Tour Stories/The Check-In with Joe Plummer

Jessica Boudreaux is a songwriter, guitarist and producer from Portland, Oregon. Though best known for her band Summer Cannibals, Jessica has recently released a solo EP entitled I Think My Heart Loves To Break that she self produced over the past two years, in which she not only endured an involuntary break in touring, she was also diagnosed with breast cancer. In this episode, Joe and Jessica discuss her response to her diagnosis, the massive change it brought to her life and how she kept herself from being lost in the illness. She shares how her perspective on touring has changed, how making the new record served as a life raft and why making a "pop" record has always been an interesting challenge to her. We hear a couple tunes from I Think My Heart Loves To Break, out now.https://jessicaboudreaux.bandcamp.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

We would like to welcome Zach Blair and his newest podcast ANTI-HEROES to the Ruinous Media Network!!!!!Anti-Heroes is a podcast about guitar players that aren't on the covers of the guitar magazines but our host, Zach Blair thinks they should be. Each episode we'll have discussions with players about their motivations, intentions and, best of all, their gear. We'll talk about their careers and how they express themselves in the constantly changing world of guitar music.Zach Blair is lifelong guitar obsessive with a career spanning almost thirty years. From his early days in Hagfish that he started with his brother on to the world renowned shock rock musical theater that is GWAR to currently recording and touring in Chicago's Rise Against for the last 15 years. Zach is still searching when it's comes to guitar playing and always will be. Maybe he'll find some answers right here on Anti-Heroes.Anti-Heros is proudly sponsored by Jim Dunlop and MXR pedals.https://www.jimdunlop.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software.visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html@thetourstoriesMentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Jason McGerr is a producer, song-writer and the drummer for Death Cab For Cutie. In this episode drummer pals Joe and Jason discuss Asphalt Meadows, the newest record from DCFC since 2018. Jason shares the extraordinary collective process in making the new record, why it was so satisfying and whats behind the ferocity of Roman Candles, the first single. Of course Joe and Jason dig into drums, drum fitness on tour and why Jason is obsessed with making odd times feel straight. We also learn why his nick name is "CJ" on tour. We hear a couple of Joes favorite DCFC songs. https://www.deathcabforcutie.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Andy Butler is a DJ, producer, songwriter and founding member of Hercules and Love Affair. After a five year break, Hercules and Love Affairs new record In Amber brings long time collaborator and co-producer ANOHNI back into the fold, along with english drummer Budgie and singer Elin Eythordsdottir. In Amber is a dark, jagged and heavy journey that questions faith, false narratives assigned by social and religious constructs and ultimately celebrates perseverance and individual strength. In this episode Andy catches us up on his projects over the last few years, how Black Metal plays a role on In Amber and he shares the process of making a multi-personnel, multi-genre influenced record. Joe and Andy discuss the message and sonics extremities on In Amber, why it's both a rejection of religion and a search for the spiritual, and how it addresses the disconnection to nature. We also hear how Budgie changed the sonic nature of In Amber and why Andy is going back to touring with a larger band. We hear two songs from In Amber.https://www.skintentertainment.com/artist/hercules-love-affair/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Laura Veirs is a visual artist, singer and songwriter from Portland, Oregon. On her newest record Found Light, (out July 8th on Raven Marching Band Records), she addresses not only the loss of a spouse and working partner to divorce, but the hardship of breaking away from the intermeshed identity that is the product of a longterm relationship. In this episode Laura shares her experience of recording alone for the first time, what did and didn't work and why working with a new production partner proved to be a gratifying and liberating step in her career. Joe and Laura discuss the process of making Found Light, why she's choosing to tour solo and we hear a couple tunes. https://www.lauraveirs.com/https://lauraveirs.bandcamp.com/album/found-lightUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Spencer Moody is a poet, visual artist, songwriter and vocalist for the The Murder City Devils, Triumph Of Lethargy Skinned Alive To Death and more recently, M.Krebs. In this episode Spencer catches us up on his new life on The Big Island and how being a stranger in a strange land has influenced his work. Joe and Spencer discuss the process and inspiration behind both the M.krebs record AND his newest project with Joe Jack Talcum, a split LP on This and That Tapes. We hear a couple tunes from M.Krebs and end with a very special story about Joe and Spencers friend, the late great Sam Jayne. https://mkrebs.bandcamp.com/releaseshttps://thisandthattapes.com/releases/spencer-moody-joe-jack-talcum-splithttp://jacktalcum.com/index.phpSponsored by https://www.izotope.comUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Torquil Campbell is a founding member, singer, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter for the band Stars. He is also an actor, a play-write and podcaster. Stars are getting ready to hit the road in support of their newest release From Capelton Hill (out May 27th on Last Gang Records/MNRK). Torquil shares the story behind the title of the record, his historic relationship with North Hatley and why it's his only real sense of home. Joe and Torquil discuss the sentiment that carries the record and how he and Amy Millan (singer/guitarist) are evolving towards more of a first person perspective in their lyrics. He also catches us up on the plethora of projects he's been involved in in the last couple of years, the problems of trying too hard and he shares a golden piece of song writing advice from his father in law. Of course, hear a couple tunes from From Capelton Hill .https://starsband.bandcamp.com/https://shop.lastgang.com/blogs/news/stars-share-new-single-capelton-hill-expand-tour-datesUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

Charity Rose Thielen is a founding member, vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter for The Head and the Heart. Their latest record, Every Shade of Blue is out now and the band is preparing for an extensive North American tour. Joe caught up with Charity between rehearsals in Nashville. In this episode, Joe and Charity discuss the multi-producer process of making Every Shade of Blue , what sort of freedoms it provided and how it fell in line with the bands desire to go back to a more internal collaboration. Charity tells us why she appreciated the universal break most musicians took and how that contributes to her appreciation of touring and performing again. She also shares her personal songwriting process, the influence of drums in her writing and the reality of living with someone who is both her partner in life and in her band. We hear a couple songs from Every Shade of Blue.Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Σtella is a painter, singer and songwriter from Athens, Greece. Her Sub Pop debut, Up and Away is a lush, vintage pop odyssey that both adheres to traditional Greek sounds and explores current indie textures. In this episode, Σtella shares how her relationship with music ultimately helped her overcome shyness and why Greek melody has a grounding effect. We learn how producer Tom Calvert (aka Redinho) and Σtella teamed up and why their common influences made for an effortless working relationship. Σtella gives us the story behind the cover art and we hear a couple tunes from Up and Away.https://stellawithasigma.com/https://stellawithasigma.bandcamp.com/album/the-breakhttps://www.subpop.com/artists/stellaUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Etta Friedman and Allegra Weingarten are collectively the singers, songwriters and guitarists for Momma. Their new record Household Name (out July 1st on Polyvinyl Records) is not only a beautifully riff heavy nod to their 90's influences, its a thoughtful, personal and dynamic listen from start to finish. In this episode Etta and Allegra discuss their recording process and why self control is key when you have an unlimited amount of time in the studio. They share their point of view on 90's music, culture and why femme people playing guitar has transcended to the present. Joe, Etta and Allegra dig into the production ideas on Household Name , what they love about touring and the power of the pre-chorus. We hear two rockers from Household Name. https://polyvinylrecords.com/product/household_namehttps://www.mommaband.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Lou Barlow is a singer, song-writer and founding member of Dinosaur Jr., Sebadoah and The Folk Implosion. Though known for his contribution to the "low fi" scene of the 80's and 90's, Lou has his roots in hardcore, punk and even the folk/country superstar Glen Campbell. After a 20+ year break, The Folk Implosion (Lou Barlow and John Davis) have released two new songs that without a doubt retain the pop/experimental beauty the duo achieved consistently in the past. Lou tells us what sparked the reunion. In this episode Lou also shares why he felt he should be worrying about his worrying, how a couple of self help books got him through a challenging time and even motivated him to make a handful of holiday specials. Joe and Lou talk hardcore, crossover metal and most importantly, Lou tells us why he's a 7seconds snob. Joe and Lou share a couple tour stories and we hear the new Folk Implosion tunes. https://thefolkimplosion.bandcamp.com/album/feel-it-if-you-feel-it-2http://www.loobiecore.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Will Brooks (aka MC Dälek) is a founding member, vocalist and producer for the group Dälek. For close to 20 years Will has been releasing dark, experimental hip-hop records and collaborating with a wide range of like minded artists that include Kid 606, Faust, The Black Heart Procession and Techno Animal. In this episode Joe and Will discuss the process of making the new Dälek record Precipice (out 4.29 on Ipecac Records), why he abandoned the first version and how Adam Jones from Tool wound up contributing to a song. Will tells us how his collection of improvisational recordings known as Meditations got him through the last couple years of not touring and why the outcome surprised both him and his listeners. He also shares his view on music and touring as a vocation and why he's grateful for any visceral reaction to his music, whether it's positive or negative. Joe and Will remember sharing a stage at the ATP festival and we hear a couple tunes from Precipice. https://deadverse.com/https://www.ipecac.com/artists/dalekUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

This week we salute our partnership with The High Gain Podcast, a podcast that celebrates the guitar. Each week John Kieltyka and Ed Peterson will introduce you to a guitar, share its cultural significance and provide you a slew of questionable (and likely very funny) facts on its origin and history. You'll laugh, you'll cry and you'll realize that this podcast is not just for guitar enthusiasts, but anyone who enjoys a good time. Episode 206 The CBS-Fender deal went down in 1965, but the story started well before then. Enjoy!- 1966 Fender Stratocasterhttps://www.thehighgain.com/podcast/66-stratocasterhttps://www.ruinousmedia.com/thehighgainUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Brian Cook is a bass guitarist and song-writer from Seattle. He's an active member of Russian Circles and Sumac, writing, recording and touring extensively. After a ten year break, his band These Arms Are Snakes with be playing a handful of shows in celebration of the release of Duct Tape and Shivering Crows, a collection of rarities, covers and demos out April 15th on Suicide Squeeze Records. In this episode, Joe and Brian discuss how a recent break has helped him recognize his autonomy, why his solo record made him a better band member and the importance of rehearsing chaos as well as the music. Not only a musician, Brian is a freelance writer, has published one novel (The Second Chair Is Meant For You) and is working on a second. He shares his view on the difference between writing words verses writing music and how imperfection plays a role in both art forms. Joe and Brian swop a couple "sleeping in the van" stories and we hear some tunes from Duct Tape and Shivering Crows.https://store.suicidesqueeze.net/https://thesearmsaresnakes.bandcamp.com/album/duct-tape-shivering-crowshttps://russiancirclesband.com/brian-cookUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Gavin McCarthy is a drummer and songwriter from Boston, MA. He's written, recorded and toured with a multitude of bands and projects over the last two decades, with his main efforts focussed on E and Karate. After a long period of chasing down the masters, Karate is re-releasing their entire catalog with the Numero Group. In this episode Gavin catches us up on his life during the involuntary break, gives us the low down on the Boston venue scene and tells us how taking a break from music changed his self-identity. He also gives us his thoughts on reunion tours, why he's looking forward to this summers Karate dates and why the concept of a live record is odd. Joe and Gavin swop a couple stories that celebrate the beauty and chaos of touring in Italy and we hear a couple Karate tunes. https://www.gavinmccarthy.com/https://karateallston.bandcamp.com/https://numerogroup.com/search?q=Karate&options%5Bprefix%5D=lastUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Joel Jerome is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Los Angeles, CA. His solo debut, Super Flower Blood Moon (Dangerbird Records) hits the streets on May 13th, and promises a dark, folky trip that celebrates his 90's indie rock influences as much and it pays homage to his latin roots. In this episode Joel tells us how the pandemic opened his eyes to activism, how that's translated to his work with The Union of Musicians and Allied Workers (UMAW) and why unions are important to working musicians. We hear how his long time pal Jim Fairchild (Modest Mouse, Grandaddy, All Smiles) had a hand in the early stages of Super Flower Blood Moon and why it was different from past records. Joel also share's his view on "capturing recordings" verses "producing" and how thats applied in his own studio, Psychedelic Thriftstore. Joe plays a couple tunes from the new record and Joel tells us where's he's looking forward to touring in 2022. https://dangerbirdrecords.com/https://joeljeromemusic.bandcamp.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Mark Watrous is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and a producer. He's recorded and toured extensively with The Shins, Shudder To Think, The Raconteurs and is a founding member of Loudermilk and Earl Burrows. Before hearing a pair of tour stories involving a reckless tour manager and a meth fueled ill-planned show in Sandpoint, Idaho, Joe and Mark catch up. We hear what Marks been up during the Shins break and he reminds us that WE'RE All waiting for vinyl. We hear Joe's favorite Earl Burrows tune and..........BONUS!!!!!! the debut of a very special cover of The Fixx's One Thing Leads To Another performed by Mark, Joe and Nate Mendel.https://www.theshins.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Walt Disco is a young stylish band from Glasgow. Over the last two years they wrote, recorded and self produced their debt album, Unlearning (Out April 1st on Lucky Number Music). In this episode Joe talks with 2 members of the sextet, singer James and keyboardist/guitarist Finley. James and Finely share the process of making Unlearning , why they wanted it to sound "scrappy", how that forced them to think differently and why self producing gave them a sense of childlike wonderment. We learn what drives them to have a strong stylized aesthetic and they share a couple stories from their experience playing the Celine show in Paris. They also discuss the influence of new wave AND no wave and tell us what they love about touring. We hear a couple tunes from Unlearning. https://waltdisco.bandcamp.com/musichttps://www.luckynumbermusic.com/releases/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Sam Tallent has earned his PhD in touring as a stand-up comedian, an author and drummer. He's been on the road since his late teens, has a best selling novel and an ever growing career in comedy to show for it. Joe and Sam discuss his current reluctance to become a parent, why it was good for him to be something other than a comedian over the involuntary break and what touring feels like now. Joe gets a lesson on the hierarchy of comedy performance, and not only do they discuss Sams newest novel Running the Light, but we hear a gorgeous passage read by the author himself. We also hear a couple numbers from Sam's punk band Big City Drugs.https://www.samtallent.com/https://bigcitydrugs.bandcamp.com/album/human-cargoUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Chris is the bass player for Jawbreaker. After a 20 year hiatus and a 2 year pandemic break, they are back with sold out shows across North America. Chris tells us what he's been up to over the break, why he went the academia route, and why he ultimately abandoned it. Joe and Chris talk the importance of snappy dressing, the regional rules of bagels and sourdough and Chris shares both his apprehensions and excitement for returning to the road. To get you pumped on the tour, we hear a tune from Dear You (which they will be playing in entirety) and Joe's favorite song from 24 Hour Revenge Therapy. Music by Jawbreaker and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

This week Joe talks to Alan Sparhawk and Mimi Parker from the band Low. They share both the difficult and productive experience they've had at home over the last two years and why the pandemic effected them more than expected. They discuss the process of making their new Grammy nominated record Hey What (out now on Sub Pop records), how the final sound was established in the writing process and why Alan is taking a new approach to his guitar sound. With several shows booked in Europe and the U.S., Alan and Mimi express their excitement and apprehension of touring and what they’re most looking forward to. Joe raves over the videos that accompany Hey What and we hear a couple tunes. https://lowtheband.bandcamp.com/https://www.subpop.com/artists/lowVisit out sponsor https://www.izotope.com/ for a 10% discount.Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidSchecter GuitarsIzotope

Kassie is a founding member, singer and lyricist for Guerilla Toss. In this episode Kassie and Joe discuss her life at home during the involuntary touring break, what happens when her "home life" and "rock n roll" life meet and why she's looking forward to getting back on the road and supporting Famously Alive (out March 25th on Sub Pop Records). Kassie shares how her close friend and collaborator helped her kick a heroin habit and why that relationship is so important to the new record. She also explains how the video for the single was born out of a stress nap and why her dog Watley is built for touring. We hear the new single, Cannibal Capitol and close the episode with Betty Dreams of Green Men from GT Ultra. https://www.subpop.com/https://guerillatoss.bandcamp.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

This week Joe has a vibrant conversation with Bonnie Bloomgarden, singer, songwriter and founding member of Death Valley Girls. Bonnie and Joe discuss the impact that touring has had on her life, how a recent tour has served as version of exposure therapy. and why the involuntary break has positively changed both her life at home and her perspective of life on the road. Bonnie tells us how hypnosis plays a role in her song writing and why she feels lucky that her favorite animal is a dog. We hear a new tune from the Death Valley Girls/Le Butcherettes split 7” on Suicide Squeeze Records and Bonnie hips us to her new paranormal podcast, Death Valley Girls Podcasthttps://suicidesqueeze.net/https://deathvalleygirls.bandcamp.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Nile Marr is a singer, songwriter and guitarist from Manchester, England. He's been making records and touring for most of his young adult life. Though he grew up in Manchester, Nile spent his formable years in Portland Oregon, absorbing the vibes of Modest Mouse, The Shins, The Thermals and other PNW rock n rollers. When he's not supporting his solo efforts, he's on the road with Hans Zimmerman, filling in for his dad, Johnny Marr. In this episode Nile shares a few funny tales from the life of a DIY musician, both at home and the road. He tells us why trying to convince himself that playing shows is no longer important failed and what motivated him to keep writing over the pandemic. We hear two new tunes from his newest release How We Drift on Park The Van Records. Music by Nile Marr and Joe Plummer https://www.parkthevan.com/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BTBLAIeqhUhttps://nilemarr.bandcamp.com/album/how-we-driftUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

This week Joe talks with Maria and Matthew from MAITA. They discuss the process of making their new record I Just Want To Be Wild For You (out February 18th on Kill Rock Stars), life in Portland Oregon over the last couple years and how a space heater contributed to their sanity preservation. Maria explains why she see's loneliness as luxury and why it's precious to her. Joe plays Road Song, a tune which illustrates the circular monotony of touring, something most musicians are presently longing for. Matthew and Maria tell us why they feel most "alive" on tour, share a few tour survival techniques and why the experience of spending time with people you don't know is important. Music by MAITA and Joe Plummerhttps://killrockstars.com/blogs/news/maita-announces-album-releases-single-videohttps://maita.bandcamp.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Janet Weiss is a drummer, multi-instrumentalist and all around stand-up rock n roll human from Portland, Oregon. In this episode Janet shares her experience making the new Quasi and why it was important to be in "touring shape" prior to going into the studio. Joe and Janet discuss how her recovery from a serious car accident may have prepped her for the involuntary touring break most musicians have endured and how's she's put her "doer" personality into practice in order to feel good, or at the very least, not feel bad. Naturally, the two drummers talk Get Back, Ringo, Neil Peart, Stella Mazgowa and why too many peacocks in one band is a bad idea. Another thing that Joe and Janet have in common is their love for cars. You'll hear about a few of Janets favorite cars, what she prefers to tour in and why. New Segment alert! Borrowing from Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee, Joe and Janet play Drummers In Their Favorite Cars Getting Coffee With Their Favorite Drummers. You'll be surprised by their choices!We hear a rare recording of Quasi covering New Zealand's The 3D's and a new song from Janet's band with Drew Grow, Slang. Music by Quasi, Slang and Joe Plummerhttps://www.instagram.com/theeslang/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/RealSlang/https://theequasi.bandcamp.com/https://www.instagram.com/thee.quasi/?hl=enhttps://drewgrow.bandcamp.com/album/the-comfort-feelUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

We have recovered the lost Mister Heavenly interview with Carrboro's finest journalist, Tim Dibbins. As usual, Tim brings the truth to the surface, stopping at nothing to get to the core of songwriting, inner band relationships and what makes Mister Heavenly tick as a powerful trio. We see sides of Nick, Ryan and Joe that have never been revealed and though at times uncomfortable, this interview provides us with an insight that has been lazily overlooked by journalist since the bands inception. Let Tim lead you into the percussive depths of Mister Heavenly's motivation and creative essence. Bonus: a mini playlist of Mister Heavenly tunes chosen by the band!Music by Joe Plummer and Mister Heavenlyhttps://www.polyvinylrecords.com/https://www.subpop.com/ Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Cedric Noel is a Niger born singer and songwriter living in Montreal, Quebec. His newest release, Hang Time (out now on Joyful Noise Recordings ) is a lush mixture of melody, looped phrasing and ambient hooks. In this episode Joe and Cedric discuss the power of interlocking melodies and rhythms, how ambiance plays a role in his songwriting, the path of musical influence and why he may feel “weird” about some of the songs he’s written. Cedric also hints at the direction of his next project and we hear a few tunes from Hang Time. Music by Cedric Noel and Joe Plummerhttps://www.joyfulnoiserecordings.com/https://cedricnoelmusic.bandcamp.com/album/hang-timeUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories

José Medeles is a multi-instrumentalist, a composer, a world renowned business owner (Revival Drum Shop) and a writer. In this episode and Joe and José talk Marc Ribot, how his shop survived that last 2 years, the benefits of embracing "slowness" and why he may need to do "musical pushups" before certain listening experiences. They also discuss his new book, A Drummers Ethos, what gave him the confidence to write it and why the writing process is a fun experience for him. In addition to his new book, José has recorded a new John Fahey tribute album, Railroad Cadences and Melancholic Anthems (out spring 2022 on Jealous Butcher Records) . We hear a few tunes and talk about the recording process. Music by José Medeles and Joe Plummer.https://josemedeles.com/https://www.jealousbutcher.com/https://www.revivaldrumshop.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidSchecter GuitarsIzotope

Zach Blair is a seasoned guitarist and vocalist from Texas. For over 20 years, Zach has been touring, writing and recording with various hardcore and punk bands, most notably, GWAR and Rise Against. In this episode Joe and Zach talk recent touring experiences, the idea of identity loss during the involuntary rock and roll break, what real Texas is like outside the "island of Austin" and of course, the new Beatles documentary, Get Back. We also hear a few tunes from the newest live Rise Against EP, Nowhere Sessions (Loma Vista Recordings). And bonus! Zach gives us a short, but powerful tour story from his days with GWAR. https://www.riseagainst.com/https://www.lomavistarecordings.com/Music by Rise Against and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Ken Andrews is a singer, guitarist, songwriter, producer and founding member of Failure. In this episode Joe and Ken discuss the poison legacy of the Trump administration and the stress that comes with a politicized public health system. Ken explains the major label debacle that is responsible for Failure's 1997 break up and why the band is a better a functioning unit in the reboot phase. We hear a couple tunes from Failures forthcoming record Wild Type Droid (out December 3 2021) and Ken shares how improvisation was influential in the recording process. Music by Failure and Joe Plummerhttps://failureband.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Johnny Marr is a guitarist, a singer, a producer and all around wonderful human. If you've listened to the radio in the last 3 decades, you've heard Johnny. He co-founded The Smiths, he was in The Pretenders, The Pet Shop Boys, formed Electronic with Bernard Sumner, was a member of The The, he was a Crib (The Cribs) , worked with Hans Zimmer on the 2021 James Bond theme, has produced 5 solo records and....closest to home for Joe, was a fellow member of Modest Mouse from 2002-2006. In this episode, Joe and Johnny talk rock n roll health, his experience as a relapsing studio rat, the importance of real connection with his listeners and how inner feelings are NOT his vehicle for writing lyrics. We hear a couple songs from his new record Fever Dreams Pts 1-4 (out end of February 2022) and discuss the recording process. And alas, Johnny shares the experience of his first week with Modest Mouse and how throwing himself into unknown waters has always been an interesting, challenging and shaping part of his life. Music by Johnny Marr, Joe Plummer and Palm FraudsArt by Zak Sallyhttps://johnnymarr.com/Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Rob Crow is a singer, guitarist and founding member of San Diego luminaries Pinback, Physics, Heavy Vegetable and Goblin Cock to name a few. His newest effort, PLOSIVS, includes John Reis (Drive Like Jehu, Hot Snakes, Rocket From the Crypt), Atom Willard (Against Me!, The Offspring) and Jordan Clark (Mrs Magician). In this episode Joe and Rob talk west coast hardcore, the process of making the new PLOSIVS record and why taking his kids on tour is so important to him. Also Rob also tells us the tale of the Jersey Devil and we hear some tunes from both his newest solo record and the new PLOSIVS single Hit The Breaks (out on Swami Records soon). All this and.....surprise! Rob gives us a couple bonus tour stories! Music by PLOSIVS, Rob Crow, Hew Time and Joe Plummerhttps://swami-records.myshopify.com/https://robcrow.bandcamp.com/http://www.tgrec.com/bands/band.php?id=17Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Nick Delffs is a singer and songwriter living in Boise, Idaho. He has toured, recorded and is a founding member of The Shaky Hands and Death Songs. More recently, Nick has focused more on his solo efforts and has found a home at Mama Bird Recording Company. In this episode Joe and Nick catch up on their time in Portland, the significance of delay in both reggae and their own music, and Nick shares his experiences traveling to India, where he may have been hypnotized. We hear a few tunes from Nicks newest record, Childhood Pastimes (out now, Mama Bird Recording Co.) and Nick tells us how a musical fast helps him with the writing process. Music by Nick Delffs, Palm Frauds and Joe Plummerhttp://www.mamabirdrecordingco.com/nick-delffsUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Zak Sally is a visual artist and musician from Minneapolis, MN. He is also the artist behind all the Tour Stories portraits. He has recorded and toured extensively with the band Low and is a founding member and songwriter for The Hand. Zak and has also written, illustrated and published several graphic novels for his publishing company La Mano and Fantagraphics. In this episode, Zak shares his experience touring with Soul Coughing and "opening" for Hole. He also us tells why seeing Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds in Seattle was one of his favorite rock n roll shows ever. Old friends Joe and Zak do a little catch up on their friendship and rehash an absolutely ridiculous conversation they had about analog recording.Music by Zak Sally and Joe Plummer Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

Charlotte Cornfield is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Toronto. Like many other musicians she spent most of 2020 writing and eventually recording a new album. The new release Highs in the Minuses (out Oct. 29 co/released on Polyvinyl and Double Double Whammy Records), is sonically simpler than her previous release, but lyrically still retains a space for personal reflection and self awareness. In this episode Joe and Charlotte discuss why she felt this new record was best suited for a band performance, how and why she got back into skateboarding and what it means for an introvert to lose social skills. Charlotte also shares her experience at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity and how that led her to her working with Howard Bilerman at Hotel2Tango. https://www.polyvinylrecords.com/artist/charlotte_cornfieldhttp://www.dbldblwhmmy.com/categories/charlotte-cornfieldMusic by Charlotte Cornfield and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Steven Bamidele is a singer, songwriter and producer from the UK by way of his birth place, Jebba, Nigeria. He is currently residing in North London. His newest neo-soul heavy EP Uncrowded (Out 10.15.21 on Park The Van Records) is a reflective look at the world from isolation and his own identity as a person of mix-race during ever expanding BLM movement. In this episode Joe and Steven discuss his growing up in Suffolk, how writing Uncrowded allowed him to untangle his thoughts on identity and why producing for others is a useful tool in expanding his own production knowledge. Steven shares his current heavy rotations and Joe and Steven exchange holiday drink recipes. Music by Steven Bamidele and Joe Plummerhttps://www.parkthevan.com/label/steven-bamidelehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz1qSaTUnx8Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Anand Wilder is a multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter. After the break up of his band Yeasayer and the onset of a global pandemic, Anand felt it was time to buckle down and start and finish and his solo record, I Don't Know My Words (out 2022 on Last Gang records). Not only did he record the record himself at his home in Brooklyn, he co-wrote, acted in and co-produced a gorgeous video for the first single Delirium Passes, which is an adaptation of the James Joyce story, The Boarding House and features actor Ben Sinclair. In this episode, Joe and Anand talk about his surprise half brother, vasectomies, Anand's drum recording technique, psychedelic frog licking and why Anand loved the process of making his video. Also, Anand explains why he's taking a "weak" trio on the road rather than a "power" trio to support his new record. And...... we get a surprise visit from the one and only Ryan Kattner, aka Honus Honus. https://lastgang.com/Music by Anand Wilder and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Buzz Osborne is a founding member, singer and guitarist for The Melvins. Buzz and The Melvins have consistently released a record and toured annually for over 30 years. In addition to The Melvins, he has toured and recorded with Fantomas and released several solo records. In this episode Buzz tells us why Jon Spencer is one of his favorite guitarist and shares his philosophy on simplicity and how it applies not just to his guitar playing, but golf, tennis and photography. We also hear a couple tunes from the new Melvins acoustic record Five Legged Dog , (October 15th Ipecac Records) how it was made and why Pete Townsend was an inspiration for the release.Music By The Melvins and Joe Plummer https://www.ipecac.com/https://www.ipecac.com/artists/melvinshttps://jonspencerbluesexplosion.com/https://www.ipecac.com/artists/fantomasUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsDistrokidIzotope

John Schmersal is a songwriter, singer and producer. For the past 20 years he has recorded and toured as the guitarist and/or keyboardist for bands Brainiac, Enon and most recently, Caribou. In this episode John shares his stories of a pantsless show and impromptu tailoring, broken bass strings and how he pulled off an entire festival show without monitors. Joe and John discuss the virtues of preparedness, the rules of shorts in rock n roll, and whether people really care if you're nude anymore. Music by Enon and Joe Plummer Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Pat Graham is an American photographer living in England, by way of Washington DC. Pat began in the early 90's DC punk scene, photographing Fugazi, The Make Up and many other Discord and local bands. He eventually made his way to another thriving scene, the Northwest, working with a young Modest Mouse and documenting the Riot Grrl scene with the likes of Bikini Kill and Bratmobile. In do time, Pat got the itch to hit the road and began photographing not just live shows, but the culture surrounding a traveling band, capturing the challenges, the good times and the bad times that comes with touring. In this episode, Pat tells us about a tooth extraction in East Berlin while traveling with June Of 44 and shares his experience touring with Modest Mouse pre Lonesome Crowded West. Music by Modest Mouse and Joe PlummerThis episode is dedicated to Matt Hoyt. Rest In Power, I know you'll get a laugh out of this one.Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars

Ryan Kattner is a singer/song writer from Los Angeles by way of Philadelphia. He's spent most of the last two decades making records and touring with his bands Man Man, Mister Heavenly and his solo project, Honus Honus. In this episode we hear how Ryans very first show led to being arrested and banned from a festival for life. Surprisingly, , that and a few other wild experiences he shares has kept Ryan rockin and rolling to this day. Music by Ryan Katner Man Man and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Thomas Hedlund is a drummer from Umeå, Sweden. His powerful multi-genre style and ability has landed him in many bands over the past 15 year, including post-metalers Cult of Luna, The Perishers, Khoma, and currently indie rock bands Deportees and Phoenix. Outside of drumming, Thomas works for a Swedish grant committee, which provides grants and financial assistance for artists in need. He tells us how difficult and rewarding the committee was during the pandemic and what he learned in the process. Joe and Thomas share their few experiences playing shows thus far in the pandemic, how the love of performing outweighs the restrictions, and what they look forward to in the coming months. They also discuss the benefits of remote recording vs. the ease of being in a room together. Of course......they talk drums, and Thomas gives us a tip on the "5 second rule".We hear a tune from Deportees. Music by Deportees and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

Sarah Peacock is a singer/songwriter from Nashville by way of Atlanta. She has released 4 studio albums, one live album and toured extensively for the past 16 years. In this episode Sarah tells how a tourbus fire becomes a tale of community support and drastically changed her outlook on songwriting and her responsibility as an artist with a platform. We also hear a song from her latest release, Burn The Witch.Music by Sarah Peacock and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidSchecter GuitarsIzotope

Sonny Kay is a singer and founding member of The VSS, Angel Hair and Year Future. He also owned and operated the independent record label Gold Standard Laboratories (GSL) and has released a book featuring his record art and design. In this episode we hear about Sonny's new endeavor, Low Key Arts, a non-profit arts organization in Hot Springs, Arkansas and how the pandemic aloud them to regroup and become stronger. Joe and Sonny also discuss their time touring together, revisit some ridiculous tour hacks and what the future of touring may look like. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeSchecter GuitarsDistrokid

For 20+ years singer/guitarist John Reis has fronted and co-founded legendary San Diego bands Pitchfork, Drive Like Jehu, Rocket From the Crypt, Hot Snakes and The Sultans. He also works as a producer, operates his record label Swami Records and is a local disc jockey. In this episode John shares his pandemic habits and what he realized was most important to him in that time. Joe and John also discuss how supply chain issues have effected rock n roll, why streaming platforms may not be the best custodians of music and John shares his brilliant idea for lives shows if things don't soon return to normal. We learn about his latest project The Plosives and hear a couple un released tunes from his new record Swami John Reis. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

For the last 20 years, Dave Hernandez has played guitar and toured extensively with The Shins, Scared of Chaka and The Intelligence. In this episode we get a jam packed chronology of Dave's most sketchy, most wholesome and most exciting experiences from the road. He also shares a few tour hacks.Music Scared of Chaca, The Intelligence, Palm Frauds and Joe Plummer. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:IzotopeDistrokidSchecter Guitars

Nik Freitas is a singer, songwriter, photographer and skateboarder residing in Alhambra, CA. Over the past 20 years, Nik has released 10 solo records and toured with Broken Bells, All Smiles and Connor Oberst's Mystic Valley Band. Nik's forthcoming release on Park The Van records is called Searching For Device and will be out September 15th 2021. In this episode , Joe and Nik discuss why Nik is now more assertive with sharing his music, how he got back into photography and how Americans may view the U.S. post pandemic. Nik also hips us to artist Tim Lierman, author of Blazar and tells us that in fact, aliens are real. Joe plays Good News , the newest single from Searching for Device. Music by Nik Freitas, Palm Frauds, Hew Time and Joe PlummerUse Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

Rozzi is a singer-songwriter from San Francisco, California. With the release of her two part EP/LP Hymm for Tomorrow coming out on July 16th, Rozzi is excited perform live again on her first headlining tour. Rozzi tells Joe how she stayed inspired during the pandemic, why its ok not to have made your masterpiece and what she hopes we've learned from the ongoing social justice movement. She also shares her song writing process, how she chose George Moore to produce her newest record and why her "demo" vocals usually wind up being the final vocals on her recordings. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:Schecter GuitarsIzotopeDistrokid

This is new podcast called Demoitis with Joe Plummer and Dann Gallucci. Demoitis isn’t just the fear or regret that you’ve "lost the magic” on the path from the first recording of a song. It's also the experience musicians go through getting to the final version…. the people, the spaces and the resources that influence the process. As the 20th anniversary of the release of Oh, Inverted World arrives, we hear for the horse’s mouth about the creation and the evolution of New Slang with James Mercer, singer, song writer and founding member of The Shins. Use Code Fret10 for a free month of Music Production Suite Pro and a 10% discount on all other software. visit https://www.izotope.com/en/lp/ruinous.html @thetourstories Mentioned in this episode:DistrokidIzotopeSchecter Guitars