Chewing the Gristle with Greg Koch – Details, episodes & analysis

Dave Hill seamlessly blends virtuosic guitar playing with razor-sharp comedy, creating an entirely unique performance experience that defies categorization. In this captivating conversation with Greg Koch, Dave reveals the unexpected path that led him from his Cleveland roots as a rock musician to becoming a multifaceted comedian, author, and performer in New York City.

The heart of Dave's artistic evolution came when he discovered audiences found genuine humor in his guitar prowess. "When I realized that people were laughing at guitar solos—not in a mocking way—I started doing things like tapping," Dave explains. This revelation transformed his approach, allowing him to stretch 10 minutes of material into 20 while "getting laughs in different ways" and developing his signature style of berating his backing musicians between impressive solos.

What makes Dave's performances particularly fascinating is his "Chuck Berry style" approach to working with local musicians. Often meeting his backing band just hours (or sometimes minutes) before showtime, he transforms this unpredictability into comedic gold. Whether performing with legendary musicians like Benmont Tench from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers or with drummers who "own drums at best," Dave embraces the chaos as part of his art form.

The conversation drifts through numerous fascinating detours, from their shared Catholic upbringings to the unpredictable nature of social media virality. Dave shares stories about opening for Tenacious D in arenas, writing four books, and crafting the theme song for Last Week Tonight with John Oliver with his band Valley Lodge. Through it all, his creative philosophy remains refreshingly simple: "You really can only entertain yourself... anytime you're thinking 'what do people want,' that's not part of the equation."

Follow Dave on social media for his hilarious "fake commercials" and check out his band Valley Lodge for a taste of his musical side. As Dave puts it: "I'm feral, this is what I do... now I just have to ride it out until I die, because that's the only option really."

Seth Rosenbloom, the fiery young blues guitarist from Massachusetts, brings his wealth of musical knowledge and performing experience to the Chewing the Gristle podcast. What begins as a gear chat about Two Rock amplifiers quickly evolves into a fascinating exploration of musical authenticity and the hard realities of making a living as a performing musician.

When Seth discovered his prized 1956 Stratocaster at Lark Street Music, it changed his entire perspective on the instrument. "It's not as bright as I associated with maple neck Strats," he explains, highlighting how vintage instruments often defy our modern expectations. The same revelation occurred when he first played genuine 1950s Les Pauls with their bell-like clarity, so different from the heavier, woofier sound of later models. These insights reveal how our perceptions of iconic instruments are often shaped by mass-produced versions rather than the originals that created their legendary status.

The conversation takes a compelling turn as Seth shares his journey from metal-loving teenager to blues guitarist. A pivotal moment came when his mother, hoping to discourage his musical aspirations, took him to see an up-and-coming blues player at a small jazz club - Joe Bonamassa. Rather than dissuading Seth, the experience ignited his passion for blues guitar. With his father's cautious blessing (himself a professional classical musician), Seth eventually dropped out of high school to pursue music full-time, a decision that shaped his career path.

What truly sets this episode apart is the candid discussion about the business realities musicians face. From the challenge of finding good booking agents to the economics of small venues, Seth and Greg pull back the curtain on aspects of performing that fans rarely consider. "Getting a record deal is almost easy in comparison to getting a decent booking agent," Greg notes, while Seth reveals why he consistently performs better in seated venues than standing rock clubs.

Ready to discover how professional musicians navigate the modern industry while staying true to their artistic vision? Subscribe now and join us for more authentic conversations with the most interesting players in music today.

What happens when a passion for blues guitar, a serendipitous encounter, and a love for cold pizza collide? You get the legendary Buddy Whittington! Join us for an unforgettable conversation with the Texas blues guitar powerhouse and former member of John Mayall's Blues Breakers. Buddy shares the incredible story of how he landed a 15-year gig with the Blues Breakers, his unique morning rituals, and his humorous attempts to stay healthy. We also dive into his admiration for guitar legends like Clapton, Peter Green, and Mick Taylor, making this chat a treasure trove for blues enthusiasts.

But that's not all. This episode is packed with updates on our musical journey, from our thrilling experience opening for ZZ Top to the bittersweet retirement of our 90-year-old bandmate. Discover the behind-the-scenes stories of our home studio setup during COVID and the amusing family dynamics of music practice. Plus, get an inside look at my daughter Isla's budding music career and our collaboration on her new record, providing a glimpse into our family's musical adventures.

For the gearheads, we’ve got an in-depth chat about vintage guitars and amps, featuring the wisdom of Dr. Z and the importance of guitar maintenance. Hear about our favorite axes, the evolving music industry, and the modern musician's toolkit. We also celebrate the legacy of ZZ Top, delve into memories of legendary Blues Breakers guitarist hangouts, and explore the practicalities of touring with backline equipment. From the camaraderie of iconic musicians to the challenges of balancing family and career, this episode has something for everyone. Don't miss it!

Eric has won Blues Rock Artist of the Year for the last 2 years, but he has been a force in the Blues scene since he released his first solo record at 16. Greg and Eric catch up about Eric's unusual style of left-handed playing, and of course their mutual love of all things Jimi Hendrix!

2:17 - Eric’s excitement with the near completion of his new record
6:14 - How Eric derived his chordal style of playing, and developing his voice as a left-handed player
8:23 - Gospel music - the approach, the chords, the “moves”, and the soul behind it all
13:27 - Eric, the Experience Hendrix, and the influence of Jimi Hendrix
20:13 - Improvisation, and the deep well of inspiration and authenticity that can be found through it
23:47 - Eric’s hopes and plans for the future as a musician and player

Total Length: 32:48

From gigs with Michael Jackson to Jeff Beck, Jennifer Batten's technical prowess and unique musical signature have cemented her place as one of the world's most compelling guitarists. She breaks it all down with Greg, talking about her entire career!

6:07 - Jennifer’s decision to move from Los Angeles to Oregon
8:45 - The story of Jennifer’s first tour, and the glory of Elvis impersonators
11:55 - Jennifer’s early years - from growing up in New York to moving to Southern California, and the influence of her father’s obsession with jazz
23:43 - How Jennifer developed her two-handed tapping technique, and how she viewed her future while attending GIT during the era of early Fusion music.
32:58 - The road to getting the gig with Michael Jackson, playing on the “Bad” Tour
42:44 - Meeting with her idol Jeff Beck during the “Bad” Tour in the UK, and how they linked up to work together afterward
57:43 - What the future holds for Jennifer

Total Length: 64:32

Jeff talks guitars with Greg! You know him from Curb Your Enthusiasm, Arrested Development, and The Goldbergs, but did you also know that Jeff Garlin is a six-string aficionado? Jeff shares his hilarious perspective with Greg on all things guitars, comedy, and Covid in this gristle-filled hour of mirth and delight.

4:02 - Jeff’s thoughts on gigging during COVID, how it relates to him as a stand-up comedian, and his philosophy regarding his favorite guitars
11:38 - A day in the life of Jeff’s acting schedule on set
14:01 - Jeff’s guitar collection, including the new Fender 70th Anniversary Broadcaster
18:24 - Jeff’s new show with guitarist Jimmy Vivino on Gibson TV
21:31 - The Telecaster: one of the mightiest axes of all time
25:24 - Comedy, “cancel culture”, and professional authenticity
29:13 - When and how developed his obsession with the guitar, and who in Jeff’s entertainment circle is also secretly a guitar-nut
39:20 - The allure of creativity-enhancing substance as a guitar player, and sobriety
44:40 - Why does politics have to be such a sticky subject?  Just spread light and love!

Total Length: 61:04

You have heard Robbie McIntosh even if you don't know it. Maybe it was that perfect guitar solo on "Middle of the Road" by the Pretenders, or perhaps on a Paul McCartney record, or in the band at a John Mayer concert. Robbie has long been the secret touring/studio guitar-weapon of many of the world's finest, including Norah Jones, Mark Knopfler, Rod Stewart, Josh Groban, and Tori Amos. Today he talks guitars with Greg!

7:52 - Robbie’s time with Paul McCartney, and Greg’s personal excitement having been a long-time follower of Robbie’s career
17:11 - Robbie’s career - from playing with The Pretenders to John Mayer
26:35 - A shared affinity for resonator guitars
30:09 - Growing up in the UK, and Robbie’s earliest days as a guitar player - from jazz to blues and everything in between
42:26 - When your personal musical influences become your compatriots and peers
54:54- Gear! Favorite amps, guitars, and pedals.
56:42 - What is Robbie currently up to?

Total Length: 62:39aw

Playing 7-string guitars long before it was cool, Charlie Hunter is well known as a singular, powerful voice on the guitar. Hybrid guitars are his thing - he's known for improvising flawless bass and guitar lines simultaneously, all in the name of creating great music. Greg and Charlie talk about his early days, lessons with Joe Satriani, time with Michael Franti, and of course his gear!

4:12 - Charlie’s decision to move his family from New York / New Jersey down to North Carolina 
6:01 - Roaming around the country in a family school bus - on the road from an early age - and growing up in Berkeley, CA
9:42 - The Berkeley guitar scene, taking lessons from Joe Satriani, and Charlie’s early musical inspirations
19:13 - Charlie’s decision to pursue music in Paris, France
31:51 - Moving back to the US, joining up with longtime friend Michael Franti, and eventually starting his own group
46:54 - The realities of being a working musician
56:29 - Charlie’s new upcoming record
59:35 - Guitars!

Total Length: 68:57

One of the best blues guitarists on the planet, Kirk Fletcher is a bright light in the current international blues scene. He built his reputation a member of the Fabulous Thunderbirds and the Mannish Boys, and he has frequently appeared on stages with Joe Bonamassa, Eros Ramazzotti, Josh Smith, and other heavyweights. Greg and Kirk talk about Kirk's history, gear, and how to find your own sound!


4:14 - Kirk’s musical history - from growing up in California under the umbrella of his father, the Pentecostal preacher, and his older brother, a guitar player 17 years his senior - and why he gravitated toward playing the blues
12:21 - The pentatonic scales - the true building blocks for developing your playing, and where guitar playing legends have made a name for themselves
14:43 - The early and formative years of gigging
19:42 - Kirk’s go-to (and favorite) guitars, amps, and pedals
26:52 - Future plans for Kirk in the time of COVID
29:42 - What has Kirk been listening to lately?
33:22 - The fun of finding new music and inspiration as kid in an era without the internet
38:22 - Why Kirk decided to move to Europe
44:09 - The importance of finding inspiration in reviving your personal repertoire, and the continued pursuit of learning
54:04 - A final word on Stratocasters, and the players who made them legend

Total Length: 69:27

Roscoe Beck is a legendary bassist, known for his work with Eric Johnson, Robben Ford, Leonard Cohen, The Dixie Chicks, his time with the band Passenger, and also his relationship with Stevie Ray Vaughn and Jimmie Vaughn. Greg and Roscoe talk about Jaco Pastorius, playing bass, and building relationships!

1:52 - Roscoe’s current gig with Eric Johnson, and how the two came to play together
10:08 - Something was in the water at North Texas State - from becoming fast friends with Jimmy Vaughn to sharing the stage with Stevie Ray at a local club
16:14 - Roscoe’s early days with the band Passenger, and his friendship with Jaco Pastorius
33:57 - Linking up with Leonard Cohen, and playing with him up until his passing
37:38 - Roscoe’s diverse style as a bass player, knowing when and how to be effective, and early influences
55:51 - Most importantly, music is about relationships - both with the music, and with the people

Total Length: 61:20