Explore every episode of the podcast 604 Records Presents: Verses

What was it like building a band in Western Canada before streaming, before social media, and before anyone outside your city knew your name?

In this episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with 64 Funnycars, one of Victoria's underground power-pop bands from the late 80s, to talk about the realities of building a music career in Canada during a completely different era.

They share stories about:

• Recording a full album in just 36 hours
• Touring Western Canada with almost no infrastructure
• Playing legendary venues like Harpo's Campus radio shaping the success of indie bands
• The chaos of booking DIY tours before the internet
• Why some bands chose not to chase fame
• And much more!

This episode is available in video form on YouTube. If you enjoy local music conversation - hit subscribe! Thanks for watching.

Jonathan Simkin sits down with Dave Faber of Faber Drive to talk through the making of Seven Second Surgery, late-night studio tales, vocal surgery and recovery, why some records break in Canada but not the US, and 604 Records' plan to reissue and upscale videos for the band's 19th anniversary. Dave also walks us through his son's meteoric rise (Powfu / "Coffee For Your Head"), the legal/clearance journey, and what it's like managing family in the streaming era.

• Faber Drive / Dave Faber —https://www.instagram.com/davefabermusic/?hl=en

• Verses — https://www.tiktok.com/@verses.604

• Jonathan - https://www.tiktok.com/@604simkin

Timestamps:

00:12 — Intro

01:48 —Dave's early career

04:37 — Pre-Faber Drive projects

06:02 — Family & kids (Isaiah, Henry)

08:39 — Signing story: Chad, Joey, Brian & how 604 got involved

12:24 — The producer dream team: Chad Kroeger, Joey Moi & Brian Howes

15:16 — Recording Seven Second Surgery — long sessions & memories

16:07 — Joey's studio advice (loosen up in the booth)

19:47 — Vocal surgery: polyp / voice recovery

20:38 — Canada vs. US: what worked and what didn't

24:20 — Demos, comeback single Get Up & Dance & "I Can't Keep a Secret"

26:16 — Chief / Kevin Zaruk and team stories

28:12 — Later albums, singles still played today (Tongue Tied, When I'm With You)

31:27 — 19th anniversary reissue — upscales, vinyl & deluxe plans

33:46 — New acoustic recordings + cover ("(I Just) Died in Your Arms Tonight")

36:34 — Faith in the music business — navigating conscience & challenges

39:29 — Powfu ("Coffee For Your Head") story — beats, clearance & Columbia deal

44:14 — Streaming numbers, catalog value & Marianas Trench box set anecdote

46:36 — Legacy, fans, and final thoughts

47:35 — Close

Canadian pop duo Fionn (Alanna & Brianne) join Kevvy Maher (Fake Shark, 604 Records) on Verses to reveal the stories behind their viral single "Blow" and fan favorite "Banshee." They break down their unique 15-minute songwriting rule, share behind-the-scenes moments from recording Everyone's a Critic, and talk about the thrill of hearing their music on Vancouver radio.

The trio also dish on prepping for Fionn's first U.S. tour, road-trip mishaps, and what it takes to succeed in today's Canadian indie pop scene. Perfect for fans of indie pop, songwriting podcasts, and anyone curious about the modern music industry.

The full episode is also available in video on Youtube!

Chase The Bear & Danny Craig of Rock Is Dead sit down with Jonathan Simkin to chat through the band's origin story, adapting to the way music is consumed now, and where Rock music is going now.

The band also talk influences from Chad Kroeger to Beethoven & Paganini, and exchange stories with Jonathan and Danny about some of the biggest songs and artists in history.

The full ep is also available wherever you get your audio podcasts! Check out the Verses social channels for more: https://www.instagram.com/verses.604/ & https://www.tiktok.com/@verses.604

Jonathan Simkin of 604 Records sits down with country artist Mitch Zorn to talk about the booming Kelowna music scene, the excitement of signing to a label, and how radio, streaming & viral moments impact artists today. Mitch shares thoughts on his new EP, staying authentic in the digital age, and why AI should enhance—not replace—creativity

In this episode they explore:

Kelowna's vibrant music scene

The emotional ride of signing a record deal

How streaming and radio shape artist careers today

The thrill (and reality) of viral moments

Mitch's new EP & upcoming tour plans

The weirdness of AI in music right now 🤖

Reflections on live shows, memorable moments & big dreams

Subscribe for more behind the scenes interviews with Canada's emerging artists.

Charlie Kerr of Hotel Mira sits down with Freeze The Fall to talk about the journey from local Kelowna music scenes to creating technically complex, emotionally powerful music. They break down songwriting processes, unexpected influences, and how technicality and creativity collide in the studio. The conversation dives into:

How Freeze The Fall members met and started making music together. 

The balance between melody, technical complexity, and collaborative songwriting.

Inspiration from unexpected sources like folklore, ethereal vibes, and contrasting musical styles. Building a fanbase through live shows and the YouTube reactor community. 

Upcoming concept albums, interactive storytelling, and the joys of creating immersive music experiences. 

This episode is full of insight on collaboration, originality, and connecting with an audience. 

The Armchair Cynics sit down with Jonathan to revisit a wild chapter of Canadian alt-rock: the Killing the Romance era, the story behind "Coal Mine," why "Starting Today" still hits, and the hard drive discovery that unearthed unreleased demos.

They break down recording with Dave Genn, sessions with Chad Kroeger & Joey Moi at Mountain View, mixes by Mike Fraser, and why the band passed on a Theory of a Deadman tour. They also dive into AI video upscaling (restoring "A Blaze," "Coal Mine," and "Bang" from old MuchMusic sources), Victoria, BC music scene of the 2000s, and reuniting at 604's studio on the legendary Little Mountain Sound console. Plus: life after the band—production, coral farming (Beyond the Reef), and an AC/DC cover band—then back together to record again.

🎧 Listen to Verses on all audio platforms. 📺 Watch the newly upscaled videos soon and follow for 604 Decades releases.

Timestamps:

0:12 - Intro

1:38 - How it went for the Armchair Cynics

4:28 - How 604 discovered the band (the Victoria connection)

10:35 - AI upscaling + MuchMusic archives: restoring "A Blaze," "Coal Mine," "Bang"

20:28 - The timing in their lives for committing to music

23:35 - Working with Dave Genn, Chad Kroeger & Joey Moi (Mountain View) Mixes by Mike Fraser; studio gear & Little Mountain console

27:28 - Saying no to a Theory of a Deadman tour—what changed

28:47 - Why the island is a weird place

30:22 - Life after the band

36:54 - Reuniting at 604, vinyl ideas & the 604 Decades plan

After six months without speaking due to a personal and professional dispute, Jonathan Simkin (604 Records founder, music lawyer, and manager) and Andrew Hyatt (award-winning Canadian country artist) reunite for the first time — on Verses.

This is more than a standard music industry podcast episode. It's a raw, unfiltered, and often funny conversation between two major voices in the Canadian music scene with a complicated history. They open up about what caused their falling out, how they've changed, and where their relationship — and the industry — is headed.

Along the way, Jonathan and Andrew share behind-the-scenes music business stories, lessons learned from decades in the industry, and personal insights into songwriting, divorce, politics, and the realities of navigating both friendship and career in music.

If you're into Canadian music industry stories, artist-manager dynamics, music business conflicts, and authentic artist interviews, this reunion episode delivers it all.

🎧 Available now on YouTube & wherever you get your podcasts.

Timestamps:
0:12 – Introduction to the episode & the dispute
14:58 – Jonathan's career as a lawyer & how it shapes conflict resolution today
22:32 – The tweet that landed Jonathan in hot water
25:50 – Andrew on writing music about divorce & fan reactions
44:02 – Political inspiration behind Andrew's new music
57:57 – Jonathan's backstage joke that rattles musicians
59:52 – Why music award shows aren't as great as they seem

#VersesPodcast #JonathanSimkin #AndrewHyatt #MusicIndustryStories #CanadianMusic #BehindTheScenesMusic #ArtistInterview #MusicBusiness #MusicReunion #604Records #CountryMusic #ArtistManagerRelationship #MusicIndustryPodcast #CanadianCountryMusic

Jonathan Simkin sits down with Dave Benedict (Default) and Brett & Nolan from The Vidos to talk new music, their upcoming tour, and the lessons learned from years in the music industry. From high school band days to navigating record labels, the conversation covers authenticity in songwriting, the urgency of career goals, and the bonds that keep musicians going. Plus—stories about hockey, unexpected inspirations, and why long-lasting industry friendships are rare treasures.

#TheVidos #DaveBenedict #VersesPodcast #DefaultBand #CanadianMusic #RockMusic #MusicPodcast #TourLife #Songwriting #BehindTheScenesMusic

Jonathan Simkin (604 Records) sits down with Nikhil Dwivedi from EYP Creations to discuss the rise of Punjabi music on the global stage, the art of artist management, digital music trends, and how EYP is supporting emerging talent through projects like Your Debut Canada. Learn why perfecting your craft matters more than networking—and why the future of Canadian music looks so bright. 

The pair discuss:

• The incredible global rise of Punjabi music 🌍

• The challenges and strategies behind artist management & branding

• How digital platforms, streaming, and satellite radio are reshaping the industry

• Supporting emerging artists through initiatives like Your Debut Canada

• Why artists should focus on perfecting their craft over chasing connections

• Work-life balance while building a music business with family

• The future of music in Canada and beyond 🇨🇦

The full episode is also available on YouTube.

Chevy Beaulieu joins 604 Records President Jonathan Simkin on Verses to discuss his journey as a Métis and First Nations country artist. From his musical roots to his challenges balancing a day job and a rising music career, Chevy's path is one of resilience. Learn about his songwriting process, the importance of mental health, and his aspirations for the future. Don't miss this deep dive into the life of a rising star in the country music scene.

Like what you heard? Let us know! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

Chapters
03:08 Cultural Heritage and Family Background
06:05 Musical Roots and Early Influences
09:02 The Journey to 604 Records
11:57 Showcase Experience and Performance Insights
14:52 Record Label Experience and Charting Success
17:46 Songwriting Process and Authenticity in Music
21:09 Balancing Music Career and Day Job
24:04 Mental Health and Songwriting as Expression
26:31 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Juno Week

In this episode of 604 Records Presents: Verses, President of 604 Records Jonathan Simkin chats with song writer/producer Alan D Boyd , the creative force behind cult shoegaze band Movieland. The pair reminisce on Music now vs then, how Vancouver, London and other big cities have changed over time, and the launch of 604 Decades! Whether you're an aspiring musician or a fan of Alan, Jonathan, or 604 Records, this conversation is packed with funny stories, lessons, and a look behind the curtain of the music industry!

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry! Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe!

Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

Kelsey Hamilton sits down with Kevvy Maher who directed her debut comedy special to talk through it as well as a whole bunch of other nonsense.

We learn why a lime scooter, then a blooper reel was the only thing that mattered for the special, her mother's obsession with Nate Go Wild the mysterious animal videographer, and why she has the best teeth in the game.

Likes/comments/shares help us out big time so please do! The podcast is also available in audio form wherever you get them. Subscribe for more musician/comedian interviews from 604 Records/Light Organ Records/Comedy Here Often.

Join guest host Wendy Boomer as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Mitch Zorn as he takes us through his journey into country music. From his first gig performing alongside his dad to crafting authentic lyrics that resonate, Mitch shares how his musical upbringing and solo songwriting process shape his artistry. Hear about his transformative experiences in Nashville, the unique inspirations behind his songs, and the excitement for his upcoming album and tour.

🚨 Don't miss this chance to get an exclusive look at Mitch's creative process and his mission to headline venues he once played as an opener. Whether you're a country music fan or a songwriting enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights and stories that'll leave you inspired.

Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry!

Like what you heard? Let us know! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

From early opera performances to a dynamic music career, Toddy shares their unique artistic evolution in this episode.

They reflect on transitioning from opera to studio albums, navigating imposter syndrome, and blending their drag persona into their work. The conversation covers the impact of stand-up comedy on songwriting, learning to embrace failure, and the freedom of creative expression. 

Tune in for laughs, insights, and a sneak peek at Toddy's Christmas single, I Want Your Mom. 🎧

Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry!

Like what you heard? Let us know! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

In this episode of Verses, Alanna and Brianne of Fionn open up about their first headlining tour across Canada, sharing stories from the road, from driving in unpredictable weather to fueling up on Tim Hortons.

The sisters dive into the joys of connecting with new fans, unexpected support at their shows, and what it's like performing live on Breakfast Television after only a few hours of sleep. They also reveal how their twin bond gives them a unique edge, from "twin telepathy" on stage to sharing unspoken thoughts, even when they're apart. 

But it's not all smooth sailing—being so close can lead to friction. Hear how they balance the fun, the chaos, and the deep connection that drives their music career. 

Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

Join Matt Webb and Kevvy in this hilarious episode of Verses as they reminisce about their attempts to launch a quirky brand, Mevvy, and the pillowcase prototype that didn't quite take off! They dive into their musical journeys, including Kevvy's upcoming album and tour, and laugh about awkward moments at live shows.

From a night of unexpected chaos involving an ambulance to the struggles of watching comedy gigs, this episode is packed with funny anecdotes and the ups and downs of friendship. Plus, they reflect on their creative beginnings and the quirks that make their dynamic so entertaining.

Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604 

In this episode, Kevvy & Grant share their personal experiences from a years of international performances, exploring the exhilaration of live shows and the reality of being on the road. The chat is full of stories of their early days in a performing arts high school to current successes in music and comedy, and. Join us for a heartfelt discussion about the beauty of following your passion and the surreal moments that come with it!

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry!

Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full audio episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

In this episode of 604 Records Presents: Verses, host Ingrid Borges sits down with Felix, the creative force behind Holy Felix, to dive into his journey as an artist. Felix opens up about his early love for music, how his band came together naturally, and the unique, intentional aesthetic that shapes his performances. Felix also discusses the highs and lows of being an opening act, the inspiration and creative process behind his latest EP Seven, and how a surprising turn of events led him to secure a record deal.

Throughout the interview, Felix shares valuable insights on the importance of networking in the music industry and why it's crucial to treat your craft with dedication and seriousness.

Whether you're an aspiring musician or a fan of Holy Felix, this conversation is packed with inspiration, lessons, and a sneak peek into Felix's upcoming projects and tours.

🎧 Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry!

Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

In this 604 Records Presents: Verses episode, host Ingrid Borges interviews Andrew Bishop, the creative force behind the band WAASH. Over the past decade, Andrew has earned his reputation as one of Vancouver's most versatile pop talents, contributing his songwriting and production skills to projects like Alex Little & the Suspicious Minds, Twin River, and White Ash Falls. Now, with WAASH, he channels his love for expansive shoegaze soundscapes and prolific songwriting into something fresh yet familiar.

Andrew discusses his early musical experiences, starting as a bass player and transitioning into a multifaceted musician and producer. What began as a solo project has blossomed into a full live band, featuring some of Andrew's closest long-time collaborators. Throughout the interview, he reflects on the collaborative songwriting process, the personal themes in his lyrics, and how WAASH represents both a culmination of his career and an exciting new beginning.

Tune in for an in-depth conversation about Andrew's journey, his vision for WAASH, and his plans to make music that both moves and provokes thought.

Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

In this episode of 604 Records Presents: Verses, Charlie Kerr (frontman for Hotel Mira) goes deep into his "all or nothing" mentality, reflecting on addiction, creativity, and the relentless drive that shapes his music. Joined by Kevvy from Fake Shark, the two discuss how their personal struggles and passions have defined their approach to life and art. They touch on band dynamics, the importance of self-acceptance, and how vision often trumps talent in the pursuit of greatness.

🎧 Tune in as they explore what it really means to go all-in, and why sometimes, you just have to "find your crazy."

Watch Hotel Mira's music video for "King Of The World" HERE: https://youtu.be/_GCkpFKn-ac?si=4AEGHNJiVtU_WDas

Like what you saw? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe!

Find full audio episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

In this episode of 604 Podcast Network Presents: Verses, 604 Records President Jonathan Simkin sits down with artist Allison Daniels for an in-depth conversation about her journey to signing with the label and the creation of her first single. They discuss the themes of empowerment and personal experiences that drive Allison's music, as well as the challenges and rewards of navigating the music industry as an emerging artist. Allison shares her thoughts on staying true to her artistic vision and how 604 Records has supported her along the way. The episode wraps up with exciting details about her upcoming projects and what the future holds for this rising star. 🎧 Listen now for behind-the-scenes insights into the music industry and Allison's creative process!

Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full audio episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

We're kicking off "604 Records Presents: Verses" with a no-holds-barred chat between the legends of Marianas Trench and 604 Records President Jonathan Simkin. In this episode, the guys spill the tea on their early hustle in Toronto, the grind of pushing their first album, and how Much Music helped them blow up. They dive into what it really took to build a fan base outside their Vancouver comfort zone, the risks they took to switch up their sound, and the mix of excitement and nerves as they gear up to drop their new album, Haven. This is the real story behind the band's rise—raw, unfiltered, and straight from the source. If you're ready to get up close and personal with Marianas Trench, this is the episode you don't want to miss. Tune in and get ready to hear it all on "604 Records Presents: Verses."

The Jins join Dave Genn on Verses for a chaotic conversation covering their new record, early DIY shows, and their upcoming European tour.

From cassette-era gigs in questionable venues to planning a full overseas run, the band commits to 25 minutes of pure sillyness as Dave regrets his choice of a Monday night.

The episode is out now in video form on YouTube. Subscribe to Verses for regular artist on artist interviews and really sophisticated conversations like this one!

#TheJins #DaveGenn #VersesPodcast #IndieRock #MusicPodcast #BandInterview #NewMusic #TourLife

Welcome to "604 Records Presents: Verses," where the music industry gets real. Brought to you by the trailblazing 604 Records, this podcast dives deep with top artists, uncovering the raw stories, challenges, and victories that shaped their careers. If you're ready to go behind the scenes of the music world, subscribe now and tune in to hear the untold stories that make the music you love.

Sister bands Fionn and Vox Rea join the podcast to talk about growing up in the Vancouver music scene, busking at Granville Island as teenagers, and how the some of the weird experiences there shaped their careers.

Topics include:

• Busking at Granville Island

• Pressure around age in the music industry

• The value of long-term artistic pursuits

• Why the Vancouver music scene is slowly becoming cool

• How a heckle can completely derail you

& much more! 

🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms or watch on YouTube  📺 

Subscribe for more artist interviews and industry stories and please leave a rating/comment they help us out big time!

In this episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with Robyn Ottolini for a candid conversation about going viral with "F-150," signing a major deal, walking away from the industry machine, and rebuilding her career on her own terms.

Robyn shares her journey from growing up in Uxbridge, Ontario to landing a bidding war, signing with Warner Music Nashville, and learning the realities of major-label life. She opens up about creative freedom, radio power, independence, and why she chose a boutique path over industry control.

They also dive into:

How Dallas Smith first discovered her

The viral rise of "F-150"

Navigating Nashville and label politics

Her Disney cover of "I Won't Say I'm In Love" from Hercules

Writing from real life experiences

Why authenticity matters more than trends

Her upcoming debut album and "Growing Down" era

From hometown stories to industry survival, this episode reveals what it really takes to build a sustainable music career today.

🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms or watch on YouTube 📺 Subscribe for more artist interviews and industry stories and please leave a rating/comment they help us out big time!

In this special episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with Payton Adler — frontman of Floorplan — to discuss their debut self-titled EP, creative struggles, and building a loyal fanbase.

Payton opens up about writing from personal lows, performing with emotional intensity, and what it means to release music through 604 Records.

This episode connects to the upcoming film Sweetness, with actor Herman Tømmeraas appearing in character.

Topics include:
– Floorplan's new EP (out March 6)
– The single "Payback"
– Writing about anxiety and relationships
– Fan culture and touring
– Influences like My Chemical Romance
– Performing as emotional release

🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms
📌 Like, comment, share, and save

#VersesPodcast #604Records #SweetnessFilm #IndieRock #MusicInterview #NewMusic #CanadianMusic #FilmMusic

Fake Shark frontman Kevvy Maher joins Jonathan Simkin to talk about making ambitious albums, working with Kool Keith, writing on tour, and building a long-term career outside the major label system.

The pair also devise a genius strategy to make 0.00006% of a penny by streaming their own songs and lots of other smart people talk.

The full episode is available in video form on Youtube. Likes/comments/reviews all help us out big time. Thank you for listening!

Nick and Ally from Sleepy Gonzales join their project manager Joseph for a candid conversation about their new music, creative process, and wildest band stories.

They open up about getting in trouble for their "murdery" music videos, Nick's passion for low-level pro wrestling, and how touring shaped their perspective on collaboration and authenticity. From songwriting dynamics to the evolution of their sound, this episode offers a raw and funny look inside one of Vancouver's most original indie acts.

If you love honest music talk, creative chaos, and behind-the-scenes insights from Canadian artists — hit play.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:29 The Completely Random Formation of the Band

07:10 Pro Wrestling Dreams Distracting from the Music

09:47 Why Touring is the Best Experience of their Life

13:55 The New Variation in their Sound

20:09 Visual Storytelling & 'Murdery' Music Videos

25:14 Themes and Messages in Their Music

Kenn and Dave dive deep with Jonathan Simkin into the evolving music industry, exploring the challenges of staying relevant in a fast-changing digital world.

They look ahead to the new content coming from Armchair Cynics, insights into the effort to launch the band in the 2000s, and why there is a growing and niche fanbase building for them and other classic rock bands. 

Hear candid & funny stories and insights from two seasoned musicians navigating today's landscape.