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Lia Braswell spent years behind the drum kit for artists including A Place to Bury Strangers, Le Butcherettes, Sextile and She Wants Revenge. On The Hang!, she talks about why making her solo album Rising meant finally creating something that was completely hers.

Her relationship with music started before she really understood what music was. As a five-year-old in Van Nuys, Lia remembers feeling the vibrations of her older brother playing music in the family garage. After he died from cancer, drums became part of how she processed the loss. By seven she was taking lessons, eventually moving through jazz, alternative rock and the Southern California DIY scene before touring internationally.

That career took Lia to Coachella and stages around the world, but there was another side to it. She tells Scott that after years of putting her own ideas on the back burner to play for other artists, she began feeling isolated and inauthentic. The pandemic stopped the touring cycle. Getting sober pushed things further. Instead of immediately going back on the road, she sat down and finished the record she had kept putting off.

That record became Rising, released by Waxwork Records.

Lia gets into several songs during the conversation. “Romantic Comedy” came from the fantasies and emotional rush that can follow an unexpected connection. “Entitlement” grew out of the uncertainty of 2020, a band breakup and her tendency to turn blame back on herself. “Carve My Name” is tied directly to her late brother and an old family video she didn't see until decades after it was recorded.

Then there’s “Gloomy Gazebo,” the song Lia calls her favorite on the album. Its roots go back to a lonely night on tour in Brighton when she found herself dancing alone by the water and confronted a surprisingly difficult idea: what would it actually mean to fall in love with herself? Lia also talks about femininity in music, being labeled a “female drummer,” jazz greats Elvin Jones and Max Roach, Ringo Starr, the musicians who shaped her playing, and why her dream studio collaboration would be Kate Bush.

We also get into her new single “If Not for the Chaos,” her work with Derek Coburn, life after getting sober, and the challenge of supporting independent musicians in a world where creating the music is only part of the job.

Watch the episode, tell us which part of Lia’s story connected with you, and subscribe to The Hang! for more conversations with artists about how the music actually gets made.

#LiaBraswell #rising #womeninmusic #femaledrummer #dreampop #musicinterview #TheHangPodcast

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CHAPTERS

00:00 Lia Braswell: Drummer, Songwriter and Solo Artist 02:30 Feeling Music Before Understanding It 05:12 Losing Her Brother and Discovering the Drums 12:26 Ringo, Jazz, Bowie and Lia’s Musical Influences 17:30 Women, Femininity and Inequality in Music 26:30 Why Lia Braswell Finally Made Music for Herself 33:54 The Sound and Emotion Behind Rising 37:48 Romantic Comedy, Entitlement and Carve My Name 48:06 Gloomy Gazebo and Learning to Love Herself 58:43 Why Lia Braswell Wants to Work With Kate Bush

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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In this episode of 'The Hang!', Tipa Tipo take us inside a musical and romantic partnership built across Peru, New York and beyond. Adele and Felipe explain how they learned to create together without letting perfectionism, disagreement or artistic insecurity derail the relationship.

This interview explores the making of Arquetipas, arriving October 2, 2026 via Bit Rosie, and the deeply personal story behind “No Me Fui” — a song Felipe wrote about getting lost inside a relationship without wanting to leave.

They also break down “My Country Se Come Vivo,” “Solo Mover Mi Cuerpo,” “Peter Pan” and “Boyfriend Island,” while exploring how Spanish, English, politics, movement, color and cultural identity shape their music.

What You’ll Learn from Tipa Tipo:

* How Tipa Tipo blends cumbia, salsa, disco and yacht rock * How Adele and Felipe navigate love and creative conflict * The real relationship story behind “No Me Fui”

Why vulnerability and imperfection became part of their process Here’s what you’ll learn from two independent musicians building a sound that connects North and South American musical worlds while staying fiercely DIY.

Subscribe to The Hang! from Almost Famous Magazine for more artist interviews, new music discoveries and conversations about the stories behind the songs.

#TipaTipo #Arquetipas #TropicalYachtRock #LatinMusic #TheHang #yachtrock 

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 – Meet Tipa Tipo & Arquetipas 02:37 – Adele Fournet’s Musical Beginnings 08:01 – Felipe Wurst’s Journey From Peru to Music 14:25 – Making Music as a Couple 21:49 – Perfectionism, Vulnerability & Letting Go 25:06 – Why Tipa Tipo Writes in English and Spanish 28:27 – My Country Se Come Vivo & Political Songwriting 32:22 – Solo Mover Mi Cuerpo: Moving Through the Chaos 35:24 – Peter Pan, Boyfriend Island & Modern Archetypes 39:38 – Grifo, Arquetipas, Touring & Dream Collaborations

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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Alex Band, founder and lead singer of The Calling, talks about his Parkinson’s diagnosis, the band’s 22-year wait for a new album, and why he refused to change The Calling’s sound just to follow whatever was popular.

The Calling return with Before The World Turns To Dust, their first full-length album since 2004’s Two. Alex tells me he had been trying to make another Calling record for roughly 15 years, but label problems, his solo career and a serious health crisis kept getting in the way. The new 15-track album was produced by John Fields and features Alex alongside Daniel Damico and Dom Liberati. It arrives digitally September 25, 2026.

We get into the new single “Dust” and why Alex sees it as the natural song for somebody who knows The Calling through “Wherever You Will Go.” He also talks about resisting years of pressure to make music that sounded like whatever happened to be current. Some of those songs, he says, simply didn’t sound like him.

There’s a lot more behind this record than a comeback.

Alex talks about being diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 30 and reaching a point where he says he couldn’t walk and spent roughly six months using a wheelchair. Years later, after treatment and significant improvement, new scans no longer showed the disease. Alex is careful about what that means: he says his doctors couldn’t tell him for certain whether the disease had gone dormant or whether the original diagnosis may instead have been Parkinson’s syndrome.

One of the hardest parts of the conversation is “The Fool That You Are.” Alex wrote the song for his younger brother while his brother was struggling with drug use. His brother later died from an overdose during COVID, and Alex says the lyrics now line up with what eventually happened in a way he never could have expected.

We also go back to “Wherever You Will Go,” which Alex wrote as a teenager. The song eventually spent 23 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult Pop Airplay chart and has passed one billion Spotify streams. Alex remembers nearly emptying his bank account when the label was ready to stop pushing the single.

Then we get into how much the music business has changed: streaming economics, buying physical music, touring, merchandise and what Alex thinks AI could mean for musicians over the next five years.

Watch the episode and tell me what part of Alex Band’s story surprised you most. Subscribe to The Hang! for more conversations with the people behind the music.

#AlexBand #thecalling #whereveryouwillgo #rockmusic #musicinterview #TheHang 

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CHAPTERS 00:00 Alex Band and The Calling Return 02:20 Alex Band's Musical Beginnings and Getting Signed at 15 04:22 Why The Calling Waited 22 Years for Another Album 06:31 Refusing to Change The Calling's Sound 09:47 The Meaning Behind Before The World Turns To Dust 14:18 “The Fool That You Are” and the Loss of Alex's Brother 17:36 The Story Behind “Wherever You Will Go” and Star Trek use 21:50 Alex Band on His Parkinson's Diagnosis and Recovery 32:17 What's Next for The Calling 33:59 Streaming, AI and the Future of the Music Business

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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Erik “Smelly” Sandin, longtime drummer of NOFX, sits down with The Hang! to talk about addiction, 34 years of sobriety, the end of NOFX’s live run, 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up, and why punk rock gave him a purpose.

Sandin’s relationship with music started long before NOFX. Growing up in Southern California, he remembers hearing Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple and Miles Davis around the house. By his teens, he just wanted to play. It didn’t really matter what instrument. Drums happened to be the open spot in a punk band, and he took it.

That eventually led to NOFX and a completely different life.

Erik talks about developing his approach behind the kit and why “less is more” became central to the way he plays. For him, drums aren’t there to fill every available space. They’re there to support the song. That leads into a great conversation about young musicians, social media, technical ability, AI-generated music and the difference between copying something well and actually creating something of your own.

The conversation gets much more personal when Sandin talks about heroin addiction. Fat Mike eventually told him that unless he went to rehab and got sober, he was out of NOFX. Erik describes that moment as realizing he was about to lose the last thing in his life that still meant something to him. He went into a 60-day program determined to give it everything he had. More than three decades later, he says one of the biggest changes wasn’t simply stopping drugs. It was acceptance.

Erik also looks back at his relationship with Fat Mike, the intervention NOFX later held for him, the band’s final shows and what it was like realizing just how far this group of teenage punks had traveled. NOFX concluded its farewell tour with three San Pedro shows in October 2024 after more than four decades together.

There’s also 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up, the 2026 James Buddy Day documentary about NOFX’s history and farewell run, and a conversation about why the Punk Rock Museum matters as a place where the punk community can actually see its history under one roof.

And before Erik has to run, we talk about something else changing punk: more women finding their place in the scene and more parents bringing their daughters to shows.

We didn’t get to everything. Pickle Stix, Erik’s custom surfboard company, is waiting for Part 2. Sandin turned his longtime surfboard-shaping hobby into a business during the pandemic.

What part of Erik’s story hit you the hardest? Drop it in the comments, and subscribe to The Hang! for more conversations with the people making music and the people who helped shape it.

https://linktr.ee/Nofx83 https://www.40yearsoffuckinup.com https://picklestixsurfboards.com/ https://www.thepunkrockmuseum.com

#ErikSandin #nofx #smelly #punkrock #40YearsOfFuckinUp #PunkRockMuseum #PunkInterview #drummer 

CHAPTERS: 00:30 Meet NOFX Drummer Erik “Smelly” Sandin 02:43 Growing Up on Zeppelin, Dylan and Deep Purple 04:10 How Erik Sandin Became a Drummer 07:34 Why “Less Is More” Behind the Drum Kit 11:29 Social Media, Musicians and AI-Generated Music 19:50 Fat Mike and the People Who Changed Erik’s Life 22:32 Heroin Addiction, Rehab and 34 Years of Sobriety 28:00 Looking Back Through 40 Years of Fuckin’ Up 32:21 Is NOFX Really Finished? 35:00 Punk Rock Museum, Community and Women in Punk

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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In this episode of 'The Hang!', Wonderland Rejects make their second appearance on The Hang! following a huge few months that included performing at Doll Fest and completing their sophomore album, Hello Rejects, arriving August 29.

This interview explores a band refusing to stay inside punk rock’s traditional boundaries.

Where Goodbye Wonderland embraced a raw, old-school punk sound, Hello Rejects goes deeper—mixing punk with blues, hip-hop, EDM, dance music, Tejano and grunge. The band even describes the evolving sound as “New Grunge.”

Alice, Dolly and Kitty break down the creative evolution behind the record, from more ambitious guitar work and unusual drum patterns to “Thank You Billie Holiday,” which recognizes the Black blues musicians whose influence runs through rock, punk, metal, rap and popular music.

They also discuss “El Rey Rojo,” bringing Spanish and Tejano influences into their music, and “Cardboard Me,” a slower and surprisingly complex song that pushed Kitty into new rhythmic territory.

But Hello Rejects goes beyond musical experimentation.

The band explains why their songwriting has shifted from primarily exploring their own experiences as queer and trans women toward confronting larger issues including racism, white supremacy, representation and supporting marginalized communities.

What You’ll Learn From The Band:

• Why Wonderland Rejects call their evolving sound “New Grunge” • How blues, rap, EDM and Tejano entered the band's punk sound • The stories behind “Thank You Billie Holiday,” “El Rey Rojo” and “Cardboard Me” • Why Artisan Octopus is trying to make live music more diverse and inclusive

The conversation also introduces Artisan Octopus, the band's new live-events and media collective built around a simple idea: different artists, communities, generations and musical styles can remain completely themselves while still working together.

As the band puts it: “Music is the greatest superpower that a human being has.”

Support your artists. Buy the record. Buy the merch. Go to the show. Support your local music community.

And subscribe to The Hang! from Almost Famous Magazine for more conversations with independent artists pushing music forward.

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#WonderlandRejects #HelloRejects #punk #punkrock #grunge #newgrunge #thehang #podcast 

Chapters:

Wonderland Rejects discuss the evolution of their sound from the punk roots of Goodbye Wonderland to their latest release, Hello Rejects.

This conversation features the band members breaking down the creative shift between their earlier work and their current musical direction. If you follow indie punk music, this discussion provides insight into how the group approached their songwriting process and artistic growth.

Beyond the interview, you get a look at the energy behind their live performance style. We examine the contrast between their raw, old-school punk influences and the new textures present in Hello Rejects. Fans of the band can hear firsthand what inspired this transition and how they view their evolution as musicians.

Catch more artist interviews and band spotlights by subscribing to the channel. Which track from Hello Rejects do you connect with the most? Let us know in the comments.

00:00 Wonderland Rejects Return 01:46 Life After Doll Fest 03:41 Hello Rejects & the Birth of “New Grunge” 07:25 “Thank You Billie Holiday” 08:28 Punk, Blues & the Roots of Modern Music 12:41 Punk Meets Tejano: “El Rey Rojo” 15:22 The Challenge Behind “Cardboard Me” 19:21 Artisan Octopus & the Power of Live Music 21:20 Why Representation in Music Matters 27:51 What’s Next for Wonderland Rejects

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In this episode of The Hang!, Elliot Lozier takes us from discovering The Offspring as a kid and teaching himself drums, guitar, bass and mandolin to the formation of Doom Scroll and the creation of Exhausted Dialogue.

This interview explores Doom Scroll’s unusual combination of punk aggression, folk instrumentation, metal influences and layered harmonies—as well as the almost unbelievable string of disasters that inspired “The Ravine.” Dead vans, flooded gear, shattered windows and an actual ravine rescue eventually became fuel for the music.

Lozier also explains the video-game concept behind Exhausted Dialogue, the surveillance themes of “Panopticon,” the endless grind behind “Sisyphus,” and the existential dread driving “Horsemen,” featuring Ian Cook.

What You’ll Learn:

* How Doom Scroll created its aggressive acoustic folk-punk sound * The insane true story behind “The Ravine” * Why video-game NPCs inspired Exhausted Dialogue * How Propagandhi, metal and punk shaped Elliot Lozier’s songwriting

Here’s what you’ll learn about the DIY philosophy behind Doom Scroll, the musicians who bring the songs alive onstage, and why Elliot dreams of one day recording with Rick Rubin.

🎸 Support independent music: stream or buy Exhausted Dialogue, see Doom Scroll live, grab merch, and subscribe to The Hang! for more artist interviews.

#DoomScroll #ElliotLozier #FolkPunk #PunkRock #punk 

https://www.doomscrollband.com/

https://doomscrollband.bandcamp.com/album/immoral-compass

https://www.instagram.com/doomscrollband

DOOM SCROLL TOUR DATES

August 20 — Sioux Falls, SD — The Den August 21 — Minneapolis, MN — 56 Brewing August 22 — Evansville, WI — EUM August 23 — Detroit, MI — Sanctuary August 24 — Dayton, OH — Cosmo Joe’s August 25 — Lafayette, IN — People’s Pub August 26 — Cleveland, OH — No Class August 27 — Millersville, PA — Phantom Power August 28 — Philadelphia, PA — Nikki Lopez August 29 — Brattleboro, VT — Stone Church August 30 — Brooklyn, NY — Gold Sounds September 1 — Richmond, VA — The Camel September 3 — Lynchburg, VA — Super Rad Arcade Bar September 4 — Chapel Hill, NC — Local 506 September 5 — Asheville, NC — Static Age September 6 — Charlotte, NC — The Milestone September 7 — Birmingham, AL — The Firehouse September 8 — New Orleans, LA — Okay Bar September 9 — Houston, TX — Trip Six September 10 — Austin, TX — Alienated Majesty Books September 11 — Denton, TX — Rubber Gloves* September 12 — Oklahoma City, OK — Grand Royale*

*Doom Scroll only; no Hans Gruber and the Die Hards.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Meet Elliot Lozier & Doom Scroll 03:14 The Offspring, Drums & Musical Beginnings 07:22 From We The Heathens to Doom Scroll 10:26 Becoming a Self-Taught Multi-Instrumentalist 13:29 Creating Doom Scroll’s Acoustic Punk Sound 17:14 The Meaning Behind Exhausted Dialogue 19:28 The Insane True Story Behind “The Ravine” 25:06 Panopticon, Sisyphus & Modern Life 34:29 “Horsemen,” Ian Cook & Doom Scroll’s Band Chemistry 43:05 Propagandhi, Rick Rubin & Elliot’s Influences

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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In this episode of The Hang!, David Myhr joins Scott Saldinger of Almost Famous Magazine to trace a musical journey that started at a piano in northern Sweden, exploded into Beatles obsession, led to The Merrymakers and eventually became a decades-long solo career built around melody, harmony and classic pop songwriting.

This interview explores David Myhr’s creative process, his collaboration with songwriter Bill DeMain, working with Jellyfish’s Andy Sturmer, finding success in Japan and the making of his third solo album, Everything Is All About You.

David also gets candid about today’s music industry — where releasing a great song is only the beginning. Artists now have to become their own promoters, content creators and community builders just to make sure people know their music exists.

What You’ll Learn from David:

• How The Beatles shaped his approach to songwriting • Why melody usually comes before lyrics in his creative process • What Andy Sturmer taught him about making records • Why promoting music may now be harder than creating it

Here’s what you’ll learn from an artist who never stopped chasing the feeling of hearing a melody come together: sometimes success isn't becoming a pop star — it's making something you’re proud of and discovering that someone halfway around the world connects with it.

🎧 Support independent music: buy the record, grab the vinyl or CD, see artists live, buy merch and share the music you love.

Subscribe to The Hang! from Almost Famous Magazine for more conversations with musicians, songwriters and artists.

#DavidMyhr #PowerPop #Songwriting #TheMerrymakers #TheHangPodcast #TheHang #podcast 

CHAPTERS:

00:00 David Myhr and Everything Is All About You 02:30 How The Beatles Changed Everything 05:07 Learning to Write the Perfect Pop Song 06:32 The Merrymakers and Going Solo 11:28 Everything Is All About You 15:05 Say Yes and David’s Songwriting Process 22:27 Andy Sturmer, Jellyfish and April’s Fool 25:15 Finding Success in Japan 33:16 Surviving the Modern Music Industry 38:28 Dream Collaborations and New Music

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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In this episode of 'The Hang!', The Dirty Turkeys — Sam Baker, Ty Tullar, Brad Hansen and Russ Hansen — hang with Scott Saldinger to unpack how childhood friendships, basement jams and wildly different musical influences became one seriously unpredictable band.

This interview explores why The Dirty Turkeys would rather build a genuine community one live show at a time than change their music to chase algorithms. They also get into their explosive live performances, the strange origin of their band name, the creation of “Under Your Spell,” and why staying human matters as AI-generated music and content become more common.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How The Dirty Turkeys created their “Acid Cow Punk” sound • Why “Under Your Spell” feels like a breakthrough for the band • How live shows and word of mouth built their fan community • Why authenticity matters more to them than instant viral fame

You’ll also hear about Cowboy Caravan, their creative process, dream collaborators, favorite artists, their move toward San Francisco and the next chapter with Soul Sugar.

If you love psychedelic rock, garage rock, surf rock, punk, outlaw country or bands that refuse to stay inside genre lines, meet The Dirty Turkeys.

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine for more independent artist interviews on The Hang!

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#TheDirtyTurkeys #AcidCowPunk #PsychedelicRock #IndependentMusic #thehang

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Meet The Dirty Turkeys & Acid Cow Punk 03:01 How The Dirty Turkeys Became a Band 03:52 Psychedelic, Punk & Country Influences 07:37 How Four Friends Write Songs Together 09:09 The Crazy Story Behind “The Dirty Turkeys” 13:01 Inside a Dirty Turkeys Live Show 17:36 Building Fans Without Going Viral 20:24 “Under Your Spell” & Finding Their Sound 22:20 Where to Start With The Dirty Turkeys 27:15 Family, Friendship & Musical Support 31:28 Soul Sugar, San Francisco & What’s Next 33:53 Being a Musician in the Content Era 37:16 AI, Human Art & Staying Authentic 41:44 Dream Producers & Collaborators 47:04 Supporting Independent Artists 48:04 What The Dirty Turkeys Listen To

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

In this episode of The Hang!, V Torres joins Scott Saldinger to share the story behind "Woman", her seven-song sophomore album arriving independently September 1, 2026.

Raised in Southern California on her parents’ vinyl collection, V absorbed everything from Joni Mitchell and James Taylor to Pink Floyd, outlaw country, funk, grunge, and psychedelic rock. She started playing guitar around age 11, wrote songs inspired by the Arizona desert, and eventually found her voice at college open mics in Los Angeles.

This interview explores how divorce, grief, healing, desire, and learning to love herself became connected chapters in Woman. V also talks about co-producing the record, rebuilding songs in the studio, honoring her late friend Kevin Sousa, pressing vinyl for the first time, and experiencing the thrill of connecting with a festival audience.

V tells you about:

* How she developed her indie-rock and Americana sound * Why "Woman" took nearly nine years to become an album * How grief influenced “Winter Solstice” and the recording process * Why Beck is her dream producer and collaborator

Here’s what you’ll learn about the perseverance, community, and personal investment required to create independent music.

Watch the full conversation, subscribe to The Hang!, and support V Torres by streaming her music, purchasing the album or vinyl, and seeing her perform live.

#VTorres #WomanAlbum #IndieRock #SingerSongwriter #podcast #musicinterview 

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In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger talks with Dorian Bailis about a musical journey shaped by opera, heavy metal, grunge, classical music, Americana and raw emotional storytelling.

After studying vocal performance and building a professional opera career, Dorian realized that writing his own songs had become his most honest form of expression. He opens up about leaving New York, starting over in Nashville and creating what he calls “modern folk n’ roll.”

This interview explores the stories behind “Polka Rose,” “Beyond the River” and “Not So Lonely Valentine’s Day,” including the personal loss that inspired Dorian to stop waiting and take a chance on a different life. He also discusses why songs are never completely finished, how live audiences continue the creative conversation and why albums still matter in a singles-driven music industry.

Dorian Shares:

* How he transitioned from opera to modern folk songwriting * Why Nashville gave him new opportunities to perform original music * The personal stories behind “Polka Rose” and “Beyond the River” * How authenticity helps music survive algorithms, trends and AI

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine, share the episode and support independent artists by streaming their music, attending shows and purchasing vinyl and merchandise.

#DorianBailis #nashville #opera #singersongwriter #interview #musicianinterview 

https://www.dorianbalis.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dorianbalis https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dorian-balis/1683393900 www.youtube.com/@UChXcae0PRDO3IOIahXV-FlA 

CHAPTERS: 00:00 Meet Dorian Balis 01:21 Music, Metal and Early Influences 10:55 Leaving New York for Nashville 14:14 The Story Behind “Polka Rose” 19:10 Loss, Regret and “Beyond the River” 22:41 Love and “Not So Lonely Valentine’s Day” 25:18 Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and Live Music 27:27 From Opera Singer to Songwriter 30:10 Building an EP in a Singles-Driven Industry 32:21 Can Good Music Beat Algorithms and AI? 39:09 Authenticity and Connecting With Listeners 41:28 Dorian’s Dream Collaboration With Bono 46:26 Kendrick Lamar, Deafheaven and Brian Wilson 49:40 What Comes Next for Dorian Balis

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger talks with Colm Gavin about music origins, creative flow, collaboration, mentors, and building a life around songs.

Colm Gavin is a Dublin-based singer-songwriter whose music blends contemporary folk, soft jazz, parlor-song charm, and classic storytelling. His work has reached listeners across Ireland, Europe, the UK, and North America, with songs praised by major artists and industry voices and released through BEO Records. Public profiles note that his early solo releases reached No. 1 on the Irish iTunes charts and that his music has been playlisted on radio stations in the U.S. and Canada.

This interview explores Colm’s childhood connection to music, the Orlando trip that opened his ears to Roy Orbison, The Carpenters, Springsteen, and classic radio, and how taking over his brother’s guitar lessons changed everything. Colm also talks about his teacher and mentor Peter Stanton, why practice and creativity should live in different rooms, and how collaboration turns a simple idea into something that suddenly exists.

Here’s what you’ll learn from Colm:

* How he found his way into music and songwriting * Why folk, jazz, theater, and parlor songs shape his sound * How collaboration helps songs grow beyond the writer * Why mentors, discipline, and flow state still matter

In this episode, Colm also discusses Live at Whelan’s, touring Ireland and the UK, writing for other artists, and why sincerity, preparation, and community remain at the heart of real music.

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine for more artist interviews, music stories, and conversations from The Hang!

#ColmGavin #irishfolkmusic #SongwriterInterview #irishmusician 

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Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to The Hang! 02:15 Meet Colm Gavin 03:00 How Music First Found Him 05:23 Taking Over His Brother’s Guitar Lessons 07:24 Early Influences: Dylan, Clapton & Cat Stevens 08:46 Defining his Sound 13:34 Where New Listeners Should Start 15:32 Songs, Editing & Creative Flow 17:46 Knowing When a Song Is Finished 20:29 Practice vs. Writing Time 23:05 Collaboration and Creative Alchemy 26:06 Why No Artist Succeeds Alone 28:45 Moments of Recognition and Self-Doubt 32:07 Remembering Mentor Peter Stanton 38:37 Touring, Ireland Shows & What’s Next 45:23 Dream Collaborations: Randy Newman & Elton John 48:40 Road Music, Asia & 80s Rock

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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Soft Spot’s Gianni Carpanzano joins The Hang! to talk 1-800 Soft Spot, Temporary Bliss, heavy guitars, heartbreak, grunge, psychedelia, and the Stamford, Connecticut alternative rock scene.

In this episode, Gianni opens up about Soft Spot’s new EP, the band’s evolution, and how sad songs became something bigger, heavier, and more fully realized.

This interview explores how Soft Spot grew from a three-piece into a stronger four-piece with Will Vellek joining Gianni Carpanzano, Dave Eisermann, and Marc Marenco. Gianni talks about writing the songs for 1-800 Soft Spot in the same emotional window, why the EP feels more cohesive than This Will Make You Cry, and how the band is learning to capture its massive live sound in the studio.

The conversation also gets into heartbreak, emotional songwriting, voice memos turning into full songs, working with Trevor Aukenook, playing Toad’s Place, pushing into New York City, landing gigs, and why building real relationships still matters in the music industry.

Gianni discusses:

* How Soft Spot created the sound of 1-800 Soft Spot * Why Gianni writes from heartbreak, reflection, and emotional release * How Will Vellek changed the band’s live and studio chemistry * What it takes to book better shows and build momentum as an indie band

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine for more artist interviews, music stories, and deep dives with the bands you need to know.

#softspot #alternativerock #musicinterview #podcast #interview 

Band Camp: https://softspottheband.bandcamp.com YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@UC5IymGottOizckxyxUgbbVA

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to The Hang! with Soft Spot 02:52 How Soft Spot Became a Four-Piece 06:12 Building the 1-800 Soft Spot EP 09:03 Heartbreak, Sad Songs, and Emotional Lyrics 12:03 How Gianni Turns Voice Memos Into Songs 14:58 The “Aha” Moment That Changed the Band 18:08 Booking Better Gigs and Building Real Connections 21:12 Hum, Catherine Wheel, Mastodon, and New Influences 24:00 Shows, Covers, Vinyl, and What’s Next

In this episode, Texas-born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Mary McGuinness joins Scott Saldinger on The Hang! to talk about the way music found her.

Mary didn’t grow up in a musical home, but she was always singing. Later, she discovered that music actually ran deep in her family, which helped make sense of the pull she had felt her whole life.

Her path has taken a lot of turns, from opera and Broadway to Americana, classic country, and Laurel Canyon-inspired songwriting. Through it all, Mary kept coming back to the music that felt the most honest to her.

We talk about her early life, her Korean and Irish-Scottish roots, the artists who shaped her like Johnny Cash, The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Jackson Browne, and Paul McCartney, and the stories behind songs like “Love Child,” “Cascadita,” “Bounded Beauty,” “Double Vision,” and “Springtime Thunder.”

What You’ll Learn from Mary:

• How she found her way into music • Why Americana and classic country feel like home to her • The story behind “Love Child” and her new songs • How creativity, mental health, healing, and staying true to yourself all connect

If you’re into Americana, singer-songwriters, Nashville artists, roots music, or just honest conversations about what it takes to keep going as an artist, this one is worth your time.

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine, like the video, drop a comment, and support Mary McGuinness by streaming her music, buying the records, grabbing the vinyl, and seeing her live.

#MaryMcGuinness #americanamusic #singersongwriter #musicinterview #musicpodcast 

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In this episode of The Hang!, Joomin Hwang talks about his journey from Seoul to New York City and eventually to Broadway.

Joomin grew up in South Korea and started breakdancing when he was 12. Years later, while performing in London, he saw Billy Elliot and something clicked. He saw dance, music, acting, emotion, and storytelling all happening at once, and it made him realize he wanted more than competition. He wanted a life on stage.

That decision eventually brought him to the U.S. at 29, without speaking English, to study vocal performance and chase a dream that probably sounded impossible to a lot of people.

We talk about his path to Broadway, including The Prom and the original Broadway cast of & Juliet, and what representation started to mean to him once Asian fans began thanking him at the stage door. Joomin also shares what it was like going through hundreds of auditions, dealing with rejection, staying grounded, and learning to think of dreams as something you do, not just something you reach.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

* How Billy Elliot changed the direction of Joomin’s life * Why representation on Broadway became personal for him * How he handled 500+ auditions and constant rejection * Why he created the Rule of Five Journal to help artists protect their mental health

If you’re into Broadway, musical theater, dance, acting, artist stories, or honest conversations about chasing something bigger than yourself, you’ll get a lot out of this one.

Subscribe to The Hang! for more conversations with artists from Almost Famous Magazine.

https://www.instagram.com/joominhwang https://www.joominhwang.com/ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7934697/

#JoominHwang #broadway #dancer #singer #seoul #musicaltheatre 

In this episode, Scott hangs with Hayley Cain, guitarist and frontwoman of Hayley and the Crushers, a Detroit-via-California band that mixes punk, surf rock, power pop, garage rock, and a whole lot of glitter.

Hayley talks about growing up on oldies radio, Elvis, The Beach Boys, the Go-Go’s, Ramones, Screeching Weasel, and the songs that made her want to pick up a guitar in the first place. She also gets into what it was like moving from California to Detroit, finding her way into a new music scene, and how Detroit helped bring out a different side of the band.

We also talk about “Jewel Case,” a song Hayley wrote almost 10 years ago. It started as a wild party anthem, but looking back now, especially after getting sober, the song hits differently. It’s funny, loud, catchy, and a little bit of a warning sign all at once.

In this conversation, Hayley gets into:

* How she found her voice through punk, oldies, and songwriting * Why Detroit changed the way Hayley and the Crushers see themselves * The real story behind “Jewel Case” * How the band wins over punk crowds, punk dads, and their cool daughters

This one is about growing up, getting honest, embracing the cringe, and making punk rock that’s loud, weird, catchy, and totally its own thing.

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine for more conversations with artists, bands, and the stories behind the music on The Hang!

https://www.hayleyandthecrushers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/hayleyandthecrushers https://www.facebook.com/hayleyandthecrushers  @hayleyandthecrushers  

#HayleyAndTheCrushers #punkrock #glitterbombs #musicinterview #detroitrockcity 

CHAPTERS 00:00 — Welcome to The Hang! 01:30 — Meet Hayley Cain of Hayley and the Crushers 02:55 — Oldies Radio, Elvis, Beach Boys & Finding Music 05:47 — Learning Guitar, Ramones Songs & Early Songwriting 10:37 — Cringe, Childhood Videos & Creative Freedom 11:50 — Moving From California to Detroit 15:07 — Earning a Place in the Detroit Music Scene 18:22 — The Story Behind “Jewel Case” 20:35 — Sobriety, Party Anthems & Taking Her Own Advice 25:47 — Glockenspiel, Whimsy & Punk Rock Texture 28:02 — Touring With Screeching Weasel 30:34 — Punk Dads, Cool Daughters & Winning the Room 44:15 — Hayley’s Dream Collaboration: John Doe of X 47:12 — Artists Hayley Is Listening To Now 51:19 — Supporting Hayley and the Crushers

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

https://www.almostfamousmagazine.com

Allen Dobb joins The Hang! to discuss The Afterlife Sessions, Canadian folk music, Americana roots songwriting, and the emotional power of live acoustic recording.

In this episode, Allen Dobb shares the stories behind Ballad of Willie Holmes, At the Bridge, Afterlife Studios, and a lifetime spent chasing honest songs. Canadian folk, country, Americana, and roots singer-songwriter Allen Dobb brings a rare kind of clarity to this conversation — the kind that comes from growing up on a farm, hearing music through one television channel, discovering Gordon Lightfoot-style fingerpicking, and eventually finding his own voice through story, place, memory, and lived experience.

This interview explores how The Afterlife Sessions became a full-circle record for Dobb: an 11-song, all-acoustic album recorded live at Vancouver’s Afterlife Studios, the modern incarnation of the legendary Mushroom Studios. With upright bass, fiddle, banjo, mandolin, acoustic guitar, and live vocals captured in the room, the album strips away production excess and puts the focus exactly where folk music lives — on the song.

Allen discusses:

• How his rural upbringing shaped his folk and roots songwriting • Why The Afterlife Sessions was recorded with minimal overdubs • The personal family story behind “Ballad of Willie Holmes” • How “At the Bridge” speaks to connection, common ground, and humanity

Watch the full conversation, subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine, and support independent artists by streaming, sharing, and buying Allen Dobb’s music.

https://www.allendobb.com https://www.instagram.com/allendobbmusic/ https://www.facebook.com/allendobbmusic https://allendobb.bandcamp.com/album/the-afterlife-sessions @AllenDobbOfficial

CHAPTERS: 00:00 — Welcome to The Hang! with Allen Dobb 03:36 — Growing Up on a Farm and Discovering Music 05:52 — Folk, Country, Reggae, Africa, and Americana Roots 10:52 — Learning Guitar and Gordon Lightfoot Fingerpicking 13:43 — Making The Afterlife Sessions Without Studio Tricks 15:15 — Recording at Vancouver’s Afterlife Studios 19:11 — The Story Behind “Ballad of Willie Holmes” 23:07 — Choosing the Songs That Still Feel True 29:12 — “At the Bridge” and Finding Common Ground 37:18 — Dream Collaboration, Favorite Artists, and Final Reflections

#AllenDobb #TheAfterlifeSessions #FolkMusic #AmericanaMusic #Canadian #Canadianmusician

In this episode, we hang with Leo Mendez, vocalist/guitarist of Integra Pink, about how music found him through family records, baseball, drums, guitar, and the creative partnership he shares with his brother Bardo Mendez. This interview explores the band’s evolution from COVID-era home recording experiments to a boundary-pushing force known for high-energy shows, PinkTv, and songs that refuse to stay in one lane.

Leo opens up about writing “CURBSTOMP,” the emotional and political weight behind “Spiderman Piñata,” the influence of The Clash, Ween, cumbia, disco, hip hop, punk, and Latin music, and why Integra Pink wants to represent Chicano punk without being trapped by expectations.

Leo lets you in on:

• How Integra Pink built its sound from punk, cumbia, disco, and Latin roots • The story behind “Spiderman Piñata” and its message on ICE, faith, hypocrisy, and community • Why Leo and Bardo’s brotherly songwriting trust drives the band forward • How creative freedom, family influence, and live shows shaped Integra Pink’s rise

Watch now, subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine, and support Integra Pink by streaming the music, buying merch, and catching them live.

#IntegraPink #punkrock #punk #cumbia #chicano #Podcast #interview #musicinterview #chicanoart 

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Chapters: 02:57 Meet Leo Mendez of Integra Pink 03:00 How Music Found Leo 04:44 From Baseball to Starting a Band 07:09 Writing “CURBSTOMP” 11:21 Songwriting With His Brother Bardo 14:22 The Story Behind “1999” 16:30 Building Integra Pink’s Genre-Bending Sound 19:43 The Meaning Behind “Spiderman Piñata” 48:38 The Advice That Changed Leo’s Music

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

https://www.almostfamousmagazine.com

Shanna In A Dress interview, folk-pop songwriting, finding your musical voice, storytelling songs, fearless creativity, and indie artist authenticity — this episode of The Hang! dives deep into the creative world of one of folk-pop’s most original voices.

In this episode, Shanna In A Dress joins Almost Famous Magazine for a funny, honest, and inspiring conversation about songwriting, vulnerability, bike touring, creative identity, audience connection, and how musicians can stop chasing trends and start sounding like themselves.

Shanna In A Dress is a St. Louis-based folk-pop singer-songwriter known for blending clever comedy, emotional truth, and sharp observational storytelling into songs that make audiences laugh, cry, and feel completely seen. This interview explores how a poetry-loving kid, French horn player, and UVA student found her way into guitar, songwriting, and a life built around fearless creative choices.

Host Scott Saldinger talks with Shanna about the surprise college show that changed everything, why Ingrid Michaelson helped unlock her vision for live performance, and how songs like “Shitshow,” “Mmm That’s Hot,” and “Seagull” turn everyday moments into unforgettable stories.

Here’s what you’ll learn: • How Shanna In A Dress found her unique musical voice • Why storytelling is the key to powerful songwriting • How fearlessness can help artists take bigger creative risks • Why authenticity matters more than chasing the algorithm

This interview also dives into Shanna’s cross-country bicycle tour, her thoughts on time, manifestation, gratitude, online criticism, songwriting workshops, audience engagement, and the dream collaboration she wants to manifest with Taylor Swift.

For musicians, songwriters, indie artists, folk-pop fans, and anyone asking how to find your sound as an artist, this episode is a reminder that originality does not come from fitting in. It comes from paying attention, telling the truth, taking risks, and letting your weirdness become the doorway to connection.

Subscribe to The Hang! for more artist interviews, music stories, songwriting conversations, indie music discovery, and deep dives with the musicians shaping today’s independent music scene.

https://www.shannainadress.com/

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In this episode, Fernando Perdomo joins The Hang! for a sprawling, record-store-rabbit-hole conversation about guitar, songwriting, production, prog rock, power pop, session work, and the obsession that turns a life in music into a full-time creative mission.

Fernando’s story starts in Miami, where a house filled with music, a classically trained Cuban mother, The Beatles, thrift-store records, and early guitar lessons helped shape a player who would eventually move between genres with rare fluency. From his first major break playing on Latin pop sessions to becoming an LA-based musician and producer, Fernando has built a career on curiosity, taste, and the ability to serve the song first.

This interview explores his work on Echo in the Canyon, his collaborations and connections with artists tied to Brian Wilson, Beck, Fiona Apple, Norah Jones, Regina Spektor, Cat Power, Jakob Dylan, Todd Rundgren, Dave Kerzner, and Marshall Crenshaw, plus the unforgettable story of stepping onstage with Yes to play “Roundabout” at the Alan White tribute.

Fernando also opens up about his prolific solo catalog, including his Waves and Clouds album-per-month projects, his progressive rock influences, his love of Peter Banks, Steve Howe, Andy Latimer, Adrian Belew, Todd Rundgren, and the thrill of discovering music that still sounds dangerous, human, and alive.

For fans of guitar-driven storytelling, progressive rock, power pop, music production, deep-cut record culture, and artist interviews that go far beyond the usual talking points, this episode is a front-row seat inside Fernando Perdomo’s restless musical universe.

https://fernandoperdomo.bandcamp.com/  @fernandoperdomomusic   https://www.instagram.com/fernandoperdomoguitar https://www.facebook.com/Fernandoperdomomusic/

Chapters: 01:19 Introducing Fernando Perdomo 03:05 Beatles, family, and the first musical spark 06:40 Breaking into sessions and Latin pop success 08:00 Moving to LA and Echo in the Canyon 10:10 Touring with Marshall Crenshaw 14:21 Playing “Roundabout” with Yes 20:12 Prog guitar heroes and musical influences 26:37 Dave Kerzner, guitar fire, and creative chemistry 37:06 Releasing an album a month: Waves, Clouds, and beyond

#fernandoperdomo #guitarist #musicinterview #progrock #musician 

In this episode of The Hang! brought to you by Almost Famous Magazine, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Bruce Wojick, the singer, guitarist, songwriter, and roots rock artist behind Bruce Wojcik and The Struggle, for a deep conversation about music, songwriting, touring, survival, and the making of his latest album, The Hard Way.

Bruce brings a hard-edged roots rock sound shaped by classic rock, blues rock, Americana, and the kind of road-tested songwriting built for fans of The Black Crowes, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Rolling Stones, Blackstone Cherry, Kiss, Paul McCartney, and real guitar-driven rock and roll.

This interview explores Bruce’s musical journey from growing up in Niagara Falls, New York, discovering Kiss Alive, learning guitar, and writing his first songs, to playing in the 1990s band God’s Children, performing at CBGB's, showcasing for labels, and building a career through persistence.

Bruce also shares the story of Clear, the Buffalo-area rock band signed by Robbie Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls through Good Charamel Records, along with memories of playing The Viper Room, The Whisky, and major shows with legendary artists.

The conversation goes deep into Bruce’s solo career, Bruce Wojick and The Struggle, and the songs behind The Hard Way, including Louder Than Concord, Watching the Sky Turn Blue, The Hard Way, More Time, Yesterday Is Gone, Worried Sick, and Cheap Wine.

https://www.brucewojick.com

https://www.instagram.com/brucewojick

Jessica Perry and Jim Finley, the duo known as Ghostbells, join Scott Saldinger on The Hang! from Almost Famous Magazine for a deep dive into the music, imagery, and creative force behind one of the most compelling new names in darkwave and EBM.

In this episode, Jessica and Jim discuss how Ghostbells formed, why their collaboration clicked so quickly, and how their shared instincts helped shape a sound that blends icy synths, pulsing bass, haunting vocal melodies, new wave influence, industrial textures, and dark electronic atmosphere. This interview explores the making of their sonic identity, their debut EP Catacouture, and the breakout single “Darkness Saves.”

The conversation dives into Jessica’s lifelong relationship with music, from piano and synths to guitar, bass, trumpet, and French horn, along with Jim’s background in bands, production, recording, and sound design. Together, they reveal how Ghostbells create songs that feel cinematic, emotional, danceable, and visually charged.

In this episode:

• How Ghostbells turned darkwave, EBM, and new wave influences into their own gothic electronic sound • The story behind “Darkness Saves,” including its succubus-in-a-graveyard imagery and haunting lyrical world • Why Jessica Perry and Jim Finley approach Ghostbells as both art and business, with videos, visuals, and strategy behind every song • How Ghostbells connect with fans live, from immersive light shows to a fan getting the first Ghostbells tattoo

This episode is for fans of darkwave, gothic electronic music, industrial music, EBM, synth-driven alternative music, Nine Inch Nails, Crystal Castles, Health, Sidewalks and Skeletons, and artists who turn darkness into something magnetic.

Watch the full Ghostbells interview, like the episode, comment with your favorite moment, and subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine / The Hang! for more conversations with artists shaping the future of music.

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#Ghostbells #darkwave #ebm #musicians #interview #podcast 

Chapters: 00:00 — Welcome to The Hang! with Ghostbells 02:58 — Jessica Perry’s Musical Roots and Early Instruments 05:25 — How Jessica Perry and Jim Finley Formed Ghostbells 06:02 — Why Their Creative Collaboration Worked Instantly 09:26 — What Drew Ghostbells Into Darkwave and EBM 12:01 — Why “Darkness Saves” Is the Perfect First Listen 13:53 — The Graveyard Story Behind “Darkness Saves” 16:12 — Cinematic Lyrics, Visual Storytelling, and Dark Imagery 26:15 — The Business Reality Behind Making Music Today 31:18 — Ghostbells Live Shows, Fan Connection, and the First Tattoo

Black Gold Sun is back on The Hang! and this time, they’re arriving at the exact moment every music fan hopes to discover a band: right before everything gets louder, bolder, and impossible to ignore.

After lighting up Dollfest with a raw, eclectic, high-energy performance, the all-female Black punk band returns to talk about their upcoming self-titled EP, the stories behind the songs, and the creative chemistry that makes Anita, Veronica, and Q such a powerful live force.

In this episode, Black Gold Sun walks through the EP track by track, starting with “Feel The Up,” which Anita describes as a “loving punch in the face” designed to wake people up and pull them into the band’s world from the very first beat. From there, they dig into the groove, trust, timing, and collaboration behind “Trust and Believe,” the modern-day struggle reflected in “Fight,” and the larger message running through the project: every day brings its battles, but you keep moving, keep believing, and keep showing up.

The band opens up about their live energy, why their shows are less about performing at an audience and more about bringing everyone into the party, how their music shifts between clean, gritty, groovy, and intense depending on the moment, and why “the song always wins.”

If you’re looking for fresh punk music with heart, urgency, resistance, groove, and a live experience that pulls you in, Black Gold Sun needs to be on your radar!

Support Black Gold Sun. Buy the EP. Buy the merch. Go to the shows. Tell your friends.

👉 Follow Black Gold Sun

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In this episode of The Hang!, Latchkey Kids open up about turning New Brunswick basement-show energy into one of the most emotionally charged emo punk albums of 2026.

Host Scott Saldinger sits down with Hanny Ramadan, Joey Grzybowski, and Cyle Morris of Latchkey Kids for a raw, funny, and deeply human conversation about music, friendship, loss, community, and the making of Year Of Summers. 

This interview explores how a New Jersey punk trio built its sound from basement shows, long drives, heartbreak, Greek tragedy, and the kind of resilience that turns pain into an anthem.

The band talks about growing up around music, finding belonging in the New Brunswick DIY scene, writing songs that feel like campfire stories, and how grief, identity, family, love, and alienation shape their catalog. From “Athena” to “Morning Anthem” to “Saturn,” Latchkey Kids explain what makes a song connect—and why emo punk still matters when it tells the truth.

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine for more artist interviews, punk stories, emo bands, indie music discovery, and conversations that go beyond the songs.

#latchkeykids #punk #emo #interview #musicpodcast 

Mad Tab has been grinding through the Orange County and Huntington Beach punk underground since 2006 — surviving lineup changes, DIY shows, reggae and rocksteady detours, long silences, and the kind of chaos most bands never make it through. Now, with the release of “Awake” and the upcoming full-length album "Alas! The Bomb Voyage…", Mad Tab is stepping into a new era with the backing of Norwood Fisher, founding member and bassist of the legendary genre-breaking band Fishbone.

Dave and Graham talk about growing up together, discovering punk, ska, reggae, and hardcore, and turning years of friendship into a creative partnership built on lyrics, riffs, chaos, and instinct. Graham shares how influences like Fishbone, The Specials, Madness, Sublime, NOFX, Strung Out, and classic ska helped shape his playing, while Dave explains how keyboards, synths, organ, and cinematic ideas became part of Mad Tab’s punk identity.

Norwood explains why Mad Tab became the first artist he chose to back through InnaNuttshell Reekordingz, calling the band a complete package because of their songwriting, production, and fully realized creative vision.

The conversation also dives into the band’s DIY videos, their love of film, the possibility of Norwood appearing in a future Mad Tab video, dream collaborations, touring plans, and why supporting independent music matters now more than ever.

This is more than a band interview. It is the story of a SoCal punk band that went through everything, kept writing, built its own machine, and finally sounds fully awake.

👉 Subscribe to The Hang! for more artist interviews, music stories, punk rock conversations, and behind-the-scenes episodes with the people keeping independent music alive.

#MadTab #NorwoodFisher #punk #skamusic #skapunk

Jesus Christ Taxi Driver breaks down their sound, their story, and why they’re redefining what punk can be.

In this episode, Scott Saldinger sits down with Ian, Colin, and Miles of Jesus Christ Taxi Driver for a raw, hilarious, and completely unfiltered conversation. From the accidental origin of their band name to the creation of their latest album Taxi the Rich, this interview explores how chaos, collaboration, and zero rules shaped their identity.

Here’s what makes this episode hit: this band doesn’t just play music—they experiment, collide genres, and build songs in real time. Punk, jazz, country, disco—it’s all in play. They call it “lounge punk”… and honestly, it fits. This interview explores songwriting without limits, building a band with shared creative ownership, and turning weird ideas into something fans can’t ignore.

What You’ll Learn:

• The real story behind the name! • How Taxi the Rich was created from pure experimentation • Why “lounge punk” might be the next evolution of punk rock • The best songs to start with if you’re new to the band

If you’re into garage rock, indie bands, punk energy, or discovering artists before they blow up—this is your episode.

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Leah Nawy breaks down Quicksand, indie pop songwriting, music production, and navigating the modern music industry as an independent artist in New York City.

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Leah Nawy,  a Taiwanese American indie pop artist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist — for a powerful conversation on creativity, identity, and building a sound that blends indie rock, folk, soul, and electronic textures.

This interview explores Leah Nawy’s journey from the New Jersey live music scene to the New York City indie music world, and the emotional story behind her single “Quicksand.” Written as a conversation between her present self and her inner child, the song captures anxiety, growth, and self-reflection in a way that resonates deeply with listeners.

In this episode, Leah also shares how she taught herself music without perfect pitch, developed her own songwriting system, and evolved into a self-producing artist experimenting with synths, guitar layers, and vocal production.

What you’ll learn about Leah:

• How Leah Nawy first connected with music through piano, performance, and family • The story behind “Quicksand” and its inner-child perspective • Why production, texture, synth bass, guitar, and vocal stacks shape her sound • How independent artists navigate creativity, social media, singles, EPs, and albums

Leah also discusses her dream collaboration with Brittany Howard, the influence of mentors from Lakehouse Music Academy, and what comes next as she prepares new singles, an EP, and eventually a full album.

Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine for more artist interviews, music journalism, and deep conversations on The Hang!

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In this episode of The Hang!, EZ Band breaks down their viral success, touring growth, and genre-defying sound.

In this episode, host Scott Saldinger sits down with EZ Band—Jaime, Aldo, Johnny, and Nate—to uncover how they transformed viral TikTok covers into a national touring phenomenon. This interview explores their unique ability to fuse Norteño, rock, hip-hop, and pop into a sound that connects with diverse audiences across the U.S.

From early experimentation to selling out shows and performing for massive crowds, EZ Band shares the strategy, creativity, and hustle behind their rise. Here’s what you’ll learn about building a viral music brand, mastering live performance, and standing out in today’s music industry.

Whether you're a music fan, artist, or creator, this episode delivers real insight into how modern bands break through using social media, originality, and performance.

👉 Subscribe for more music interviews, artist stories, and behind-the-scenes industry insights 👉 Follow EZ Band and catch them live on tour

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In this episode of The Hang! from Almost Famous Magazine, Scott Saldinger sits down with Khurram, a Pakistani American rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer whose music blends hip-hop, melodic rap, and South Asian influence into something deeply personal.

Khurram traces his journey back to a family rooted in Pakistani music, growing up between cultural tradition and the realities of life in America. He talks about how basketball, freestyle sessions, and later the Los Angeles dance community helped shape his creative path, eventually pushing him from movement into music. What comes through in this conversation is an artist who is not chasing trends. He is building a sound that reflects where he comes from, what he believes, and how he wants to connect with people.

The conversation also dives into Khurram’s socially conscious side, including the story behind his song inspired by Palestinian journalist Motaz Azaiza and why he believes hip-hop should still report on what is happening in the world. He shares the songs new listeners should start with, why timeless music matters more than hype, and how independence has helped him protect his creative identity.

If you care about conscious rap, cultural fusion, independent artists, and music with something real to say, this is a powerful episode to watch.

#Khurram #ConsciousRap #DesiHipHop #pakistaniamerican #independenthiphopartist 

Chapters: 0:00 Intro to The Hang! and guest Khurram 2:08 Meeting Khurram + shared values and connection 4:21 Pakistani roots and early musical influences 6:29 Basketball, freestyle rap, and hip-hop beginnings 9:46 LA move, dance community, and creative awakening 12:15 Transition into music and cultural fusion sound 14:45 The story behind “River to the Sea” 19:49 Songs to start with: “Love Torture,” “World of Hate,” Elevate 26:16 Creating timeless music vs chasing trends 33:43 Independence, consistency, and Spotify growth strategy 34:53 Dream collaboration: why Macklemore 39:32 Artists Khurram is listening to right now 42:41 Final thoughts, supporting artists, and closing message

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

https://www.almostfamousmagazine.com

Vancouver pop-punk band Chief State joins Scott Saldinger on The Hang! for a candid conversation about friendship, creativity, and the emotional fuel behind their latest album Keep Your Friends Closer.

The band shares the story behind their newest record and how its themes of loyalty, betrayal, and reconnection shaped the songwriting process. Rather than writing individually, the group spent months collaborating together in a room, building songs organically and creating a space where every idea could be explored freely.

In this episode, the band dives into their individual musical origins—from discovering punk through Green Day and MTV to learning instruments by ear and forming bands before they even knew how to play. That early passion eventually led to the formation of Chief State after a Craigslist post connected founding members Fraser and Nik in Vancouver.

They also reflect on the importance of community in music, the impact friends and mentors have had on their careers, and the reality of being an independent band navigating touring costs and the evolving music industry. Along the way, each member highlights a song from their catalog that best represents the band—from fan favorites like “Team Wiped,” “No Breaks,” and “Metaphors” to the title track “Keep Your Friends Closer.”

If you love modern pop-punk, honest songwriting, and stories from the road, this episode offers an inside look at the friendships and experiences that keep Chief State moving forward.

Listen now and discover why Chief State is one of the most exciting bands emerging from Vancouver’s punk scene.

What does it take to stay authentic in punk for decades?

In this episode of The Hang, Scott Saldinger sits down with Kevin Wilcox, the unmistakable voice behind Las Vegas punk band Suburban Resistance. From growing up in Rochester surrounded by classic rock to fronting a band that blends hardcore grit with melodic punk energy, Kevin shares the journey that shaped his sound and identity.

Kevin opens up about learning Ramones songs as a kid, why he chose vocals over guitar, and how years of live performance—not social media—built his confidence and style. He dives into the evolution of Suburban Resistance, from garage jams and cover songs to a fully realized original sound that pulls from punk, hardcore, and beyond.

The conversation also explores the modern music landscape, the importance of community in the Las Vegas punk scene, and why staying open to new influences has helped the band grow. Kevin reflects on lessons learned from fellow musicians, the reality of putting in the work, and what keeps him creating after decades in the underground.

If you care about real music, real stories, and the culture that keeps punk alive—this one hits.

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Nordista Freeze interview, indie pop artist tour, DIY musician story—this episode dives deep into the relentless grind of one of indie music’s most driven performers. In this episode of The Hang!, Scott Saldinger sits down with Nordista Freeze to explore what it really takes to build a music career from the ground up.

This interview explores Nordista’s journey from a cappella looping experiments to playing 500+ live shows, building community-driven events like Space Prom, and attempting an ambitious 50 shows in 50 states tour—all fueled by DIY hustle and passion.

From Nashville roots to nationwide ambitions, Nordista shares how independent artists survive, create, and connect in today’s music landscape.

🎧 What You’ll Learn: How Nordista Freeze built a career through relentless touring The reality of DIY music and independent artistry Why physical music (vinyl) still matters in a streaming world How to stay creative without burning out

If you care about indie music, artist hustle, or the future of touring—this episode delivers raw insight and inspiration.

👉 Subscribe for more artist interviews on The Hang! 👉 Support Nordista Freeze—links below

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#NordistaFreeze #TheHang #IndieMusic #MusicInterview #diyartist 

Chapters: 00:00 Intro – Meet Nordista Freeze 01:15 Nordista Freeze: Indie Pop Road Warrior 02:35 Origin Story – How Music Found Him 04:16 Early DIY Days & First Shows 05:25 Why Indie Pop & Psych Pop? 06:31 Musical Influences (Beach Boys → Zappa) 08:15 50 Shows in 50 States – The Plan 10:17 Breaking Records & Tour Strategy 10:32 Vinyl Comeback & Free Album Strategy 12:34 Physical vs Streaming Music Debate 15:21 Songs You Should Hear First 18:34 When Is a Song “Done”? 21:53 Letting Go of Music Creatively 24:06 Staying Creative as an Artist 26:27 Touring vs Creating – The Struggle 28:40 The Story Behind Space Prom 31:42 Building Community Through Music 32:19 Influences & Life on the Road 35:10 Dream Collaboration Artists 38:09 Artists He’s Listening To Now 39:30 Tour Logistics & Survival Plan 😅 40:46 Final Thoughts + Where to Follow

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Oakland-based comedian Jenny Roberts to explore the raw, unfiltered journey behind her fearless approach to stand-up comedy.

Jenny shares how her creative roots in singing, debate, and visual arts ultimately led her to the stage—where instant feedback and vulnerability became her greatest teachers. From bombing in front of crowds to headlining iconic venues like Cobb’s Comedy Club and Yoshi’s, her rise is powered by bold self-belief and unapologetic authenticity.

The conversation dives deep into how personal experiences shape her material, including turning grief, motherhood, and societal pressures into powerful, thought-provoking comedy. Jenny opens up about using humor as a tool for healing and why tackling difficult topics—like miscarriage and identity—matters more than ever.

Scott and Jenny also explore the realities of modern content creation, dealing with online criticism, and the freedom that comes from letting go of fear and external validation. With sharp wit and no shortage of honesty, Jenny reveals what it really takes to find your voice and own it.

If you’re curious about the intersection of comedy, creativity, and personal truth, this episode delivers insight, laughter, and perspective you won’t forget.

#StandUpComedy #comedypodcast #WomenInComedy #comedylife #FearlessComedy

00:00 – Intro to comedian Jenny Roberts 01:45 – Early creative roots: singing, debate & performance 04:30 – Why comedy? Facing rejection head-on 07:00 – Finding her comedic voice and style 09:30 – Using pain and personal experience in comedy 13:30 – Humor, healing & difficult conversations 18:30 – Fear, freedom & not caring what people think 23:00 – Comedy vs real life: relationships & identity 28:45 – Breakthrough moment: Yoshi’s headlining story 32:00 – Handling trolls, content & online criticism 45:00 – Dream collaboration & closing thoughts

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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Craig Fort, frontman of Lightning Stills, joins The Hang! to share a raw and deeply personal journey from the chaos of punk rock to the honesty of outlaw country. What began as a DIY punk upbringing—house shows, skate videos, and underground scenes—evolved into something far more vulnerable and reflective after life-changing moments, including sobriety and fatherhood.

In this conversation, Craig breaks down how his early influences—from classic rock to hardcore—shaped his identity as an artist, and how reconnecting with country music became both a creative outlet and a form of healing. Lightning Stills wasn’t originally meant to be a full band, but through collaboration and community, it transformed into something bigger than a solo project.

Craig opens up about the emotional weight behind songs like “My Mama Wants a Love Song” and “Closed Down the Bar,” revealing how personal experiences, humor, and pain all collide in his songwriting. He also reflects on the realities of being an independent musician today—balancing family, work, and creative ambition in a world where visibility often comes at a cost.

This episode is about more than music. It’s about resilience, reinvention, and finding your voice when it matters most.

#CraigFort #LightningStills #outlawcountry #musicinterview 

Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to The Hang! 01:05 Craig Fort’s Musical Origin Story 05:40 DIY Punk Scene & Omaha House Shows 07:20 From Hardcore Punk to Outlaw Country 12:20 Learning Vulnerability as a Frontman 14:50 Inside the Lightning Stills Album 18:00 Song Breakdown: “My Mama Wants a Love Song” 19:20 Sobriety, Fatherhood & Life Turning Point 23:10 The Reality of Being an Indie Musician Today 30:30 Mental Health, Creativity & Staying Grounded 37:50 Dream Collaboration: Todd Rundgren 41:30 Artists Craig Is Listening To Right Now 43:50 Punk vs Country: Why Not Both?

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On this episode of The Hang!, Scott Saldinger sits down with Emily Petersmark, lead singer and co-founder of The Crane Wives, to explore the band’s evolution from local Grand Rapids beginnings to becoming a globally recognized indie rock force.

Emily shares how her early musical foundation—learning piano by ear through the Suzuki Method—shaped her songwriting instincts and creative voice. She reflects on the band’s humble origins, including performing in a Chinese restaurant while working service jobs, and how those early struggles fueled both their sound and storytelling.

The conversation dives into the band’s transition from a folk duo into a full-band indie rock act, highlighting how key members expanded their sonic identity and opened new opportunities. Emily also discusses the realities of being a modern independent artist—balancing creativity with content demands—and why staying authentic matters more than chasing algorithms. From viral growth during the pandemic to building a fiercely loyal fanbase, this episode reveals how The Crane Wives built a sustainable career on passion, collaboration, and community.

If you’re an indie music fan, songwriter, or creative navigating today’s landscape, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

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Las Vegas pop-punk trio Crimson Riot joins host Scott Saldinger on The Hang! to talk about their musical roots, the evolution of their band, and why the Las Vegas punk scene is one of the most exciting underground communities in music right now.

Fronted by powerhouse vocalist and guitarist Roxy Gunn, alongside bassist Chris Reject and drummer Ryan J, the band shares the story of how Crimson Riot grew from the early Roxy Gunn Project into a high-energy trio built on DIY spirit, collaboration, and community. The conversation explores their songwriting process, the emotional inspiration behind songs like “Hurt” and “Gatekeeper,” and how the band crafts anthemic pop-punk built for both the stage and the underground scene.

Roxy also reflects on the growing wave of femme-fronted punk bands, discussing how the genre is becoming more inclusive and supportive of diverse voices. The band talks about the power of local scenes, why supporting independent artists matters more than ever, and how Las Vegas venues and musicians are creating a thriving ecosystem outside the Strip. The episode also dives into legendary Punk Rock Bowling memories, their upcoming community-driven event Riot on Fremont, and the artists who inspire them today.

If you love pop-punk, underground music scenes, DIY touring stories, and honest conversations about making music, this episode offers a candid look at how a band builds something meaningful from the ground up.

Listen, discover new music, and support independent artists.

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#CrimsonRiot #lasvegasmusic #punkscene #diymusic #thehangpodcast

In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Toronto-based electro-rock duo ROMES—brothers Jacob and Nicolas Bitove—to unpack how they built a global audience completely on their own terms.

From recording in a basement studio to selling out their first-ever European headline tour, ROMES share how experimentation, risk-taking, and raw creativity fueled their debut album Sonic Trash. Without a traditional label push, the duo leaned into unconventional sound design, blending punk energy with electronic textures to create something entirely their own.

The conversation dives into their early influences, growing up surrounded by vinyl and mixtapes, and how trial-and-error experimentation led to their signature “punktronic” sound. They also reveal how posting studio experiments online sparked viral momentum—turning casual viewers into ticket-buying fans.

ROMES open up about collaborating on the Call of Duty: Black Ops soundtrack, the creative freedom of staying independent, and why making music for themselves—not algorithms—changed everything.

If you’re into genre-bending artists, DIY success stories, or the future of indie music, this episode is a must-watch.

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In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Nashville-based indie rock artist Quinn O’Donnell for a thoughtful and deeply human conversation about music, creativity, and emotional honesty. Born into a musical family in Nashville, Quinn shares how growing up around touring musicians shaped not only her artistic instincts but also her understanding of collaboration, community, and resilience within the music industry.

Quinn reflects on her earliest experiences performing—starting with DIY living-room shows as a teenager—and how those formative moments helped her build confidence, find her voice, and connect authentically with audiences. Songwriting, she explains, has always been her primary way of processing emotions and life experiences. Rather than masking vulnerability, Quinn embraces it, allowing her songs to function as emotional documentation and personal growth markers.

The conversation dives into the creation of her recent single “Ghost,” a track that represents a turning point in her artistic evolution. Quinn discusses how collaboration played a pivotal role in finishing the song, highlighting the power of working with artists from different musical backgrounds. That openness to collaboration, she notes, continues to shape her creative process as she looks toward future releases.

Beyond the music itself, Quinn offers an honest perspective on navigating the modern music industry—especially the emotional toll of social media. She speaks candidly about the importance of protecting mental health, setting boundaries with technology, and resisting the pressure to constantly perform online. For Quinn, success isn’t defined by numbers or virility, but by authenticity, sustainability, and the ability to keep creating meaningful work.

This episode of The Hang! is a compelling look at what it means to grow as an artist—creatively, emotionally, and personally—while staying true to yourself in an ever-changing music landscape.

#QuinnODonnell #IndieRock #NashvilleMusic #Songwriting #TheHangPodcast

In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Sam Blasucci, the Ojai-based singer-songwriter known for his work with psychedelic folk duo Mapache and his ambitious solo project Physical Dream.

Sam shares the story behind creating his massive 28-song double album, recorded on a remote island in British Columbia and shaped by a deeply personal creative journey. Blending indie folk, Latin influences, mysticism, and experimental textures, Physical Dream represents one of Sam’s most expansive artistic statements yet.

The conversation explores Sam’s musical roots growing up with a musician father, his early influences ranging from Enya and the Beatles to Mexican folk traditions, and how those sounds helped shape his distinctive style. Scott and Sam also dive into the role of mental health in creativity, the value of artistic exploration across mediums like painting and photography, and why live music remains the most powerful way to connect with audiences. They also discuss the evolving landscape of music consumption, the importance of supporting independent artists, and Sam’s dream collaboration with global star Rosalía.

If you love conversations about music, creativity, and the artistic process, this episode offers a deep look into the mind of a musician who refuses to limit himself to one form of expression.

🎧 Listen now and discover why Sam Blasucci believes music should be experienced as a journey from start to finish.

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#SamBlasucci #Mapache #IndieFolk #SongwriterInterview #TheHangPodcast

What shapes a punk frontwoman? For Stacey Dee of Bad Cop/Bad Cop, it started in a San Francisco band house, reel-to-reel tapes, and seeing The Go-Go’s at five years old.

In this episode of The Hang!, Stacey opens up about growing up surrounded by reggae, MTV, and rock history, and how that foundation led her to co-found one of modern punk’s most vital bands. She shares the creative evolution behind Lighten Up, why collaboration transformed the band’s sound, and how trusting her instincts changed everything.

But this conversation goes deeper than music.

Stacey talks about sobriety, surviving cancer, touring for seven straight months, and co-founding The Sidewalk Project — a nonprofit serving unhoused artists in Los Angeles. From Skid Row outreach to overdose response efforts that helped reduce deaths in the community, her activism is rooted in lived experience.

You’ll hear about:

• Writing songs that take years to find their moment • Why authenticity matters more than trends • The punk community as chosen family • Dream collaboration with Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Rachel Dratch, and Tina Fey • The real story behind Bad Cop/Bad Cop’s creative process

This isn’t just a band interview. It’s a conversation about purpose, identity, and believing in yourself.

Oakland/San Francisco punk trio BitchFit aren’t waiting for permission — they’re building their own lane.

In this episode of The Hang!, Ailish, Tallulah, and Lila break down how three teenage musicians turned friendship, therapy, and shared rage into one of the Bay Area’s most fearless young punk bands. Raised around classical, jazz, soul, and punk, they found common ground in Riot Grrrl, political urgency, and the need to say what others won’t.

They talk about writing “Girl Soldiers” the day after the election, why songs like “Barbie’s World” and “Paid Administrative Leave” feel personal, and how flow state transforms their live shows into something electric. The band opens up about facing criticism in the scene, being labeled “too Riot Grrrl,” and why they refuse to shrink themselves to make others comfortable.

BitchFit also shares what it means to play Doll Fest alongside artists who paved the way — and how Kathleen Hanna and My Chemical Romance still inspire their creative fire.

This isn’t just a punk interview. It’s a conversation about voice, feminism, privilege, community, and why young artists using their platform matters more than ever.

If you care about punk, Riot Grrrl, or the next wave of politically fearless bands — this one’s essential.

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In this episode of The Hang!, Scott Saldinger sits down with Seoul-based death punk disco band 18 Fevers to unpack their origins, their sound, and the underground scene shaping them.

Fronted by Christmas, alongside VV (guitar), Matt (bass), and Garrick (drums), 18 Fevers blend hardcore, goth, thrash, and dance-punk into what they half-jokingly — and now proudly — call death punk disco. But behind the chaos and humor is something deeper: a band pushing against Korea’s conservative norms, creating space for women in punk, and refusing to dilute their identity for algorithms or trends.

Christmas shares how Pink Floyd and a life-changing 2009 Korean rock festival sparked her path into music. Matt reflects on growing up in the Southern California punk scene before relocating to Seoul. VV talks about trading painting for live performance — and why sadness, power, and emotion matter more than perfection.

They break down key tracks like “Dance Macabre,” “Save Your Venom,” and “Never Fall,” discuss pressing their first full vinyl release via California’s Lava Socks Records, and explain how a chance meeting at Rebellion Festival led to their upcoming performance at Doll Fest 2026.

This is a conversation about authenticity, female-forward punk, creative risk, and building community across continents.

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What shaped Girl In A Coma’s sound—and why does it still resonate today?

In this episode of The Hang, San Antonio trio Girl In A Coma open up about their origin story, creative evolution, and the sisterhood that built their foundation. Nina Diaz shares how learning power chords from her older sisters sparked a songwriting journey at just 13 years old—one that would grow into a fearless blend of punk urgency, indie grit, and emotional vulnerability. 

The band reflects on their Riot Grrrl influences, The Smiths, Silverchair, Morrissey, and the way their third album Trio B.C. intentionally embraced genre shifts rather than sticking to one “safe” sound. They discuss sobriety, therapy, community, and the emotional strength required to create in a world of constant feedback.

Nina names Mike Patton as her dream collaborator. Jenn speaks about the lasting influence of Kathleen Hanna. Fani reflects on drumming inspiration and creative resilience. The conversation also dives into Dollfest, new music, and the San Antonio scene that shaped them.

If you’ve ever felt unseen and turned the volume up anyway—this one’s for you.

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In this episode of The Hang, The Dreaded Laramie frontwoman MC Cunningham opens up about heartbreak, authenticity, and why real connection matters more than ever in a digital world.

Blending punk urgency with power pop melody, The Dreaded Laramie turns emotional wreckage into sharp, hook-driven anthems. MC shares how early guitar lessons, rejection from a songwriting program, and a life-changing introduction to Weezer helped shape her creative voice. What started as discouragement eventually became a band built on honesty, collaboration, and DIY grit.

The conversation dives deep into the band’s breakout record Princess Feedback, including tracks like “Fishnets” and “I Should Go,” both rooted in the messy tension between what we want and what we know we should do. MC explains how shifting song structures mirror emotional whiplash, and how journaling, philosophy, and self-reflection fuel her songwriting.

Beyond the music, this episode explores technology, authenticity, AI, streaming culture, and the importance of showing up for artists in real life. From limited-edition Warped Tour compilation cuts to community-driven festivals like Dollfest, this is a conversation about building something real in an increasingly disposable world.

If you care about punk with heart, power pop with depth, and music that refuses to fake it — this one’s for you.

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#TheDreadedLaramie #PrincessFeedback #PunkPowerPop #IndieRock #Dollfest #TheHang #almostfamousmagazine 

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Kayla Renelle, Alex Quick, Andrew Narveson, and Brandon McCullough of Voluntary Hazing, the 12-piece ska and pop-punk powerhouse formed in San Jose, California. What started as a college marching band tradition — yes, involving a porta-potty and a fight song — evolved into one of the Bay Area’s most vibrant horn-driven live acts.

The band breaks down the real story behind their controversial name (no, they do not advocate hazing), how a 50-member campus ska ensemble whittled down into a tight touring unit, and why ska music remains one of the most joyful and unifying genres in modern punk culture.

They also dive into their creative process, the ghost-themed lyric video that fans can’t stop watching, the bet that led to eating a saxophone reed, and the mentors who shaped them as musicians. Plus — they share what Dollfest means to them and what fans can expect next.

If you love ska revival, pop punk storytelling, and DIY bands with heart, this episode is your next listen.

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In this episode of The Hang, Scott Saldinger sits down with Bay Area punk trio Black Gold Sun — Anita Carol Lofton, Veronica, and Q Lynn — to talk about how a post-election spark turned into one of the most electrifying new bands in punk.

The idea was simple but urgent: the world needed a Black girl punk band. What followed was a spontaneous sidewalk show outside a San Francisco skateboard shop, a second gig at The Ivy Room, and a fast track to Doll Fest 2026. But this isn’t just a story about momentum — it’s about intention.

Anita brings sharp, temperature-of-the-world lyricism. Veronica delivers groove-first bass rooted in instinct over theory. Q Lynn — a drummer shaped by marching bands, community programs, and deep hip-hop influence — stepped into punk for the first time and immediately made it thunder.

They talk tone and texture, collaboration without ego, and what punk means now — not as a genre gatekept by history, but as a space where you don’t need permission to speak your truth.

With an album expected in May/June 2026, Black Gold Sun aren’t asking to belong in punk. They’re defining it.

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00:00 Welcome to The Hang – Meet Black Gold Sun 02:25 The Election Night Spark That Started the Band 04:15 Finding Q Lynn – The Drummer Who Locked It In 06:40 From Marching Band to Punk Rock 09:30 Veronica’s Bass Journey & Bay Area Roots 12:05 Writing the Album – Tone, Texture & Truth 15:30 The Sidewalk Show That Changed Everything  17:45 From Street Corner to Doll Fest 2026 19:35 What Punk Means Now – Safe Spaces & Revolution 29:00 Dream Collaborations: Questlove, Dave Grohl & More

#BlackGoldSun #PunkRock #BayAreaMusic #WomenInPunk #TheHang #AlmostFamousMagazine #DollFest #IndieMusic

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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Independent hip hop artist DAMAG3 sits down on The Hang to unpack the real story behind her evolution — from childhood Metallica moments to a near breaking point in 2020 that reignited her creative life.

Rooted in Louisiana but carving out a fiercely genre-blending sound, DAMAG3 opens up about the humiliation rituals of early creativity, the complicated relationship between failure and growth, and how fear nearly silenced her before she ever began. What started with a laptop, a mic, and unemployment money has grown into five years of relentless output — political anthems, introspective confessions, and tracks that refuse easy categorization.

She breaks down the meaning behind defining songs like “Run,” “Hunter Schaefer,” and “Should I Stay,” revealing how authenticity, not algorithm-chasing, is now guiding her process. From anger-fueled viral moments to rediscovering inspiration through morning pages and self-reflection, DAMAG3 shares what it really means to outgrow your own persona. The conversation also explores her upcoming appearance at Doll Fest, the power of queer community in live music spaces, and her dream collaborations with Tyler, The Creator and Kendrick Lamar.

This is not a surface-level music interview. It’s a raw discussion about identity, ego, creative discipline, and what happens when an artist decides to stop performing for the algorithm — and start listening to themselves.

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How do you start a band in the middle of a pandemic — and turn it into something powerful?

In this episode of The Hang!, Scott Saldinger sits down with Mary Diridon and Serge of Beneath You, the Bay Area pop punk band blending melodic hooks, ska-adjacent rhythms, and emotionally charged storytelling. What began as a COVID-era songwriting experiment between a couple evolved into a full band powered by members of Dance Hall Crashers and decades of punk experience.

Mary opens up about overcoming lifelong stage fright — including how open mics became her unlikely training ground. Serge reflects on touring the world in bands like Limp and the evolution of punk community from early Punk Rock Bowling days to today’s inclusive festival culture.

They dive deep into their album General Hermitude, breaking down standout tracks like “Lizzy” and “Information,” and how collaboration transformed those songs from simple demos into dynamic, explosive anthems.

The conversation explores songwriting as partnership, the reality of modern music consumption, why community matters more than ever, and what Dollfest represents for the future of punk rock.

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In this episode of The Hang, Scott Saldinger sits down with Wonderland Rejects, the Bay Area queercore punk trio carrying the legacy of 1980s queercore and riot grrrl into a new era of independent music.

The band shares how punk became a lifeline — from early musical influences to discovering identity, chosen family, and creative purpose within the underground scene. They unpack their debut album Goodbye Wonderland, explaining how its sound draws from classic queercore, DIY punk ethics, and femme-forward rebellion while confronting modern issues facing LGBTQ+ artists.

Wonderland Rejects break down their collaborative songwriting process, revealing how songs evolve through conversation, lived experience, and spontaneous rehearsal moments rather than polished industry formulas. They also speak candidly about navigating today’s music economy: social media fatigue, algorithm pressure, DIY touring, self-produced visuals, and why live punk shows remain essential for real connection in a digital-first world.

The conversation turns to their upcoming release Hello Rejects, hinting at a blues-tinged expansion of their punk sound while staying rooted in raw energy and political urgency.

If you’re searching for modern queercore bands, femme-fronted punk artists, Bay Area DIY music, or the future of inclusive punk rock, this episode offers an unfiltered look at how underground scenes survive and evolve.

Punk isn’t nostalgia here — it’s community, resistance, and forward motion.

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In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Christina and Matt of The Hellflowers, a Los Angeles–based punk rock band known for their raw energy, emotional depth, and refusal to be boxed into a single genre. The conversation traces Christina’s earliest connection to music at age three, shaped by rebellion, survival, and self-discovery, alongside Matt’s unconventional path from childhood violin lessons to skate-punk obsession and guitar-driven songwriting.

Together, they unpack how The Hellflowers formed through personal relationships, long-distance commitment, and an organic creative process that values feel over formulas. Rather than chasing trends, the band focuses on texture, collaboration, and letting songs evolve naturally—sometimes pulling from punk, garage rock, goth, or even unexpected instrumentation like marimba, accordion, and trumpet.

The discussion also explores The Hellflowers’ deep connection to community and inclusivity within punk culture, including how those values led them to become part of DollFest, a festival centered on amplifying femme-fronted and marginalized voices. Christina and Matt reflect on why punk remains one of the most welcoming and protective music scenes, the importance of supporting artists directly, and what fans can expect from their upcoming shows and future releases.

This episode is about music as survival, collaboration as identity, and why punk still matters—now more than ever.

The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine

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In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Grey Starr, the creative force behind Pretty Frankenstein, a Bay Area–based queer alt-goth collective blending punk intensity, cinematic darkness, and deeply personal storytelling.

Grey shares how growing up in a musical Filipino family shaped their artistic foundation, from early exposure to goth, punk, and industrial music to later embracing genre-bending experimentation. The conversation explores what it means to create music rooted in identity—where art, queerness, family, and community all intersect. Grey opens up about performing with their parents, the power of visible trans joy on stage, and why authenticity matters more than fitting neatly into any single genre.

The episode also dives into Pretty Frankenstein’s creative process, songwriting philosophy, and wide-ranging influences—from the macabre atmospheres of goth to punk’s urgency, hip-hop rhythms, and blues-driven storytelling inspired by artists like Tom Waits and Nick Cave. Grey discusses standout tracks like “Girls Will Be Ghouls,” the balance between catchiness and meaning, and the importance of making music that feels communal and singable.

Finally, the conversation highlights the band’s upcoming appearance at Doll Fest, an artist-driven festival centered on representation, care, and real community support. This episode is a candid look at underground music, chosen family, and why supporting local artists is essential for art to survive.

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The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine