Tour Stories (Ruinous Media)

Jenny Pulse is a visual artist, singer, songwriter and one half of the collaborative duo, Tim Kinsella and Jenny Pulse. They're newest release, Giddy Skelter (out now via Kill Rock Stars), is a multi-textured collage of live instrumentation, samples, electro beats and experimental hooks. The recording is accompanied by a beautifully written zine titled Giddy Skelter : A Case Study. How to Make The Album You're Trying To Make, which functions as an illustration and manual to the process of making the record. In this episode Jenny shares how a karaoke rig and an old synthesizer were the gateway to her learning composition and arrangement. She tells us how the accompanying zine is a document of a new process of making a recording, how trips to the art institute influenced their song evolution and why she prefers mixing in a studio. The two discuss why untethering from the computer is a cure for the CPU blues, why band names make you feel like a teenager, and we hear a couple tunes. Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Jenny Pulse Tim Kinsella Kill Rock Stars

Mary Timony is a singer, songwriter, and guitar wizard from Washington DC. For the past 30 years she has fronted, founded, toured, and recorded with such celebrated and influential bands as Autoclave, Helium, Ex Hex and Wild Flag. Her fifth solo release, Untame The Tiger (out February 23 via Merge) is a beautifully elaborate guitar pop, riff driven record that touches on familial loss, emotional freedom and psychic shift.   In this episode Mary tells us how an onslaught of simultaneous dramatic experiences changed her perspective personally and artistically and how music brought her closer to her ailing father. She shares her experience of recording with the great Dave Mattacks, mixing with Dave Fridmann and gives some in-sight into the process of co-producing with longtime friend, Joe Wong.   We also hear about her first punk show, how she avoids “rote playing” and shares the funny and harsh experience that led her to quitting the viola.  We hear a few tunes and Mary tells us not one, but three hilarious tour stories. Mary Timony Wild Flag EX Hex Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Native Instruments

Grasshopper is a multi-instrumentalist, lead guitarist and founding member of Mercury Rev. His other projects include Harmony Rockets and his own band Grasshopper and the Golden Crickets. Mercury Rev’s newest record, Born Horses, is yet another intriguing sonic step in the band’s evolution.  Born Horses is out September 6 via Bella Union.  Grasshopper shares his early relationship with music, how seeing Lou Reed steered the young horn-player to playing guitar and why he wound up focusing less on his guitar playing on the new record. He shares the process of writing Born Horses, how Brechtian Theatre and prose influenced the overall sound and why previous projects informed this process.  Joe and Grasshopper celebrate the “utility musician”, Grasshopper tells us a sweet story about his last memory in his favorite Buffalo bar and we hear a couple new tunes. Mercury Rev  Bella Union Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Jenn Champion is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Los Angeles. She is a founding member of the legendary gloomers Carris's Wierd, recorded 4 records under the moniker "S" and now releases material and performs as Jenn Champion. Her newest self produced release, The Last Night of Sadness (out Oct. 13 via Gay Forever) is a rich and confident journey, tinged with heavy synth/pop riffs and hip hop nods, all coated in with a sheen of real life darkness and humor. In this episode, Jenn's shares her life and musical experience "pre-Carrisas Wierd" and how the band's relevance periodically bumbles into her orbit. Jenn and Joe discuss her view on success vs. fame and how the new record went from "small" demos to a much larger pop production. Jenn tells us why the new release feels more like a realized piece of art, how horror soundtracks had an influence on the production and we hear a few tunes. Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

This week Joe celebrates Hawaiian music and shares some early to mid-20th century public domain century recordings. 1.   Dreams of Old Hawaii-Varsity Hawaiian Orchestra 2.    Farewell to Thee - Toots Paka Hawaiians 3.   Mai Poina Oe Ia'u- Lani McIntire and his Aloha Islanders 4     Aloha Oe- Hawaiian Quartett 5.   Kuuaina Aliha-Varstiy Hawaiian Orchestra 6.   Ke Kali Nei Au- George Kainapau with George Archer And His Pagans 7.    He Manoa He Aloha- Kaai Glee Club 8.    Kewaii - Palakiko and Paaluhi 9.   Wailana (Drowsy Waters) -Ferera and Franchini 10. Aloha and Goodnight-Varsity Hawaiian Orchestra Ruinous Media Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Scott McCloud is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He has been a founding member of Girls Against Boys, New Wet Kojak and Soulside. He continues to tour extensively, performs acoustically, and operates in various projects including Agrio and Paramount Styles. In this episode, Scott shares a story where a simple misunderstanding of gratitude leads to a confusing, riotous, and even violent reaction from the crowd when his band Operator opened for Placebo in Lisbon.   Joe and Scott discuss what this good intention turned bad tells us about humans in large groups, selective communication, crowd tipping points and why Scott still thinks about this show today. Music by Operator. A special thank you to John Schmersal for generously funding this episode. GVSB Paramount Styles Agrio Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Benny Reed is the vocalist, guitarist, and one half of (alongside drummer Johnny Lani) the Australian band, Skegss. Their third full length release, Pacific Highway Music, is out now via Loma Vista Recordings. Benny tells us why the new record, recorded in Los Angeles at two iconic studios (The Village and Fivestar Studios), was a new experience for the band, and how Dave Catching’s studio Rancho De La Luna played a role in the overall sound and gear selection.   Joe and Benny discuss how a songwriting challenge from Benny’s dad resulted in a song about two Australian cultural legends, bushranger Ned Kelly and celebrated singer-songwriter, Paul Kelly. Benny shares his early life in a small town, how the Tension body boarding videos influenced his musical taste, and we hear a couple new tunes. Skegss Loma Vista Episode supported by Izotope Ep supported by our friends @izotope. Izotope cyber week starts now! Head over to izotope.com now to and get massive savings on all their production software. Use code FRET10 at check out. Episode supported by Distrokid Check out the Distrokid App!

Benny Reed is the vocalist, guitarist, and one half of (alongside drummer Johnny Lani) the Australian band, Skegss. Their third full length release, Pacific Highway Music, is out now via Loma Vista Recordings. Benny tells us why the new record, recorded in Los Angeles at two iconic studios (The Village and Fivestar Studios), was a new experience for the band, and how Dave Catching’s studio Rancho De La Luna played a role in the overall sound and gear selection.   Joe and Benny discuss how a songwriting challenge from Benny’s dad resulted in a song about two Australian cultural legends, bushranger Ned Kelly and celebrated singer-songwriter, Paul Kelly. Benny shares his early life in a small town, how the Tension body boarding videos influenced his musical taste, and we hear a couple new tunes. Skegss Loma Vista Episode supported by Izotope Ep supported by our friends @izotope. Izotope cyber week starts now! Head over to izotope.com now to and get massive savings on all their production software. Use code FRET10 at check out. Episode supported by Distrokid Check out the Distrokid App!

Melissa Weikart is a French American singer songwriter currently based on Strasburg. Her third and newest EP, Easy, (out January 17th) is a sonic and production expansion on her previous work. Melissa shares her experience “growing up French” in Boston, why she appreciates her U.S. music education and how a teacher encouraged her to establish her own voice and process that gave her a musical identity at a young age.  We learn why a collaborative project recomposing Pet Sounds explores the gendered nature of genius, how an accidental recording became the new single, and why Wendy Eisenburg and Lana Del Ray influenced the new recordings. Melissa tells us how she was tricked into exposing here lack of pop culture knowledge as a kid, Joe learns why Strasburg in the “Christmas Capitol” and we hear two new songs from Easy. Melissa Weikart Episode supported by Izotope Ep supported by our friends @izotope. Izotope holiday savings start now! Head over to izotope.com now to and get massive savings on all their production software. Use code FRET10 at check out. Episode supported by Distrokid Check out the Distrokid App! and NOW you can apply for a TikTok Artist Account directly through your DistroKid account! All at distrokid.com

This week Joe sneaks in Ep 1 of Ruinous Media's newest podcast, La Jolla Babylon: The Making Of A Suburban Punk. Your host, musician and writer Aaron Hartman, shares stories about his stormy youth growing up punk in a conservative beach town with his Millennial sister, actor, writer and comedian Katie Hartman.  What emerges is a series of hilarious, poignant, and brutally honest weekly episodes that delve into the stark differences in their upbringings, despite being siblings. La Jolla Babylon:The Making Of A Suburban Punk Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Nic Gohl and Drew McBride are the guitarists and founding members of Chicago based Deeper. Their third release and Sub Pop Records debut Careful is out September 8th and is followed by an extensive North American and European tour. In this episode Drew and Nic share their musical backgrounds, how Deeper came together in their college years and the audio and visual evolution of the band to now. They discuss their progression of songwriting, share the experience of making Deeper in a fourteen day studio session and the role guitar layering has on the over all sound of the new record. The three exchange their thoughts on ranching (yes, ranching) and we hear a couple tunes from the new record. This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software. Check it all out at Izotope To learn more about Deeper go to Sub Pop and Deeper

Washington DC based Kerosene 454 performed and recorded consistently from 1992-1998. In that time, they released 3 albums, several seven inches records and laboriously toured North America, Japan, and Europe. After 28 years, their sophomore album, Came By To Kill Me will be re-released digitally and on limited edition vinyl on 1/24/25 via Solid Brass Records.   In this episode, Joe talks with singer guitarist Erik Denno and founding member and guitarist James Wall. Erik and James explain the origin and frequently changing line up of the band, how they found each other in an explosion of grunge culture and why they ultimately settled in Washington DC. We learn why Came By To Kill Me is a defining record for the band, how heavy touring ultimately paid off in the recording process and why good old fashion angst informed the band at the time. Erik and James share their experience working with dream trio Don Zientara (Inner Ear), J. Robbins (Jawbox) and Juan Carrera (Warmers) at Inner Ear Studios and how that shaped their perspective on recording. The three discuss rock band reunions, give praise to the great Meg Watjen and the Velvet Elvis and we hear a couple remastered tunes from Came By To Kill Me. Kerosene 454 Solid Brass Records Please visit Izotope and Distrokid for continued exclusive listener discounts.

Season 5 debut with Vice Cooler! Vice Cooler is an artist, musician, producer, director, and photographer based in Los Angeles, California. As a teenager, Vice co-founded the influential no wave band XBXRX in Mobile, Alabama and later he became a member of The Raincoats along with touring as a member of Chicks on Speed. Vice has gone on to work with Peaches, Linda Lindas, Kim Gordon, Ladytron, Deerhoof and dozens of other artists in production, performance and video capacities. In this episode we hear how Thrash Palace, his newest effort with EMA and Sarah Register, was formed and signed to Sub Pop following a 48-hour recording session. Vice shares his experiences of growing up in the Mobile music scene and how one show likely put him on the artistic trajectory he remains on to this day. Joe and Vice discuss the his collaborative process, why he likes to work quickly and how he views his overall output. Vice declares his love for theme parks and we hear a couple Thrash Palace tunes. If you are liking Tour Stories, please subscribe and tell a friend. Thanks! This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software. Check it all out at Izotope And.....I want to welcome our newest sponsor to the show Distrokid! Distrokid helps musicians get their music on all the major streaming platforms and artists keep 100% of their royalties. Tour Stories listeners get 30% off at  distrokid.com/vip/tourstories. Vice Cooler Sup Pop

Cal in Red is a Grand Rapids based indie pop project started by brothers Connor and Kendall Wright. Since 2022 they have released 2 Ep’s, a handful of singles and on September 22, they will release their full-length record, Low Low, via B3SCI records.  The fellas tell us why they moved from their hometown of Lansing to Grand Rapids, what their early relationship with music was like and what bands inspired them to begin writing and recording music. We learn how experience and time shaped the new record, why their approach was different and how they share writing, recording and production duties. The brothers share the story of meeting James Mercer, how he wound up singing on the new record and we hear a couple new tunes. Cal In Red Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Juicebumps is a zany no-wave tinged post punk four piece based in Oakland, CA. With an ever-changing and strong visual aesthetic, Juicebump's look, performance and supporting graphic design carries the band as much as their heavy synthesizer base and angular guitar hooks. Their new record Jumbo is out October 13 on Rocks In you Head Records. In this episode, Joe talks with Parker, Spencer and Shaina on the origin of Juicebumps, how a fear of boredom drives their artistic output and why the goal of the band is to make people move on the dance floor. The band shares their collaborative process, how 90's cartoons are a visual influence and we hear a couple tunes. Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

Vera Sola is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and poet based in Los Angeles, CA. Her newest album, Peacemaker (out February 2 via City Slang) is a sprawling and lyrically ferocious follow up her first record Shades and will take the listener on a joyfully painful sonic journey through the cinematic west. In this episode Vera tells us how cinematic framing shaped the new record, why anger may be the driving energy and why she was "psychotic" about the final mix. Vera shares how a plant ceremony inspired her to make her first record, why David Beeman’s patience was crucial to her finishing the record and how Peacemaker's process was different. Joe and Vera talk retirement in the New York City, and we hear a couple tunes. Vera Sola City Slang Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Native Instruments

Lira Mondal and Caufield Schnug are collectively Sweeping Promises. Together, they have written, performed and recorded the last two records entirely as a duo, both efforts celebrating their unique and dynamic chemistry. Their newest record, Good Living Is Coming For You will be released on June 30th on Feel It (North America) and Sup Pop (ROW) with extensive touring to follow. In this episode, Lira and Caufield share their long journey between the records that landed them in their new studio in Lawrence, KS by way of Boston, Austin and Marfa. They discuss the intention behind their production, how meticulousness can result in simplicity and their path to collaborative songwriting. The three discuss why music criticism has likely run out of steam, why Caulfield feels like a spy on tour and we hear a few tunes new tunes. Episode supported by Native Instruments. visit https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ for 50% off Komplete 14 Select using code "podcast" Episode supported by Izotope. Go to https://www.izotope.com/ for 10% off all software using code "FRET10" https://www.feelitrecordshop.com/ https://www.subpop.com/artists/sweeping_promises https://sweepingpromises.com/

Kate Stables is a singer, song-writer, multi instrumentalist and founding member of This Is The Kit. British born Paris based Stables will be releasing her 7th full length record, Careful Of Your Keepers on June 9th via Rough Trade Records. The new effort is a complex, soothing and magnetic collection of songs produced and "toneset" by Gruff Rhys (Super Furry Animals, Neon Neon). In this episode Joe and Kate discuss the lyrical origin and tone of the new record and Kate shares some insight into her general writing process and how that connects to the listener. Kate tells us why she's likely a "changer" vs. and "stay the samer" and how that may manifest in both her life and art. She also shares the experience of making Careful Of Your Keepers with a super furry animal, explains the meaning behind This Is The Kit and champions Joes excitement for the video for the single More Change. https://youtu.be/v25evwdaf8o This episode supported by Native Instruments, iZotope, and Plugin Alliance. Check out "Summer of Sound", the best ever savings on ALL software, with 50% off products, updates, and upgrades, plus special hardware and software bundle deals . Visit all 3 online shops to capture these insane deals! https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ https://www.izotope.com/ https://www.plugin-alliance.com/ https://titk.cargo.site/ https://www.roughtrade.com/us/product/this-is-the-kit/careful-of-your-keepers-2

The Red Pears are a three-piece band hailing from El Monte, Ca. Comprised of childhood friends Henry Vargas (vocals/guitar), Jose Corona (Drums) and Patrick Juarez (Bass), the trio are celebrating their fourth album, Better Late Than Never (out April 12th via Daycare Records). The three share the inspiration behind the new record and how a newfound freeness in production allowed them to toggle between listening with their hearts and employing technical input. We learn how cooperative comradery drives the inspiration of The Red Pears and the why a kindred conscientious serves as the glue in their writing, recording, and touring. They discuss the contrast of extensive touring and structureless home life, their upcoming shows at The Forum and Coachella and we hear a few tunes. Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Julia Shapiro and Gretchen Grimm are one half of Seattle's noisy dream pop legends, Chastity Belt. Their 5th album, Live Laugh Love (out March 29th via Suicide Squeeze Records) is a dreamy layering of guitars, vocals and gentle rhythms that guide the listener through both emotional sincerity and lighthearted nostalgia, all with the sheen of cheekiness that the band has celebrated from the beginning.  Julia and Gretchen share the process and inspiration behind the new record, its cover art, and how the power of simplicity guided the recording.  The three discuss biking in Seattle, essential skills learned on the road and their relationship with music in their formative years. For the first time we take a few questions from friend of show John Atkins that leads to a thorough education on The Harp Twins and how to make a Renaissance Faire hat on the cheap. As always we hear a few tunes from the record. Chastity Belt Suicide Squeeze Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

This week we hear from Joe's other voice, his drums. In the winter of 2012 and 2013, Joe found himself on a dreaded break. Mister Heavenly, The Shins and Cold War Kids were either between tours or between records, leaving him in his least favorite position, idle. He was still playing and recording almost daily, but with records rather than bandmates. One day during a "shuffle session" ( he would hit record, shuffle his music library and start playing with whatever tune came into his ears), he got the idea to not only pay homage to one of his favorite drummers Max Roach, but to "cover" M'boom, an all percussion masterpiece released in 1970. Ultimately, Hew Time only hints at the jazzier elements of M'boom, but each composition is a song for song interpretation of spirit of the record. As soon as the skeletal versions were written, Joe brought the tunes to Dale Crover (The Melvins, Nirvana) Coady Willis (Big Business, Murder City Devils, The Melvins, High On Fire) and Kyle Crane (Rufus Wainwright, Daniel Lenois, Neko Case) where they recorded live over the course of two days with Toshi Kasai. Please enjoy, It's Hew Time. Hew Time is available on Joyful Noise Records. #feelthepassion https://www.joyfulnoiserecordings.com/collections/hew-time https://www.themelvins.net/ To see video, go to https://youtu.be/ZE4oUmUZABw Track Listing 2020 Is Yours! Koopolder Nine Pan Alley Swung Bell Door Swimming Pool (Hildalgo Blues) Tan Guy Bell Window Cave Rage

Yvette Young is a singer, songwriter and guitarist for Covet. The new record, Catharsis is out now on Triple Crown Records. In this episode, Yvette shares her process the risks and the inspiration behind this new record. Joe and Yvette discuss the collaborative effort it takes to make a record, the power of instrumental music and the conflict between writing music verses touring. We learn that Joe and Yvette share some of the same post hard-core influences and we hear a couple new tunes. https://yvetteyoungmusic.com/ http://triplecrownrecords.com/artists/covet https://covettheband.com/ https://covetband.bandcamp.com/

Allen Karpinski is a song writer, guitarist and founding member of the Ohio band The Six Parts Seven. Fellow Ohioan, Joey Beltram is this the singer, songwriter behind Goodmorning Valentine. Over the course of a weekend in 2006, the two bands came together in a small in studio in Kent, Ohio. What yielded was a beautiful collaborative collection of songs called Kissing Distance (out February 16th via Suicide Squeeze). Joey and Allen share the magic of the experience and the spark that inspired this collaboration.  Joey tells us how an unusual spontaneity and openness in the studio led to a beautiful and novel experience for the band. Joey lends us some in-sight on the recording and writing process, they talk Kinkos, the fall of Pitchfork and we hear a couple tunes. The Six Parts Seven Goodmorning Valentine Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

Hatis Noit is self-taught vocalist and songwriter based in London. Her inspiration and vocal style ranges from Japanese folk, western classical, Gregorian chanting to Avant-guard, ambient and pop. In 2018 she released her debut record, Illogical Dance, which was praised not only for its unique vocal interpretations, but also her moving live performances. Her most recent and widely acclaimed release, Aura (Erased Tapes) will be re-released on vinyl ahead of her debut U.S tour this spring.  In this episode, Hatis shares the personal story that inspired her take up singing as her primary musical expression and why she see’s voice as the most connective instrument. She tells us why live performance is key to her completing songs and how the studio setting played a role in the creation and atmosphere of Aura. We hear how Taro Okamota inspired the high energy piece Jomon, why a visit from a squirrel dug her out of an artistic low point and we hear a couple magical tunes. Hatis Noit Erased Tapes Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

Duane Denison is a songwriter, guitarist and founding member of Tomahawk, The Denison/Kimball Trio and most notable and widely influential, The Jesus Lizard. The Jesus Lizard have recorded six studio albums, two live recordings and a brace of singles and EPs, with the band’s seventh album, Rack, out September 13 via Ipecac Recordings. Armed with their never dusty, always furious chops, The Jesus Lizard will support Rack with both national and international touring throughout 2024 and 25.  Duane share’s his early relationship with music, why he decided to pick up a guitar and his path from classical training, to heavy, angular rock and jazz. He tells us why The Jesus Lizard are able to retain their energy and intensity over their long career and why quality control is so important to the band.  We also learn how refinement and brutal honesty play a role in the evolution of his guitar playing.  Joe and Duane discuss the celebration of “heavy music” in the UK with bands like IDLES, and we hear a couple new Jesus Lizard tunes. The Jesus Lizard Ipecac Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

PONY is a guitar power pop duo from Windsor, Ontario by way of Toronto. Currently comprised of singer/songwriter/founding member Sam Bielanski and multi-instrumentalist/co-collaborator Matty Morand, the band has releasedVelveteen (Take This To Heart Records), a irresistible hook laden hyper catchy effort that dabbles with The Velveteen Rabbit as a vehicle for expressing the power of giving love and acceptance. In this episode, we learn why the duo are drawn to the more sugary side of guitar rock but at the same time don't feel confined to the genre. Matty and Sam also share their collaborative process, the role The Velveteen Rabbit plays on the new record and their approach to live performance. Matty hips Joe to the Windsor touring scene, we learn about their podcast 2 Much TV and we hear a couple new tunes. This episode supported by Native Instruments, iZotope, and Plugin Alliance. Check out "Summer of Sound", the best ever savings on ALL software, with 50% off products, updates, and upgrades, plus special hardware and software bundle deals . Visit all 3 online shops to capture these insane deals! https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ https://www.izotope.com/ https://www.plugin-alliance.com/ https://ponytheband.ca/album/velveteen https://www.takethistoheartrecords.com/

James Petralli is the singer, guitarist, and a founding member of White Denim. Their twelfth record “12” is set to be released on 12.12 via Bella Union.  James shares his journey from baseball to rock n roll, how the “absurd career choice” paralleled his dad’s and why learning how to talk about music was his ticket into his formative music circles. James tells us how “12” is drastically different from previous White Denim records, why he thinks being creative is inarguably the most positive thing he can do, and he explains his process of “live mixing”. Joe and James celebrate airport reverberations, what role confrontation plays in James’s live performance and we hear a couple rip roaring tunes.   White Denim Bella Union Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Hello and Thank You All for your support in 2024! More to come in 2025! Thank you to all my wonderful guests. Thank you Izotope and Distrokid. Please visit Izotope and Distrokid for continued exclusive listener discounts.

Jess Sylvester is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Los Angeles. His third full length record as Marinero is called La La La and is set for release on February 14th via Hardly Art. In this episode, Jess shares his rock n roll experiences growing up in the Bay Area, his stint in Guadalajara collaborating with local musicians and how his ultimate move to LA shaped and informed the new record.   He tells us why key changes were so important to his process on the new record, what recording with Chris Cohen was like and explains some of the lighthearted double entendre on the newest salsa infused single, Taquero. Joe and Jess discover they were on paralleling tours in Mexico and the US, and we hear a couple new songs. Marinero Hardly Art Episode supported by Izotope Ep supported by our friends @izotope. Izotope holiday savings start now! Head over to izotope.com now to and get massive savings on all their production software. Use code FRET10 at check out. Episode supported by Distrokid Check out the Distrokid App! and NOW you can apply for a TikTok Artist Account directly through your DistroKid account! All at distrokid.com

Dax Riggs is a singer songwriter and guitarist based in Lafayette, Louisiana. He has spent much of his career in the worlds of metal, punk-blues, and psych rock, starting with the heavy sludge band Acid Bath as a teenager then moving through country-punk, folk and gospel along his journey. His newest record in 12+ years, 7 Songs For Spiders (out now via Fat Possum) is a honed and realized expression of death, life and the door in between. Dax tells us why he left the scene for such a long time, what he learned and how he fell in gospel singing along the way. He shares his writing process, how he examines and re-examines his tunes and why goosebumps are his main barometer. We learn why Dax picked up a guitar in the first place, Joe and Dax share some early band experiences and we hear a few tunes. Dax Riggs Fat Possum Records PLEASE visit Izotope (discount code FRET10) and Distrokid for continued exclusive listener discounts.

Joseph Shabason is a songwriter, a film and TV composer and a multi-instrumentalist based in Toronto, Ontario. He has recorded and collaborated with The War On Drugs, The Operators, Destroyer, DIANA and has released several solo records.  His newest record, Welcome To Hell is a concept record directly inspired by the influential 1996 Toy Machine skate video of the same name. This re-imagined soundtrack is a spacious and spacey freeish jazz odyssey that is grounded in ECM sonic textures, late 60’s Miles Davis reverberations and the very now vibes of experimental hip hop.  Joseph tells us how Welcome To Hell differs from his previous records and how growing up in a rural Canada played a role in the concept.  He shares the negative feedback he’s received about the record and how he’s spun it into a positive and a new perspective on art in general. We get proof that Ed Templeton is truly a wonderfully rad dude and Joseph tells us the story of Chad Muska at Welcome To Hell video premier. Joe cures Joseph of Covid and we hear a few tunes. Joseph Shabason Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Native Instruments

Ryan Patterson is the singer, song-writer, guitarist and founding member of Fotocrime, a cinematic tinged post-punk synth-electropop band based in Louisville. Their fourth record, Accelerated (out on Artoffact Records September 8th) takes the band a step further into the dark wave, this time with a richer melodic landscape and more inclusive genre portfolio. In this episode Ryan shares his lyrical process and inspiration for the new record and how it connects to previous releases. He tells us about his experience of growing up in rural Kentucky as a DC scene obsessed kid and how that influenced his industrious work ethic in both his music and successful non-music endeavors. We learn how he beat his allergy to cats and hear a few new tunes. Fotocrime Artofact Records Cat Magic Punks Shirt Killer This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software. Check it all out at Izotope

Aviv Rubinstien is a Philly native, musician, filmmaker and podcaster living and working in Los Angeles. He has written and directed several feature films both in the United States and Southeast Asia. A true hyphenate, Aviv is the singer for the rock n roll band Jacob The Horse, he teaches screenwriting and filmmaking at Emerson College and Hussian College Los Angeles and, along side Rachel Brodsky, he co-host of*IN SYNC, the podcast celebrating the perfect on-screen needle drop. In this episode, Aviv and Joe share their favorite needle drops and Aviv not only gives us a definition, but also the distinction between needle drop and score. We hear about the sit-com-esc origin of *IN SYNC, and how it may quell the battle of the two loves in his life, music and cinema. Last, Aviv shares a truly outrageous tour story that changed his perspective on his life at the time, all through the lens of a band created for a film project. Episode supported by Native Instruments. visit https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ for 50% off Komplete 14 Select using code "podcast" Episode supported by Izotope. Go to https://www.izotope.com/ for 10% off all software using code "FRET10" https://redcircle.com/shows/insync https://jacobthehorse.bandcamp.com/album/jacob-the-horse

Logan Lynn is a singer, songwriter, producer, filmmaker, and activist currently based in the Northwest. For the past 25 years, he has been recording and releasing music with Caroline, EMI and The Dandy Warhol’s label, Beat The World. His newest record, Softcore, will release on June 7th via Kill Rock Stars, alongside a film of the same name. Logan shares his story of growing up in a Christian cult, how that led him to creating music in his youth and how he wound up in Portland, Or during his artistically formative years. He shares the love loss and self-motivated loneliness that inspired the new record and how he came to a Bill Callahan/Smog song as his lead single.  He tells us about his involvement with Pass The Mic, a foundation started by Portugal The Man that advocates philanthropy and community engagement around universal issues related to human rights, community health, and the environment with a specific focus on the stories of Indigenous Peoples. Logan also shares his community’s reaction to his attendance to a White House Pride event, and we hear a few tunes. Logan Lynn Kill Rock Stars Pass The Mic Foundation Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Heather Larimer and Brian Naubert are the husband/wife duo that make up Portland based power-pop band Corvair. Their potent sophomore effort Bound to Be is out now via Paper Walls and Where It's At Is Where You Are. In this episode we discuss how their relationship plays into their writing process and how that has changed. They share their long game of record output and the process of making Bound To Be in Seattle, Portland and Oakland. Brian tells us why he's in happy song sad song limbo, Heather breaks down the idea behind new song Shady Town and the two tell us what it's like to write a love letter to your band member. We do some heavy Scirocco talk and hear a couple new tunes. This episode supported by Native Instruments, iZotope, and Plugin Alliance. Check out "Summer of Sound", the best ever savings on ALL software, with 50% off products, updates, and upgrades, plus special hardware and software bundle deals . Visit all 3 online shops to capture these insane deals! https://www.corvairband.com/

Joe Wong is a LA based musician, film and tv composer, producer, and podcaster. His newest record, Mere Survival, is a lush orchestral psychedelic pop odyssey laden with timeless song structure and stacked with the heaviest of heavy hitting guest musicians (Mary Timony, Nate Mendel, Money Mark, Jim Keltner and Matt Cameron, to name of few).  Joe (Wong) shares the motivation behind this realistic, yet despair rich record, and how this stage in his career naturally led to its completion. The Joe’s discuss the absurdity of the all-star cast of contributors and why Joe Wong sees making a record as an innately social experience. The two exchange their gleaned wisdom they’ve absorbed from Buzz Osborne, Joe (Wong) tells us why he’s getting his podcast The Trap Set up and running again and we hear his plans for upcoming performances of Mere Survival. As usual, we hear a few tunes and soak up the vibrations. Joe Wong Mere Survival Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

Lollise is a Botswana born, Brooklyn based singer, songwriter, and multidisciplinary artist. After cutting her teeth recording and touring with the FELA! band and Underground System, she has brought her song writing efforts to the forefront with her debut LP, I Hit The Water, out September 6 via Switch Hit Records. Lollise shares the story behind the new record, why it plays tribute to her family's journey and how it keeps her connection with Botswana. She tells us how the lead single, eDube, is both a message to her deceased father and honors her mother’s experience with his passing.  We learn how intuition guides her writing process, how collaboration played a role on the new record and why she does NOT like playing her song Birthday. Joe and Lollise bond on the power of rehearsal, the beauty of the shekere, their fixation with vintage fashion and we hear a couple tunes. Lollise Switch Hit Records Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Aaron Hartman is a writer, musician and podcaster based in Portland, Oregon. He is a founding member and bass player of Northwest indie legends Old Time Relijun, electro dance-rock pioneers IQU and releases music under the moniker Marine Layer. His newest endeavor, La Jolla Babylon-The Making Of A Suburban Punk, (out 10.18 via Ruinous Media) is a poignant and hilarious podcast where Aaron shares stories about his stormy youth growing up punk in a conservative beach town with his Millennial sister, actor, writer and comedian Katie Hartman. In this episode, Joe and Aaron get to the bottom of their first meeting and how Olympia’s music scene’s eventual acceptance of Joe led to the two playing together in the Replikants. Aaron shares how the struggle to publish his fictionalized memoir led to his new podcast, why he asked his sister Katie to join him and why it’s a platform for he and Katie to celebrate their closeness and rapport. The two quip about changing the narrative with their longtime friend Sara Lund and Aaron shares an outrageous story about sperm donation and how his older sister wrote a play inspired by the experience. Marine Layer Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Danny Davis is the singer, guitarist and a founding member of Oklahoma City based band Husbands. Joe and Danny are currently on tour together, with their respective band’s Cold War Kids and Husbands. Danny shares his first memories of hearing music with his dad on long drives and how his older brother informed his musical tastes as a youngster.  He tells us how 9-5 work life has motivated the trajectory of Husbands; how celebrating life is key to the culture of Husbands and why the synchronicity of the current lineup is influencing their songwriting. We learn how the Metallica movie Some Kind Of Monster inspired Joe’s favorite Husbands song, why Danny is dedicated to landing a kick-flip before he dies and we hear a couple tunes. Husbands Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

This is the Built In Sun appreciation episode. Released on August 7, 2015 via PIAPTK Records, Built In Sun is Joe Plummer's first and currently only solo record. BIS began as an instrumental idea, with inspirations landing somewhere between John Cale’s Fear, the punker vibrations of The Wipers, guitarist John Reis and Joe’s favorite soundtrackists, John Brion and Clint Mansell. Recorded both at his studio in Seattle and with the late Richard Swift at National Freedom, Joe made a point to collaborate with his friends and former bandmates. The lyrics and vocals on the record are provided by longtime friend and former The Black Heart Procession colleague, Pall Jenkins, with additional players David Bazan and Cody Votolato filling out the piano and guitar respectively. In this episode, Joe expresses his love for the opportunity to make a record with his pals and leaves an easter egg or two. Built in Sun Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Jim McCullough is a founding member and singer for the Melbourne based proto-punk band Civic. Civic has embarked on their first North American tour with three-pronged support of their most recent single Hourglass, the US release of their record New Vietnam and their most recent record, Taken By Force (all available via ATO Records). In this episode, Joe and Jim discuss the punk evolution of the band in a relatively short amount of time, what drives them to write great songs and why it's important to keep rock n roll alive. Jim tells us why the Civic live show is different from the recordings, how it relates to his background in music and he shares a bit of the Civic cooperative writing/recording process. We get Jim's impression of the first US Civic tour, his take on IHOP and we hear a couple tunes. CIVIC ATO RECORDS Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Native Instruments

This episode is dedicated to the life, music and art of Rick Froberg, singer and guitarist for the bands Pitchfork, Drive Like Jehu, Hot Snakes, and Obits. I can remember the first time I heard Pitchfork at Fallout records in Seattle. From the moment I heard his cracking voice, the hooky jangle of his riffs, I was hooked on everything Rick. His stage presence, his vinegary and potent version of Fuck The Man messaging and of course his visual art that delivered the same message in such a beautifully sarcastic fashion. I had that chance to spend time with Rick here and there over the years, and I feel so fortunate to know him on and off the stage . I’ll always remember that constant half smirk that somehow both intimidated me and brought me in to his warmth at the same time. If you are unfamiliar with Rick's body of work both visually and musically, seek it out and enjoy. Rick inspired my ears, my eyes and my heart. RIP TRACKLIST Pitchfork: Burn pigs burn Pitchfork: Placebo Dive Like Jehu: Caress Drive Like Jehu: Do you compute  Drive Like Jehu: Luau Drive Like Jehu: Bullet Train To Vegas Hot Snakes: LAX Hot Snakes: If Credit’s What Matters I’ll Take Credit Hot Snakes: Checkmate Obits: I Blame You Obits: I Want Results Obits: No Fly List Drive Like Jehu: Hand Over Fist

Fleamale is a three piece band based in Seattle. Sasha, Vivi and Max tell us how the Seattle punk community brought Fleamale together and how that community influenced their perspective on performing and writing music. Vivi tells us why internet searches challenged her to not only be better at guitar, but a better person. The three tell us why they want to create a space for both underrepresented voices in their scene and an opportunity for more challenging music led by women.  Maxine shares her first touring experience (at 17), Vivi’s tells us how she came around to “old music” and Sasha tells us whey Fiona Apple is important to her songwriting. Joe share’s how he learned about Fleamale from a Trader Joe’s employee, we hear two unreleased tunes and Fleamale’s discuss their plans for recording. Fleamale Please visit Izotope and Distrokid for continued exclusive listener discounts.

Justin Moyer is a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and founding member of Washington D.C. dance punkers, Light Beams. He's also an original member or El Guapo, Antelope and a reporter for The Washington Post, where his work with the Post team was honored with a Pulitzer Prize for their coverage of the January 6th Capitol insurrection. Light Beams newest record, Wild Life is out November 3rd via Dischord Records/Mud Memory. In this episode, Justin shares his firsthand experience with a school shooting, which is directly addressed in Light Beams current single, Coming Our Way. We hear about his musical education in Philadelphia, why he added more members to Light Beams and why he prefers to write songs vertically rather than horizontally. They talk biking on tour, Justin's process of balancing two time consuming vocations and he delivers breaking news on the rock n roll origin of his byline. Joe discovers a secret sound on the new record and we hear a couple tunes. Light Beams Dischord Records Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

Sarah Mary Chadwick is a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist based in Melbourne. She will release her eighth studio record Messages To God on September 15th via Kill Rock Stars. Produced by Tony Espie, this playful and raw romp through personal darkness leaves the listener "entertained" and surprisingly optimistic. In this episode Sarah shares the reason for her early piano training and how it played a role in her early childhood home-life. She tells us how the low entry barrier of the of her local hardcore scene allowed her to get involved in live performance and why she stuck with it. Joe and Sarah discuss the notion of being an "entertainer", how Tetris is a model for her lyrical progression and we hear a few tunes from Messages To God. For more: Sarah Mary Chadwick Kill Rock Stars This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software. Check it all out at Izotope

Maria BC is a singer, songwriter and ambient musician based in Oakland, Ca. Growing up in a musical household, Maria was encouraged to sing and is grateful for the 10 years of vocal training they enjoyed throughout their childhood. Since 2020, Maria has self-recorded and released two well received records and the third, Spike Field (out now on Sacred Bones) is a sprawling and spacious ambient journey laced with broad reverberations, dark folk guitar, synthesizers and choral stacking. Maria shares the idea behind Spike Field and how our battles with past and future selves relate to the field of nuclear semiotics. Joe and Maria discuss the meaning behind the song Watcher and what motivates them to take an outward reaching position in song writing. They share their perfectionist style of recording, why Oakland is the best city in the world, and we hear a couple tunes. Maria BC Sacred Bones Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope

Finally, Joe Plummer tells a Tour Story of his own. He shares the true tail of a life threatening close call on a trip to Sevilla, Spain with his band at the time, The Black Heart Procession. A real life view into the romance, the love, the danger and the foolishness of life on the road from a seasoned touring musician. In this episode Joe is joined by a surprise (an mysterious) musical guest to accompany his story. Also, we hear the original version of Honeybear, the Tour Stories them song with the great Paul Jenkins from The Black Heart Procession on vocals. http://www.joeplummermusic.com/ http://www.palljenkins.com/theblackheartprocession https://www.ruinousmedia.com/tourstories This episode sponsored by https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ and https://www.izotope.com/

John Goff, also known as Cascadia Bagpiper, has been a professional bagpiper since 1984. Originally from San Diego, he currently resides in the Pacific Northwest and plays memorials, funerals, weddings, and various celebrations. John is also an experimental musician, playing guitar, synthesizer and bagpipes with a wide range of musicians including Crash Worship, Neurosis, Merzbow, Steve Von Till, and NØISE, a collaboration with artist Shepard Fairey. In this episode, John shares a few of his many anecdotes, experiences and insights as an experimental musician turned professional bagpiper. We also get a brief history of the instrument, the outfit and the journey that landed him in this vocation. Long time pals Joe and John get a chance to catch up, hear some fruits of their collaborations and they revisit the time Vincent Gallo visited John at his Portland home. This ep is supported Native Instruments. Use code "podcast" to get 50% off Komplete 14 Select, visit https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ This ep is also supported by Izotope. Use code "fret10" to receive your software discount at https://www.izotope.com/ https://www.cascadiabagpiper.com/ http://www.noiseproject.com/

Coady Willis is a drummer based in Los Angeles CA. He has a robust pedigree of performing and recording with The Murder City Devis, Big Business, Melvins and High On Fire, to name a few. He is also one of three drummers on the all percussion record, Hew Time, along with Joe and Dale Crover. Coady tells us how his uncle helped pave the way for life as a rock n roll drummer, why seeing the band Tribe 8 changed his early teen perspective on performance and he shares his experience of playing in bands in Mt. Vernon and Seattle in his formative years. He also shares his journey from being a young Dale Crover fan to eventually playing alongside Dale in Melvins. The two drummers discuss their individual approaches to joining an established band, the hurdles that come with it, and why being conscientious of the group’s chemistry is crucial. Finally, Coady talks about his long history with High On Fire and why recording and writing the new record Cometh The Storm (out now via MNRK Music Group) was such an educational and rewarding experience.  We hear a few tunes from Cometh The Storm and of course the drummers talk drums. High On Fire MNRK Music Group Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Sameer Gadhia is the singer and a founding member of Young The Giant. He also hosts the podcast Point Of Origin, which celebrates the lives and careers of musicians of color in the indie and alternative rock world. In this episode, Joe recovers an early recording where Sameer shares a few YTG experiences of being celebrated in Italy at the height of their hit single, Cough Syrup. We hear about the confusion of covering American Girl in front of a massive, lightly anti-American crowd; classic lip-syncing pranks; the hilarity of an entire country mispronouncing you’re biggest song and some daring yet cerebral food choices. Young The Giant Point Of Origin Podcast Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Seán Barna is a singer, songwriter and has been playing drums professionally since he was 14, cutting his teeth in Floridian honky-tonks and eventually graduating to the touring broadway production of The Producers. Seán's interests have since turned to a more up front position, taking on both singing and writing for his solo efforts which has led him to recording 3 records and touring the world for the past several years. His newest effort , An Evening at Macri Park — "a character study of the dimly-lit Brooklyn queer bar, Macri Park, and the creatures who thrive within its walls" is also a celebration of protest, the social energy of folk music and lush production. In this episode, Seán shares his early life as a professional drummer, what led to theater and stage production work, and how meeting Adam Duritz from Counting Crows change his career trajectory. Joe and Seán discuss the catalyst and process behind An Evening at Macri Park and the two drummers of course..... talk drums. We learn what a gay cactus looks like and hear a few tunes. An Evening at Macri Park will be released May 12th on Kill Rock Stars. https://seanbarna.bandcamp.com/album/an-evening-at-macri-park https://www.dangeroussounds.com/ https://killrockstars.com/ This ep is supported Native Instruments. Use code "podcast" to get 50% off Komplete 14 Select, visit https://www.native-instruments.com/en/ This ep is also supported by Izotope. Use code "fret10" to receive your software discount at https://www.izotope.com/

Matt Pryor a singer, songwriter, podcaster and author form Lawrence, Kansas. He is a founding member of the Get Up Kids, The New Amsterdam’s and host’s the podcast Nothing To Write Home About and 25 Years On The Street. His debut memoir, Red Letter Days (out 1.23.24 Washed Up Book) is taken from journal entries between 1990-2000 and is made up of short vignettes that follows his life as a musician growing up, pursing the dream of success and his earliest experiences touring. He also shares his early childhood growing up in Lawrence and his struggle with childhood diabetes. In this episode, Matt shares how writer Frank Turner encouraged him to write his memoir, why the book helped him hit a welcomed rock bottom and why finishing the book put into a depression. He explains how a simple writing exercise evolved into Red Letter Days, why the editing process was foreign to him and how songwriting and story writing are similar in his process. Joe and Matt discuss the beauty and positivity of “the pit” and they discover they were born in the same hospital along with their mutual pal Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe. Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Native Instruments

Omni is a three-piece Atlanta based outfit comprised of guitarist Frankie Broyles, bassist/singer Philip Frobos and drummer Chris Yonker. Their fourth studio album, Souvenir (out now via Sub Pop) is an angular adventure of hooky guitar wizardry, tight and slinky rhythms topped with sheeny melodies and lyrics that set them apart from other post punkers. They share their experience growing up in Atlanta, the scene that took them in and motivated them to start a band. We hear the process behind the new record, what sparked the change in lyrical perspective and how new drummer Chris Yonker contributes to the sound of Souvenir. The four discuss the process behind their visual aesthetic, share tips for hotel deals on the road and we hear a couple tunes. Omni Sub Pop Records Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Joe P is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who writes, records and self-produces from his basement studio in Asbury Park, NJ. HIs newest record, Shadows in the Sun is expected to be released in summer 2024 and currently has 3 singles out via Atlantic records. Joe tells us how he got his start playing music and a very young age and shares his experience of trying to fit into his local hardcore scene in his late teens. He tells us about his approach to songwriting as an entirely self-produced artist, his philosophy on live performance verses recording and why he ended up recording vocals in his van while on a recent tour. The two discuss shoes, why it’s important to make touring loveable and we hear a few tunes. Joe P Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Along with Keely Martin, Piper Torrison is a singer, guitarist, songwriter and 1/2 of the Boston based rock duo, Mediocre. Their newest effort , To You Know You're Screwed is due out April 7th and is their first release with Dangerbird Records. In this episode, Joe and Piper discuss the bi coastal effort it took to make the new record, how Piper and Keely are artistically joined and the idea behind "knowing you're screwed" and how it relates to entering adulthood. Piper also shares the meaning of the newest single Pop Song Baby , and why this perspective goes beyond the fem tokenism. Piper tells us why video and visual art are equally as important as music to Mediocre and we hear a couple tunes. https://mediocretheband.bandcamp.com/music https://ffm.to/toknowyourescrewed

Jake Morris is a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter based in Portland, Or. Outside of drumming for Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks, he releases solo records under the name Street Nights. His most recent record, The Long Goodbye is out now via his own label, Community Guidelines. Jake and Joe talk about their early drums lessons and Jake shares how a Living Color song sent him on the path of self-education.  He tells us why a more methodical approach to recording the new record was a more satisfying process and allowed him to not only be more focused, but more creative. The two discuss the current climate of touring, why it’s more difficult and why they still pine for performing live. They share their election day experiences, compare the films The Long Goodbye and Fletch, and we hear a couple new tunes. Street Nights Episode supported by Izotope Ep supported by our friends @izotope. Izotope cyber week starts now! Head over to izotope.com now to and get massive savings on all their production software. Use code FRET10 at check out. Its black bundle Friday at @izotope NOW! Massive savings on All software bundles. limited time only.  11.29-12.02. Get the best deals of the year now. FRET10 Episode supported by Distrokid Check out the Distrokid App!

Jayan Bertrand is a singer, songwriter, guitarist and founding member of Miami based band Seafoam Walls. Their anticipated sophomore effort, Standing Too Close To The Elephant In The Room, will be out October 18th via Dion Dia Records, with two singles Humanitarian Pt. II and Cabin Fever out now.  Jayan explains how their last stint of touring both inspired and funded the new record, allowing them to go into the studio more clear headed and intentional than their debut release. Joe and Jayan exchange their views on the dilution of counterculture from the perspective of touring musicians and how their experiences were different. Jayan shares his love for harmonizing guitars, the band Deerhoof, and tells us how his writing has evolved to a more collaborative process.  We learn why the band integrated samples and pads into their acoustic drum sound, Jayan hips us to a regional Chattanoogan fruit and we hear a couple tunes. Seafoam Walls Dion Dia Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Tara Jane O’Neil is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and visual artist residing in California. She composes and performs under her own name and in collaboration with other musicians, artists, dancers, and filmmakers. As a solo artist she has released ten full-length albums and her newest record, The Cool Cloud Of Okayness is out now on Orindal Records and available everywhere. Tara shares her experience playing music as a youngster, sitting in on a friend’s guitar lessons, learning bass from Jefferson Airplane and Pixies records and ultimately starting bands Rodan and Drinking Women. She tells us why she almost stopped making records, what changed that trajectory and how it affected her songwriting approach.  We learn how “good feelings” is the catalyst for the new record, why acting fast with her guitar was so important and how the title track came to her in an afternoon. Joe and Tara flirt with getting stoned on the beach together, discuss the importance of “diva status” and we hear a few tunes. Tara Jane O'neil Orindal Records Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Pinhead Gunpowder is an East Bay punk band formed in 1991. The current line up consists of Aaron Cometbus (lyrics, drums), Bill Schneider (bass) Billie Joe Armstrong (guitar, vocals) and Jason White (guitar, vocals). After 16 years and several EP’s, the band will release their second full length LP, Unt, on October 18th via 1234 Go! Records.  Bill and Jason share the origin of their rock n roll relationship, how the band ultimately formed and why their spacious cadence of activity has never resulted in a lack of enthusiasm or energy for the band.  We learn how Aaron’s lyrical phrasing guides the chord changes, why trust comes so easy in their collective song writing and how a game they play in rehearsal lead to writing the new record.  The two tell us why this record sounds different to them, they share their experience working with producer Chris Dugan and they explain the meaning of Unt. They discuss why Bill isn’t allowed to be a cobbler, what Jason does at home when not on the road with Green Day and we hear couple brand new tunes.  Pinhead Gunpowder 1234 Go Records Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid

Eva Walker is the singer and guitarist for the Seattle band The Black Tones. In this episode Eva shares her experiences with the weird practices of a bizzarro sound guy on a recent week long West Coast tour . The Black Tones Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Native Instruments

Hayden Desser is a seasoned, self-producing singer songwriter from Toronto. After close to a 8-year break, Hayden has released a full length record via Arts and Crafts. This newest effort, Are We Good, celebrates a new writing approach and collaborations with Matt Berninger (The National) Leslie Feist (Feist) and Aaron Dessner (The National). In typical fashion the record is accompanied by thoughtful, cinematic videos that include a cameo by pal and collaborator Steve Buscemi. In this episode Joe and Hayden discuss his 8 year "break" and how it resulted in a new record and a stronger sense of patience. Hayden shares his experience of collaborating lyrically, his view on touring after a long stint at home and the importance of video to his overall expression. He shares a bit of his recording process and we hear a couple tunes. Episode supported by Izotope and Native Instruments. https://arts-crafts.ca/ https://www.wasteyourdaysaway.com/ https://haydendesser.bandcamp.com/album/are-we-good https://www.native-instruments.com/en/

This week Joe shares a tour story from a show in Conway, Arkansas with The Black Heart Procession in 2002. What could go wrong could go right. This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software. Check it all out at Izotope

Dustin O’Halloran is an American pianist and composer with six acclaimed solo albums under his own name. He has scored multiple films and TV shows, won an Emmy for the theme to Transparent and has been nominated for an Oscar, a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award for his score to Lion, a collaboration with Volker Bertelmann (aka Hauschka). His most recent album, 1 0 0 1, is an instrumental four-movement exploration of the nature of the human mind, implications of artificial intelligence and raises questions of humanity in a world intertwined with technology is out now via Deutsche Grammophon.  Dustin shares how his early relationship with music influenced his trajectory to go from a rock-oriented guitarist and singer to a solo pianist creating instrumental music. He tells us how 1 0 0 1 evolved from a performance dance piece to expansive sonic journey and functioned as a bridge to a new artistic path. Dustin and Joe discuss his process in writing and recording 1 0 0 1, Dustin walks us through the inspiration behind the four movements and he explains why texture drives his creativity. The two celebrate the power of re-amping and we hear two pieces from 1 0 0 1. Dustin O'Halloran Deutsche Grammophon Episode supported by Izotope Episode supported by Distrokid Episode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

This week Joe has a vibrant conversation with Bonnie  Bloomgarden, singer, songwriter and founding member of Death Valley Girls.  Bonnie and Joe discuss the impact that touring has had on her life, how a recent tour has served as version of exposure therapy. and why the involuntary break has positively changed both her life at home and her perspective of life on the road.   Bonnie tells us how hypnosis plays a role in her song writing and why she feels lucky that her favorite animal is a dog.  We hear a new tune from the Death Valley Girls/Le Butcherettes  split  7” on Suicide Squeeze Records and Bonnie hips us to her new paranormal podcast, Death Valley Girls Podcasthttps://suicidesqueeze.net/https://deathvalleygirls.bandcamp.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Kassie is a founding member, singer and lyricist for Guerilla Toss.  In this episode Kassie and Joe discuss her life at home during the involuntary touring break, what happens when her "home life" and "rock n roll" life meet and why she's looking forward to getting back on the road and supporting Famously Alive  (out March 25th on Sub Pop Records).   Kassie shares how her close friend and collaborator helped her kick a heroin habit and why that relationship is so important to the new record.   She also explains how the video for the single was born out of a stress nap and why her dog  Watley is built for touring.  We hear the new single,  Cannibal Capitol  and close the episode with Betty Dreams of  Green Men  from GT Ultra. https://www.subpop.com/https://guerillatoss.bandcamp.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

This week Joe talks to Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker from the band Low.  They share both the difficult and productive experience they've had at home over the last two years and why the pandemic  effected them more than expected. They discuss the process of making their new Grammy nominated record Hey What (out now on Sub Pop records), how the final sound was established in the writing process and why Alan is taking a new approach to his guitar sound. With several shows booked in Europe and the U.S., Alan and Mimi express their excitement and apprehension of touring  and what they’re most looking forward to.  Joe raves over the videos that accompany Hey What  and we hear a couple tunes. https://lowtheband.bandcamp.com/https://www.subpop.com/artists/lowVisit out sponsor https://www.izotope.com/ for a 10% discount. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Chris is the bass player for Jawbreaker.  After a 20 year hiatus and a 2 year pandemic break, they are back with sold out shows across North America. Chris tells us what he's been up to over the break, why he went the academia route, and why he ultimately abandoned it.  Joe and Chris talk the importance of snappy dressing, the regional rules of bagels and sourdough and Chris shares both his apprehensions and excitement for returning to the road.  To get you pumped on the tour, we hear a tune from Dear You (which they will be playing in entirety) and Joe's favorite song from 24 Hour Revenge Therapy.   Music by Jawbreaker and Joe Plummer Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Sam Tallent has earned his PhD in touring as a stand-up comedian, an author and drummer. He's been on the road since his late teens,  has a best selling novel and an ever growing career in comedy to show for it.  Joe and Sam discuss his current reluctance to become a parent, why it was good for him to be something other than a comedian over the involuntary break and what touring feels like now.  Joe gets a lesson on the hierarchy of comedy performance, and not only do they discuss Sams newest novel Running the Light,  but we hear a gorgeous passage read by the author himself.  We also hear a couple numbers from Sam's punk band Big City Drugs.https://www.samtallent.com/https://bigcitydrugs.bandcamp.com/album/human-cargo Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Walt Disco is a young stylish band from Glasgow. Over the last two years they wrote, recorded and self produced their debt album, Unlearning  (Out April 1st on Lucky Number Music).  In this episode Joe talks with 2 members of the sextet, singer James and keyboardist/guitarist Finley.   James and Finely share the process of making Unlearning , why they wanted it to sound "scrappy", how that forced them to think differently and why self producing gave them a sense of childlike wonderment.   We learn what drives them to have a strong stylized aesthetic and they share a couple stories from their experience playing the Celine show in Paris.  They also discuss the influence of new wave AND no wave and tell us what they love about touring. We hear a couple tunes from Unlearning.  https://waltdisco.bandcamp.com/musichttps://www.luckynumbermusic.com/releases/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Mark Watrous is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and a producer. He's recorded and toured extensively with The Shins, Shudder To Think, The Raconteurs and is a founding member of Loudermilk and Earl Burrows.  Before hearing a pair of tour stories involving a reckless tour manager and a meth fueled ill-planned show in Sandpoint, Idaho, Joe and Mark catch up. We hear what Marks been up during the Shins break and he reminds us that WE'RE All waiting for vinyl.  We hear Joe's favorite Earl Burrows tune and..........BONUS!!!!!! the debut of a very special cover of The Fixx's One Thing Leads To Another performed by Mark, Joe and Nate Mendel.https://www.theshins.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

 Joel Jerome is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Los Angeles, CA.  His solo debut, Super Flower Blood Moon  (Dangerbird Records)  hits the streets on May 13th, and promises a dark,  folky trip that celebrates his 90's indie rock influences as much and it pays homage to his latin roots.  In this episode Joel tells us how the pandemic opened his eyes to activism, how that's translated to his work with The Union of  Musicians and Allied Workers  (UMAW) and why unions are important to working musicians.  We hear how his long time pal Jim Fairchild (Modest Mouse, Grandaddy, All Smiles) had a hand in the early stages of Super Flower Blood Moon and why it was different from past records.   Joel also share's his view on   "capturing recordings" verses "producing" and how thats applied in his own studio, Psychedelic Thriftstore.  Joe plays a couple tunes from the new record  and Joel tells us where's he's looking forward to touring in 2022.  https://dangerbirdrecords.com/https://joeljeromemusic.bandcamp.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Gavin McCarthy is a drummer and songwriter from Boston, MA.  He's written, recorded and toured with a multitude of bands and projects over the last two decades, with his main efforts focussed on E and Karate.  After a long period of chasing down the masters, Karate is re-releasing their entire catalog with the Numero Group. In this episode Gavin catches us up on his life during the involuntary break, gives us the low down on the Boston venue scene and tells us how taking a break from music changed his self-identity. He also gives us his thoughts on reunion tours, why he's looking forward to this summers Karate dates and why the concept of a live record is odd.   Joe and Gavin swop a couple stories that celebrate the beauty and chaos of touring in Italy and we hear a couple Karate tunes. https://www.gavinmccarthy.com/https://karateallston.bandcamp.com/https://numerogroup.com/search?q=Karate&options%5Bprefix%5D=last Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Brian Cook is a bass guitarist and song-writer from Seattle. He's an active member of Russian Circles and Sumac, writing, recording and touring extensively.  After a ten year break, his band These Arms Are Snakes with be playing a handful of shows in celebration of the release of Duct Tape and Shivering Crows, a collection of rarities, covers and demos out April 15th on Suicide Squeeze Records. In this episode,  Joe and Brian discuss how a recent break has helped him recognize his autonomy,  why his solo record made him a better band member and the importance of rehearsing chaos as well as the music.  Not only a musician, Brian is a freelance writer, has published one novel (The Second Chair Is Meant For You) and is working on a second.  He shares his view on the difference between writing words verses writing music and how imperfection plays a role in both art forms.  Joe and Brian swop a couple "sleeping in the van" stories and we hear some tunes from Duct Tape and Shivering Crows.https://store.suicidesqueeze.net/https://thesearmsaresnakes.bandcamp.com/album/duct-tape-shivering-crowshttps://russiancirclesband.com/brian-cook Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

This week we salute our partnership with The High Gain Podcast, a podcast that celebrates the guitar. Each week John Kieltyka and Ed Peterson will introduce you to a guitar, share its cultural significance and provide you a slew of questionable (and likely very funny) facts on its origin and history. You'll laugh, you'll cry and you'll realize that this podcast is not just for guitar enthusiasts, but anyone who enjoys a good time.   Episode 206   The CBS-Fender deal went down in 1965, but the story started well before then. Enjoy! - 1966 Fender Stratocasterhttps://www.thehighgain.com/podcast/66-stratocasterhttps://www.ruinousmedia.com/thehighgain Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Will Brooks (aka MC Dälek) is a founding member, vocalist and producer for the group Dälek.  For close to 20 years Will has been releasing dark, experimental hip-hop records and collaborating with a wide range of like minded artists that include Kid 606, Faust, The Black Heart Procession and Techno Animal.  In this episode Joe and Will discuss the process of making the new Dälek record Precipice (out 4.29 on Ipecac Records), why he abandoned the first version and how Adam Jones from Tool  wound up contributing to a song.  Will tells us how his collection of improvisational recordings known as Meditations got him through the last couple years of not touring and why the outcome surprised both him and his listeners. He also shares his view on music and touring as a vocation and why he's grateful for any visceral reaction to his music, whether it's positive or negative.  Joe and Will remember sharing a stage at the ATP festival and we hear a couple tunes from Precipice. https://deadverse.com/https://www.ipecac.com/artists/dalek Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Lou Barlow is a singer, song-writer and founding member of Dinosaur Jr., Sebadoah  and The Folk Implosion.  Though known for his contribution to the "low fi" scene of the 80's and 90's, Lou has his roots in hardcore, punk and even the folk/country superstar Glen Campbell.     After a  20+ year break, The Folk Implosion (Lou Barlow and John Davis)  have released two new songs that without a doubt retain the pop/experimental beauty the duo achieved consistently in the past. Lou tells us what sparked the reunion.    In this episode Lou also shares why he felt he should be worrying about his worrying, how a  couple of self help books got him through a challenging time and even motivated him to make a handful of holiday specials.  Joe and Lou talk hardcore,  crossover metal and most importantly,  Lou tells us why he's a 7seconds snob.  Joe and Lou share a couple tour stories and we hear the new Folk Implosion tunes. https://thefolkimplosion.bandcamp.com/album/feel-it-if-you-feel-it-2http://www.loobiecore.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Etta Friedman and Allegra Weingarten are collectively the singers, songwriters and guitarists for Momma. Their new record Household Name  (out July 1st on Polyvinyl Records) is not only a beautifully riff heavy nod to their 90's influences, its a thoughtful, personal and  dynamic listen from start to finish.  In this episode Etta and Allegra discuss their recording  process and why self control is key when you have an unlimited amount of time in the studio.  They share their point of view on 90's music, culture and why femme people playing guitar has transcended to the present.   Joe, Etta and Allegra dig into the production ideas on Household Name ,  what they love about touring and the power of the pre-chorus.  We hear two rockers from Household Name. https://polyvinylrecords.com/product/household_namehttps://www.mommaband.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Σtella is a painter, singer and songwriter from Athens, Greece. Her Sub Pop debut, Up and Away is a lush, vintage pop odyssey that both adheres to traditional Greek sounds and explores current indie textures. In this episode,  Σtella shares how her relationship with music ultimately helped her overcome shyness and why Greek melody has a grounding effect.  We learn how producer Tom Calvert (aka Redinho) and Σtella teamed up and why their common influences made for an effortless working relationship.  Σtella gives us the story behind the cover art and we hear a couple tunes from Up and Away.https://stellawithasigma.com/https://stellawithasigma.bandcamp.com/album/the-breakhttps://www.subpop.com/artists/stella Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Charity Rose Thielen is a founding member, vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter for The Head and the Heart.  Their latest record, Every Shade of Blue  is out now and the band is preparing for an extensive North American tour.  Joe caught up with Charity between rehearsals in Nashville. In this episode, Joe and Charity discuss the multi-producer process of making Every Shade of Blue , what sort of freedoms it provided and how it fell in line with the bands desire to go back to a more internal collaboration.  Charity tells us why she appreciated the universal break most musicians took and how that contributes to her appreciation of touring and performing again.  She also shares her personal songwriting process, the influence of drums in her writing and the reality of living with someone who is both her partner in life and in her band.  We hear a couple songs from Every Shade of Blue. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Torquil Campbell is a founding member, singer, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter for the band Stars. He is also an actor, a play-write and podcaster.  Stars are getting ready to hit the road in support of their newest release From Capelton Hill (out May 27th on Last Gang Records/MNRK).  Torquil shares the story behind the title of the record, his historic relationship with North Hatley and why it's his only real sense of home.  Joe and Torquil discuss the sentiment that carries the record and how he and Amy Millan (singer/guitarist) are evolving towards more of a first person perspective in their lyrics.  He also catches us up on the plethora of projects he's been involved in in the last couple of years,  the problems of trying too hard and he shares a golden piece of song writing advice from his father in law.  Of course,  hear a couple tunes from From Capelton Hill .https://starsband.bandcamp.com/https://shop.lastgang.com/blogs/news/stars-share-new-single-capelton-hill-expand-tour-dates Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Spencer Moody is a poet, visual artist,  songwriter and vocalist for the The Murder City Devils, Triumph Of Lethargy Skinned Alive To Death and more recently,  M.Krebs.  In this episode Spencer catches us up on his new life on The Big Island and how being a stranger in a strange land has influenced his work.  Joe and Spencer discuss the process and inspiration behind both the M.krebs record AND his newest project with Joe Jack Talcum, a split LP on This and That Tapes. We hear a couple tunes from M.Krebs and end with a very special story about Joe and Spencers friend, the late great Sam Jayne. https://mkrebs.bandcamp.com/releaseshttps://thisandthattapes.com/releases/spencer-moody-joe-jack-talcum-splithttp://jacktalcum.com/index.phpSponsored by https://www.izotope.com Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Laura Veirs is a visual artist, singer and songwriter from Portland, Oregon.  On her newest record Found Light, (out July 8th on Raven Marching Band Records),  she addresses not only the loss of a spouse and working partner to divorce,  but the hardship of breaking away from the intermeshed identity that is the product of a longterm relationship.  In this episode Laura shares her experience of recording alone for the first time, what did and didn't work and why working with a new production partner proved to be a gratifying and liberating step in her career.  Joe and Laura discuss the process of making Found Light, why she's choosing to tour solo and we hear a couple tunes. https://www.lauraveirs.com/https://lauraveirs.bandcamp.com/album/found-light Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Andy Butler is a DJ, producer, songwriter and founding member of Hercules and Love Affair.  After a five year break,  Hercules and Love Affairs new record In Amber  brings long time collaborator and co-producer ANOHNI back into the fold, along with english drummer Budgie and singer Elin Eythordsdottir. In Amber  is a dark, jagged and heavy journey that questions faith,  false narratives assigned by social and religious constructs and ultimately celebrates perseverance and individual strength.  In this episode Andy catches us up on his projects over the last few years, how Black Metal plays a role on In  Amber and he shares the process of making a multi-personnel, multi-genre influenced record.  Joe and Andy discuss the message and sonics extremities on In Amber,  why it's both a rejection of religion and a search for the spiritual, and how it addresses the disconnection to nature.  We also hear how Budgie changed the sonic nature of In Amber  and why Andy is going back to touring with a larger band. We hear two songs from In Amber.https://www.skintentertainment.com/artist/hercules-love-affair/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Jason McGerr is a producer, song-writer and the drummer for Death Cab For Cutie. In this episode drummer pals Joe and Jason discuss Asphalt Meadows, the newest record from DCFC since 2018. Jason shares the extraordinary collective process in making the new record, why it was so satisfying and whats behind the ferocity of Roman Candles, the first single.  Of course Joe and Jason dig into drums,  drum fitness on tour and why Jason is obsessed with making odd times feel straight.  We also learn why his nick name is "CJ" on tour. We hear a couple of Joes favorite DCFC songs. https://www.deathcabforcutie.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Jessica Boudreaux is a songwriter, guitarist and producer from Portland, Oregon. Though best known for her band Summer Cannibals, Jessica has recently released a solo EP entitled I Think My Heart Loves To Break that she self produced over the past two years, in which she not only endured an involuntary break in touring, she was also diagnosed with breast cancer.  In this episode, Joe and Jessica discuss her response to her diagnosis, the massive change it brought to her life and how she kept herself from being lost in the illness.   She shares how her perspective on touring has changed,  how making the new record served as a life raft and why making a "pop"  record has always been an interesting challenge to her.  We hear a couple tunes from I Think My Heart Loves To Break, out now.https://jessicaboudreaux.bandcamp.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

We would like to welcome Zach Blair and his newest podcast ANTI-HEROES to the Ruinous Media Network!!!!! Anti-Heroes is a podcast about guitar players that aren't on the covers of the guitar magazines but our host, Zach Blair thinks they should be.  Each episode we'll have discussions with players about their motivations, intentions and, best of all, their gear.  We'll talk about their careers and how they express themselves in the constantly changing world of guitar music. Zach Blair is lifelong guitar obsessive with a career spanning almost thirty years. From his early days in Hagfish that he started with his brother on to the world renowned shock rock musical theater that is GWAR to currently recording and touring in Chicago's Rise Against for the last 15 years.  Zach is still searching when it's comes to guitar playing and always will be.  Maybe he'll find some answers right here on Anti-Heroes.Anti-Heros is proudly sponsored by Jim Dunlop and MXR pedals.https://www.jimdunlop.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Nabil Ayers is a writer, musician and the US President of the Beggars Group. He is also the son of musician Roy Ayers. His search for connection with his biological father is the subject of his new book,  My Life In The Sunshine.  This book is also a biographical journey of Nabil's musical life.     In this episode Nabil recounts what drove him to pursue his extended family and why he wanted to share this experience in a book.  Joe and Nabil discuss the uniqueness of he and his fathers relationship,  how writing replaced drumming and why his move from New York City to Salt Lake City as a kid was a great experience.   We also learn how Nabil's love for and involvement in music throughout his life has proved to be the building blocks for his position at Beggars Group. Nabil shares a tour story that involves A LOT of pot and the power of "knowing a guy" and we hear a tune from his uncle and musical guru,  Alan Braufman, https://www.nabilayers.com/https://alanbraufman.bandcamp.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Carre' Callaway-aka Queen Kwong- is a musician, song-writer and podcaster. Like most musicians in the last couple years, Carre' has had a challenging time maneuvering the sudden change in her vocation, but her situation is different. On top of the touring limitations, Carre' was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and two months later, her husband left her. What did she do?....... Naturally, made a record. The newest Queen Kwong record, Couples Only  isn't your typical "divorce record" of reflective poetry, but rather a fiercely raw and emotional look at a great loss and a future recovered. In this episode, Carre' and Joe discuss how she navigated these waters, she shares the improvisational process she uses to make records and we hear why Couples Only has an unlikely pop song on its track listing. Carre' also tells us a wild story from her days opening for Nine Inch Nails and we here a couple tunes. https://www.queenkwong.com/ https://sonicritualrecordings.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

This week Joe talks with Shaun Fleming-aka Diane Coffee.  Shaun is a singer, song writer and multi-instrumentalist based in Southern California.  His 4th record, With People (out now on Polyvinyl Records) is a personal reach into the past and a closer, sometimes darker look at the people and experiences that have made him who he is now.  In this episode,  Shaun shares what motivated him to look back, why he sometimes masks painful memories with uplifting melody,  and why this record felt more therapeutic than his previous efforts.  Joe and Shaun discuss the process of making With People  with his former bandmate Jonathan Rado  (Foxygen) and long time collaborator Joe Lefitz and how the power of their shorthand was a key ingredient in the production.  We also learn that there just might be a vaccine for Demoitis and we hear a couple tunes. http://www.dianecoffee.com/https://www.polyvinylrecords.com/artist/diane_coffee Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Pete Chramiec is a founding member and guitarist for the pivotal hardcore band Verbal Assault.  After a 20 year break, Verbal Assault are playing again, with shows booked on both coasts in 2022 and throughout 2023. In this episode, longtime pals Joe and Pete discuss what is was like for Pete to get back rock n roll shape , what spawned the reunion and why the shows are so special to him.  They also talk Joe's 4th favorite subject, "crossover", how VA's lyrics have come home to roost and Pete tells us how Dave Grohl changed the trajectory of his music career with a single phone call.  They play a  few tunes and Pete makes Joe laugh a lot.https://atomicactionrecords.bandcamp.com/album/trialhttps://verbalassault.com/https://www.bicyclehomebuilding.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Sara Lund is a drummer, drum teacher and the innovative percussive force behind the band Unwound.  After a 20+ year break, Unwound is back and already have a string of sold out shows starting in early 2023.  In this episode Sara shares the complicated and tragic story of the band falling apart and the difficult decision to start up again without founding member and friend Vern Rumsey.  She also explains that the reunion is a celebration of Vern and his contribution to the music and why Jarred Warren is helping them get back on their rock n roll feet again.  Joe and Sara discuss how she went from touring musician to drum instructor, her teaching technique and their views on improvisation.  Joe shares a couple stories from his days as Unwound's "Brodie" and we hear a couple tunes.                  THIS EPISODE IS DEDICATED TO THE GREAT VERN RUMSEY Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Julia Kugel is the singer/guitarist and founding member of The Coathangers.  She will release her first full length solo record , Derealization  on September 30 with Suicide Squeeze Records under the moniker Julia, Julia.  In this episode Joe and Julia discuss why "giving in" is not "giving up" and how her idea of acceptance shaped the record.  Julia also tells us how she dealt with and recovered from losing her voice, why she wanted to sing quietly, and what the motivation was for truly making a record on her own.  Julia shares her fantastic idea to perform the new record live and she hips us to the coolest festival in Long Beach, Happy  Sundays (August 28th).  We hear a few tunes from the new record and Joe threatens to join with Julia, Julia when she plays Seattle. https://suicidesqueeze.net/2022/07/julia-kugel-of-the-coathangers-announces-debut-solo-lp-derealization-under-new-moniker-julia-julia/https://happysundaysfest.com/https://hearjuliajulia.bandcamp.com/album/derealization Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Eva Walker is a founding member, guitarist and singer for Seattle based The Black Tones. With one full length record (Cobain and Cornbread) and a Sub Pop single under their belts, The Black Tones are embarking on their first North American tour this fall.   In this episode, Eva shares her experience working with both Jack Endino and Don Farwell,  the importance of a groove and the role trust plays in their writing and performance.  We learn why Eva and Cedric share a free form of expression and how the root of that free spirit lies in both family and the story of a lifelong educator and a bank robber.  The two Seattleites discuss their experiences as transplants and how they were both psyched to be a part of the Sub Pop family.  Eva hips us to some new bands and we hear a couple tunes.  Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Cody Votolato is a guitarist, singer and founding member of JR SLAYER.  He has spent the better part of his music career touring and writing with bands The Blood Brothers, Jaguar Love, Head Wound City and Telekinesis.  Now,  he has focused and boiled down his artistic output to JR SLAYER, with the new record Not Rotten out September 9 on Memory Music.In this episode, Cody shares his perspective on writing Not Rotten  and the process of recording with Will Yip at Studio 4.  Joe brings up Cody's unique position as someone who has toured since his early teens, how he feels about it now and what may replace it.  The two reminisce on the Built In Sun record and we hear a couple tunes from Not Rotten. https://jrslayer.bandcamp.com/https://www.memory-music.net/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Abraxas is a psych/rock/tropicalia duo of Uruguayan-born/UK-based Carolina Faruolo (ex-Los Bitchos) and Danny Lee Blackwell (Night Beats). They’re releasing their debut LP Monte Carlo on October 28 on Seattle-based label Suicide Squeeze.  In this episode Joe catches up with Danny on the road in France with his band Night Beats and Carolina at her home in Manchester.   Danny and Carolina share the process of making the Monte Carlo,  and how ease and telepathy translated directly to the final recording.  They also discuss how the diverse mixture of influences, the name Abraxas and record title Monte Carlo melded over long distances to make a humid, lush and dreamy listening experience.  We hear how the video functioned as their first gig and we hear a couple brand new tunes. https://abraxasintl.bandcamp.com/album/monte-carlohttps://suicidesqueeze.net/2022/09/abraxas-release-new-single-video-manana/https://suicidesqueeze.net/https://lnk.to/AMC  Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Randy Randall is the guitarist, co-producer and founding member of No Age. Their 3rd record on Drag City,  People Helping People,  will be released September 16th  with a full North American tour to follow.   In this episode, Randy shares the head space he and Dean were in at the beginning of the recording and why they were itching to get weird. We hear why they feel they are in a perfect position to do whatever they want and how operating  on the notion that "everything is valid" contributed to the sonic architecture of the record.  Randy also tells us why he felt like Scotty Pippen playing with Bob Mould and he hips us to meaning behind Snares Like A Haircut , We hear a couple tunes and Randy offers up the stems from People Helping People.https://www.dragcity.com/products/people-helping-peoplehttps://noage.bandcamp.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Harper Simon is a singer, songwriter, producer and journalist. His most recent effort is an album and accompanying art book entitled Meditations on Crime. . The release is a vast and collaborative multimedia project that incorporates  an eclectic collection of contributors including writers, visual artists and of course, musicians . It is indeed a full circle meditation on crime, expressed through song, images and word.  In this episode Joe and Harper discuss the genesis of the project and how his relationship to politics motivated him to choose crime as the subject. Joe and Harper talk about the  process of selecting contributors and the importance of cohesion in something this large. Harper shares his  experience recording with long time friend Hal Willner, his plans to play live and we hear a couple tuneshttps://youtube.com/user/HarperSimonMusic Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Sam Quartin is the singer, lyricist and founding member of The Bobby Lee's.  Their newest record and Ipecac Recordings debut Bellevue  will hit the streets October 7th. Bellevue is a ferocious follow up to the well received Skin Suit  and an intense journey of manic metamorphosis that will leave you demanding to see them live.  In this episode, Joe catches up with Sam from New York city, where she's in her car,  parked illegally.  We get Sams thoughts on touring after a busy year on the road,  how she feels about Hollywood culture from an actors point of view and she tells us the origin of the title Bellevue.  She also shares The Bobby Lee's songwriting process and her experience working with Vance Powell.  We  hear how the band will finish out the year play a couple rip roarin numbers. https://www.thebobbylees.com/https://thebobbylees.bandcamp.com/https://www.ipecac.com/artists/thebobbylees Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

LOU REED - WORDS & MUSIC, MAY 1965 This Light In The Attic podcast is a companion piece to Words and Music, May 1965, an album of previously unreleased songs recorded by a young Lou Reed with future Velvet Underground bandmate, John Cale. It includes first known recordings of such iconic songs as "I'm Waiting for the Man" and "Heroin." These recordings will be released to the public for the first time on Light in the Attic Records.Our host, Tunde Adebimpe sits down with Matt Sullivan (co-owner and founder of Light in the Attic Records) and Lou Reed archivists Jason Stern and Don Fleming to get their insights into how the tape was discovered and how the songs were recorded by Cale and Reed in the spring of 1965.   Listen along with Matt, Don and Jason as they share their appreciation and knowledge of these extraordinary recordings. Produced by Light in the Attic, Ruinous Media and Dann Gallucci. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Gustav Ejstes is the singer, multi-instrumentalist and founding member of Dungen. After a six year break, Dungen has released En Är För Mycket och Tusen Aldrig Nog (One is Too Much and a Thousand is Never Enough) on Mexican Summer. In this episode Gustav explains  the process of working with producer/collaborator Mattias Glavå, and the role Mitch Mitchell, Public Enemy and Jungle play on the album. He shares his touring plans and we hear a couple tunes. http://www.dungen-music.com/https://www.mexicansummer.com/artist/dungen/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.   visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories