
In this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman sits down with members of Canadian band Ombra for a raw and insightful discussion. The conversation covers the band's new EP Night Terror, the evolution of music, the impact of social media and technology on society, mental health, and the redemptive power of music. The episode is packed with stories about legendary bands, personal anecdotes, and candid reflections on today's world, all underscored by Ombra's commitment to authenticity and positive messaging.Main Topics CoveredThe Canadian music scene and the legacy of trios like RushNavigating band member replacements and fan expectationsCriticism and evolution in music (Metallica, Linkin Park, Rush)The influence and toxicity of social media and technologyInsights behind Ombra’s EP Night Terror and its themesGenerational differences in social interaction and tech dependencyThe healing and bonding power of music and live showsThe importance of individuality and critical thinkingThe inclusive, supportive nature of the metal communityKey Discussions & StoriesCanadian Music and Legendary BandsReflections on why Canada produces so much great music, and the distinctiveness of powerful trios like Rush (00:29)Discussion on Annika Niles’ performance with Rush, and the challenge of filling Neil Peart’s shoes (01:22)Navigating Musical Evolution and Fan CriticismComparing how bands like Linkin Park and Slipknot dealt with new members and evolving sounds (03:05)Pipeman recounts stories of early Metallica and Slayer concerts, fan gatekeeping, and the nostalgia tied to "garage band" days (05:36)Social Media & Technology’s DownsideCritique of how social media and pervasive tech has eroded true interpersonal interaction (12:01)The rise of “anti-social” media, addiction to scrolling, and its psychological toll (13:09)Observations on how the news, politics, and constant connectivity fuel anxiety and division (14:46; 15:02)Mental Health, Escapism, and the Creative ProcessOmbra’s Night Terror EP as commentary on societal hysteria, social media addiction, perfectionism, and the collective desire to escape (10:32; 18:09)The value of music, surfing, and other forms of disconnection for managing overwhelm (21:24)The Power of Community and Live MusicThe personal and collective therapy found in jamming and improvisation (22:30)Stories of live shows, mosh pits, and the way music brings diverse people together (23:39; 37:01; 37:45)Debunking the stereotype of metalheads as aggressive outsiders—emphasizing their inclusivity and kindness (37:45)Final MessagesEncouragement to live authentically, pursue happiness, and reject online negativity (29:28)The importance of individuality, diversity, and respect for others’ choices (32:12)The world can learn from the acceptance and camaraderie found in the metal community (36:51; 37:45)Notable Quotes“Why would you want to stay a garage band? ...You learn your craft, you evolve, you get better. So you want to experiment and do other things.” — Pipeman(06:14)“We want listeners to be themselves, think for themselves, do what they love, do what they want to do with their time.” (29:28)“It’s our diversity that makes the world great, not our similarities.” (32:12)“Music is the best therapy—for you, the artist, and for me, the listener.” — Pipeman (23:35)“The more shows they play, the more experience she gets... just getting to sit behind that kit with those two up front... it’s just you and those songs.” (02:06)“Social media, the internet, the political leaders—none of them let us chill out and just step...
Sep 17
42 min

In this energetic episode, Pipeman sits down with Bob from KingCrown to discuss the vibrant French metal scene, KingCrown’s latest album "Moonfall," and what sets the band apart in the crowded world of metal. The conversation spans the evolution of metal in France, the band's approach to music and instrumentation, creative freedom, and the importance of authenticity in both original works and covers.Main Topics CoveredThe rise and roots of French metal and its international reputationInfluence of legendary metal bands and formative musical experiencesUnique instrumentation in KingCrown and their creative processThe evolution of KingCrown’s sound across different albumsThe importance of authenticity and creative freedom in musicThe collaborative support system behind KingCrown’s successThe power and artistry of reinterpretation in cover songsPromotion and insights on new album "Moonfall"Key Discussions & StoriesThe French Metal SceneDiscussion about France’s strong metal culture and its world-class festivals like Hellfest 00:35.Bob describes France as having a diverse metal scene, not just limited to rock-n-roll, and highlights the growth of festivals big and small 01:11, 02:20.Influences & Musical DiscoveryBoth speakers share stories about discovering iconic bands such as Metallica and Iron Maiden during their teenage years, which inspired their musical paths 06:01.Bob reminisces about getting his first classical guitar at age seven and how all KingCrown members have similar stories of early exposure to music 06:16.KingCrown’s Unique SoundBob emphasizes the band’s experimentation with different stringed instruments — mandolin, Turkish saz, Greek bouzouki, harp — to add flavor and richness to their music 08:35, 09:12.There’s a focus on teamwork and each member bringing their own distinct strengths to the band's creative process 09:59.Evolving Metal & Artistic FreedomDiscussion about the importance of unique, experimental sound in a genre that can often be formulaic 10:46, 11:30.Bob explains the band’s philosophy: true artistry is rooted in creative freedom, not just musicianship 14:01.Conversation about why evolving musically — rather than repeating oneself — is crucial for both listener and artist 13:13.Album Evolution: "Nova Atlantis" vs. "Moonfall"Detailed comparison between their last two albums, noting "Nova Atlantis"’s experimental and progressive tendencies vs. the bombastic, direct approach of "Moonfall" 12:21.Pipeman and Bob discuss how each album represents different facets of the band’s identity and creative ambitions 13:41.Cover Songs: Reinterpretation & AuthenticityReflections on what makes a great cover and why artists should aim to bring something new to any reinterpretation 15:20, 16:52.Anecdote about Dolly Parton’s version of "Stairway to Heaven" and the artistic respect between musicians 16:18.Band Brotherhood & Support SystemThe strong bond and friendship among band members is highlighted as essential for creativity and perseverance 21:08.Bob gives credit to managers, label partners, artists, and producers for helping KingCrown thrive 22:31, 23:46.Notable Quotes"Being an artist for me and my bandmates... is being free. If you're not free to create the music you want... I'm not sure you're really an artist." — Bob 14:01"Metal is all about experimentation anyway, always was. So, like, there shouldn't be any rules or formulas. Just make something different that makes you stand out." — Pipeman 11:03"Even a cover... you should bring something new, with a new sound, new interpretation, new mood to the song. That's the interest." — Bob 16:52"We tried to bring...
Sep 16
24 min

In this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman interviews Andrew from Metaladian, delving into the band's origins, creative process, and the personal stories behind their music. The conversation covers everything from Canadian metal roots to the technical side of metal music, generational influences, the cathartic nature of songwriting, and the darker sides of music and life experiences. The episode also features insights into Metaladian’s new album, multi-vocal approach, and the importance of authenticity in heavy music.Main Topics CoveredThe Origins of MetaladianAndrew's Canadian roots and musical journeyMoving across Canada and early exposure to metalJamming and early influences with his brotherMetaladian’s Musical EvolutionFrom teenage jams to classical guitar studiesBlending classical training with metal aggressionThe collaborative writing process with band membersThe Craft and Community of MetalThe misunderstood complexity and musicianship in metalGenerational differences and influences in the bandThe role of experimentation and unique sounds in metal’s historyTechnique & PracticeThe challenge of learning instruments as leftiesThe dedication and practice required in mastering instrumentsIncorporating diversity and multi-instrumentalismAlbum Deep DiveStructure and themes of Metaladian’s debut albumUsing personal and collective trauma as catharsisBreakdown of album acts and the narrative behind eachVocal Styles and Multi-Vocal ApproachThe power and depth brought by multiple vocalistsComparisons to bands like Origin, Spiritbox, and JinjerDiscussion on vocal technique and the evolution within metalLife’s Lessons and Overcoming AdversityStories of escaping toxic environments and cult-like figuresChanneling life challenges into creative outputThe positive impact of teaching music and inspiring othersResources and ConnectivityWhere to find Metaladian’s music, merch, and social mediaKey Discussions & StoriesEarly Metal Days & Moving AroundAndrew discusses his Ottawa birth, cross-country upbringing, and how family and travel influenced his music (01:04–01:17).Pipeman shares his journey from New Jersey to California and falling into the thriving LA metal scene of the '80s (01:29–01:58).Musical Beginnings and InfluencesThe brothers’ early jams, diving into AC/DC, Metallica, Megadeth, and the role of Much Music's Power Hour in discovering new bands (05:06–05:57).Nostalgia for seeing Metallica and Slayer's early shows and reflecting on scene evolution (06:00–06:47).The Writing and Recording ProcessDeveloping a three-album arc, writing harmonies on classical guitar, and the influence of disciplined study (09:02–09:46).Bringing in younger bassist Dustin Smith for fresh energy (09:37).Lefties in MusicBoth Andrew and Pipeman share their unique challenges and strategies as left-handed musicians (15:05–16:05), including adapting to right-handed instruments and developing ambidextrous skills.Personal Story Behind the AlbumThe cathartic process, themes of victimhood, depression, cults, and psychic confrontation (25:37–29:46).Using songwriting as a tool for healing and reclaiming emotions (32:04–32:19).Teaching and the Value of MusicAndrew's role as a music teacher, witnessing students' growth, and the universal benefits of learning music or art (32:31–33:05).Notable Quotes“Metal is a derivative of classical music anyway.” – Pipeman (10:54)“It seemed to just grow from note to note, instead of riff to riff.” – Andrew...
Sep 11
34 min

In this episode of "The Adventures of the Pipeman" on W4CY Radio, Pipeman sits down with Tim Montana, Montana native and musician, at Rocklahoma. The conversation covers wild touring experiences, unique memorabilia (including a ZZ Top sparkly chainsaw), perspectives on Montana’s culture and scenery, Tim Montana’s latest album, star-studded collaborations, and tales from the road.Main Topics CoveredUnique interview artifacts: The story behind a sparkly ZZ Top chainsawTouring mishaps and cancellations due to weather and wildfire smokeMontana’s scenic attractions and cultural highlightsMilitary charity events and upcoming tour plansThe creative process and guest features on Tim Montana’s new album, “Entire State of Tim Montana”Collaborations with music and film legendsKey Discussions & StoriesThe Sparkly ZZ Top ChainsawTim Montana brings a chainsaw to the interview, sparking curiosity from Pipeman 00:38Chainsaw backstory: Gifted to ZZ Top by Jesse James Dupree, never used, sparkly black, with a commemorative emblem 01:13Origin: Presented as an end-of-tour gift during ZZ Top’s Antenna or Recycler tour 01:53Notable connections: Billy Gibbons, Jesse James Dupree, and future plans for the unique artifactFestival & Tour ChallengesTim Montana’s “redemption show” at Rocklahoma after a previous festival performance was canceled mid-intro due to sirens and severe weather 02:38Other tour woes: Cancelled shows with Creed and Bush due to smoke in Minneapolis; experiences with weather delays at events like Welcome to Rockville and Incarceration 03:21, 04:48Tales of perseverance and the impact of natural disasters on touring musiciansMontana: Culture, History, and TourismRecommendations for Montana visitors: West River Club, Southwest Montana, reservations, powwows, Helena, Virginia City, Butte 05:45Emphasis on Native American culture and Western history in Montana’s way of life 06:03Reflections on growing up amidst Montana’s “Big Sky Country” 07:18Upcoming Projects & New AlbumTim Montana discusses the release of “Entire State of Tim Montana,” concert tours with Alter Bridge and Creed, and shooting clay pigeons for a military charity event 07:46Insight into the album: Stories from Tim Montana’s life, original tracks, and covers (including Katy Perry’s “Roar” for his daughters) 08:38Star CollaborationsMusic features: Billy Gibbons, Slash, Jerry Cantrell, Royal Lynn 08:52Album introductions by Martin Sheen, Charlie Sheen, and Robert Patrick 08:58Memorable project: Involving Native American drummers and singers from the Crow Reservation on a track and in the accompanying video 09:16Notable Quotes“I have never seen a sparkly chainsaw.” – Pipe Man 01:09“I gave that to Billy. The company Jomzard made it for him in '94. It was either the Antenna or Recycler tour. And this was the end of tour gift.” – Tim Montana 01:48“My redemption show.” – Tim Montana on returning to Rocklahoma 02:37"My wife and I catered for all the firefighters, 260 to-go meals a day." – Tim Montana on supporting his local Montana community during wildfires 05:12"If that doesn’t give you goosebumps, then I don’t know what to tell you." – Tim Montana on the Crow Agency collaboration 09:27"My music's mediocre, but my vibes are fire." – Tim Montana 09:45Resources & Links MentionedAlbum: "Entire State of Tim Montana" by Tim MontanaWest River Club (Southwest Montana)Montana State Heritage Center (Helena)Crow Agency/Reservation and the Crow collaboration music videoW4CY Radio and The Adventures of the PipemanDon’t miss the energetic tales and...
Sep 7
10 min

Pipeman sits down with Cam and Mark from the Australian rock band Jet at Rocklahoma. The conversation unfolds into lively banter about cultural quirks, Australia versus the US music scenes, wildlife, legendary concerts, and memorable touring stories. The band reflects on their return to music, inspired by an invitation from Bruce Springsteen, and their experiences both on- and off-stage.Main Topics CoveredJet’s first impressions of Rocklahoma and OklahomaAustralian landscapes and underground homes in Coober PedySurfing culture, terminology differences, and where Jet’s members grew upComparison of music scenes between Australia and the USThe evolving nature of the industry: A&R reps, streaming, and festival circuitsEncounters with wildlife: sharks, spiders, crocodiles, and the infamous koala factJet’s history and relationship with Bruce SpringsteenTouring experiences and standout venuesInteractions with fans, celebrity encounters, and festival lifeHow to connect with Jet onlineKey Discussions & StoriesAustralian vs. American Life & LingoThe vast differences in landscape between Australia and the US, with both sharing a sense of expansive, wild spaces (00:39).The unique underground homes in Coober Pedy, built to escape the intense heat, and accidental opal mining while expanding houses (01:24).Surf culture: local brands like Rip Curl, differences in terminology such as “grommet” for young surfers, and how meanings differ between countries (02:02, 02:31).Music Scene ReflectionsBeing part of the fabric of Australian rock, including Jet’s place in the Australian Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (02:59).The warm, ongoing relationship and success Jet has experienced playing in the US with platinum records and festival circuits (03:14).Modern music industry changes: more direct-to-fan interaction vs. old-school A&R “gatekeeping” (04:12), and both the pros and cons of streaming platforms like Spotify (04:30).Noting the explosion of Australian bands playing US festivals, and the signature Australian rock sound—mention of Amyl and the Sniffers and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard having bigger followings in the US than home (03:36, 04:07).Wildlife EncountersPipeman and the band exchange hair-raising stories about sharks and dangerous animals in both Florida and Australia (06:08, 06:13).Discussion on the Australian redback and US black widow spiders, and the camaraderie of living in regions with “all the poisonous shit” (06:10, 06:13).Notable, humorous digression about koalas having chlamydia, their odd sounds, and the myth versus reality of Australian wildlife (09:20).Legendary Concerts & Jet’s HistoryDetailed story about how Bruce Springsteen’s invitation was the catalyst for Jet’s reunion (12:08).What it’s like touring with “the Boss,” meeting E Street Band members, and experiencing the family-like treatment backstage (13:19).The legendary Asbury Park venue in New Jersey, Springsteen’s cultural influence, and personal touring anecdotes (11:23, 11:36).Touring & Festival LifeJet’s route post-Rocklahoma: upcoming gigs in St. Louis and Kansas City, excitement about exploring new cities (10:00).The realities of festival life: long days, lack of sleep and food, and the thrill of performing for fans (15:32, 15:59).Notable Quotes“Australia is our home country, so there’s always a certain amount of ownership that the people have over you there…we’re part of the fabric, you know.” (02:59)“We didn’t see a lot of [Bruce] because it was the end of the world tour…every day you’d see teams of physios, massage tables…just people to get him through.” (13:03)“You could tell...
Sep 7
16 min

In this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman sits down with Matt, Gage, and Tommy from the band Cirkus at Rocklahoma Festival. The conversation dives into festival experiences, musical influences, memorable music trivia, and the band’s journey from formation to planning their next album. The episode is filled with festival stories, classic rock anecdotes, band trivia, and advice for aspiring musicians.Main Topics CoveredRocklahoma Festival Atmosphere and Campground LifeInfluences and Inspirations Behind CirkusClassic Rock and Metal History & TriviaThe Band’s Journey and Advice to MusiciansUpcoming Music, Tours, and Social Media InfoKey Discussions & StoriesLife at RocklahomaMatt and the band share their experiences camping at Rocklahoma, comparing it to Vegas, with wild stories and unique campground traditions 00:32.Festival camaraderie, including encounters with longtime attendees and memorable camp setups like “Buses, Boobs, and Buttholes” 01:43.Musical InfluencesMatt discusses being inspired by Randy Rhoads (Ozzy Osbourne’s legendary guitarist) and Zakk Wylde, reflecting on the sacrifices required to hone his craft 02:31.Other influences cited include Phil Anselmo, Ivan Moody, Corey Taylor, and classic artists like Freddie Mercury and Paul McCartney 05:05.Additional band members mention drumming influences: Lars Ulrich, Nick Menza, The Rev, Joey Jordison, and Vinnie Paul 09:08.Stories & Music TriviaPipeman recounts sneaking out as a teenager to see Ozzy Osbourne and unexpectedly discovering his neighbor was Ozzy’s promoter, receiving exclusive music swag and tapes 02:45.Multiple rounds of rock and Beatles trivia—such as Paul McCartney becoming the Beatles’ bassist by chance, and the connection between "Helter Skelter" and Charles Manson 06:46, 08:02.Discussion around Metallica’s early days, including Lars Ulrich’s entrepreneurial role in the band’s formation and impact on music industry practices 12:10.Band JourneyCirkus formed just under two and a half years ago, with Rocklahoma being a milestone the members didn’t anticipate achieving so soon 15:00.The band encourages aspiring musicians to simply start creating and seize opportunities 15:00.Upcoming Music & ShowsAnnouncement of new music being written post-festival season, with plans for another album next year. Expect a heavier, more experimental sound 16:14.Upcoming performances at Rock the Equinox (Stigler, Oklahoma) and The Rail (Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas) 15:49.Notable Quotes“It’s like Vegas, man. Whatever happens in the ground stays in the ground.” 00:43“He’s definitely like the number one reason I started playing guitar, as well as Zakk Wylde, who’s playing tomorrow.” – Matt on Randy Rhoads 02:31“That’s the sacrifice you make to be a great musician, you know, and to do what you love.” – Pipeman 04:42“Literally no ceiling to how far you can go... two years ago I wouldn’t have thought that we’d be here right now getting interviewed.” – Matt 15:14“To me, heavy metal is experimental, you know? That’s what created all this is experimenting.” – Pipeman 16:36Resources & Links MentionedCirkus Socials & Music:Facebook: Cirkus (“C-I-R-K-U-S”) 14:19Instagram: X_CircusOfficial 14:35TikTok: Circus 14:37Available on: Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, Instagram music/reels, YouTube 14:43Upcoming Shows:Rock the Equinox, Stigler, Oklahoma (October) 15:49The Rail, Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (in 2 weeks) 15:56Referenced Artists/Bands: Living Colour, Ozzy Osbourne, Metallica, Queen, The Beatles, Slipknot,...
Sep 7
17 min

This episode features an energetic conversation between Pipeman and members of the band Plush, recorded at Rocklahoma Festival. The discussion dives into the wild culture of Rocklahoma's campgrounds, handling extreme festival heat, the inspiration and creative processes behind Plush’s new album "Mass Hysteria," and thoughts on growth, authenticity, and breaking genre boundaries in music.Main Topics CoveredPlush’s history and experiences at Rocklahoma FestivalThe wild and unique campground culture at RocklahomaSurviving and performing in extreme festival heatBehind the scenes of Plush’s upcoming album "Mass Hysteria"Artistic evolution and outgrowing older songsBreaking down music industry stereotypes and embracing diverse musical tastesDetails on Plush’s new album pre-sale, release date, and social mediaThe importance of authenticity and self-expression in artistryKey Discussions & StoriesPlush at RocklahomaPlush celebrates their third year at Rocklahoma, reflecting on the festival’s unique after-hours scene and crazy campground stories, including a “strip club campsite” and makeshift bars offering free shots in exchange for wild dares and Mardi Gras-style bead giveaways 00:43 – 03:05.The group discusses the camaraderie and creativity among festival campers, including custom-made bracelets and themed school buses like “Buses, Boobs, and Buttholes” 03:07.Performance ChallengesThe challenges and delirium of playing live in extreme heat, with stories of a 120-degree stage and ill-advised wardrobe choices 05:54 – 07:46.The band shares how performing helps them “dissociate the heat out,” and how training in hot home studios conditions them for festival gigs 06:26."Mass Hysteria" – New Album & Creative GrowthInsights into their heaviest music yet on "Mass Hysteria," inspired by the chaos of the current world 08:27 – 09:01.Reflections on maturing as musicians, outgrowing older material, and the excitement of performing new songs that better represent their current artistry 09:13 – 10:41.The drive to make music that’s more true to their own tastes—heavier, more authentic, reflecting what they actually listen to 12:13.Breaking Stereotypes & Genre BoundariesHumorous anecdotes about artists like Vanilla Ice and Christina Aguilera secretly being metalheads, challenging perceptions of what artists “should” sound like 13:53.A candid critique of genre gatekeeping, with passionate discussion about the value of musical diversity and rejecting narrow-mindedness in music communities 15:57 – 16:52.Upcoming Album & Ways to ConnectAnnouncement of Plush’s "Mass Hysteria" album release on September 18th and details of pre-sale bundles 17:17.Socials and website for following Plush and accessing pre-sales:Website: plushrocks.netInstagram & X: @PlushRocksFacebook: Plush OfficialNotable Quotes"Time flies when you're having fun at Rocklahoma.""There is actually a strip club campsite that when the main— like tomorrow night after the headliner, everybody will be lined up out there.""You either gotta show your boob or boobs or your butthole. It doesn't matter if you're female, male, whatever, non-binary. It doesn't matter what you are.""It's definitely one of the craziest crap I've ever seen at a festival is Rocklahoma, in the best way possible.""It's hard to sit there and perform the songs that you don't really feel connected to anymore.""This is what we want to do. We should go heavier because, like, this is more authentic to who we are anyway.""We need to stop all the bullshit and just...
Sep 7
18 min

In this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman sits down with the band She Hates Me Not at Rocklahoma. The conversation covers the band's experience playing their first Rocklahoma set, the challenges of performing in extreme heat, musical inspirations, concert memories, and upcoming projects. The group also pays tribute to influential bands and local Oklahoma artists, sharing stories from backstage to the early days of heavy metal.Main Topics CoveredPlaying for the first time at Rocklahoma and dealing with the heatHow She Hates Me Not landed a spot at the festivalPersonal concert experiences that inspired the band membersMemories and stories about iconic bands like Slayer and MetallicaDiscussion of favorite bands to tour with (dream and realistic picks)Upcoming shows and new album informationShoutouts to local Oklahoma bands and scene community spiritReflections on the legacy and community of heavy musicKey Discussions & StoriesPlaying Rocklahoma & On-Stage HeatPerforming on the Rocklahoma stage was a major accomplishment for the band—especially surviving the extreme heat without a heat stroke 00:35.Pipe Man expresses admiration for their ability to play under such intense conditions and recalls that even major musicians have succumbed to heat stroke at festivals 00:41.Getting to RocklahomaShe Hates Me Not's manager, known as "the Horse", played a vital role in booking them for Rocklahoma, persistently reaching out until the opportunity came through 01:24.Pre-Show MindsetThe band shares the pressure and excitement leading up to the festival: "Don't fuck up" was the main thought, and the importance of delivering their best with lots of new faces in the audience 02:00.Treating every show as important as the last and keeping a routine, regardless of the size of the event 02:18.First Concerts & Musical InspirationBand members recount their first life-changing concerts, including Foo Fighters, Alanis Morissette, Malevolence, and Code Orange 03:11.Cade shares that his initial inspiration came from watching DJ performances online, specifically Marshmello and Skrillex, but ultimately gravitated toward the drums 04:35.Metal Stories & LegacyPipeman reminisces about seeing Slayer and Metallica at their earliest shows and meeting Dave Mustaine before the term "thrash" even existed 08:26.Anecdotes about old record stores, meeting Brian Slagel, and owning rare Metallica memorabilia underline the deep roots and rich history of the metal community 09:39.Dream Tours & InfluencesThe band lists crossover, hardcore, and metal bands they'd love to tour with, including Mindforce, Drain, Power Trip, Guilt Trip, and Judiciary. They hint at an upcoming show with Judiciary that’s already scheduled 14:00.Upcoming Shows & New AlbumSeptember 16: Oklahoma City with Judiciary at 89th StreetOctober 3: Stigler, OK at Rock the EquinoxNovember 14: Tulsa, OK at the VanguardMarch: Los Angeles at the Whisky a Go Go with MarauderA new album, recorded at Bricktop Recording in Chicago, set to release early next year 15:24.Community ShoutoutsStrong support for the Oklahoma scene, shouting out bands like Leash, Dirty Work, Squelching, Flashpoint, Inerium, Diced, and Taker 16:27.Appreciation for studio collaborators Andy Nelson and Pete Grossman at Bricktop Recording 17:42.Looking to the FutureWhen asked when they’ll headline Rocklahoma, a realistic estimate of 3–5 years is given 18:40.Emphasis on gratitude, hard work, and commitment to growing as a band 16:15.Notable Quotes“Don’t fuck up. Yeah, that’s what I...
Sep 7
19 min

In this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman connects with High June at Rocklahoma Festival. The discussion dives into the band’s origins, unique approach to genre, experiences at major festivals, their musical journey, and what’s ahead for their tour calendar. Listeners get an inside look into how High June’s diverse backgrounds and collective passion fuel their chemistry and creative process.Main Topics CoveredHigh June’s background and formation at East Carolina UniversityTheir first-time experience playing at Rocklahoma FestivalThe significance of playing diverse festivals and the band's musical evolutionRejecting labels and embracing genre freedom in music creationStories of personal inspiration and falling in love with musicInsights into their writing process, practice habits, and band chemistryDetailed upcoming tour and collaborationsDream bands to tour withSocial links and how to support the bandKey Discussions & StoriesLanding at RocklahomaHigh June expresses their excitement at being selected for Rocklahoma and describes the crowd’s unexpected energy, with fans crowd surfing and forming mosh pits even though they were the first band playing that day 00:32.The band notes Rocklahoma’s hospitality, sharing that the crew treated them like headliners and contributed to an outstanding environment 01:17.The High June Origin StoryMembers hail from across North Carolina but united at East Carolina University, initially starting as a cover band before evolving into original music once James and Jack joined the group 06:02.Focus on their ability to gel through embracing differences and practicing intensely—sometimes six days a week for six hours a day 06:53.On Labels and Musical FreedomThe band and Pipeman agree on the drawbacks of genre labels, with a firm belief in music as a spectrum. The aim is not to repeat themselves and ensure every song tells its own story 03:42.Members emphasize they never wanted listeners to feel like every song sounded the same—diversity in songwriting is a cornerstone 04:40.Musical Influences & StoriesPersonal stories about falling in love with music: watching Nirvana Unplugged, being inspired by parental figures, and listening to classic rock in the car with family 09:46.A humorous trivia exchange about Jane’s Addiction and the meaning behind “dogs singing” 12:17.The Work Behind the MusicMembers reflect on dedication required to excel in music—practicing for hours, learning from each other, and building chemistry both personally and professionally 14:10.Discussion on how technical perfection isn’t everything; passion and creativity are just as important (calling out Nirvana’s impact on this philosophy) 14:37.What’s Next for High JuneAfter Rocklahoma, the band is headed to Dallas-Fort Worth for a show with Cole Barnhill, followed by a headlining tour in October on the East Coast and then supporting Dexter and the Moonrocks for the rest of the year 05:17.Notable Quotes“The crew overall, man, everybody's just been so…hospitable. You wouldn't even know that we were the first band of the day. They're treating us like we're the headliners.” 01:17“Labels in general are stupid. Nothing's black and white. It's all gray… even music is the biggest spectrum ever.” 03:42“We never wanted to be one of those bands where you listen to one song and then you've heard the entire catalog already. Every song to be its own thing.” 04:40“The biggest thing is that, like, we love each other. Like, that's the bottom line.” 08:30“You have to put those 10,000 hours in.” 14:28Resources & Links MentionedFind High...
Sep 7
17 min

In this episode of the Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman chats with Josh Todd, frontman of Buckcherry, live at Rocklahoma. With over 27 years in the music industry, Josh Todd reflects on the band's evolution, the importance of passion in music, and shares stories about life outside of music—including his love for surfing and spending time with his son. The discussion dives deep into maintaining longevity and relevance as a band, the importance of camaraderie amongst band members, and how rock and roll connects people across cultures.Main Topics CoveredBuckcherry’s long-standing career and performance history at RocklahomaHow the band has evolved musically and as individuals over 27 yearsMaintaining passion, creativity, and fun in the music industryThe impact of internal relationships and communication within the bandThe universal language and healing power of musicSurfing and family as outlets and sources of inspirationThe power of live performances and Buckcherry’s commitment to touringVocal care, routines, and tips for longevity as a singerKey Discussions & StoriesBand Longevity and EvolutionJosh Todd recounts Buckcherry's 27-year journey, noting, "Everything's a blur at this point... I just show up one day at a time" 00:32.Reflects on gaining knowledge about the music business, touring, and songwriting: "I've just gotten better" 01:24.Discusses the necessity of evolution: “Old school fans... want you to stay like you were back then. But I think as a musician, you want to learn your craft, experiment" 01:28.Passion and Band DynamicsJosh Todd stresses remaining passionate about performing: "The thing that hasn't changed is I'm still very passionate about songs and performing" 01:46.The importance of liking your bandmates: “Bands are like that when they don't like each other, you know? ... We've made a lot of changes over the years so that we continue to stay excited about being around each other" 02:14.Communication in Music and LifePipe Man and Josh Todd highlight communication as crucial: “Communication is key” 02:39.Music as a form of therapy and communication: “It’s the best therapy there is for you, the artist, and me, the listener” 02:55.The Global Power of MusicJosh Todd shares stories of international fans connecting with Buckcherry’s music regardless of language: “People that don't even know the English language will react to our songs in a way that's very touching" 03:32.Talks about Japanese fans using rock and roll to learn English: "They like rock and roll so much... because it helps them learn English" 04:06.Life Outside of Music: Surfing and FamilyPassion for surfing: “I've been surfing since I was a kid... now that's our thing, we go to a spot in Newport Beach where I surfed as a teenager" 04:39.Shared experiences and road trips with his son, listening to music and discussing records 05:27.The calming, grounding effect of surfing after touring: “That’s my chilling out, is going out and getting on the water” 07:36.Josh Todd's journey from aspiring pro surfer to musician: “I wanted to be a pro surfer before I got into music... I surfed religiously" 07:49.Dedication to the Craft & Live PerformanceCommitment to new music and touring: “We put out a great rock and roll record every 2 years, and we tour for 2 years on a record cycle. And we're gonna continue to do it until we don't want to do it anymore" 09:28.Consistency in record cycles compared to bands with long gaps between albums 09:46.Vocal Health and Performance TipsJosh Todd discusses his vocal routine, sharing advice from coach Mark Baxter and emphasizing warm-ups and daily vocalizing 10:45.“The...
Sep 7
13 min
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