A sunlit hook can feel like a hand on your shoulder. That’s the energy we chase with Zane Ruttenberg of Thanks Light, as we unpack how Good Timing blends tropical psych shimmer, country ease, and harmony-rich craftsmanship into a record that invites you to stay for the whole side. Zane takes us from his backseat education with The Byrds and the Beach Boys to a lifelong obsession with layered vocals and melodies that last, sharing the human moments that seed lyrics—like a rough morning that turned into a song-worthy phrase.

We get inside the engine room of collaboration. Zane’s ear-trained, punk-spirited songwriting meets the classical rigour of longtime partner Michael Frels, creating friction that sharpens ideas without killing their spark. That push and pull shows up in arrangements that know what to protect—a defining riff, a hooky bassline—and what to open up for play. Along the way, we talk rotating lineups, shared fingerprints on records, and the quiet, unglamorous truth of trusting people after long van rides and late nights. It’s a portrait of a project that feels more like an art collective than a fixed band, yet still manages to sound unmistakably like Thanks Light.

Then we zoom in on Good Timing itself: the faux radio stinger that frames the album’s world, the exotica nods on the nine-minute closer, and the sequencing that makes each song feel necessary. Zane name-checks influences from Martin Denny and Jimmy Buffett to Granddaddy and Texas country pillars, weaving them into a sound that’s escapist without being empty. Finally, he teases what’s next—two albums tracked in parallel, one bright and breezy, the other tender and blue—both shaped to feel cohesive from first note to last.

If you love harmony-rich indie, tropical psych colours, and songs built to last, hit play, follow the show, and leave a review to tell us which moment stuck with you most. Your notes guide future conversations and help more listeners find the music.

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The first spark was private: long walks, headphones on, and albums that asked for total attention. From there, Living Hour grew into a band that treats dynamics like storytelling—opening with noise that dissolves into hush, letting melodies carry both weight and warmth, and trusting listeners to lean in. We sit down with Sam and Gil to trace the arc from university jams in Winnipeg’s DIY rooms to a studio session that captured the bold confidence of Internal Drone Infinity, their new record dropping October 17.

We unpack how ambient influences—Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Explosions in the Sky, and the Social Network score—shaped a patient, spacious approach to songwriting. Sam explains how ideas begin as fragments and vowel sounds, how a riff earns its place by refusing to fade, and how lyrics stepped forward across albums until the new songs felt fully owned. Gil maps the shift from guitar‑forward interplay to arrangements built around Sam’s melodies, and what happens when a new drummer changes the band’s gait in the best way. Touring comes to life here too: the van routines, modular setlists that fit quiet rooms and rock clubs, and the small onstage transitions that make the show breathe.

You’ll hear why release season feels like nesting and training, how social media becomes part amplifier, part chore, and why November’s run is designed like a marathon. We also look ahead: February dates on the West Coast, hopes for Europe and Australia, and a folder of demos that might become an EP. Sam’s ambient side project, Pure Pulp, threads back to the beginning—proof that the private room where songs start remains the core of the band’s voice. If you love indie rock steeped in ambient textures, slow‑core dynamics, and heartfelt vocals, this conversation will lock you in. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs new music, and leave a review to help more listeners find the show.

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A candle lit in a tiny kitchen. A book of poems opened before the phone wakes the world. That’s where this story begins—at the border of dream and day—where Sara Mae Henke (The Noisy) learned to trust the spark that eventually leapt from the page to a microphone. We dig into how a poet’s routine became a musician’s backbone, and how community—slam circles, UT Knoxville’s scene, and a tight-knit queer network in the South—turned a good voice into a living catalogue of songs.

We talk about building an album like a neighbourhood: each track its own house with different colours, but all on the same street. Chappell Roan’s world-per-song approach hovers in the blueprint, while touchpoints span Mannequin Pussy’s snarl, Lucy Dacus’s glow, shoegaze haze, and the country DNA of a Maryland childhood soundtracked by Shania Twain and Carrie Underwood. The deluxe release, The Secret Ingredient Is Even More Meat, isn’t a victory lap—it’s a field report. Nightshade finally arrives from the original writing burst. Tony Soprano grows from an inward whisper to a communal hymn for grief. Morricone exists twice, riding from spaghetti-western swagger to true indie rock. Live tracks capture the Philly lineup breathing new life into the set.

Then we go stranger and truer: clown as a craft lens. Not costume, but consent—to be fully seen, to be in on the joke with the audience, to carry the thought you’d normally take back and turn it into a chorus. We unpack how embarrassment can become voltage, how idiosyncratic structures and non-traditional recording make room for surprise, and why intimacy with listeners beats suspicion. Along the way, we honour the collaborators who opened doors, lent gear, taught etiquette, and showed that independent musicians are some of the most generous people on earth.

If you’re curious about how poetry informs melody, how queer community shapes art, and how a deluxe record can map the life of songs onstage and off, you’ll feel at home here. Join us, subscribe to the show, and tell a friend who needs a spark. And if the music moved you, leave a review—what track hit first, and why?

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What if the truest parts of a record live beneath the surface, shaping what you hear without ever announcing themselves? We sit down with Carson McHone to trace the layers behind Pentimento—from Austin’s all-ages venues to a late-summer desert in West Texas and a snow-dusted session by the Bay of Fundy, tracked to 8-track tape. Along the way, Carson shares the moment she said goodbye to restaurant shifts from the White Horse stage, the journal her mother kept during her first year of life, and how words, melody, and memory braid into songs that feel at once intimate and wide open.

We explore creativity as both posture and practice: the ear training of Suzuki lessons, the freedom of a gifted mandolin, and the patience to catch a song’s thread whether it arrives as a fully formed line or a slow, methodical build. The title Pentimento—borrowed from visual art—becomes a map for the album’s design: the underpainting that persists through time, the overlapping faces of influence, the way a project can hold multiple truths at once. Carson talks about recording to tape, embracing texture over tidy edges, and respecting albums as one living piece rather than a handful of singles. Listeners have responded by pressing play again the moment the last track ends, sensing a narrative that’s felt more than spelled out.

If you’re drawn to songwriting craft, analog recording, Austin music history, or the elemental pull of place—desert heat and ocean tide—you’ll find a lot to love here. We hold space for the practical and the poetic: paying the bills, protecting the creative spark, and building work that would be worth making even if no one heard it. Hit play, share it with a friend who still listens front to back, and leave a review to tell us what layer you heard first.

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A quiet room. Three players. More air than distortion—and somehow it feels heavier. We invited Blake Skipper from Shallowater to pull back the curtain on a second album that trades pedal stacks for patience, lets the drummer steer dynamics, and turns the bass into a melodic foil that fills the trio without clogging the mix. If you’ve ever wondered how slow/fast shifts can feel cinematic, or how minimal gear can still shake a room, this one lands right in your wheelhouse.

We trace the band’s path from Lubbock House shows to an independent release that knows what it wants: space, restraint, and intent. Blake breaks down how songs form in the room, why lyrics usually arrive last, and how a well-timed TikTok plus an Ethel Kane playlist slot helped the music find its people. There’s candour about the DIY grind—distribution, merch, schedules—alongside the pure joy of first tours, late-night drives, and fans who cross state lines for 45 minutes of slowcore catharsis. Expect talk of odd-time grooves, drummer-led accelerations, and the subtle choices that make quiet passages tense and loud moments bloom.

We also explore how reviews reflect the band’s bet: some call it sparse, others call it necessary. That’s the point. When you remove the extra, the melody has to carry, the timing has to mean something, and each player has to leave room for the others. Blake shares what’s ahead—new writing, deeper interplay, and dates with The Raveonettes across Chicago, New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia, and DC—plus a hope to bring their “dirtgaze” north to Canada. If you care about slowcore, alt-gaze, Texas indie, or simply how a small band can sound big through intention, queue it up, lean in, and let the space do the talking.

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Guitars loud, heart louder. Bec Lauder joins us to open the hood on her latest The Vessel—an anthemic, grunge‑meets‑classic‑rock debut built on three‑piece chemistry, fearless writing, and a visual world that turns sidewalks into stage lights. From the first sketchbooks and living‑room dances to songs written in five‑minute bursts, she maps how creativity followed her long before the band was born, and why levity matters as much as catharsis when you’re carrying heavy stories on a hook.

We dig into the city as muse and foil, where Tease Me pokes fun at the gallery of urban swagger, while tracks like Without You let the guard drop. Bec explains how fashion and choreography don’t decorate the music—they extend it. Give It starts in unwashed street clothes and explodes into a fantasy of costume changes and strut, proving rock can stay raw and still dream big. She shares the long road to the record: early sessions at Clive, shifting lineups, rebuilding with an all‑woman trio, and the gutsy call to turn down a life‑changing deal to keep control. That choice shaped the sound and spirit you hear now: tight, urgent, and fully owned.

There’s momentum humming under every moment—release‑party afterglow, a new booking agent, and dates with Cage the Elephant, including a hometown Philly hit. Bec also teases what’s next: daily writing, new rock fire, an experimental hip‑hop/R&B collaboration with Chris Murphy, a pulled‑back feel‑good set, and a Paris shoot with a dancer from the Paris Opera. If you love independent rock, performance‑driven visuals, and artists who build their own worlds, this one’s for you.

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From scribbled journal entries to a critically acclaimed debut album on Merge Records, Casey Gomez Walker's artistic evolution is a testament to creative fluidity and unexpected paths. The frontwoman of Casey Oats opens up about how her background in creative writing led to songwriting only after college, when a gifted guitar from a friend revealed music's accessibility.

"I was having a really bad time when I was like 22, 23. I was sick, sad. My best friend found this cheap electric guitar and picked it up for me when I was sick... it made me realize playing guitar was much easier than I thought." This pivotal moment sparked a musical journey that would eventually culminate in "The Last Missouri Exit," an album Casey describes as "accidentally" capturing the coming-of-age novel she'd been trying to write.

Casey's approach to creativity defies conventional boundaries—she doesn't separate songwriting from other forms of expression, instead collecting phrases, images, and character ideas that eventually find their perfect medium. Her partnership with Spencer Tweedy proved transformative, both personally and artistically. "When I met Spencer, it opened up this... he has lived his whole life knowing that you can make art and it can mean something to a lot of people," she reflects, crediting him with helping her embrace her identity as a musician.

The album's creation was unhurried and organic, with basic tracks recorded in a friend's basement and overdubs added as time allowed. After nearly a year of cold-emailing labels, Merge Records recognized the finished album's brilliance. Now touring with notable acts like Lucius and Superchunk while developing their second record, Casey finds particular joy in hearing how listeners connect with her music: "Having it released and everyone else experiencing it and then holding it back up to you is so cool... that they can relate to it and have the same emotional experience is really special."

Ready to discover your next favorite album? Listen to Casey Oats' "The Last Missouri Exit" and experience the distinctive voice and storytelling that's captivating audiences everywhere.

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Kevin Patrick Sullivan, the creative force behind Field Medic, invites us into the intimate world of his songwriting process in this revealing conversation about musical authenticity, vulnerability, and the realities of life as a touring musician. From his early days performing solo with just a boombox playing cassette drum beats to his current evolution as an artist, Sullivan offers a refreshingly honest look at his creative journey.

"Touring is a 24-hour job where you only work for one hour," Sullivan reflects, capturing the strange dichotomy of performing life – moments of intense connection with audiences followed by the disorienting reality of being "somewhere random" immediately after. This vulnerability extends throughout his music, where he's discovered that the lyrics making him most uncomfortable often resonate most deeply with listeners.

What makes Sullivan's approach particularly fascinating is his disciplined creative routine combined with moments of pure inspiration. He practices what he calls "full-time freestyle," sometimes capturing songs in single, inspired moments, while other times meticulously crafting them over time. "I work on music or songwriting for at least an hour every day, even when I don't want to," he shares, explaining his prolific output with a new album nearly every year.

His latest record, "Surrender Instead," continues his tradition of heart-on-sleeve songwriting while navigating the tension between artistic authenticity and desire for recognition. As Sullivan prepares for his upcoming tour and already begins writing his next project, his philosophy remains steadfast: focus on the feeling rather than technical perfection, stay true to yourself, and don't get too caught up in the small stuff. For anyone who values authentic creative expression or simply enjoys thoughtful, vulnerable songwriting, Field Medic's music offers a welcome reminder that sometimes the most powerful art comes from sharing our most uncomfortable truths.

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Ever wonder what keeps a songwriter creating fresh music after four decades? Robert Forster, the legendary co-founder of The Go-Betweens, takes us on a fascinating journey through his musical evolution—from meeting Grant McLennan at Queensland University to recording his latest solo album "Strawberries" with Swedish musicians.

The conversation unfolds like a masterclass in creative persistence. Forster reveals how The Ramones' debut album gave him the confidence to write his first songs, declaring "if they could do it, I could do it"—while artists like Bowie felt too intimidating with their virtuosic musicians. He candidly shares his struggle with the fundamental songwriter's dilemma: how to create something new when there are only so many chords. His solution involves constant experimentation—inverting chords, using capos, exploring different positions on the fretboard—and the patience to play for months until something genuinely fresh emerges.

Most surprisingly, Forster opens up about nearly abandoning music twice when faced with two-year creative droughts. What kept him going? Simply the joy of creation and, later in life, diversifying his creative outlets through music journalism and writing. This multifaceted approach actually revitalized his songwriting, removing the pressure and allowing new perspectives to emerge. The result is what he considers his most consistent body of solo work over the past decade.

"Strawberries," his latest album recorded with members of Peter Bjorn and John, represents this artistic renaissance. Forster speaks about it with rare satisfaction, suggesting he'd be content not to record for several years because "I don't know how I'm going to top that." Beyond music, he shares exciting news about completing his first novel, set for publication in Australia next year.

Want to witness the magic that happens when an Australian indie legend joins forces with Swedish pop sensibilities? Catch Robert Forster on his European tour this September-October, where he'll be performing with the same musicians who brought "Strawberries" to life.

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Olivia Rose of Oh, Rose opens Season 6 with a candid conversation about musical origins, creative evolution, and embracing life's next chapters. From her early days in Asheville, North Carolina, where her friend's mother taught her guitar at age twelve, to becoming the frontwoman of a respected indie band, Olivia's journey reveals the deep connections between personal experience and artistic expression.

Music flows naturally for Olivia, who recalls waking up as a child with songs already formed in her mind. "I will just start, a song will just come to my head, I can sing about anything that I'm doing at any given moment," she explains. This instinctive approach to songwriting has matured over time, as she translates personal moments into universal themes that resonate with listeners. Her process often begins with a thought or phrase that strikes her as particularly true, developing into fully-formed compositions that sometimes reveal their deeper meanings long after they're written.

The conversation takes a meaningful turn as Olivia, expecting her first child in September, reflects on how motherhood will influence her creative path. Rather than viewing this transition with trepidation, she approaches it with curiosity and openness. Drawing fascinating parallels between the chaos of touring life and the unpredictability of parenthood, she shares advice from a bandmate who recently became a father: "I think you're going to be surprised at how equipped you are for this and how much being in a band and this strange form of chaos that we have chosen over the years is actually going to come in handy."

Olivia's recently released EP "For Art" stands as both a creative milestone and a musical gift for her unborn child, who has been present for the creation of these songs. Though she plans to take a well-deserved break from performing, she assures us that her musical journey continues: "As long as I am writing and playing and recording music, O Rose will continue to exist and evolve." Her story reminds us that art, like life, thrives through transformation and growth.

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Matt Gallaway’s creative journey unfolds like a carefully crafted album—each chapter a different sound or mood, yet all tied together by a thread of honest self-expression. From basement jam sessions in Brooklyn to publishing acclaimed novels, Matt’s story is a powerful reminder of how art can shape, and be shaped by, personal transformation.

In our conversation, Matt shares how Saturnine came together almost by accident. He had moved to New York, supposedly for law school, but really to chase the city’s music scene. He lucked into a Brooklyn apartment with a basement perfect for band rehearsals, and soon after, Saturnine was born. They’d go on to record a handful of under-the-radar but beloved indie albums. Matt still lights up when talking about their first show at Brownies, booked by the legendary Karen Edlitz, and an unforgettable rooftop gig on a sweltering July 4th in Chinatown.

What really sets Matt’s story apart is how deeply intertwined his art is with his personal life. Listening back to Saturnine’s albums—especially Mid the Green Fields—he can now hear the hidden struggle he was going through. “I listen to that record and I’m just like, ‘this is about wanting to kill myself,’” he says, half-laughing, half-sighing. It’s raw, but honest—and a reflection of what it meant to grow up gay in a time when role models were few and far between.

Matt didn’t leave music behind; he just found a new way to tell his story. Writing novels like The Metropolis Case and #Gods let him explore identity and emotion in a more direct way. “A song takes me a few weeks,” he says. “A novel takes years.” But both are cut from the same creative cloth.

Now, with his latest project Death Culture at Sea, Matt is circling back to songwriting—this time with a broader view and a deeper well to draw from. Last summer, he teamed up with former bandmate Mike D’Onofrio and Matt Kadane of Bedhead/The New Year for recording sessions in Vermont, and there’s more music to come.

Want to hear what this journey sounds like? Head to Matt's blog for a playlist of his latest work with Death Culture at Sea.

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Pieter Van Dessel takes us on an unexpected journey from law student to the creative force behind Marble Sounds, revealing how serendipity and persistence shaped his musical evolution. When his wife received a grant to work in Montreal in 2005, Pieter's planned sabbatical transformed into musical opportunity after landing a position at a recording studio. This fortuitous circumstance provided both equipment access and creative community, allowing the first Marble Sounds EP to take shape with help from Canadian musicians.

His evolution as a performer stands as perhaps the most compelling aspect of Pieter's story. With disarming candor, he admits never aspiring to sing or front a band, making his growth all the more remarkable. "I wasn't a born entertainer," he shares. "I really had to learn it." Through countless live shows and persistence, he gradually developed the confidence that studio work alone couldn't provide. The key lesson? Rehearsals only help so much—real growth comes from repeatedly facing audiences.

For Pieter, songwriting remains his natural strength, with musical composition flowing more easily than lyrics. He chases that elusive creative spark—"the best feeling in the world"—that signals something special is emerging. Recent albums showcase distinct artistic approaches: the self-titled 2022 release employed self-playing pianos in deliberately limited arrangements, while 2025's "Core Memory" embraces 80s influences and childhood musical touchpoints like Phil Collins. Looking ahead, fans can anticipate "More Memory" featuring outtakes from recent sessions, while Peter already contemplates his next full album for 2028. Subscribe to hear our conversations with other fascinating musicians whose unexpected paths led to creative breakthroughs.

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What happens when a musician rediscovers their creativity after a 15-year hiatus? Neil Hill's journey with his project SHOPFIRES answers this question with a soul-stirring blend of reverb-drenched melodies and DIY ethos.

Unlike many musicians, Neil grew up in a home devoid of musical influence. No parental record collections, no instruments lying around—just the chance encounters with music through television and radio that would eventually shape his artistic sensibilities. The turning point came through John Peel's legendary radio sessions, introducing him to post-punk and experimental sounds that resonated deeply with his emerging musical identity.

After early musical explorations followed by a lengthy break, Neil returned to creating music with a beautifully minimalist approach. Armed with nothing but "a cheap laptop and the same acoustic guitar from the 80s," he began crafting the intricate, layered soundscapes that define SHOPFIRES. What makes his music truly remarkable is how he creates rich, complex arrangements using just one inexpensive Hohner guitar purchased decades ago for £25.

The result is a sound both nostalgic and fresh—interweaving melodic lines that dance around each other, created through his distinctive technique of recording multiple guitar parts and drenching them in reverb and delay. His latest album "We Are Not There, But We Are Here" represents an evolution toward more mature, cohesive songwriting while maintaining the dreamy atmosphere fans have come to love.

Beyond SHOPFIRES, Neil maintains another project called NEUCLOUDS, his self-described "vacation band" where he challenges himself to write songs under two minutes. This parallel creative outlet showcases his versatility and commitment to exploring different facets of his musical expression.

Listen now to discover how limitations can spark creativity and how sometimes the most beautiful sounds come from the simplest tools. Share your thoughts with us about Neil's unique approach to making music and what inspires your own creative endeavors!

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What happens when toxic furnace fumes accidentally become part of your album's creative process? M Ross Perkins shares this surreal discovery and much more as we delve into his methodical approach to DIY music production.

Growing up with a baseball bat as his imaginary guitar and the crushing disappointment of a shattered Chipmunks record, Perkins' musical journey reflects his systematic yet deeply thoughtful approach to song craft. He reveals how his latest album "What's The Matter M Ross?" came together under bizarre circumstances - with furnace exhaust pumping directly above his writing desk for months. When finally fixed, his bandmates reported sudden clarity during rehearsals, a strange twist that perfectly captures the unpredictable nature of artistic creation.

Perkins takes us behind the curtain of his unique production method, where he records all drum tracks across an entire album before moving to bass, then guitars, and finally vocals. This approach allows him to maintain consistency while maximizing efficiency in his small studio space. He demonstrates remarkable craftsmanship in how he handles tempo, watching a BPM counter while playing claves to allow natural fluctuations within a controlled range - creating recordings that breathe with human authenticity.

Beyond technical insights, our conversation explores deeper philosophical territory. Perkins eloquently dismantles the myth of complete originality in music, comparing it to claiming sole credit for your car while ignoring thousands of workers and generations of innovation behind it. This perspective frames his approach as a "lifelong learner" of his craft, constantly refining his systematic techniques while remaining open to new influences and ideas.

Whether you're a musician looking to improve your own DIY production or simply fascinated by the creative process, Perkins' insights offer a masterclass in thoughtful music creation. Listen now to discover how one artist balances methodical precision with creative spontaneity - even when toxic fumes are accidentally part of the equation.

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Ever wondered how a great band finds its voice? Sheffield's dream pop trio Pale Blue Eyes offers a fascinating glimpse into the alchemy of friendship, creativity, and musical evolution that shapes extraordinary music.

Fresh off their spring UK tour, Matt and Lucy describe how their most recent performances felt like "one big party" with their best mates, culminating in their biggest London show to date at Islington Assembly Hall. This camaraderie extends beyond the stage; it's the foundation of their creative process.

Their origin story reads like indie music serendipity—a photographer named Aubrey, originally there just to document a studio session, stepped in when a bassist didn't show up. Despite never hearing the songs before, he immediately connected with the material. Six months of rehearsals without gigs or even a band name followed, until they had unwittingly created an album's worth of material right before lockdown hit.

The pandemic, while devastating for live music, became an unexpected catalyst. Their first single "went nuts on Bandcamp," offering what Lucy calls "a beacon" during difficult times. Three albums later, their approach to songwriting continues to evolve deliberately. Matt collects phrases, experiences, and observations in notebooks that later become songs, while the band consciously experiments with different creative approaches to avoid falling into patterns.

What makes Pale Blue Eyes special is their ego-free collaboration. Where many bands falter when "someone thinks that they're it," this trio thrives on their differences. Lucy and Matt bonded over shared loves like Broken Social Scene, while Aubrey brings entirely different influences from disco, soul, and jazz backgrounds. This fusion creates their distinctive dream pop sound that blends shoegaze and synth elements into something uniquely captivating.

Listen in as we explore how three friends from Sheffield crafted one of the UK's most exciting musical projects, and discover why their latest album "New Place" feels like their most honest work yet. Are you ready to discover your new favorite band?

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Sibling trio Womb takes us behind the scenes of their dreamy shoegaze sound and shared creative journey. From their childhood musical foundations to the evolution of their distinctive sound, this conversation reveals the beautiful simplicity of creating art with family.

Haz and Georgette (GiGi) share the remarkable story of their musical heritage, tracing back to a great-great-grandfather who holds a world record for distance-walking while playing the fiddle. This musical DNA flourished when the family relocated from Illinois to Wellington, New Zealand, immersing the teenage siblings in a vibrant DIY music scene that would shape their artistic sensibilities.

What began as Cello's solo project organically expanded to include her siblings, with visual artist Georgette courageously picking up drumsticks despite minimal experience. "I did always fantasize about being a musician when I was little," Georgette reveals, recalling childhood dreams of becoming "Alanis Morissette in leather." This natural progression highlights the intuitive understanding that makes their collaboration special—no formal discussions about musical direction needed, just a shared wavelength that produces their cohesive sound.

The band's creative process reveals beautiful insights into collaborative artmaking. Their innovative "self-imposed residencies" carve out dedicated space for creation away from day jobs and distractions, blending structured music-making with time to connect in nature. This approach has yielded three distinctive yet connected albums, including their latest release "One is Always Heading Somewhere."

Looking ahead, the band hints at exciting developments: Cello's upcoming residency in Spanish cave structures, potential string quartet collaborations, and film scoring projects. After completing what they consider a trilogy of albums, they stand at the threshold of a new artistic chapter, ready to explore fresh sonic territories while maintaining the sibling bond that gives their music its emotional depth.

Listen for an intimate glimpse into how family connections create artistic magic, and how three siblings from New Zealand crafted one of indie music's most distinctive voices.

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What happens when a band decides to record not just one album, but a complete 52-song deck of cards? Ryan Walsh of Hallelujah the Hills takes us deep into his most ambitious creative undertaking yet.

"DECK" represents what Walsh calls "revenge creativity" – a defiant response to the pandemic that halted their momentum following their acclaimed 2019 album "I'm You." Rather than producing a standard follow-up, Walsh finally brought to life an idea he'd contemplated for two decades: creating a complete musical deck of cards with four distinct "suits" (albums) each containing thirteen songs.

The concept is brilliantly executed – Diamonds features polished, radio-friendly tracks; Clubs delivers faster, punkier "bangers"; Hearts showcases emotionally vulnerable material; while Spades explores experimental territory. Beyond the musical organization, Walsh designed custom artwork for each song, available as an actual playable card deck that fans can purchase alongside the music.

Most fascinating is how the project reimagines listener engagement in the streaming era. Walsh encourages fans to "shuffle the deck" by randomly selecting 13 songs to create unique playlists that statistically no one else will ever duplicate. This transforms passive consumption into something participatory and personal, giving listeners agency in how they experience this massive body of work.

The album features notable collaborations including Cassie Berman (Silver Jews) and Jeremy Gaudet (Kiwi Jr), reflecting Walsh's collaborative songwriting approach. As Hallelujah the Hills celebrates its 20th anniversary in November 2025, "DECK" stands as both an artistic milestone and a defiant statement against disposable music culture: "You work on something for two years. It gets attention for 48 hours and then everyone's on the next thing... we made this in defiance of that idea."

Listen to "DECK" when it releases this June and catch Hallelujah the Hills on tour across the Northeast as they share this extraordinary musical achievement with the world.

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Nick Bendzsa sits down with us to peel back the layers of his musical metamorphosis from synth-pop architect to folk-trap innovator. The Newfoundland native, now based in Montreal, candidly reveals how his sound has evolved alongside his personal journey.

Growing up with a music professor father who specialized in experimental and improvised compositions, Nick absorbed the spirit of musical freedom from an early age. While his teenage years found him playing bass in a blues band and performing for crowds of 2,000 at just 17, his true artistic voice was still developing. Nick reflects on how these formative experiences shaped his approach to music-making: "I think it was very much like being around him and going to his concerts and picking up this spirit of freedom through music and the joy of creation."

The conversation delves into the fascinating transition from his previous project Hello—characterized by densely layered electronic soundscapes—to his current solo work under his own name. This shift wasn't just stylistic but represented a deeper change in creative philosophy. "I'm not trying to add frivolous stuff," Nick explains. "I want to just communicate a bit more directly." His self-described "trap folk" sound merges fingerpicked guitars with trap beats and ambient textures, creating something uniquely authentic that flows from genuine emotional experiences rather than genre conventions.

Particularly illuminating is Nick's discussion of how producing for other artists has informed his own work, teaching him to consider what elements truly serve the emotional core of a song. This perspective has helped him embrace minimalism and authenticity over the pressure to create attention-grabbing pop songs in today's saturated music landscape. With his album "Very Soft Glow" set to release on May 24th, Nick Bendzsa invites us to witness the next chapter in his evolving musical story—one that promises to continue blurring boundaries while remaining firmly rooted in emotional truth.

Subscribe to hear more conversations with boundary-pushing indie artists who are redefining genres and creating deeply personal music on their own terms.

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When does a musical project truly end? Scott Garred of Super XX Man thought he had written the final chapter when he crafted an obituary for his 30-year-old band. Yet somehow, what began as a nostalgic blog post excavating old flyers and cassettes transformed into an unexpected resurrection.

The creative spark reignited when longtime collaborator Allie Wesley reached out after seeing Scott's posts. "It'd be so fun to do something together again," she wrote, not knowing those words would breathe new life into a project Scott had considered complete. That simple connection opened the floodgates to what Scott describes as "the community that was Super XX Man." Soon, songs that had been sitting in limbo found their way to Portland producer Adam Seltzer, forming the foundation of "Rusted Hues" - the first Super XX Man album in a decade.

Throughout our conversation, Scott shares fascinating insights into his creative process, describing how he immerses himself in music daily as both a music therapist and a perpetual student of the craft. "I play music every day," he explains, detailing how creativity generates more creativity once he begins recording. We journey back to his formative musical moments, from the friend who taught him two simple guitar chords that "changed my musical life right then and there" to his first experiences with home recording on a four-track that made songwriting feel accessible.

Most movingly, Scott reflects on what performing means after three decades of making music. "I don't think it's bravery," he says about sharing deeply personal songs. "It's a privilege to be able to go play a show and stand in front of one person, two people, a thousand people." Whether playing in a church basement in Wisconsin or to hundreds in Japan, the feeling remains the same: "When I'm really singing, and it's resonating in my own heart - there's nothing like it." Join us for this intimate look at musical resurrection, creative persistence, and finding renewed purpose in artistic community.

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Garage punk with heart and soul? Australian band Delivery proves it's not only possible—it's transformative.

When Rebecca Allen and James Lynch first connected romantically eight years ago, they weren't immediately thinking musical collaboration. Despite James gifting Rebecca her first bass guitar and both gravitating toward punk sounds, they maintained separate musical journeys until COVID lockdowns created the perfect environment for creative fusion.

"We were at home where you couldn't go out with nothing to do," explains James, "and somehow the idea of 'should we try and make some songs together' happened." That spontaneous decision launched what would become Delivery—a five-piece powerhouse featuring three guitars and four vocalists across their catalog.

Their latest album "Force Majeure" showcases a band that understands the delicate balance between intensity and accessibility. Songs like "Digging Holes" deliver raw garage punk energy while tracks like "New Alphabet" reveal a more melodic, Pavement-inspired sensibility. This thoughtful approach to sonic dynamics creates what host Chris describes as a "soothing" quality unusual for the genre—a testament to the band's mature songwriting approach.

What truly defines Delivery is their commitment to genuine collaboration. "We definitely wanted it to be a band, not like a duo project," James emphasizes. This democratic ethos allows each member to contribute ideas freely, resulting in music that feels both cohesive and delightfully unpredictable. Whether workshopping riffs together in rehearsal or meticulously layering guitars in the studio, the process maintains an "anything goes" attitude that keeps their sound fresh.

The band's live performances capture this collaborative spirit perfectly—high-energy affairs where, as Rebecca puts it, "we have a lot of fun on stage playing together, and that feeds into the crowd too." This authentic connection with audiences has helped Delivery build an expanding international following.

From bedroom recordings to world tours, Delivery represents what happens when musical community prioritizes genuine expression over rigid formulas. As they continue crafting new material for 2025, their journey stands as inspiration for anyone seeking to create art that balances power with nuance, intensity with melody, and individual expression with collective joy.

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Meet liz uninvited, an emerging voice in Toronto's indie folk scene whose journey from classical pianist to DIY songwriter reveals the beautiful alchemy that happens when traditional training meets raw creative necessity.

Our conversation uncovers how Liz's 12-year classical piano background initially hindered rather than helped her songwriting ambitions. The structured nature of classical training left little room for improvisation—until inspiration struck through the music of Elliott Smith and Alex G. What's particularly striking is how Liz found permission to create through Alex G's "subjectively good" vocals. "His voice is not the best, but it matches what he makes," she explains, illuminating the moment she realized authenticity could transcend conventional notions of musical "goodness."

When Liz describes her creative process, you'll feel the urgency that drives her art. Songs emerge from "pressure internally" that demands release, with lyrics serving as the essential connective tissue binding her musical ideas. As a self-described "sensitive person," uncomfortable situations often become the catalyst for her most authentic work. Yet before discovering songwriting, she felt emotionally "stuck," unable to translate her feelings even through her visual art practice. Music became the unexpected but perfect medium for expression.

We also explore the practical side of breaking into Toronto's music scene—from finding band members through Reddit and Band Mix to preparing for first live performances. Liz shares candid insights about the challenges of ADHD and how deadlines ultimately force her creative focus. Her definition of success is refreshingly genuine: creating meaningful connections with listeners who see themselves in her music.

Discover Liz's music on Spotify, YouTube, or Bandcamp, and follow her journey as she brings her intimate, lyrically-rich songs to stages across Toronto and beyond. If you connect with artists who transform personal struggle into universal emotion, Liz Uninvited's music will feel like a conversation you've been waiting to have.

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Ever wondered how music that feels so effortless and dreamy actually comes together? Bill from Darksoft pulls back the curtain on his creative process, revealing the fascinating intersection of mathematical precision and emotional resonance that defines his signature sound.

Growing up surrounded by music—with a cellist mother and pianist father who pioneered home recording—Bill's path to becoming a musician feels almost predetermined. Yet his approach to creating atmospheric indie rock is distinctly his own. "Maybe I never grew up fully," he reflects, describing how childhood musical experiences laid the groundwork for his DIY ethos. Rather than seeing this hands-on approach as limiting, Bill embraces it as both practical and ethical in an industry where margins are thin.

What truly distinguishes Darksoft's music is Bill's conceptual framework. Each album begins with an overarching philosophical idea—his latest release "Rationalism" explores how we understand the world through thought rather than direct experience. This thoughtful foundation supports songs built through meticulous layering: starting with chord progressions (often in drop D tuning), adding sub bass, plucky bass guitar, rhythm guitar, and finally jangly leads. "I've kind of built my own formula or algorithm," he explains, embracing rather than resisting the mathematical patterns inherent in music creation.

The result is music that creates a "swell," gently cradling listeners in waves of sound that feel simultaneously comforting and subtly complex. It's an approach that's connecting with a growing audience, with tours planned across the US and new music on the horizon. Whether you're drawn to the philosophical underpinnings or simply love getting lost in dreamy soundscapes, Darksoft offers a musical experience that rewards repeated listening—each layer revealing itself with time, just as Bill intended.

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What happens when music transforms from an obligation to a lifeline? UK singer-songwriter Sophie Jamieson takes us on her remarkable journey from classical training to authentic self-expression in this deeply moving conversation.

Growing up with piano lessons and orchestral bassoon playing, Sophie never truly connected with music until she discovered songwriting in university. During a period of mental health struggles, writing her own songs became what she calls "the kindest thing I could do for myself" – a radical act of self-compassion that changed everything.

Sophie shares the fascinating evolution of her creative process, revealing how she's become increasingly "lyric forward" over time. She's particularly drawn to the power of a song's first line, which often emerges quickly and without overthinking, guiding the rest of the composition naturally. "I find it really interesting how within a sentence there's a word that wants to be long, a couple of short words that are rhythmic, and somehow you can just hear chord changes within that," she explains.

The conversation explores the vulnerability inherent in sharing deeply personal work with the world. Rather than feeling exposed, Sophie finds that true songs tap into something universal: "When you've written something that feels like you want to share it, it's because you realize you've tapped into something that's a bit bigger than you." This perspective transforms vulnerability from a risk to a strength.

Sophie also reflects on the magical connection that happens during live performances – "the most alive kind of space to be in" – where songs take on their own life beyond both performer and audience. As she looks ahead to a year of shows across the UK and Europe while developing new material, her focus remains on putting creativity first and worrying less about industry expectations.

Listen now to this enlightening conversation about finding your authentic voice, the healing power of creativity, and the courage to share your truth with the world. If you've ever struggled with self-expression or wondered how artists transform personal pain into universal connection, this episode offers both inspiration and practical insights from an artist at the height of her powers.

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Dive into the creative world of Brooklyn-based indie artist Caroline Strickland as she unpacks the emotional journey behind her latest EP "Martha's Calling." From humble beginnings playing her father's guitar at age 13 to forming her high school band "RIP ROX" (named after her drummer's deceased lizard), Caroline's path to songwriting authenticity reveals the beautiful evolution of an artist finding her voice.

Caroline candidly discusses how her creative process has transformed over time—from the youthful days when songs would "just pour out" to her current, more deliberate approach to crafting music. This evolution mirrors her growth as both an artist and person, particularly through challenging periods like breakups that sparked some of her most powerful work.

The conversation delves into the fascinating origins of "Martha's Calling," where Martha emerges as a metaphorical figure representing Caroline's "desire for a sign and something to save me." What began as a character in a concept EP evolved into a profound exploration of seeking external validation during times of inner turmoil. Perhaps most touching is the story behind "Prettiest Girl of Heaven," born from a stranger's comment while Caroline was crying on a Manhattan street—a perfect example of how unexpected moments can catalyze creativity.

Looking forward, Caroline shares her excitement about leaning more into indie rock for future projects, including a potential full-length album. She's embracing a balanced approach to music-making while preparing for upcoming performances, including opening for Bria Salmena in Brooklyn and an East Coast DIY tour.

Support independent artists like Caroline by streaming her music, attending shows, and purchasing merchandise. Her authentic songwriting and evolving sound make her an artist worth following as she continues to transform personal struggles into compelling musical stories that resonate with listeners everywhere.

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Musicians often speak of finding their voice, but for Zoya Zafar, that journey has been both literal and metaphorical. The Orlando-based indie folk artist takes us through her evolution from a shy child who couldn't sing in front of others to a songwriter whose dreamy, atmospheric compositions have drawn comparisons to Mazzy Star and Cat Power.

What makes Zafar's story particularly compelling is how her musical development intertwines with her cultural heritage. Growing up in a creatively encouraging South Asian household defied stereotypical expectations, with her grandmother performing classical ghazal (poetic songs) and family members immersed in various artistic pursuits. Unlike musicians who discovered music through their parents' record collections, Zafar's education came through her own explorations – random compilation CDs, film soundtracks, and the early 2000s indie scene featuring artists like Badly Drawn Boy and Bright Eyes.

The conversation reveals powerful insights about artistic perseverance through life's most challenging moments. After consistently releasing music for years, Zafar experienced a significant hiatus between 2017/2018 and 2024, coinciding with both the pandemic and profound personal tragedy – the deaths of her father and grandmother within months of each other. "For a while it was like, 'Oh, I'm not a real artist if I can't turn my pain into art,'" she reflects, before realizing healing needed to precede creation. Her 2024 album "Some Songs," partially recorded remotely during COVID while dealing with health challenges, represents not just music but a milestone of personal resilience.

Listen to Zafar's latest single "I Don't Love You" at the end of the episode, and discover how her evolution from wordier compositions to more spacious, minimal arrangements reflects the journey of an artist who has learned the power of what remains unsaid. As she hints at experimental future directions, it's clear her artistic journey continues to unfold in fascinating ways.

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