Welcome to Season 5! Listen in on Greg Koch's conversations with his guitar-hero friends. Every episode Greg unleashes his fiendish humor and unique perspective...
Jeff McErlain - Brooklyn Blues Rock, European Tours, and Guitar Lessons
Ever wondered how blues rock guitar maestro Jeff McErlain from Brooklyn, New York, balances the dual life of performing and teaching? Join us on a soulful journey as we chat with Jeff about his thriving career, his popular teaching platform jmguitarlessons.com, and his engaging YouTube content. You'll get a glimpse into the camaraderie and shared stories that highlight our musical lives' unique challenges and joys, from the practicalities of touring to the ever-present dilemma of choosing the perfect wardrobe for video appearances.Our conversation takes a deep dive into live music performance, where we debate the merits of traditional amplifiers versus digital equipment like the Fractal. Spontaneity and improvisation take center stage as we share personal anecdotes about balancing performance dynamics with venue restrictions. We also discuss the evolving dynamics of live gigs, the significance of sound management, and the challenges musicians face with volume control. From the benefits of in-ear monitors for hearing protection to the impact of audience feedback on our live performances, every detail is covered to give you an inside look at the life of a musician.As the episode wraps up, we explore the transition from the traditional music business to the digital age, emphasizing the importance of adapting to industry changes and maintaining a successful online presence. Jeff shares his journey of balancing a career in teaching and performing in the bustling landscape of New York City, touching on the misconceptions about the musician's lifestyle and the financial realities of touring. Reflect on the evolution of live music, the joy of rediscovering our passion for performing, and the deep bond we share with our instruments. This heartfelt discussion underscores the importance of innovation, dedication, and the irreplaceable energy of live performances.FishmanDedicated to helping musicians achieve the truest sound possible whenever they plug-in. Wildwood GuitarsOne of the world’s premier retailers of exceptional electric and acoustic guitars.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
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1:14:50
Allen Hinds
What if your musical idols became your mentors? In our latest episode, we sit down with the extraordinary guitarist Allen Hinds to uncover the stories behind his transformative journey from the Southern rock roots of Minnesota and Alabama to the creative hub of Los Angeles. Allen Hinds shares how iconic bands like the Allman Brothers and Cream shaped his musical identity, while also reflecting on the rich and diverse influences of the South. Listen as he recounts his humbling yet pivotal experiences at Berklee and his deep appreciation for the vibrant, artistic ecosystem of California’s Laurel Canyon.Allen opens up about the influential figures who guided him, such as Scott Henderson and Joe Pass, and the memorable interactions with legends like Robben Ford that profoundly impacted his career. He also narrates the unforgettable moments and serendipitous events that led him to teach at a prestigious music school and perform with renowned bands like Hiroshima and Bobby Caldwell. These stories offer invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating the unpredictable landscape of the music industry, from record deals and contractual hurdles to the joys of spontaneous collaborations.Don't miss Allen's reflections on his versatile career, from recent gigs and recording sessions to plans for future creative projects. Hear about his exciting performances, including a gig at a Burbank bistro with notable musicians and a successful tour in Japan. This episode wraps up with Allen expressing heartfelt gratitude and sharing a few light-hearted anecdotes, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and the artistic journey. Tune in for an episode brimming with wisdom, humor, and the resilient spirit of a true musician.FishmanDedicated to helping musicians achieve the truest sound possible whenever they plug-in. Wildwood GuitarsOne of the world’s premier retailers of exceptional electric and acoustic guitars.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
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1:05:44
Jeff Kollman
Ever wondered what it feels like to tour the world with some of the biggest names in music? Join us as we catch up with the incomparable Jeff Kollman, who brings his electrifying stories from the road and insights into his latest record. From working with Alan Parsons and the Bombastic Meatbats to his own band, Cosmosquad, Jeff's journey through the musical landscape is nothing short of extraordinary. Plus, we dive into his regular performances in Japan and his daughter's new adventures studying in Tokyo, highlighting how personal life and global travels intertwine.Remember the magic of vinyl records? We do too! This episode transports you back to the nostalgic realm of rich, immersive soundscapes and the unique joy of holding a tangible album cover. We explore the distinctive experience vinyl offers compared to the fragmented world of digital music, and share laughs about the evolution of record covers' secondary uses over the years. Whether you're a vinyl veteran or a curious newcomer, our conversation reveals why this format continues to captivate music lovers.But that's not all! Get ready for some hilarious and insightful tales from Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. We chat about the dynamics of putting on shows, the camaraderie among musicians, and the art of high-volume guitar. From Midwest tours to unforgettable gigs in Los Angeles, this episode brims with personal stories, gear discussions, and the sheer passion for live music that keeps us all coming back for more. Don't miss out on this jam-packed session of musical wisdom and industry anecdotes!FishmanDedicated to helping musicians achieve the truest sound possible whenever they plug-in. Wildwood GuitarsOne of the world’s premier retailers of exceptional electric and acoustic guitars.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
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1:02:29
Carl Verheyen
What if you could capture the essence of legendary live performances while maintaining your distinct sound? Join us in this episode of Chewing the Gristle as we sit down with the iconic Carl Verheyen. From memorable gigs across Italy, London, and the renowned NAMM show to Carl's innovative touring strategies, our conversation is full of captivating stories and practical insights.Gearheads, this one's for you! We explore the nitty-gritty of achieving that perfect guitar tone, with Carl sharing his expertise on amps and the magic of the Dumble amplifier. Hear the fascinating tale of how a devoted fan gifted him this prized piece of equipment and how he integrated it into his setup. We dissect the balance between replicating recorded solos and embracing spontaneous creativity on stage, providing a treasure trove of technical tips and innovative studio techniques. Whether you're a seasoned musician or an avid listener, you'll appreciate the depth of knowledge shared in this episode.But it's not all about the gear! Carl shares the joys and frustrations of teaching music, recounting personal anecdotes from his time at Village Recorders and a music school in Minneapolis. We discuss the profound insights gained from legendary musicians and the importance of understanding music theory. You'll also hear about Carl's musical influences, upcoming performances at the Ullapool Guitar Festival, and a special fundraiser with Elliot Easton from The Cars. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and eager to learn from one of the greats.FishmanDedicated to helping musicians achieve the truest sound possible whenever they plug-in. Wildwood GuitarsOne of the world’s premier retailers of exceptional electric and acoustic guitars.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
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1:05:53
Art Menezes
What happens when a young Brazilian guitarist, inspired by ACDC, stumbles upon blues legend John Lee Hooker through a stroke of radio interference? Join us as Art Menezes takes us through his incredible musical journey, from the vibrant streets of Fortaleza to the bustling blues hubs of Los Angeles and Chicago. Art recounts his self-taught beginnings, pivotal career moments, and the cultural backdrop that shaped his unique sound. It's a story of passion and perseverance, guaranteed to resonate with any music aficionado.FishmanDedicated to helping musicians achieve the truest sound possible whenever they plug-in. Wildwood GuitarsOne of the world’s premier retailers of exceptional electric and acoustic guitars.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Welcome to Season 5! Listen in on Greg Koch's conversations with his guitar-hero friends. Every episode Greg unleashes his fiendish humor and unique perspective as "one of the most famous unknown guitar players in the world", asking his often-famous musical friends the questions that we all want to know the answers to! Each episode is brought to you by Fishman and Wildwood Guitars
New Zealand