ArtsPerforming ArtsMusicExplicit

Car Con Carne

James VanOsdol

Hyperlocal Chicago podcast hosted by long-running local media personality James VanOsdol. Guests include musicians, restaurateurs, brewers, authors, actors and interesting persons of note. More often than not, the interviews happen in James's car.

Play

Open in

22 episodes
Avg 23 min
English

Episodes 22

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

#1140
Tuesday · 21 min
Breakups and breakthrough songwriting moments - Savanna Ruth (Episode 1140)
I sat down with singer-songwriter Savanna Ruth outside Dunkin' Donuts over iced caffeinated beverages to talk about her forthcoming album, The Baseball Diaries. After years performing as Burr Oak, Savanna decided to wipe the slate clean and step into a new creative chapter under her own name. We talk about the breakthrough moment of writing "Bad Thoughts," turning the raw fallout of a major breakup into vulnerable and relatable songs, and why artists have to give themselves permission to change direction entirely. We also dive into what it was like working with co-producers Scott Lucas (Local H) and Blake Smith (Fig Dish, Caviar), alongside drummer Jason Batchko. Savanna breaks down how that powerhouse team pushed her to dig deeper, sharpen her lyrics, and deliver an unapologetic record. Plus, we get into the Jim Carroll inspiration behind the album title and why putting the full record out on vinyl via Easy Does It Records matters so much. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check them out at explodinghouseprinting.com!
#1139
August 20 · 23 min
The shapes of 'Wrath' - Zak and Alex of Bleached Cross (Episode 1139)
Chicago post-punk outfit Bleached Cross (Zak and Alex) joins James VanOsdol to break down their latest album, Wrath. Episode Highlights Radio Nostalgia & Cassette Tapes: Zak brings in his childhood box of handwritten cassette radio rips from late-'90s Q101 broadcasts, sharing early memories of recording tracks off the airwaves and attempting a fourth-grade talent show performance of Silverchair and 311. Origins & Evolution: The duo traces their history back to meeting in college, initially bonding over pop-punk, emo, and an Alkaline Trio cover set before steering into darker, more aggressive sonic territory. Dissecting Wrath: Alex and Zak detail the creative workflow behind key tracks like "Crucible" and "Thorn Crown," explaining how bass-driven foundations, layered guitars, and vocal hooks helped define the tone of the record. Featured Collaborations: Zak discusses the making of the track "Tomb," featuring guest vocals from Harlee of the Chicago band Bosses. Horror Influences & What's Ahead: The band dives into favorite horror cinema classics (including Hellraiser, The Thing, and Rosemary's Baby) and shares what's next as they balance tour dates, live sets, and early writing for future releases. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever: their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1138
August 10 · 31 min
Somebody put a Ramone in my podcast: Richie Ramone (Episode 1138)
Former Ramones drummer Richie Ramone joins the show at Beaumont's (2020 N. Halsted) in Chicago to talk about his Ramones days, live shows, solo albums, acting pursuits, and what keeps his creative sparks lit for him. Thanks to Beaumont's for the unbelievably good burgers and hospitality. Discussed in this episode: Joining the Ramones: Richie reflects on joining the band in 1983, navigating the group's mid-80s era, and writing iconic tracks like "Somebody Put Something in My Drink." Life on the Road & Leaving the Band: What led to his departure in 1987, including the infamous merchandise dispute and the realities of touring Europe in the pre-Euro era. Transition to Acting: How a chance encounter at a horror convention launched a second career in film, including recent projects like Deify and working alongside Clint Howard. The Legacy of Punk: Richie discusses why the Ramones' music remains timeless, connecting with generations of fans at conventions, and what true punk rock means to him. What's Next: Future touring plans, scoring films, and his dream of voicing an anime punk rock character. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1137
August 4 · 35 min
Arcada Theatre/Des Plaines Theatre owner Ron Onesti (Episode 1137)
In this episode of Car Con Carne, host James VanOsdol sits down with Ron Onesti of Onesti Entertainment (OShows.com). For decades, Ron has been a fixture of the Chicago-area music scene, booking hundreds of shows a year at the historic Arcada Theatre in St. Charles and transforming the century-old Des Plaines Theatre into an entertainment hub. James and Ron dive into: Saving Historic Venues: The stories behind reviving century-old local landmarks and turning them into bustling community centers. The Chicago Concert Business: Navigating the most competitive live music market in the country, radius clauses, and how personal relationships keep major acts coming back. The Full Experience: How Ron intertwines live rock, speakeasy culture, vintage pinball, and authentic Italian dining (including the new Rock 'N Ravioli) to give audiences a complete night out. What's Next: The upcoming centennial celebration of the Arcada Theatre, new projects on Harlem Avenue, and keeping the spirit of classic rock alive. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
August 1 · 20 min
Coyote Man is back and still (mostly) an instrumental band (Episode 1136)
In this episode of Car Con Carne, James VanOsdol catches up with Ian from Chicago post-rock/metal instrumental powerhouses Coyote Man. Parked outside Noon Whistle Brewery in Naperville where a record and comic book show was coincidentally (?) happening, they dive into the band's long-awaited new album, Prosthetic Memories. What's In This Episode: Breaking the Instrumental Rule: Discover the story behind "Faith in a Burning Room," the album's closing track featuring vocals (yes, vocals) from guest singer Chris. 5 Years in the Making: How Prosthetic Memories evolved over five years, blending heavy riffs, psychedelic soundscapes, and even 20-year-old unused ideas. Production: Bringing in producer Dan Klein to help sequence a seamless, cinematic "Pink Floyd-style" album experience. Finally on Vinyl: Why releasing this album on physical vinyl through Smashed Plastic makes this milestone release so special for the band. Catch Coyote Man Live! Album Release Show: August 21st at Liar's Club in Chicago Album Streaming: Available everywhere starting August 14th Car Con Carne is proudly brought to you by Exploding House Printing.
July 28 · 26 min
Chris Otepka reinvents own Troubled Hubble songs with Heligoats (Episode 1135)
Chris Otepka of Heligoats joins me to talk about Neat New Monuments, a new album reimagining songs from Troubled Hubble's 20-year-old record, Making Beds in a Burning House. In this interview, Chris breaks down: The origin of Neat New Monuments: How a vinyl reissue proposal from Foreign Leisure Records prompted him to pause his new Heligoats project, relearn his older material, and record new versions of the songs. Recording in Elburn, Illinois: Working with engineer Mark Walker and bringing in guest musicians with connections to the songs.. Track-by-track changes: Reworking songs including "I See Molecules," "14,000 Things…," "Jackpot Stampede Deluxe," "Safe and Sound," and "Bees." Craft and perspective: Taking poetry classes with Buddy Wakefield, reflecting on how his connection to his lyrics has evolved over two decades, and stepping back from modern tech connectivity. Release show and future plans: Playing the album release show at Kiss the Sky Records in Batavia and preparing for upcoming Heligoats recordings and tours. Chris is a songwriting treasure, and these new versions are well worth a listen (if not an outright purchase of the vinyl version of the LP)! Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Support them (and do your brand a favor) by visiting explodinghouseprinting.com!
#1134
July 25 · 25 min
In praise of 'slut rock' - Naked Brunch at Rattleback (Episode 1134)
This episode was recorded in front of Rattleback Records in Andersonville with Naked Brunch lead singer Michael Hanna and Rattleback Records owner Paul Ruffino. Topics discussed: Naked Brunch's origins via Craigslist and their self-described "slut rock" sound. The band's recent 12-inch vinyl release on Rattleback Records featuring the tracks "Kiddie Pool" and "Humanoid". Remixes on the 12-inch release by Chicago house music pioneer Ralphi Rosario and jazz trombonist/DJ Emma Blau (Tromblau). The economics and creative mission behind running an independent boutique record label. Rattleback Records' new physical print zine, RPM, and its included flexi-disc releases. Upcoming live performances and music development for Naked Brunch. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1133
July 16 · 31 min
Josh Joplin celebrates 'Useful Music' anniversary as a Chicago resident (Episode 1133)
Singer/songwriter Josh Joplin sits down to talk about the silver anniversary of his 2001 album, Useful Music. The silver anniversary finds Josh's breakthrough pressed onto handsome vinyl alongside the digital release of "Useful Music (The Silver Anniversary Sessions)," a warts-and-all revisiting of the album's creation. Beyond the Useful Music reminiscence, Josh dives into his most recent album, Gap Year (stylized as GpYr). He shares the personal evolution behind its tracklist, focusing on the definitive mission statement of "Colored Copies", the resilience found within "Predator and Prey", and the full-circle emotional realization of "Before the Light Takes Us," a standout track featuring beautifully tracked backing vocals by his daughter. Josh also talks about what led him to relocate to Chicago in recent years, and how the adjustment has affected him creatively and motivated him professionally. Catch Josh Joplin live at The Hideout for a special matinee show on October 17th! Support Our Sponsors Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1132
July 3 · 31 min
Music journalist Selena Fragassi (Episode 1132)
Selena Fragassi has built an extensive career in music journalism, writing for publications like the Sun-Times and Spin, and authoring seven music biographies. On this episode, she jumps in the car to discuss her work across multiple platforms. During the chat, we talk about what makes a live show "good." Selena also shares what it's like to navigate the modern landscape of music journalism, as well as what drives journalists. And in case you're an aspiring music writer, she also shares solid tips on how to get going. Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Headquartered in the heart of Hermosa, they offer boutique print shop quality at large print shop prices for bands, brands, and small businesses. Check out their work on Instagram @explodinghouse or visit explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote.
#1131
June 17 · 7 min
Taste of Randolph preview - OK Cool (Episode 1131)
The last time James checked in with OK Cool, it was during the pandemic, and they were just faces on a screen. Now, they finally meet in vivid 3D at HIDE+SEEK on Randolph Street ahead of the band's Sunday performance at the 29th annual Taste of Randolph! Haley and Bridget reflect on their creative output since 2021, including the release of two EPs (Surrealist and Fawn) and their 2025 full-length LP, Chitchat. They also break down the meaning behind the catchy, residency-taking track "Jeans," reveal the Borat movie quote behind their "Wawwoowewa" music video, and share the exciting news that they have officially started tracking their next record. Special Thanks to Our Sponsor Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery, and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1126
June 17 · 9 min
Taste of Randolph preview - Action/Adventure (Episode 1130)
Years in the making, Chicago band Action/Adventure joins Car Con Carne ahead of their upcoming performance on the West Stage at the 29th annual Taste of Randolph! Recorded at the wonderful HIDE+SEEK on Randolph, the band talks about their masterful album Ever After, the transition from the remote, high-pressure writing process of Imposter Syndrome, and the realities of life on the road. Plus, they dive into the unique dynamics of their dual-vocal delivery and reveal that writing for their next record is already officially underway. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery, and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1129
June 17 · 9 min
Taste of Randolph preview - Julie Darling (Episode 1129)
From Hide+Seek (838 W. Randolph Street), James VanOsdol sits down with Julie Darling, the President of the West Loop Community Organization. With the 29th annual Taste of Randolph just days away, Julie shares an insider's look at what it takes to bring the massive, three-day street festival to life. In this episode, Julie previews the event's culinary focal points and highlights some incredible new festival additions. She also addresses the major structural shifts for this year's event, including the decision to completely eliminate the suggested gate donation in favor of a 50/50 cash raffle, and hints at some highly anticipated volunteer bars run by Chicago for Chicagoans and Double Door Rocks. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing, here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1127
June 17 · 11 min
Taste of Randolph preview - Gene Farris (Episode 1127)
From Hide+Seek (838 W. Randolph), James VanOsdol sits down with a true Chicago treasure and underground legend, house music icon Gene Farris. With a career spanning more than three decades, Gene is set to close out the East Stage on Friday night at the upcoming 29th annual Taste of Randolph. In this episode, Gene discusses his brand-new single, "This is the World", his aggressive creative mission to release a new track every month, and how he keeps his music current by staying open to learning from the generations that follow him. He also dives deep into the rich history and unmatched talent pool of the Chicago house scene, and shares how his label, Farris Wheel Recordings, has been breaking new artists and providing a platform for independent music since 1998. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing, here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1128
June 10 · 23 min
Deanna Belos talks Sincere Engineer's new album, Wil Wheaton, and Rainbow Cone (Episode 1128)
On a sweltering 90-degree summer day, Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer joins James VanOsdol in the car for episode 1128 of Car Con Carne. To beat the heat, they enjoy ice cream from Rainbow Cone while diving into the new Sincere Engineer album, Probable Claws, which arrives on June 26th. Deanna shares behind-the-scenes stories about writing the tracks, and how her songwriting has evolved to focus on a more refined, classic structure for this release. The conversation covers the fascinating details behind the album's tracks, including the opening song "Twist My Tongue" and the standout track (and JVO favorite) "LOL," which features a surprise spoken-word introduction from actor Wil Wheaton. Deanna explains how that internet friendship blossomed, leading to a fun discussion about her own name being inspired by Deanna Troi from Star Trek: The Next Generation. She also reveals the hilarious, stealthy process of filming her latest music video inside a Jewel grocery store right before closing time. As Sincere Engineer prepares for a massive summer ahead, Deanna also previews her upcoming performances at major Midwestern festivals, including Summerfest in Milwaukee on June 25th and a return to Chicago for Riot Fest in September. Check out Probable Claws on June 26! ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
June 3 · 32 min
Dan Dougherty launches new 'Beardo' Kickstarter for 20th anniversary (Episode 1123)
In this episode of Car Con Carne, James VanOsdol catches up with Chicago comic artist and musician Dan Dougherty at Hamburger Heaven in Elmhurst to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Dougherty's award-winning comic series, Beardo. Dan looks back on the decades-long evolution of the strip, from its late-night origins while working as a barista to its long newspaper runs and modern digital home. The conversation highlights Dan's current Kickstarter campaign for Beardo Volume 7, Generation X-Hausted, a massive collection bringing the brilliant collections current. For the first time ever, the campaign is offering backers a chance to own original, hand-drawn comic strips from the Beardo archives. Find the project on Kickstarter (search "Beardo"), and be sure to get yourself set up with a copy (and cool rewards in the process). Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between, offering boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1126
June 2 · 28 min
Toadies return with new Albini-recorded 'The Charmer' (Episode 1126)
When Clark Vogeler joined the Toadies in 1996, there was no way to imagine the band would still be going, selling out rooms across North America. Thirty years later, the veteran guitarist finds himself navigating a beautifully unpredictable landscape, touring behind The Charmer, a gritty, tough new LP recorded with the late, legendary Steve Albini. Sitting over pizza at The Art of Pizza in Chicago (3033 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60657), Vogeler reflects on how the band has defied time to become a cross-generational force. From old-school fans to teenagers crowding the front row, the Toadies are experiencing a career renaissance they never could have predicted decades ago. Vogeler pulls back the curtain on the creative process behind the new material, including the dark, self-critical inner voice that inspired frontman Vaden Todd Lewis to write the album's title track as a way of making peace with his own creative friction. Being an independent band in 2026 comes with freedom, a sharp contrast to the major label pressures the Toadies faced in the 1990s. By self-funding their studio time through relentless touring, the band completely owns their masters, ensuring their creative output stays entirely in their own hands. As they prepare to share the stage at the Vic Theatre with Local H, Vogeler chats about the camaraderie of the road, the enduring legacy of Steve Albini, and why age has absolutely nothing to do with making great, muscular rock and roll. Featured Sponsor: Exploding House Printing Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery, and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever—their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1125
May 30 · 18 min
Is Bask the 'turducken of rock?' (Episode 1125)
Zeb and Ray from the fantastic North Carolina band Bask join me for this episode as we chat on the back patio of Livewire Lounge in Chicago's Avondale neighborhood. Bask released their epic, genre-defying album The Turning last year, blending elements of psych, prog, atmospheric rock, and country into an incredibly awesome, cinematic vibe. We dig into their collaborative songwriting evolution, how they execute their massive sonic dynamics, and how their music serves as a true journey for the listener. Plus, since the interview fell on Zeb's birthday, we talk about the band's essential Chicago birthday stop: hitting up Johnny's Beef in Elmwood Park (this band knows how to maximize their tour down time). Support Our Sponsor Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1124
May 29 · 20 min
L7 takes victory lap on 'Last Hurrah' tour (Episode 1124)
L7 takes victory lap on 'Last Hurrah' tour (Episode 1124) L7 is embarking on their final run, The Last Hurrah Tour, capping off a legendary career with a final celebration of iconic songs, hooks, and unforgettable riffs. For Chicago fans, the circle closes at the Vic Theatre on Sunday, November 1, a stage the band hasn't commanded since 1994. In this episode, L7 co-founder, guitarist, and vocalist Donita Sparks joins the show to reflect on the long road, the band's legacy, and what it means to finally say goodbye on their own terms. Donita looks back at the band's transition from its indie roots to early 90s alternative mainstays and highlights along the way, like being anointed by John Waters for Serial Mom. "We wanted our gender to not be relevant... we just wanted to prove in a punk rock way that you could throw a band together, work hard, and go on tour." — Donita Sparks Beyond the nostalgia, Donita dives deep into the sonic DNA of L7, explaining why they will always be a "guitar band, not a vocal band." She opens up about the realities of the 90s major label system, the resilience it took to create The Beauty Process: Triple Platinum, and the joy of reconnecting with fans over the last decade. It's a candid conversation about hard work, and ultimately, a mission accomplished. The end is near, and you don't want to miss the last hurrah. Press play and check out the full conversation with Donita Sparks. (Permission to use "Fuel My Fire" and the associated tour video sizzle kindly provided by L7/rights holders) ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever: their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing. Besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
May 27 · 33 min
Meet me in Golden Sands - Exploring Rachel Lichtman's corner of the multiverse (Episode 1122)
Was life better before the digital era? That's the rhetorical question at the heart of Golden Sands, the immersive, totally analog experience created by Rachel Lichtman. She recently jumped in the car to talk about her upcoming Programme 4: The Affiliate Sales Presentation show at Evanston's SPACE on May 27th. Described as a station from an alternate timeline that simply never stopped broadcasting, the traveling show forces audiences to sit with media in a way that modern streaming interfaces disrupt. Lichtman notes that our modern "handheld casinos" offer so many options that choice paralysis sets in, torpedoing our attention and severing our cultural connection. I love the fact that these shows rely purely on old-school, word-of-mouth curation to bring people together.Described as a station from an alternate timeline that simply never stopped broadcasting, the traveling show forces audiences to sit with media in a way that modern streaming interfaces disrupt. Lichtman notes that our modern "handheld casinos" offer so many options that choice paralysis sets in, torpedoing our attention and severing our cultural connection. I love the fact that these shows rely purely on old-school, word-of-mouth curation to bring people together. The event is a highly collaborative, scripted performance inspired by the bizarre world of corporate industrial musicals and 1970s television. The performance features a stellar cast of local and national talent, including Chicago media legend Rich Koz, Dag Juhlin, Jon Langford, Kelly Hogan, Joel Murray, Nora O'Connor, and Chris Murphy. Dag brings "Rod Kellogg" to life, a buttoned-up host surrounded by a world of mid-century grooviness he doesn't quite understand. With custom set designs, a live Rhodes piano providing a nostalgic soundscape, Programme 4 offers a needed, temporary escape from the digital world. I can't wait. To see the full schedule of upcoming dates, make the scene over at programme4.tv.
#1121
May 7 · 45 min
Elevating concerts to next-level experiential moments: Robb Jibson (So Midwest) - Episode 1121
"We're a little egoless. We're happy to just do the content, be a part of the lighting, or help anybody execute and create something cool." — Robb Jibson In this episode, I sit down with Robb Jibson, the founder and creative director of So Midwest, a Chicago-based production design firm. Robb has spent decades building the visual experiences that define live music for artists like Fall Out Boy, Incubus, and Panic! At The Disco. We discuss his journey from a teenager in Michigan to the center of the concert production world. Episode highlights The "Tetanus" origin story: Robb recounts his early days in a metal band called Tetanus and how an attempt to use car headlights for stage lighting led to a run-in with the law and a formative stint doing community service at the Frauenthal Theater. Touring with the Backstreet Boys: At just 19 years old, Robb landed a spot on a tour with the Backstreet Boys during the height of their popularity. The birth of So Midwest: Originally started as a tax shelter while touring with Incubus, the company name was inspired by a simple 1-inch button found at the Empty Bottle. The shift to motion graphics: Robb explains how the industry transitioned from "smoky beams of light" to complex video content and 3D animation around 2007. Working with Chicago legends: We talk about his long-standing relationships with local favorites like Alkaline Trio, The Lawrence Arms, and Chevelle. Follow So Midwest: Visit somidwest.com to learn more. Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing! Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa, and their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.

Showing 1–20 of 22 episodes