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🎉 EPISODE 200 🎉 We're celebrating a huge milestone with Sweet Pill 💥 Jayce & Zaina join the pod to talk about their upcoming album Still There's a Glow and the journey from DIY college band to fully realized artists. We get into songwriting, growth, the pandemic, protecting artistic integrity, and creating music that actually connects. Honest, emotional, and full of gratitude — this one means a lot. 🎧 Tune in now and celebrate 200 with us.

Step into another episode of Behind the Vinyl as we welcome Izzy and Toni of Glare into the interview room for an engaging and heartfelt conversation about their journey, their latest record, and everything in between. While some might say Glare "blew up overnight," the reality is far from effortless. The band has been putting in the work, grinding behind the scenes, and staying focused on their mission. Their latest album, Sunset Funeral, released in April via the legendary Deathwish Inc., is a testament to that dedication. If there's one word to describe the album, it's "closure." In this episode, Izzy and Toni reflect on what the record means to them, both personally and creatively. From the rainy, uncharacteristically gloomy weeks spent recording in Los Angeles, to the emotional depth behind tracks like Morning Haze and Guts, the album explores themes of grief, healing, and—ultimately—hope. The duo shares how their songwriting process is fluid and intuitive, often allowing songs to unfold naturally with layers of meaning open to interpretation. While much of Sunset Funeral channels pain and reflection, it also leaves space for light and resilience to break through. As the band finds their rhythm balancing tour life and creative cycles, this episode gives a deeper look into how they're staying grounded, inspired, and ready for what's next. If you haven't already, give Sunset Funeral a listen—or spin it again. It's a record built to stand the test of time. 🎧 Tune in now and get behind the vinyl with Glare.

In this all-exclusive interview, Tate sits down with Chase Walsh, the creative force behind Worry Club, to dive deep into the band's evolving sound, creative journey, and latest releases—including the introspective single "Anything Else" and the newly dropped "Little F****r." Chase opens up about the shift from recording music in his bedroom to working in professional studios, and how his surroundings continue to shape his sonic identity. Once dreaming of scoring films, Chase found his voice (literally) while singing in college bands—evolving from hushed vocals to full-on belting now that he's no longer confined to apartment walls. The conversation gets especially lively as Chase reminisces about performing at a packed Michigan festival alongside emo heavyweights like Free Throw, Origami Angel, Microwave, and Mom Jeans. The energy, he says, was unmatched—and the shared love for genre icons like Modern Baseball, Tigers Jaw, and Pity Sex continues to bond the band on and off stage. Since dropping their debut EP in 2020, Worry Club has been on a steady rise, gaining a loyal following with their emotionally raw lyrics and relatable themes. Chase shares how the band's music continues to be an outlet for him—blending vulnerability with catharsis—and how addressing mental health through songwriting helps connect with fans on a deeper level.

In this episode, Steve returns to the mic for an electrifying interview with Peter Pawlak, frontman of the relentless California hardcore outfit SPY. With their latest EP Seen Enough released in February and a non-stop touring schedule that's taken them from the U.S. with Superheaven to stages across Europe, SPY is proving that hardcore can break barriers and cross genres. Peter talks candidly about what it's like to front one of the most talked-about bands in the underground scene today. Growing up in California—a state with a deep-rooted punk and hardcore legacy—shaped his musical identity. From cutting his teeth at local shows to leading a band that's gaining global recognition, Peter shares how those formative years forged his artistic path. We dive deep into Seen Enough, a record built with intent. From raw, honest lyricism that touches on personal and societal unrest, to a live-style recording process that captures the band's unmatched energy, Peter breaks down how this EP came together—and why it feels like SPY's most locked-in project to date. Drawing influence from bands like Ceremony, Bad Brains, and Dead Kennedys, SPY doesn't mimic their sound, but they carry forward their fearless ideologies. Peter speaks to the importance of political and emotional honesty in songwriting, and how staying real with listeners is the ultimate accomplishment. Whether you're a diehard fan of hardcore or just discovering SPY, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at a band that's pushing boundaries, refusing to be boxed in by genre, and staying true to their roots.

In this episode, Tate chats with Marcus Nuccio and Evan Weiss, the driving forces behind the band, Pet Symmetry, about their latest album Big Symmetry, released on May 2. Since August 2023, the record label, Storm Chaser, has been releasing one album every month, but Big Symmetry stands out as the label's most significant release yet. Marcus and Evan discuss the power of self-releasing music, as owning their own label allows them to make all the decisions and maintain complete control over their music. They also reflect on the incredible freedom this gives them, from writing and recording to collaborating with friends in the industry, such as Mike from Asian Man Records, who contributed to this release. The duo opens up about the unique writing process for Big Symmetry, which took place in a cabin in Southern Illinois. Over the course of just seven days, the band wrote 17 songs and immediately tracked the drums, marking a departure from their usual, more spread-out approach to songwriting. Lyrically, the band challenged themselves to write 12 love songs, a task that proved difficult for some members, but ultimately resulted in a more refined, confident sound. Marcus and Evan also discuss the evolution of their music, explaining how the process and the music itself reflect their growth as musicians since they first started playing together in 2012. With Pet Symmetry marking their fourth LP, the band finds themselves at a point where they can confidently call themselves veterans in the indie music scene. Their newfound confidence, along with their years of experience, has led to a tight, like-minded group of musicians who know exactly what they want out of their music careers. The episode offers an inside look at the band's journey, their creative process, and how their decisions along the way has allowed them to achieve everything they ever wanted in music. Whether you're a fan of the band or new to their music, this conversation provides valuable insights into the world of independent music and the freedom that comes with owning your art.

Tate is on a roll as we edge closer to the big 2-0-0, and this week's episode brings a breezy, story-filled conversation with Andrew from the band The Wisconaut. Fresh off a surf trip with his buddies, Andrew joins the show in peak post-sesh energy to chat about everything from catching waves to catching ears with his music. The convo kicks off with Andrew's roots in Milwaukee and his unexpected journey into surfing. He shares some of his favorite trips — including a formative stint in Rockaway, New York, where he feels he truly honed his skills on the board. But it's not long before the tides turn toward music. Andrew dives into his time at Syracuse University, playing in the band Super Defense before launching his own project. He gives props to the college town for its vibrant music scene, saying it played a huge role in building his confidence and shaping his sound. From basement shows to Snapchat-style video diaries, Andrew's got stories for days. The episode also touches on early recordings, inspiration from punk legends like Henry Rollins, and the wild ride of going viral overnight thanks to a TikTok post. From dorm room dreams to real-life gigs, The Wisconaut's journey is part mystery, part manifesto, and all heart. So who are The Wisconaut, really? You'll just have to tune in to find out.

This week, Tate sits down with Jake Beital of Prize Horse for an unforgettable convo that kicks off with an instant Minnesota connection. From the Twin Cities to deep dives into the local music scene, Jake paints a vivid picture of home — and yes, he comes prepared with a stacked list of his favorite hometown restaurants. After a quick warm-up, the two dive into the heart of it: music. Jake opens up about Under Sound, the record Prize Horse dropped last year that's taken on a timeless life of its own. Even two years after recording, he's still proud of what they created — and listeners clearly agree. They also look back on their recent tour with Gleemer, calling it a huge honor, and preview what's next: dates with Superheaven, Glare, Spy, and a just-about-to-kick-off run with Soul Blind. Prize Horse is not slowing down anytime soon. Jake also shares what it's been like coming up in a close-knit local scene, the friendships that helped build the band, and what keeps that community thriving. From lyric writing and album artwork to the very first time he picked up an instrument — nothing's off the table in this wide-ranging, heartfelt interview. Whether you're a fan of the band, the scene, or just love a good story — this one's a must-listen.

n this episode, we sit down with Anthony, the creative force behind the music project "Rosevile Sucks." The name originated during his time living in Roseville, and even today, driving through the area serves as a humorous reminder of those experiences. Anthony is also part of the popular YouTube channel "Hivemind," which has broadened his horizons and introduced him to the world of football, despite his primary passion for music. Anthony shares how joining "Hivemind" was more than just a job; it was a chance to connect with like-minded musicians. The instant chemistry he found with the team has been a rewarding part of his journey, as they share a love for similar music. "Rosevile Sucks" has been making waves with new releases, including the track "If We Never Met," which dropped in January. Initially intimidated by lyric writing, Anthony has pushed himself out of his comfort zone, allowing his skills to grow. He finds inspiration in the most unexpected places—one line in his latest song even came from TikTok! Over the past two years, the project has garnered a significant following, amassing a large number of monthly listeners. Anthony is determined not to let the pressures of the music industry hold him back; instead, he wants to keep sharing his work with the world. Despite being his own harshest critic, he assures listeners that more music is on the way. At one point, Anthony considered stepping away from the project, grappling with self-doubt about whether he truly belonged in the music scene. However, he's committed to collaboration moving forward, indicating that his solo work could take a backseat as he explores new creative partnerships. Join us for an inspiring conversation about music, creativity, and the journey of self-discovery!

In this episode, we had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Steph Jerkova of Punitive Damage back in November. What a fantastic conversation it was! Not only is Punitive Damage an incredible band, but Steph herself is one of the most down-to-earth and engaging people you'll meet. We dove deep into the band's journey, exploring their sound, and the unique vibe that sets them apart in the hardcore punk music scene. But it wasn't just about the music—Steph brought tons of energy, humor, and insight to the table, making this episode a blast from start to finish. Whether you're already a fan of Punitive Damage or just discovering their sound, this interview offers a peek behind the curtain of one of the most exciting up-and-coming bands around. Don't miss it!

It's taken me a little while to dive back into some of the interviews I did last year, but today we're releasing something I'm really proud of — our interview with Chat Pile.  There were times over the past few months when I seriously considered walking away from this project. I was burnt out, and setting up interviews felt like a chore. But in the end, I realized this project is too important to me to let go. I've made lifelong friends in Rosie and Tate, who've dedicated countless hours to making sure it continues. I often think back to my younger self, feeling lost and unsure of where my life was headed. Then I found the punk community — and it gave me purpose. For the first time in a long time, I was excited about something: the shows I attended, the people I met, and the sense of belonging. Starting this podcast in the first month of the pandemic allowed me to connect with bands I'd been listening to for years. Even though there were times when I didn't make the best decisions, one thing I'm sure of is that this project is something I'm proud of. This year, I'm focusing on quality over quantity. There'll be fewer interviews, but I'm going to make sure each one is something I'm truly excited about. I'll be putting in more effort with follow-ups, audio, and graphics because the people who give me their time deserve nothing less. Thank you to everyone who listens. We've got big things ahead, and I hope we can continue putting out content we're proud of.  WE'RE BACK! Check out our interview with Chat Pile now on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this episode, we sit down with Mat Kerekes, the multifaceted frontman of Citizen, to dive deep into his solo work, his ever-evolving approach to music, and his unique balance of passion projects. Whether it's fronting an iconic band like Citizen, writing his own songs as a solo artist, or stepping into the role of a producer, Mat seems to do it all—and do it well. Mat's most recent solo release, To Dream of Something Wicked, dropped on Wax Bodega to rave reviews, and in this interview, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the record. As Mat explains, the album was a labor of love that came together organically during a transitional time in his life. Written and recorded while moving back home, he unintentionally tapped into a sound that echoed his 2016 release Luna & the Wild Blue Everything—an album that established his solo sound. But with this latest project, Mat says, "This record is just me," showing that he's not trying to emulate anyone or anything. He's comfortable with who he is, and that authenticity is reflected in the music. We also explore Mat's evolving relationship with Citizen, touching on the 10-year anniversary of Youth in 2023 (which, for Mat, marked a turning point in both his career and his personal life). He shares funny and heartfelt stories from those early days of the band, as well as his growth—from an insecure high school kid to a driven musician who balances his time between creating, performing, and pursuing other passions like Muay Thai and video games. As we discuss his solo career, Mat reveals that his solo music often happens during downtime from Citizen. While the band will always be his main focus, his solo work offers a refreshing outlet—one that allows him to write without the pressure of a larger team. In fact, his solo endeavors have been more low-key with little press or touring, but we can expect a short 2-3 week stretch in 2025, with Mat playing a handful of dates before moving on to the next phase of his career. If there's one thing that stands out about Mat, it's his ability to fully dedicate himself to whatever he does. Whether it's music, the gym, or martial arts, he gives it everything he's got. A self-proclaimed gym rat who's constantly training, Mat is someone who truly takes advantage of the 24 hours in a day, leaving no room for regrets. We had a blast chatting with Mat—his humor, honesty, and passion shine through in this conversation. Be sure to listen to the full interview for insights into Mat's creative process, his growth as both an artist and a person, and of course, some great stories from the road with Citizen.

What can we say about Speed and their iconic hit record Only One Mode that hasn't already been said? If you're a hardcore fan, you know the vibe. This lovable group from Australia brings everything you could ask for: raw energy, relentless drive, and authenticity on and off the stage. They're more than just a band; they're an unstoppable force in hardcore, breaking boundaries worldwide. In this latest episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Jem from Speed. Going into this, I knew I was a HUGE fan. But after diving into Jem's past interviews, I could see why Speed resonates so deeply with fans. Jem's responses are thoughtful, warm, and make you feel like you've been friends for years. In my pre-interview deep dive/preparation, I stumbled on a post by one of the band members' parents—it was a true celebration of the band's journey. You can see the genuine love they have for each other. From holiday gatherings to major events, Speed is more than a band; they're family. What was supposed to be an 1-hour convo turned into an epic 2-hour hangout (sorry, Jem!). Tate and I walked away feeling like we made a friend. Huge thanks to Jem for being so open and genuine. We'll always be fans of Speed!

In this episode, we dive deep with Sam and Skylar of Been Stellar as tearlier in the year they celebrated the release of their debut album, Scream from New York, NY. Having crafted their musical bond since the age of 14, the duo reflects on the evolution of their sound from singles and EPs to a full-length record. Join us as they share the story behind the album—how the pressure of previous EP's success fueled their desire to create something raw and authentic. Sam and Skylar discuss their mission to deliver emotionally resonant lyrics that defy trends and showcase their unique identity as a band. With the vibrant backdrop of New York City as their canvas, they explore the challenges and triumphs of relocating from Michigan to the bustling metropolis. Discover how their shared experiences in a new city shaped their music and lyrics, and how they navigated a scene marked by the closure of historic venues. It took away from that magical notion that musical dreams could be created in NYC. However, determination carried them up to this point as they found ways to throw their own shows early on at venues such as art galleries.  This episode is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the power of friendship in the ever-evolving music landscape. Tune in to hear the heartfelt sounds of Been Stellar and understand what it truly means to scream from New York!

This week, we sit down with Adrian from Luster to dive deep into their creative process and the unique dynamics of the band. We discuss how they manage to blend emotional vulnerability with a sound that's evolved over the years. Highlights Include: The surprising fact that, despite playing shoegaze the most, it's what Adrian listens to the least! The origins of Luster as a "bedroom project," with Adrian and Alvin sending ideas back and forth, allowing the rest of the band to contribute at their own pace. How Adrian and Alvin's friendship began 10+ years ago at California shows, not as childhood friends, but as kindred spirits shaped by a shared culture and humor. Adrian's thoughts on embracing emotion in music, especially within Latin culture, where expressing feelings is often discouraged. Why moving to a small town of just 400 people has given Adrian the peace and space he needs to be creative. Reflections on the band's emo-adjacent sound and how Adrian's emotional experiences influence his lyrics. Plus, Adrian shares stories of growing up listening to everything from Nu Metal to Slayer, and the band tattoos that have left a lasting mark: Morrissey, Unbroken, Psychic TV, and Swans. This episode is filled with honest insights and reflections from a band that started with a simple mission—to play music with friends—and has checked off dream collaborations along the way. Don't miss out on this amazing conversation!  

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating journey of a band that emerged from the fusion of passion and persistence. Our story begins a decade ago with Eric Stenman, who was writing heavier music that he never imagined would reach the public eye. Eric's early musical journey intertwined with Aaron Bruno's in the late '90s through their shared love for hardcore music. Despite their separate creative paths —Eric focusing on music production and Aaron eventually forming Awolnation—they would later find a way to create a band together (although they have been working together for years with Aaron writing for Awolantion and Eric producing all of the records).  After years of Eric leaning more towards production and not playing much instrumentals, Aaron, having heard some of Eric's latest work, was impressed and wanted to continue on other songs. This pivotal moment led to the formation of a new band that stands apart from traditional music paths. Unlike many bands that spend years on the road in a van, this group is driven by their love for hardcore music and are doing it because their passions align.  With four songs already released, including the recent track "Bazooka" on August 2, listeners can expect some exciting surprises and new directions from this band. The new record will be out on October 4th  In our conversation with Eric, we also explored his impressive career as a producer. Since 1997, he's avoided the day job to build a notable resume working with bands like Deftones, Weezer, Thrice, Dashboard Confessional, Senses Fail, and Awolnation. We asked Eric to reflect on his experiences with these iconic groups, providing listeners with insightful anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories. Tune in to hear about the origins of the band, their unique approach to music, and Eric's reflections on his storied career in the industry.