Podcasts about car con carne

Nickole Regala, Sophia Williams, and Frankie Sripada of the bluesy, psychedelic, raw and authentic, band Daisychain join me for a chat just days before their album release show (6/20) at Sleeping Village and a week in advance of the release of the new album, “All in a Name.” This one was recorded outside local treasure Reed’s Local in Avondale, and we talked about: -The just-concluded tour, and the problematic hotel bathroom they had to negotiate around. -Their reverence for 70s sounds - don’t confuse it for a rubber stamp appreciation for all of that decade’s bullshit. -Frankie’s preparatory loin-girding. -Does a band that sounds like it was made for vinyl appreciate vinyl? -Recording with the iconic Sylvia Massey. -The new songs, loaded with everything from garage rock realness to Rush-inspired prog moments. -The song “G String”: Is it about a guitar string or underpants? -The “slam dunk” on the new album. -Why antique malls rule. See and support Daisychain at Sleeping Village on 6/20! Can’t make it? Buy (or at least stream) the album on 6/27! ## Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation is a local business, headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, that delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered. Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. And also follow 90daysinthe90s on Instagram for tons of Chicago scene & alternative music related content ## TAG PUBLICITY is a Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital marketing, social media management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking and public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG and TikTok!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode sees the return of drummer, Mark Esses, who's behind the kit for super-cool bands like Downstait, Night Spice and Flowers for Dorian. We met at El Vado, a Mexican restaurant in McHenry, and we chatted about: Balancing Multiple Projects: Besides being the drummer in a bunch of bands, Mark Esses also keeps busy as a D.J. We talk about how he manages his time and creative energy across all these endeavors. Pro Wrestling Music: Mark shares the story of how he was recruited into Downstait after the singer saw him perform and they bonded over a shared love of pro wrestling. We dig into the process of creating entrance themes for wrestlers and Mark's passion for the sport. Band Dynamics: We touch on the 20th anniversary of his band Flowers for Dorian and the longevity of band relationships. Mark also mentions the story-driven concept behind his band Night Spice, which even has an accompanying comic book. The Creative Drive & Collecting: While eating tacos during a sudden downpour, we bond over the "collector's mindset." I talk about my record collection, while Mark talks about his passion for collecting Batman, wrestling, and other pop culture memorabilia, including a story about having to start his collection over after a flood. Marc has a lot going on, and we barely scratched the surface! Support his projects at marcesses.com! ## Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation is a local business, headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, that delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered . Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device . Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. And also follow 90daysinthe90s on Instagram for tons of Chicago scene & alternative music related content ## TAG PUBLICITY is a Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital marketing, social media management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking and public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG and TikTok!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taste of Randolph returns this weekend (June 13-15) for its 28th year! The event happens at ground zero for food in Chicago: Randolph Street, between Peoria and Racine. To preview this year’s event, I sat down with Julie Darling (West Loop Community Organization President) at Hide+Seek (838 W. Randolph), a standout Randolph St. restaurant that offers a “creative American shared plates menu (incorporating) touches from Spain, France, and Italy.” Also joining in the conversation are Mark Rose, frontman for Spitalfield, the band headlining the Q101 PIQNIQ Stage (West Stage) on Saturday night. We talk about the band’s new music (Play+Record) - the first new songs we’ve heard from them in a very, very long time. I say it in the interview, but it’s worth repeating in this space: “I Can’t Stop” may be the most hooky song Mark’s ever written. As a bonus, we’re also joined by Sean Mulroney. Not only is he the owner of Double Door (new location opening in 2026), he’s also in One for The Ditch, who are playing the PIQNIQ stage on Saturday afternoon! We had amazing food and a fantastic conversation. See you this weekend on Randolph St. - wear sensible shoes and sunscreen. ## Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation is a local business, headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, that delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered . Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device . Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. And also follow 90daysinthe90s on Instagram for tons of Chicago scene & alternative music related content ## TAG PUBLICITY is a Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital marketing, social media management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking and public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG and TikTok!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Almost exactly one year ago, I visited Noon Whistle’s Lombard Brewpub (800 E. Roosevelt) to understand why they were serving cicada-infused Malort. Sure enough, they got me again. Garlic Butterlört has arrived. In the brewery’s promotional copy, it’s described as “bringing big ‘better ingredients, questionable decisions’ energy. Rich, buttery goodness meets roasted garlic and herbs, with that unmistakable bitter kick that says, ‘maybe I do want another slice or just literally anything to get this taste out of my mouth.’ “It’s smooth. It’s garlicky. It’s bold. And yes—it’s the ultimate pizza crust dipper. You’ve had the garlic butter cup... but it's time to grow up little one. Garlic Butterlört is here, and it didn’t come to play. Don't ask for the parm rim.” Obviously, there’s a lot more to talk about when it comes to Noon Whistle after ten years of business, serving both the Naperville and Lombard communities. For this episode, I’m back at Noon Whistle with my spirit animal, Marketing Director Joey Giardiniera, to talk about Noon Whistle’s latest alcoholic chimera and all the other things, specifically: -Noon Whistle's unique beer offerings, including the new collab with the Morton Arboretum. -Connecting with younger demographics as so much of the talk lately is on how 20-somethings aren’t drinking like their elders once did. -Lower ABV: Is it the new battleground? -The amazing food at Noon Whistle, specifically their pizzas. -Events at Noon Whistle: Should I host a music trivia night? ## Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation is a local business, headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, that delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered . Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device . Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. And also follow 90daysinthe90s on Instagram for tons of Chicago scene & alternative music related content ## TAG PUBLICITY is a Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital marketing, social media management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking and public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG and TikTok!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The second live Car Con Carne event at Legit Dogs + Ice (322 S. Randall Road, South Elgin) happened on 5/15/25. Appearing at the event, and on this episode: Karen Shook, Carson from Obscurity Brewing, Aaron Williams, comedian Chris Bongat, Derision Cult and unannounced guest Sincere Engineer. In addition to being interviewed, Karen Shook, Aaron Williams and Derision Cult each performed two songs. For the music performances, please watch the full-length video (or specific song clips) on YouTube. Here’s what they played: Karen Shook “Let the Rain” “Dopamine” Aaron Williams “You and I Can” “Forgive and Let Go” Derision Cult “Radiation Blues”“Warning Signs” Thanks to all my guests for showing up on the night of a tornado watch and severe storm warning to be part of the show. Thanks also to Legit Dogs + Ice for the hospitality (and for the Widow Maker burger - I’m still here!). ## Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation is a local business, headquartered in Aurora, Illinois, that delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered . Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device . Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## TAG PUBLICITY is a Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital marketing, social media management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking and public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG and TikTok!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bellhead (Karen Righeimer and Ivan Russia) is a favorite of mine. The post-punk duo continues to take massive evolutionary steps forward with each new release; the new EP, “Threats,” is their finest moment yet. Rather than meet in my car, I invited Bellhead over to do an interview in my backyard (they’re like family at this point). My fire pit was a bit … suffocating … as we chatted, but we still managed to have a great chat. To make sure the conversation flowed, Karen brought samples of her homemade mead for us to enjoy as we sat out in the 50-degree Midwestern spring weather. Best bootlegged booze I’ve had in ages. We talked about the new EP, Spinal Tap, steampunk, the reality of touring, running into Martin Atkins (Pigface, PiL) in an unlikely place, whether this is their “Americana” moment, and some of the “Threats” reviews so far. If you’re new to Bellhead, this is a great way to jump in. If you’re just a fan of musicians being authentic, candid and fun, you’re also going to love this episode. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## TAG PUBLICITY is a Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital marketing, social media management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking and public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG and TikTok!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

El Bisonte is a spectacular bass and drum instrumental duo (Henry Ignacio - bass and sounds; Blake Lowery - drums) from Louisville, Kentucky. I caught up with them last weekend before they headlined “Goatstock” in Norridge, and we talked about: *Their take on Chicago *Louisville’s most famous haunted attraction *How Henry gets “upskirted” at live shows *What storytelling in song means for an instrumental band *Why they sat on “Buried Beneath the Rubble” for so long ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## TAG PUBLICITY is Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital Marketing, Social Media Management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking, public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG, TikTok ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Featuring music from Aaron Williams, Karen Shook and Derision Cult, comedy from Chris Bongat, and craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m hanging with UR Mom for this episode. Me and UR Mom have a lot to get into, including the just-announced Summerfest date! Maura Wolf (vocals, rhythm guitar), Tommy Hinds (guitar) and Alex O’Malley (drums) joined me to talk about the band’s beginnings and the speedy word-of-mouth that’s encircling the band. More impressive, they conducted the interview without the invaluable assist of bassist Andrew Vucsko-Cameron! ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## TAG PUBLICITY is Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital Marketing, Social Media Management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking, public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG, TikTok ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Featuring music from Aaron Williams, Karen Shook and Derision Cult, comedy from Chris Bongat, and craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afrofuturistics is “A Chicago Collective of Horns, Bass, Hip Hop Beats” They’re jazz. They’re hip hop. They’re somewhere in between and everywhere around those edges. I met Eric Oldman and Keith Wakefield from the band outside Goat Village (4701 N. Cumberland) to chat as their band is taking off. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## TAG PUBLICITY is Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital Marketing, Social Media Management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking, public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG, TikTok ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Featuring music from Aaron Williams, Karen Shook and Derision Cult, comedy from Chris Bongat, and craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stavros from the Atlas Moth is back for his 4th appearance on Car Con Carne - it’s been over four years, so we were overdue for a chat. The first thing you may notice in this episode is how easy the conversation is between the two of us. Besides Stavros being a natural and funny conversationalist, we have a lot in common: music, comics, horror, vinyl collecting. Lots of common ground there. We talk about why the Atlas Moth has been dead silent for the past five years, and Stavros reveals the plans for an upcoming covers EP. You won’t believe the artists they’re covering! We also talk about Stavros’s new band, Motherless, set to release an album in September. The entire conversation took place at the unlucky-looking Talisman Center in Glenview, specifically outside the Works Grill, home of some of the area’s best gyros (no lie). This chat’s a little longer than usual, but I swear it’s a fun one. Thanks for checking it out! ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## TAG PUBLICITY is Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital Marketing, Social Media Management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking, public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG, TikTok ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. Doors – 6:30 p.m.Showtime – 8:30 pm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Post-hardcore trio With Patience release their debut album, “Triptych,” on Friday, 5/9. In advance of that, guitarist/vocalist Chris Wade and bassist/vocalist Lance Curran join me on the lakefront in Rogers Park to talk about the band and album. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## TAG PUBLICITY is Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital Marketing, Social Media Management, project management, distribution, content creation, booking, public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG, TikTok ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. Doors – 6:30 p.m.Showtime – 8:30 pm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s hard to be in a bad mood after a Save Ferris show. They are simply a fun band to see live, and their shows are a great way to kinda forget all the (looks around) madness going on in the world. That was reinforced on Saturday, August 26, when Save Ferris returned to Chicago to kick off their “Get Dancing” tour at Chop Shop (2033 W. North). I sat down with frontwoman Monique Powell after the show to talk about: Launching the tour specifically in Chicago The topic of aging in music, something she brought up during the Save Ferris performance My local “SPAM” sighting on Elston Avenue The spooky vibes of “Lights Out in the Reptile House” Debuting the single “Get Dancing” on stage in Chicago The current slow drip of singles … what’s it leading up to? The approaching 30th anniversary of Save Ferris’ breakthrough album, “It Means Everything” The adorable Save Ferris circle pit Save Ferris will be on the road for the majority of 2025. Don’t miss out! ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It’s the ultimate novel about the ’90s and Chicago’s music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## TAG PUBLICITY is Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital Marketing, Social Media Management, project management, distribution, content creators, booking, public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG, TikTok ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams Band, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a historic first for the podcast: The cast of the beloved (and rapidly-growing) Spectral Silhouette Radio Show performs a scene created exclusively for Car Con Carne. What is the Spectral Silhouette? Before the performance, I had a great chat with Henry Scherer, the mad genius behind the concept, to learn more. Watch for ticket info on their next live performance, happening at Center Stage Theater in Naperville on May 31! This episode was recorded at one of my absolute favorite places, Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge (8102 Lemont). Appearing in the car for this episode: Colleen Wild (Penny Aster) Paul Slayton (Monty Eldritch) Walter Piper (Sil) Brian Dixon (Blackguard) This was crazy fun to do, and I hope you enjoy listening/watching! Normal and paranormal beware … ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It’s the ultimate novel about the ’90s and Chicago’s music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## TAG PUBLICITY is Music & Event Publicity company that is freshly distinctive. TAG PUBLICITY is a full service entertainment PR, talent development, branding, digital Marketing, Social Media Management, project management, distribution, content creators, booking, public relations company currently headed by Evan J. Thomas - You can reach out to Evan anytime for any of your PR needs to EvanJThomasPR@gmail.com Follow TAG Publicity on Facebook, IG, TikTok ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams Band, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. Doors – 6:30 p.m.Showtime – 8:30 pm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

FITZGERALDS (6615 Roosevelt in Berwyn) is, without a doubt, one of my favorite places to see music and simply hang out. The vibe is always chill, and the bookings are fantastic. Beyond that, the building is historic! FITZGERALDS was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Park Service at the end of last year. In advance of the plaque dedication on May 3, co-owners Will Duncan and Jess King jumped in the car to talk about the storied history of FITZGERALDS, as well as its impact on the local and music communities. Adding the “Carne” to this episode is BABYGOLD BARBECUE, the killer restaurant that’s part of the FITZGERALDS campus. Will and Jess brought a massive sampler of the BABYGOLD menu into the car, and we did our best to make our way through it. Chef Steve Domanik is doing amazing things over in Berwyn… Can’t make it to the plaque dedication? You’ll see it afterward when you go to any upcoming show at FITZGERALDS. See you at the American Music Festival? Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams Band, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. It starts at 8:30 pm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Threadless - the online artist community and design marketplace - is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Founder and CEO Jake Nickell joins me for char dogs at Poochie’s (a favorite for hot dog fans north of the city) and talks about the company’s history, his leadership role, and why he celebrates the weird designs. Discussed in this episode: Starting Threadless with $1000 and an idea Jake’s comfort in being a leader, and his leadership style Big mistakes (or, more euphemistically, learning opportunities) along the way Why Threadless’s success required marketing legend Seth Godin to be fired The value of remote/hybrid work Jake’s thoughts on AI, relative to the business of Threadless Growth plans for the next 5 years The impact of tariffs on business I say it early on in the interview, but Jake is not your typical CEO. He’s literally a dude you’d want to eat a hot dog with … who just happens to run one of the coolest, most influential, online businesses of the past 25 years. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It’s the ultimate novel about the ’90s and Chicago’s music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin – 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams Band, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. Doors – 6:30 p.m.Showtime – 8:30 pm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m joined for this episode by Carla Harvey, who we first came to know through her 15-ish years with the band she co-founded, Butcher Babies. At the beginning of this year, she announced that she’s the new “Acid Queen” in Lords of Acid, with a tour and album to follow. As I describe early in the episode, Lords of Acid fuses acid house, industrial, techno, pop smarts and taboo-shattering sexuality. It’s a devastatingly great combo. Carla talks about how she became part of the Lords collective and how it’s a dream come true; she’s been a fan for decades. She also talks about the artistic journey awaiting us from her new band, the Violent Hour, which is revving up as I type this. Finally, we discuss her career as a grief counselor and end-of-life specialist, specifically diving into the topic of mental health and its importance to musicians and other nocturnal creatures. Beyond Lords of Acid and the Violent Hour, Carla’s also getting married this year. Given the fact that her plate is super full, I was thrilled that she took time out to talk with Car Con Carne. See Lords of Acid in Chicago at Bottom Lounge on June 7! ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams Band, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. Doors - 6:30 p.m. Showtime - 8:30 pm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comasoft, the “gothy little rock band from Chicago,” is back! Jay and Chris jump in the car to talk with me about the band's history and future plans. Actually, Chris joined us for the last few minutes, but we were glad to have him regardless. Comasoft’s new EP, “Gather at the End,” comes out on Friday 4/25 and they’ll be celebrating that night with a show at Cobra Lounge. After time away, Comasoft is back in full swing. It’s a good time to wear black in Chicago. Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Aaron Williams, Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. It starts at 8:30 pm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recorded at Siren Records, McHenry IL (3902 Main) on Record Store Day 2025 at 6:30 a.m. Siren Records owner Bill Linquist joins me for a conversation about this year’s RSD, as well as the impact RSD has on local record stores. Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. More to be announced! It starts at 8:30 pm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Writer, fundraiser and pizza pro John Carruthers of Crust Fund Pizza is a Car Con Carne favorite, and it was awesome to have him back in the car to talk about his new cookbook, “Super Pizza World.” I met him at his Crust Fund Pizza distribution point, the alley behind his house, where we shared one of his masterful “Royko” (sausage + hot giardiniera) tavern-style pizzas. We talked a lot about pizza basics, the fun and engaging presentation and content of the new book, and the persevering (and growing) business model of Crust Fund Pizza. Super Pizza World is a riot to read, and isn’t just for cooks - it’s funny, Chicago-centric and the sort of thing you’ll want to share with your friends. Order your copy here: https://hi-buddy.org/products/super-pizza-world Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. ## On Thursday, May 15, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Music from Karen Shook and Derision Cult. Comedy from Chris Bongat. Craft brewer Carson Souza from Obscurity Brewing. More to be announced! It starts at 8:30 pm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode was recorded live at Legit Dogs & Ice in South Elgin (322 S. Randall Road), and includes interviews with East Moon, artist Chris Pienta and comedian Joseph Christopher (who also does a live comedy set for this episode!) ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music sce ne, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pianist, composer, improviser and scenographer, Jean-François Alcolea met me on the roof of Reggie’s when he was in Chicago for his “Right in the Eye” multimedia event. I can’t do the “Right in the Eye” event justice with a description, but for general understanding, he and his fellow musicians provide scores and background for the films of Georges Méliès. It’s fascinating, immersive stuff - if you have the chance to see him in another city on this tour, I highly recommend this show. Jean-François and I talk about the birth of cinema, staging this sort of event and where creativity comes from. If you’re watching the video version, you can watch the weather go from bad to worse in mere minutes. I wrapped up the conversation shortly before the skies totally opened up on Chicago. Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## On Thursday, April 3, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at the soon-to-reopen Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Yeah, I know it’s a school night, but I’ll be featuring live performances and interviews with East Moon, Ricky Liontones Revue, Joseph Christopher and Chris Pienta! It starts at 8:30 pm. Doors at 7:30 - we start recording the podcast at 8:30. Hope to see you there. ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music sce ne, written by Andy Frye.Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Vinopal (Opal Vinopal, Local Motive, badcandy, wht.rbbt.obj) joined me for food and conversation outside Hey Nonny in Arlington Heights (10 South Vail Avenue/heynonny.com). The episode starts with an acoustic performance of the Opal Vinopal song “Speck in the Universe,” and then transitions to the food from Hey Nonny… lots of food! Cheese curds with IPA ranch? The Nonny Burger (2 Slagel Farm beef patties/aged cheddar/dijonnaise/bacon jam/ caramelized red onions, brioche)? Yes, please! We talked about all of Mike’s projects, including his new, very personal, Opal Vinopal songs. We also got caught up on Local Motive, badcandy and wht.rbbt.obj. See Local Motive at Hey Nonny on May 15! Speaking of Hey Nonny … what on earth does the name mean? In their words: Old English songs and verse use “Hey Nonny Nonny” to describe a state of cheerful bliss you feel as you let go of your cares. In Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, the song “Sigh No More” reminds women that “men were deceivers ever.” What to do about it? “Be you blithe and bonnie, converting all your sounds of woe into Hey Nonny Nonny.” We also love the Violent Femmes’ 1991 song “Hey Nonny Nonny” in which the singer tries to suppress his “wanton thoughts” inspired by a “beauty bathing” into . . . “Hey Nonny Nonny.” Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## On Thursday, April 3, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at the soon-to-reopen Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Yeah, I know it’s a school night, but I’ll be featuring live performances and interviews with East Moon, Ricky Liontones Revue, comedian Joseph Christopher and artist Chris Pienta! It starts at 8:30 pm. Doors at 7:30 - we start recording the podcast at 8:30(ish). Hope to see you there. ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye.Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“Goatstock” is a new festival set for Goat Village (4701 N Cumberland, Norridge) on Saturday, May 10. Organizers (and Goatstock performers) Jamie and Deb of 13 Monsters came on the podcast to talk about the 10+ bands playing the event, as well as how it came to be. Also jumping in the car for this episode is fellow podcaster Evan J. Thomas (Better Listen Up, Badass Radio Network)! ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## On Thursday, April 3, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at the soon-to-reopen Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Yeah, I know it’s a school night, but I’ll be featuring live performances and interviews with East Moon, Ricky Liontones Revue and more! It starts at 8:30 pm. Doors at 7:30 - we start recording the podcast at 8:30. Hope to see you there. ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian Case of FACS returns to Car Con Carne, not long after the release of the band’s incredible 6th album, “Wish Defense,” and before they play Thalia Hall on April 17. We talk about Steve Albini’s role in the recording, as “Wish Defense” was the last thing he worked on before his untimely passing last year. We also talk about the ambiguity of Brian’s lyrics, the cool sounds the band makes, and the fact that they recorded the songs live to tape - holy shit. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## On Thursday, April 3, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Yeah, I know it’s a school night, but I’ll be featuring live performances and interviews with East Moon, Ricky Liontones Revue and more! It starts at 8:30 pm. Doors at 7:30 - we start recording the podcast at 8:30. Hope to see you there.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m joined by the self-described “cutest band in Chicago,” CalicoLoco. Very recently, their album, “I Love Myself,” was picked as “Best Local Album of the Year” in the Chicago Reader’s “Best of Chicago” 2024 survey. Dani and Zeke from CalicoLoco joined me for empanadas from Cafe Tola on Southport, and we talked about: -What was it about the album that connected with people in the way it did? -Headlining Metro -The high price of candles -What it takes to get a place painted these days -Their meticulous approach to recording I hear a real joy and honesty in the songs CalicoLoco makes, and if this is your first go-round with the band, I think you’ll really enjoy “I Love Myself.” Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 ## On Thursday, April 3, join me for a live recording of Car Con Carne at the soon-to-reopen Legit Dogs and Ice in South Elgin - 322 S. Randall Road. Yeah, I know it’s a school night, but I’ll be featuring live performances and interviews with East Moon, Ricky Liontones Revue and more! It starts at 8:30 pm. Doors at 7:30 - we start recording the podcast at 8:30. Hope to see you there. ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Ninety Days in the 90s: A Rock N Roll Time Travel Story. It's the ultimate novel about the '90s and Chicago's music scene, written by Andy Frye. Join record store owner Darby on her trip back to 1990s Chicago as she jumps on the Grey Line to time travel back to her carefree twenties, soaking up all the pop culture and rock n roll nostalgia you could ever imagine. To learn more, go to 90daysinthe90s.com or pick it up on Amazon.com or wherever you buy books. And also follow 90daysinthe90s on Instagram for tons of Chicago scene & alternative music related contentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Violets is a new band bringing together players from Naked Raygun, the Methadones and Blood People: Aly Jados – vocals, guitar Bill Stephens – guitar Simon Lamb – guitar Fritz Doreza – bass, vocals Michael Soucy – drums As the band gets ready to play their 5th (!) show on 4/27 at Reggie’s (along with Riverboat Gamblers and the Evictions) and release their debut EP on 5/2, Aly, Bill and Simon joined me for a chat. As we sat outside Cobra Lounge, we talked about the band’s origins, how their previous musical experience informs this new band, and the four songs that make up their self-titled EP. Get in on this band now. They’re great. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chicago’s favorite hard-drinking, hard-partying, inspirers-of-bad-decisions, band is back. The Beer Nuts will play an early show on St. Patrick’s Day at Liar’s Club (with opening act One for the Ditch). Joining me to preview the show outside Liar’s Club are Joe Kelly, Lou Svitek and returning favorite Herb. Lou and Joe turned the episode into a potluck: Lou brought bags of fried shrimp from Frank’s Chicago Shrimp House and Joe brought pork chop sandwiches from Jim’s Original. Things went off the rails quickly, but that’s part of the Beer Nuts’ charm. If you’re looking for thoughtful, resonant music journalism, I promise this isn’t the episode for you. See Beer Nuts on 3/17 at Liar’s Club! ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

River Toussaint Rabbitte is the frontwoman of wht.rbbt.obj, a favorite artist of this podcast, and she’s getting ready to release a solo single called “Put Down For Love” - “a slow-burning Pop/R&B ballad that drips with passion, submission, and the intoxicating pull of obsession.” In short, it’s a whole vibe and a stunning piece of music. River joined me for a chat in front of Tuscan Market & Wine Shop (141 W Wing St, Arlington Heights, IL 60005), and Tuscan owner Tracy jumped in the back seat with a Tuscan Heat pizza (Basil Pesto Sauce, Smoked Gouda, Mozzarella, Italian Sausage and Hot Giardiniera) to share. The Tuscan Heat is a remarkably well-balanced slice of pizza. If you’re in the northwest burbs and looking for a perfect, friendly, chill place to enjoy a glass of wine or cold beer, Tuscan Market is your new place. In addition to talking about “Put Down for Love,” River and I talked about her provocative lyrics, a Car Con Carne “Easter egg” that I caught in a recent wht.rbbt.obj performance, the forthcoming wht.rbbt.obj vinyl release, her approach to vocals, and what’s next for wht.rbbt.obj. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is smooth. I sat down with Scott McGaughey (vocals) and Dylan Ryan (piano, synth, drums, string & horn arrangements) of the soft synth-pop Chicago band BRONZE for a conversation in the green room of beloved local venue The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia). Did I hear someone say Car Con Verde Quarto? Bronze will perform at the Hideout on Saturday, March 8, as part of this year’s Psych Fest. The second, self-titled, album from Bronze is absolutely delightful. Highly recommended for listening over a cold Bartles & Jaymes after a long day working at the mall. Kick off your Reeboks and enjoy. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This one is arguably best enjoyed in its video form (YouTube/Facebook). Over another delicious dinner from Byron’s (1701 West Lawrence), I’m joined by hypnotist Chris Jones and returning favorites Dr. Daryl Wilson (the Bollweevils) and Stubhy (Lucky Boys Confusion). Chris is performing at Zanies (Wells) on 3/18 and Zanies (Rosemont) on 3/30. As a preview of his shows, he convinces Daryl and Stubhy to try and get hypnotized on camera/mic! This was definitely a first for the podcast. If you’re curious, definitely see what Chris is all about when he’s at Zanies in March! (Special shout-out to Chris’s videographer Calvin, who got tucked all the way in the back of the car and only briefly seen and heard during the episode.) Speaking of Byron’s, they do catering, with both food drop off and live cooking options. Call Mike at 312-301-4886 or email byronschicago@gmail.com ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Something we see repeatedly is that the gift, thrill and occasional curse of music is passed down from parents to their kids … and that’s what we have on display for this episode. I’m joined for Episode 1024 by Brian Krumm (Great Crusades, Brian Krumm and his Barfly Friends) and his daughter, Hazel Krumm. Two years ago, Brian put out his first solo album (as Brian Krumm and his Barfly Friends), “Just Fade Away.” At the end of last year, his teenage daughter Hazel released a remarkably sophisticated 3-song EP called “Backroads.” I brought the two together to talk about music and family over dinner from Red Hot Ranch. What struck me the most is how much the two genuinely like each other. I mean, that’s how it should be, but you frequently hear family stories that are quite the opposite. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s cool shit happening in Lombard. For this episode, I led a chat with four interesting and amazing creatives: From the Unmasked Coven, a queer + neurodivergent-owned space: owners Sarah and Faeth. Also from Unmasked Coven: Jesse, the person behind the productions happening at the Unmasked Coven’s super cool DIY space, Basement of the Coven. Returning guest James the Boneless, who also happens to own the awesome Lombard vintage shop JL Vintage Odds and Ends. Fun fact: I bought a Judas Priest record and Micronauts comic from JL shortly before recording. We talk about the DIY scene happening in Faeth and Sarah’s downtown salon basement, James’s new record (and boneless arms), and whether it would be okay for me to go to one of the Coven of the basement shows (I’m an “IPA Dad,” so probably). Visit them all on the same Lombard block: Unmasked Coven: 5 S. Park Ave. JL Vintage Odds and Ends: 8 S. Park Ave. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyslexicon is the soul-searching and emotionally-driven creative outlet of multi-instrumentalist Dan Hart. It’s metal. It’s punk. It’s prog. It’s cool. Dan joins me just as the second Dyslexicon album, Dracula at Sea, is available for streaming. At one point during the conversation, I call him a “mad scientist” for the way he put together this remarkable album. He has a wonderful creative mind, and I really enjoyed talking with him. See Dyslexicon in their album release show at Beat Kitchen on 2/26! ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I love a good record store, and for this episode, I’m focused one of the greatest record stores in Chicago history: The Flip Side. The Flip Side: Where Chicago Rocked is a new book about the birth, innovation, success and eventual end of the Flip Side chain. To talk about the book, I’m joined by co-author Ken Churilla, who wrote the book with Flip Side owners Carl and Larry Rosenbaum, and Chicago radio legend Jeff Schwartz, who led industry-changing marketing efforts for the chain. If you were around for the Flip Side days, you may also know him as “Mr. Cheap.” We met at Scooby’s (4319 Prince St, Downers Grove, IL 60515), one of Jeff’s favorite places. Sure enough, he was right: Scooby’s fries are fantastic. If you’re interested in music, record stores, entrepreneurship, radio or creative thinking, you’re going to dig this episode. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m a sucker for broody, synthy, hooky post-punk, and that’s what you’ll get on the debut from Milwaukee band Seances. The album, “Power is a Phantom,” comes out on February 13th, and I’m joined for lunch by Eric Arsnow -singer, bassist, founder of Seances.We recorded outside Poochie’s in Skokie (3602 Dempster), a hot dog joint that deserves to be in the bigger Chicago area hot dog conversation.Check out “Power is a Phantom” by Seances when it appears on February 13!##Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.netTransform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kansas-based singer/songwriter Aud Whitson is about to release her stark, authentic EP, “A House That Can’t Get Quieter,” on February 7. I caught up with her while she was in Chicago to talk about her songwriting, as well as the very DIY method she used to record the EP - voice memos on her iPhone. Check out Aud’s EP when it comes online on 2/7! It’s raw, real, confessional and haunting. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fairly obscure, cult favorite, 70s Chicago prog band, McLuhan may very well be the least likely band to have entered 2025 with a string of live dates … but here we are. 50+ years after the release of their debut album, “Anomaly,” it’s getting a second life with a repressing/rerelease and the band is doing a monthly residency at Montrose Saloon. I sat down with band leader Neal Rosner (bass/vocals) before McLuhan’s most recent Montrose Saloon gig to talk about how the band made it this far into the 21st century, the offbeat songs on Anomaly, and what the Chicago scene was like long before most of Car Con Carne’s audience was born. See McLuhan when they return to Montrose Saloon on March 6 and April 3. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Liar’s Club (1665 W. Fullerton) is set to host two fundraisers for victims of the L.A. fires: Friday, January 24, and Sunday, January 26. The Friday event, featuring Local H, Viceroy and Tuff Sudz, is sold out. The Sunday event, featuring Handcuffs, Jon Langford and more TBA, will go on sale soon (keep an eye on Liar’s Club’s social media for updates). I’m joined by Liar’s Club owner Herb Rosen to talk about the events. We met for ice cream, as kids do, so we could chat over gigantic sundaes from Margie’s on Montrose. ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Slice to Meet You returns to Piece Pizzeria (1927 North Avenue)! The fundraiser benefiting Paws Chicago, the Midwest’s largest no-kill shelter, kicks off with “Bill and Doug’s Excellent Adventure, a collaboration between Piece and iconic Chicago chef Hot Doug. Piece owner Bill Jacobs and Hot Doug jump in the car to unveil their masterful collab: a white pizza topped with Hot Doug’s Hungarian sausage, thinly sliced Yukon potatoes, roasted garlic, mozzarella, and finished with horseradish cream sauce, grated aged Pecorino Romano, and scallions. For every “Bill and Doug’s” pizza sold, Paws will receive $70, thanks to Piece and generous matching donors. Yeah, the pizza was outstanding, but I really enjoyed talking with Bill and Doug. I think you’ll enjoy the conversation - it’s an episode absolutely dripping with Chicago and food talk. After you’ve scarfed down this month’s pizza, get ready for the next two collaborations in February (the Weiner’s Circle) and March (Rick Bayless). Visit Piece on social media: @piecechicago Visit Paws online: pawschicago.com ## Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This conversation was long overdue! I sat down with LiveWire Lounge owner Dave Hornyak to talk about LiveWire’s 14 years in business: The highs, the lows, the bands and the $2 PBRs. Looking for a zero-bullshit, low-budget, place to unwind, listen to cool music, and be yourself? Visit my friends at LiveWire: 3394 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60641. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Malört existed long before you made your first “Malört face.” The story of its survival and eventual 21st century triumph is a twisty, fascinating business story laid out in Josh Noel’s new book, “Malört : The Redemption of a Revered and Reviled Spirit.” It’s a business story. A love story. A marketing story. A Chicago story. I can’t recommend the book enough. In this episode, I talk with Josh Noel about the book and Malört history. To appropriately set the scene, we met at one of Chicago’s great neighborhood bars, Live Wire Lounge (3394 N. Milwaukee Avenue). Thanks to Dave and bartender Mikey Classic for their hospitality, and for turning down “Girl’s Got Rhythm” by AC/DC on the house system for the interview recording. If you’ve ever wondered why Malört tastes the way it does or how on earth it became Chicago’s go-to rite of initiation, I encourage you to read the book. That said, start by watching/listening to the interview! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Appearing at Metro, Saturday, January 4, 2025: Nicholas Tremulis & the Prodigals present Boneyard Rhapsody #65, featuring DJ Joe Shanahan & special guests. This promises to be a wall-rattling, roof-shaking, night of live music. To preview the event, I met Joe Shanahan (Metro founder) and Nicholas Tremulis in the Metro balcony for a conversation that includes: *When Nicholas first met Joe in the early 80s. *Their shared love of music (and sharing of music), spanning multiple decades. *The sheer enormousness of Nicholas’ band. It stands at 15 members, but surely he can find a few more before January 4th? *The event benefits Collaboraction: Nicholas explains their mission. *Metro’s ability to thrive and grow amidst constant change and disruption in Wrigleyville through the years. *Nicholas’ history of collaborating with, well, everyone. He’s an “elder statesman” at this point; is he still learning? *The importance of music discovery. *Joe’s approach to DJ-ing events. *The ever-growing list of live music venues in Chicago Joe and Nicholas have known each other forever, which made this a very easy conversation to record. In many cases, I just sat back and let the old friends talk and riff. It was a great experience. The first great show of 2025 is on the calendar: See you at Metro! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gilian from Hi Ho and Birdy from Sweetie jumped in my car at the end of 2024 to talk about their free show at Schubas (also including Reckoner), happening on 12/30/24 (New Year’s Eve Eve). We’d originally planned to go food-less for this one, but to my surprise they arrived with freshly-baked cookies. They weren’t chocolate chip cookies, though, because Gillian’s not a fan (please don’t cancel her). Things discussed in the episode:*Birdy’s love for alliteration. She’s a fabulously fun, fervent francophile. *Gillian joins the “5 timers club,” while Birdy is right on the edge with her fourth appearance. *Gillian’s reemergence after “this non-musical and extremely medical year.” *The state of Hi Ho: New music on the way. *Birdy Vee is known to warmly greet her community of fans when Sweetie takes the stage. She’s demure. *Sweetie will release a new album (on vinyl!) in 2025. *Birdy plays rugby. Don’t mess with her. *The HOOF Fest, and why Gillian is such a fan of it. *Gillian’s secret to building a band (Sweetie has a similar road map). I don’t know if it was the holidays in the air, or just the combination of Gillian and Birdy, but holy shit, this episode was a lot of fun to record. Please support these fine bands (for ZERO POINT ZERO DOLLARS) on December 30! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chicago Americana artist Sara Jean Stevens just released a new video for the song “Thaw,” with a new EP, “Lovesick,” to follow on Valentine's Day. To mark the occasion, she jumped on the podcast to do an absolutely stunning version of the song before our interview.   See Sara in one of her upcoming shows: 12/14 - Fitzgerald's (Them Coulee Boys) 12/26 - Martyrs (with the Hoyle Brothers) 1/14/25 - SPACE   We met outside Cantina 52 in Crystal Lake (cantina52.com). Thanks to owner Jimmy for his kind hospitality and delicious food. Sara and I both ordered off the vegan menu (so many choices!), and loved what we had. If you're watching the video, you can see what we ate. I'm ready to go back … meet you there? _ Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Singer is one of Chicago's most versatile artists: he's a songwriter, performer, filmmaker, screenwriter and podcaster.  He's also a founding Board Member and President of Intonation.   He's back on Car Con Carne as his first solo album, “The Cost of Living,” is celebrating its 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, David Singer and the Sweet Science headline the Hideout on Saturday, December 14 (Early show! Cheap tickets!).   Since he's playing the Hideout soon, we decided to record at the Hideout (thanks, Katie and Tim). We holed up in the green room for our chat, which wrapped with David performing two songs: new single “Crashing,” and the title track from “The Cost of Living.”   David and I have known each other since well before “The Cost of Living,” so the conversation is always easy and fun with him. I think you'll like this one!   __ Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Q101 (101.1FM / WKQX) is back on Chicago's FM dial, after many confusing and MIA years for the brand. A fresh listen reveals a station in line with what many (or at least I) would argue is a “classic” Q101 look and feel. Let's be candid: Terrestrial radio is facing serious headwinds, and its success hinges on bold ideas spanning multiple platforms. To talk about radio, and more specifically, Q101, I invited Q101 Program Director James Kurdziel to discuss topics like: What makes for a good air personality in the modern day (especially compared to, say, the 1990s)? How does new music find its way onto the air? What does the industry need to do to right the course? Is being a heritage station an advantage or weakness? What about being ‘live and local?' Where do podcasts, YouTube, et al. fit in? I've worked for (and with) my share of radio blowhards through the decades. James isn't one of them. He and his vision for the station are easy to root for. Disclaimer: Car Con Carne is a Q101 podcast. Even so, I asked the same questions I would have asked if that were not the case. Disclaimer #2: This episode (1011… get it?) is being published before Episode 1008. I decided I didn't want to sit on it just to fall in sequence. I thought it was really interesting, and a good one to share before Thanksgiving.  __ Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ryan Argast of Marina City returns to Car Con Carne for Italian beef sandwiches at the iconic Johnnie's Beef. We eat the beefs while wearing rubber exam gloves, but I swear it's normal behavior. We spent some time chatting about the new Marina City EP, Reflections, another big step forward for the band. Start with “I'm So Broke” … you'll thank me for it later, I swear.   We also talk about Argast's run on “The Voice” earlier this year. He should have gone farther.   ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

50K Check celebrates the vinyl release of “50 Thousand Dollar Check” with an event at Shuga on December 13. To talk about the album (and band) are members Mason Payne (guitar), Kisira Hill (bass) and Kelly Torch (vocals).   As we chat, we enjoy fantastic food from Lilac Tiger (1742 W. Division St.). Lilac Tiger delivers an exceptional South Asian dining experience (and if you're enjoying the food in the restaurant instead of the car, a world-class beverage experience).   Go support 50K Check at Shuga (1272 N. Milwaukee) on 12/13, and treat yourself to dinner at nearby-ish Lilac Tiger before or after the show!   ##   Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey, hello, how was your day? “Whatever Happened to P.J. Soles,” originally released 20 years ago, has grown to become a fan-favorite Local H album, and remains the favorite of band leader Scott Lucas. In his words, “P.J. Soles” was “the work of a band that had simply ceased to give a fuck.” Scott returns to Car Con Carne to take a look back at P.J. Soles in its anniversary year, and we go track-by-track through it.  Specifically, each and every one of these songs: Where Are They Now?
 Everyone Alive California Songs Dick Jones Money on the Dresser P.J. Soles How's the Weather Down There? Buffalo Trace Heaven on the Way Down Hey, Rita Heavy Metal Bakesale Mellowed That's What They All Say Halcyon Days (Where Were You Then?) If you're a Local H fan, or simply a fan of music deep dives, this is a can't-miss episode. I've interviewed Scott many times over the past 30 years, and this is easily my favorite of the bunch. See Local H play “P.J. Soles” in their New Year's Eve show at Bottom Lounge! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe? Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured. Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  “I'm ready to go if you're ready to go-whoa.”   You Died's new album, “Machine Learning,” is out, and Fred Frey from the band returns to Car Con Carne to talk about it.   See You Died in their record release show at Reggie's on Friday, November 15!   ##   Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.