Tour Stories/The Check-In with Joe Plummer

Dustin O’Halloran is an American pianist and composer with six acclaimed solo albums under his own name. He has scored multiple films and TV shows, won an Emmy for the theme to Transparent and has been nominated for an Oscar, a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award for his score to Lion, a collaboration with Volker Bertelmann (aka Hauschka). His most recent album, 1 0 0 1, is an instrumental four-movement exploration of the nature of the human mind, implications of artificial intelligence and raises questions of humanity in a world intertwined with technology is out now via Deutsche Grammophon. Dustin shares how his early relationship with music influenced his trajectory to go from a rock-oriented guitarist and singer to a solo pianist creating instrumental music. He tells us how 1 0 0 1 evolved from a performance dance piece to expansive sonic journey and functioned as a bridge to a new artistic path. Dustin and Joe discuss his process in writing and recording 1 0 0 1, Dustin walks us through the inspiration behind the four movements and he explains why texture drives his creativity. The two celebrate the power of re-amping and we hear two pieces from 1 0 0 1.Dustin O'HalloranDeutsche GrammophonEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Nick Thorburn is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist residing in Los Angeles. Nick has fronted and co-founded bands such as The Unicorns, Human Highway, Mister Heavenly and Islands. The newest Islands record, What Occurs, is out now an available everywhere. In this episode, old pals and current bandmates Joe and Nick get cheeky and personal, touching on their first meeting, what bonds them and why they owe Ryan Kattner all the credit for their friendship. Nick shares the germ of inspiration behind What Occurs, how they wrote and recorded the record on an actual island and why live collaboration is so important to him. We learn how Joe and Nick differ on their view of death, how Nick found his singing voice and why a sense of play is so important to his songwriting. The two predict how and why AI will eat itself, they entertain a very special surprise guest, and we hear a couple new Islands songs. Islands Episode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Billy Fuller is a bass player and songwriter from Bristol, England. He has played bass guitar with acts including Massive Attack, Robert Plant and is a founding member of Beak>. Beak’s new record, Beak>>>> (Beak 4), is available now via Invada Records. Billy shares his early experience of learning the bass by listening to his brother’s records and cassettes that he picked up at his local petrol station that is ultimately the root of his sound. We get his take on the famous “Bristol Sound”, overcoming “old tricks” when recording a new record and the relativity of bass guitar tone, supported by a story about the great Robbie Shakespeare. Billy walks us through the recording of the new record, how the Beak> writing process typically goes and specifically how they put together the current single, The Seal. Billy and Joe finally publicly address their Instagram beef and we hear a few hot numbers.Beak>Invada RecordsEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Ryan Kattner is a singer, songwriter, and lyricist for Man Man, Mister Heavenly and his solo effort, Honus Honus. The newest Man Man record, Carrot on Strings, is out now and is Man Man’s first full length release on Sub Pop Records. Old pals Joe and Ryan discuss the long road of Joe finally playing with Man Man, the process of writing the new record and Ryan explains the song Mongolian Spot and how the records art may parallel his life. The two speculate on why Ryan is living in a “carrot orange” space and the consequences of making this decision at this point in his life. Ryan share’s his experience splitting his head open in a bike accident, we learn the roll that Old Yeller plays on the new record, and we hear a couple tunes.Man ManSup Pop RecordsEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Tara Jane O’Neil is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and visual artist residing in California. She composes and performs under her own name and in collaboration with other musicians, artists, dancers, and filmmakers. As a solo artist she has released ten full-length albums and her newest record, The Cool Cloud Of Okayness is out now on Orindal Records and available everywhere. Tara shares her experience playing music as a youngster, sitting in on a friend’s guitar lessons, learning bass from Jefferson Airplane and Pixies records and ultimately starting bands Rodan and Drinking Women. She tells us why she almost stopped making records, what changed that trajectory and how it affected her songwriting approach. We learn how “good feelings” is the catalyst for the new record, why acting fast with her guitar was so important and how the title track came to her in an afternoon. Joe and Tara flirt with getting stoned on the beach together, discuss the importance of “diva status” and we hear a few tunes.Tara Jane O'neilOrindal RecordsEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Today Joe stops by the Cult and Culture headquarters in San Diego. Cult and Culture is a podcast co-created by renowned musician and actor Justin Pearson and producer and musician Luke Henshaw. The show explores the DIY-driven, subversive world of art and culture, featuring a diverse array of guests from various subcultures. They are also Ruinous Media Network Partners! They talk about the variety of music he has taken part in, working on research podcasts, tour stories involving frisbees and back problems, pickle ball and yoga, the San Diego connections that Joe has, and the similarities in the DNA of Seattle and San Diego. They also talk about the heart, integrity, and work ethic that brings their community of weirdos together, even despite their musical or artistic differences.Cult and CultureThree One GEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Logan Lynn is a singer, songwriter, producer, filmmaker, and activist currently based in the Northwest. For the past 25 years, he has been recording and releasing music with Caroline, EMI and The Dandy Warhol’s label, Beat The World. His newest record, Softcore, will release on June 7th via Kill Rock Stars, alongside a film of the same name. Logan shares his story of growing up in a Christian cult, how that led him to creating music in his youth and how he wound up in Portland, Or during his artistically formative years. He shares the love loss and self-motivated loneliness that inspired the new record and how he came to a Bill Callahan/Smog song as his lead single. He tells us about his involvement with Pass The Mic, a foundation started by Portugal The Man that advocates philanthropy and community engagement around universal issues related to human rights, community health, and the environment with a specific focus on the stories of Indigenous Peoples. Logan also shares his community’s reaction to his attendance to a White House Pride event, and we hear a few tunes.Logan LynnKill Rock StarsPass The Mic FoundationEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Chris Cohen is a producer, songwriter, and a multi-instrumentalist from Los Angeles, California. He has released several solo records, is a founding member of The Curtains and was the guitarist for Deerhoof from 2002-2006. He has also done production and session work for the likes of Weyes Blood, Kurt Vile, Le Ren, and Marina Allen. His new record, Paint A Room, is due out on July 12th via Hardly Art Records. Chris tells us how he grew up as a lonely punker in Los Angeles, what sparked his interest in music and why no-one has ever heard his first band, The Blocks. He talks about a show in a Santa Cruz basement in the 90’s that set in motion a life in music and why a flexibility between instruments guides his journey. We learn why Milton Nascimento is his musical hero, what he learned about producing recording Paint A Room and we hear a couple new tunes.Chris CohenHardly ArtEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Ep 213 with Babe Report! The wonderfully raucous four piece from Chicago have followed up their debut EP, The Future of Teeth, with Did You Get Better, a full-length LP due out May 31st via Exploding In Sound. We hear how the band formed following the pandemic, how they recorded and mixed the entire record over a weekend in their basement studio and the meaning behind the title Did You Get Better. They share how the first single, Turtle Of Reaper, addresses societal paranoia and why their neighborhood print newspaper, Nadig Newspaper, is both a weekly pre-rehearsal muse and inspiration for the record. Joe tells the group how he met Charles Barkley 10 days after his son was born and we hear a couple rip roaring tunes.Babe ReportExploding In SoundEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Coady Willis is a drummer based in Los Angeles CA. He has a robust pedigree of performing and recording with The Murder City Devis, Big Business, Melvins and High On Fire, to name a few. He is also one of three drummers on the all percussion record, Hew Time, along with Joe and Dale Crover. Coady tells us how his uncle helped pave the way for life as a rock n roll drummer, why seeing the band Tribe 8 changed his early teen perspective on performance and he shares his experience of playing in bands in Mt. Vernon and Seattle in his formative years. He also shares his journey from being a young Dale Crover fan to eventually playing alongside Dale in Melvins. The two drummers discuss their individual approaches to joining an established band, the hurdles that come with it, and why being conscientious of the group’s chemistry is crucial. Finally, Coady talks about his long history with High On Fire and why recording and writing the new record Cometh The Storm (out now via MNRK Music Group) was such an educational and rewarding experience. We hear a few tunes from Cometh The Storm and of course the drummers talk drums. High On FireMNRK Music GroupEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidSchecter GuitarsIzotope

This is the Built In Sun appreciation episode. Released on August 7, 2015 via PIAPTK Records, Built In Sun is Joe Plummer's first and currently only solo record. BIS began as an instrumental idea, with inspirations landing somewhere between John Cale’s Fear, the punker vibrations of The Wipers, guitarist John Reis and Joe’s favorite soundtrackists, John Brion and Clint Mansell. Recorded both at his studio in Seattle and with the late Richard Swift at National Freedom, Joe made a point to collaborate with his friends and former bandmates. The lyrics and vocals on the record are provided by longtime friend and former The Black Heart Procession colleague, Pall Jenkins, with additional players David Bazan and Cody Votolato filling out the piano and guitar respectively. In this episode, Joe expresses his love for the opportunity to make a record with his pals and leaves an easter egg or two.Built in Sun Episode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars

Kai James is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and a founding member of Brisbane based Girl and Girl. Their newest record and Sub Pop debut, Call A Doctor, is out May 24th with extensive touring planned throughout North America, Europe, and Australia. Kai shares his experience of life growing up on a farm outside of Brisbane, how music entered his life and why it’s an important form of expression for him. Joe and Kai discuss the direct and personalness of his lyrics, the familial origin of Girl and Girl and the experience of recording Call A Doctor. Joe encourages Kai to become an actor, Kai tells us about surfing with “big fish” and we hear a couple tunes off the new record.Girl and GirlSub Pop RecordsMother VideoEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Surprise! Part 2 of Joe’s interview on @thetourstories with Eric D Johnson is up with a big announcement. Bonny Light Horseman, the trio of Anaïs Mitchell, Eric D. Johnson, and Josh Kaufman, are set to release their new double album and Jagjaguwar debut Keep Me on Your Mind/See You Free on June 7th! Eric shares the origin of BLH, how he came to be a contributing member and why they use a “yes and” style in their voltronic writing process. He also tells us about how the record was made partially live in an Irish pub, how his bandmate Anaïs has changed his lyric stylings and why the new record might have a broader reach of listeners. Joe and Eric also discuss Eric’s deep indie rock pedigree and his rich history of touring and recording from the early aughts to the present. The two reminisce about their tenure together in The Shins and how they both greatly benefitted from that experience. We learn about the invention of the famous SoftRockTail™ and hear a new tune from Keep Me on Your Mind/See You Free.Bonny Light HorsemenEric D JohnsonJagjaguwarEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Eric D Johnson is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and film composer based in Los Angeles. He is the founding member of Fruit Bats, has played with indie luminaries Califone, Vetiver, The Shins and is a contributing member of Bonny Light Horsemen. In Part 1 of a rare two-part episode, Eric shares a few stories from the road, spanning from his early tenure in Califone (opening for Modest Mouse), his interaction with a MTV beach party, to a more recent experience of jamming with Bob Weir in a small club. Old pals Joe and Eric laugh, they almost cry, and we hear a great live version of a Fruit Bats song. And this is only Part 1. Fruit BatsEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

The Red Pears are a three-piece band hailing from El Monte, Ca. Comprised of childhood friends Henry Vargas (vocals/guitar), Jose Corona (Drums) and Patrick Juarez (Bass), the trio are celebrating their fourth album, Better Late Than Never (out April 12th via Daycare Records). The three share the inspiration behind the new record and how a newfound freeness in production allowed them to toggle between listening with their hearts and employing technical input. We learn how cooperative comradery drives the inspiration of The Red Pears and the why a kindred conscientious serves as the glue in their writing, recording, and touring. They discuss the contrast of extensive touring and structureless home life, their upcoming shows at The Forum and Coachella and we hear a few tunes.Episode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidSchecter GuitarsIzotope

Joe P is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who writes, records and self-produces from his basement studio in Asbury Park, NJ. HIs newest record, Shadows in the Sun is expected to be released in summer 2024 and currently has 3 singles out via Atlantic records. Joe tells us how he got his start playing music and a very young age and shares his experience of trying to fit into his local hardcore scene in his late teens. He tells us about his approach to songwriting as an entirely self-produced artist, his philosophy on live performance verses recording and why he ended up recording vocals in his van while on a recent tour. The two discuss shoes, why it’s important to make touring loveable and we hear a few tunes.Joe PEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidSchecter GuitarsIzotope

Omni is a three-piece Atlanta based outfit comprised of guitarist Frankie Broyles, bassist/singer Philip Frobos and drummer Chris Yonker. Their fourth studio album, Souvenir (out now via Sub Pop) is an angular adventure of hooky guitar wizardry, tight and slinky rhythms topped with sheeny melodies and lyrics that set them apart from other post punkers. They share their experience growing up in Atlanta, the scene that took them in and motivated them to start a band. We hear the process behind the new record, what sparked the change in lyrical perspective and how new drummer Chris Yonker contributes to the sound of Souvenir. The four discuss the process behind their visual aesthetic, share tips for hotel deals on the road and we hear a couple tunes.Omni Sub Pop RecordsEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Thunder Road Guitars Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Bibi Club is the Montreal based pop project of singer-keyboardist Adèle Trottier-Rivard and guitarist Nicolas Basque. Their newest record, Feu de garde, is out May 10th via Secret City Records. Adèle and Nicolas tell us how the intersection of a chaotic living situation and nature inspired the record and why Adèle’s experience in the “dude world” of rock music informs her lyrics. We learn how these parents of three manage their lives as working artist’s and how why bringing kids on tour brings a special energy to their performances. The two share the meaning behind Feu de garde, what it was like to finally share mixing duties, and we hear a few tunes.Bibi ClubSecret City RecordsEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Julia Shapiro and Gretchen Grimm are one half of Seattle's noisy dream pop legends, Chastity Belt. Their 5th album, Live Laugh Love (out March 29th via Suicide Squeeze Records) is a dreamy layering of guitars, vocals and gentle rhythms that guide the listener through both emotional sincerity and lighthearted nostalgia, all with the sheen of cheekiness that the band has celebrated from the beginning. Julia and Gretchen share the process and inspiration behind the new record, its cover art, and how the power of simplicity guided the recording. The three discuss biking in Seattle, essential skills learned on the road and their relationship with music in their formative years. For the first time we take a few questions from friend of show John Atkins that leads to a thorough education on The Harp Twins and how to make a Renaissance Faire hat on the cheap. As always we hear a few tunes from the record.Chastity BeltSuicide SqueezeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeMentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Joe Wong is a LA based musician, film and tv composer, producer, and podcaster. His newest record, Mere Survival, is a lush orchestral psychedelic pop odyssey laden with timeless song structure and stacked with the heaviest of heavy hitting guest musicians (Mary Timony, Nate Mendel, Money Mark, Jim Keltner and Matt Cameron, to name of few). Joe (Wong) shares the motivation behind this realistic, yet despair rich record, and how this stage in his career naturally led to its completion. The Joe’s discuss the absurdity of the all-star cast of contributors and why Joe Wong sees making a record as an innately social experience. The two exchange their gleaned wisdom they’ve absorbed from Buzz Osborne, Joe (Wong) tells us why he’s getting his podcast The Trap Set up and running again and we hear his plans for upcoming performances of Mere Survival. As usual, we hear a few tunes and soak up the vibrations.Joe WongMere SurvivalEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeMentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Stephen Buono is a producer, songwriter, and devisor of the collective project Church Chords. The debut record, Elvis, he was a Schlager is out Feb 23 on his new label, Otherly Love. Stephen takes us through the process of making this expansive and cohesive record, how it was initially inspired by the University of Miami marching band, and why the first version of the record was scrapped. He tells us why the spirit of freedom and collaboration was crucial for this project and why he's grateful for the long list of heavy hitters that contributed. Joe and Stephen have a Minutemen superfan moment and we hear a few tunes from the new record.Church ChordsOtherly LoveEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Justin Pearson is a singer, bass player, podcaster and founder of the record label Three One G. He has recorded, toured with and founded such bands as The Locust, Dead Cross, Deaf Club and Retox. He latest project, Planet B, is a collaboration with Luke Henshaw that celebrates hip-hop, hardcore and noise, all coated with a danceable sheen of Sci-Fi. Their second record, Fiction Prediction, is out now on Three One G. Justin shares how his introduction to punk and hardcore music was sparked more by its cultural vibrations than playing music, which came later. Joe and Justin discuss the hodge podge nature of the early years of punk shows how that relates to their approach to music now. Justin gives us a little insight into Luke Henshaw’s approach to recording, how they work collectively and the philosophy behind the duos podcast, Cult and Culture. We hear a few tunes and Justin delivers a fabulous tour story.Planet BThree One GCult and CultureEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Nate Kinsella is a singer, multi-instrumentalist and song writer based in Brooklyn, NY. Since the mid 1990’s he’s has recorded, toured and or been a founding member of the bands Joan of Arc, American Football and Make Believe. His most recent project, Birthmark, has released a new LP titled Birth Of Omni, and is out now on Polyvinyl Records. Birth Of Omni is a rich sonic tapestry of eclectic electro pop, close and textured vocals, and personal and experiential lyrics. Nate tells us about the familial logistics and focus required to make a solo record as a primary caregiver of two kids, how the process brought him closer to his true self and what the motivation behind Birth Of Omni was. Joe and Nate discuss the power of patience and “bravery” in creating something with limited time and the difference between making a record with a band vs. alone. The two share childhood stories of cooking things in the woods, Nate talks social nudity, roller-skating and we hear a few tunes.Nate KinsellaPolyvinyl Records Episode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Allen Karpinski is a song writer, guitarist and founding member of the Ohio band The Six Parts Seven. Fellow Ohioan, Joey Beltram is this the singer, songwriter behind Goodmorning Valentine. Over the course of a weekend in 2006, the two bands came together in a small in studio in Kent, Ohio. What yielded was a beautiful collaborative collection of songs called Kissing Distance (out February 16th via Suicide Squeeze). Joey and Allen share the magic of the experience and the spark that inspired this collaboration. Joey tells us how an unusual spontaneity and openness in the studio led to a beautiful and novel experience for the band. Joey lends us some in-sight on the recording and writing process, they talk Kinkos, the fall of Pitchfork and we hear a couple tunes.The Six Parts SevenGoodmorning ValentineEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope

Hatis Noit is self-taught vocalist and songwriter based in London. Her inspiration and vocal style ranges from Japanese folk, western classical, Gregorian chanting to Avant-guard, ambient and pop. In 2018 she released her debut record, Illogical Dance, which was praised not only for its unique vocal interpretations, but also her moving live performances. Her most recent and widely acclaimed release, Aura (Erased Tapes) will be re-released on vinyl ahead of her debut U.S tour this spring. In this episode, Hatis shares the personal story that inspired her take up singing as her primary musical expression and why she see’s voice as the most connective instrument. She tells us why live performance is key to her completing songs and how the studio setting played a role in the creation and atmosphere of Aura. We hear how Taro Okamota inspired the high energy piece Jomon, why a visit from a squirrel dug her out of an artistic low point and we hear a couple magical tunes.Hatis Noit Erased TapesEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeMentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Maria BC is a singer, songwriter and ambient musician based in Oakland, Ca. Growing up in a musical household, Maria was encouraged to sing and is grateful for the 10 years of vocal training they enjoyed throughout their childhood. Since 2020, Maria has self-recorded and released two well received records and the third, Spike Field (out now on Sacred Bones) is a sprawling and spacious ambient journey laced with broad reverberations, dark folk guitar, synthesizers and choral stacking. Maria shares the idea behind Spike Field and how our battles with past and future selves relate to the field of nuclear semiotics. Joe and Maria discuss the meaning behind the song Watcher and what motivates them to take an outward reaching position in song writing. They share their perfectionist style of recording, why Oakland is the best city in the world, and we hear a couple tunes. Maria BCSacred BonesEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Simon O’Connor is a musician and composer from NYC. O’Connor has been releasing records with various projects for over 20 years. He is currently the touring bassist of the psychedelic pop band, MGMT, as well as the lead guitarist of Modest Mouse. He is also the bass player, co-vocalist, and founding member of Spiral Heads, who’s newest record is out February 23 via TrashCasual/AcademyFight Songs. In this episode, Joe and Simon talk punk, punk and more punk and how the newest Spiral Heads record celebrates a specific time in a punk bands life when they may be branching out from punk. Simon tells about us about his early days at ABC NO RIO, why Microsoft Word is best used inits natural habitat, and he shares the experience and beauty of hearing Marky Ramone practice alone. We also learn why Killing Joke is his favorite band, how he started playing with MGMT and shares his experience meeting Dann Gallucci from Modest Mouse. The two exchange made up words, talk the appropriateness punk t-shirts at school drop off and we hear a couple tunes. Spiral HeadsSimon O'ConnorTrash CasualEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Eva Walker is the singer and guitarist for the Seattle band The Black Tones. In this episode Eva shares her experiences with the weird practices of a bizzarro sound guy on a recent week long West Coast tour . The Black TonesEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Joseph Shabason is a songwriter, a film and TV composer and a multi-instrumentalist based in Toronto, Ontario. He has recorded and collaborated with The War On Drugs, The Operators, Destroyer, DIANA and has released several solo records. His newest record, Welcome To Hell is a concept record directly inspired by the influential 1996 Toy Machine skate video of the same name. This re-imagined soundtrack is a spacious and spacey freeish jazz odyssey that is grounded in ECM sonic textures, late 60’s Miles Davis reverberations and the very now vibes of experimental hip hop. Joseph tells us how Welcome To Hell differs from his previous records and how growing up in a rural Canada played a role in the concept. He shares the negative feedback he’s received about the record and how he’s spun it into a positive and a new perspective on art in general. We get proof that Ed Templeton is truly a wonderfully rad dude and Joseph tells us the story of Chad Muska at Welcome To Hell video premier. Joe cures Joseph of Covid and we hear a few tunes.Joseph ShabasonEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Mary Timony is a singer, songwriter, and guitar wizard from Washington DC. For the past 30 years she has fronted, founded, toured, and recorded with such celebrated and influential bands as Autoclave, Helium, Ex Hex and Wild Flag. Her fifth solo release, Untame The Tiger (out February 23 via Merge) is a beautifully elaborate guitar pop, riff driven record that touches on familial loss, emotional freedom and psychic shift. In this episode Mary tells us how an onslaught of simultaneous dramatic experiences changed her perspective personally and artistically and how music brought her closer to her ailing father. She shares her experience of recording with the great Dave Mattacks, mixing with Dave Fridmann and gives some in-sight into the process of co-producing with longtime friend, Joe Wong. We also hear about her first punk show, how she avoids “rote playing” and shares the funny and harsh experience that led her to quitting the viola. We hear a few tunes and Mary tells us not one, but three hilarious tour stories.Mary TimonyWild FlagEX HexEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Joe speaks with John Familglietti, bass player, founding member and songwriter from the band HEALTH. Following two widely collaborative records, HEALTH’S newest record, Rat Wars (out 12.7 via Loma Vista), is proving to be the bands most inner focused, vulnerable, and sonically generous output yet. In this episode Joe and John discuss the San Diego scene where John grew up, how John was introduced to punk music and the show that changed his life. John tells us why he thinks Rat Wars is this best HEATLH record so far, how it came from a position of strength and he shares how the band’s recording process has evolved over the years. We learn the origin of HEALTH’S uniform/branded album artwork, how The Door’s influenced the decision the call the new album Rat Wars and we hear a couple new songs.HEALTHEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

This episode is special because it's the first tour story Joe captured. His pal Kyle Crane, drummer, songwriter, and producer from Los Angeles, tells us how his band experienced a vegetable oil spill, an overheat, a poison ivy infection, and a pedestrian hit and run all in the span of 48 hours. We also hear a few tunes from Kyle's record "Crane Like The Bird" (featuring James Mercer). Kyle CraneEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments

Matt Pryor a singer, songwriter, podcaster and author form Lawrence, Kansas. He is a founding member of the Get Up Kids, The New Amsterdam’s and host’s the podcast Nothing To Write Home About and 25 Years On The Street. His debut memoir, Red Letter Days (out 1.23.24 Washed Up Book) is taken from journal entries between 1990-2000 and is made up of short vignettes that follows his life as a musician growing up, pursing the dream of success and his earliest experiences touring. He also shares his early childhood growing up in Lawrence and his struggle with childhood diabetes. In this episode, Matt shares how writer Frank Turner encouraged him to write his memoir, why the book helped him hit a welcomed rock bottom and why finishing the book put into a depression. He explains how a simple writing exercise evolved into Red Letter Days, why the editing process was foreign to him and how songwriting and story writing are similar in his process. Joe and Matt discuss the beauty and positivity of “the pit” and they discover they were born in the same hospital along with their mutual pal Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe.Episode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Vera Sola is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and poet based in Los Angeles, CA. Her newest album, Peacemaker (out February 2 via City Slang) is a sprawling and lyrically ferocious follow up her first record Shades and will take the listener on a joyfully painful sonic journey through the cinematic west. In this episode Vera tells us how cinematic framing shaped the new record, why anger may be the driving energy and why she was "psychotic" about the final mix. Vera shares how a plant ceremony inspired her to make her first record, why David Beeman’s patience was crucial to her finishing the record and how Peacemaker's process was different. Joe and Vera talk retirement in the New York City, and we hear a couple tunes.Vera SolaCity SlangEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments

Brett Netson is a guitarist, singer and song-writer from Boise, Idaho. He has toured and recorded extensively with Built To Spill, Mark Lanegan, Earth and is a founding member of Caustic Resin. His most recent contribution is a re-imagined version of Teeth Of Lions Rule The Divine by Earth, and is out now on special "low frequency" re-release of the classic Earth 2 record on Sub Pop Records. In this episode, the longtime friends and forever ago bandmates discuss the state of "work", why Brett quit playing music for a short period of time, and what brought him back. Brett shares his thoughts on the healthy benefits of Drone music, how it enhances his life and why singular thought is beneficial. We learn what is the glue that binds Brett and Dylan Carlson's musical relationship, why Brett found himself having to choose between not ONE but TWO deals with the devil and he explains the process of tearing apart and rebuilding an Earth song on his own. Brett and Joe make fun of themselves and we hear a few magnificent tunes.Brett Netson EarthSub PopEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Lindsey Troy and Julie Edwards are the drummer and guitarist respectively for the Los Angeles based band, Deap Vally. Since 2011 they have recorded and released four LP's three EP's and have consistently toured the world. On February 1st , they will release Sistrionix 2.0, a newly recorded version of their 2011 LP Sistrionix. In this episode, we hear what motivated the two to form a band, how early childhood experiences influenced their interest in performance and why a knitting shop brought them together. Lindsey and Julie share their un-healthy and stressful stint on a major label, why they re-recorded their record and the magic ingredient on the new recording. They discuss the compatibility of both being in a band and a mom, what it's like touring with kids and what the future for Deap Vally holds.Deap VallyEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments

Shilpa Ray is a singer, songwriter and a multi-instrumentalist based in Queens, NY. She has been recording, releasing and touring on records in various incarnations from 2006 to the present. Her most recent release, Portrait Of A Lady (via Northern Spy Records) is her most personal, direct record to date, and delivers a jarring honesty that keeps the listener engrossed in the wide batch of sonic and lyrical intensity. In this episode Shilpa tells us why her first instrument was a harmonium, how The Side Walk Cafe's nurturing environment help her get her start in live performance and why drums and time keeping are so important to her. She tells us how the combination of a sound check with Andrew Bird and an image of Nan Golden re-illuminated the importance of art in her life and inspired her to write a record focused on her own personal experiences. We learn who the bootlickers are in the song Bootlickers Of The Patriarchy, she tells us a wild tour story thank involves Rick James's gravestone and we hear a couple tunes.Shilpa RayNorthern Spy RecordsEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments

Jim McCullough is a founding member and singer for the Melbourne based proto-punk band Civic. Civic has embarked on their first North American tour with three-pronged support of their most recent single Hourglass, the US release of their record New Vietnam and their most recent record, Taken By Force (all available via ATO Records). In this episode, Joe and Jim discuss the punk evolution of the band in a relatively short amount of time, what drives them to write great songs and why it's important to keep rock n roll alive. Jim tells us why the Civic live show is different from the recordings, how it relates to his background in music and he shares a bit of the Civic cooperative writing/recording process. We get Jim's impression of the first US Civic tour, his take on IHOP and we hear a couple tunes.CIVICATO RECORDS Episode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeEpisode supported by Native Instruments

Justin Moyer is a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and founding member of Washington D.C. dance punkers, Light Beams. He's also an original member or El Guapo, Antelope and a reporter for The Washington Post, where his work with the Post team was honored with a Pulitzer Prize for their coverage of the January 6th Capitol insurrection. Light Beams newest record, Wild Life is out November 3rd via Dischord Records/Mud Memory. In this episode, Justin shares his firsthand experience with a school shooting, which is directly addressed in Light Beams current single, Coming Our Way. We hear about his musical education in Philadelphia, why he added more members to Light Beams and why he prefers to write songs vertically rather than horizontally. They talk biking on tour, Justin's process of balancing two time consuming vocations and he delivers breaking news on the rock n roll origin of his byline. Joe discovers a secret sound on the new record and we hear a couple tunes.Light BeamsDischord RecordsEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope

Jenny Pulse is a visual artist, singer, songwriter and one half of the collaborative duo, Tim Kinsella and Jenny Pulse. They're newest release, Giddy Skelter (out now via Kill Rock Stars), is a multi-textured collage of live instrumentation, samples, electro beats and experimental hooks. The recording is accompanied by a beautifully written zine titled Giddy Skelter : A Case Study. How to Make The Album You're Trying To Make, which functions as an illustration and manual to the process of making the record. In this episode Jenny shares how a karaoke rig and an old synthesizer were the gateway to her learning composition and arrangement. She tells us how the accompanying zine is a document of a new process of making a recording, how trips to the art institute influenced their song evolution and why she prefers mixing in a studio. The two discuss why untethering from the computer is a cure for the CPU blues, why band names make you feel like a teenager, and we hear a couple tunes.Episode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by IzotopeJenny Pulse Tim KinsellaKill Rock Stars

Caleb Nichols is a poet and singer/songwriter from San Luis Obispo, CA. He has written, toured and recorded with Churches, Port O'Brian and many solo endeavors. Caleb is a PhD candidate in Creative and Critical Writing at Bangor University in Wales where he's writing about queer ecopoetics in contemporary poetry, films, and media. His poetry and prose have been published worldwide. His newest record Lets Looks Back, is out on October 13th via Kill Rock Stars. In this episode Caleb tell us why he stopped playing music for nearly eight years, what took its place and why a special opportunity lured him back in. He shares his writing process for Let's Look Back and why and a team effort turned him into a fan of his own record. Caleb and Joe bust out a few shared tour stories, they coin the term "dog poverty" and we hear how Caleb balances, separates and combines his two practices, poetry and music. We get an update on the UK DIY touring scene and we hear a couple tunes from Lets Look Back.Caleb NicholsKill Rock StarsEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

James Bertram is a bass player, guitarist and founding member of Northwest indie luminaries Lync. He has also toured and recorded with Built To Spill, 764-HERO, Beck and Red Stars Theory. This episode not only celebrates James's experiences in the 90's DIY scene, but the re-issue of Lync's 1994 record, These Are Not Fall Colors, out via Suicide Squeeze records October 20th. James takes through his journey of the far-reaching communal music scene that supported Lync, his peers, and his many other endeavors. Joe and James talk outfits, venues and general vibe of the slightly grunge adjacent scene in 90's Seattle. . We get a closer look into Lync's formation, various recording processes and the success of the band. James gives us a run-down of his rock n roll lineage and we hear a couple Lync bangers.Suicide SqueezeEpisode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope

Juicebumps is a zany no-wave tinged post punk four piece based in Oakland, CA. With an ever-changing and strong visual aesthetic, Juicebump's look, performance and supporting graphic design carries the band as much as their heavy synthesizer base and angular guitar hooks. Their new record Jumbo is out October 13 on Rocks In you Head Records. In this episode, Joe talks with Parker, Spencer and Shaina on the origin of Juicebumps, how a fear of boredom drives their artistic output and why the goal of the band is to make people move on the dance floor. The band shares their collaborative process, how 90's cartoons are a visual influence and we hear a couple tunes.Episode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Jenn Champion is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Los Angeles. She is a founding member of the legendary gloomers Carris's Wierd, recorded 4 records under the moniker "S" and now releases material and performs as Jenn Champion. Her newest self produced release, The Last Night of Sadness (out Oct. 13 via Gay Forever) is a rich and confident journey, tinged with heavy synth/pop riffs and hip hop nods, all coated in with a sheen of real life darkness and humor. In this episode, Jenn's shares her life and musical experience "pre-Carrisas Wierd" and how the band's relevance periodically bumbles into her orbit. Jenn and Joe discuss her view on success vs. fame and how the new record went from "small" demos to a much larger pop production. Jenn tells us why the new release feels more like a realized piece of art, how horror soundtracks had an influence on the production and we hear a few tunes.Episode supported by DistrokidEpisode supported by Izotope

Season 5 debut with Vice Cooler! Vice Cooler is an artist, musician, producer, director, and photographer based in Los Angeles, California. As a teenager, Vice co-founded the influential no wave band XBXRX in Mobile, Alabama and later he became a member of The Raincoats along with touring as a member of Chicks on Speed. Vice has gone on to work with Peaches, Linda Lindas, Kim Gordon, Ladytron, Deerhoof and dozens of other artists in production, performance and video capacities. In this episode we hear how Thrash Palace, his newest effort with EMA and Sarah Register, was formed and signed to Sub Pop following a 48-hour recording session. Vice shares his experiences of growing up in the Mobile music scene and how one show likely put him on the artistic trajectory he remains on to this day. Joe and Vice discuss the his collaborative process, why he likes to work quickly and how he views his overall output. Vice declares his love for theme parks and we hear a couple Thrash Palace tunes.If you are liking Tour Stories, please subscribe and tell a friend. Thanks!This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software.Check it all out at IzotopeAnd.....I want to welcome our newest sponsor to the show Distrokid! Distrokid helps musicians get their music on all the major streaming platforms and artists keep 100% of their royalties. Tour Stories listeners get 30% off at distrokid.com/vip/tourstories.Vice CoolerSup Pop

This week Tour Stories presents Ruinous Medias newest podcast Hyphenate with Randy Randall. On today’s Hyphenate with Randy Randall, Randy sits down with legendary Skateboarder/Photographer/Guitarist Ray Barbee to talk all things skate, music, and photos. Getting started skating in the early 80’s and continuing to follow the creative stoke through music and photography. Ray is a legend in the Skateboard industry for not only his skills on the board but also his contributions to the culture of skateboarding through his amazing black and white photography as well as his groove on guitar documented on his many solo LP’s. Learn more at ruinousmedia.com/hyphenate.This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software.Check it all out at IzotopeRay Barbee Links:https://www.vans.com/en-us/team/skate/ray-barbeehttps://www.instagram.com/r.barbee/?hl=enhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/2XgTFrmbSf8V98EtcQSp2n?si=4xIyTYDzSIacOvSu-0qMighttps://www.merchbar.com/vinyl-records/ray-barbeeRandy’s Gear links:https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/ETSPVSGH--epiphone-sheraton-ii-pro-vintage-sunbursthttps://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DD8--boss-dd-8-digital-delay-pedalhttps://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DVP4--dunlop-dvp4-volume-x-mini-pedalhttps://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PhilosMicro--pigtronix-philosophers-tone-micro-compressor-sustain-pedalhttps://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/SugarDrive--mxr-m294-sugar-drive-overdrive-pedalhttps://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/WhiteyTighty--jhs-whitey-tighty-mini-fet-compressor-pedalhttps://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/AcapulcoV2--earthquaker-devices-acapulco-gold-v2-distortion-pedal

Ryan Patterson is the singer, song-writer, guitarist and founding member of Fotocrime, a cinematic tinged post-punk synth-electropop band based in Louisville. Their fourth record, Accelerated (out on Artoffact Records September 8th) takes the band a step further into the dark wave, this time with a richer melodic landscape and more inclusive genre portfolio. In this episode Ryan shares his lyrical process and inspiration for the new record and how it connects to previous releases. He tells us about his experience of growing up in rural Kentucky as a DC scene obsessed kid and how that influenced his industrious work ethic in both his music and successful non-music endeavors. We learn how he beat his allergy to cats and hear a few new tunes.FotocrimeArtofact RecordsCat Magic PunksShirt KillerThis episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software.Check it all out at Izotope Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Tim Rutili is a musician, film maker, visual artist and founding member of Califone. The newest record, villagers (out now vie jealous butcher) is a celebration of noise, experimental soundscape and elegant melody garnished with the silk of 70's AM radio and the smooth of classic pop. In this episode Tim tells us how death is a motivator behind his 30+ year musical journey and why the search continues. He explains the ridiculous notion behind the song the habsburg jaw, why he considers himself an "anarchic noise maker" and why he see's beauty in dissonance. Joe and Tim discuss their pointillist based recording project and we hear a few tunes from the new record.tim rutilijealous butcherThis episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software.Check it all out at Izotope Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Sarah Mary Chadwick is a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist based in Melbourne. She will release her eighth studio record Messages To God on September 15th via Kill Rock Stars. Produced by Tony Espie, this playful and raw romp through personal darkness leaves the listener "entertained" and surprisingly optimistic. In this episode Sarah shares the reason for her early piano training and how it played a role in her early childhood home-life. She tells us how the low entry barrier of the of her local hardcore scene allowed her to get involved in live performance and why she stuck with it. Joe and Sarah discuss the notion of being an "entertainer", how Tetris is a model for her lyrical progression and we hear a few tunes from Messages To God. For more: Sarah Mary ChadwickKill Rock StarsThis episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software.Check it all out at Izotope Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

This week Joe shares a tour story from a show in Conway, Arkansas with The Black Heart Procession in 2002. What could go wrong could go right.This episode is supported by Izotope. For a limited time, use code FRET10 for a discount on all software.Check it all out at Izotope