Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Waterproof Records with Jacob Givens

Before grunge took over the world, there was a time when soaring guitar solos, enormous choruses, and a whole lot of heartbreak ruled our Walkmans. This week on Waterproof Records, I'm revisiting my 10 favorite power ballads from the late '80s and early '90s! From Def Leppard and Skid Row to Bon Jovi, Poison, and beyond, we're traveling back to a time when a childhood crush could feel like the end of the world. Along the way, I'm sharing personal memories of roller rink romances, awkward adolescence, MTV, and the songs that somehow made all those big feelings even bigger. Grab your headphones, embrace the nostalgia, and let me know which power ballad still gets you right in the heart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neil Diamond on Waterproof Records?! Yep. This is happening. In my first solo episode in six months, I’m stepping outside the usual world of 90s alternative and grunge to talk about an artist who has been part of my musical life since childhood. From hearing The Jazz Singer on family road trips to discovering just how deep Neil Diamond’s songwriting catalog really goes, this episode is about nostalgia, memory, and the music that sticks with us whether it was ever considered “cool” or not. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Craig Wedren and Adam Wade of the legendary Shudder to Think join me on Waterproof Records! We talk about the band’s return to making new music, their new EP Who Sent You?, and why creating together again feels different after nearly 30 years. We also travel back through Shudder to Think’s history—from the DC scene and Dischord Records to Pony Express Record, MTV, and the wonderfully strange musical world they created along the way. And, as always, we dig into the records that helped shape Craig and Adam when they were young, and the memories that come rushing back when you hear those albums again. This one covers a lot of ground: punk rock, growing older, parenthood, creativity, nostalgia, and what happens when you reconnect with the music—and the people—who helped make you who you are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dig frontman Scott Hackwith joins me to trace the band’s journey from the early ’90s Los Angeles music scene and the MTV success of “Believe” to their long-awaited new album, [i]. Scott shares how an album discovered during an isolated childhood became his musical escape, how a punk-rock girlfriend reshaped his world, and how Dig found its sound alongside influences like My Bloody Valentine, Fugazi, Ride and Jane’s Addiction. We also talk major-label chaos, the fear of “selling out” in the ’90s, making the “Believe” video on a shoestring budget, and why the band is creating and performing again after more than three decades. Plus, Scott reveals the wonderfully simple origin of Dig’s name—and tells a truly unforgettable story from the road with Bad Brains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kira Roessler joins me to trace a remarkable musical journey—from discovering Billie Holiday and witnessing the birth of the Los Angeles punk scene to playing bass with Black Flag, forming dos with Mike Watt, and creating her new solo album, Enigma. We talk about the evolution of punk, surviving brutal Black Flag tours while attending UCLA, her innovative approach to intertwining bass lines, and how her award-winning career in sound editing continues to shape the way she hears and creates music.And, of course, Kira reveals the waterproof record that first made music feel like it truly belonged to her. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Waterproof Records Podcast, Petey USA joins me to talk about his journey as a musician and songwriter—and how his viral absurdist comedy introduced his work to an even wider audience. We explore the strange magic of the Midwest, the humor and vulnerability behind his music, and the formative records that helped shape his creative DNA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Greg Katz, Mark "Echo" Edwards, and Mandy Tannen of the L.A. band Cheekface join me for a conversation about how they came together, embracing creativity without expectations, the surprising success that followed, and the albums that shaped each of their musical journeys. Along the way, we talk about art, songwriting, nostalgia, and why making something just because you love it can sometimes lead to the best results. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with Mark Hennessy, the voice of Paw, an underrated band to emerge in the '90s from Lawrence, Kansas with their own special "heartland grunge" sound. Mark shares a bit about his stage 4 cancer diagnosis, how it changed his outlook on life, rediscovering the joy of performing, and why music continues to give him purpose. It's an honest conversation about creativity, gratitude, and the power that great records still have to connect us.If you grew up on '90s alternative rock—or you're discovering Paw for the first time—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For nearly 40 years, Greg Attonito and The Bouncing Souls have been one of punk rock's most beloved and enduring bands. In this episode of Waterproof Records, Greg joins Jacob to talk about the band's upcoming album Born to Be, the creative process behind new music, and what it means to make uplifting, unifying art in a divided world. The conversation explores Greg's musical roots growing up in New Jersey, the records and artists that shaped him, and the surprising story behind his Waterproof Record selection. Along the way, Greg reflects on songwriting, finding inspiration in other people's stories, the lasting power of music, and the moments that first made him fall in love with being a musician. From punk rock to the blues, from Springsteen to Robert Johnson, this is a fascinating conversation about creativity, connection, and the albums that leave a permanent mark on our lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Waterproof Records podcast, I sit down with drummer David Glass of Christian Death to talk about the legacy of one of the most influential and controversial bands to ever emerge from the underground music scene. From the early days of the Los Angeles deathrock movement to the artistic vision of Rozz Williams, this conversation dives deep into music, rebellion, creativity, identity, and the emotional weight that art can carry across generations. We also discuss the upcoming documentary Romeo’s Distress by director Nico B, which explores the life, art, and lasting impact of Rozz Williams through interviews, rare footage, and stories from the people who knew him best. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Waterproof Records lands on the perfect date: 5/8… which means it’s only right that I sit down with Five Eight, a staple of the Georgia indie rock scene. In this inspiring conversation, I chat with drummer Patrick Ferguson and filmmaker Marc Pilvinsky about the documentary, Weirdo: The Story of Five Eight, surviving the chaos of the 90s alternative rock explosion, and why making art matters more than fame ever could. What starts as a conversation about an underground band quickly becomes something much bigger — a discussion about mental health, friendship, live music, nostalgia, perseverance, and the healing power of art. The episode dives into what it felt like to come up during the golden era of indie rock, the emotional connection people have with music, and why some bands never become household names… yet still change countless lives. If you love 90s alternative music, underground music documentaries, stories of resilience, or simply hearing passionate people talk about why music matters… this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Waterproof Records podcast, I sit down with the incredibly talented Zach MacLachlan (aka Mac Glocky)—the mind behind those viral “what if this song was done by that band” videos you’ve definitely seen scrolling through your feed. From turning pop hits into heavy rock anthems to building a massive following through sheer dedication, Zach has carved out a lane that’s equal parts entertaining and seriously impressive. But behind the viral moments is something deeper—a real musician putting in real hours to bring these ideas to life. We discuss how authenticity still cuts through in a world of trends and algorithms, and how he feels about modern music creation—where new tools, shortcuts, and generative tech are changing the landscape. This isn’t about tearing anything down—it’s about highlighting the value of craft, passion, and the human element in music. The kind of stuff you can’t fake. If you love music, creativity, or just seeing someone really put in the work to master their craft… this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 100… I still can’t believe I’m saying that. From the very beginning of Waterproof Records to right now—whether you’ve been here since day one or you’re just tuning in because of today’s guest—thank you for being part of this journey. This show has always been about the music that shapes us, the albums that change us, and the stories that stay with us forever. For the first time ever in the Waterproof Records studio, I’m sitting down in person with a guest—and not just any guest. Aaron “P-Nut” Wills of 311 joins me for Episode 100. We talk about everything—from the early days of 311 and carving out a completely original sound, to life on the road, staying creative for decades, and what it really means to connect with music on a deeper level. We also get into those “waterproof records”—the albums that changed his DNA—and the impact of growing up in the Midwest, discovering music through MTV, and chasing that feeling we all know when something just hits.It’s a conversation about passion, longevity, creativity, and why music still matters as much as it ever did.This one means a lot to me. Hope you enjoy it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 99 is here… and this one means everything. After 99 episodes, the new home studio is finally dialed in—and it feels like the perfect moment to sit back, relax, and talk about one of the most important albums of my life. Today, we’re diving into Explosions in the Sky – The Earth Is Not a Cold Dead Place. If you’ve ever been unsure about instrumental music… if you’ve ever thought, “I need vocals to connect”… I get it. But if you’re going to give one album a chance to change your mind, let it be this one. This record isn’t just music—it’s emotion. It’s memory. It’s life unfolding in sound. In this episode, I talk about: Why this album is in my all-time top 10 The beauty of instrumental storytelling and post-rock How certain songs can hit you so hard… you can’t help but feel everything A personal story about music, nostalgia, and choosing positivity over criticism And why “music lover, not critic” is the energy I want to bring into everything I create There’s something about this album that reminds you…the world isn’t cold and dead—it’s alive, emotional, and worth feeling deeply. If you’ve been riding with me for a while—thank you.If this is your first episode—welcome. You picked a meaningful one. Hit play, lean back, and let’s get into it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Remember when making a mixtape meant something? You didn’t just throw songs together — you crafted a vibe. You built a story. And if you were like me, you probably spent hours deciding which track belonged where.  So that’s exactly what I did here. This episode is Part One of my 90s B-side mixtape, a collection of deep cuts, soundtrack gems, and rare tracks from some of my favorite artists of the era. These are the kinds of songs you only discovered if you hunted down singles, B-sides, and compilation records back in the day — the songs that made you feel like you were in on a secret. Think of this episode like the mixtape I would’ve made for you in the mid-90s… the one I hoped would make you think I had the coolest music taste in the world. If you ever spent hours making a mixtape for a friend — or a crush — this one’s for you. 🎧 Sit back, press play, and then let’s flip the tape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pantera’s Vulgar Display of Power is one of those albums that didn’t just play in the background of my teenage years — it hit me square in the chest. Released on February 25, 1992, this record arrived at a time when I was trying to figure out who I was. I was a young metalhead in Tulsa, Oklahoma, feeling awkward, small, and unsure of where I fit in. Then along came this cassette tape — Vulgar Display of Power on one side and Gish by The Smashing Pumpkins on the other — and it completely reshaped my world. From the opening punch of “Mouth for War” to the swagger and groove of “Walk,” this album felt powerful in a way that was almost overwhelming. Songs like “A New Level” and “F***ing Hostile” gave me a place to put the rage and confusion I didn’t yet know how to articulate. And “This Love” — with its haunting clean intro exploding into sheer sonic violence — remains one of the most dynamic metal songs I’ve ever heard. Produced by Terry Date, the sound of this record is massive. Dimebag Darrell’s guitar tone slices through everything with that unmistakable groove. Vinnie Paul’s drumming is thunderous. Phil Anselmo’s voice moves between bark, growl, and melody in a way that felt alive and unpredictable. It was heavier than anything I had really absorbed up to that point — and I couldn’t get enough. This episode isn’t about controversy or debate. It’s about what this album meant to me in 1992 — how it felt to hear it for the first time on a Walkman, how it carried me through insecurity and bullying, and why it still hits just as hard decades later. Whether you grew up with Pantera or you’re hearing this album for the first time, I’d love to know your experience. Where were you when you first heard Vulgar Display of Power? Let’s talk about it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How did it take me 96 episodes to finally talk about Dusk by The The?! This album has lived in my heart since I was a teenager, and revisiting it now hit me in a totally different way. In this episode of Waterproof Records, I dive deep into Matt Johnson’s 1993 masterpiece — an album that charted huge in the UK but flew under the radar here in the U.S. We talk about the haunting atmosphere of Dusk, the emotional weight of tracks like “Love Is Stronger Than Death,” “Dogs of Lust,” “This Is the Night,” and “Bluer Than Midnight,” and why this record still feels just as powerful decades later. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with the artist known as Two Feet (Bill Dess) for an intimate, honest, and deeply human conversation. Recorded back at Lazy Pickle Studios, this episode dives far beyond the hits. We talk about Two Feet’s rapid rise after “I Feel Like I’m Drowning” went viral, what it’s really like navigating massive success as a DIY artist, and how that moment changed everything. But the heart of this conversation is about sobriety, mental health, and vulnerability—especially as men in the music world. Bill opens up in a powerful way about where he’s been, what he’s learned, and how choosing honesty can literally change lives. This episode is about music, yes—but it’s also about survival, growth, and reminding people they’re not alone. If you’ve ever found comfort in music during hard times, this one’s for you. Thanks for being here, and if you found this episode through Two Feet—welcome. Stick around. We’re just getting started.— Jacob Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy New Year and welcome to 2026. In this episode of Waterproof Records, I’m kicking things off by reflecting on time, age, and how music continues to meet us exactly where we are—and then diving headfirst into my Top 10 Albums of 2025, along with a very necessary list of honorable mentions. This isn’t a critic’s list. There are no rankings, no hype chasing, and no obligation to agree with what anyone else says belongs here. These are simply the albums that found me this year—the records I returned to, lived with, and connected with during specific moments of life. Whether you’re here to discover new music, compare lists, or just hang out and talk records, I’m grateful you’re listening. Thanks for coming back—and if you’re new, welcome to the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Merry Christmas — and welcome to a special holiday episode of Waterproof Records. Whether you’re listening on Christmas Day, sneaking away from family chaos with earbuds in, or finding this episode weeks (or months) later — this one’s meant to feel like a personal Christmas mixtape made just for you. In this special holiday episode, I share 10 Christmas songs that live a little outside the standard holiday playlist. Some are joyful. Some are nostalgic. Some are emotional gut-punches. And some might surprise you. This is less “department store Christmas” and more music that actually meant something to me. We talk about: Why alternative & 90s-leaning Christmas songs deserve more love Building a Christmas mixtape with a Side A / Side B flow The Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer, Jimmy Eat World, Low, Run-DMC, Chris Cornell, and more Why certain songs hit harder as we get older Christmas memories, belief systems, loss, hope, and finding meaning through music This episode is about what music does to us during the holidays — the joy, the sadness, the reflection, and the kindness we wish lasted all year long. So throw on your headphones, step out of the noise for a bit, and join me for Jacob’s Christmas Mixtape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Primus sucks.…or do they? 😏 If you know, you know. And if you don’t know, this episode is about to bring you fully into the weird, wonderful world of Primus. In this episode of Waterproof Records, I dive deep into Sailing the Seas of Cheese — the 1991 album that introduced a generation to Les Claypool’s alien-level bass playing, bizarre humor, nautical nonsense, and one of the most misunderstood inside jokes in alternative music history. Primus isn’t for everyone — and that’s exactly the point. Whether you grew up with this record or you’re hearing about it for the first time, this episode is a celebration of creativity, risk-taking, and embracing the strange. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Smashing Pumpkins fans — this one’s for YOU.Today we take a deep dive into Machina / The Machines of God, the fifth studio album from the original Smashing Pumpkins era and one of the most fascinating chapters in the band’s entire history. From the chaotic label politics, to D'arcy’s departure, to the abandoned double-album concept, to the mythic story of Glass and the Machines of God — this episode unpacks it ALL. I even pull out my original Machina CDs, concert tickets, and memories from catching the band on the Sacred & Profane Tour. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s Halloween, and I'm back with a special Waterproof Records bonus episode! This week, I'm setting the mood for your haunted house, late-night drive, or dance floor with ten underrated songs that belong on your Halloween playlist. Forget the same old Monster Mash and pop hits—these tracks go darker, moodier, and way cooler. From Poe’s haunted beauty to Nine Inch Nails’ chilling cover of Joy Division, from Portishead’s eerie orchestration to The Cure’s gothic masterpiece, I've got you covered with deep cuts that sound like Halloween feels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes a concert weekend hits you so hard it demands its own episode — and that’s exactly what happened at this year’s Best Friends Forever Festival in Las Vegas. From lightning storms and soaked sneakers to emotional sets from Mineral, Cursive, Knapsack, and Elliott, this weekend reminded me why I created Waterproof Records in the first place: to celebrate those transcendent, life-changing moments only music can deliver. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From pounding out his first beats on pots and pans to becoming the rhythmic heart of Failure, Kellii Scott opens up about his wild musical journey, creative philosophy, and the emotional roots that shaped his drumming. It’s a funny, heartfelt, and raw conversation—filled with stories of 90s alt-rock, artistic purpose, and the joy of still creating. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I’m trying something brand new on the podcast — I’m making you a 90s mixtape! These are ten tracks that never fail to wake me up, keep me energized, and remind me why music is pure fuel for the soul. Expect deep cuts, anthems, personal stories, and the kind of nostalgia only a true 90s mixtape can deliver. Whether you grew up blasting these tracks on a road trip, or you’re discovering them for the first time, these songs will give you the same rush they’ve always given me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, I’m thrilled to welcome Luke Bentham and Kyle Fisher of The Dirty Nil — a band I’ve been championing since their explosive debut hit my ears back in 2016. We go way beyond the music to talk about their almost 20-year journey as bandmates and childhood friends, their beginnings with basement jams, and their shared love for blistering riffs and emotional resonance. If you're into authentic rock stories, deep musical dives, and the spirit of DIY grit, this one's for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a short break and a brand-new studio setup, we’re turning our focus to one of the most powerful albums of the 90s — In Utero by Nirvana. This episode unpacks the raw energy, rebellious spirit, and creative fire that fueled Kurt Cobain’s final masterpiece. From the thunderous Steve Albini production to the chaotic brilliance of “Scentless Apprentice” and the unforgettable visuals of “Heart-Shaped Box,” this is a full-blown nostalgia trip through a record that shook the world. Plus, I share personal memories of hearing these songs as a teen and what they meant back then — and still mean today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with Rome Ramirez—the voice behind Sublime with Rome, collaborator with The Dirty Heads, and a musical force embarking on a brand new chapter of his career. Rome opens up about his journey from growing up in Northern California to becoming a central figure in Sublime’s legacy. We talk about the moment he discovered Sublime’s self-titled album, what that record meant to him as a kid, and how it changed the trajectory of his life. But we go deeper than music—we talk about the hustle of LA, fatherhood, what inspires him now as a solo artist, and the joys (and challenges) of passing down our musical obsessions to our kids. This is one of the most heartfelt, honest, and inspiring conversations we’ve had yet. Let’s go! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Waterproof Records, we revisit the groundbreaking debut of one of the most unforgettable voices of the '90s—Fiona Apple. From the haunting vulnerability of “Sullen Girl” to the lyrical fire of “Sleep to Dream,” we explore how Tidal introduced us to a teenage prodigy with wisdom beyond her years. We dive into the cultural impact of the Criminal video, the controversy surrounding her MTV VMAs speech, and the maturity packed into lyrics written when she was just 14. This isn't just an album review—it's a reflection on trauma, self-expression, and the raw power of art. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Punk rock is alive and well — and Teen Mortgage is leading the charge! In this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with the gritty DMV based duo as they pass through LA on tour. We talk about their journey from Craigslist connections to pink furry drums and their killer new album Devil Ultrasonic Dream. From childhood influences to chaotic tour stories, this convo is packed with raw energy, DIY ethos, and deep dives into the punk spirit that fuels their music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It can't rain all the time..." unless you're living in the '90s and wearing your teenage angst like a badge of honor. In this episode of Waterproof Records, I explore the iconic soundtrack of The Crow—an unforgettable mix of goth, grunge, and industrial that defined a generation. From The Cure’s haunting “Burn” to Stone Temple Pilots, Nine Inch Nails, Rage Against the Machine, and more—this is a love letter to the music that helped us brood in our bedrooms and feel every ounce of heartache. 🖤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From garage band dreams to headlining stages, Ian Shelton of Militarie Gun joins me for a raw, hilarious, and insightful chat about his journey through music. We get into his pop punk roots, pandemic creativity, and how a 50-hour work week and an iPhone helped launch one of the most exciting bands of the 2020s. We also talk about male lingerie, drumming egos, and what it really means to “do it faster.” Plus, Ian shares the story behind his Waterproof Record—the album that lit the fuse and made him want to start a band in the first place. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a special one—The Dumes are here! I met this band around a year ago when they opened for Louise Post at the Troubadour, so it was so cool to finally sit down and chat with the band. So welcome singer Elodie Tomlinson, guitarist Peter Recine, and bassist Liam McCormick to talk about their journey, their influences, and the music they’ve been working on. From the bands that shaped their sound to what’s next on their horizon, we cover it all in this epic conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time's up! No, seriously—let’s jump headfirst into Time's Up, the second album from the legendary New York band Living Colour! This episode is all about the groundbreaking 1990 record that blew my mind as a kid and still holds up today with its powerful mix of rock, funk, metal, jazz, and thought-provoking themes. I share my personal connection to the album, my first experiences hearing it, and why Time's Up was the first rock record to open my eyes to politics, race, and social issues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I sat down with Kevin Martin to talk about Candlebox’s journey—from their explosive debut in the Seattle grunge scene of the ‘90s to their farewell album, The Long Goodbye. Kevin shares stories about the band’s rise, their biggest influences, and what it was like finding his voice. We also geek out about the modern music scene, female rock powerhouses, and why some songs never get old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Shawna Potter, the powerhouse lead singer of War on Women—a fierce punk band from Baltimore, Maryland. We talk about her journey, the impact of music, the fight for social justice, and, of course, the record that changed everything for her. A groundbreaking 90s album that inspired her to pick up a guitar and set her on the path to fronting a band that blends activism with raw energy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re sitting down with Cody Hanson, drummer and founding member of Hinder, to talk about 20 years of rock, life on the road, and what’s next for the band. Cody talks about Hinder’s journey, from their breakout album Extreme Behavior to their upcoming tour and new music. We dive into Cody’s musical influences, growing up in Oklahoma, and what he feels is his personal 'waterproof record.' Plus, a funny discovery about hidden rap skills! Hinder is hitting the road for their Back to Life Tour—catch them live in 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we’re cranking up the nostalgia and breaking down the legendary Pump Up the Volume soundtrack from the 1990 cult classic starring Christian Slater. This soundtrack was a defining piece of my youth, full of iconic tracks that pushed boundaries and opened doors to the alternative music scene of the '90s. This was also the soundtrack that introduced me to lyrics and themes that were edgy enough to upset my parents and make my teenage self feel rebellious and empowered.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy 2025! In this episode, we dive into my top 10 albums of 2024. From the intense energy of live performances to groundbreaking studio albums, I break down the music that defined my year. Plus, I’ll share some honorable mentions and stories from the festivals and experiences that made these picks even more special. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Foo Fighters' iconic second album, The Colour and the Shape. Discover the stories behind classic tracks like "Everlong," "Monkey Wrench," and "My Hero," as we unpack the band's creative process, the drama behind the recording sessions, and how Dave Grohl transformed personal struggles into unforgettable rock anthems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we're diving deep into the iconic soundscapes of Portishead's groundbreaking 1994 album, Dummy. From its eerie noir vibes to the lush trip-hop beats, this quintessential '90s masterpiece defined a genre and influenced a generation of music lovers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Around 1997, it started to feel like my music tastes were beginning to mellow and I wasn't seeking out heavy music as much anymore-- until one day when I turned on MTV and saw this band called Deftones screaming with sharks for the My Own Summer (Shove It) music video. Around the Fur would be my introduction to this alternative metal band from Sacramento, and the sexy, cool, sinister sound of loud / quiet / loud suited my tastes perfectly.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After attending Best Friends Forever Festival, my mind was transported back to a time in the late 90s when I was leaving high school and entering college in Illinois. It just so happened that at the same time, the Midwestern Emo scene was blossoming all around me, and the out of body experience I would feel about these bands inspired a truly emotional episode about my time in the Midwest as a young adult.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Waterproof Records I welcome drummer Tim Dow from Shiner, Year of the Rabbit, as well as several other collaborations and side projects. Tim shares his musical journey, some of his dazed and confused inspirations as a teenager, and why becoming a sandwich drummer could very well be the next best thing.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1998 The Smashing Pumpkins returned to us in a different shape than before. Now there were only three, and what remained of the band felt like grief in a gothic gown, introspective and embracing solitude. Somehow Adore mirrored where I found myself as a young man learning to be alone for the first time, and this album has only matured over time. Join me this week as we revisit this divisive departure we found ourselves in Once Upon a Time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the early 2000s, the garage rock revival was dominating the airwaves when I first heard Cursive's 'The Ugly Organ' with a sound I'd never heard before with its of blending post-hardcore punk and cello. Two decades later and Cursive, led by prolific musician/songwriter Tim Kasher, continues to churn out albums with catchy hooks and infectious energy, so I felt fortunate to catch up with Tim about what inspires him, what are some of his foundations in music, and why it's important to love what you create. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Being born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, it wasn't long before I caught wind of The Flaming Lips-- an experimental psychedelic art-rock band rising out of our neighboring Oklahoma City. By summer of 1993, you could hear people singing 'Taaaaaangerines' along with front-man Wayne Coyne on MTV, but it was when I first purchased Transmissions from the Satellite Heart on CD that I witnessed the earliest days of this enduring band that has metamorphosized into a joyful celebration of art, music and life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 1996, Jonny Polonsky greeted the world with his debut album 'Hi My Name is Jonny' on Rick Rubin's American Recordings Label. Since then, Jonny has continued to be a prolific singer/songwriter by writing catchy melodies, releasing solo albums, and collaborating with artists like Neil Diamond, Frank Black and Johnny Cash-- to name a few. That's why I was happy to invite Jonny on Waterproof Records this week to hear about the albums that changed his life, how he used the telephone to track down rock and roll mentors, and why it's always about the songwriting.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sing along with the common people! Sing along and it might just get you through! In 1995, a band from Sheffield, England called Pulp finally had their day in the sun when that anthemic chorus elevated them to a different class. For many of us in the U.S., we were watching the wave of popular Britpop bands like Blur and Oasis, but Pulp wasn't getting as much of our attention on MTV. Join me as I dig into one of my favorite albums by the band, and see why it deserves all the fanfare and praise it receives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices