Show notes
The conversation focused on K-Man & The 45s' experiences as a touring ska band, their perspective on the music industry, and memorable stories from their time on the road. The discussion explored challenges of international touring, the cyclical nature of music trends, and the band’s excitement around new music and upcoming tours. Personal anecdotes, humor, and a shared love for the DIY punk ethos threaded throughout the episode, set against the backdrop of Warped Tour’s return to Montreal.Main Topics CoveredBorder crossing stories and travel woes for bandsThe return of MySpace and nostalgia for earlier music platformsThe importance of “road work” and building a genuine fanbaseGenerational perspectives on ska and musicianshipLife on tour: the realities behind the perceived “dream"Favorite and least favorite tour stops in CanadaThe unpredictability and camaraderie of live performancesMusic industry changes post-9/11 and commentary on bordersThe culture and vibe of Berlin and the German punk/alternative sceneExcitement for upcoming releases and tour plansDIY ethics vs. corporate involvement in music festivalsSupport for the Sophie Lancaster FoundationKey Discussions & StoriesTouring and Border CrossingsOne concept discussed was the challenges faced at the US border, including being detained, interrogated, and accused of drug trafficking, which led to a show in Buffalo where the band had to borrow instruments and perform immediately upon arrival 08:18.The conversation also touched on the nostalgia for border travel prior to heightened security measures, reflecting on the ease of crossing in earlier decades 09:03.Road Life and Building a FanbaseA key theme that emerged was the value of consistent touring and the authenticity it creates for performers and fans. The band contrasted this with the fleeting fame of viral internet artists, stressing the importance of grassroots connections and live shows 02:10.Several points were raised, including tales of overnight drives through hazardous conditions to make gigs, and the supportiveness of fans—such as when a bar in Thunder Bay kept its doors open until the band arrived at 1:30 AM, and everyone pitched in to unload gear and party until the early morning 07:26.Scenes, Cities, and CommunityThe discussion explored the unique cultural flavor of cities like Montreal, Golden BC, Jasper, Whistler, and especially Gaspésie, which was described as “our own private BC in Quebec” 04:42.Berlin was celebrated for its open-mindedness, vibrant alternative music scene, and progressive atmosphere, with stories of packed shows and all-ages punk crowds 10:28.Humorous and Heartfelt MomentsThe reality of touring—sharing cramped hotel rooms, enduring long drives, and embracing both the glamour and grit—was a recurring thread 03:05.A memorable moment included a live shirt swap to honor the Sophie Lancaster Foundation, which supports punks and goths facing discrimination 13:23.Notable Quotes“When you do our plan, this has always been since day one, it’s just road work… You have a built-in crowd every time, guaranteed good time.” 02:30“If you haven't lived that, you just haven't lived.” 03:12“If you’re not falling, you’re not learning.” – on falling while skateboarding and learning through mistakes, paralleling life on tour 06:58“Every night has to have at least one story, right?” 07:06“Corporate America, you’re not invited to our party.” 12:10Resources & Links MentionedNew Album Announcement:K-Man & The 45s' new album drops October 9th. Catch their first single on Stomp Records, August 25th.