Roadcase

Fans need tickets and artists need fans. On this week’s episode, I talk to Brando Rich, co-founder and CEO of Cash or Trade, the popular ticket exchange app. Brando’s mission is to get tickets that might go unused into the hands of fans that need them -- at face value or less. As the de-facto head of the Face Value Movement, Brando talks to me about the intricacies of ticketing, how best to thwart scalpers, and how the live music experience is the vital essence that drives Cash or Trade’s continued growth and expansion. Brando wants fans to enjoy the amazing experience of live music, and he learned early on from the Phish and jam band world that by using his programming expertise, he could unite fans with face value tickets in a community of like minded music lovers. Idealistic?  Yes!  Feasible and doable?  Yes and yes!! I really enjoyed this conversation with Brando as we explore this crazy and tangled up world of ticketing. I learned a ton, and so will you on this week’s episode of Roadcase!!    

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Or contact Roadcase by email:  info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Durand Jones has a lot to say, and we really get into it in this amazing and refreshing conversation. Effusive, warm and fun-loving with a terrific sense of humor, Durand is here to honor his Louisiana roots and his hometown of Hillaryville, on the Mississippi just north of New Orleans. Having recently released his debut solo album, Wait Til I Get Over, Durand and I talk about going out without his band, The Indications, and I learn what exactly are the key elements of his upbringing that makes this latest record so compelling. Durand takes pride in his vulnerability and is thus able to share personal details he chose not disclose until this moment in his creative life. I was honored to chat with this genuine and truly dynamic artist from the Southern tradition of R&B and Soul. This is a special conversation and I’m excited to share itl! 

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Or contact Roadcase by email:  info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Marcus Rezak is here and we're diving deep into the world of improvisational modern rock. I talk to Marcus about his commitment to collaborations and sit-ins as well as his new album Guitar Head, produced by Paul Nelson (Johnny Winter, Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy) and featuring Kris Myers and Joel Cummins of Umphrey's McGee, among others! Collaboration is a way of life in Marcus's world and he's played with a long list of musical luminaries. I find out what are the most important elements of improv and what makes up a "gentlemanly jam" as we talk about the true nature of live music and how situational awareness is a critical element in any band formation. Marcus is currently on tour; check out his website for more info. I'm psyched to have him on the show!!

For more info on Marcus Rezak head to:
https://marcusrezak.com/tour

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Or contact Roadcase by email:  info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

We’re delving into the world of artist management this week when I talk to manager Drew Simmons, who’s riding high with his chief client, Noah Kahan -- one of the biggest names in music today.  Drew is a Partner at Foundations Artist Management in Nashville and is now at the pinnacle of his career. Nine years ago he discovered Noah’s music on SoundCloud, subsequently drove to Vermont to meet him and the rest is history. Drew had always been drawn to the music industry and in his younger days steadily worked his way up the ranks, working any and all jobs and angles he could find!  An expert at the human side of the business as well, Drew is well versed in managing not only careers from a business standpoint, but also focusing on the artist as a whole. His dedication, personal investment and love for what he does is palpable and I’m here for it.

For more information on Roadcase: 

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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Mayer Hawthorne is with me on Roadcase for this week’s episode, and I was honored to talk with this intriguing and widely-respected artist at this particular point in his life. Mayer’s latest album, For All Time, is a uniquely psychedelic ode to love in the style of the R&B and Soul artists who have been an inspiration throughout his long career. But more importantly, as Mayer winds down his Hawthorne Rides Again Tour, he will head home to welcome his first child into the world, and I wish him the best with all that!!  Exciting times indeed for Mayer Hawthorne, who might be best categorized as “your favorite artist’s favorite artist. He possesses a unique aesthetic that been praised throughout the music world, and his legendary DJ sets and live shows have brought immense joy to his broad legion of fans. So pour yourself a nice glass of your favorite wine, and enjoy my amazing conversation with Mayer Hawthorne on this week’s episode of Roadcase!

For more information on Roadcase: 

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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Big shoutout to all you Auburn University fans out there for this week’s episode when I sit down with Birmingham, AL natives and members of The Brook & The Bluff, who began their career playing house gigs and frat parties while pursuing their studies. This is a super lively five-way epic interview with band members John Canada, Joseph Settine, Fred Lankford and Alec Bolton who joined me to talk about their latest projects and life on the road.

These guys have mostly known each other forever — and even sung together in Choir — so they’ve been working on their sweet harmonies for a majority of their young lives. Live performance plays a major part in their band ethos, and they’ve managed to build a super strong connection with their audience by perseverance, musical skill, amazing song arrangements, and stellar personalities that keep fans coming back for more. Their story is a compelling and endearing tale of great friends who love what they do, and get to do it together.

It’s heart-warming and life-affirming in all the best ways and I’m all about that. Make sure to tune in for this amazing episode with Alabama rockers The Brook & The Bluff!!

For more information on Roadcase: 

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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

The amazing and inspiring Allison Russell joins me on Roadcase this week for a very special conversation. Allison’s latest album, The Returner, which received four Grammy nominations including Best American Album, truly celebrates the concept of “chosen family,” and I talk to Allison — a survivor of abuse — about the importance she places upon surrounding oneself with those that provide love, acceptance, and a nurturing environment. We also talk about the African American experience in North America, how that has shaped her own musical influences, and how the dynamics of “Survivor’s Joy” has been a driving force in her life. This conversation is simply a wonderful exploration of survival and the nature of love and community — it’s easily one of the most inspiring conversations I’ve had to date, and I’m totally psyched to share it with you all. I’m so grateful for Allison and all that she brings!!  So tune in for this week’s episode for my conversation with the one and only Allison Russell.   

For more information on Roadcase: 

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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

While major summer festival announcements are coming in fast and furious, I dig deep into the Roadcase Vault and dream of warm summer days with four previously unreleased in-person interviews I did at last year’s Lollapalooza 2023 featured on this week’s episode.

First up is Texas rocker and legendary road dog Austin Meade who is now a new Dad, having welcomed his son into the world shortly after I spoke to him, and is just coming off a major North American Fall tour in support of Dirty Honey. His most recent album, Abstract Art of an Unstable Mind, sets a high bar for creative exploration in the rock genre.

Next, I had a super fun conversation with Chicago-native Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer. Having begun her journey in pursuit of a career in dentistry, Deanna explains to me how she quickly discovered that the straight route was just not for her. Solo gigs soon became a full band effort and Deanna talks to me about her personal and quirky lyrical style in full display on Sincere Engineer’s latest album, Cheap Grills.

In the third slot, I talk to Danny Davis of Husbands who is no stranger to change. Recently, he parted ways with his longtime collaborator and bandmate, Will Norton, quit his job as a software engineer to pursue music full-time, and moved to Costa Rica. Danny talks to me about how happy he is to have managed to create a new life for himself while doing what he loves. Husbands’ latest album, Cuatro, is a testament to the power of change and the pitfalls therein.

Lastly, I spoke to Axel Ellis, Hunter Olshefke, and Sal Defilippis of Ax and the Hatchetmen. These young Chicago-natives are  Lollapalooza rookies and talk to me about what that means having grown up fans of their massive hometown festival. Exciting things are yet to come for this enthusiastic and tight-knit group as they continue to turn on their fans with their infectious energy.

For more information on Roadcase: 

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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Say She She is here and I am still smiling from this super fun conversation I had with this stellar trio!!  The amazing Nya, Piya and Sabrina have been close friends for ages, and have finally come together in recent years to combine absolutely enthralling vocals with a vibey funk style they've dubbed "discodelic," and it's totally infectious. Their second album, Silver, released in 2023 has set a high benchmark for this expanding genre.  Fun times aside, these stellar women have been touring hard and killing it on stages both large and small, as well as massive shows from Glastonbury in the UK to the Hollywood Bowl to Central Park Summerstage. Their stories from the road are indeed epic but even more importantly, Say She She flies the flag for empowerment, diversity and social awareness; they are a band with a higher purpose, if you will. Their recent song, Norma, written in response to the overturning of Roe v Wade has propelled them speak out and raise money not only for reproductive rights, but also for other important causes such as stricter gun control legislation and climate change awareness.  Say She She is a bright light of awesome vibes and feel good music, while setting a shining example for new generations of young women. This interview is as inspiring as it is fun, and I'm all in!!

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Stewart Copeland of The Police is on Roadcase for this week’s episode!  Stewart is a noted author, composer, multi-Grammy winner, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, and just all-around great dude. He's a truly legendary drummer who created a style uniquely his own, and approaches life with a great sense of humor, kinetic energy and wit; we really get into it with his loads of opinions, fascinating background info and deep understanding of the Universal Power of Music. In this rousing and amusing hang, we chat not only about the early days with his band (yes, we talk about Sting), but also his latest projects, including his new album of “derangements” of Police songs, entitled Police Deranged for Orchestra, a new book, The Police Diaries, documenting the early days of the landmark band, and his newly released international version of Police songs for orchestra, Police Beyond Borders. He is also releasing a new deluxe version of the 1980 album from his original band, Klark Kent.  We go deep on this one and span the decades (and even millenia!) so make sure to tune into my epic interview with this true musical icon!!

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I’m honored to feature Adam Weiner on this week’s special Hanukkah episode. Not only is he a fellow Jew, but he’s also one of the most dynamic and hard-working performers out there today. “Live performance is what wakes me up in the morning,” exclaims Adam proudly, and I’m grateful for that. His live performances are legendary and are the embodiment of inclusivity; a place where his fans can let their freak-flag fly. On the heels of the latest album from Low Cut Connie, ART DEALERS, I talk to Adam about what continues to drive him and where he’s at in today’s complex world. His new documentary film, also entitled ART DEALERS, is set for broad release in 2024, and provides an intimate look at his working-class band origin story. Adam puts it all out there and this interview is no exception.

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I spoke to the super-chill Oklahoma native Max Rainer of Wilderado in this compelling interview, and it was like meeting an old friend. Max is a family man who cares deeply about the relationships in his life and quite intentionally strives to strike a healthy balance between his home life and his time on the road. However, after having played over 250 shows in 2022, Wilderado is now seeking to maintain a bit more measured pace. But this is not to say that Wilderado is slowing down; the band is doing quite the opposite. With their first full length album coming out in 2021, the self-titled "Wilderado," and new music being released regularly, Max continues to give everything he has to his fans without feeling constrained by standard industry norms. I get deep with Max about life both at home and on the road, and we discuss the beauty of Malibu, his newly released and latest single "In Between" featuring Matt Berninger of The National, and why the connection with his fans is so important to him. Max is a unique talent and special human, and I'm here for that.

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

In this revealing conversation I had with Zac Carper of FIDLAR, we talk about everything from the scrappy and crazy beginning of his journey, to his struggles with addiction, and his maturing into a fully self-aware human strengthened by his belief in the power of positive thinking. Now clean and sober, Zac appreciates even more the life he lives on the road, where he gets to share his deep love of live performance with his devoted fans, the so-called FIDIOTS.  Embodying a new perspective on life and his art, Zac and I exchange views on how best to battle the games the brain can play, and how to escape that often self-destructive road -- it's an epic and enlightening conversation.  FIDLAR's latest EP, That's Life, their first in four years, marks a new era for a band that's had its share of challenges but is proud of where they are now and equally excited about the future. I'm truly psyched to share this enlightening conversation with Zac on this latest episode of Roadcase!!

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Zzzahara joins me on Roadcase this week on the heels of their latest album, Tender, to talk to me about their current path of self-improvement. But it has not been an easy journey that brought them to this point.  Zzzahara and I talk not only about the self-reflection, awareness and confidence needed to reach a level of vulnerability, but also the hard work (and a strong meditation practice) it takes to become the best person you can be. It's been a road marked with lots of therapy, dedication and devotion to one's true self. Zzzahara is open about it all -- and I'm here for it. This is an epic convo with a very special artist!

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I’ve got Justin Osborne of Susto on the show this week and we had an amazing conversation that you’re going to love. He’s just released a new album, My Entire Life, his fifth full-length effort, and I talk to Justin about his current direction — both from an artistic and personal perspective  — and like some of us, he is in the midst of several big, positive changes in his life. Transparency and vulnerability is what Justin is all about and I’m here to talk to him about both the struggles and stories that have shaped who he is and has brought him to this moment in time. Susto is currently on the road so check out their tour dates and make sure to go see Susto bring their special brand of love and good vibes to a venue near you!

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Roadcase is kicking off Season 4 and I'm talking to musician, actor, performer and overall great guy, Alejandro Rose-Garcia, aka Shakey Graves for this inaugural episode!!  Shakey Graves' new album, Movie of the Week, is an exciting project demonstrating the manifold perspectives of the creative mind. Alejandro talks to me about how this project came about, reflecting his lifelong interest in movies and music and how those two art forms intersect in his world. Written and created as it it were a movie -- with accompanying visuals and other surprises, including a "song shuffler" on the website -- Alejandro explains that "artistic endeavors are a way to force your own will on reality." Indeed, Alejandro loves to control his own environment and I delve into how his self-admittedly controlling nature is the cornerstone of his creative process. Join Shakey Graves out on tour this month and make sure to create your own Movie of the Week by visiting the website. I'm honored to bring such an amazing force of nature, Alejandro Rose-Garcia to Roadcase for this Special Episode!!   

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Season Finale alert!!  I've got a stellar lineup for this last of the Roadcase summer festival series of interviews on this, the final episode of the 2023 Season.  It's been an amazing summer and I'm psyched to wrap it all up with three fun convos.  First up, I talk to George Gekas, the stellar bass player of The Revivalists.  George is a music fan, musician, family man, and seriously chill dude who is down to chat with me about all the cool stuff he loves and gets to do, from playing music at Red Rocks to touring the country with his lifelong friends and chosen family. The Revivalists have an awesome new album out entitled Pour It Out Into The Night, their fifth album -- the first one in five years -- and we're here for it!

Next is the wonderful Cassandra Lewis whose absolutely stunning voice blends classic country with a unique psychedelic vibe to give new meaning to the Cosmic Country world. I talk to Cassandra about her recently released debut album, Always, All Ways,  and she shares with me her unique insights into love and life and how her myriad experiences fuel the relationship she has with her audience.  While she's had some bumps in life, her story is stunning example of the power of self-love and acceptance -- and I'm all about that!

To conclude this Bumbershoot series and bring the 2023 Roadcase Season to a close, I sit down for a fun convo with Barry Lally and Cian McClusky of alt-pop sensation, modernlove., These fun Irish gents have literally been friends their entire life and I talk to them about their years touring the US and Europe, and the impact of their massive popularity. But more importantly, we talk about their roots, playing songs as teens, and we explore all sorts of humorous Irish slang!     

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I'm back with more amazing artist interviews I did at Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival in Seattle over Labor Day weekend and this episode couldn't be more fun. I start off with the amazing Valerie June -- Grammy-nominated artist, author, poet and yogi. He lighthearted spirit and zest for life is in full force, and she's here to talk to me about spreading joy, love and tapping into one's unique creative self.

Next up is Courtney Taylor and Pete Holmström of The Dandy Warhols, who have been making their special brand of eclectic and enigmatic music for more than 25 years. We head down myriad roads -- veering off on multiple detours along the way -- in this compelling exploration of what it takes to continue to unlock new doors in the alternate musical universe they inhabit.

I then sit down with Nigerian-born Canadian artist DEBBY FRIDAY, whose debut album released in March, GOOD LUCK, has propelled her into a new orbit. Debby talks to me about what an amazing and groundbreak year this has been and how taking her artistry on the road has helped her mature as an artist.

I round out this exciting episode with Evan Smith of local Seattle band, The Dip. Evan came to Seattle to study music at the University of Washington where he met fellow his bandmates to form The Dip. I talk to Evan about how the band has developed moved from playing houseparties to embarking on national tours with Lake Street Dive and then touring Europe with the likes of Durand Jones. It's been an amazing ride!!

For more information on Roadcase: 
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Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

I'm continuing to come at you with in-person interviews from festivals around the country -- and this time I'm celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival, which took place in Seattle over Labor Day weekend.  In this Part 1 of another intriguing three-part series, I first sit down for a rousing conversation with Thunderpussy, a local Seattle staple, to celebrate the inclusivity and empowerment which are hallmarks of both Thunderpussy and the Seattle scene at-large. These amazing women will rock your socks off, among other things!! 

Next up is one of my favorite people on the planet, the artist/musician/activist/mental health advocate, Cameron Lavi-Jones of the kick-ass rockband, King Youngblood. Cameron will literally and figuratively rock your world as he talks to me about the myriad causes he passionately and actively supports. He is a total gem of a human!

Destroy Boys is in the 3-slot as I sat down with these thoughtful, energetic and surprisingly reflective punk rockers to discuss their roots in the Bay Area punk scene. As we gather outside the KEXP studios, they explain to me the nature and essence of the energy and purpose they bring to their fans around the globe.

Last up are twins Cedric and Eva Walker, The Black Tones, who talk to me about their Seattle roots mixed with a New Orleans heritage, and how Rice Krispie treats can be so amazing.  This charming duo gives a new meaning to the love of family while bringing a unique energy and warmth to all their music and beyond.   

For more information on Roadcase: 
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

In this final installment from Lollapalooza, I'm psyched to bring you a super hip lineup of diverse artists!  First up, I talk to Jordan Topf of Windser who reflects on the early days in his hometown of Santa Cruz, CA as we dissect the nature of vulnerability and its importance in crafting his artistic vision. Jordan's got a new single out, Get Lost, and he's headed out on the road this Fall with The Happy Fits.

Usted Señalemelo is the first Argentinian band to play Lollapalooza USA, and we talk about what it means to be on their first US tour, growing up in the small town of Mendoza, and the significance of being a close-knit band of friends who've been playing music together since they were kids. They're having the time of their lives!

Hoosh, who attended University of Miami, was born in Sudan and was raised in both the US and the Middle East. I go deep with Hoosh to talk about his family background and how he buried his innate musical talent as a kid and it wasn't until he was in his early 20s when he began to pursue his dreams.

Last up, I talk to Chaos and Rage of Bad Neighbors, who enlighten me as to their unique life philosophy of being neither here nor there, of this world or of another, and how pain guides and propels them in their artistic journey. Yes, this convo is as bizarre as it sounds, and as interesting as it gets.  A great way to close this Lolla interview Series!!     

For more information on Roadcase: 
https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com

Contact: info@roadcasepod.com

Roadcase theme music:  "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer