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Send us Fan Mail Christian Dryden and David Andreana from the Ritualists stop by the show to discuss the up coming UK tour, new music that might be coming out in the fall, AI and more.  **** Rising from the NYC underground scene of the Lower East Side, The Ritualists first attained international critical acclaim for their debut album, Painted People, released just prior to the pandemic on Out of Line Music. The record, and particularly, its lead single “Ice Flower,” was hailed as a seamless blend of dark beauty & anthemic pop sensibilities.  The follow-up effort, Baroque & Bleeding, produced by Brit-Pop icon, Ed Buller(Psychedelic Furs, White Lies, Pulp, Suede), has been described as “pure new romantic psychedelia,” by Duran Duran’s Simon Le Bon, and continued the trend of critical adoration, along with regular airplay on SiriusXM. This momentum lead to multiple US tours and multiple collaborations, performing with members of Blondie, Love and Rockets, D Generation and The New York Dolls.  The Ritualists now seek to build on their brand of “Gothic Art Rock” (Hollywood Life) with their latest, full-length effort, Too Pure to Cure (Suite484Music) produced by GRAMMY-winner, Mario McNulty (David Bowie, Prince, Willow). The band, which has oftentimes been identified as proudly embracing the more ornate elements of rock-and-roll, further tested such boundaries, as this newest release was honored on multiple "Best of 2025" lists & has been described as "Moody, melodic & undeniably magnetic" by Savoir Faire & "a heartfelt and adventurous offering from a band that seems poised to usher in a new era of new romantic art rock" by Regen Magazine The Ritualists have announced their first-ever tour of the UK in support of their 3rd album, Too Pure to Cure. Christian Dryden and co. will embark on a short, but compelling run of shows across the UK, with stops in London, Manchester, Reading and Nottingham, from April 17th-22nd.  The Gothic Art Rockers (Hollywood Life), will be showcasing material from the new album alongside selections from their critically-acclaimed back catalogue, much of which will be fresh to British Audiences. Their latest, full-length effort, released on all platforms through (Suite484Music) and produced by GRAMMY-winner, Mario McNulty (David Bowie, Prince, Willow), has been honored on multiple "Best of 2025" lists & described as "Moody, melodic and undeniably magnetic" and by Savoir Faire as "a heartfelt and adventurous offering from a band that seems poised to usher in a new era of new romantic art rock" by Regen Magazine Tickets & More Info available through www.theritualists.com/event-list Website: https://www.theritualists.com/ **** If you would like to contact the show [email protected] Follow us on Social Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0ETs2wpOHbCuhUNr0XFTw?view_as=subscriber Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Support the podcast here: https://www.patreon.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom ©2026 Bette Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week on the show Chris Eveland stops by the show to discuss, being a studio player as well as a touring one. We talk music, life, and more.  **** Chris Eveland is a dynamic and versatile guitarist whose style emulates many genres. With a deep passion for music that began at a young age,Chris has spent over 35 years and north of 3000 live shows, honing his craft, developing a reputation for technical skill, emotive playing, and a unique sound that blends many of his influences. Chris has performed in Theaters, Festivals, Arenas all over North America and the UK as well. As a composer, he creates intricate, melodic guitar parts that resonate with many listeners and has him known as a go to hired professional. Whether on stage or in the studio, Chris brings an infectious energy and technical precision that resonates with audiences and fellow musicians alike. Chris also has acquired an Artist endorsement deal with the Canadian guitar company Godin. In addition to performing, Chris has collaborated and toured with Sony BMG recording artist Aaron Walpole (3rd place Canadian Idol) and is currently working with a north American touring Abba tribute. Known for his improvisational skills and stage presence, he brings a fresh and ex- citing approach to every performance, leaving a lasting impact wherever he goes. Chris is currently performing, recording and touring with, SOS the Abba Experience, FyRe, John Miles Music, Sammi and the Boys and is regularly hired as a fill-in for many bands in Ontario. **** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0ETs2wpOHbCuhUNr0XFTw?view_as=subscriber Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Video of the interview is available here onYouTube. Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: [email protected] To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast Support the podcast here: https://www.patreon.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom ©2026 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Bren Holmes stops by the show to discuss music, AI, chasing his dream, and more. *** For thirty-plus years, Bren Holmes has been playing his craft as a musician, songwriter, and bandmate. As an original member of the Irish Rock band The Young Dubliners, this Los Angeles-by-way-of-Dublin Ireland band has gigged all over the world--and lived to tell about it. In the fall of 2019, Bren decided to part ways with the band in the pursuit of a solo career. After several months, he put together a list of songs he had written and got together with co-producer Bryan Dobbs to record his very first solo album, Everything You Never Wanted. His debut album was very well received throughout the industry and not too long after it’s release, Bren didn’t waste any time and got right back to work to start on his sophomore album entitled, A Rush To The Start Line… With 10 new songs under his belt, he enlisted his co-producer Bryan Dobbs to complement his previous endeavor. It comprises of a mixture of themes and emotions with not any two songs sounding alike yet somehow strung together gracefully…it deals with a number of themes from a runaway child ("Gloria") to the topsy-turvy life of Sinéad O’ Connor ("Ordinary World") to Mother Earth speaking to humanity as a whole ("Need Some Time") to a couple of breakup songs, which Bren never seems to shy away from ("Satisfied", "Don’t Say You Will"). Bren and Bryan played most of the instruments but brought in some great talent when required, including bassist Paul Bushnell (Tim McGraw), Ben Thomas (Dweezil Zappa) to name a few… Bren is hoping to take his new album around the country throughout 2026 and beyond. He hopes that it will bring you some enjoyment and solace while listening to it… *** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0ETs2wpOHbCuhUNr0XFTw?view_as=subscriber Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Video of the interview is available here onYouTube. Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: [email protected] To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast Support the podcast here: https://www.patreon.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom ©2026 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Gerald Jones stops by the show to discuss, his new app, Blessen, trauma, doom scrolling and more. **** Gerald Jones and Kevin Clark's friendship goes back over 20 years, to the night they first met backstage at the Academy Awards. Their bond grew through creativity, shared values, and a deep desire to make a difference. Together, they later won an Emmy Award for a public service announcement addressing school gun violence - a project that reflected their heart for inspiring hope and protecting the next generation. Beyond their work in media, Gerald and Kevin have also been long-time business partners supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, running programs focused on empowerment and compassion. This commitment to community is woven into everything they do - and it became the foundation of Blessn. The story of Blessn began in March 2023, when Gerald Jones became sick of doom scrolling on social media, and found himself bummed out after every TikTok session. It occurred to him that maybe there was a better way. There should be a short form video social media that uplifted and encouraged instead.  At its heart, Blessn is more than an app - it’s a movement. A space where users can share uplifting videos, connect with others who believe in goodness, and replace endless “doom scrolling” with “faith scrolling.” Gerald and Kevin believe that positive scrolling has the power to change hearts, strengthen communities, and remind people that light always wins over darkness. For more information on the Blessn app, visit: blessn.com (http://blessn.com/) ***** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0ETs2wpOHbCuhUNr0XFTw?view_as=subscriber Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Video of the interview is available here onYouTube. Have a question or want to be a guest on the podcast email: [email protected] To see upcoming guests click here: https://www.dmneedom.com/better-topodcast Support the podcast here: https://www.patreon.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom ©2026 Better To...Podcast with D. M.Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Justin Warfield stops by the show to discuss, Deathrock Devotionals Vol II, inner peace, change in perspective and more.  ***** After a year of steady build-up, bold reinvention, and dancefloor resurrection, WARFIELD - the darkwave/deathrock project helmed by She Wants Revenge lyricist and frontman Justin Warfield - arrives at a pivotal moment. Today marks the release of Deathrock Devotionals Vol. II (out via Black Heathers/Cleopatra Records), the latest installment in Justin’s ongoing love letter to the early Los Angeles deathrock and post-punk scenes that shaped him. Just two weeks later, on November 28, the saga culminates with the release of the full-length album Deathrock Devotionals - an all-encompassing statement piece that merges narrative depth, goth energy, and propulsive hooks into one darkly luminous body of work. “Like its predecessor, Vol. II is a continuation, and remembrance of, the early years of goth and deathrock in Los Angeles,” Justin explains. “I’m taking inspiration from 45 Grave, Super Heroines, Rozz Williams, Patrick Mata - all those people who pioneered this thing that not only lives on, but is thriving so many years later it. I’m just continuing that spirit and making something new, fun, full of energy, and from my point of view.” He continues, “In many ways this project, this band, and this record specifically is really the child of a time in the early ’80s in LA when there was a confluence of art-rock punks, East LA punks, Queer culture, late-night diners and after hours, basement shows, dueling live music venues in Chinatown as the epicenter of the scene, and suburban backyard parties. When Hollywood was dangerous and full of possibility, and before the jocks and bros crashed the punk party.” ****** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Annie stops by the show to discuss music, how Loki's Folly came together, anxiety, new music and more. ****** ‘Retribution’ is a song looking at the parallels of extreme sides of emotions and how we react to difficult things,” says Annie Kuchenmeister, guitarist and singer for Loki’s Folly, the Minneapolis-based indie-punk trio made up of sisters Annie (24), Nissa (19) and their brother Oskar (15). “The verses are an exploration of defensive and protective anger - wanting to hurt those who hurt you. While there’s gratification and justification to seeking retribution, the chorus creates a vulnerable opposition to these harsher feelings. It’s really about just not wanting to be alone forever and wanting to be cared for after being hurt.”   At its core, “Retribution” channels raw emotional honesty through the band’s trademark blend of kinetic guitar work, cathartic drumming, and melodic grit - a sonic space where fury meets tenderness head-on. “This song came out of a lot of feelings of frustration and anger,” Annie continues. “Dealing with those big emotions can be hard, and I really didn’t want to be consumed by them. So, this song became a way to lay everything bare - the good and the bad - and explore it all honestly. The music and lyrics really came together as a unit; as the melody came about, an old lyric idea immediately clicked.” Following on the heels of their September 2025 single (“King of All Alone”),” “Retribution” continues Loki’s Folly’s evolution toward deeper, more introspective songwriting. This reflective thread connects “King of All Alone” and “Retribution,” both songs were produced by Ryan Smith of Soul Asylum and born from turbulent emotional spaces that transform struggle into strength. Where “King of All Alone” aches with longing and cautious optimism, “Retribution” pushes back with defiant honesty - together forming a striking one-two punch from a band unafraid to confront both the chaos and the catharsis of modern life.   Formed in South Minneapolis, Loki’s Folly began as a project between sisters Annie and Nissa, later joined by their younger brother Oskar on bass. Their bond - both familial and creative - gives their music a distinct urgency, weaving together themes of identity, isolation, neurodivergence, and resilience. On their debut Sisu, the band worked with legendary producers Ryan Smith (of Soul Asylum), Ed Ackerson (The Replacements, The Jayhawks), Kevin Bowe (Etta James, Jonny Lang), and John Fields (Jonas Brothers, Andrew W.K.), crafting a record that explored the complexities of adolescence and the emotional weight of finding one’s voice in an uncertain world.  While Sisu introduced listeners to their youthful defiance and eclectic spirit, “Retribution” feels like a step into something more introspective - a song that acknowledges the anger beneath the surface, but also the fragile hope that lingers within it. It’s a fitting next chapter for a band growing up in public, unafraid to document the messy process of becoming. For more info about the band: https://lokisfolly.com/ **** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail I'm the guests this week to provide and update about changes or the show. Talk about community and more. **** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Shari stops by the show to discuss, new music, performing the National Anthem of Nascar, health and so much more.... **** Embodying the heart and soul of country music, Southwestern songstress Shari Rowe redefines what it means to captivate. Bringing authenticity, intentionality, and a timeless blend of country and americana, Rowe’s “voice, personality, and story will mesmerize you” (Missy, Center Stage Magazine). From international tours in Poland to charity events, to opening for big name artists like Wynonna Judd and LeAnn Rimes, Rowe has seen all sides of the industry and proven her invaluable talent. Closer to home, the Arizonan continues to champion rising talent and the spirit of true country music as co-host of the local radio series Arizona on the Rise. Shari Rowe isn’t just a trailblazer—she’s a guiding light in modern country music. With every song she reminds us where the genre has been, and where it’s headed next. After facing a frightening health scare, country singer-songwriter Shari Rowe turned to music for strength. Her upcoming single, “Too Good To Go,” began as a poem written the night she was told she might have Multiple Myeloma, a form of blood cancer. What started as fear turned into gratitude, transforming into one of her most personal and powerful songs to date. Weeks later, doctors confirmed a rare but non-life-threatening autoimmune condition, but the song remains a heartfelt reminder that life is, indeed, too good to go. “I love that I’ve got so much to lose — that line is the heartbeat of the song.” Shari Rowe  **** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week on the podcast, I sit down with Dexy and Chris to discuss their latest release, their musical journey and more.  **** Dark dreampop duo Magic Wands will release a new album entitled Cascades via Metropolis Records. It includes their current single, "Time To Dream,"as well as the previously issued "Hide," "Armour," "Moonshadow," and "Across The Water." “Cascades was born from a fascination with how the past lingers inside us and explores transformation and the spaces where timelines blur into one,” the band explains. Shaped by the spirit of centuries-old poetry, gothic romance, and myth, the album pulses with post-punk and dream-pop sounds, shot through with lingering shadows of the old world, bridging the sound of their 2012 debut album Aloha Moon with more recent releases. Formed in 2008 in Nashville by vocalists/guitarists Dexy and Chris Valentine but now based in Los Angeles, Magic Wands are known for a shimmering, dreamy sound that melds elements of shoegaze, dreampop, postpunk, and goth. Their music utilzes heavily-textured guitars, synth drones, and ethereal vocals to conjure an otherworldly atmosphere, plus song lyrics that are emotionally engaging.   The duo has built a loyal fanbase over the course of five studio albums to date, the most recent of which was Switch (2023). Songs from it were subsequently remixed by guest artists and released as Switched later that same year. Magic Wands is a partnership built on alchemy of dark dreampop, goth-tinged postpunk, and a touch of cosmic romance.       Shaped by the duo’s signature cinematic atmosphere and celestial hooks, they hint at an album that explores transformation, reflection, and the pull of distant horizons.     Magic Wands make music like portals, each record a doorway into a different century, a different sky. Over a decade since Aloha Moon, their magic is only growing stronger. ***** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week on the podcast, Glenn stops by to discuss the Triptides latest release, Shapeshifter, their cover of Spooky and so much more. **** Releasing on the heels of Triptides’ June 2025 album Shapeshifter, the six-song EP Night Shift arrives as the band lands in Europe for a two-week tour.  Comprised of four songs recorded during the Shapeshifter sessions and two newly recorded covers, the EP is classic Triptides.  From the dreamy fuzz ‘n’ faze of the opener “Pendulum,” to the bouncy groove of “Lonely Planet” and the interplanetary funk closer “Nuvens,” Triptides seems to be dimming the lights for an intimate late-night party, the Night Shift.  The EP comes out on Halloween, which is also the date of the first show on the European tour.  Leading up to the October 31 release, two singles will prime fans for the full EP: “Pendulum,” out on September 26, and “Spooky,” (a cover of the Halloween favorite originally recorded by Classics IV) out on October 17.  Like Shapeshifter, the EP is on Label 51 records worldwide, also home to Mojave Phone Booth, the Rain Parade and Dream Syndicate.   Over the last fourteen years and dozens of albums and singles, Triptides have traversed a hyper color musical landscape of psychedelic rock, Laurel Canyon folk and spaced-out jazz pop. Each track can be traced back to group leader Glenn Brigman’s unique ability to craft and explore a seemingly infinite number of dimensional melodies and harmonies.  With every line of Brigman’s airy vocals that dance across the tape and into the speakers, stoners, trippers and lovers alike are transported to a sweet and familiar place, lifted by chiming guitars, hypnotic drums, glittering pianos and hallucinogenic fuzz.  On stage in Europe, Brigman will be joined by long-time collaborator (and current resident of Copenhagen) Stephen Burns on guitar and the rhythm section of Tyler English on bass and Craig Jacobs on drums. ****** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Upcoming guests can be found: https://dmneedom.com/upcoming-guest  Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Frank stops by the show to discuss his solo record, his childhood adventures with his brother and so much more. ***** Living Between the Lines is the debut solo LP from Frank Meyer. A long time coming, Meyer’s been hinting at it for a while now with Bandcamp exclusive tracks, covers on tribute albums, acoustic solo shows, and his acclaimed collaboration album with Eddie Spaghetti of the Supersuckers. Like the Eddie collab, LBTL is out on Kitten Robot Records. The 11-song album adds touches of blues and soul to Meyer’s expected high-energy rock ‘n ’roll, revealing a more mature voice. He is joined for duets by longtime friend and collaborator Lisa Kekaula of the Bellrays on the title track, Runaways icon Cherie Currie on “Piece of Me” and Spaghetti himself on “Partners In Crime.” An award-winning musician, filmmaker and author, Meyer has a track record that covers rock ‘n ’roll, punk, heavy metal, blues, and country. Known for his work with everyone from Rock ‘n ’Roll Hall of Famers James Williamson (Iggy & the Stooges) and Wayne Kramer (MC5) to legendary punk act FEAR, Meyer has carved out a career full of unlikely collaborations, hard work, searing guitar playing, and ace songwriting skills. “It meant a lot to have these particular vocalists join me on my solo debut,” says Meyer. “Lisa and I go way back to my earliest days of the music scene in L.A.. Eddie is also an ld friend and touring buddy, and was a big inspiration in making this album. Cherie saw the Streewalkin’ Cheetahs early on and helped us get signed. So all of them are dear to me and have been integral in my career.” As kids, Frank and his brother (actor Breckin Meyer) put on plays and lip-sync concerts for their parents. By age 12, lil ’Frankie was playing guitar, writing songs and recording at Frank Zappa’s house with his childhood friends Ahmet and Dweezil. By age 15, he was gigging professionally around the ‘80s Hollywood club scene with his teenage high school band. In the mid-’90s, Meyer formed punk act the Streetwalkin’ Cheetahs, who went on to record many acclaimed albums, tour the world and carve out a niche as one of L.A.'s hardest working, hardest rocking bands. The band remains active with new releases and reissues out in stores on Rum Bar Records, Heavy Medication Records, and Ghost Highway Records, plus European and US touring activity. ***** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Upcoming guests can be found: https://dmneedom.com/upcoming-guest  Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Amanda stops by the show to discuss her dream of building a bookstore, Blind Date With a Book Boyfriend, and more. ****Side note - in my wrap up I mention that no harm that also included animals.**** ******* My love for reading began at a young age—curled up with a book, a fluffy blanket, a warm candle flickering nearby, and a cup of London Fog tea from Harney & Sons in hand. There’s nothing quite like escaping into another world, especially a good dystopian novel (bonus points if it’s by Tahereh Mafi, my favorite author). When I moved to Yuma, Arizona, in 2023, I was surprised to find how limited the local bookstore scene was. Aside from a small, soon-to-close shop downtown and the ever-reliable Barnes & Noble, there weren’t many spaces for readers to gather, connect, or simply exist in the cozy, book-loving atmosphere I’d always craved. That’s what inspired me to create Sage and Story—a place that’s more than just a bookstore. I wanted to offer the community a true literary haven: a welcoming, peaceful space to read, chat over tea, join a book club, or just browse without the pressure of big-name retail. I started small, selling used books from home with a dream of one day opening a storefront. For now, it’s all about small steps and shared stories. By this time next year, I hope to be running Sage and Story from a cozy, shared space—turning a passion into a full-time purpose. Sage & Story is a cozy, community-minded bookstore dream growing in the heart of Yuma, Arizona.  Rooted in the peaceful energy of the desert, we believe in the quiet power of books to inspire, heal, and connect. What started as a small idea — a few donated books and a love for stories — is becoming a space where neighbors swap stories, slow down, and rediscover joy through reading. We sell gently used books, and the goal to some day  build a reading space that's calm, inclusive, and full of soothing, cafe vibes. Whether you're a lifelong reader or just curious, you’re always welcome here. ***** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Upcoming guests can be found: https://dmneedom.com/upcoming-guest  Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week on the podcast Azam stops by the discuss her new music, Synesthesia, immigrating tot he US, living through war, menopause, and more.  ***** It is a song of destruction, of fire consuming everything in its path, yet within that annihilation lies the threshold of renewal, and the promise of something new,” explains internationally beloved singer/songwriter/producer AZAM ALI about her new single “To Pieces,” which is released today, September 4, 2025 via COP International. Taken from her upcoming album Synesthesia which will be released on November 14, 2025, “To Pieces” is a gorgeously aural landscape of echoing strings, cinematic keyboard washes, and tribal percussions, with Azam’s ethereal vocals floating above it all like a luminescent spectre.   Deeply layered both musically and lyrically, her sixth solo album Synesthesia is an escape from this tumultuous world, but not without the impact of the cultural and political upheaval. Named after the sensory phenomenon that allows individuals to experience the senses in a different way such as tasting colors or feeling sounds, “synesthesia” is a concept that runs throughout the album. The title track’s accelerating beat contrasts with Azam’s wispy vocals, generating a neural response that is comforting yet daunting. “This song is very special for me because I tried to capture what the sense of synesthesia that I experience is, the way my senses sometimes overlap, blending sound, color, and texture into a single, immersive perception.” The gauzy and delicate “Autumn of Goodbye” offers a softer and radiant ambiance with Azam holding onto the final moments before letting go (Walk with me / Under the sky / And offer me / The stars / On the way down). Synesthesia also offers two eye-opening covers: Tim Buckley’s “Song to the Siren” and Natalie Merchant’s “This House Is On Fire.” The former is a moody take on the original, highlighting Azam’s octave jumping vocal prowess, while the latter transforms Merchant’s languid calypso beat into a propulsive song with Middle Eastern flourishes.   “My music is an invitation to step beyond the confines of time, place, and the fragile vessel of flesh into a universe without borders,” Azam explains. “I want the listener to feel carried into the vastness of the ethereal, where freedom breathes, and every note reveals our part in a greater design. In this realm, we are no longer solitary beings, but shining stars drawn together into galaxies, each tone a reminder that we are participants in a cosmic symphony far larger than ourselves.”   ****** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Upcoming guests can be found: https://dmneedom.com/upcoming-guest  Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Eddie stops by the show to discuss the hit song he wrote, 'Hit Me With Your Best Shot', his last CD, 'Film School', and so much more.  ****** The first time I heard Pat Benatar’s version of ‘Hit Me With Your Best Shot,’ I was almost arrested for loitering,” laughs internationally lauded Canadian songwriter, producer, performer, and rights advocate Eddie Schwartz about the song he penned that became Benatar’s first Top Ten single in 1980. “I was walking down Yonge Street in Toronto when I heard it blasting out of a renowned hair salon and stopped dead in my tracks. I even think I started to drool [laughs]. As I stood there in a state of shock, a salon stylist called the police because of my strange behavior. When they arrived, they ordered me to move or face arrest. When I tried to explain to them that I just heard my song on the radio for the first time, they said, 'Sure, buddy. Move along." Stepping out from behind the curtain and into the spotlight, Schwartz will be physically releasing his full-length studio release on CD, FILM SCHOOL, on November 12, 2025. His songs have been recorded by an astonishing roster: Carly Simon, Joe Cocker, America, Donna Summer, Rita Coolidge, Rascal Flatts, and Mountain, among many others. As a producer, his credits include the Doobie Brothers’ Cycles, Carrack’s Groove Approved, and his own albums, all resonating with an unmistakable blend of craftsmanship and soul. This six-song EP finds the storied songwriter who authored such classics as Paul Carrack’s "Don't Shed a Tear" (1987), The Doobie Brothers’ "The Doctor" (1989), the aforementioned “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” (among hundreds of others) on the other side of the studio glass. “It’s a difficult time right now and I freely admit to struggling with how to cope with the daily insanity,” says Eddie about the current political and socio-economic climate. Instead of subjecting himself to the barrage of news, he opted instead to return to the studio and write songs. “The moment of writing ‘We Win’ was profound for me because I found a way to a more hopeful place that helped with anger, sadness and bewilderment at how we got here,” he explains. “I felt the message of ‘We Win’ offered some sanity that I needed to cling to, that I needed to find for myself. And I wanted to share it in the hope it might work for others as well.”    After an extended creative drought that plagued him for years, writing the single and subsequent songs on Film School was a turning point for him. “After a number of years doing the Nashville-style co-writing every day—two songs a day, five days a week— I burned out,” Eddie reflects. “The blank page stayed blank for a long time,” he explains of the rigorous demands of being a songwriter in today’s music business. The catalyst to cure his writer’s block was his frustration with current events. “My struggle to process the world at this moment in time and muster some resolve was what propelled me back in the writing mindset. ‘We Win’ acknowledges the pain and the struggle, but professes love means you don’t have to succumb to it.” ********* If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Upcoming guests can be found: https://dmneedom.com/upcoming-guest  Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom   Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Amanda stops by to talk about Hoodoo, Voodoo, her upcoming trip to Egypt and more.  ***** From an early age, Amanda has been aware and in tuned with her Psychic gifts and with the spirit world. As she grew up listening to sound of her own drumbeat. She borrowed her first book on Wicca when she was 13 and first tarot deck at 16. Then, at the age of 18 she was free to truly study her Spirit Lead path of Witchcraft, Psychic Development, and Energy Healing at a local shop that was located in Indianapolis, IN. In 2006, Spirit lead Amanda to move down to Birmingham, AL. While living there the Spirits lead her to connect with her Southern roots and began doing professional readings at a local shop. This began her journey of being not just a high demand Psychic/Medium/Tarot Reader, but she started teaching classes on the Tarot and becoming a leader in the community. As well learning and practicing Hoodoo/Root working. In the Fall of 2009 Amanda came back home Indianapolis area. While helping her grandparents in their transitions of live she continued her journey. She started to see her gifts of communing with the dead was also an aide to help those in end of live transitions. This began her services of being a Death Doula and finally got certified in 2020. While, her path grew when her love and respect of Haitian Vodou called her to Kanzo as a Mambo Sou Pwen. Today she is a Student of the Mystery School in The Temple of Witchcraft and is focused on helping others all around the world, with clients ranging from the United States, Canada, the U.K. , China, Australia, Japan, Puerto Rico, India, Mexico, Cayman Islands, and Denmark to name a few. People come to her for spiritual guidance, love, relationship, career, and business guidance. Shop 3 Crows Conjure here : https://3crowsconjure.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopefsXSl1t8ThAKXRgfJfA2MnbeDv0hijyKej93lVqCvf7PP6eD ****** If you would like to contact the show about being a guest, please email us at [email protected] Upcoming guests can be found: https://dmneedom.com/upcoming-guest  Follow us on Social Media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_d.m.needom/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bettertopodcastwithdmneedom Intro and Outro music compliments of Fast Suzi ©2025 Better To...Podcast with D. M. Needom Support the show