The return of Zak Smith! I first had Zak on the show six months ago for Episode 028. I couldn't wait to catch up with him, and this was the perfect time. His new album is being released May 1, 2012. We talked about the recording of the album and talked through a few of the songs. We also talked about his mobile app. I have it, and it is great!  The content is updated often, and it's a fun way to stay up to date with everything going on in his world. Zak and I also have a shared love of protest music, so we talked about the evolution and current state of the Occupy movement. Zak allowed me to include two songs from the new album. After you listen, please buy the album.  It is solid from start to finish. You can learn more about Zak at http://www.zaksmithband.com/zaksmith.cfm. If you see Zak, please tell him that you heard him here first!  Enjoy!

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-075-zak-smith

Episode 074 - Jenavive

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-071-jo-nash

I was honored to make a call to Chicago to speak with bluesman Mud Morganfield. He is the eldest son of the legendary Muddy Waters, but there is much more to the story. He is proudly carrying on his pop's tradition and is making quite a name for himself. We talked about his latest album called "Son of the Seventh Son", out now on Severn Records. He also shared some memories of Muddy and why it is so important that we support blue music and the musicians that make it. He allowed me to include two songs on this episode, and we talked through some of the stories behind the songs. This is a great album. I have been listening to it daily since I bought it, and I encourage you to do the same. Enjoy the interview!

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

I recently called over to the UK and spoke with the band Lets Go Safari! I had a great conversation with Ryan Wood (vocals), Clive Coats (guitar), and the newest member James Mosley (drums). We talked about their recent signing with Red Dragon Records, and their upcoming single called "Oh, Jane Doe". It will be available on 5/9/12. They also told me how the band was formed, their influences, and the music scene in England. We also talked about some non music topics like the difference between audience expectations in the US and the UK, and our favorite tv shows. These guys were a lot of fun to interview, and I love their sound. They were nice enough to let me include two of their songs with this episode. Learn more about them at http://www.reverbnation.com/letsgosafariuk. Enjoy the interview, and if you reach out to them, tell that you heard them here first! 

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-069-lets-go-safari

Episode 068 - Bob Corritore

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-068-bob-corritore

Episode 067 - Tail Dragger

Today's guest is known by many names...James Yancy Jones...Crawlin' James...Tail Dragger. To me he is a bluesman, shaman, and a living link to the legends of Chicago blues. I was honored to talk to him about his life, his career, and the new album that he and Bob Corritore just released. It is called "Longtime Friends in the Blues" and is out now on the Delta Groove Music label. He told me why Howlin' Wolf called him Tail Dragger, and how he first met Bob at a Howlin' Wolf tribute show at the 1815 Club in Chicago. It was 1976, and the day after the Wolf died. It was there that they became lifetime friends. Two songs from the new album are included with this episode. If you like what you hear, go out and buy the album and support these talented blues legends. I hope to have Tail Dragger on again real soon to hear more about his many adventures. Enjoy! (Image Courtesy of Jennifer Wheeler)

Episode 066 - Aaron Lynde

Trip Effect is a power trio from Rockford, IL. I recently met with their bass player, Aaron Lynde, for some great conversation. We talked about the band, their influences, and some exciting projects that they have in the works. Derek Carley is the singer and guitar player, and Eric Colvin is the drummer. Aaron told me how the band came together, and gave me an idea of what their live shows are like. They are planning on performing at a big festival in Battle Creek, MI. Aaron allowed me to include two of their songs with this episode. They have such a good sound. They are gaining popularity all through the midwest and beyond. You can learn more about them at http://www.reverbnation.com/tripeffect. They have an EP out now called Second Life. Check it out! Enjoy the interview!

Episode 065 - Go Lazarus

Go Lazarus is an amazing 3 piece band from the UK. Their 3 Strikes EP is available now! I met with Anthony McAteer (guitar & vocals), Adam Chatwin (bass), and Dan Carnevale (drums). We talked through a lot of cool topics during this interview. They told me how the band came together, their influences, and their approach to songwriting. We also talked about building a worldwide fan base through social media, and getting their music in the hands of their fans. I had a great time talking with these guys. You can tell that have a shared history, and I thank them for letting me in to learn their story and share it with all of you. This episode also includes two of their songs. Be sure to check out the rest of their music. You can learn more about them at http://www.reverbnation.com/golazarus. Enjoy the music and the conversation, and tell them Matt sent you!

Episode 064 - Nathan James

Nathan James recently released an album with The Rhythm Scratchers called "What You Make Of It". It is his first release on Delta Groove Music. I love his approach to the blues. He uses some unique instruments that he builds himself which contributes to his sound. We talked about the new album, his influences, and his musical relationship with blues veteran James Harman. You can learn more about Nathan at http://nathandjames.com/fr_home.cfm. I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet with him and get to know him. He also allowed me to include two songs from "What You Make Of It". If you like them, please be sure to pick up the whole album!  Enjoy the interview! (Image Courtesy of Milton Pitts)

Episode 063 - Becca B

Becca B is a musician from the UK. A lot of exciting things are happening in her career right now, and I am honored to have the chance to share her story with you. She was born in Germany and later moved to England. We talked about her varied influences which range from Donny Osmond to the Spice Girls...and all points in between! Becca has a very supportive network of family and friends, as well as a strong Manager. She recently signed a record deal with Red Dragon Records, and has many new songs that she is working on. We talked about her approach to songwriting and some of the recent gigs that she has played. She has an EP available now, and I encourage you to check it out. I am including two songs with this episode. You can learn more about her at  http://www.reverbnation.com/beccab. I love having opportunity to bring you up and coming talent like Becca. She has an amazing attitude and energy. You can tell that she really loves what she is doing. Please reach out to her and tell her that Matt sent you!  Enjoy the interview! 

Episode 062 - Steve Lemak

The return of my favorite tattoo artist, Mr. Steve Lemak! Steve is the owner of The Quillian in Allentown, Pa. I first introduced him to you back in Episode 020. That interview took place during one of his appointments, and my goal there was to give you an idea of the conversations that take place in a tattoo shop. I received a lot of positive feedback, and I was eager to have Steve on again for a one on one interview. My son and I met Steve in a local diner for lunch, and we had another great conversation. His Skindustry Expo 2012 is coming up in the next few weeks, and the timing felt right. We talked about what it was like to set the Expo in motion, his reasons for doing it, and his focus on making it an event that people want to come back to year after year. We also talked about his life, the impact of the economy on the tattoo world, and politics. Steve is such an intelligent guy, and always keeps things interesting.  Talking with him is one of the things that I look forward to the most when I have work done at his shop. On top of that, he is a fantastic artist that keeps you involved in every step of the tattoo process. Skindustry Expo 2012 takes place on from 3/30-4/1. Learn more at http://skindustryexpo.com/contest.html. You can also visit Steve at http://thequillian.com/. Check him out, and tell him Matt sent you!  Enjoy!

Episode 061 - Grace Adele

Grace Adele is a singer/songwriter based in Nashville, TN. I had the opportunity to meet with her to talk about her life and music. She grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and started out as a dancer. She had early aspirations to be a Rockette at Radio City Music Hall, and she told me about her experiences with auditioning and training to be a part of that world. Her focus moved on to music and she spent some time as a backup singer in local bands. From there she focused on writing her own songs, and released an album in 2009 called "Never Lost". We spent some time talking about the music scene in Nashville, and how much she enjoys being on the road. Grace Adele and the Grand Band will be releasing their album "The Grand Sessions" on 3/20/12. She was nice enough to allow me to include two songs from that album on this show! Once you hear them, I know that you will want the whole album!  Learn more at http://www.graceadelemusic.com/home. Enjoy the interview!

Episode 059 - Ilona

Ilona is a singer based in the UK. I spoke with her on the eve of her first trip to the United States. She will be performing several shows at the South by Southwest music festival in Austin, and she is very excited! This was her very first phone interview, and I am honored to bring her story to you. We talked about her upbringing in Bulgaria and her eventual move to London. Her career is on the fast track, and she has the talent to back it up. She told me about her time spent as a backup singer, and a chance meeting with music legend Tony Moore. They have written several songs together, and are hard at work in the studio. They recently completed work on the song "All She'll Ever Need", and allowed me to feature it on this show! Learn more about her at http://www.ilonamusic.com/wordpress/ and enjoy the interview! I am sure we will be hearing a lot more from this gifted artist!

Episode 058 - Keith Moody

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-058-keith-moody

My holiday gift to you...The return of Geri X to the show! I first met Geri back in September, and I couldn't wait to catch up with her. We talked about her recent six week tour of Europe. She spent time in France, England, and Bulgaria. She shared some very cool stories of her experiences there. She also let me know that she was homesick, and her next tour abroad will not be quite so long. When she came back, she went straight to the Dark Songs Festival. She told me all about it. Geri will be in the studio in January to record her latest record. She is planning an April release. It was great to talk to Geri again. She always has so much to going on. Please visit her at her website http://gerixmusic.com/ and enjoy the interview!

Episode 041 - Pieter "Big Pete" van der Pluijm

Big Pete is a blues singer/harp master from the Netherlands. He recently called me up and we had a great conversation about his new album "Choice Cuts". It is his debut album here in the US. I have it, and I told Big Pete how much I like it. He had the opportunity to work with several of his influences while recording the album. It has a real live and genuine feel to it, and you can tell that they had a fun time making it. We also talked about how we were both influences by our parents' record collection and our mutual love of the blues. Big Pete originally started out on guitar but moved to the harmonica. I am glad that he did! He has a great sound! Check him out at http://www.deltagrooveproductions.com/music/artists/big_pete/main.html. I hope you enjoy the interview. Pick up "Choice Cuts" today, and enjoy!

I recently called Denmark to speak with singer/songwriter Silas Siphan. He has been a musician for over 20 years, and is currently putting the finishing touches on his latest EP. We talked his influences, his background, and our shared love of vinyl albums. He also told me about his heavy metal past. We have a lot in common, and it was great to speak with him. He has a positive energy and that really comes through in his songs. We also talked about the benefits and challenges of navigating through all of the places to connect with fans on the internet. Silas has a strong internet presence and is building quite a fan base throughout the world. You can hear some of his songs and watch his videos at http://www.reverbnation.com/silassiphan. Also look for him on Facebook and Twitter. Please tell him that you heard him here first! Enjoy!

Brooke Shive & the 45's are about to release their debut album called Way Past Gone. I met with vocalist Brooke, and her father/drummer Steve. We talked about the new album and how it came together. They have been playing together for a few years now, and the time was right to put out an album. Brooke has a lot of experience with performing in front of an audience and Steve has been a professional musician for over 40 years. He has worked with some amazing people over the years, and was very eager to one day start a band with Brooke. They are billed as the only father/daughter act in popular music. We talked about that dynamic and what it adds to the band. The bond that they share is evident in their music and live shows. They have varied musical influences, but what comes out is 100% theirs. They do some covers, and Steve told me about the care they take when selecting those songs. They have to fit the band and the overall sound. I really enjoyed meeting with them. They are such nice and genuine people. That comes out in everything they do. You can visit them at http://www.brookeshive.com/. Be sure to tell them that Matt sent you. Enjoy!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-039-brooke-and-steve-shive

Tom Aczel is a world class harmonica player. He is in a band called Tavern Tan and has been one of my musical mentors for several years now. Tom, along with Doug Ashby and Dave Joachim, are the guys that convinced me that starting this podcast was something that I would be good at. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to go for it. He has been a strong supporter of the show, and I couldn't wait to have him on. He has so many cool stories. We talked about his approach to songwriting, growing up in New York, and the devastating illness that he has since recovered from. I learned a lot about Tom during this interview and I respect even more than I did before. He has such a strong knowledge of the blues and its impact on modern music. Tom and Doug also ran the monthly Blues Jam at Godfrey Daniels for many years, and we spent some time talking about the good times that we had there.  Tavern Tan plays out often in the Lehigh Valley area. Learn more about them at http://taverntan.com/home.html. Enjoy!

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

I was thrilled for the opportunity to speak with Elvin Bishop. His music has been a part of my life for so long. As a result, I was a bit nervous. He was very gracious though, and spent almost 30 minutes talking with me. Trying to fit 50 years worth of stories into that timeframe was a daunting task, but I did my best. We talked about his childhood, his National Merit Scholarship which led him to the University of Chicago, and his early days in music. He told me about the first time that he met Paul Butterfield. It was his first day in Chicago! I asked him about his guitars, and his 1976 hit song "Fooled Around and Fell in Love". That song is very near and dear to my heart. It reminds me of growing up in the 70s. You can learn more about Elvin at his website http://www.elvinbishopmusic.com/. Enjoy!

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-037-elvin-bishop

Isabel Aimee is a singer, songwriter, artist, owner of The Art Tree in Shepton Mallet in the UK...The list goes on and on! She was nice enough to meet with me after a showcase gig at her gallery. We talked about her background and influences, her music, and her art. She has such a positive energy about her. She is all about sharing her talents and knowledge of music with everyone. She told me about the origins of her musical project "Inspirition" and her future touring plans. She shared some of her songs with me, and her voice is beautiful. Please visit her at http://www.INSPIRITION.me.uk and http://www.the-art-tree.com/. Getting to know her was a very positive experience for me, and I can't wait for you to share in our conversation. Enjoy!!!

Drummer Vern Mobley stopped by my house last weekend and we had a fantastic conversation. His band, Fusion Jazz Trio, is going to celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2012. He told me about the band from the early days to today, and the importance of the chemistry that he shares with his band mates. They have been playing together for so long that they know where each other is going in a song. This makes it a lot of fun for them as performers, and makes for an exciting show for their fans. Vern is very active in the local music scene. He wears many hats, and he talked with me about how he balances family and music. We also talked about his roots in gospel music, and how is father was a major musical influence in his life. Vern was a lot of fun to interview, and he shared many greats stories and insights. You can find him online at http://www.vernmobley.com/fr_thebeginning.cfm and http://www.fusionjazztrio.net/. I hope that you enjoy this as much as I did. Let me know!

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

Episode 034 - Billy Morris

Billy Morris has been a musician for as long as he can remember. I caught up with him recently and he told me all about it. He always knew what he wanted to do, and had the support of his family early on which really helped him. He has been part of the local Cleveland hard rock scene for over 25 years, and nationally as the guitarist for Warrant and Quiet Riot. He is also a club owner, and plays guitar with Cleveland's Breakfast Club. I told Billy how much I appreciated his band's covers of Van Halen, and how great his playing is. He makes each song his own. He told me about his friendship with Jani Lane, and how he was offered the Warrant gig. Billy is the real deal, and music keeps him going. You can lean more about him at http://clevelandsbreakfastclub.com/main.htm. Enjoy the interview. I had a great time talking about the old days, and what is next for him. Let me know what you think!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-034-billy-morris

Episode 033 - Rachel Lee Walsh

Rachel Lee Walsh is a singer/songwriter from NYC. I gave her a call recently to talk about her music and life in the city. Rachel has spent most of her life there, but she grew up down south. We talked about how that has influenced her and how it impacts her today. She told me about her musical influences and the work she is doing for her new album. Rachel has a place on her website where you can donate or preorder it, and I suggest you do so. It is getting harder and harder for talented musicians like Rachel to get their music out there, and this is a way to help. Visit her online at http://www.rachelleewalsh.com/. She also has some tour dates coming up in 2012, so come out and see her. Enjoy the interview!

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-033-rachel-lee-walsh

I caught up with singer/songwriter Megan Burtt on a recent tour stop in Texas. Her love of music started at a very young age. She started playing her grandmother's piano at age 6, and moved to guitar by age 15. Within a year of finding her father's guitar she was winning songwriting competitions. She attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston to hone her technique, then hit the road for life experiences. She released an album in 2010 called "It Ain't Love". She is currently touring the country bringing her music to as many people as possible. This year will end with tour stops in the PA State Prison System. Megan told me about her experiences while performing for the inmates. Learn more about Megan at her website,  http://www.meganburtt.com/, and please buy her album!  Enjoy the interview!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-032-megan-burtt

I recently saw a performance of The Michael Williams Band here in Allentown, PA. They were supporting Buddy Guy. It was an incredible experience! I was blown away, and I knew that I needed to have Michael on my show. I got my wish a week later. Michael had a couple of days off, and was nice enough to share some of his time with me. We talked about touring with Buddy Guy and how much he enjoys the audiences on the east coast. We also talked about his latest album called "Fire Red". I have a copy, and I appreciate how well his guitar tone in the studio matches his live performance. The album was produced by none other than Eddie Kramer. Michael is such a genuine musician and truly cares about his fans. He is out at the merch table every night to give his audience the chance to meet him and get an autograph. We also talked about his father, the late great Junior Medlow. Michael is certainly carrying on his father's legacy through his own music. You can find out more about Michael at http://michaelwilliamsband.com/. He is still out on the road, so if you have a chance to see one of his electrifying performances, take it!  Enjoy the interview! (Image courtesy of Chris M. Junior http://chrismjunior.shutterbugstorefront.com/)

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/episode-031-michael-williams

Gina Sicilia is a singer from The Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. I had the opportunity to give her a call and talk about her music and her career. Gina graduated from Temple University with a degree in journalism, but music was always her passion. While in school she started going to local blues jams at Warmdaddy's in Philadelphia. It was there that she met some musicians that had a big impact on her musical direction. Within a month of releasing her first self produced album she was picked up by a label that gave her worldwide distribution opportunities. She has been nominated for several awards and all of her albums are met with positive reviews. Gina told me about her recent performance at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago. We shared our mutual admiration of Buddy Guy and talked through her involvement with various forms of social media. Gina will be releasing a Christmas single on 11/16/11 called "Shine Down On Us". It is an online exclusive, and 100% of the proceeds will benefit the St. Jude' Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. Please check it out, and enjoy the interview! You can visit Gina at her website http://www.ginasicilia.com/fr_photos.cfm.

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

Tom Hingley is a legendary musician from Manchester, UK. He has fronted such influential bands as Inspiral Carpets and The Lovers, and also has released many amazing albums as a solo artist. I have been a fan for quite some time, and it was a thrill to have him on my show. We talked about his early days, and some of his influences. The remainder of our call covered various subjects. I won't give any details away here. I encourage you to listen, and let the topics unfold as they did for me. Tom is a very intelligent man. You can tell that he puts a lot of thought into his views. He also displays a quick wit and sense of humor throughout. I know that I learned a lot during our time together and he really made me think. This interview goes way beyond music and the arts, and I loved every minute of it. I also told him how much I enjoy his 2009 album "Thames Valley Delta Blues". It is made up of Tom's distinct voice, and acoustic instruments. Please check it out! Tom can be found in multiple places online. A good place to start is http://www.tomhingley.co.uk/. Enjoy, and please send me your thoughts!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-029-tom-hingley-inspiral-carpets-the-lovers

I recently spoke with Zak Smith. He is a New Jersey native and founder of the Zak Smith Band. He is busy putting the finishing touches on his latest album. We talked about his influences, and our shared love of songs that tell a story. We also covered Occupy Wall Street, and a recent video that Zak shot there. He appreciates protest music, and the effects it can have on a movement. Please visit Zak at his website, http://www.zaksmithband.com/zaksmith.cfm, and check out his new APP for Itunes and Droid. His music is also available there, as well as show dates. You are going to like what you find!  Enjoy the interview!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-028-zak-smith

I recently called Natalie Nicole Gilbert in Los Angeles, CA. She is a multi talented performer with experience in radio and voiceover work. She is also an amazing singer/songwriter. She is currently in the process of raising money for her latest project called "Hardcopy". Details on this can be found at  http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/natalienicolegilbert/hardcopy. We talked through the music business, her experience in radio, and an accident that could have changed things forever for her. She was very motivated to make a full recovery, and she did so. It was so inspiring for me to talk with a person that makes things happen in her career. She knows exactly what she wants, and she goes for it. Natalie Nicole has a very strong web presence. Visit her at http://natalienicolegilbert.com/ while you listen to our conversation. It was a good one. Enjoy!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-027-natalie-nicole-gilbert

I recently called Sarah McCallum at her home in Sydney, Australia. We had a very nice conversation that covered her background and her music. I have a copy of her Miss Little album called "When Things Fall Apart and Into Place". I told her how much I enjoy each song on the album, and my appreciation of the fact that there are musical surprises in each selection. As a listener you can't predict where the songs will take you, and that makes it exciting. In addition to the great music, Sarah's voice draws you in. She comes from a musical family, and music has been a big part of her life from the very beginning. We talked about her winning a global competition sponsored by Crowded House, and sharing the stage with the band. Neil Finn is one of her influences and that was quite an honor for her. Having the chance to talk to such a talented and engaging musician from the other side of the world meant a lot to me. We had great rapport from the start, and I know that you will enjoy this as much as I did. Visit Sarah at http://www.misslittle.com.au/fr_home.cfm and tell her that you heard her on my podcast!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-026-sarah-mc-callum-miss-little

Rob Hann is a photographer based in New York City. We talked about his upbringing on his family's farm in Salisbury, England. He told me about his move to London, and his work there on a fire brigade. He also made some cross country trips in America where he worked many jobs. He spent time as a fashion model and travelled the world. He then pursued a life behind the camera, and has made his living as a photographer ever since. He has been living quite an interesting life, and it was great to meet him and talk with him about it. He truly lives for his art, and I admire that. Rob's website  (http://www.robhann.com/) includes many examples of his work. I personally love how the bright blue sky contrasts the sometimes decaying images that act as his subjects. Rob has a way of taking decaying cars and abandoned service stations and turning them into objects of beauty. There is an amazing sense of texture in his work, and it really makes his pictures come alive. Rob can be found selling his prints in SoHo on Prince St between Greene and Wooster. I am looking forward to meeting him in person on my next trip to NYC. If you see him first, tell him Matt sent you! (Image courtesy of Farhad Parsa)

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

Episode 024 - Adam Hynes

I recently chatted with Adam Hynes. He is the guitarist and producer of the UK band The Narrows. We talked about their new single "Able Danger" as well as the bands previous recordings. Adam told me about how he joined the band. We also talked through his influences, and the Manchester music scene. The Narrows are building up quite a following since they got together, and I can see why. I prepared for our conversation by checking out everything I could find about them online. There are so many fantastic videos of their performances, and I told Adam how much I enjoyed the one where they are playing on a rooftop at dusk. These guys have such amazing harmonies, and that intimate setting really allowed their voices to be the focus. I also wanted to get his perspective on how 9/11 changed the world. We talked about that and the recent riots in the UK. I really enjoyed this conversation and getting to know Adam. The Narrows are a band to watch. I am looking forward to the full album. You can visit The Narrows at http://www.thenarrows.bandcamp.com (Image Courtesy of Anthony O'Hanlon)

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-024-adam-hynes-the-narrows

Episode 023 - Bernie Worrell

I had the rare opportunity to sit down with Bernie Worrell for lunch and some great conversation. The place was very crowded, but the background noise does not take away from the fact that I was talking to a living legend. I had been looking forward to this interview for weeks, and Bernie was everything I expected him to be. This man has spent close to 65 years in the music business and is still going strong. We touched on many topics. He shared some of his earliest memories as a child prodigy, college, and eventually taking all he learned to create a musical language that is all his own. We talked about his groundbreaking work in Parliament/Funkadelic, Talking Heads, and his solo work. He was very gracious and humble, and has so many stories and experiences. Please visit Bernie at his website http://www.bernieworrell.com/, and let me know what you think of the interview!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-023-bernie-worrell 

Rob Williamson is an Austin TX based drummer. I first met him back in July when he and the Eric Tessmer Band came to town. I had the opportunity to interview the whole band that day (Episode 008), and I was eager catch up with Rob to see how the rest of the tour went. We talked about life in the van, and how Rob likes to stop at local record stores and search for rare vinyl. As you know, that is one of my favorite topics. As soon as his most recent tour ended tour ended, Rob was back on a plane to Los Angeles for recording dates. In addition to playing with Eric, Rob is also the drummer for Street Light Suzie and Hyde Park Showdown. While in LA, he had the chance to meet and spend time with Gilby Clarke! Rob is a great guy and a devoted musician. Reach out to him after you listen, and let him know what you think! (Image courtesy of Clayton Hodges) You can learn more about Rob and all of his projects at the following sites:

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-022-rob-williamson

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-021-ryan-beattie-himalayan-bear

I have something fun and a little different for Episode 020. Steve Lemak is the owner of The Quillian located in Allentown PA. He has been my tattoo artist of choice for six years. He does amazing work and he is great to be around. These are important traits to consider when looking for someone to permanently alter your appearance, and Steve delivers. He and I clicked from our first meeting. Some of my appointments with him have lasted over 3 hours at a time, and he always keeps the conversation flowing. He has opinions on music, politics, history, books...the list goes on and on. I couldn't wait to have him as a guest. We met while he was doing a chest piece on Justin, who is one of his other long time customers. Justin was very cool, and I was thankful that he was willing to share his time with me. Steve and I cover a lot of ground during this interview. You will learn about his background, the importance that he places on a clean environment at the shop, and how he got his start in the business. Here is a glimpse into what a tattoo appointment sounds like in a world class shop.  *Pain not included   Please visit Steve online at http://www.thequillian.com/. Enjoy!!!!

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/webpage/episode-020-steve-lemak

I had an opportunity to talk with Chad Matheny as he was preparing to release his latest Emperor X album "Western Teleport". We talked about how happy he is to be working with Bar/None Records, and his preparation for his upcoming tour. Chad has spent a majority of his time as a working musician out on the road. He told me that this tour will take him within 50 miles of anyone that wants to see him, and I am no exception.  He will make a stop in my town at the end of October. We talked about his upbringing on the East Coast, and how he left his teaching job to pursue his life in music. Western Teleport is also being made available on vinyl. I told Chad how much I appreciate that. He is also planting Western Teleport Nodes in the cities that he will visit, and he gives his fans clues on where to find.  When they are found, they are registered online. This makes unreleased music available to everyone. This is just one example of how Chad makes the experience interactive for his fans. Please visit Chad at http://emperorx.tumblr.com/, and pick up a copy of Western Teleport.  Enjoy! (Image courtesy of Six12)

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

Please click on the link below to hear the entire interview:

Episode 017 - Mike Watt

http://artistconnectionpodcast.libsyn.com/episode-008-eric-tessmer-band