. Whoever is around to tour and wants to hit the road are welcomed to join. But, at the same time, if a musician decides to sit a gig out, there are no hard feelings and they can join the next tour. We deeply explored the writing process for Thomson. On average he writes about 10 songs a week. We discussed how he decides which song is suitable for Single Mothers and which one will land with his solo endeavor.
Last year Single Mothers released an album called "Bubbles." Thomson had no real motive to put those songs out, but the band's label liked the songs a lot and wanted to put them on Spotify. Throughout this episode we went into a ton of subjects. It includes what he has been up to during the pandemic. That includes hiking and listening to audio books. He also became a big basketball fan and started learning about macro economics. We talked about music reviews and how they are based on personal opinion. Thomson chats about giving up drinking. Check out his projects below!
Website: http://singlemothersband.com
Bandcamp: https://singlemothersband.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2FW1jqwbJgwWT8hTWHgBrq?si=ZY_Iy8AuQtSU3Gmw_275Yg
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/single-mothers/520264239
We had Quinn Christopherson on for this episode. Christopherson got his big chance in music when he won NPR's Tiny Desk contest. The victory was validation that what Christopherson was doing as a musician was enough. It was the first time he ever felt that. He ended up quitting his job to go on tour and has been in music ever since.
Christopherson is from Anchorage, Alaska, which may not seem like an environment where a ton of musicians come from, but Christopherson disagrees, saying that not only are there strong connections in the community, but there is also a huge support system for their musicians. Since the time he decided to focus on only music, Christopherson has been on a mission. He has toured with famous acts such as Courtney Barnett, Lucy Dacus, and Portugal the Man.
Christopherson released a highly anticipated EP on December 14 called "I am Bubblegum." The first song that appears on there is labeled, "Bubblegum," and it's a song where Christopherson searches for who he is. He says if he knew exactly who he was, then he wouldn't have anything to work towards. He's trying to be a better version of himself every day. The song starts at the age of six and goes through the stages of his life. It also has to do with growing relationships as well. Once he began to figure out who he is, his connections in life became more positive.
The other song we discussed was "Good Boy." It was inspired by Shelby Lorman's project Awards For Good Boys. Lorman also has a published book out as well. Christopherson said his friend let him borrow his electric guitar for this song. It was his first time playing electric, after mostly experiencing acoustic. He said he began to strum the guitar and it had so much aggression. Christopherson also states that he had some help from his partner, who would shout out some ideas towards him during the writing process.
Continuously, Christopherson discusses being a transgender man. He gives insight about how society treats men and women differently, something that pops up in his music writing as well. Listen to Christopherson's music below!
Website: https://quinnchristopherson.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0tzC81XDBWtTPfJyUg6O2j?si=bxGwltSVTeSEEigqeH4xnA
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/quinn-christopherson/1458331533
Instagram/Twitter: @quinnchristopherson
It's the 100th episode for the podcast. For this interview we sat down with Carli, Kyle, and Michael of Palomino Blond out of Miami, Fl. The band exploded at The Fest this year in Gainesville. They caught the attention of countless people who made the trip, especially at the pre-fest show. It was their first opportunity to play a big venue since everything opened up again and they took full advantage of it. They are back on track with their old routes. The band feels like they have made valuable friendships and connections from gigging often. They want to play hard and play often. A tour was announced for January where they will be playing throughout Florida and some of the surrounding states, so if you are in the area, definitely make sure to be in attendance!
The pandemic has been tough on everyone, and that statement is no different for Palomino Blond. They had a split come out in March of 2020 and a bunch of press was coming their way, but once Covid happened, Kyle feels like they hit a brick wall. A few months in the band saw a lineup change, where the bassist and drummer left the band. That is where Michael and Peter stepped in and became welcoming pieces of the band. It was a fresh start for the group. A new beginning in a way. It gave them a chance to restructure and develop a new identity. Kyle also says they were more ready to pounce on the world than ever.
Palomino Blond has a fresh record called "ontheinside," which came out on Nov. 19. Most of the songs were written in the summer of 2020, but once they had the chance, the band made sure to rehearsal often to prepare for the release. One of their social media descriptions said the album is for loud minds and soft voices. That is the best way to describe the record. It has a little bit of everything. Check out the band below!
Website: https://www.palominoblond.com
Bandcamp: https://bandcamp.com/download?cart_id=81827116&sig=d6a4bf916cbe9a068c866facd68f1a6d&from=checkout
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0oNZ5XN1TT4aWlxHhx8oWe?si=m_j1xaTORB-dfdpcoPqT4A
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/palomino-blond/1353971807
Instagram/Twitter: @palomino_blond
Welcome to the world of Bliss Fields. A band that Scott Downes started with his former partner and originally named Iris back in 2013. He was on a mission to play shoegaze music because unlike so many other genres, the instrumentals can show emotion -- not only the lyrics. But, like so many bands, Scott experienced a change in the lineup recently. In fact, it was a completely new lineup. That is when the idea to change the band's name to Bliss Fields started flowing through his head. Scott says that it felt like a jumping off point instead of being a new band. Bliss Fields represented a new chapter for his musical journey. One that has been nothing but constant focus and hard work. Bliss Fields released a self-titled EP in August. It served as an introduction for the band. It also sent a message that the band meant business. Listeners were able to get a feel for what to expect from this group. But, that wasn't enough. Bliss Fields went right back to work and continued to work towards a full-length album, which will be out on January 14. Two singles have been released leading into the new album (Clementine & Satisfy). Scott says this is his favorite music he has ever worked with. When he began writing the songs, he started with the guitar first. He wanted the entire album to flow like a movie -- It's very dramatic according to Scott. Plenty of other fun stories are included in this episode! Check the band out below!
Bandcamp: https://blissfields.bandcamp.com/track/what-kills-you-2
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ohoTkOEr07TDpRP1edwMi?si=wR4QfN3MRgGpSUhRvBprNg
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/album/peal-single/1570550421
Instagram/Twitter: @blissfieldsto
Ross Farrar is a punk through-and-through. He grew up in California and listened to some of the legends that came from his home state such as Black Flag and The Circle Jerks. It eventually led to Ross joining a band of his own who became instant hits in the punk scene. His band, Ceremony became known for their wild and physical shows, which put them on notice. Ross is currently in a few projects now. One of his main focuses, SPICE, released their debut sell-titled debut album last year. It brought an alternative sound, which was outside of the typical punk narrative that Ross’ bands have. Nonetheless, it was heavily listened to and received great feedback. On the heels of a successful debut record, SPICE decided to put out two singles this Fall. “A Better Treatment” and “Everyone Gets In” came out in November and brought back that classic punk sound again. Both songs have deep meanings to the band, especially “A Better Treatment,” which is about a friend who passed away. Ross is a huge talent, not only in music, but outside of it too. In this episode we talked about Ross getting his Masters at Syracuse University, his poetry and teaching career, carrying a camera around while on tour, and a bunch of other cool stories related to Ceremony and SPICE. Check out his projects!
SPICE Bandcamp: https://spiceispain.bandcamp.com
Everything is like pancakes. At least that's what Ashley Strongarm says about her music career. Pancakes can be a tricky art. Sometimes the first few don't come out the best, but once you finally make the perfect pancake, you know that you have the recipe for success. That was similar to when Ashley first started singing. It was trial and error trying to find her voice. She still listens back to some of her first videos singing and thinks about how far she has come during this musical journey. Strongarm just released a new single called, "From You," which came out on November 19. It was her fourth single of the year and may be her best work yet.
Ashley held on to “From You” for a little while. The Song itself is about when she went through a tough break up and kept dreaming about the heartbreak. The song served as a reminder at the time that she would wake up and eventually move on. The recording process brought back a ton of emotion, there were times when Ashley had to take a breather and take a trip to get a pretzel because she was beginning to get choked up while singing the lyrics. But, she also put her heart into this song, which is noticeable when you listen.
Ashley brings a ton of fun stories to this interview. One of my personal favorites is about when she was in high school and broke her nose. One of the girls in her class accidentally head-butted her - to this day Ashley has yet to receive an apology. The night before our interview Ashley was attempting to have a self-care night, but that went in the wrong direction when a glass candle jar fell on her foot and popped open her toe. She ended up spending most of the night in the ER. But, she was a trooper and still did the interview in high spirits. She had enough strength to discuss the time she went on a Harry Potter podcast, her move from North Carolina to New York, how she found quick success with Vine, how that turned into a music career, and her pictures that are used for each single. This was a fun interview that had so many great topics. Check out Ashley’s work below!
Website: https://ashleystrongarm.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6Kz9c9jsnBJkX30OiKrYDh?si=rJL1XnWvTT-rKGLOi7Z-gQ
Instagram/Twitter: @ashleystrongarm
You'll Afloat too! We had on Gabby & Josh of the band Afloat to talk about their new song. "Fake Nice," and some of the other happenings surrounding the band. "Fake Nice" is considered the new anthem for the band. "Fake Nice" was written about exactly what it means: people being fake nice. Sometimes people are flat out fake to others so that they can benefit from that individual. In the word of Gabby, "You don't want to let someone get the best of you, but at the same time you want your opinion to be heard." The song is a step in a new direction. Gabby stayed away from the usual post breakup song and brought some attitude to this jam. It also indicates growth for the band. Everything from the vocals, all the way to the recording process is different. Gabby believes this is the best the band has been. She even said that this was one of the first times didn't have to second guess herself with a song. It just naturally flowed from the very beginning.
The band started as a college project. It was supposed to be a one time thing so that Gabby could pass one of her assignments given while at Rowan. She decided to do a release show at Kung Fu Necktie in Philadelphia. The group decided to stay together after the band clicked extremely well on stage that night. The chemistry was there, so they continued to work on music together.
This episode is filled with passion from two music lovers in Gabby and Josh. They both work in music when they are not with the band. Gabby works for a music store and does sound on the side, which Josh mostly dabbles in sound for recording studios and venue. We talked about the various shows they have played and if they have a preference between venues or house shows. Josh states that he has a new found love for house shows because they are more personal. We also chatted about being on stage and how some of the members can be their own worst critics while performing live. It's all about getting through some of the hurdles like technical difficulties or what they perceive as "mess ups." There's so much more to this episode, so give it a listen if you have some time. Check out the band too!
Bandcamp: https://afloatband.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3izZBdNNlvY4pclzk7x3N0?si=67i-5Gu6RWqN_GU9M4T3MQ
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/afloat/1434316293
Instagram/Twitter: @afloatband
Another kick ass interview in the books! If you listen or follow punk music, like many of you do, you have definitely seen Elway pop up on a bill or a playlist. They are always playing at stacked shows. The band is fresh off their 11th trip to The Fest and they also opened for The Menzingers in the beginning of October. Some cool shows have recently been announced such as the War on X-Mas with The Lawrence Arms and kicking off 2022 by playing with Hot Water Music.
Although we don't get too in-depth about band names often, it's hard to miss when a band from Colorado named their group after a legendary football player. But, the ironic part is, none of the members in the band are sports fans. They took on the name of Elway because you see it literally everywhere while driving around in their home state. John Elway owns a car dealership and a steakhouse at the airport. He is even the Denver Bronco's General Manager now. The story doesn't stop there though. Once they took on a new name, they later received a legal email alerting them that John Elway was aware of their band and was giving them a timeline to change the name. That didn't scare the band members away. They used this as publicity. Tim jumped on numerous sports broadcasts to tell their story and they were eventually able to hold on to the new name.
This episode is loaded with cool stories. Tim talks about Red Scare Records and why Toby is such a great guy. We discussed how the goals have changed over time. They now make music as a want instead of a matter of necessity. We talked about their new songs that have been recently released. Lastly, we got to hear a bunch of tour stories -- including a time when Elway got arrested in Russia. There might even be a section where Tim provides us with a list of his top five favorite burrito locations while on tour. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://elwaytheband.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/69bnISFWUBXKydoGSkshAq?si=LuOz4PQ6S-u6i-Zga0YcVw
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/elway/1508152136
Instagram/Twitter: @ElwayBand
Today, we present to you an interview with Jake Ewald of Slaughter Beach, Dog. It was a conversation that had a ton of laughs, some tears, and went down memory lane of an established musician who has accomplished the world with his music career. For Jake, the journey began with the well-known group, Modern Baseball, who started off as a project that most of them did while attending college. What was something that was supposed to be something they would do on the weekends or when they had some downtime, turned into a band that toured non-stop. Jake still remembers when they signed with Run for Cover Records. They received an email of interest on New Year's Day and went to an Outback Steakhouse to celebrate. It became the main focus very quickly and made everyone in the band grow up quick. Jake and a few other members even dropped out of college to continue pursuing music. He remembers the conversation with his family, and how they were not on board with it at first, but now think it's the coolest thing in the world. The band became cherished by many and to this day is still widely listened to.
When Modern Baseball broke-up, they left a message on their social media pages about mental health. To this day I still highly respect them for being so open. Jake was unsure what his path would be at the time or if music would even continue being his focus. He picked up a job and was prepared for life after full-time music. But, Slaughter Beach, Dog quickly grew. Each year he noticed more people in the crowd. They are now several records deep, with "At the Moonbase," coming out last year as a surprise release on Christmas Eve. Jake says that he challenged himself to try new sounds for that record and explore new areas as a musician. He even talks about some of the records, movies, and books that have influenced select songs over the years. The record is incredible, and by now I am sure most people have gave it a spin.
This is a loaded interview. Jake recently moved to the Poconos and chats about traveling to Philly every week to hit the studio. He still has a deep connection with the city that left him with valuable lessons and memories. So much so, that he stays close with a lot of the bands and friends in the scene. You can often find them on tour with him. One of his biggest friendships is with Ian Farmer, who has been there since the beginning of Modern Baseball and now is a huge part of Slaughter Beach, Dog. There is so much to this interview. It was personally extremely special for me. I hope you give it a listen because Jake gave great responses and left us with amazing stories.
Website: https://www.atthemoonbase.com
Bandcamp: https://slaughterbeach.bandcamp.com/album/at-the-moonbase
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3lWVgSwutPsiJ8Awm7OTKU?si=NpVtnEKqRk-CYuPINOJ7Cg
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/slaughter-beach-dog/1074163480
Instagram/Twitter: @slaughterbeachdog/@beatsbydog
"I grew up in a pretty conservative Christian family as a kid and we weren't really permitted to go listen to the radio or listen to music of our own... Of course you don't know that The Clash is the best punk band ever because all you ever get to listen to is the Christian version of The Clash and it f*cking absolutely sucks."
I present to you an interview with Pittsburgh's own, Derek Zanetti, of The Homeless Gospel Choir. Derek grew up in a church-going family and was often told not to listen to punk and other rock music. He didn't have the chance to find his calling until after college, when his friends presented him with the opportunity to attend shows. That changed his life and sparked a fire inside. There was a sense of belonging where people respected the art and music. From that day on, Derek was frequently found in the crowd and even developed his own musical endeavor. The forming of The Homeless Gospel Choir is one that wasn't supposed to happen. But, it's a gift to us all that Derek did find punk music by accident. His music has deep meaning, but with a twist. Derek tries to put a smile on the listener's face while talking about serious topics such as global warming and people depending on technology. That was clear during the most recent album release labeled, "This Land is your Landfill." It's the first time Derek formed a full band for the entire process and at live shows. Chris #2 of Anti-Flag helped find band members and even continued the idea of piecing together a full lineup. They worked hard in the studio -- some days from 9 am until 9 pm. This is a fun interview with someone who brings a TON of energy to the discussion. There are cool live topics like recently hitting the road with Frank Turner in order to build confidence to play his own gigs again and there's even a story about one of Modern Baseball's first ever house shows as a band. Website: https://www.thehomelessgospelchoir.com Bandcamp: https://thehomelessgospelchoir.bandcamp.com/album/this-is-a-protest-song Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EwwyzTYEM8e0a8i1lKPk0?si=Hy9d0kEZSuuhjrEhqf6P9Q Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-homeless-gospel-choir/646153550 Instagram/Twitter: @thgchoir
Behind the Vinyl is back! We bring on Philly’s own, Tom Morris, to talk about Swim Camp’s new album “Fishing in a Small Boat.” Check out the record, it’s a good one!
Bandcamp: https://swimcamp.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/72Kj29MHjpzE18Kw9vvh1C?si=pgiECbdGQpqscY9XdL04xw
Instagram/Twitter: @swimcampmusic/@camp_swim
We had Eamon Sandwith of The Chats on for our most recent interview. We began the conversation with Eamon talking about touring and adjusting to playing in other countries. Not only does a traveling band have to get used to other time zones but also have to become familiar with different music scenes. We chatted about his upbringing and how punk stuck out to him at an early age even though it wasn’t as popular in his area. When the band started in high school, one of the first songs was considered a “throwaway song for a school experiment, but it made its way on to the first EP and is still widely played today.
Like so many bands out there, The Chats released an album as the pandemic started hitting the world. They had a whole tour prepared and were ready for a full roll out. But, Eamon admits, the album still did extremely well even with a pandemic happening, thanks to everyone’s ability to play the songs from their home. Eamon believes the album "Get this in Ya" was the moment the band started to come into their own. Smoko began to blow up across the world when the band was fresh out of high school. Eamon talks about being young when their music started to get big. It was quick success, but still had some obstacles. Eamon says other bands who had been playing longer did not appreciate that they got big so young. He also discusses his songwriting process and talks about how he typically writes about everyday experiences. There’s even a story about Iggy Pop and about how the band had to describe what Smoko and darts are. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://thechatslovebeer.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1aQ7P3HtKOQFW16ebjiks1?si=llcTE5WKScWyHmztb1BENw
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-vinyl/id1507304176?i=1000538724235
Instagram/Twitter: @thechatslovebeer/@thechatsband
We had Casey Crawford of Virginity on to talk about the band's upcoming album, "POPMORTEM," which is coming out on Friday! We also talked about a bunch of other topics such as Fest, Casey's relationship with Eve 6, playing on Audiotree, Casey's comedy career before becoming a musician, and so much more! Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://virginityisrad.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6z2FvIAhD5e2ryd1RKDpIC?si=B7221Jo1TjqPJE14RgcoTQ&dl_branch=1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/virginity/1467727282
Instagram/Twitter: @virginityisrad
Tyler Povanda of Save Face joined the pod for this loaded interview. We covered a lot of ground during it. Tyler says during the interview that he isn't much of a talker in between songs usually, but when I saw Save Face back in July, he said some quotes that caught my attention. The biggest was about almost not wanting to continue before making the songs on this album. Tyler sometimes thinks about what is required from a musician to make it full-time and keep it sustainable. He is aware of the discouragement that can come when making art. Pursuing music in any capacity can be difficult and it's not always rewarding. But, these songs he is extremely proud of and ready to roll them out on October 29 when the album "Another Kill For The Highlight Reel" comes out.
Tyler believes this album is some of the best music he has made. He says that he is objectively better at singing and the listeners will be able to see tremendous growth in terms of vocals. Also, there are far more different elements of instruments on the album. Tyler says that the songwriting is way more evolved. Two songs are currently out, with a third on it's way soon. Glitter is the song and video that reintroduces the audience to the band and shows everyone where they are going. Glitter was originally going to get cut from the album, but after some work, the band felt like it deserved to be on there. Glitter could have found itself on Merci, which is why it was one of the first singles. The song has a poppy/fun sound with really dark lyrics. Bury Me (Tonight!) shows what the album will be like as a whole. Check out Save Face's music below! Bandcamp: https://saveface.bandcamp.com Twitter/Instagram: @savefacenj
Skylar Sarkis of Taking Meds joins the pod for this interview to talk about the band's new release "Lifesaver" and the album that will be coming out on November 9 called "Terrible News From Wonderful Men." We also went into a bunch of other topics too. This interview took place the night before Taking Meds hit the road for their tour with Microwave, Weakened Friends, and Elder Brother. Skylar explains his excitement for this tour and discusses how this is the band's first support tour in several years. Also, we go into the story behind the music agent videos and Skylar's humor on social media as a whole. Skylar goes into great depth about the music industry and finding people who you can trust. We hear about how Taking Meds transformed from a side project to his main focus. He also says that he realized that the band has to be his main focus while he was working for a Tech Company a few years ago. Lastly, we hear about the night that Skylar realized he needed to stop drinking and the backstory behind his journey. Check out Taking Meds below:
Bandcamp: https://takingmeds.bandcamp.com Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1SQ5kDSYuCb4qOJx5itFxz?si=NeW6SA7wRyWI0kHDJBZnEA&dl_branch=1
Instagram/Twitter: @Takingmedsmusic
When I found out that Colleen Dow was working on a solo project, I knew instantly that it would be a huge success. The amount of time and care that Colleen puts into all of their songs just tells the story. Colleen is one of the most passionate musicians out there. This solo project is no different. Abe Anderson (Niiice/Thank You, I'm Sorry) joined forces with Colleen to create this emo-pop masterpiece. There will be five songs coming our way and will come out in six week increments. Colleen knew that they wanted to do something different from Thank You, I'm Sorry. Colleen and Abe heavily experimented trying to come up with new production ideas -- even went into Abe's garage and clanged wrenches together during one of the songs.
Colleen is always writing, there was a period of time where they were writing 10 songs a month. They knew that all of the songs didn't fit the sound of Thank You, I'm Sorry and could be used elsewhere. That is when this solo adventure began. Colleen talks about how we live in an age where there is acceptance behind working on one's self. There is a more comfortable space where people can be heard. Music has turned into somewhere where Colleen can channel their feelings. It's a big reason why they make so many songs. Although, Colleen will admit that there isn't always a full understanding of their emotions until hearing the song back.
Throughout this episode we also chat about Thank You, I'm Sorry, being told that 18-years-old is too old to start in music, and being found by Count Your Lucky Stars on Reddit. Check out Colleen's music groups below!
Colleen's Bandcamp: https://colleendow.bandcamp.com/releases
Colleen's Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1TkYhihp4BiyP0JnhIoyRI?si=fFLvF0RTT-KrWS0cXPWOBg&dl_branch=1
Colleen's Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/colleen-dow/1457786351
Thank You, I'm Sorry's Bandcamp: https://thankyouimsorry.bandcamp.com
Thank You, I'm Sorry's Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1SQbSVOGU3m2YlQQVV88QU?si=pMq7dpInS7aGGCJkwOCGrA&dl_branch=1
Thank You, I'm Sorry's Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/thank-you-im-sorry/1457622013
Instagram/Twitter: @lleencuisine
We had good friend of the podcast, Matt Mucerino, on to talk about his project Crossing i's Dotting t's. What started out as a solo project, quickly grew to a full line-up when Matt continuously put out music and put out a video with Jam in a Van. Crossing i's Dotting t's put out a self-titled EP in August on the weekend of Matt's birthday. Since then, the band has amped up the process and has been playing live shows almost weekly. Matt talks about using his marketing degree with his band. He also tells a story about connecting with Barry Johnson of Joyce Manor who eventually recommended recording with Alex Estrada. Check out Crossing i's Dotting t's below!
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7eNA56CKDh8uHvdk3Dsdbc?si=PrtuC5rqT7GVeLG0OsXlyA&dl_branch=1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/crossing-is-dotting-ts/1528924955
Instagram: @crossingisdottingtsband
Today’s episode is featuring Oldsoul! We have a conversation with Jess and Tom about the growth of their songwriting journey in the band. Beginning in basement venues, and connecting through Jake of Counter Intuitive records, Jess and Tom talk about their journey as a band and their love for connecting with a live audience through their sound. By collaborating and building off one another, they fleshed out what they feel is their sound. They talk about recording, their latest album “You Were Overwhelmed”, and their latest singles, “Safety Net” and “High on Yourself”. Due to the pandemic, the two discuss how diy music is changing, and the influence of social media on bands starting out. Tom speaks of his favorite guitar, his rare Fender Toronado, and Jess talks about how she loves meeting people at shows. Tune into episode 82 to hear the inner workings of Oldsoul!
We had Kevin Nichols on for this exciting interview. Kevin released "Disappointer" on August 21 and goes in-depth about everything that went into this album. The record label, Slang Church, played a huge role in getting this album out. Kevin thinks back to when he released the EP "Long Lungs," and Billy (Slang Church) telling him that he could put out a full-length album while the two were talking outside of an acoustic show. Now, two years later, after receiving the support of Billy, and other members of the Bay Area, the album is getting some buzz. Kevin also talks about playing at Bandcamp Daily, getting into music because his father worked for Bose speakers, moving out to the Bay Area, and getting fired from his job for sticking up for those less fortunate. Kevin is playing in an epic show with Shutups and Slumped on September 25 -- check it out if you are in the area!
Bandcamp: https://kevinnichols.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7qn33U6HT6yKiXys76C70i?si=ffYFOZGVQOCJoAGOm5io_w&dl_branch=1
Instagram: @kevichols
Today’s episode is with the one and only Eric from Heart Attack Man! Eric discusses his love for T-shirt collecting, and his ability to be interactive with his audience. He credits a lot of his love to the way the band interacts with the fans, creating inside jokes and memes on instagram, tiktok and twitter. After highschool was when Eric began truly breaking out of his shell, and he became more comfortable performing on stage and fleshing out his online persona, however he’s still TERRIFIED of the idea of karaoke. He began building confidence in 5th grade, however, when he started making jokes to his teacher and classroom about leaving his books out overnight. Eric discusses the collaboration of the band when songwriting, the different responsibilities of the members, and band dynamics. He talks new releases, and trying to create stories in pop punk and emo. Thank you to Eric for hopping on episode 80, and take a listen to hear the inner workings of heart attack man!
bandcamp: https://heartattackman.bandcamp.com/album/fake-blood
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5esKrGWvWmBAmjnao5jInN?si=aAOCCIQaSRS5w2V_ySyI2g&dl_branch=1
Instagram/Twitter: @Heartattackmanofficial/@HeartAttackMane
We had Julian and Phil of Common Sage on to talk about their exciting new record called “It Lives and It Breathes,” which will be released on September 3. Three singles are out so far, but the entire album is something you are going to want to give a spin! Check out Common Sage below!
Bandcamp: https://commonsage.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3DE3WMda6z9BuyMEQyRNFn?si=fA-rEnQgT2KCDpJOGFmrJQ&dl_branch=1
instagram/Twitter: @commonsage_
Alex Ybarra joined the pod to talk about Ridgeway's sophomore album called "Marlo," which is due out on August 27. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp: https://ridgewayca.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0YcWbcTVIbLSiKiqauYR1w?si=MJmBm7-ISwagaoap_Vbujw&dl_branch=1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/ridgeway/402408648
We sat down with Lea Thomas for this interview. She is fresh off the release of her album "Mirrors to the Sun," which came out on July 23. Lea spent some time in Vermont while recording this album. She transformed a house into a studio. It allowed her to get in touch with nature and sometimes go for a walk through the woods to clear her head. Nature was a big theme throughout this album. Also, the listeners see Lea's love for wolves appear in this release. The song Hummingbird is about a dream she had where she transformed into a wolf -- the full story is incredible and it opens the door to a full discussion about dreams. We also chatted about how Lea's musical journey first began on piano, how she is a visual artist who focuses on hand weaving and natural dyes, and her time spent learning about herbal medicine. Check out Lea's music below!
Website: https://www.lealealea.com
Bandcamp: https://leathomas.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3MSs3mmpFgUz3qXkjOAOtI?si=ZqHWf7zzThKDHAad14J-Aw&dl_branch=1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/lea-thomas/844497687
Instagram/Twitter: @lealeathomas
We had Keith, Ben, Gooey, and John of Parting band on for this interview. With the four members living in three different states, the band found new ways to create their debut EP called “Unmake Me” which was released back in June with Count Your Lucky Stars. There is loads of experience in the band. Each member comes from different projects, such as the influential Empire! Empire! and Annabel The band told us about some of the obstacles they encountered because of distance while making this EP. The difference between when they were first joining bands, to now being in their 30s and having full-time jobs and families. Keith also talks about the unique names he picks for every song. Plus so much more!
Bandcamp: https://partingband.bandcamp.com/album/unmake-me
Instagram/Twitter: @partingband
We sat down with New Jersey's own Joey Walsh of Wyndup Kid to chat about his recent release called "Disco." It's a fear of missing out anthem. Joey thinks back to before quarantine when there were nights that he decided to stay indoors instead of going out. He has decided that he is going to branch out and do the things he loves because they make him happy.
The music is a fun watch. Joey wanted it to fit the energy that the song should display. His manager Matt threw him a loose concept of people dancing and said think of Molly Ringwald in the Breakfast Club. Joey decided he wanted to do dysfunction dancing through the decades. He refused to stand there and perform because it wasn't a live show. There was no plan going in. That is how the fun video came to be. Keep a lookout for Gary in the video! He steals the show!
Wyndupkid has been started several times, but this single is for real this time. It's leading to something exciting. Joey was balancing a job as a garbage man and was always trying to find the right time to put together music. To this day he's till juggling multiple things like working as a music teacher and going to school, but is in a better head space to write music now. Joey came to realize that if he's not in the best place, then the whole thing won't work. Through patience, he was able to work up to Wyndup kid. Check them out below! Bandcamp: https://wyndupkid.bandcamp.com Instagram/Twitter: @wyndupkid
We are extremely excited to release this interview with Kate, KT, and Katie of the band Vial. They just released the album "LOUDMOUTH" on Friday, which is getting a ton of buzz already. The band tells you everything you need to know about their sophomore album. We also hear fun stories throughout like finding the drummer Katie on Tinder, meeting for the first time as a full-band over coffee, returning to shows, a history lesson, being from Minneapolis, and so much more! Check out VIAL below!
Bandcamp: https://vialband.bandcamp.com/merch
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7soK35m8BosPkMQ67t7bqf?si=5FxLsVnVS_6OPpFLQNfxsw&dl_branch=1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/vial/1487411493
Instagram/Twitter: @vialbandofficial/@vialband
Finding the drummer Katie on Tinder, first time they ever met as a full-band was over coffee, returning to shows, get a history lesson and opinions on the current landscape of the country,
We took a trip into the mind of Shannon Taylor of awakebutstillinbed for this interview. Shannon was able to tell us all the details from the band's EP "stay who you are" which came out in December of last year. We heard some stories that not too many people think about when it comes to producing and recording an album. Shannon tells us that vocals is dependent on how the person is feeling on that day. Also, since most music from last year didn't happen in an actual studio last year, Shannon talked about being more involved in the production of the EP since everything happened at home. There are fun stories about the time Jawbreaker joined one of Shannon's livestreams, which led to the creation of the awakebutstillinbed salt girl shirt. We discuss album cycles from the past year and about how band's have a decision on whether or not they want to do release songs or move on to their new material. Lastly, Shannon talks about being from San Jose -- there's even a conversation about the hardcore scene there. Shannon will be doing a solo acoustic run with I'm Glad it's You in August, so if you are out in California, definitely check it out.
Bamdcamp: https://awakebutstillinbed.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0NvYpRJfbFyOI4QdsLJ1Jw?si=MFDGpQy3Rsi8AW00Vz5LeQ&dl_branch=1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/awakebutstillinbed/1343990672
Instagram/Twitter: awakebutstillinbed/absibca
This week's episode is with the one and only Laure Stevenson! Laura discusses with us the journey of being a mom and a musician, her and her husband meeting at a rock and roll summer camp, her journey into the underground tunnels of Disney, and the fun she had shooting her recent music video for ‘State.’ We dive into Laura’s themes in her music, and her hopefulness that being honest and vulnerable in her music will convey to others that they are not alone. As a musician during COVID-19, she discusses her excitement returning to live music, her songwriting process, and her opportunities working with other musicians and artists, having her chance to express herself on her friends' records. Laura Stevensons’s new self-titled record will be out August 6th, and we know we can’t wait! A great conversation with a great artist, check out her work below!
Website: https://www.laurastevenson.net
Bandcamp: https://laurastevenson.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1lVadNivMiSkc2N6irhWdg?si=BKYIsPPDRPi4_c3CWcevIg&dl_branch=1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/laura-stevenson/298214700
Instagram/Twitter: @laurastevenson
We had Colleen Green on for this interview. I remember hearing “I Wanna Be a Dog” for the first time last month and it caught my attention because it has such an upbeat and catchy sound. Colleen’s most recent release “It’s Nice to Be Nice” followed up with the same cheerful sound. We talked about the album coming our way way in September — the first in several years for Colleen. We also chatted about the story behind the legendary sunglasses, a list Colleen made about all of the places she has been to, making shirts by the request, and so much more! Check out Colleen Green’s music below and stay up to date with what she is doing!
Bandcamp - https://colleengreen.bandcamp.com
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0LHZaUvES8NniRWNuhHNJl?si=CjbtkBcsTnabFWDrhFn6Xg&dl_branch=1
Instagram/Twitter - @colleengreen420
This week we bring you a fun filled conversation with the lovely Alicia Boganno from @bullythemusic! We discuss her role as a woman in music and as a recording engineer, and her stride to continue to push women to get more involved with the music industry. She discusses the use of analog on Bully’s first two records, and how she loves …the natural mishaps that make people smile.” Next Thursday kicks off Bully’s first tour post-COVID, and Alicia discusses her excitement for being back on the road. Quarantine had been the longest time she had spent without playing shows in 7 years, and she expresses how unreal it feels to be getting back. We talk about Alicia’s struggle to begin getting into social media at the beginning of quarantine and the process of marketing music and tours with social media as your only main option. Aside from music, Alicia volunteers at a women's shelter, an LGBTQ+ youth counselor, and recently completed training to be an emergency foster parent. She also discusses her sobriety from alcohol and her avoidance from it on tour for the first time, and how supportive the band has been on her journey. Take a dive into our wonderful conversation with Bully!
Website - http://www.bullythemusic.com
Bandcamp - https://bullythemusic.bandcamp.com/album/sugaregg
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/34LdbFt5sVXKTJOzf1iExQ
Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/bully/79012932
Tour dates - http://www.bullythemusic.com/shows
Sent from my iPhone
This interview was a real treat as we welcomed Chris Freeman of Hot Mulligan on the podcast. Hot Mulligan is tuning up for a massive tour with Sincere Engineer, Prince Daddy, and Super American. We got to hear the history of Hot Mulligan and about how they didn't expect to be around for too long. Chris opens up about coming from a small town and how it was either go away to college or work at the local businesses for the rest of your life. We also talked about their music and went into a fun conversation about how the band released an album and an EP over the past year. Chris has also began getting involved with the production side of the business. He took a trip to New Jersey in the fall/winter to learn the ways of engineering a record. He got to work with some cool acts, including Good Sleepy out of Massachusetts. Chris is a perfectionist when it comes to his own personal projects and while he is working in production. He pays attention to everything that goes down in the studio. Lastly, Chris chats about his solo project called "Extra Large Holiday Card." Check out all of his projects below!
Hot Mulligan's website: https://www.hotmulliganband.com
Hot Mulligan on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1lKZzN2d4IqiEYxyECIEHI
Hot Mulligan on Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/hot-mulligan/941918833
Hot Mulligan on Bandcamp: https://hotmulligan.bandcamp.com
Extra Large Holiday Card on Bandcamp: https://extralargeholidaycard.bandcamp.com
We had a really awesome interview with Greg and Amanda of Cheekface. They have been super busy this year by releasing an album "Emphatically No." and a single called "We need a Bigger Dumpster." We talked about the specific style of artwork that Amanda created for the album covers. For their music, Cheekface writes their honest reflection on the world and that continued during their most recent releases. They have a unique style where there are metaphors and creative one liners throughout. Greg tells us about when the idea of "talk singing" came. Also talk about picking songs that sounded right for the album. A cool conversation about letting the band grow organically. Greg and Amanda agreed when they started the band that it would be about the creative fulfillment and not about how much money they are making. It has grown into a fun creation that puts out music that makes others happy. Check out the band below!
Bandcamp - https://cheekface.bandcamp.com
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/32kCEAvtuFzIZA15zrhQDW
Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cheekface/1362262157
Instagram/Twitter - @therealcheekface/@cheekfaceREAL
This interview we take a trip across the pond to chat with Kathryn Woods of Fresh! Some of the topics that appear in this interview include Kathryn talking about her writing style and how she had trouble with choruses early on, so she stuck to quick two minute punk songs. Also, we dive into the music community, especially all of the friends Fresh made when they made their first trip to America. Kathryn discusses the emotions she feels when people compare her to certain bands because they are fronted by a female. She also talks about her busy schedule and what it’s like juggling multiple music projects while working on top of that. Kathryn tells us about living in London and her love/hate relationship with the location. There’s an exciting part of the interview where we talk about tours returning and Fresh’s first show back at a brewery. And, of course, we go into the recent EP called “The Summer I Got Good at Guitar.” Check out the band below!
Bandcamp - https://freshpunks.bandcamp.com/album/fresh
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0q2GJGveytu4IRflsL05Xg?si=ahSLikKMT2aylcJwymGuFw&dl_branch=1
Instagram/Spotify - @freshpunks
Another interview in the books! We had an epic conversation with Anthony Bucci of Broken Field Runner. Anthony just released a song called Shrouds, which was made when he decided to take a trip home to New York back in December at the height of the pandemic. He was living in his parents' basement again and while doing so he received news that literally ripped his heart out of his chest. His aunt had to go through a procedure to remove a cancerous tumor. That day Anthony decided to pick up his acoustic guitar and write. There were feelings of guilt and pain flowing through his body. Guilt because for several years he did not make an effort to reach out to his family and stay in touch. This is a lesson of realizing that family is not there forever, so we might as well put in the work and find out their story while they are still here. Anthony is in the middle of releasing three EPs. Broken was put out last year. Field will be this year. With Runner being the conclusion. This episode had countless amazing stories about his music and more. It's definitely a loaded episode. Check out Broken Field Runner below!
Bandcamp: https://brokenfieldrunner.bandcamp.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/15Z9hqFoZrW1jJuBuh5Q4y
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/broken-field-runner/739976946
Instagram/Twitter: @Brokenfieldrun
We had Josh and Peter of Sore Thumb on for this interview. Sore Thumb is fresh off an EP called Chronically Late that came out in April. We also explored topics like the theme of being late, being at a different point in their music careers (Sore Thumb being a labor of love), the charity compilation album they put together that raised a bunch of Monet for the LGBTQ Freedom Fund, and so much more! Plus, there's a School of Rock reference in this interview! Check out Sore Thumb below:
Bandcamp - https://sorethumbband.bandcamp.com
Instagram - @sorethumbband
This interview brought another opportunity to not only chat with the band, but also bring in the record label as well. We sat down with Tyler Stodghill of Stars Hollow and Eric Smeal and Martin Hacker-Mullen of Acrobat Unstable. We got to take a look at both worlds of music. Tyler talked about the intense cycles of how he feels about music and diy in general. Plus, he is currently going for a masters in school counseling. Tyler would like to continue the band and put out music when he is in the mood, but is unsure about what extent it will be. Tyler is just enjoying the release of "I Want to Live My Life" which came out in May. There's plenty of merch and vinyl available. The album largely talks about mental health and the desire to be better in life.
Then there's the record label side. We had a cool discussion about Dogleg. We hear stories about the beginning of Acrobat Unstable. Eric goes into how the label connected with Stars Hollow and how both sides agreed that the EP would be a trial run. Eric and Martin talk about what they look for in an artist. There's a fun discussion about the business side of the label and being able to do perks like putting a band in the studio. Lastly, there are some interesting takes on reputation of record labels in music. Check out Stars Hollow and Acrobat Unstable below!
Stars Hollow Bandcamp - https://starshollowia.bandcamp.com/album/i-want-to-live-my-life
Instagram/Twitter - @starshollowia
Acrobat Unstable website - https://acrobatunstable.com
Instagram/Twitter - @acrobatunstable
This interview is with Seth and Thomas of Good Sleepy out of Worcester, MA. We had a full conversation about their debut full-length album called “everysinglelittlebit” that came out with No Sleep Records. This album was largely written and recorded during the pandemic. It has themes of wanting to go back to childhood when things were easier, change, long distance relationships, and the expectations from family members. Check out the band below and continue to give the album a listen!
Bandcamp - https://goodsleepy.bandcamp.com
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7BPOW1Qhb4yKQ4L7c9peGB?si=pgKExjmrTFKymK1WHiSfig&dl_branch=1
No Sleep - https://nosleeprecords.com/collections/good-sleepy
Instagram/Twitter - @goodsleepyma
For this interview we chat with Candice of the band Woolbright. We had a great conversation about the song "Tuesday," but the band also recently released "Thursday" so check that out too! We also talk about focusing most of their energy towards the band, Woolbright's Twitch channel, teaching yoga, having an Etsy business, and so much more! Keep up with Woolbright through the links below:
Bandcamp - https://woolbrightfl.bandcamp.com
Website - https://www.woolbrightband.com
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4pw9sBWqKBzbgplzI1y07z
Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/woolbright/1116680579
Instagram/Twitter - @woolbrightband
Rosie Tucker released an amazing new album on April 30 called Sucker Supreme. They came on Behind the Vinyl to talk about everything you need to know about the album and their music!
Edits by Brigid Young
Flyer border by Kris Khunachak
Opening song by Sore Eyes
Listen to Rosie Tucker!
Website: https://www.rosietuckermusic.com
Bandcamp: https://rosietucker.bandcamp.com/album/sucker-supreme
Epitaph: https://www.epitaph.com/artists/rosie-tucker
Instagram/Twitter: @lilspoonerism
This interview saw Benjamin Lieber of Marigold join the pod to talk about the band’s new song called “Waiting on me. The recent single is the start of a build up towards an album that Benjamin and the rest of the group plan on releasing this year. “Waiting on me” gives off a strong Tom Petty sound but has a stop waiting around and go for it attitude. Plus, a fun music video came out that displays a set getting dismantled as the band is still playing. There’s also a conversation about Benjamin’s photography/visual career and his time in Head North. Check out Marigold’s new song and past work below:
Bandcamp - https://marigoldny.bandcamp.com/album/marigold
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/3snKRklbclbHPIT9vPfnqu?si=yxV8E4h8Tr62FfAnbPZvUA
Waiting on me music video - https://youtu.be/Ps5_V-i6ZHU
Instagram/Twitter - @marigoldny
I sat down with Aidan, Colman, and Jake of Jail Socks for this interview. They recently signed with Counter Intuitive and are ready for a summer of new music and big news. We chatted about what to expect with the new tunes on the way. There is also a cool announcement about a new member that has been helping out and other fun information about the band. After a 2020 where Jail Socks mostly focused on working towards the new album, the band is excited to get this music out to the world -- especially since it's the first time they wrote together as a full group. Check out Jail Socks below!
Bandcamp: https://jailsocks.bandcamp.com
Instagram/Twitter: @jailsocks
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/21Crq5dXez3hGzaEVeDXH1
Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jail-socks/1350257540
The legendary Lou Barlow of Dinosaur Jr. and Sebadoh joined me for this interview. His band, Dinosaur Jr., released an album called "Sweep It Into Space" last month. The album had the classic Dinosaur Jr. sound, so if you are a fan of the band, then you are going to want to check it out. Some topics from the rest of the episode included getting music out in the 80s compared to today, college radio and fanzines, early shows, staying true to himself as a musician, having to leave his family to go on tour, and of course, plenty of Dinosaur Jr. stories. Listen to Lou's bands below:
Dinosaur Jr's website - https://www.dinosaurjr.com
Sebadoh's website - https://www.sebadoh.com
Dinosaur Jr. on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/267VY6GX5LyU5c9M85ECZQ
Dinosaur Jr. on Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dinosaur-jr/509577
Sebadoh on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/2wrhBKGC3DTNNNDRJPaxW6
Sebadoh on Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sebadoh/3246687
Dinosaur Jr. Instagram/Twitter - @dinosaurjr
Sebadoh Instagram/Twitter - @sebadohofficial
Lou Barlow Instagram/Twitter - @loubarlow/@theloubarlow
Ryan, Sam, and Chloe joined me for a fun conversation about their band Short Fictions. We talked a good amount about their amazing album from the end of 2019 called “Fates Worse Than Death.” Sam really expanded on the topics and themes for this album. He wrote about his fears of climate change and living in the city of Pittsburgh — where most of the band is from. We learned about their backgrounds and heard some interesting stories from over the years. The second half of the conversation is a one-on-one conversation with the drummer, Ryan. He is currently studying at North Texas, so we hear about what it’s like to balance school with touring. Also, there’s some information about what the band has been up to during the pandemic!
I am a little late to the party, but for this interview Greg Mendez joined me to talk about the one year anniversary of his album "Cherry Hell." The album came out on February 28 or 2020, which allowed him to do two weeks of touring. Greg also celebrated the anniversary by doing several livestreams. Greg has a unique writing style where he has upbeat sounding songs with lyrics about heartbreak and other hard realities of life. It's the perfect equation for an instant hit. Check out his music below:
Bandcamp - https://gregmendez.bandcamp.com
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcefyQ1va20RA114g0nJ6lQ/playlists
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/3pGNoAJX3UVctU6X8eG55h
Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/greg-mendez/1315810743
Instagram/Twitter - @xgregmendesx/
Houston we don't have a problem. I had up-and-coming artist Charlie Houston on for this episode. Houston has gained a quick following. After her two singles "Calls" and "Things" saw great success, she released her debut EP labeled "I Hate Spring" on April 30 to follow up the singles. Houston talks about her time in New York attending NYU, returning home to Canada, the stresses of being young, starting up her music career, and of course, the music that she put out to the world. Check out her music below:
Website - https://charliehouston.com
Bandcamp - https://charliehouston.bandcamp.com/album/i-hate-spring-ep
Instagram/Twitter - @charliehoustonmusic/@charlieehouston
Friday is going to be a massive day for Origami Angel. They are releasing a double LP that is called GAMI GANG. To help kick things off this week, Ryland of Origami Angel joined the podcast with special guests Jake Sulzer (owner of CI) and Alex Martin (PR & artist management). Ryland says the biggest message from this album is there's often beauty in places that are overlooked. Well, this album certainly won't be overlooked. Just two years after Origami Angel dropped their debut album labeled "Somewhere City," which received tremendous praise and recognition, the band is ready to raise the bar by teaming up with Counter Intuitive for this double LP. It's been a long time coming. A ton of these songs have been sitting with Ryland and Pat for several years. But, as Ryland puts it in video game terms, a video game that gets released when it's supposed to usually does alright, but a game that has its date pushed back hits the ground running when it finally does come out. Origami Angel is letting the music do the speaking on this one. Also included is Jake talking about his story with Counter Intuitive and what is currently happening with the label and Alex talking about working with bands that they have been listening to for around 15 years now. Check out Origami Angel & Counter Intuitive below:
Origami Angel's Bandcamp - https://origamiangel.bandcamp.com
Counter Intuitive's website - http://www.counterintuitiverecords.com
Origami Angel's Instagram & Twitter - game.gang/@GAMIGANG
Counter Intuitive's Instagram & Twitter - @CIRecs
I had singer/songwriter Deanna Faye on for this one. Deanna has been working really hard over this past year. In January she put out an EP labeled “Good to You.” The songs on the EP show Deanna’s classic rock routes — they have a real 60s or 70s feel to them. Deanna also stays active by consistently uploading videos to YouTube and social media. There is a large variety of content from “how to” videos all the way up to her own music. This was a deep conversation. Deanna talks about some of the trials she went through before getting back into making music. We also had some fun topics about how radio talk shows are still something people in Canada listen to and growing up in the Toronto area. Check out Deanna’s music below:
Website - https://deannafaye.com
Bandcamp - https://deannafaye.bandcamp.com/album/good-to-you
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtb2bs8FL28J0Cc0UokPs6Q
Instagram/Twitter - @deannafaye__
I had Will & Max of the band Dosser (Baltimore, MD) on for this one. Their EP labeled "Brainscan" came out at the beginning of the year. Brainscan takes its name from a 90's sci-fi/horror movie starring Edward Furlong. The movie shows a young teenager transition from being someone who is constantly playing video games to a serial killer. One of the big subjects Dosser wrote about on this EP and for future songs is not truly knowing what someone is going through on the inside. It's easy to portray a happy life through social media, but for some people, that does not tell the full story. They have hidden stress that the world does not know about or sees. Like so many other artists over the past year, mental health has become a main theme of song writing. Mostly because we have been isolated due to a pandemic, but also the demands of being young in this world begins to creep in. There is this preconceived notion that everyone should follow a path of going to college, having a family, etc. but people don't talk about the loads of stess from needing to find a job that seeks years of experience and having a bunch of debt. Will and Bret talk about current societies pressure put on people and the anxiety that starts to come with it in their lyrics. Check out Dosser below:
Bandcamp - https://dossermd.bandcamp.com
Instagram/Twitter - @dossermd
Really Rad Records - https://www.reallyradrecs.com/dosser
We made it to the big 5-0 for episodes. Thrin Vianale was my guest for the pod's 50th episode. I found out about Winded a few weeks ago when Thrin did a livestream for The Alternative. I decided to connect with Thrin after that livestream wrapped up because their music was incredible and the conversation in-between was real genuine. I knew it would make for a great interview, and it sure did. We talked about Florida bands that paved the way for Winded and some of the early shows the band had. Thrin says they all got to know each other on the road and it's a different connection than hanging out at home or in the studio. We also had a deep conversation about Queen and about how Freddie Mercury opened the door for so many future artists. Thrin brings up a recent trip to Spencers. We also talked about a song they wrote after watching Bram Stoker's Dracula. Check out Winded below:
Bandcamp - https://winded.bandcamp.com/music
Instagram/Twitter: im.winded/@windedfl
Bridget & Haley of OK Cool joined me this week to talk about their new EP labeled Surrealist, which came out on March 26 and is now streaming everywhere! It was a blast talking about the songs on this EP, not having much writing experience before this band, finding ways to get a new band out to the world, combining their influences to make their sound, staying busy, the theme of scooters, their close friendship, starting Take a Hike Records, and how gross cat calling is. The name is true, Bridget and Haley are in fact cool. Check them out!
Bandcamp: https://okcool.bandcamp.com/music
Five Finger Exploding Heart Technique music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZl5SH2RceI
Instagram/twitter: @okcoolband
Take a Hike Records: https://takeahikerecords.limitedrun.com/?fbclid=IwAR2cE_xIuv7WeAXa1leNgK4MBg-U2ODnwCptm7ZAsH0oTQpZKy8qrHlwyXE
Evan Stanley is on a motivated path towards making a name for himself in the music industry. He wants every song to be better than the last. He wants people to want more when he releases music. His competitive energy began in high school when his band at the time won a battle of the bands. Evan says that everyone in the group was pumped up to take home the top prize, but they were missing the big picture. He didn't just want to be the best band in high school, he wanted to have his name up there with some of his favorite artists on the radio. Evan continued to play in bands all the way up to college in New York. That is when he realized that he wasn't necessarily happy with his path in music. So, Evan took a leap of faith, left school, quit his band, and moved back to Los Angeles to focus on his solo career. We talked about all of his two releases this year (Memories & El Camino), having Bryan Cranston star in one of his music videos, and growing up as the son of Paul Stanley of KISS.
Instagram/Twitter: @itsevanstanley
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/essguitarman
Several years back I had a buddy of mine send me the band Doe and told me this is my kind of music. There's a reason that we call certain people friends in life, because he was spot on that day. It was love at first site when I heard Nicola Leel's vocals come blasting through my vocals. Fast forward to 2021, and I had the chance to chat with Nicola. Doe is no long an active lineup, but that doesn't stop them from occasionally popping up on social media, and it certainly didn't stop us from having a wonderful conversation about their existence. Last week Doe posted a video of their last show at The Lexington. The crowd was electric -- it was the proper send off for a band that gave us so much good music. This was a fun episode where we talked about the history of Doe and some of the other projects Nicola has been dabbling in like Maneka and The Glow. There might even be some solo music in the future. Keep up with what Nicola is up to below:
Instagram - @nicolaleel
Doe Live at The Lexington (farewell show) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xO53hnmk-g
Bandcamp - https://doetheband.bandcamp.com
Website - http://www.doetheband.co.uk
Sofia Verbilla of Harmony Woods came on the show to talk about the band's new album "GRACEFUL RAGE." The album came out as a surprise release and exploded the moment it was made available to listen to. The album has received nothing but positive reviews and was even hinted at as an early candidate of Album of the Year by Jamie Coletta of No Earbuds. "GRACEFUL RAGE" was produced by Bartees Strange. Sofia says that Bartees Strange gave her new found confidence in her singing that helped her become a better vocalist. This album is a collection of songs that Sofia is extremely proud of and really believes in. It expresses a tough emotional state Sofia was in and how she became far removed from the events taking place and finally was able to write about how she was feeling. Writing about those songs allowed her to see that chapter in her life with a little more clarity and Sofia took away lessons from it. Sofia hopes these songs can help the listeners feel a little less lonely during tough times -- especially the ones we have been experiencing over the past year. Sofia knows she would love to hear a record that she can relate to and hopes that others feel that way while listening to it. Keep up with Harmony Woods below:
Bandcamp - https://harmonywoods.bandcamp.com/album/make-yourself-at-home
Instagram/Twitter - @HarmonyWoodsPA
Grab the vinyl and other Merch here - https://skeletallightning.com/collections/harmony-woods-preorder/products/harmony-woods-graceful-rage
From Jimmy Kimmel Live, to a collaboration with Kendrick Lamar, to playing sold out arenas supporting Maroon 5 -- None have been bigger than this tell all interview Rozzi did on Behind the Vinyl. Just kidding, it wasn't a tell all interview or more important than those past accomplishments, but it was still a fun conversation that went into full detail about Rozzi's new songs from the past year. Especially the most recent release which at the time of the discussion was Hymn for Tomorrow a song about how sometimes letting go opens up room for something new in life. We also talked about her song called "Best Friend Song" which is about, well, her best friend. It is such a catchy song and has found its way on to SiriusXM Pulse and numerous Spotify playlist. The music video is a fun watch too! The other big song was Orange Skies which was a song about the California wildfires. Her record label S-Curve Records/BMG donated a portion of the proceeds to The American Red Cross (Western Wildfires) and the Bay Area's Sonoma Family Meal. Rozzi actively talks about climate change and voting for science. Rozzi also co-host a podcast labeled "Ugh! You're so Good!" which is a must listen. Former Olympic figure skater, Michelle Kwan, was one of the guest! Check out Rozzi below:
Website: https://www.thisisrozzi.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2CYv87SoIoJQIePjZ8DaQw
Instagram/Twitter: @thisisrozzi
It's release day! Alex, Fred, and Sam joined me live from A Shared Universe in Eatontown, NJ to talk about their debut album "Price of a Nation." Listen to the album below:
Bandcamp: https://americaparttwo.bandcamp.com
Revival: https://www.revivalrecs.com/america-part-two
Instagram/Twitter: americaparttwo
I am really pumped up about this one. John, Sam, Anthony, and Wes joined me to talk about their new album coming out on March 26 called [Laughs]. There are currently three singles out so far! Give The Stray, Trophy Deer, and Guilt Like a Gun a listen and get excited about this upcoming album. I am telling you, every song on [Laughs] could be a single, it's that good. It's a fun ride from start to finish. I really enjoyed this interview because I could tell how close Kali Masi is. Every decision is made as a group and that is what made this album so good. Check out Kali Masi below:
Bandcamp: https://kalimasi.bandcamp.com/album/laughs
Instagram/Twitter: @kalimasiband
Rachel, Andrew & Kevin of Nervous Dater joined me to talk about their new album, "Call in the Mess," which will be available everywhere on Feb. 26 (This Friday). The trio out of Brooklyn shared their experience while making the LP and told some really unique and fun stories that you don't want to miss. So far there has been three singles that the band has shared to the world. We talked in-depth about Middle Child and Tin Foil Hat. We got to hear what to expect from the rest of the album as well. This is the most open Rachel has ever been during the writing process. The song reflects on Rachel's experience with gender growing up and some of the restrictions from gender norms. Rachel says that some of the lyrics are about the transitioning of identifying as non-binary. The themes such as depression and debt also pop up in the song and throughout the album. Tin Foil Hat is Andrew's way of putting a song out there about horror, paranormal activity, and conspiracy theories. The band has a love for horror and it can be seen on their album cover. The band's debut album saw tremendous success and the sophomore album will certainly make its rounds around the music community. There is so much more included in this episode. Give it a listen to prepare yourself for Friday! Listen to the band below and buy their merch!
Tom May of The Menzingers joined the show for an epic conversation where we talked about a little bit of everything. We talked about previously being with Red Scare and how good of a person Toby is. We went into detail about The Menzingers getting flown out to California to meet with Epitaph and hearing about their big vision for the band. We obviously discussed the past year. Tom has become serious about cooking and what he puts into his body. Also, he has picked up a hobby in gardening where he grows oyster mushrooms and gourmet mushrooms. He also explained a funk he ran into with writing songs during the quarantine and snapping out of it by taking pressure off his writing.
Tom tells a story about being in Germany when they had their first coronavirus case and then The Menzingers playing their last show in Australia. The next day Australia began closing everything down and the band had to fly home. Tom talks about how everyone has a responsibility while on the road. Next, we got into what happened with the Robinhood app/GameStop and Tom gives us a little bit of financial knowledge. One of my favorite parts of the interview was when Tom talked about the band and how they are all best friends. The Menzingers still have the original lineup and they knew from the start that they were all in for the long haul. That led into Tom talking about growing up in Scranton, being in a band called Bob and the Sagets, and being friends with the members of Tigers Jaw. I also got his thoughts on New Jersey, specifically the New Brunswick scene, since Tom played there often during his early days as a musician.
Tom loves podcasts, too. He has his own called "Future Friday." Tom plans on putting out 52 episodes this year! He says that his passion for podcasts began during long car rides. It originally began with listening to audiobooks and then led into podcasts. He also edits the two podcasts for The Menzingers, which you can find on their Patreon.
We closed out the show talking about the band. Tom discusses the writing process and picking who does vocals with Greg. Tom explains how "From Exile" was a solution to a problem when touring was cancelled and they needed something to do. They decided to do something different this time -- the album was in acoustic form. A lot of the songs, at least to me, talk about leaving the past behind, so I asked Tom about that. "Hello Exile" came out before the pandemic, but lines up with a lot of what has happened over the past year. Two quick fun facts from the episode: Tom's sister gave him an old PC during quarantine and he started playing a game from his teenage years. Also, there's a folk musician with the same name as him... look it up! Give The Menzingers a listen/follow below:
Website: https://themenzingers.com
Bandcamp: https://themenzingers.bandcamp.com/album/from-exile
Instagram/Twitter: @themenzingers
Episode edited/mixed by Calvin McKay!
Had the opportunity to chat with the extremely talented Michael Gilbride who goes by the name of Telco. His story is a true inspiration to his fanbase. Michael was working a finance job in NYC that was leading to a very comfortable career, but something didn't feel right. He didn't want to look back at his life with regret. Everyone was happy about the path he was going down -- except for Michael himself. Michael was passionate about music and was in the middle of putting together the song "Say Hello" while still working his full-time job. Then the pandemic hit America. Michael made the decision to leave the finance field all together. One night he snuck into his office and collected his personal belongings and informed his bosses of his decision to pursue his real dream the next morning.
Telco is fresh off a new single labeled "Minus Nine" which was released in January. This comes at the heels of an EP that came out in September of 2020. "Minus Nine" had a different message than the songs on the EP. It gave the listeners a happier feeling. One where they would want to roll down their windows and drive somewhere. It's a song about pursuing your dreams... similar to how the project Telco was born. Telco is a music project that prides itself on honesty and chasing your dreams.
This episode had a bunch of fun subjects. Michael tells me about seeing Bruce Springsteen in Asbury Park at a young age and not fully realizing how big that show was. We talked about releasing his personal cell phone number to the public and receiving really encouraging text messages. He explained to me how the animated character became a part of his image. We talked about how Telco has made several big playlists. Michael goes into how accepting his finance was to his career change -- she even does some of the art for his social media accounts. Lastly, he admits that his last live show was a high school musical and he's ready to get his music out to the world. Give Telco a listen:
Website: https://www.telcomusic.com
Instagram: telco_music
Pat McCrory of Turnstile and Angel Du$t came on the podcast to talk about a wide variety of subjects. We kicked things off with Pat talking about growing up close to Baltimore. That leads to a discussion about the Baltimore Orioles where he confesses that his mom is a die-hard fan even though they have been one of the worst teams in baseball of late. Pat also brings up a funny story about when he was offered a security guard position at Urban Outfitters and took the job.
There is a bunch of great music talk in this episode. Pat explains how both Turnstile and Angel Du$t toured non-stop before the pandemic starting and how he just wanted a short month or two break to rest up for future shows. Be careful what you wish for! His break, like many other musicians, has turned into a long year. We discuss the wild live experience from his bands and what it will be like when everyone can start touring again. He tells a story about a stretch of acoustic shows he did with Angel Du$t, in which he was extremely nervous about because everyone would know if he messed up. It turned out to be a huge success.
Also, there was an interesting conversation about playing in his hometown of Baltimore and how he always wants to make the next show better than the last. I have always been curious about people's thoughts behind getting music into people's ear while being in a hardcore punk band. Pat talks about that whole process as well. He says the great thing about punk is you have the ability to say whatever you want, play whatever you want, and do whatever you want. We chat about the band not being as active on social media as other groups. Pat explains that they use their platform as something that will add value to society. They always want to put purpose into their post. One particular post from last year came around when Riley Gale passed away. Pat talks about how much Riley meant to him and the band. Riley was like family to him.
Some of the other areas we hit is how he started a twitch recently to play video games with his friends. Pat also started doing photography as a hobby and almost always brings his camera on the road. He had the perfect opportunity to shoot in Australia a few years back. We close out the show talking about how he met the members the two bands he's in, always feeling included in Turnstile even though he joined in 2016, and managing his time. Give Pat's bands a listen:
Turnstile's website: https://www.turnstilehardcore.com
Bandcamp: https://turnstilehc.bandcamp.com
Instagram/Twitter: turnstiletribe/@TURNSTILEHC
Angel Du$t's website: https://www.angeldustmoney.com/?frontpage=true
Instagram/Twitter: angeldustmoney
Neil Berthier of PHONY joined me this week all the way from Los Angeles. We began the discussion talking about his new found love for the outdoors. That includes skating to the local coffee shop daily and learning to surf through a roommate. Neil soon admits that he quit drinking a month ago and even decided to stop smoking cigarettes on his path to healthier lifestyle. We finally get into the music when we talk about his music video for Waffle House (watch it if you haven't yet).
Neil moved to LA right as the pandemic was beginning and it was one of the best decisions he has made in a long time. He is finally happy and enjoying the life he is living. He has been taking advantage of his free time and doing activities he wouldn't be able to do while touring. Neil checked a goal off his list too. Growing up, he wanted to be in LA so bad, and he is finally able to live his dream.
PHONY released its sophomore album labeled "Knock Yourself Out" in August of 2020. Most of the songs were written three years ago and Neil feels like he is not under the same mindset during the present time, so it was weird to relive the past. He considers "Knock Yourself Out" to be a raw album that has lyrics that deal with everything he was dealing with during that time. Neil says that both his PHONY albums have the same message and that is not living up to his full potential. Like stated earlier, Neil is in a better place now, and the way he writes is getting switched up in future projects.
We had a little bit of Donavan Wolfington talk in this episode. It was the start to Neil's career and he is thankful for that. We did discuss the difference between a solo project and being in a band full of different personalities. He agrees that you have to write to the different strengths of the band members. He always felt like time was running out while in his previous band and tried to push things.
Neil looks at his music as a small business. He has new songs coming out in 2021. He can finally make one group his top priority and is ready to conquer the world. Also, if you want to hear a fun conversation about pizza, this is the episode you want to listen to. Check out PHONY below:
Bandcamp: https://1-800-phony.bandcamp.com
Instagram & Twitter: @1_800_PHONY
Back in December I sat down with Dylan Slocum of Spanish Love Songs for a fun conversation. I finally got around to publishing the episode. As many know already, Dylan and Spanish Love Songs released "Brave Faces Everyone" towards the beginning of last year. We are now approaching the one year anniversary of the album. Dylan has certainly talked about it a bunch of times on various podcasts and media publications. We definitely talk about the story behind the album, especially my curiosity about the connection between Losers and Loser 2, but I also wanted to bring fresh topics to the table.
We began the episode joking about how many podcasts Dylan has already joined. We soon got semi-serious when we talked about Dylan not looking at criticism whenever it happens (it's not often) and a funny story about how his mother jokingly sends him criticism at times. Dylan and the rest of the band has a classic saying that goes "All music is great and all music sucks." It makes sense when you think about it. Music is a personal experience. One person might agree with it and the next might want to skip to the next song. We continue with Dylan talking about how he was a television buff growing up and how that resulted to him going to film school and working in Film after graduating. Dylan realized that the film industry wasn't for him, so he made his escape by starting up a band. He never saw it growing into something that he might be able to make a career out of but it continues to progress in the right direction.
We also dive into the Patreon. Spanish Love Songs has been interacting with the fans of their music through their Patreon that they made in May. They do two cover songs a month, a podcast, and are constantly messaging with people. It's really cool stuff. We also chatted about how busy Spanish Love Songs were before the pandemic. They started the year on tour with the Menzingers and were in the middle of a tour with The Wonder Years when Covid-19 hit America. Now, Dylan works a 9-5 from the comfort of his own home, which is completely different experience. Lastly, we got into who listens to their music, Schmaltz being the turning point for the band, his baseball career, the band's parents being involved, and so much more! Check out Spanish Love Songs below:
Website: http://www.spanishlovesongs.com
Bandcamp: https://spanishlovesongs.bandcamp.com
Instagram & Twitter: @spanishlovesongs/@SpanishLuvSongs
I had the pleasure to chat with New Jersey's own The Vaughns this week. Anna and Ryan gave an in-depth look at their upcoming EP "Rom-Coms & Take-Out." There are stories about the two song that have been released to the public already. We got a behind the scenes look at the production. We even learned about what some of their favorite rom-coms are. I enjoyed this episode. There was so much that went into this EP. I hope you all take the chance to learn more about this exciting release that is coming your way on January 29. Check out the Vaughns below:
Website: https://www.thevaughns.com
Bandcamp: https://thevaughns.bandcamp.com
Merch: https://thevaughns.merchnow.com
Instagram & Twitter: thevaughnsnj
This week I had a really impressive guest. Maura Weaver of Ogikubo Station, Direct Hit, and The Homeless Gospel Choir joined me to talk about her journey in music. Maura began the discussion talking about touring with three different bands. We soon explored her time in the UK last year, which included two separate trips. We talked about being on tour with Jawbreaker.. a band Maura made covers of their songs as a teenager. When Maura first got into music she read an article about the best punk albums of all time and made an effort to buy every CD on that list. We chatted about how good of a bassist Matt Freeman (Rancid) is, playing an acoustic tour as opposed to having amps and loud drums, and how it's refreshing to dabble in different bands. We went back to her young where Maura brought up she got into music because of her father who plays classical piano. Maura admits that she is fortunate to play music full-time and then gets into the story about her introduction to Direct Hit. She tells a funny story about how she didn't have the opportunity to practice with the band before her first tour with them and said she was freaking out before. Maura talks about growing up in Cincinnati and explains her experience at shows -- which wasn't the most encouraging experience for a young female musician. We soon talk about the beginning of Mixtapes, the first few tours -- which included The Wonder Years, having good writing chemistry with Ryan, and the band splitting up after a successful release. Maura remembers back to her teenage years again and talks about a rock camp that she attended (found it through Ultimate Guitar). She also brings up dealing with the ups and downs of the music industry at a young age. We finish off the interview talking about the period after Mixtapes, the band Boys, and meeting Mike Park. All Maura ever wanted is to be in a band and she's definitely doing that now. Follow Maura below:
Ogikubo Station: https://asianmanrecords.bandcamp.com/album/ogikubo-station-s-t
Direct Hit: https://directhit.bandcamp.com
The Homeless Gospel Choir: https://www.thehomelessgospelchoir.com
Instagram: @mauraweaver
The first podcast episode of the New Year is an awesome interview I had with Avery Springer of Retirement Party before the holidays. We began the conversation by discussing some of Avery's favorite songs and albums from 2020. We continued with fun topics such as the Chicago community and hearing about how Avery balanced a 9-5 job, college, and touring over the last couple of years. We soon went into Runaway Dog which was the big album from last year. We talked about releasing without being able to tour, the process behind making the album, and the meaning of the lyrics. Avery also talks about how the band formed, having a member live in Mexico, working on the business side of the music industry, and the solo music that was recently released -- includes getting rid of the name Elton John Cena. Lastly, one of my favorite parts of the interview, we talk about the demand that society puts on you to figure out what you want to do in life at an early age, even when most people don't have an idea about exactly what they want to do. Check out Retirement Party & Avery's solo music below:
Bandcamp: https://retirementparty.bandcamp.com
https://averyspringer.bandcamp.com
Instagram & Twitter: @rtrmntprty
I had the opportunity to chat with TJ and Steve of Ghost Town Remedy this week about their "debut" album called "Dry Spell" and so many other topics. This interview included defining the meaning of "Rad Dad Rock" and TJ explaining his father's love for Britney Spears' music. We all agreed on having a hard time listening to Pink Floyd and I admit that I can't listen to the Grateful Dead because of their long songs. I tell TJ and Steve their music sounds like Rozwell Kid. We have an extensive conversation about "Dry Spell." TJ talks about paying tribute to his brother on this album. Steve wrote a song about Taco Bell. TJ and Steve tell the story behind the song and even bring up another time when they spent around $100 at a Taco Bell in Missouri. They also explain how they made an original first album a few years ago, but it had more of a folk sound, which the band has transitioned away from. TJ tells the story behind Therapy and tells us about how he took out his guitar while having an argument with his ex-girlfriend. Steve explains the ultimate meaning behind the album is that it's okay to seek help. The entire album is basically the band's "group therapy." Plus some prize content like meeting at a Christmas concert, their move to Nashville from Virginia, Steve expressing his hate for Ewoks during a Star Wars conversation, the three of us talking about 80's movies, and the band playing at a strip club. Give a listen to Ghost Town Remedy:
Bandcamp: https://ghosttownremedy.bandcamp.com
Website: ghosttownremedy.com
Instagram: @ghosttownremedy
What better way to wrap up this inherently crazy year than to virtually get together with 3 music-binging buddies and dissect our top 10 albums of the year? This episode features a panel style conversation involving previous guest/musician Warren Franklin, Josh Robbins (host of Spinning Out Podcast/plays in Late Bloomer), and Mike Donnelly of Twin Peaks Sessions. While there were a few similarities between the 4 of our lists, I can promise you this episode will grant you a tremendous amount of musical discovery. With an eclectic mix of genre-bending alternative picks stemming from DIY's favorite shrieker Jeff Rosenstock, the revival of 90s space rockers Hum, and rising songstress Phoebe Bridgers, there is something for everyone to indulge in. Grab a pen and paper, note taking is encouraged for this one!
Another special episode in the books! This week I was joined by Tommy Cantwell of Gouge Away and Hesitation Wounds. We talked about the story behind his drumming show on Youtube called "The Pretty Cool Drum Show." I highly advise every musician to check it out because you can definitely learn something. Tommy went into growing up in a family musicians and being in his first ever band with his brother. We discussed Tommy joining Gouge Away and went in-depth about the album "Burnt Sugar." Tommy told his story about meeting Jeremy Bolm of Touche Amore and being asked to become the drummer of Hesitation Wounds. Tommy talked about some of his favorite cities and venues to play in. There was so much more! Check out Tommy's work below:
The Pretty Cool Drum Show: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlcnuJWtgEcu_NYHUxprEw/about
Gouge Away's Bandcamp: https://gougeawayfl.bandcamp.com/music
Hesitation Wounds' Bandcamp: https://hesitation-wounds.bandcamp.com/album/chicanery
Tommy's Instagram: @tomclaudevandamme
This week's episode was an absolute blast. I had the entire band from Orlando's own, Expert Timing. There was laughing throughout most of the episode. Jeff, Katrina, and Gibran are all down to earth and all-around great people. We talked about the rather alarming loose guidelines when it comes to Covid in the state of Florida. We visited a few stories about alligators because, you know, when in Florida, right? There was a real interesting conversation about learning the music scene -- this included Katrina explaining how she picked up the bass after experiencing the DIY punk scene in Pennsylvania and attending The Fest. She even goes into what planning a tour is like. We deeply explored DIY touring. There were several fun stories like the carrying equipment down a set of steps in Philadelphia show on a snowy day, Gibran losing his wallet the first day of a tour, and playing in Canada for the first time. We heard about a secret project (not so secretive anymore) that Jeff and Katrina work on In their downtime called Weapons of Math Destruction (best name ever). Jeff explained how Count Your Lucky Stars came into the picture and the tweet that started their relationship with the record label. Jeff and Katrina talked about being married and what it's like writing the songs. Lastly, of course, we talked about their most recent release called Whichever, Whatever. I recommend giving it a listen! Also, follow the band! Links below:
Bandcamp: https://experttiming.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @experttiming
Twitter: @expert_timing
It was a real honor having Augusta Koch on the podcast this week. Everything Augusta touches turns to gold. I have been a huge Cayetana fan for years, and I am really enjoying the direction Gladie is heading in.
Augusta has a fascinating story. She grew up in the Poconos where she always attended live shows. One thing she did note is that she was always one of two women at the local gigs. At times she didn't feel accepted by the people she went to shows with. Her taste in music and opinion about certain bands was always pushed to the side. Augusta always wanted to play guitar in high school but an unfortunate experience with a creepy guitar instructor ruined any motive to pick up the instrument. It wasn't until she returned home from one year of living in Colorado for college that she picked up guitar again.
That is where the beautiful Philadelphia music scene comes in. The music scene was more welcoming and there was mutual respect amongst all of the bands. Augusta met Kelly when she first moved to Philadelphia and was eventually introduced to Allegra at a party. They had a similar interest in forming a band. That is when Tom May of the Menzingers let Augusta borrow an amp and guitar so that she could start practicing with what eventually formed into Cayetana. The group practiced for a long time before they played a show. In fact, Cayetana had to get talked into playing their first gig. That led to big things. The release of Nervous Like Me took off and gained a following. Then the band opted to self-release New Kind of Normal, which did equally as well.
In 2018 Augusta started a side project that she labeled Gladie. This project was a two-person group that she formed with Matt Schimelfenig. Eventually it turned into Augusta's main focus once Cayetana decided to take a break. This year the group released a full-length album called Safe Sins, which we discuss in full detail. There have also been a few EPs released, and also one coming out this week!
Augusta's dog, Benny also pays us a visit, which is even more the reason to listen. Check out Gladie's work on Spotify and Apple Music, or visit the links below:
Bandcamp: https://gladie.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @gladie_band
Twitter: @Glad_eee
This week's episode was a special one! I had the opportunity to chat with Abby Weems and Ally Einbinder of the band Potty Mouth about their new compilation album called "Sunday Someday" that will be coming out on March 19 through Get Better Records. Make sure to put in the preorder now! The story all began when the pandemic forced the music scene to come to a pause for touring. Potty Mouth began a zoom to continue their friendship with others in the music industry and eventually the idea of a split-album blossomed. Some of the other musicians and groups to appear on the album goes as follows: Nervus, Full on Mone't, Solstice Rey, and KOJI. The funds will go towards Gabe's surgery and future touring expenses for the artists.
Pre-order the record here: sundaysomedayrecord.com
Potty Mouth's Bandcamp: https://pottymouth.bandcamp.com
Instagram & Twitter: @pottymouthworld
Jonathan Francis, who is formerly the bassist with The Moms, and now releasing music with his solo project, joins me this week. We talked about his most recent release which is a modern version of Woody Gutherie's song "Tear the Fascists Down." That was the first of many upcoming songs that should be on everyone's radar. There is an EP coming our way and in the spring there will be more music, possibly even a full-length album. We also discussed Jonathan Francis' path to his solo project after transitioning from The Moms, moving to Asbury Park and how that gave him even greater access to the music community -- the change from the move stirred something up in him. Continuously, we chatted about working with Pete Steinkopf (The Bouncing Souls) in the studio, the process behind creating these songs, influences while growing up, burning CDs during a time before Spotify & Bandcamp, staying true to yourself as a musician, getting involved with record labels, and so much more. Give Jonathan Francis a follow!
Instagram & Twitter: @jnthnfrncsnj
In October I was fortunate enough to come across a fun discovery in the band Petrov. The Charlotte, NC based band joined the show to talk about their new EP labeled Flower Bed. We talked about the message behind the music, having more studio time for this EP, and how each song was put together. Also, we chatted about the live music experience -- including a cool socially distanced fundraiser this year and all of their great shows last year when they first formed as a bed. We discussed last year's EP, Sleep Year, which quickly put the band on the map, and was even included on NPR's best songs of 2019 list. Then we got into hobbies such as Syd picking up drawing and creating the next music video for the band, which will be influenced by the song "Take on me" by a-ha. Give the band a follow:
Bandcamp: https://petrovclt.bandcamp.com
Spotify & Apple Music: Petrov
Instagram & Twitter: petrovclt
Rick Maguire of Pile joins Behind the Vinyl straight from his home in Boston, Ma. Rick talked about what he has been doing during his downtime from touring, which hasn't really been downtime, but instead has been filled with writing more music than ever and picking up drawing again. Pile released a cassette tape in October that included a booklet of artwork from Rick. We then went into finding dedicated band members and setting up recording and rehearsing even though they all live in different states. Rick discussed growing up and playing football and basketball, but having music take over his life at the age of 12. Rick even talked about finding his own voice during the writing experience and how sometimes his songs mention his political frustrations. A key word that continuously pops up is "journey." Rick was in it for the long haul. Pile began in 2007 as a solo project when Rick decided to leave his previous band and form his own universe. Slowly but surely it formed into what it is today. What exactly is Pile today? A band that is seven albums in -- that list includes well-known records Magic Isn't Real, Dripping, and the most recent release, Green and Gray. The band consistently fills up venues and tours the world. Rick certainly doesn't have to live at his practice space anymore. He is on his way.
I took a virtual trip to Los Angeles this week to have a conversation with punk rocker, Kelsey Reckling! We talked about the release of 24 hours in the beginning of the year, going back to school to study biology, finding a passion for bird watch and plant hikes, getting sober and working at Cosmic Vinyl. There was also an detailed discussion about moving to Los Angelas from Houston. Kelsey is a sports fan and talked about what it was like living in LA when Kobe Bryant passed away and the Houston Astros' cheating scandal. Plus, we had an extensive conversation about growing up with a guitar in her hand and finding a love for punk bands like Rancid, Black Flag, and L7. When Kelsey has some free time she runs a record label, Wink and Spit Records. Lastly, Kelsey tells me about starting up Reckling, the first album, and playing live with awesome acts such as Vivian Girls and Great Grandpa last fall. Check out Reckling on the following platforms:
Bandcamp: https://reckling.bandcamp.com/music
Spotify & Apple Music: Reckling
Instagram: @kelseyreck
Twitter: @kelseyreck
Facebook: Reckling
One name that has been popping up more-and-more since their release of their sophomore album "Pleasure Vision" is the band Bacchae out of Washington, DC. This week Andrew, Katie, and Rena took some time out of their schedule to tell their story. Pleasure Vision was released on March 6 right around when Covid was storming into the US. The band was able to luckily play their release show, but the tour ended there as the entire country went into a lockdown. The band talked about some interesting topics like working with J. Robbins during the production of the album and connecting with Brian Gorsegner of WIRED Booking and the Night Birds. They went into their growth from starting out as a new band 5 years ago when they recorded a home mixed demo to the professional setting with this "Pleasure Vision." This included a lot of tips about starting up and getting your name out. They thought back to the tour life and discussed opening up for The Ergs! and playing the Bouncing Souls pre-show in Asbury Park. This episode was a good one so give it a listen and check out Bacchae too!
Bandcamp: https://bacchae.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @bacchaeband
Twitter: @Bacchaeband
Facebook: Bacchae
Fresh off their debut album, 5 Years Behind, which was released in March, THICK join the conversation this week. THICK started as a two-piece band in 2013 when Nikki and Shari met on Craigs List. The two would meet up once a week at a practice space and piece together some of the early songs of the band. Two years later, in 2015, Kate came on board as the bassist and everything began to speed up at that point. THICK jumped on every show bill they could get on and began to network and make connections throughout the music scene. They went from strictly DIY shows to one day receiving an email from the well-known record label Epitaph asking if they were interested in joining their roster. THICK is a real confident band and their most recent release is only the beginning. Get familiar with them!
Website: https://thick.band
Bandcamp: https://thick.bandcamp.com
Instagram: thickinbrooklyn
Twitter: @thickinbrooklyn
Facebook: THICK
If you want a punk legend then you came to the right place. This episode had countless stories from the long career of Mikey Erg. The recording process for each album, the live show experience, and so much more. You name it and it's in this episode. Mikey discusses what it was like to do remote recordings when the pandemic first started. He also goes into how important it is to support bands through bandcamp or whatever other resources. Mikey talks about life on the road and what he does when he finally has some time at home. Mikey discusses the planning process for the year since he is always in 4 or 5 projects at once. He goes deeply into his solo project and what the time period between The Ergs! and when he started writing music again was like. Lastly, we talk about The Ergs! and his start in music. How the band formed, the big tour with the Bouncing Souls and Lifetime, the moment the band split up, the reunion shows over the last few years, and the possibility of a comeback record in the future.
Bandcamp: https://mikeyerg.bandcamp.com
Instagram: mikeyerg
Twitter @mikeyerg
Facebook: Mikey Erg
Shab Ferdowsi is someone who has many talents and is always finding new ways to be creative. The musician out of Los Angeles just released a full-length album in the spring labeled R.I.P. Apathy. We spoke about the two year process that went into having that record come into fruition. Also, she has quite the story behind her music journey. Shab didn't start writing music until about four years ago when some of her friends influenced her to start recording her songs. That is when everything took off. Before that she was a tour photographer and put together DIY shows in the LA area. But, her talents go deeper than music. During quarantine she decide to find new ways to keep herself entertained. Shab began making ice Cream and recently she ventured into the pizza world. This is a deep conversation. Shab does not hold back. She discusses her declining eye sight and what that means for some of her hobbies. She goes deeply into the different chapters of her life. Give Blushh a follow and don't forget to listen to their music!
Website: https://www.blushhmusic.com
Bandcamp: https://blushhmusic.bandcamp.com/album/r-i-p-apathy
Instagram: blushhmusic_
Twitter: blushhmusic_
Facebook: Blushh
The influences behind the grungy sound of Nashville's own, Sad Baxter, isn't hard to find. Deezy grew up a fan of loud rock and was inspired by acts like Nirvana, Veruca Salt, and Hole. Once she met Alex at Berklee College they were on a mission to create a sound similar to the ones they both grew up admiring. Fast forward several years later and their story has been a huge success. As usual, this episode is filled with a ton of fun stories. Especially the one where Alex closed on a home while on the road with the band. Give it a listen and get involved in the discussion with the band!
Bandcamp: https://sadbaxter.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @sadbaxter
Twitter: @sadsadbaxter
Facebook: Sad Baxter
As we enter the fall season and the warm weather slowly begins to fade away, there will be more time to sit down and catch up on some of your favorite musicians and shows. Warren Franklin is an excellent choice! On Sept. 12 his Instagram show returns and if it's anything like season one then you are in for a treat. Season one saw guests like Ratboys, Retirement Party, Mikey Erg, Chris Conley & so many others join the discussion. Warren is also a respected musician who has great insight on the music industry. We talked about bands like The Lawrence Arms, Illuminati Hotties, and several other great groups. He also discussed having to learn the bass in a matter of weeks for a life changing European tour. So many other fantastic stories included in this episode!
Bandcamp: warrenfranklin.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @warrenfranklinmusic
Twitter: WFANDTFF
Facebook: Warren Franklin
Carmen Perry of Remember Sports joined the podcast this week! It's jam packed with some really epic stories! Carmen discussed the current state of music and starting up a Patreon. She also took a journey back to high school when she joined a student run music group and not feeling completely comfortable playing music at that time in life because of a unwelcoming group of boys from her school. She started Remember Sports when she met her friends at a small school in Ohio (Kenyon College) and found out that they all had similar music interests. There are plenty of other stories like the one about a band called Sports who sent Carmen a fake cease to exist letter several years back. Give Remember Sports a follow on social media (@remembersportsband).
This week I chatted with Sarah Blumenthal of Charlotte, NC's fuzzy indie punk band Alright. The band is preparing for the release of their first full-length album labeled "I'm Doing This to Myself" which will be available on Aug. 28 (Self Aware Records). We went in-depth about the song writing experience and everything behind the steps that Sarah took to make this release possible. Also, there are several fun stories included in this episode. The list includes helping run a record label (Self Aware Records) and traveling to Japan last year to play a few shows. Give Alright a follow on social media (alrightnc)!
This week Stephen of The Big Easy dropped into the podcast. The Big Easy has been easily one of my favorite discoveries of 2020. Stephen's music making abilities is a real treat for anyone who listens. He had some great input about the music he puts out for all to hear and is extremely passionate about his craft. Last fall he started on an adventure that led him to releasing a new song on the first Friday of every month. This stopped in February when he released his EP, First Friday. Stephen also discussed the first time he picked up an instrument in his buddies basement, some fun tour stories, and what it's like being a Black musician in the indie scene. Give The Big Easy a follow on Instagram and Twitter (@thebigeasyband).
I had the pleasure of sitting down with David & Daoud of Bad Moves this week. The punk band out of Washington, DC just released one of the best albums this year in Untenable. We chatted about making Untenable, releasing it in 2020, and the story behind several of the songs. Plus, we discussed how the band formed (a pretty awesome karaoke night) and some other epic stories about the group. Give them a follow on social media (badmovesdc)!
Took a virtual road trip to Seattle, Wa this week to chat with John Spinney of Monsterwatch. Big Sin has been one of my favorite songs for the longest time and Tuesday was the original intro jam of the show. So a bunch of connections with the band! It was cool to hear John talk about the transition in sound the band has seen for the upcoming album that will be released at the beginning of next year. They are taking on a new wave punk sound which is different from the in your face punk from the original EP. We also discussed growing up in New Hampshire, giving up guitar at an early age and then picking it up again later in life, living out of a van when he first relocated to Seattle, and life on the road. Give them a follow on all social media platforms (@monsterwatch).
For this episode I returned to the local front of New Jersey and my punk self is jumping for joy. I had Brian Gorsegner of Night Birds join this week. When I was growing up, and started dabbling in the bass guitar, Brian was someone I looked up to and admired for all that he did for the punk community. He has been touring for 20 years now in several different projects. He has been on the road with notable acts like the Descendents, the Ergs, and Joyce Manor. His current band, Night Birds, are signed with the label Fat Wreck Chords. He also runs a booking company called Wired. Give him a follow on IG (@briangorsegner).
I had the honor of sitting down with Michigan's rising emo punks, Dogleg. The full band sat down to chat about their full story. From Alex starting Dogleg as a solo act and being the loudest musician at coffee shop shows to the release of one of the best albums of 2020 in Melee. This episode is loaded with personal and band stories. Give Dogleg a follow on IG (doglegband) and on Twitter (@leg_dog).
This week's episode is getting released on the 5th anniversary of the band I had the opportunity to chat with! Ramona, a punk band out of Philly, formed in Seattle, WA on July 7 of 2015. It started with a Craigslist ad and resulted in a first get together that ended with the band getting massages. Since then they have been a tight knit group. Whether it's singing karaoke during long van rides or wearing matching outfits for a photo shoot -- it's pretty clear that Ramona formed a bond on that first day. I chatted with Abby & Shannon about their impressive album (Deals, Deals, Deals!) and circled back to some tour stories like the time they saw the Emoji movie together. Connect with them on all social media platforms by typing in Ramona music!
This week I had the opportunity to converse with John Russell from the band Gnawing out of Richmond, VA. Gnawing has a 90s rock sound similar to Dinosaur Jr. and The Lemonheads. It was another great discussion. John is originally from North Carolina and played In a few bands before he moved to Richmond and ultimately created Gnawing. We really went deep into influences on the music scene and American history in general. We talked about his love for the Charlotte Hornets and Star Wars. Plus, Shaky came out in the beginning of the year! Give Gnawing a follow on all social media platforms (@Gnawinggg).
Super pumped up to have the opportunity to chat with local legends, Latewaves. This was my first time having the entire band on the show and they turned out to be the coolest group of people. This episode was filled with epic stories and endless laughs. My personal favorite story was about the time they performed in a kitchen. Catch that story & so many others in this loaded episode!. Give Latewaves a follow on both Instagram & Twitter (@Latewaves).
Sonia Sturino of Weakened Friends joined Behind the Vinyl this week. I was fortunate enough to discover Weakened Friends a few years ago at the Asbury Brewery. They quickly became one of my favorite live acts. I make sure to never miss them when they come to New Jersey. On this episode we talked about the usual topics such as how Sonia got into music, how the band formed, moving to Portland, and the tour life. However, what made this episode so great were some of the deeper topics like anxiety, racism in America, privilege, and so much more. Give Weakened Friends a follow on all social media platforms and make sure to give them a listen!
This week we had another Chicago-based band join the show which continues to prove the rich music history of the city. Julia Steiner of Ratboys was my guest and she was an absolute blast to converse with. We talked about a wide-range of music topics like how she met bandmate Dave at Notre Dame, they started writing music in their dorm rooms, eventually moving in with Dave & Sean in Chicago & having more time to practice, hitting the road for DIY touring, and eventually getting their first headlining tour after the release of Printer's Devil. Give Ratboys a follow on IG & Twitter @Ratboysband.
This week's episode features everyone's favorite eclectically creative punk, Brendan Kelly. From the growth of the beloved Lawrences Arms to his most recent solo work with the Wandering Birds, we dive into Beex's maniacal musical mind, the city of Chicago, his writing career path (with stops at the Onion and the Hard Times) to the utmost importance of being a family man. Give him a follow on IG (dr_beexo) and Twitter (@badsandwich). Read his blog https://badsandwich.substack.com and listen to his podcast labeled Road to the Skeleton Coast.
This week Marisa Dabice of Mannequin Pussy joined the podcast for an epic episode. Mannequin Pussy is a Philadelphia-based punk band that currently have three full-length albums (GP, Romantic, Patience). We discussed her love for tie-dye, being diagnosed with cancer as a teenager, dancing as a hobby growing up, learning how to play the guitar, the death of Amy Winehouse and how musicians have an impact on our lives, eventually joining forces with childhood friend, Thanasi, and forming Mannequin Pussy. Give Mannequin Pussy a follow on Instagram and Twitter @mannequinpussy
This week Christian Sparacio joined the show for a super fun episode. Sparacio is a former college football player who shifted to full-time musician after graduating from Colby College. We discussed working at a brewery, favorite rom-coms, balancing football and music, performing at Carnegie Hall in high school, making the decision to do music full-time, recording Baby Blue during Quarantine, and his song Silent Places beginning to blow up after a flash artist used it in his video. Visit Christian's Instagram @sparaciomusic or his website sparaciomusic.com. Also, give us a follow on IG @behindthevinylpod
This was honestly a dream episode for me. Sincere Engineer has been one of my favorite bands since they released Rhombithian back in 2017. Deanna Belos, who created the group, and makes all of the music, joined me to talk about Nickelodeon, not attending dental school and starting a band instead, the Chicago scene and the influence that bands like Lawrence Arms and Alkaline Trio had on her, receiving the opportunity to join Red Scare Industries, creating a word that eventually became her first albums name (look out for it in the dictionary soon lol), balancing working a full-time job with being in a band, the meaning behind her songs, and so much more! Make sure to give Sincere Engineer a follow on Twitter and IG @sincereengineer and also visit their website sincereengineer.com. Check us out on IG as well @behindthevinylpod
The journey continues with episode two! This week had no limits when I spoke with Austin Cooper of Arizona's indie pop punk band, No Lungs. We discussed favorite candy, foods of Arizona, Nirvana, Austin having to re-record the first two albums, No Lungs' first tour, and so much more! Be sure to follow No Lungs on IG @nolungsaz and our page as well @behindthevinylpod. As usual, would love to hear feedback!
The first official Behind the Vinyl episode! I had the pleasure to kick off the show with an in-depth conversation with Alex Fabio of New Jersey's alternative Americana punk band, America Part Two. We discussed Alex's hectically inspiring yoga trip during the outbreak of the coronavirus, the ever evolving New Jersey scene, touring as a DIY band, and what America Part Two really stands for. Be sure to follow America Part Two on IG @americaparttwo and our page as well @behindthevinylpod, would love to hear from you!
Steve is joined by Mike Donnelly of Twin Peaks Sessions to discuss what to expect from the show.
Give a follow!
Instagram: @behindthevinylpod
Twitter: @StevenMacri