Pants OFF! Podcast

Aric Improta is one the more prolific, contemporary drummers defying conventions. He plays drums in hard rock outfit FEVER333 as well as aggressive instrumental trio Night Verses. When he isn't touring or recording in bands; he's making unique drum videos, experimenting with new sounds, and drawing very detailed pieces of art. His innovative approach to playing drums is redefining perceptions. He continues to push it to realms never attempted before by exploring different ways to play and even different parts of the drum kit to incorporate. Combining his boundary pushing style with his visual art and intense physical performances have Aric influencing a new generation of avant garde drummers and artists alike.

Andy Hall has been a mainstay of Iowa rock radio air waves for the past two decades. He is the music director and mid-day host for prominent Iowa hard rock station Lazer 103.3. Andy has tirelessly worked to make the station the success it has become having survived the late 90's beefs with rival stations, the triumphs and failures of now defunct Lazerfest, and the constant changes to region's musical tastes. From moving to Des Moines by way of Minnepolis, to being temporarily homeless, to interviewing Metallica at their HQ in San Francisco - Andy has undoubtedly done a lot and continues to contribute to Iowa music.

Bo Becker can be called many things: musician, producer, videographer, clothing line designer...guy, among other things. His versatility no knows bounds. Growing up in Marshalltown, IA helped fuel his creative gas tank and he doesn't take it for granted. Neither do his hometown peers, as he was recruited to play guitar for the revered Modern Life is War in the spring of 2018. On top of his work in other bands (Land of Blood & Sunshine, Idolist), he has come into his own producing video pieces under the name Transpiritus. He has recently spent many hours producing the well received web series, upstairs IOWA. A series highlighting unique performances and interviews with a crop of Iowa based musicians, upstairs IOWA seasons 1 & 2 can be viewed on YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook.

Javi Rodriguez is a drummer, a hockey player, marine, hesher but ultimately more than any one label. He's seen his pitfalls and triumphs from serving in combat, overcoming the dark days of alcoholism, drumming in punk and doom bands, to raising a family. He migrated from Sioux City to Des Moines 8 years ago. He has fondness for both the city of his roots and the one of his future. His band Blood Spell recently released their first ep which is available NOW on cassette and bancamp.

Mark Engles is the guitar player for hard rock break out band Black Map and also a founding member of bay area prog rockers, Dredg. The past four years had seen Black Map contiually gain ground with rock audiences opening lengthy tours for Nothing More, Chevelle, & Bush. Now after a long hiatus, Dredg is in the early process of re-grouping which Mark sheds a little light on. Steve Mazur has played guitar for Canadian rock royalty, Our Lady Peace for almost two decades. The American born Mazur went from struggling L.A. session player to seasoned arena rocker since joining the band which has seen him travel all over the world playing for throngs of adoring fans. When he's not busy with OLP happenings, he busies himself at his home studio scoring music for TV shows like modern family.

The Host Country's Diana Weisharr and Ty Wistrand have been writing and performing their brand of indie-blues-folk all over Iowa for the better part of a decade. They started off humbly as duo for many years until expanding into a full band upon the release of their 2014 album "Walk Away". They have all but shed the stripped down folk sensibilities in favor of the bigger full band sound and dynamics which has freed them creatively, not feeling constrained to any genre. The Host Country's latest self-titled record is available on bandcamp and spotify.

Jordan Peterson is the guitarist and architect of straight edge hardcore outfit, Too Pure To Die. During the mid 2000's Jordan led a rotating roster of band mates across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Their relentless touring left pits of devastation in their wake. Jordan tells all in detail for the first time; the outrageous and complex story of Too Pure to Die that involves many players, accomplishments, missteps, grittiness, and bad luck. However, Jordan and Too Pure still have a lasting legacy in hardcore and are braving the water yet again as they are set to return after a decade absence in 2018.

Matt Schmitz, the ex-Former Thieves front-man turned seasoned tour manager comes by and chats about his impressive journey from humble Cedar Falls beginnings to world traveler. Former Thieves spent a number of years relentlessly touring, building a strong following in hardcore circles across the country. After the band split in 2012, Matt found himself drawn back to the road, albeit this time on the other side of the curtain. He has become a respected tour manager having worked a number of big names and up and comers. Matt's experiences being both performer and manager, gives a unique perspective of someone who is well traveled and knows that at times it's never the easiest road to navigate.

B. Well is a Des Moines based hip hop artist who has come on strong the past few years building an impressive following and having massive turn outs at his shows across Iowa. About 5 years into developing his craft, he is readying his second album in trilogy of records all connected through various themes of his own life experiences dealing with relationships and social commentary. He and his team of creatives in Highzmen Records and Soul Child Productions are dedicated to creating audio and visual art of the highest standard and integrity. B. Well's new album, "The Hills" is available FREE to stream 1/27/18 on SoundCloud and YouTube.

Born Wild is the rambunctious monthly dance party hosted by Jeff Eaton (DJ 810, Modern Life is War), Richie Daggers (D.O.P.E.), and photographer Michael Watson. A diverse cross section of Des Moines nightlife has inhabited the party space at one point or another over the last 3 years just to dance all night or get their picture taken in the photo booth. However, this New Year's Eve (2017) marks the last Born Wild ever as the 3 party gang leaders go their separate ways. In this final interview, we talk about the party's inception and why so many gravitated to it.

Jessica Murtaugh sings for rock outfit, Kiriko. The Nebraska transplant found herself striking out on her own in Des Moines a few years ago and immediately got active in the music scene. He musical background and eagerness to perform saw her play brief stints in bands like Canby and Marcato. In her spare time, she volunteers for DMMC organizing events and YWRC helping other young women discover their own talents and aspirations. Kiriko is readying a spring release, and you can catch a sneak peak, exclusively on this episode!

Eric Nelson is the front man for Iowa pop rockers, Hold for Swank. Having lived all around central Iowa, Eric has unique perspective when it comes to playing around several key scenes in the state. Sometimes, he and his band mates were not always embraced with open arms, especially in Des Moines. However, he's taken in it all stride, still playing and making fun records for over 10 years. Hold for Swank's new album "The Stuff That Contradicts The Other Stuff" is available almost everywhere, NOW!

Spotlights is the sludge meets shoegaze brainchild of Mario and Sarah Quintero. Their 2016 record "Tidals" caught many by surprise and set them on the fast track of success. The Brooklyn, NY duo spent most of the past 2 years on the road supporting titans like the Deftones and Melvins. Their latest album, "Seismic" has been heavily praised by critics and fans alike establishing Spotlights as more than a passing trend. Over the past 20 years, Dälek have made their name in underground circles across the globe through relentlessness touring and out put of consistent material. Their experimental, hip hop/shoegaze, hybrid style not only opened doors by means of playing out with rap legends but some of metal's elite as well. Chameleons of genres, Dälek commands respect from their peers and audiences which is well deserved. Their new records; Spotlights's "Seismic" and Dälek's "Endangered Philosophies" are available everywhere via Ipecac Recordings

This FREE 25 track "mixtape" style compilation is comprised of songs from Iowa artists of a variety of genres, as well as "best of" interview segments from the first 3 years of the podcast. * indicates a previously unreleased track* For downloadable track-by-track version please visit bandcamp.com/pantsoffpodcast WARNING: Contains strong language and adult themes 1. “Take Yer Pants OFF!” – intro mix by Microwave Death 2. Ramona Muse Lambert (Ep. 36) – “Good Period Talk” 3. Ramona Muse Lambert – “Classic Case” 4. Luke Rauch (Ep. 74) – “Sci-Fi Bullsh*t” 5. Druids – “Capturing the Firemares” 6. Tripp Shelton (Ep. 60) – “I don’t identify with Black.” 7. Tripp Shelton – “Floral Funeral” * 8. Phil Young (Ep. 20) – “Ripping in Iowa” 9. TIRES – “04” 10. Nate Phillips (Ep. 2) – “A Way Better World” 11. Traffic Death – “Thirst” 12. Dan Tedesco (Ep. 18) – “Sacrificial Adventure” 13. Dan Tedesco – “I Didn’t Come Here To Get Mellow” 14. Markaus (Ep. 45) – “Reagan” 15. Markaus – “Barely Breathing” * 16. Courtney Krause (Ep. 72) – “My life is not clichés.” 17. Courtney Krause – “Hardwood Floors” 18. Jeff Roalson (Ep. 65) – “Rewards Through Action” 19. Halfloves – “Who are you?” * 20. Jay McDowell (Ep. 18) – “Permanent Coke Face” 21. Screamin’ Jay – “Promises” 22. Patrick Tape Fleming (Ep. 3) – “Worth Doing” 23. Gloom Balloon – “Octopus Hands” 24. Aeon Grey (Ep. 73) – “Why’s he still alive?” 25. Aeon Grey – “Cry For” * Original released June 6, 2017 All songs written and performed by credited artists. All rights reserved. Additional mixing and tracking by Griffin Landa at The Establishment Recording Studio in Des Moines, IA. Art design and layout by Kristy Rahm Curator and podcast segments produced by Brian Campos Thank you to everyone whose ever been involved with this project and your continued support for the last four years and going forward. Love your life. -B

Bruce James Bales is an independent filmmaker whose visual storytelling is making an impression across the Midwest. His company DEFT has produced music videos for many notable names in the Iowa music scene and has also produced a handful of short films. Bruce enlightens us on what drives him to create and express himself in the visual medium and how he only wishes to enhance the cultural direction of a budding art scene. His latest short film "OMW", is being toured at film fests across the country.

Erik Brown is the co-owner of Lefty's Live Music in Des Moines, IA. He's also a talented multi-instrumentalist playing in avant garde jazz-metal outfit, The MAW. We talk through Erik's incredible journey from growing up in the South, to spending time in prison where he was able to find himself and start a path to redemption. Today, he is optimistic about navigating the stormy waters of owning and booking his own club. An undertaking that at times may not be the most financially beneficial, but intangibly gratifying to both he and the music community.

The 10th edition 8035 Music Festival was packed with so much bad ass-ery in 2017, we could only fit in time to speak with a handful of the kick-ass ladies that graced the stages and worked behind the scenes: 8:20 - Elizabeth Moen (Iowa City, IA) is wowing audiences across the U.S. and Europe with her bluesy, jazzy, indy, soulful hybrid style. The momentum she has gained in her short time writing, recording, and performing is not so surprising after you see/hear her and become entranced with how ridiculously good she is. 30:38 - Mollie Piatetsky of Closet Witch (Keokuk/Muscatine/Burlington, IA) - The steadfast front-woman of the SE Iowa grindcore upstarts is a Jekyll and Hyde: so ferocious on stage and on record, yet so cheerful and personable off. 48:11 - Glitter Density (Des Moines, IA) - Louise Bequeaith and Catherine Lewin are growing up on the stages of 8035. The young ladies graduated from the kids' Gen-Z stage to playing the bigger stages while bringing their fans and fun brand of bubblegum pop rock with them. 56:19 - Lily DeTaeye (Des Moines) - This young singer/songwriter has been sharing her music with crowds around state since she was a young(er) woman. Baring her heart and soul in her songs, she remains undeterred by any obstacle put in front of her. 1:06:13 - Molly Brandt is the DMMC Advocacy Coordinator and heads the "Music for All Ages" initiative. She hopes to get the underage curfew ordinance (which forbids minors in most music venues in Des Moines after 9 PM) eliminated by informing and galvanizing the public into action.

Station 1 Records is a non profit record label based in Des Moines, Ia. More than just a label, Station 1 acts as an incubator for artist development whose hopes is more than just a future cash grab, but to help grow congruently with a vibrant music scene. We talk with founder and Executive director, Tobi Parks and Director of Operations Tom Kutz about their own musical upbringings, being Iowa transplants, previous (more lucrative) professions, the mission of the label, the infamous State of the Local Music Union forum of 2015, as well as what Station 1 hopes to achieve.

Patrick Tape Fleming (Gloom Balloon, Poison Control Center) returns to talk about life since his last one-on-one 3 years ago which has seen his life change dramatically in the form of having a child and recording a new record in that time. We talk about adjusting to father hood, Paul McCartney, Billy Corgan, Chuck Berry, cheeseburgers, inspiring the next generation for Iowa musicians, as well as all of his creative stock he emptied into the new and possibly last Gloom Balloon record "Drying the Eyes of the Goddess of Gloom" available September 1st via Maximum Ames Records. Hilarity abound.

Vincent Benett is the frontman for the Acacia Strain. For the past sixteen years, the New England collective have risen through the metal and hardcore ranks to now stand as one of its generals. Bennett paid his dues early on, starting out by playing basements and dives of Massachusetts. His forthright and self deprecating attitude is ammunition for bleak and dark lyrical content combined with crushing riffs is the band's crux. It is on full display on Acacia Strain's latest album, "Gravebloom" - available NOW via Rise Records. John Paul Pitts is the lead singer and songwriter for unwavering indie rockers, Surfer Blood. John sits down for a quick chat about growing up in south Florida, forming the band in art school, some of the high and lows of the bands storied career which could serve as a cautionary tale. Pitts has had his share of personal triumphs and woes over the past few years, but that has not impeded his resolve to keep the band going despite a few setbacks along the way. Surfer Blood's newest record, "Snowdonia" is out NOW on Joyful Noise.

In April of 2017, Des Moines indie rockers Foxholes recorded 3 songs in the Pants OFF! 'New York' studio. This fulfilled a vision that came to Pants OFF! Podcast host/producer Brian Campos in a dream. All 6 gathered in a cramped basement storage room one spring night and made a unique little performance piece. All songs written and performed by Foxholes Recorded and edited by Brian Campos Mixed by Ben Barndollar

In April of 2017, Des Moines indie rockers Foxholes recorded 3 songs in the Pants OFF! 'New York' studio. This fulfilled a vision that came to Pants OFF! Podcast host/producer Brian Campos in a dream. All 6 gathered in a cramped basement storage room one spring night and made a unique little performance piece. All songs written and performed by Foxholes Recorded and edited by Brian Campos Mixed by Ben Barndollar

In April of 2017, Des Moines indie rockers Foxholes recorded 3 songs in the Pants OFF! 'New York' studio. This fulfilled a vision that came to Pants OFF! Podcast host/producer Brian Campos in a dream. All 6 gathered in a cramped basement storage room one spring night and made a unique little performance piece. All songs written and performed by Foxholes Recorded and edited by Brian Campos Mixed by Ben Barndollar

Derek Muse Lambert is a man of many hats. He's a multi- instrumentalist, songwriter, artist, devoted family man, venue manager, and so on. Derek has played around Des Moines in bands like Ramona and the Sometimes, Slaughter House 6, Derek Lambert & the Prairie Fires, and Pure Gut. He also toured the country a number of times with Christopher Ford and Leslie and the Ly's. When he's not performing on stage, writing music with his wife (Ramona Muse Lambert), or spending time with his family; Derek manages many operations of the Vaudeville Mews. We talk about his number of his musical ventures, stand up comedy, his new solo record, as well as the new the Ramona and the Sometimes album available 7/22!

Andy Cusack has assisted in the booking of musical acts for the 8035 Music Festival since its inception in 2008. Over the last 10 years, he has helped book such bands like Run the Jewels, Wilco, Weezer, Flaming Lips and many others. Andy expounds upon the obstacles when it comes to booking bands for a music festival in a tertiary market like Des Moines in comparison to bigger fests in bigger cities with much bigger budgets. We also talk about growing up in the Chicago area, writing for Juice Magazine, musical projects, and being an early music podcast pioneer in Des Moines.

Matt Caughthran is the incomparable singer of L.A. punk rock band The Bronx and it's Latin flavored sister band, Mariachi El Bronx. Whether its tearing up basement punk clubs with Bronx or opening bigger arena shows with El Bronx - Matt and company have found a way to balance both reaching many people from a variety of backgrounds. We talk about striking that balance, as well as his early days growing up in East L.A., lineup changes, and some details about new the Bronx record due this fall! Ben Flanagan is the singer and bassist for Black Map. The bay area band has been busy since releasing their second album, "In Droves" last year. They've hit the road in the U.S. more than ever before touring with the likes of Chevelle and Bush. I chat with Ben about his days in early bands like The Actual and Trophy Fire, 90's comedy, Scott Weiland, signing with EOne Music, and future plans with Black Map.

Ryan Berrier is the drummer thrash metal crossover band, Green Death. Ryan has also been involved in some of the more prominent bands to come out of central Iowa playing drums for bands like Facecage, Index Case, and Marcato. He even toured the world as part of Corey Taylor's (Slipknot/Stone Sour) Junk Beer Kidnap Band. His experiences and insights have played an essential role in Green Death's journey having signed with Dave Ellefson's (Megadeth) EMP label group in 2015 and having played numerous sold out shows. The band is determined to write the epic next chapter of their on-going metal saga. Green Death's new ep, "Pure Torture" is available everywhere June 2nd!

Jessica Villegas is the bassist and sings back-ups for Des Moines indie rockers, Foxholes. She is a multi-versed instrumentalist who also plays guitar in all-female outfit Honeycreeper, as well as cello for depressing experimental art collective, Tree Branch Twig. Whether at a show any number of nights a week on stage in one of her many projects or just in attendance as fan, Jessica is an ardent scene supporter. We talk about her growing up around the country, ethnicity, art, early influences, and her reluctance to calling herself a "musician". Also featured on this episode is a P.O!.P. exclusive acoustic performance of Foxholes song "Sunny", off of their brand new album available at foxholesmusic.com.

Brian Campos has produced & hosted the Pants OFF! Podcast for the last three and a half years. He sits in the opposite chair on this, the centennial episode of the podcast as guest host Elliot Imes (Tyborn Jig) flips the script on Campos asking him all about his growing up on the Southside of Des Moines, early influences, and cutting his teeth in the music scene as part of cult rap group Unidentified Suspects in the early 2000's. They also go deep into Brian's long struggle with alcoholism which until getting sober 5 years ago, was partially the catalyst for the creation of the podcast. Pants OFF! Podcast continues to grow not only spotlighting homegrown talent, but national touring artists resolutely determined to get the word out there.

Zach Johnson is the guitarist for metal and hardcore outfit, The Ghost Inside. After a catastrophic bus accident in 2015 put TGI on indefinite hiatus, Zach has found himself home in Des Moines for the longest period of time in almost a decade having to undergo and recover from numerous surgeries and procedures. This is far cry from his fast paced life of recording records and relentless worldwide touring TGI had become known for. Prior to those unfortunate events, Zach spent his teens and late twenties, touring the country in pop punk band The Lifestyle, followed by a stint in the more prominent straight edge hardcore outfit, Too Pure to Die. We talk cutting his teeth in those formidable bands, gun avidity, life post accident, his continuing recovery, and the optimism of an eventual return to his life with The Ghost Inside again down the road.

Phil "Landphil" Hall is a thrash/punk/metal producer and musician. He has made his name recording and performing in such prolific bands like Municipal Waste, Iron Reagan, and Cannabis Corpse. Hailing from Richmond Virginia, Landphil's relentless work-rate when it comes to touring and producing has distinguished him from many of his peers in that he's able to duplicate success in multiple projects. Frankie Palmeri is the tenacious and contentious front-man of metalcore upstarts, Emmure. Over the years, controversy has followed Palmeri making him fodder for metal blogs and their comment sections. However, Frankie believes the checkered reputation of his younger days is behind him. He is determined to continue making progressive moves forward not just as an individual but with Emmure who he believes has now found its definitive lineup that will consistently deliver the pulverizing, archetypal sound that he has sought to attain.

Emanating Live! from the regionally famous Vaudeville Mews, listen to some poorly delivered distasteful jokes, as well as songs and interviews with some of the premier talent from different ends of the Des Moines musical spectrum. Tyborn Jig are a rock band whose members are veterans to the Des Moines music scene. We talk about that lineage, favorite animals, junkie sound guys, favorite/least favorite local bands of past, and new Tyborn record. Tha Füt are an up and coming hip/hop group who have gained momentum in the last year playing everywhere from punk squats to festivals. We chat about their formation, favorite superheroes, lemonade stands, and what they feel may need to change for the betterment of rap and hip/hop in the 515. Recorded and mixed by Phil Young at Wabi Sound Live mix by Javier Williams Art by Kristi Rahm Photo by Michael Watson

Marc Hogan is a highly respected music journalist whose credits for over a decade include Spin, Village Voice, NPR, Billboard and many others. However, over the years he's been most prominent at indie darling publication, Pitchfork Magazine where he is now a Senior Writer. We sit down with Marc to talk about his lowly beginnings cranking out many-a-review to working his way through the ranks over the years. We also chat about his growing up on the west coast, landing in Iowa, National Endowment of the Arts, Will Farrell, vinyl vs. cassette, and his most anticipated records for 2017.

Brooks Strause is a revered singer/songwriter who for years has made records and toured relentlessly, all the while gaining many accolades of fans and critics. Strause's stripped down approach to writing and performing is return to a form of music made in the earlier half of the 20th century. A style refined from when he was a member of the country/folk/blues/doom collective, Old Scratch Revival Singers. Not so much a regression, more like keeping an older style contemporary in a time where technology and overproduction has become all too common practice. We also talk about his early 90's alternative rock influences, touring, LSD therapy, his distaste of capitalism in relation to music/art, depression, nihilism, death, and other warm & fuzzy topics.

Long time pals, Ross Clark & Dustin Smith return to the podcast to debut a new track for a new collaborative musical concept. Not a band per-say, but an ongoing project which serve as an incubator for musical ideas and expression. They talk in depth about how the dynamic works, as well as what they wish to achieve in hopes that it can inspire others. We also mix it up about their growing up South side, their time spent learning and playing in NYC, future plans for their 150 other projects, donkey semen, Industry Talk (aka 'STRY Talk), among other tomfoolery. Two pros who are dedicated and serious about their craft, but not so much when it comes to anything else....just how we like it.

Cory Brandan is the front man of renown metal & hardcore stalwarts, Norma Jean. Norma Jean's storied history began in the southern U.S. in the late 90's and quickly cemented their place in christian HXC circuits. Overtime, founding members have exited band but Cory (who joined in 2004) has remained unwavering, helping the band evolve into a multilayered collective with intricate songwriting and melodies. We talk about his growing up in a rich Arkansas music scene, the legacy of the Almighty Norma Jean, and the dark vibes he tapped in to when writing their recent album, Polar Similar, out now via Solid State Records. England's Dinosaur Pile Up are breaking out and commanding audiences everywhere they go with their stripped down, straight forward rock. DPU are road vets who through tireless touring across Europe and America playing arenas alongside some heavy hitters, have begun to see their fan base steadily growing. I talk with Matt, Mike, and Jim about their 90's influences, life on the road, upcoming festival runs, favorite American television shows, their recent album 11:11, and more.

Ladd Askland is a booker/talent buyer who has hosted hundreds of shows at venues across the Des Moines area for the better part of 15 years. A majority of that time has been spent as the main talent buyer for the Vaudeville Mews where he has been since 2003. He began his venture in high school where he made many connections all over the country working with acts that went on to national acclaim as well as legends rolling through in the twilight of their careers. Ladd distinguishes himself as a booker rather than a promoter which he feels are both very different. His view from behind the scenes gives him an interesting and experienced perspective of Des Moines music.

The two most popular Pants OFF! guests return to tag team and lay the smack down on the podcast; Gloom Balloon's Patrick Tape Fleming and Pavement's Bob Nastanovich. The two long time amigos dish about everything from scars, heroin ghouls, Butthole Surfers, possible business ventures, businesses Bob hates, death birds, Pavement's Hall of Fame status, PCC, jockey dicks, Michael Stipe's dick and more non-dick related topics. This one is a triple crown winner.

Daphne & the Mystery Machines from Tennessee have quickly made a name for themselves touring up and down the southeast and Midwest. Their quirkiness is balanced by dark themes and tones. Playfulness can soon turn to sorrow with singers Daphne Culver and Jenn Palmer playing off each others strengths. With a tour of Europe scheduled for 2017, the band are determined to trudge forth and make their mark in the Americana / Folk genre. Lindsay Keast is the current outreach coordinator for the Des Moines Music Coalition (DMMC). She oversees many day to day operations of the non-profit and organizes many of their prominent events like Music U and Little Big Fest. She has stepped up to the plate and is still finding her footing in a rich music scene that has its fair share of revelers and critics. In her limited down time, Lindsay writes, records and performs in all female indie rock outfit, Honeycreeper as well as her ongoing avante garde, experimental project, Tree Branch Twig. Honeycreeper's debut ep is available NOW on bandcamp.

Oathbreaker is an emerging Belgium band who are jolting audiences with their melding aspects of black metal, hardcore, & shoegaze to create a dark, intense yet beautiful sound. We talk with Gilles Demolder (guitar) and Caro Tanghe (vocals) about their childhood friendship which evolved into a musical partnership through their passion and involvement in the Belgian hardcore scene. We also talk about their groundbreaking new record, "Rheia" available NOW through Deathwish Inc. Birds in Row are a hardcore band from Laval, France. Their roots in DIY hardcore & punk equipped them to travel the underground circuits for the last handful of years cultivating a dedicated following around the world. Birds' desire to be recognized as body of work rather than its individual members commands that only the art they are creating be the only focal point which drives the band above all else. Their latest ep, "Personal War" is available via Deathwish Inc.

Paige Harpin is jazz singer / songwriter who has played the rounds of Des Moines for the last handful of years. Whether its a lounge, restaurant, patio, or pub; she is supported by a rotating cast of talented musicians playing her mix of R & B infused jazz under the banner, Paige Harpin Group. A few years ago she was also a regular player singing backups in Dustin Smith and the Sunday Silos. From teaching music to kids, to raising a family, Paige has brought her vibrant personality and fusion flavor to Des Moines music. Her new album, "How Do You Love?" is available 11/23 on Bandcamp & Spotify!

Angle is an emcee/rapper who has 15 years experience writing, recording and performing. While the Des Moines area has been his home on and off most his life, Angle has traveled the country perfecting his craft. His impressive discography includes 9 self releases. Despite a distinguished resume', he is often left in the outer rim of Des Moines music circles. However, this is not bothersome or unfamiliar to the veteran rapper, who for most of his career has been proving himself lyrically on records and stages for almost two decades with no signs of slowing down. His newest album, "Talkin' Story" is available NOW on bandcamp & iTunes!

Nick Vasquez plays keyboards in Quad City funk/soul/blues band, The Candymakers. After taking first place in the 2011 Iowa Blues Challenge, Candymakers have been busy playing consistently across the Midwest shaking up dance floors with their contemporary twist of R&B and funk. Nick's roots start in Des Moines where he played percussion in a few projects. It wasn't until he attended college in Davenport where he studied composition that he became a serious keyboardist for prominent blues/funk/jam outfits in the QC area. Now commuting between central & eastern Iowa, you are bound to see Nick on stage in the handful of bands he currently plays in.

TJ Wood is a recognizable figure of Des Moines music. In recent years he's served as a bartender at Vaudeville Mews and The Lift. But besides his assistance running venues and curating shows, he is also a drummer known for his stints in bands Skin of Earth, Christ Puncher, and the heralded post hardcore outfit, Feathers Are Beautiful. We recount his days playing in various bands as well as his time working at legendary punk rock bar, Hairy Mary's. During his time working the iconic establishment, he saw his fair share of fights and general weirdness. While TJ has been off stage for some time, don't count him out as you may see him behind the drums yet again in the near future.

Buzz Osborne is front man for legendary rock outfit, The Melvins. For the past 30 years, King Buzzo and company have consistently put out numerous records and toured incessantly all over the world. While Melvins have largely gone unrecognized by mainstream media and audiences for most of their career, it has never once bothered the underground icon. He prefers to play for his true, faithful audiences and make the music he wants to make while not catering to trends or desires of industry types. One of the most influential bands on the planet, it is hard to name any rival or peer group of The Melvins. Keith Rich is the drummer for breakout Des Moines sludge-metal collective, Druids. From a young age, Keith started jamming in bands all around central Iowa. He has played in many groups over the years and toured around the world with psychedelic rockers, Radio Moscow as well as San Diego pop punkers, My American Heart. While his past resume' is impressive, its these days in Druids that he is more dedicated than ever to create and explore his true potential behind the drum kit. If Druids remains focused turning out quality records and grinding as they have been, it is no doubt more success will come to fruition.

John Eich is a founder and guitarist of revered hardcore & punk outfit, Modern Life is War. Eich was born and raised in Marshalltown, Iowa where he picked up guitar in his adolescence. He cut his teeth in playing in bands prominent to the area like Safety Second, and My Pet Robot. John's humble attitude towards his success in music is endearing considering MLIW's countless world tours and accolades bestowed on them over the years regarding their place in contemporary hardcore. We also talk; early inspirations, social media disdain, life on and off the road, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as well as the current status of MLIW and rumors of a new record.

Nate Logsdon is the front man of municipal Ames collective, Mumford's. He is also a co-founder of blossoming indie record label, Maximum Ames Records. Since his youth, Nate's passion for music has seen him go from school band enthusiast to torchbearer for live music in Central Iowa. Whether it's performing in one of his many projects on stage, curating events, or just taking in a performance as a fan; Nate is a fixture at most major music events in the area. He is a principle director for Maximum Ames Music Festival which is held annually in Ames, Ia showcasing a wealth of local and national acts across multiple venues. MAMF 6 is taking place this year September 15th-18th. Go to maximumames.com for more details.

We take a road trip to eastern Iowa, out to the Camp Euforia Music Festival held in Lone Tree, Ia now in its 13th year. For three days annually, the festival celebrates music from the jam, bluegrass, funk, indie, & worldbeat genres. Attendees gather from all over the country to see up & comers as well as established veterans grace their stages set among scenic farmland. On this episode we get a chance to hear from: Crystal City (Iowa City Heartland Rock) - 6:45 Dickie (Americana/Folk/Pop cross over) - 18:27 Have Your Cake (Cake tribute band from Quad Cities) - 35:14 Kris Lager Band (Funk & Blues revival rock from Omaha, Ne)- 50:36 Euforquestra's Mike Tallman & Austin Zaletel (Camp Euforia founders) - 101:42

Chris Robyn is the drummer for rock super group, Black Map. He was also a former member of Sacramento cult alt-rock legends, FAR. FAR went largely unrecognized during the 90's cutting their teeth with bands like Deftones and Incubus. It was only after their break up in 1999, that they gained notoriety in many underground circles. Apart from playing briefly in projects over the years like Milwaukee, Crosses, and the FAR reunion in 2010, Chris had been mostly absent from playing music. Instead, he had decided to go to law school and practice law in California. It wasn't until Ben Flanagan (Trophy Fire) and Mark Engles (dredg) came calling in 2013 that he was back off to the races in Black Map touring across the U.S. and Europe gaining followers of their former stables, and new ones alike. They are currently recording a follow up to their critically received album, "...And We Explode", due out in 2017!

Day two of our time spent in our booth at the 2016 edition of the 80/35 Music Festival in downtown Des Moines, where we had a chance to do some quickie interviews with a variety of musicians performing at this years' fest. Such an amazing time! In this episode we hear from: Markaus - 8:49 Trevor Polk (Halfloves)- 19:13 Kyler VK & James Brittenson (Goldblums, Medium Penis)- 30:12 Ryan Berrier (Green Death) - 39:48 MaZoo - 51:00

Day one of our time spent in our booth at the 2016 edition of the 80/35 Music Festival in downtown Des Moines, where we had a chance to do some quickie interviews with a variety of musicians performing at this years' fest. Such an amazing time! In this episode we hear from: Courtney Krause & Dylan Boyle - 4:44 Chris Marshall (Tires, Easy Fruit) - 18:52 Harold Davis Jr. (FRO) - 25:51 Holy White Hounds - 37:59