Behind the Vinyl

In this episode, Tate chats with Marcus Nuccio and Evan Weiss, the driving forces behind the band, Pet Symmetry, about their latest album Big Symmetry, released on May 2. Since August 2023, the record label, Storm Chaser, has been releasing one album every month, but Big Symmetry stands out as the label's most significant release yet. Marcus and Evan discuss the power of self-releasing music, as owning their own label allows them to make all the decisions and maintain complete control over their music. They also reflect on the incredible freedom this gives them, from writing and recording to collaborating with friends in the industry, such as Mike from Asian Man Records, who contributed to this release. The duo opens up about the unique writing process for Big Symmetry, which took place in a cabin in Southern Illinois. Over the course of just seven days, the band wrote 17 songs and immediately tracked the drums, marking a departure from their usual, more spread-out approach to songwriting. Lyrically, the band challenged themselves to write 12 love songs, a task that proved difficult for some members, but ultimately resulted in a more refined, confident sound. Marcus and Evan also discuss the evolution of their music, explaining how the process and the music itself reflect their growth as musicians since they first started playing together in 2012. With Pet Symmetry marking their fourth LP, the band finds themselves at a point where they can confidently call themselves veterans in the indie music scene. Their newfound confidence, along with their years of experience, has led to a tight, like-minded group of musicians who know exactly what they want out of their music careers. The episode offers an inside look at the band's journey, their creative process, and how their decisions along the way has allowed them to achieve everything they ever wanted in music. Whether you're a fan of the band or new to their music, this conversation provides valuable insights into the world of independent music and the freedom that comes with owning your art.

Tate is on a roll as we edge closer to the big 2-0-0, and this week's episode brings a breezy, story-filled conversation with Andrew from the band The Wisconaut. Fresh off a surf trip with his buddies, Andrew joins the show in peak post-sesh energy to chat about everything from catching waves to catching ears with his music. The convo kicks off with Andrew's roots in Milwaukee and his unexpected journey into surfing. He shares some of his favorite trips — including a formative stint in Rockaway, New York, where he feels he truly honed his skills on the board. But it's not long before the tides turn toward music. Andrew dives into his time at Syracuse University, playing in the band Super Defense before launching his own project. He gives props to the college town for its vibrant music scene, saying it played a huge role in building his confidence and shaping his sound. From basement shows to Snapchat-style video diaries, Andrew's got stories for days. The episode also touches on early recordings, inspiration from punk legends like Henry Rollins, and the wild ride of going viral overnight thanks to a TikTok post. From dorm room dreams to real-life gigs, The Wisconaut's journey is part mystery, part manifesto, and all heart. So who are The Wisconaut, really? You'll just have to tune in to find out.

This week, Tate sits down with Jake Beital of Prize Horse for an unforgettable convo that kicks off with an instant Minnesota connection. From the Twin Cities to deep dives into the local music scene, Jake paints a vivid picture of home — and yes, he comes prepared with a stacked list of his favorite hometown restaurants. After a quick warm-up, the two dive into the heart of it: music. Jake opens up about Under Sound, the record Prize Horse dropped last year that's taken on a timeless life of its own. Even two years after recording, he's still proud of what they created — and listeners clearly agree. They also look back on their recent tour with Gleemer, calling it a huge honor, and preview what's next: dates with Superheaven, Glare, Spy, and a just-about-to-kick-off run with Soul Blind. Prize Horse is not slowing down anytime soon. Jake also shares what it's been like coming up in a close-knit local scene, the friendships that helped build the band, and what keeps that community thriving. From lyric writing and album artwork to the very first time he picked up an instrument — nothing's off the table in this wide-ranging, heartfelt interview. Whether you're a fan of the band, the scene, or just love a good story — this one's a must-listen.

n this episode, we sit down with Anthony, the creative force behind the music project "Rosevile Sucks." The name originated during his time living in Roseville, and even today, driving through the area serves as a humorous reminder of those experiences. Anthony is also part of the popular YouTube channel "Hivemind," which has broadened his horizons and introduced him to the world of football, despite his primary passion for music. Anthony shares how joining "Hivemind" was more than just a job; it was a chance to connect with like-minded musicians. The instant chemistry he found with the team has been a rewarding part of his journey, as they share a love for similar music. "Rosevile Sucks" has been making waves with new releases, including the track "If We Never Met," which dropped in January. Initially intimidated by lyric writing, Anthony has pushed himself out of his comfort zone, allowing his skills to grow. He finds inspiration in the most unexpected places—one line in his latest song even came from TikTok! Over the past two years, the project has garnered a significant following, amassing a large number of monthly listeners. Anthony is determined not to let the pressures of the music industry hold him back; instead, he wants to keep sharing his work with the world. Despite being his own harshest critic, he assures listeners that more music is on the way. At one point, Anthony considered stepping away from the project, grappling with self-doubt about whether he truly belonged in the music scene. However, he's committed to collaboration moving forward, indicating that his solo work could take a backseat as he explores new creative partnerships. Join us for an inspiring conversation about music, creativity, and the journey of self-discovery!

In this episode, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Steph Jerkova of Punitive Damage back in November. What a fantastic conversation it was! Not only is Punitive Damage an incredible band, but Steph herself is one of the most down-to-earth and engaging people you'll meet. We dove deep into the band's journey, exploring their sound, and the unique vibe that sets them apart in the hardcore punk music scene. But it wasn't just about the music—Steph brought tons of energy, humor, and insight to the table, making this episode a blast from start to finish. Whether you're already a fan of Punitive Damage or just discovering their sound, this interview offers a peek behind the curtain of one of the most exciting up-and-coming bands around. Don't miss it!

It's taken me a little while to dive back into some of the interviews I did last year, but today we're releasing something I'm really proud of — our interview with Chat Pile.  There were times over the past few months when I seriously considered walking away from this project. I was burnt out, and setting up interviews felt like a chore. But in the end, I realized this project is too important to me to let go. I've made lifelong friends in Rosie and Tate, who've dedicated countless hours to making sure it continues. I often think back to my younger self, feeling lost and unsure of where my life was headed. Then I found the punk community — and it gave me purpose. For the first time in a long time, I was excited about something: the shows I attended, the people I met, and the sense of belonging. Starting this podcast in the first month of the pandemic allowed me to connect with bands I'd been listening to for years. Even though there were times when I didn't make the best decisions, one thing I'm sure of is that this project is something I'm proud of. This year, I'm focusing on quality over quantity. There'll be fewer interviews, but I'm going to make sure each one is something I'm truly excited about. I'll be putting in more effort with follow-ups, audio, and graphics because the people who give me their time deserve nothing less. Thank you to everyone who listens. We've got big things ahead, and I hope we can continue putting out content we're proud of.  WE'RE BACK! Check out our interview with Chat Pile now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this episode, we sit down with Mat Kerekes, the multifaceted frontman of Citizen, to dive deep into his solo work, his ever-evolving approach to music, and his unique balance of passion projects. Whether it's fronting an iconic band like Citizen, writing his own songs as a solo artist, or stepping into the role of a producer, Mat seems to do it all—and do it well. Mat's most recent solo release, To Dream of Something Wicked, dropped on Wax Bodega to rave reviews, and in this interview, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the record. As Mat explains, the album was a labor of love that came together organically during a transitional time in his life. Written and recorded while moving back home, he unintentionally tapped into a sound that echoed his 2016 release Luna & the Wild Blue Everything—an album that established his solo sound. But with this latest project, Mat says, “This record is just me,” showing that he's not trying to emulate anyone or anything. He's comfortable with who he is, and that authenticity is reflected in the music. We also explore Mat's evolving relationship with Citizen, touching on the 10-year anniversary of Youth in 2023 (which, for Mat, marked a turning point in both his career and his personal life). He shares funny and heartfelt stories from those early days of the band, as well as his growth—from an insecure high school kid to a driven musician who balances his time between creating, performing, and pursuing other passions like Muay Thai and video games. As we discuss his solo career, Mat reveals that his solo music often happens during downtime from Citizen. While the band will always be his main focus, his solo work offers a refreshing outlet—one that allows him to write without the pressure of a larger team. In fact, his solo endeavors have been more low-key with little press or touring, but we can expect a short 2-3 week stretch in 2025, with Mat playing a handful of dates before moving on to the next phase of his career. If there's one thing that stands out about Mat, it's his ability to fully dedicate himself to whatever he does. Whether it's music, the gym, or martial arts, he gives it everything he's got. A self-proclaimed gym rat who's constantly training, Mat is someone who truly takes advantage of the 24 hours in a day, leaving no room for regrets. We had a blast chatting with Mat—his humor, honesty, and passion shine through in this conversation. Be sure to listen to the full interview for insights into Mat's creative process, his growth as both an artist and a person, and of course, some great stories from the road with Citizen.

What can we say about Speed and their iconic hit record Only One Mode that hasn't already been said? If you're a hardcore fan, you know the vibe. This lovable group from Australia brings everything you could ask for: raw energy, relentless drive, and authenticity on and off the stage. They're more than just a band; they're an unstoppable force in hardcore, breaking boundaries worldwide. In this latest episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Jem from Speed. Going into this, I knew I was a HUGE fan. But after diving into Jem's past interviews, I could see why Speed resonates so deeply with fans. Jem's responses are thoughtful, warm, and make you feel like you've been friends for years. In my pre-interview deep dive/preparation, I stumbled on a post by one of the band members' parents—it was a true celebration of the band's journey. You can see the genuine love they have for each other. From holiday gatherings to major events, Speed is more than a band; they're family. What was supposed to be an 1-hour convo turned into an epic 2-hour hangout (sorry, Jem!). Tate and I walked away feeling like we made a friend. Huge thanks to Jem for being so open and genuine. We'll always be fans of Speed!

In this episode, we dive deep with Sam and Skylar of Been Stellar as tearlier in the year they celebrated the release of their debut album, Scream from New York, NY. Having crafted their musical bond since the age of 14, the duo reflects on the evolution of their sound from singles and EPs to a full-length record. Join us as they share the story behind the album—how the pressure of previous EP's success fueled their desire to create something raw and authentic. Sam and Skylar discuss their mission to deliver emotionally resonant lyrics that defy trends and showcase their unique identity as a band. With the vibrant backdrop of New York City as their canvas, they explore the challenges and triumphs of relocating from Michigan to the bustling metropolis. Discover how their shared experiences in a new city shaped their music and lyrics, and how they navigated a scene marked by the closure of historic venues. It took away from that magical notion that musical dreams could be created in NYC. However, determination carried them up to this point as they found ways to throw their own shows early on at venues such as art galleries.  This episode is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of friendship in the ever-evolving music landscape. Tune in to hear the heartfelt sounds of Been Stellar and understand what it truly means to scream from New York!

This week, we sit down with Adrian from Luster to dive deep into their creative process and the unique dynamics of the band. We discuss how they manage to blend emotional vulnerability with a sound that's evolved over the years. Highlights Include: The surprising fact that, despite playing shoegaze the most, it's what Adrian listens to the least! The origins of Luster as a "bedroom project," with Adrian and Alvin sending ideas back and forth, allowing the rest of the band to contribute at their own pace. How Adrian and Alvin's friendship began 10+ years ago at California shows, not as childhood friends, but as kindred spirits shaped by a shared culture and humor. Adrian's thoughts on embracing emotion in music, especially within Latin culture, where expressing feelings is often discouraged. Why moving to a small town of just 400 people has given Adrian the peace and space he needs to be creative. Reflections on the band's emo-adjacent sound and how Adrian's emotional experiences influence his lyrics. Plus, Adrian shares stories of growing up listening to everything from Nu Metal to Slayer, and the band tattoos that have left a lasting mark: Morrissey, Unbroken, Psychic TV, and Swans. This episode is filled with honest insights and reflections from a band that started with a simple mission—to play music with friends—and has checked off dream collaborations along the way. Don't miss out on this amazing conversation!  

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of a band that emerged from the fusion of passion and persistence. Our story begins a decade ago with Eric Stenman, who was writing heavier music that he never imagined would reach the public eye. Eric's early musical journey intertwined with Aaron Bruno's in the late '90s through their shared love for hardcore music. Despite their separate creative paths —Eric focusing on music production and Aaron eventually forming Awolnation—they would later find a way to create a band together (although they have been working together for years with Aaron writing for Awolantion and Eric producing all of the records).  After years of Eric leaning more towards production and not playing much instrumentals, Aaron, having heard some of Eric's latest work, was impressed and wanted to continue on other songs. This pivotal moment led to the formation of a new band that stands apart from traditional music paths. Unlike many bands that spend years on the road in a van, this group is driven by their love for hardcore music and are doing it because their passions align.  With four songs already released, including the recent track "Bazooka" on August 2, listeners can expect some exciting surprises and new directions from this band. The new record will be out on October 4th  In our conversation with Eric, we also explored his impressive career as a producer. Since 1997, he's avoided the day job to build a notable resume working with bands like Deftones, Weezer, Thrice, Dashboard Confessional, Senses Fail, and Awolnation. We asked Eric to reflect on his experiences with these iconic groups, providing listeners with insightful anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. Tune in to hear about the origins of the band, their unique approach to music, and Eric's reflections on his storied career in the industry.      

We had Vince of Modern Color on to talk about "There Goes the Dream." The writing process for their latest record was fragmented, as Vince has been personally juggling other projects and endeavors—being on the road with Militarie Gun while still touring with Modern Color. It took a little longer to write because they thrive on getting in a room together and bouncing ideas off each other. Nonetheless, the wait was well worth it. Usually, Fleming or Chad come in with a full song, and they start jamming to develop those ideas. The best part? They can be real with each other and give productive feedback. That all led to the carefully crafted songs on "There Goes the Dream." It was a recipe for success for the band.  This record is all about making intentional changes. They focused on Fleming's writing and vocals first, instead of writing the music and adding lyrics later. Modern Color also got more personal with their songwriting, shortening the song lengths, and becoming more direct. These songs tell the story of growing up in the South Bay, surrounded by music everywhere they went. "Where's Kevin" is one of those stories—it's a handwritten apology to Fleming's mom about sneaking out as a kid. The title itself stems from a building manager who was never around when he was needed. And there's something for everyone, even an acoustic track like "Night Swim."  Growing up in the metalcore scene in the South Bay, they played the same venues with the same bands every weekend. It felt stale, and that's when they realized they wanted to do something different. Since then, it's been a journey of finding the band's sound and pushing it in a new direction—that's been the driving force behind Modern Color.  Balancing tours has shown Vince the importance of a stable lineup for the band to grow and continue to progress. As they reach 10 years with Modern Color, they reflect on the chemistry built from growing up together. Though our lineup wasn't solidified until they wrote "Pale" in Vince's room in 2015, the DIY spirit that started it all continues to push them forward. They are moving ahead, but they also know there's still so much work left to do. Stick around until the end to hear personal stories from Vince duing our "lighning round." I really loved hearing why Vince explain how he was fidgity as a kid and was always drumming against some type of surface.     

Tate jumps behind the mic for an exclusive interview with Grant from Hear to Gold!  We chat about everything from new jams leading to a 10-song record coming out at a later date. The journey started out with self-producing the first album and eventually the band teamed up with Memory Music. Now they are a force in the music scene just recently working alongside the incredible Will Yip which has been a game changer.  While their writing process remains consistent, collaborating with a broader team outside the band has fueled their fire even more. The motivation is at an all-time high, and the band is stoked about what's coming next. Grant opens up about his thoughts on corporate music and how it contrasts with his true vision of what music and art should be. Keeping his morals intact, he's managed to balance two jobs while making it clear that his passion for music—and touring—comes first.  Oh, and did we mention that Tate and Grant have a serious appreciation for Weezer? I think most will love this part of the conversation! There's also a fun conversation about genre classification which in Grant's mind is totally subjective. But one thing's for sure—their energy behind every song is 100% authentic and natural. If you haven't yet, make sure to check out Heart to Gold's new song "TNT" which came out at the end of July. 

We're super excited to share our latest episode featuring Brendan Dyer and Yarden Erez of Milly! Their 2024 record, "Your Own Becoming," released on June 28, has been one of my most anticipated albums this year for me, especially after the single "Drip From the Fountain" dropped. This album is easily in my top 5 for 2024!  The band started crafting this masterpiece on a New Year's Day when Brendan decided it was time to make a record. It was a coming together moment where they realized that they needed to go hard on the new songs. They poured their hearts into the songs, meeting three times a week and pushing their creative limits. This album marks a comeback for Brendan, who wasn't entirely happy with their first full-length album. In this episode, we dive into some cool stories behind the songs - especially a fun fact about one of the songs coming their way in a trade from waveform*.  Also, "Drip From the Fountain" almost didn't make it onto the record after they were told it didn't have the juice? It eventually became the first single released leading into the record.  This podcast had a different start to it where we used a lightening round of questions to learn about the background of the group. We had silly questions like most meaningful band tee they own and superstitions amongst the group (like the amazing response Brendan gives - *cough* Panda Express *cough cough*). But, there are also questions that allow us to learn about how the band formed and the journey leading up to this most recent release. There's also a fun conversation about some of the tours they are tagging along for such as Basement, Fiddlehead, and Balance and Composure.     

We are to have Joey Vannucci of From Indian Lakes on to discuss his new record, "Head Void", which was released on May 15! This is his first FIL album since 2019, and it was worth the wait.  "Head Void" is a very organic, pick-up-the-guitar-and-bang-on-the-drums type of record. None of these songs were sitting around for long—they were all written and finished within a couple of months. Each track brings a unique sound, continuing his tradition of exploring different musical landscapes with every release. While Joe Vann, his solo project, marked a significant chapter in his career, releasing three albums in three years, he is now building on all the music he created while starting FIL. This interview has a little bit of everything. Joey grew up on 40 acres of land and then moved to New York City when his wife landed a job. For some that would be a culture shock, but it wasn't a difficult adjustment for Joey. NYC offered so many amazing opportunities, especially within music.  In this episode, we also dive into 90s and early 2000s TV shows, video games, and there's even a little NBA playoffs discussion thrown in for good measure.

During a recent music lull, podcasts dominated my morning commute until Pissed Jeans shook me awake with their new record! The song "Moving On" hit me like a lightning bolt – from the killer intro riff to those raw, punk vocals, it was pure magic. Their latest album "Half Divorced" reaffirmed my punk roots, reminding me why I fell in love with this genre in the first place. These guys aren't just a band; they're a rebellion against the mundane. Taking a break from adulting, they crank out music that's loud, unapologetic, and utterly captivating. Randall Huth brought their story to life on the podcast – trust me, it's a wild ride worth tuning into. If you haven't already, crank up "Half Divorced" and let Pissed Jeans transport you to a time when punk ruled and conformity was nowhere in sight. Don't miss out – this is punk rock at its finest!

Get ready to switch gears with us as Tate Daniels, the wizard behind the editing scenes, steps into the limelight for an electrifying interview with the entire Riley! band! Fresh off the press, their latest record "Keep Your Cool" dropped on April 19, and if you haven't tuned in yet, well, you might just be Patrick Star living under a rock. This full-length masterpiece marks a monumental moment for the trio since joining Counter Intuitive Records, adding another gem to the label's star-studded catalog of bangers. Mark your calendars because this Texas threesome is hitting the road starting late June, with shows lined up all the way through July. Until then, keep those speakers blasting with their latest tunes and dive into the behind-the-scenes scoop in our interview - trust us, you won't want to miss out on the fun facts about the lovable Riley!

We were lucky enough to catch Mercedes Arn-Horn of Softcult on the same day of when they released their new hit single, One of the Pack. It's a song with a special and important meaning that Mercedes gives her honest and authentic self during the song and while talking about it  on our podcast. In the words of Mercedes, "In Softcult we pride ourselves on being femnists and advocating for equality in every shape-and-form. We are kind of bringing back riot grrl ethos to the shoegaze world." There is still an ongoing debate about who belongs where and this song spotlights that there can discomfort at times for women - even in the music community. It's an absolute jam with an incredibly paramount message beind it. If anything, this song shows that Softcult is ready for the big stage with another gem of a song.  What catches my attention most about this band is that nothing has been handed to them. They have seen adversity and are stronger as a group because of it. It helps that Softcult is centered around twins (Mercedes & Phoenix) who share a similar vision. But, in the beginning they had a small taste of success when a major label signed them at a young age. This positive feeling only lasted for so long when they saw business side of music. After putting in countless hours and seeing a long list of their songs shot down - they made the decision to go out on their own. They now make every decision surrounding the band. The twins even go as far as doing all of the production, art work, tour scheduling, and most importantly, picking which songs get released to the public. Mercedes and Phoenix decided to bet on themselves and it worked out!  Tate and I really enjoyed having Mercedes join us for an epic conversation. There's even a portion of the interview where we all talk about horror movies! We will release Mercedes' favorites later in the week. 

We have a good one for you tonight! While the Richmond, VA crowd gets to see Glitterer live (jealous, much!) we are dishing out an interview with Ned Russin. For several years now several of my friends have been sending me music whenever Glitterer released songs. Ned's new project, that officially came to be in 2017 when he released a self-title album, quickly grew on me. Whenever someone has a successful project, it's often tough to seperate oneself from that image. However, Ned had a goal in mind and quickly got to work - creating the songs mostly on his own by playing every instrument except for the drums. While Ned had a plan and hit the ground running with Glitterer, this project recently welecomed other members into the band. These members played an "instrumental" role in creating the album the record, Rationale (released in February of this year). It also seems like they will continue to be a main stay for the live experience and possibly future releases.  Ned has been consistently touring since he was 19-years old after he dropped out of college to do the band exclusevely. The only schedule Ned has known is being on the road. But, he has since put a focus on other things such as finishing up his degree and working at a record store. Glitterer tours when they can and it's always a special moment whenever someone can catch them live. There are a lot of fun stories in this one such as studying on the road while in Title Fight, his parents valuing an education, writing an releasing a book three years ago (Horizontal Rust - check it out!), and looking up to his older brother during the early years. 

Kevin Devine is someone that every young musician should listen to. Throughout this conversation he gave some of the most well thought out responses I have seen on the podcast. He analyzes everything and looks at music from a lense that not every musician can see through. He is also a genuine personality and is one of the nicest people out there. The interview itself was all over the place - It started with living on Staten Island covering Nirvana songs and ended with a quick conversation about how terrible our favorite sports organizations are. This is truly a must listen so tune it up and let us know your thoughts!

Matt Pryor joined us to talk about his new book, "Red Letter Days" which hit shelves on January 23. He left us with a ton of great advice for young musicians and took a deep dive in a good chunk of the fun stories that appear in this book. It's certainly a page turner so pick up a copy if you have not done so already! Purchase the book here: https://polyvinylrecords.com/product/red_letter_days

I'm going to take you back to about a year ago. It was February of 2023 and Gouge Away was in the midst of a return. This was after several years of staying relatively quiet and a behind the scenes breakup. Gouge Away was in Portland having a band practice when they reached out to Militarie Gun about showing up to watch them play on a kick-ass bill of Spiritual Cramp and Supercrush. Ian Shelton and the rest of the members of Militarie Gun had other plans for the night. After some convincing, they set up plans for Gouge Away to make an epic return. In the middle of their set they turned the spotlight over to Gouge Away, who came on the stage to play two songs (One new). It was a night to remember and got the ball rolling for the new music that Gouge Away planned to eventually release. "Idealized" came out shortly after, and the band released "Stuck in a Dream" on January 9. This is setting the table for Deep Sage to arrive on March 15. It's a record that Christina Michelle says will be different, and at times “weird,” but if the first two songs tell us anything: it's that Gouge Away hasn't lost a step. This group is ready to not only break through the surface, but also become one of the premier hardcore bands. It has been a rollercoaster of a ride for the group. They released Burnt Sugar in 2018 and toured non-stop up until the pandemic. Then came the low-key breakup where Christina Michelle never thought the band would be together again. Now, the band is back, with a refreshed sound, a mature outlook, and ready to show the world that they are here to stay.     Gouge Away:   Website - https://www.gougeaway.com/   Bandcamp - https://gougeawayfl.bandcamp.com/album/deep-sage

For a majority of his music career, Erik Kase Romero has been behind the scenes. Romero has developed into a prominent music producer – most notably working with the Front Bottoms (also plays instrumentals in the live experience), Lorde, and the Bouncing Souls. Romero has developed a name for himself in the industry and his musical genius is something that musicians desire. A quick peek at his website takes the viewer into a magical journey that involves a large list of production. It's a list that would be considered a “dream” for anyone just breaking into the business. Romero is now a seasoned veteran and in some ways can be picky when thinking about who he will invite to his home studio next. Romero has been involved in bands on the local circuit for years now. But, what seemed like a silly idea, quickly became a reality over the past year. Romero made the decision to branch out with his abilities and start a solo project. While it has been a great success so far, it was no easy decision. As previously stated, Romero has always been in the background through production and instrumentals in various groups. His solo act is serving as a time where he has the mic and the listeners get to hear his powerful words. His single still already caught the listener's attention for how vulnerable and relatable Romero is through his lyrics. While Romero will continue to push his songs through social media and has several live shows coming up, he does not care for commercial success. This project is not meant to result in headlining huge venues, but instead it's another chance to grow as a musical mind, and have some fun while doing so. How to be still and still be here is set to be released tomorrow. Make sure to give it a listen and support Romero as he takes on this solo adventure. Audio edited by Tate Daniels Graphic by Rosemary Young Host Steven Macri  Instagram - @behindthevinylpod X - @BehindVinyl Leave us a review or subscribe! Both help us big time!    

When you sit back and think about some of the centerpieces of hardcore punk in the early 2000's, Paint it Black will instantly come to mind. Especially in the Philadelphia area. Philadelphia has a long history of great bands that paved the way for what music music is today. Paint it Black fits that category. One of the most exciting news of this year is when Paint it Black decided to release "Famine." It was the band's first full-length record since 2008 and it did not miss. The biggest praise I can say about this group is that they have not lost their sound. I could have been told that this record was from 20+ years ago when Paint it Black was first forming and I would have believed it. They still have the same energy and are sticking to their roots. The band's story is known by now - they came together when another legendary Philadelphia based group, Kid Dynamite, decided to hang up the band tees, and call it quits. Dan Yemin was still had the same drive from the beginning of Kid Dynamite and wanted to continue making music, so he decided to turn things up a notch and form Paint it Black. Instead of sitting with a guitar on the stage, he decided to switch over to vocals, because no matter what, the band will continue as long as the singer is still there.  It was a huge honor to have an established musician like Andy Nelson on. Punk music is engraved deep in his heart and it was a true pleasure to hear some of his inspirations. This included a fantastic conversation about Dillinger Four. "Famine" is a record I can play from start to finish, so while we were on the inspirations conversation, we discussed what he believes makes a "perfect" record. Continously, we really explored this album and heard about what it took to make this record. While the band doesn't tour much anymore, everyone should make it a point to see them if they are ever in your city. Spoiler alert- there might be a conversation about Nelson's other band, Ceremony, making a surprise appearance at Sound and Fury. Intro by Rainville Audio edits by Tate Daniels Flyer by Rosemary Young Host Steven Macri

We are joined by the real Kevin Hart* of Public Opinion which has been a fun new discovery in 2023 and ready to take on the world in 2024. The band is extremely underrated but with a full catalogue of new songs waiting to be released, the group should see a welcoming success in the near future. Hart, who has a rich history of playing in several different groups, said that he wants to release the new songs over an extended period of time rather than having them hit streaming services all at once. This way the band can dodge the burnout feeling that counless bands are subjected to during the hustle and the listeners have the opportunity to savor the songs one at a time. Although Hart works a full-time job, he has accepted the amount of hours that this band will take in order to find success. That includes recording, hitting the road for tour, and doing the tedious admin tasks such as merch designs. While Public Opinion is relatively new, they have already seen several different live lineups. Hart is willing to play with anyone who has a vision and is open to the idea of a rotating group of instrumentals. Public Opinion also has a support circle as they release music through Convulse Records - a label that features Gel and MSPAINT. Hart also discusses his long standing friendship with Ian Shelton and how Shelton always had the goal of bringing back fast hardcore music. Shelton has been in Public Opinon's corner since the start and continues to make a difference by offering support to up-and-coming bands. Brace yourselves... 2024 should be a year of headlines for Public Opinion. The momentum started with the release of "Bug" back in September. 

Charmer's music has always been a powerful exploration of mental health, and "Rose Thorns" is no exception. What's different this time? The lyrics have matured, and the songs are all about moving forward from the mental health struggles that life throws our way. It's a journey towards finding clarity and purpose in life. David believes this new music takes him back to the "early Charmer" days. Get ready for some amazing harmonies and a huge emphasis on guitar playing in these tracks!  In this interview, David opens up about the challenges Charmer faced and the ultimate motivation that drives them today. After college, David took a bold step by moving to the East Coast, fully committing himself to the world of music. The band self-released several EPs, but the growth they hoped for just didn't materialize. It was a tough period. Undeterred, when things didn't go as planned, David decided to return to Michigan with Neil. They had a handful of songs left, so they recorded them, almost like a parting gift to the band. Little did they know, this would mark a turning point. In 2017, Charmer did five dates with Free Throw, and it marked a turning point for them. Prior to that, they had been slogging it out on some pretty tough DIY tours. These tours, while memorable, were often in front of small crowds and with very little money to show for it. Charmer's journey continued with the release of their first LP, but for the first six months, there was radio silence. The album didn't take off right away, and they had to rely on word of mouth to get some attention. It was only when their second record came out that things really started to change. People began to listen to both albums, and Charmer's music started to gain traction. The pandemic brought a lot of downtime and changes for everyone, including Charmer. They found themselves dealing with family obligations and even David hitting the road with Hot Mulligan, which demanded his focus. However, this past year has been a turning point. They finally had the opportunity to sit down and get back to making music. The result? The band feels like they've improved significantly. We are happy that David and Charmer are writing music again. Check out "Rose Thorns" and let us know what you think. Also, make sure to catch Charmer, Free Throw, Prince Daddy & The Hyena, and Saturday's At Your Place on tour! This is just the beginning of an exciting musical direction, and we can't wait to share more with you. Stay tuned for more updates!          

We have Saturdays At Your Place on a special Saturday release of BTV! So, hopefully BTV can spend this Saturday at your place... The band first met in college and quickly recognized the incredible house show scene in Michigan. After creating a catalogue of songs that was enough to hit the road, the emo outlet decided to hit the road once the pandemic cooled down. Since then, there has been nothing but praise from listeners across the country, as they have seen a quick and steady rise through the emo rankings. The proof is in the facts as they amass about 128,000 monthly listeners on Spotify alone and are about to begin a monster of a tour with legendary bands such as Free Throw, Prince Daddy & The Hyena, and Charmer. If you can't get enough of their debut album always cloudy then you are in luck! Earlier this month the band released a single called pourover which is included on a split that the group did with Shoplifter and Summerbruise. The split dropped on 11/17 through No Sleep Records. 

We had Pittsburgh's finest, Short Fictions, back to talk about their face melting album, Oblivion Will Own Me and Death Alone Will Love Me. 

“It's not what you say, it's how you say it” These words are what Nathan Hardy of Microwave lives by. You can hear it in his songs through the raw emotion that comes out in Microwave's lyrics. Experienced writer's often say you have to listen if you ever want to say anything worth while. Basically, in short, it means you have to read and experience other styles in order to develop your own. The same could be said for Hardy who reads often. It comes in forms of books and poetry. It all helps him consistently develop as a writer and a person. People often believe that listening to solely music will make someone a better musician but Hardy has found this fulfillment through literature. However, several years ago all music came to a halt. In 2019 Microwave put out their hit record “Death is a Warm Blanket.” It seemed like the beginning of what would be a fast climb to the top for the band. They were on the heels of going over seas to tour and really built a fan base that showed a consistent love for the band. Those dreams were quickly crushed when the pandemic officially locked everyone away at home and forced the music industry to find new ways to reach an audience. Hardy specifically took a step back from writing so that he could see the next move for the music science. It was unclear when and how touring would even return. After waiting about two years to see what the landscape of music was turning into, Microwave played several huge shows that struck some motivation in them again and resulted in new music. In 2022 Microwave released their first single since 2019 - a refreshing sign for the band's passionate listeners. Since then several other songs have been released and all signs points towards this only being the beginning. Hardy has such a unique way of looking at different life topics. Especially music as a whole. Listen to this interview because Hardy was a great conversation and taught me a lesson or two.

When I say Militarie Gun is one of my favorite bands, that's not an understatement. The band's June 23 release, Life Under The Gun, put an exclamation point on that remark. It felt like record from a veteran band - one that has been around for 10-20. However, for Militarie Gun, they have only been releasing music since 2020 as a group, and made instant noise in the hardcore scene with All Roads Lead To The Gun. It helped that the members all come from excellent projects (Regional Justice Center, Modern Color, and Drug Church). Now Militarie Gun is getting their rightful recognition. Life Under The Gun will pop up on countless Album of the Year lists. This interview was recorded in July around the time of the viral video between Ian Shelton and Post Malone. We hear a fun story of how that connection came to be. There's also an in-depth conversation about collaboration projects. I don't think anyone has forgotten about the song Pressure Cooker that Militarie Gun did with Dazy last year. Shelton also helped out with music from MSPAINT and Cold Mega. Give this interview a listen! It was a long time coming!

  A magazine wrote earlier in the year that Fidlar is unapologetically back. The group took a noticeable three year hiatus right before the pandemic. They were burnt out after touring 10-11 years straight. But, what often gets misconstrued is that Fidlar planned the whole time to step away, which is far from the truth. Perhaps it's the mysterious move to delete everything on social media. But, the band had plans to release music without touring. Now, for the unapologetically back… bands often make a big deal about their return to the spotlight. That wasn't the case for Fidlar. Carper jokes “If anything, we are sorry we are back.” Fidlar released two covers in Nookie and Free Fallin' recently. The band is no strangers to covers after doing their own version of Sabotage early on in their career. There is no end in sight for Fidlar now. There will be endless “Don't Fuck With” EP volumes since they have so much music ready to go. This is an exciting interview because Carper was not afraid to open up. He did not shy away from talking about his issues with drugs and being in and out of juvie and rehab centers. He talked about the real reason he moved to California - leaving Hawaii behind. Having a flight booked for March 23 to Japan during the first year of the pandemic because he originally had plans of working with his cousin in Japan. Lastly, the Florida tour and his plans to do surprise pop ups in coffee shops. This was a really fun conversation. Fidlar is open to all kinds of press, including bad press, but my gut tells me the band will continue to receive positive reviews from here on out.

Bandcamp: https://restrainingorderhc.bandcamp.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4HXv1CWVOyIO8ZNvGOSyEy?si=O3yDmKM4RBKFsXWH0vt_BQ Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/restraining-order/6290600

Kamtin Mohager was known for his time in Teenage Wrist leading into pandemic, but around 2020 he went through a transition period. Mohager decided to part ways with Teenage Wrist and started up Heavenward. It was the first time since The Chain Gang of 1974 that Mohager had the opportunity to call all of the shots. He was able to let his true music colors. But, instead of returning to his dance music routes that listeners became familiar with while listening to The Chain Gang of 1974, Mohager continued to build on his shoegaze sound that Teenage Wrist projected through their music. Mohager put out an exciting debut record for Heavenward on June 16 labeled Pyrophonics. With so much already accomplished during his music career, it's hard to find something that Mohager hasn't covered yet, but he decided to show a side that listeners haven't seen yet - which was the ultimate recipes for a masterpiece of a record. Mohager has been living the business side of music since making it a main focus and signing with a major label. This record gave him freedom to be creative and go in whatever direction he felt appropriate. Mohager decided to have his friends join along, calling it a full collaberation with his friends, a group that included Nathanial Motte 3OH!3. Experience is what fueld the drive for this record. At this point Mohager knows what he wants and what he doesn't want out of his music. He is all about celebrating small wins at this point in his career instead of rushing the process. I would say Pyrophonics was a massive win for Heavenward.  Bandcamp: https://heavenwardband.bandcamp.com/album/staircase-music Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3iKDeO8yaOiWz7vkeljunk?si=-oZrCWzuSpu_r7mjuGpsmA Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/heavenward/1526237028  

Drew Waldon and Gumm have seen rapid success over the course of the past year. The band can fall back on the hard work finally paying off. The members of Gumm all work jobs outside of the band but they take on every show and tour that comes their way. Gumm is the first band that Waldon has fronted and the EP Staring Through You is the first time he has recorded vocals. There is continued growth going into their debut record, Slogan Machine. The album has eight songs on it with every song being so good that they could have been a single.  Gumm started out as a side project with Waldon playing drums. They originally played heavy hardcore music and that is when Waldon realized that's not the style he wanted to continue with. Waldon was listening to a lot of Ceremony and found inspiration in their music. Waldon has been going to shows for over 12 years now and has seen the Chattanooga scene grow. Bands like Spy, Gel, and Drug Church have made a point to come through. Now, Waldon and the rest of the band get to see what other places are like while on the road. Gumm is fresh off a tour that consisted of Drain as the headline act and also had Drug Church on it too. Waldon has created his own story and is finding success. He was originally homeschooled in a Christian household. His mom originally kept him from listening to aggressive music like Rancid and other punk groups. Eventually he moved in with his dad and was introduced to a new world of music - which led to having to hide his choice in music. His mom has since accepted his lifestyle choice and has even been in the audience for a few shows. Gumm is now finding their way and have a clear path in front of them. Catch them with bands like 7 Seconds and Fiddlehead later this year!  Bandcamp: https://gumm.bandcamp.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4iJSuRiHxC9zkb3nN4aYWA?si=--nCrxRXTdusxULrB5Zwnw Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gumm/641605267

  I saw Oso Oso several years ago for the first time in a small town in New Jersey. I was instantly hooked after their debut album, Real Stories of True People Who Kind of Looked Like Mosters…, and always wanted to see them live, but never really had the opportunity. Around 2018, right before Basking in the Glow came out, I took the trek to a small venue in NJ, and saw Jade and his band play in front of a room of maybe 20-30 people. It has been fun being from the outside looking in and seeing Oso Oso grow as a group. They now travel the world and fill up venues to capacity as a headlining act. It was a true honor being able to chat with Jade Lilitri in-person before his Asbury Park gig. I always felt a connection to not only his music but some of his interest. Of course the emo music is a great start, but he's also from Long Island, where I was born, and has been on record as a huge Knicks fan. I learned during this conversation that he is a die-hard Yankees fan and grew up with the team - Bernie Williams being his favorite player. We really took this interview in several different directions. Jade told us about his dog and how that's always his chance to decompress when home from a long tour. He discussed how Basking in the Glow was a record where he could finally quit his job at a bar and saw a growing audience. There's a fun story about when he didn't receive a positive welcome from a punk show as a teenager and how he was able to bounce back after a gig that could've pushed him away from music. How a song on MySpace led to confidence and helped Jade find his voice. Lastly, how life experiences and the loss of a best friend has led to a new meaning behind touring and the band as a whole.

It's the return of the legendary Mikey Erg on Behind the Vinyl - this time for an in-person interview before The Ergs! show in Asbury Park last month. This interview is a little more focused on The Ergs! so if you are a fan of the band this is definitely a discussion for you. We talked about the return of pop punk when The Ergs! first formed, The Fest and how it's the best show anyone will play the entire year, the “final” show at the Asbury Lanes in 2008, the band originally breaking up but since teaming up again and building momentum (New songs + and more shows), playing a handful of West Coast shows last year, carrying the hometown of Old Bridge with them, putting out two new EPs last year, working with Steve Albini for a solo record, and how his solo self titled record could had been a The Ergs! record. 

When you hear 90's punk bands from Chicago talk about their inspirations, The Bollweevils are almost always mentioned in some capacity. After 14+ years of not releasing music, The Bollweevils are back in action, with the record Essential coming out in May on Red Scare. Before talking about the new music, we jumped in a time machine and discussed being on Dr. Strange before Red Scare and the bands that were on the label - a list that includes Face to Face and 7 Seconds. Dr. Dr. Daryl Wilson was passionate about being on Dr. Strange, and has the same feelings towards Red Scare, calling them the band's ride or die. There was a lot of history in this episode. It was mostly the history of punk so if you like hearing about bands who paved the way for punk music - then this is the interview for you. But, we also deeply discussed his passion for comics and how frequent he is picking up new releases. Wilson got accepted into medical school and eventually had to start a residency. It was a big reason why he stepped away from the band for an extended time period and didn't tour with the band. He's now an emergency room doctor and has a ton of experience in the medical field under his belt. There is no better opportunity to put a big focus on the band again and see where it goes. The band released the new record on May 5 and have since hit the road. We talked about the new songs and how everything came together again. There was also a discussion about involvement in punk and there has been growth over the years. 

We have Sunny Singh, also known as hate5six, for this one. Most hardcore fans know him for popping up at shows across the country with a camera in hand but he has also made a huge impact on the community as a whole. Ever since Sunny decided to leave his full-time job, he has made a pact with himself to push even harder with the new year. This year's goals currently sits at 1,000 recorded sets, in which Sunny was way ahead of schedule when this episode was recorded. What makes hate5six so honorable is that he's willing to give new bands a shot. Someone can send a simple message over social media and Sunny will be in the audience that night. There are countless bands that will contribute quick success to a video that the hate5six name releases of their set. It's a one man project but Sunny releases at the speed of a company of 100+ employees. Since the beginning the goal has been to help bands find an audience. The channel has always been accessible to newer and younger bands.     Hard work always seems to pay off when someone has a vision and is willing to put in the time. That is what happened to Sunny when he was asked to jump on the most recent Rage Against the Machine tour for select dates. Sunny had the opportunity to continue to build his name while watching one of his favorite childhood bands return to the stage. Sunny is someone who speaks up about topics that matter dearly to him. He wants to use his platform to educate his followers with the research he conducts. That mindset falls back to his early days with Rage Against the Machine. They opened the door for speaking up for yourself and creating clarity for a large population.   This is a project that demands endless hours. Sunny is the definition of "perfectionist." Some would believe that he is filming at a faster rate than most people can consume, but Sunny is beating the odds. His page is closely watched on a daily basis. Sunny is careful with his edits, but the end result is rewarding. These videos are timestamping music history. 

Dirty Heads have by now solidified themselves as a true southern California staple group, with each release continuing to demonstrate their ability to effortlessly transcend genre. It seems the trick to their unique brand of artistry is to often create (and at times, reimagine) as an extension of an intended mood, without overthinking or taking things too seriously—a feat much easier said than done, but one that Dirty Heads have worked to achieve over their 17 years as a band. Catch the Dirty Heads live experience as they embark on the Island Glow Summer Tour this week!

Dave Hause is a musician who wears several hats. On the road, he's the front man of a well-known punk band. One that travels the world and releases music often. At home, he's a family man who can be found bringing his sons to school or running errands out in town for his family. The juggling act of being a musician with a family at home is a rewarding process. Dave said when he's home he is present. It's an opportunity to show his kids a creative life - a creative side that should be focused on more for our youth. His family's main rule is keep it balanced. He hits the road in blocks so that he can recharge and also be around the family. That way he can give his all when he's in the moment. Hause is still going strong. Two records have been released over the past year or so, plus his brother, Tim's new record was released in January. His brother brings a refreshing breathe to music. Hause now lives in California and his brother is still on the east coast, which means they have to find ways to record whether that's in-person or virtual. It's an obstacle most musicians deal with but at the end of the day he wants to create music that the audience will love. Hause even says about the live experience that he wants to give people what they didn't know they needed. There are a ton of fun stories In this interview.. especially the article Hause wrote about Taylor Swift being more punk than all of us - a public piece that received a lot of attention. There's also a story about over the pandemic when he put out cover songs of Dillinger Four. His record label, Blood Harmony Records, that he managers with his brother, is a way for them to self release. Each record shows growth for Hause.

New York hardcore has a legendary list of bands that have paved the way for a younger group to join the mix. Koyo is keeping the reputation going. Hailing from Long Island, Koyo is making it known that they are here to stay and will be a band to talk about, not only when discussing the history of NY hardcore, but the current chapter of hardcore music as a whole. Koyo has been busy this year. After forming right before the pandemic, something that derailed their start a bit, they have since been making up ground. After recently wrapping up a tour with Bayside, Koyo is current En route with No Pressure and soon will be overseas this summer. Joey is a fascinating mind and is full of knowledge. He talked about going on tour with bands that have a different sound or come from another time period and what that can mean for crowd presence. Joey also discusses the current state of the hardcore genre. He believes the current growth is something Koyo and others are benefiting from. He talks about participating in the genre and trying your best to be involved because it takes the whole community for it to be successful. We get into the importance of touring and how it has a bigger meaning coming out of Covid. Discussed how Koyo came to be and how timing worked out for everyone in the group. Joey mentions being able to concentrate on Koyo as a whole but leaving the door open for a possible Typecaste gig in the future. Lastly, we spotlight finding influence from others and how his peers are his motivators.There are endless fascinating topics during this interview.  Give it a listen and make sure to catch Koyo when they come to a town near you!

Step into the mind of Chris No. 2 as he takes us back to the origin story of Anti-Flag and what they have been fighting for through music since the start. There have been countless moments over the year where the band's message became dangerous for the members - fights at shows, death threats, and even seeing their merch taken out of big-time stores, but the band never lost focus. This group has been around for 30+ years now and although the path hasn't always been easy, like stated above, it has its rewarding moments, such as connecting the fans and when Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine took notice of their music. Chris No. 2 hopes for a moment where Anti-Flag doesn't have to exist anymore, but for now they are still creating music, recently putting out a record in January labeled, LIES THEY TELL OUR CHILDREN. The record had the likes of McIlrath of Rise Against, Jesse Leach of Killswitch Engage, Shane Told of Silverstein, and Stacey Dee of Bad Cop/Bad Cop. This one is worth the listen as we dive into deep topics that need some focus.

Here it is! The exclusive in-person interview with Frank Turner last Saturday at the Stone Pony Summer Stage!  We talked about how meaningful Asbury Park is (A fun story about Chuck Ragen + Tim Barry), the difference between touring in his 20s compared to now being in his 40s, opportunities outside of music on the road, finding an audience in locations outside of England, playing new songs live while mixing in the hits, weekly virtual live show fundraisers during the pandemic, how much Bruce Springsteen influenced his sound after growing up with punk, touring with the Counting Crows, getting on board with making music for a living, touring 50 states in 50 days last year, the current tour with Chuck Ragen and The Interrupters, and meaningful tattoos.  Give it a listen on Spotify and Apple. Don't forget to leave us review or comment below! We would love to hear from you! Website: https://frank-turner.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/27M9shmwhIjRo7WntpT9Rp?si=8CtDrY9PRWOr3Q7cuv6LcA Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/frank-turner/108696785

Back in 2018 I received a text from a buddy during the work day that Joyce Manor was playing at Vintage Vinyl (a record store in central Jersey that has since closed) that night and that I should definitely attend. Joyce Manor was at the midst of blowing up at the time. They saw quick success as a band through their first several records and were hoping to continue the success with their new record, Million Dollars to Kill Me. I didn't know what to expect. Joyce Manor is a band, even in 2018, that could have probably played a far larger venue that night and didn't necessarily need to make a stop in NJ when Philly and NYC are both close by. But, they filled the room and played a long set. What always stuck out to me is how much the band members cared. They took the time after their set to stick around and speak with every fan that wanted to approach them. It was a magical night, and even though I was already a big fan of their music, that genuine interaction made them leap into one of my favorites. That story was discussed on this episode with Matt Ebert, the bassist of Joyce Manor. Matt is a real humble guy who even admits that Joyce Manor only had two goals when they started as a band. Those two goals were to press vinyl and travel to tour Japan. They went on to accomplish that during the first couple of years. Since then they have accomplished some hefty goals that most bands only dream of. This includes recent success like playing Central Park last summer and touring with Weezer this year. However, humble continues to be the key word here. They still take the time to meet with fans and they barely even advertised their most recent record, 40 oz. to Fresno. What's not to love about Joyce Manor? Listen to interview in entirety on Spotify and Apple! Please take the chance to subscribe and leave us a rating!

Dylan Baldi joins Behind the Vinyl to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Cloud Nothings legendary record Attack on Memory. This record had countless implications for the band. For Dylan, it was the first record he transitioned over from being the main songwriter who mostly recorded in his parents' basement, and switched over to a more collaborative effort where the full band joined in on the recording efforts. Cloud Nothings had the opportunity to work with Steve Albini for Attack on Memory, and since then Dylan considers this the record that opened the doors "for only being in a band the past 10 years." Before that moment it was only a dream of touring the world and marching along with music writing.  Website: http://www.cloudnothings.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6rnbB5fuUuCSsspvFsxIpT?si=ivG7eKmzQ0-L3RV_rA6n2Q Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/cloud-nothings/377952839 Bandcamp: https://cloudnothings.bandcamp.com/  

It has been over a month since the phenomenal record release weekend of Screaming Females' album labeled Desire Pathway. There was a ton of excitement in the air leading up to the release and the band did not disappoint when it came time to finally hit the stage and play the songs. The Scream Females' home state of New Jersey was lucky enough to have the release of Desire Pathway and the annual Garden Party jam packed into a two night celebration. It was a festival loaded with great bands and close friends of the band that made the event to be even bigger and better than ever. The Screaming Females closed out the weekend release run with an intimate setting when they traveled to Philadelphia to play in a record store. All of it felt unreal and too good to be true. If the Screaming Females haven't already proved that they know how to throw a party, they sure gained recognition after this record and set of shows. It was only the start for what looks like it's going to be a huge year for the group.  On this episode give a listen to the early beginnings of the band where they discussed how the group formed and what has kept them together. We hear a funny audio clip about what subjects pop up in the van - including a history/current events lesson. Marissa chats about her solo project and the music she released on her own last year. Marissa also gives us a rundown of the unique art of the band. And of course ... the record iself and that incredible release weekend. Catch the band on tour because they are almost certainly coming to a venue near you in 2023! Website: https://www.screamingfemales.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3pZ666b6CyO1KGpVYirY0t?si=EkMvaSPtSCOdaR5QtjAJLg Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/screaming-females/311088670 Bandcamp: https://screamingfemales.bandcamp.com/album/desire-pathway

On the eve of the Bouncing Soul's release of Ten Stories High, Steve sits down with Greg Attonito to discuss the upcoming record. With Greg living in Idaho, and Zoom becoming the norm during the pandemic and the current landscape of the world, The Bouncing Souls took a different approach to this album. They threw away the pre-made lyric book and came in with a fresh outlook for the new music. They would have 40-minute Zoom chats to discuss the songs and arrange the music. All of this took place in a span of two weeks. That was the recipe to piecing together these highly anticipated songs. The excitement is in the air for this record, but I also had the chance to throw in several questions that have been on my mind for as long as I have been listening to The Bouncing Souls. Greg went down memory lane to discuss how Stoked for the Summer became a yearly gig in Asbury Park - stemming from their famous Home for the Holidays three day weekend that came around every year. Greg tells us about a Toots & The Maytals song The Bouncing Souls did during a live stream that will now make it's way on to a Pure Noise compilation. He dives into creating happy songs regardless of hard times that might appear in a song occassionally (for examples the song Anchors Aweigh- a song that came after a motorcycle trip on the heels of a breakup). Regardless of the situation, people will always recognize that the band are friends and that always comes out during songs. Lastly, we hear about several amazing stories about playing at City Gardens.  Songs used: Shannon's Song Say Anything Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3mvTAjG7rcyk7DQzLwauzV?si=L7q3wstvSFqE1St0LPzurQ Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-bouncing-souls/2987342    

We are visited by Deedee of one of the biggest bands to hit the airwaves this year, MSPAINT. The hardcore group is unique because they made an honest decision of not wanting a guitar when they formed over the pandemic. It was a risk since the public is naturally familiar with loud guitars and breakdowns, but MSPAINT has found a way to not only make it work, but also take the hardcore scene by storm. When Deedee and the rest of the group introduced themselves to Ian Shelton when Militarie Gun visited MSPAINT's hometown - Hattiesburg, Mississippi, little did they know that Ian would return in the near future, this time helping create and record the new album. This album has some of the best collaborations out there right now. Another song features Pierce Jordan of Soul Glo. MSPAINT album is out now anywhere you stream your music. Make sure you check it out! MSPAINT Bandcamp: https://mspainthattiesburg.bandcamp.com/album/s-t Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5sn6aQFrJvjsSIuaomA4to?si=9jy_4NLRT4KbPTLAmhQHbQ Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/mspaint/1505894775 Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qihKorPjmz754fECviFha?si=86315d43e5164f68 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/behind-the-vinyl/id1507304176  

This week's guest is the one-and-only Jeremy Bolm! We kick off the podcast talking about his own personal show, The First Ever Podcast, a fan favorite interview based podcast in the music industry. We talk about pre-interview nerves, which Jeremy believes is a positive because it shows that you care - the same goes for the live experience. Jeremy has had countless impressive guests appear on his show, giving us a quick rundown of several special episodes. The First Ever Podcast recently did a live episode that, no surprise, turned out to be a huge success.  This interview also switched over to the music side of things. Jeremy talked about bands collabing and how it's an opportunity to flex just how talented his friends are. He also gets into the reality of touring musicians giving up on their dreams and how being in a band was never a question for him. Jeremy also discusses the Touche Amore members evolving and how he realized early on that he needs to find ways to keep up. Lastly, Jeremy gets into his writing process and how his lyrics are almost always deeply personal. There are also plenty of other fun topics like Jeremy's appearance in the Weird Al movie, meeting Daniel Radcliffe, and doing the Run for Cover record selection - plus how his Revolver interview is the way I found the band Praise (a previous guest on the pod!). Check out his projects below! The First Ever Podcast: Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-first-ever-podcast/id1520216207 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1iJGq7WvG0hTEbduwbnc0d Touche Amore: Apple - https://music.apple.com/us/artist/touch%C3%A9-amor%C3%A9/433437119 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/16QCJENzcdhwka9bTKYMVB  

Ron Gallo takes little for granted, and time is certainly no exception. FOREGROUND MUSIC is not only yet another original take on what's really going on, but also a survey of Ron's primary ruminations on the world from past, present, and future. Still, the substance of these songs--some in-your-face, some buried deep within--is hyper-current, timeless, and relevant as ever. The fourth studio album from Ron Gallo is out everywhere March 3rd on the legendary Kill Rock Stars label--the perfect fit for the pioneering artist.

Josh Jurk of Garden State's own hardcore punk band, School Drugs, joins for interview No. 146. When Jared Hart was on last summer he mentioned some of the best shows from when he was growing up in the punk scene. He mentioned how Josh threw some of the best shows in New Jersey. Josh reminisces about his upbringings in this one. It all started at a local VFW in Manchester with his original band, The Jurks. Fun fact - Marissa from The Screaming Females did all of the artwork for The Jurks. The name has carried with him since and Josh jokes that the a musician's first band name has to be thought out. If you are from New Jersey - stay tuned because we get into a debate about some of the best deli's/restaurants in the area. All jokes aside, this was an episode that took on some serious subjects. School Drugs focuses on topics that could appear in the community such as addiction and mental health. Josh is the first to speak about mental health. In fact, he took it upon himself at The Fest, one of the biggest rock weekends of the year, and talking about seeing a therapist for the first time. Continuously, Josh can often be found at shows talking about addiction. He has experienced several close friends go through it and supports the charity Harm Reduction. Website can be found here: https://www.samhsa.gov/ Josh also takes the graphic design portion of the band extremely seriously. Check out his page for some samples, he does every design on his own. Josh is full of knowledge when it comes to the images people see of flyers and band tees. In fact, he is a huge fan of Danzig, but not because of the typical music reasons, but because he is a fantastic graphic designer and is big reason for some of the Misfits. School Drugs has some cool shows on the horizon and have seen organic growth over the past year or so. Keep a look out for this New Jersey band!