(don't) quit your day job by Paul Neil

In this episode, we speak with Cleveland based concert photographer Joe Kleon about his career as a radio DJ/personality which morphed into taking pictures of huge rock stars. Plus, social media, AI, and Joe Jonas lip syncing.

In this episode, we speak with Allegedly Records band Paths 2 Glory about signing with a label, the perils of social media, the definition of successful shows, and are there too many bands? Plus, the importance of color, band evolution, and veto powers.

In this episode, we speak with old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar) about the top 10 Hair Metal Guitarists and the Top 10 Hair Metal songs. As chosen by dumb resources.

In this episode, we speak with the UK based solo musician Adrien Rodes (Furii) about playing with other people versus writing own music, playing with The Spratleys and Cardiacs, trying not to be self conscious, and your relationship with your music versus how other people connect to it. Plus, using half broken sounds, self censorship, and success as measured by creating music.

In this episode, we speak with Baltimore based hardcore band Trash Diva about the Baltimore scene, their upcoming vinyl release on DCxPC Live, audience interaction, and the John Waters connection. Plus, what is hardcore, learning to be a vocalist, and playing in a Mexican restaurant.

In this episode, we speak with old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar) about playing with bands who aren’t nice, the importance of a healthy ego, punk rock venues, and audiences in Germany. Plus, naked in the dressing room, guitar player competition, and drunk playing.

In this episode, we chat with Radar Waves while they were on tour in Germany in early March 2026. It seems like they had a good time. Plus a surprise visit from Treetop (Doping the Void).

In this episode, we chat with Mission Impossible villain Charlie Thornton (Radar Waves) about his preparation as he embarks on his first ever shows in Germany. Plus, important German phrases and the Radar Waves fan base in Europe.

In this episode, we speak with old pal Joerg Frauendiener of Doping the Void about German punk, Scandinavian rock bands, choosing the bass over the flute, and the difference between touring in the USA versus Europe. Plus, the Black Forest and love of cuckoo clocks.

In this episode, we speak with Steve "Lips" Kudlow of Anvil about 30 years into a heavy metal career, being the subject of a successful documentary, getting stuck with terrible record deals, and the need for perseverance. Plus, Lemmy in a hot air balloon, being peers with other legendary rock stars, and playing to your strengths.

In this episode, we speak with Steve Berlin of Los Lobos and many many other projects about, punk and blues in early eighties LA, the re-release of Pigus, Drunkus, Maximus, his roles as a producer and as a musician, and his huge number of credits as producer including Tragically Hip. Plus, overflowing toilets, Hello I love You is the worst song ever, and meeting Ray Manzarek.

In this episode, we speak with Josh of Teeth Out about their new EP called Here We Go,  the different musical scenes in Canada, the delicate balancing of family and punk rock, and utilizing the internet as a means of making connections. Plus, the viability of putting out vinyl, and covering Mazzy Star.

In this episode, we speak with old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar) about gearing up for an eventful 2026, remembering the 80's band Nitro, potential for a Little Caesar tour in 2026, and being supportive of friends, including Radar Waves. Plus, stress and the relaxation of playing guitar.

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Tammy Wallace (Stereo Scandal, Creedmoors, Saturn Rise) defends the incredibly generic hair farmers Slaughter. *EDITED to remove the song*

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Tim Emanuel (The Danzas) defends the band that released a (bad) song that everyone knows from movies; Yello. We listen to the song La Habanera and disagree about what "good" means. *EDITED to remove the song*

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Pete Magliocco (Tromboner) defends the utterly indefensible; 3rd wave ska. We listen to the song 241 by Reel Big Fish and agree that it is bad but perhaps enjoyable. Or just bad. *EDITED to remove the song*

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Bree Myers (Allegedly Records, PA And Find Out) defends the most repetitive (and bad) music in the world, Merengue. We listen to the song La Vaca by Mala Fe and talk about enjoying music in certain contexts. *EDITED to remove the song*

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Mike Jacobs (On The Cinder) defends the worst that Buffalo, NY has to offer. We listen to the song Amigone by The Goo Goo Dolls and talk about soulless corporate rock. *EDITED to remove the song*

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Rachel Blume defends the worst of her pop-punk childhood; Brand New. We listen to the song Seventy Times 7 and talk about pointless defiance and classic rock. *EDITED to remove the song*

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, AJ Blume defends the worst popular music; modern country. We listen to the Dierks Bentley song I Hold On and talk about pick-up trucks, and other clichés. *EDITED to remove the song*

In this episode, we speak with old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar) about the future of music and art in the face of the AI onslaught. Why are legitimate musicians supporting the use of AI in the creative process?

In this episode, we chat with frenemy Sir Richard Dean Girt III of The Sneaky Heat Missiles about all things Devo. Plus, listening to your older work, success via networking, and can you be a popular band without people liking your music?

In this episode, we chat with Connor Frost, the most positive force in music today about the biggest question for all musicians; should everyone create and release music? Plus, encouraging people to create music, finding happiness in creation, and is it possible to gatekeep ourselves?

In this episode, we chat with Steve Wynn, mastermind of the long running band The Dream Syndicate about the paisley underground scene, the early eighties LA scene, success of bands like The Bangles and REM, quitting the day job and dropping out of school, and the reissue of The Medicine Show. Plus, the importance of the audience, how bands evolve, and working with producer Sandy Pearlman.

In this episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar) talks about the golden age of sitcom theme songs, making a living creating music for other industries, and is there room to jump on the bandwagon? Plus, the necessary evil of social media, and getting name dropped in Guitar World magazine.

In this episode, we chat with John Heintz, mastermind of the star-studded project The Big Ol' Nasty Getdown about capturing live performances in the studio, organizing high profile musicians, recording at George Clinton’s studio, and the art of listening to other musicians. Plus, being a producer versus being a musician, and pulling joy from production and performance.

In this episode, we chat with drummer Mordecai Girt of The Sneaky Heat Missiles and Subarctic Beach Party about growth as a musician, leaving space for other band members, playing in multiple bands, the touring experience, and the importance of playing outside of your hometown. Plus, “Dad” versus “Rick”, and are drummers musicians?

In this episode, we chat with frenemy Sir Richard Dean Girt III of The Sneaky Heat Missiles about what appear to be the necessary evils of social media when involved with an artistic undertaking. But can art and music truly coexist with the inherent negativity of social media? Plus, does anyone read newsletters?

In this episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar) talks about getting older as a guitar player, Yngwie playing the blues, and The Police fighting over songwriting royalties. Plus reviews of hair metal albums from 1984 and 1986.

In this episode, we chat with Eddie Trizzino of Pittsburgh punk band Subarctic Beach Party about clever band names, being the primary songwriter in a band, a day job in print media and journalism, and using complicated words in songs. Plus, writing songs in the wrong key, strategies for getting heard, and playing the right number of shows.

In this episode, we chat with LA based musician Steven Roback of Rain Parade about Influences and the crossover of 80's audiences, signing to Enigma Records, the development of the paisley underground scene and writing songs that resonate with people. Plus, Measuring success as an influential band, and performing on English tv.

In this episode, we chat with mortal enemy Charlie Thornton (Radar Waves) about playing shows with bigger bands, the impact and hard work of creating momentum, and who wants to be a content creator?

In this episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar,The Cruzados) talks about rock star backstage access wars, ghost players on famous hit songs, YouTube Guitar influencers and fake guitar playing, and the possibility of more financial success by being more cutthroat.

In this episode, we chat with frenemy Sir Richard Dean Girt III of The Sneaky Heat Missiles about the experience of playing shows in Germany, trying a variety of music related tasks to gain experience, creating stories from the experiences, competition between bands, and Importance of good communication. Plus Diss Tracks and launching a You Tube show.

In this episode, we have a silly chat with Rebel Chef Radio and her husband AJ wherein we play word association between food and band names. Yes, Steely Dan is a potato.

In this episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar,The Cruzados) talks about Little Caesar performing in Nashville, how being sick on the road gets old quickly, the competition mindset, and the history of the Sunset Strip scene. Plus, the Forest Gump of rock, Mark's old high school band, and the ups and downs of playing live.

In this special episode, Josh of Teeth Out tells the story of how his punk rock band won the opportunity to open for legendary Canadian pop-rockers Honeymoon Suite.

In this episode, legendary rock guitarist Loren Molinare (Slamdinistas, Little Caesar, The Dogs) talks about the new Slamdinistas album (Wild and Restless), creating a new punk rock band from the bottom up, day job retirement, the importance of the arts, and getting help from David Lee Roth. Plus, the problem of earplugs, disco basslines, and drinking with Bon Scott.

In this episode, Milwaukee based drummer Brian Dendy talks about the difference between the drum kit and percussion, performing as the live drummer for Immortal Girlfriend, R&B/Soul drumming, and the importance of playing in the pocket. Plus, Changing the feel of a song in a live perspective, Bun E. Carlos and the Rockford area, living and working in South Korea, and giving drum lessons.

In this episode, Milwaukee based Dark Wave band Immortal Girlfriend talk about Synth based music, doing new things with old ideas, incorporating visual ideas into the music, creating a feeling, and being creative using limitations. Plus, wrestling fans, destroying a Bass Station II, and the latest album Sojourner.

In this episode, Jesse of Last Ditch Effort talks about new EP "Twenty-25" released in February 2025, the state of education in the USA, and we take a deep dive into the topic of politics in music. Plus, do we romanticize the Fat Wreck and Epitaph era of punk, and gatekeeping in the punk scene.

In this episode, Josh of Teeth Out talks about the music scene in Prince Edward Island, releasing music before playing shows, putting together a band as an older musician, new EP "Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is", and collaborating with musicians all over the world. Plus, High End Denim Records, being too self critical, and middle aged punk rock dads.

In this episode, Paul Christiansen of Pathos and Logos talks about the intersection of spirituality, magic and music, the new ep Gospel coming out June 2025, being an optimist, the power of art and music, and letting the audience determine what the music means. Plus, dealing with the “punisher”, moving from an instrumental to vocal band, and how to write authentic Meshugga riffs.

In this episode, old palMark Tremalgia (Little Caesar,The Cruzados) talks about interacting with Yngwie, set time sabotage, Bob Seger versus The Dogs, and “Close Out” bands in LA. Plus, sports versus music, playing basketball with Blossom, and creating songs using the Nashville Numbers system.

In this episode,Nika & AlexanderofChase the Comettalk about the challenges of genre mixing, making an effort to be in nature while on tour, opening for CKY and Yngwie, and having a successful career in Russia and then starting over in the USA. Plus, the challenges of being from Russia, developing skill sets to be self reliant, and dealing with social media.

In this episode, Mitch McCallum of Regal Foul talks about their new release Eyes and whether it is 2 songs or the same song twice, punk rock and the scene in Alberta, Canada, love for the Tragically Hip, and defining success while having a day job. Plus, getting good sounding recordings, finding the right people to work with, and figuring out how to get your music in front of people.

In this episode, Matt Weiss of Off Guard talks about the pros and cons of NYC, living and performing with OCD, the new EP called Complex Machines, being classically trained vocalists in a rock band, and being stuck in genre boxes. Plus, striking the balance between making money and making music, being an artist first, making high quality videos, and release strategies for new music.

In this episode, Tim Nave talks about his newest release Watering Dead Plants, the creation of art, lucid dreams and concept albums, the pursuit of success and what that might entail, and the fear of success. Plus, the importance of the right instrument, the crappy music subreddit, content versus art, and becoming viral famous.

In this first episode of 2025, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about the fulfillment of teaching guitar, guitar tabulature as a hinderance to learning, legacy artists playing stadium shows, the importance of nostalgia in live music, and the continued relevancy of David Lee Roth. Plus, the DLR Band almost reunion, and jamming with Dug Pinnick.

In this episode, Will West of Paperback Tragedy talks about the Baltimore scene, the importance of the song over visuals, how to go viral by falling down steps, defining success as you get older, Allegedly Records, and the value of Fest for a smaller bands. Plus, the Will West Pyramid Scheme, and Will's new solo album Dragon.

In this episode, Pharoah Barrett of Little Caesar talks about being an Emmy Award winning visual effects artist in Hollywood for his day job, the rise and fall of The Four Horsemen in the 90's, and the realities of touring and making money as a band. Plus, Gain of Funktion, his connection to The Price Is Right, social media, and hanging with Terry Crews

In this episode, Jonathan Kent of Ohio based This Is Just A Record Label talks about the vibrancy of the Youngstown OH scene, the shared scene between Pittsburgh and Youngstown, the value of mixed genre shows, Ramones-core style bands, and This Is Just A Record Label. Plus, physical formats, his new That Was The 80’s compilation, and the You Got Dysentery podcast.

In this episode, Ben Huggins of long time band Galactic Cowboys talks about the realities of being signed and then dropped by a major label, pressure to fit into genres or styles, working with Sam Taylor, and running a successful kickstarter campaign to raise money for a new album. Plus, the potential for alienating audiences, and playing wiffle ball in the studio.

In this special Election Day episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about separating art from artist, the impact of celebrities on elections, working for RotoSound Strings, and reasons to quit a band. Plus, trying out for Love/Hate and the Mr. Crowley solo.

In this episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) fresh off of the Little Caesar UK tour talks about touring with Tyketto, 6 degrees of band member separation, the pressure of not being the headliner, and more stories of gear mishaps. Plus, visiting Mark's hometown of Chester CT and the introduction of keyboards to Van Halen.

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Tammy Wallace (Stereo Scandal, Creedmoors, Saturn Rise) defends the incredibly popular Chappell Roan. We listen to the song Hot To Go and learn the pitfalls of singing with your car windows down.

In this episode, we speak with Nick McGraw, owner of Buzzbin, a venue located in Akron, OH about everything you ever wanted to know about owning and running a small live music venue. Plus, the importance of community, working full time, the pushback when hosting a Christian group, and thumb wrestling.

In this episode, we speak with Brian McGee of much loved Pittsburgh band The Danzas about the need for bossiness, musical outlets, the three front persons of The Danzas, the importance of a bass guitar, and finding a stopping point for a band. Plus, measuring success, moving to NYC to be part of the music industry, barriers to entry, and reaching an audience.

Today on special episode 222, we speak with Richard Dean Girt III (The Sneaky Heat Missiles) and discuss the impact of religion on music scenes and how gatekeepers can hinder community. This episode was inspired by Buzzbin, a small music venue in Ohio.

In this episode, we talk with Joshua Lastine (Lastine Entertainment Law) about when should an artist contact a lawyer, copywrite protection, the impact of content creation and social media, the value of music, the importance of networking, and arguing about boobs and butts on television. Plus, being star struck, and moving Kevin Feige's office materials.

In this episode, we talk with Mario Rivera (Left Unsaid, Nights Like Thieves, Ikana) about creating and releasing a documentary about the rise and fall of Albuquerque, NM local heroes Left Unsaid. Plus, getting back together, releasing new music, starting over after being in a successful band, being at the threshold of mainstream success, video production as day job, and the impact of nostalgia.

In this episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about the upcoming Little Caesar Tour of the UK, playing to the recording versus improvisation, the importance of listening in a band setting, YouTube Guitarists, and the possibility of writing a hit song. Plus, chicken legs, Sammy versus DLR, getting sick of songs, and the best Beatle.

In this episode, we talk with Welsh musician Jessica Ball (MWWB) about her new band EYE, Wrexham and Ryan Reynolds impact on city and scene, using a common word as a band name, the challenges of creating music in different genres, the importance of like-minded band members, and difficulties in starting a new project. Plus, naming songs and choosing singles, the mystery of creating a track listing, and creating songs with the vocal performance in mind.

In this episode, we talk with celebrated Irish musician Pierce Turner about being called a musical legend, breaking musical ground in the 80's, being fussy about the right things, separating rock star from musician, the difficulty in getting people to hear your songs, and inspiring listeners. Plus, love of performance, choosing instruments based on boredom, and doing shows in people's homes.

In this episode, old friend Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about learning how to be a guitar teacher, the impact of YouTube guitar players, the over-the-top ethos and giant egos of late 80's Hollywood, and being on a scene bandwagon. Plus, the coolness of guitar shredding (or lack thereof), and the importance of rock music today.

In this episode, we talk with John Helps of the amazing instrumental post-rock band MAYBESHEWILL about getting clearance for samples (or not), musical style evolution through eras of music, being part of a scene, the limitations and individuality of instrumental music, and the trials and tribulations of being a tour manager. Plus, Robert Smith (The Cure) being responsible for getting the band back together, the pursuit of rock stardom vs the buzz of performance. and the importance of sequencing an album.

In this episode, we talk with rad accordion maestro Eric McMyermick of the Kentucky based band Caravan Discordia about the trials of selling oneself as an accordion player, getting shows on interesting bills, art and performance, boredom as a motivator, and the lack of frame of reference for accordion players. Plus, playing outside of one's comfort zone, Kentucky as an influence, vocals as an instrument, and making a living as an independent musician.

In this episode, old friend Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) goes in deep on musical conspiracy theories, ancient aliens, haunted houses, and how to deal with gear gremlins while on tour. Plus, upcoming Little Caesar shows in the USA, and performing on the Michael Des Barres live from Viper Room recording.

In this episode, we talk with Ryan Waltz of the Pennsylvania based band Horrorwood Ending about getting pigeonholed by song topics, the practical impact of having a long running band, taking a long hiatus due to real life intervening, valuing recording over live performance, and measures of success. Plus, the correct pronunciation of Lancaster, PA, the importance of hope, self evaluation of song writing, and handling the band financials responsibly.

Today on You Listen to Hot Garbage, Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) defends the worst era of ZZ Top. Why are these songs so popular?

In this episode, we talk with Jon Cattivera of the long running emo/indie rock band Time Spent Driving about the new album Estrangers, differences between the various time periods of the band, the evolution of song writing topics, the impact of the "emo" genre tag, success as a younger band driving motivation, and being honest about attempting to achieve mainstream success. Plus, getting on movie and video game soundtracks, mature sounding music, physical copy, profanity in music, and touring while considering every day life.

In this episode, we talk with Sarah Patricia of the leftist, bootstomping, metalpunk band Antagonizör about the Florida scene, having a release on vinyl, the importance of banter in a live performance, keeping work and art life separate, and the stress of trying to be a professional musician. Plus, how to stand out as a band, music as stress relief and fun, eating insects, and measures of success.

In this episode, old friend Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about playing Freebird unironically, the old Gazzarri's on Sunset Strip, playing with Butch Walker, the pressure to use certain brands of gear, and separating art from the artist. Plus, playing a show with Robben Ford, the mythical Dumble amp, and the skill of listening to other musicians while playing.

In this episode, we talk with Mike Schulte of The Pork Tornadoes and The Confused Breakfast podcast about living in small town Iowa, the importance of support systems, the dream of making it big, The Pork Tornadoes cover band success, and is selling out negative or does it just mean success. Plus, rapping drummers, playing Joe Biden's primary party, podcasts about movies, social media including Tik Tok, and supporting your friends. You can check out Mike's projects at the following locations:

In this episode, we talk with Mike Jacobs of On The Cinder about what the Buffalo Bills team means to the area, the upcoming release Heavy Handed, making videos, the ideal release schedule, how many songs is too many on a release, and maturing as a band. Plus, writing a record with a common theme, touring, dividing up vocal responsibilities, winter in Buffalo, and some obligatory T. Swift commentary. You can check out On The Cinder at the following locations:

In this episode, we talk with Vinny Marone of Loud Love and Jersey Calling about people from different parts of New Jersey, the connection between the Philly and Jersey scenes, releasing songs with stars like Lisa Loeb and Billy Sheehan, and the difficulty of being a band that moves around in genres. Plus, is the album format still desirable, failing and getting better, joining an established band, writing hooks, and the importance of stories.

In this episode, we talk with Chris Sichok of Pittsburgh band Right On Warriors about starting a new "punk" band with different elements and influences, life getting in the way, recording and getting music in front of people, tempering rock star aspirations, and the dangers of being too eclectic to retain specific audiences. Plus, what makes sense for number of songs, is physical copy/vinyl still worthwhile, and playing the right number of shows in an area.

In this episode, old friend Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about his former baseball career, being healthy, eating well, the impact of alcohol on performance, being with sober band members on tour, and the importance of good bandmates. Plus, musical hot takes and hanging out with Frank and Dweezil Zappa.

In this episode, we talk with Trev Allen aka The Struggling Artist about his successful The Struggling Artist Podcast, award nominations, cool things in Worcester, MA, introducing people to new music, curating guests for the show, and feelings of unworthiness. Plus the new The Struggling Artist Record Club and everything it takes to run a successful vinyl subscription service.

In this episode, we talk with Craig Hall from the space punk nerd rock band Curse Words about their new album It Was The Cursed of Times, being a DC band and the influence of the early DC scene, how to determine the right number of shows in your area, being on Allegedly Records, and the importance of the DIY ethos. Plus, the value of being on a label, the hard work of a break through, and having fun as the key component.

In this gigantic episode, old pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about looking more and more like Duane Allman, how the uniform is important for the show, especially for legacy bands, the "big break", and making a living from music. Plus, reflections on the reasons for this podcast, playing a solo in front of an arena crowd, the importance of shred, and Mark plays licks from his entire career.

In big episode 200, we walk around in Philipsburg, PA with Bree Myers (Allegedly Records), Jimmy Minarchick (Quick Eddies Swag Co.), and Charlie Thornton (Radar Waves), looking for ghosts, graveyards, and churches. We look forward to friendship and music in 2024. Thanks for listening!

In this episode, we talk to writer/producer/director John Ryan Sugimoto about the importance of environment on creativity, NYC versus LA, deriving motivations from movies when a youngster, being an inspiration to others, and defining success with happiness. Plus, forming ideas, a love for dumb people, making people feel good, and the struggle to spell his name.

In this episode, we talk to Matt and Doug from the rad Ohio band Jacknife Powerbombs about their new album Mors Certa Vita Incerta, the greater Cleveland music scene, being happy with the process of being a band and creating music, difficulties with describing the sound of the band, and getting music in front of people. Plus, gatekeeping, the fusion of band members styles, mixed band bills, and the luxury of being able to record yourself.

In this episode, our pal Steve Cee of RATH & the Wise Guys is back on the show to talk about actually quitting his day job (woah!), making video games and using other avenues of artistic expression to stand out, and structuring time to be as productive as possible. Plus, touring strategies, the importance of physical media, and the difficulty in seeing long term plans for success.

In this episode, the legend that is John Grove (Coffee With Lions) talks about the York PA scene, how to branch out into other scenes and regions, releasing A Single Second, recording new music, and figuring out the best way to release music. Plus, the official John Grove uniform, how to figure out the right number of shows to play, the requirements of social media, and the difficulty of wearing glasses during performance.

In this episode, old friend Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about faking different styles of music based on the licks you can play, when does it make sense for a band to retire, the value of new music from legacy bands, and having fun no matter what. Plus, the different joys of playing in the studio vs live, the idea that a good guitar track can save a bad song, and is John Mayer worth defending?

In this episode, Aki McCullough of Dreamwell talks about the uniqueness of being a band from the music scene in Rhode Island, what it meant for the band to sign with Prosthetic Records, the impact of being on a label, and being meticulous in the studio. Plus, van death, the nuts and bolts of touring, the importance of groove, and evolving on from being a screamo band to something more unique.

In this episode, our friend Bree Myers of Allegedly Records and Punk Around and Find Out takes us in depth through her breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery; including the importance of support systems, the difficulty in asking for help, and talking openly with friends and family. Plus, reassessing opportunities, a return to writing, arm wrestling, and a shout out to the band Treaties

In this episode, the members of the rad and unforgettable band Hans Gruber And The Die Hards talk about the tribulations of being a hard working independent band that works day jobs and tours frequently, the positives of ska, being able to explore different sounds and genres, and managing expectations while on tour. Plus, the necessary evil of social media, using atlas obscura, playing poker for a living, and wardrobe malfunctions.

In this special episode, our pal Mark Tremalgia (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) talks about late eighties LA, guitar playing in the Hollywood scene and defends the songs associated with Hair Metal.

In this special episode, Chuck Veri of iNCO FIdO defends the origins of ska, the many different ska subgenres, the truth of whether reggae or ska came first and the idea that ska did not start as a silly style of music. Plus, we play Housewife's Choice by Derrick Morgan

In this episode, we talk to our pal Mark Tremalgia aka Marky T (Little Caesar, The Cruzados) about coming back from The Cruzados European tour, the strike in Hollywood, jamming with actor Tim Russ (Star Trek, Crossroads), and the Richard Fortus versus Nuno media war. Plus, watching GnR rehearsals, the importance of a look for musicians, and a visit from Charlie Thornton.

In this special episode, our rad pal Rick Girt (The Sneaky Heat Missiles) attempts to convince us that ska is worth listening to and that Hans Gruber and the Die Hards are a ska band. We play the song My Friend Chuck and discuss.

In this episode Dave Simonich (Signs of the Swarm) talks about the evolution of the sound of the band, the importance of growth, acknowledging feedback from the fans, the importance of giving back to the scene/community, and the impact of signing with Century Media. Plus, the resurgence of deathcore, the importance of the message in a song, the impact of Spotify numbers, dealing with the terrible behavior of former members, and reminiscing about shows at 222 Ormsby.

In this episode Chris Urriola (Hollis Brown) talks about his love of bass guitar, his debut EP Illustrator, his day job as an expeditor following school in music management at Berklee, hustling in gig culture/economy, and being a stickler but still being open to ideas. Plus, the art of creating songs and fleshing out ideas with friends in the studio, being patient with developing a career in music, the realities of self managing and touring, and being the nephew of Dave Gahan. You can check out Chris at these places:

In this episode Thomas Andrew Doyle (TAD) talks about being on the vanguard of the Seattle/grunge scene in the 90's, signing to Sub Pop Records, early influences including music study at university, and subverting listener expectation. Plus, what does the artist owe the listener, the importance of listener interpretation, embracing new things, and running a small record label and recording studio.

In this episode, comedian Neil Rubenstein talks about the day to day realities of being a comedian, being on the road, the importance of trying new things, developing material, and what, if any, jokes are off limits. Plus, physical media, social media, day jobs, and performing at punk rock shows versus comedy clubs.

In this special episode, our old friend Charlie Thornton (Radar) attempts to convince us that LOCAL H is a good band and not a one hit wonder. We play the song John The Baptist Blues and discuss.

In this episode, Jason Bieler (Saigon Kick, The Baron Von Bielski Orchestra) talks about getting a nickname from Maya Rudolph's father, the old Saigon Kick days, having a hit song via fluke or accident, the freedom to move between musical genres, and becoming better as a songwriter by writing songs. Plus, not listening back to releases, writing and releasing tracks within 24 hours as an exercise, singers and shredders, release strategies for albums versus songs, physical copy, and social media.