ifitbeyourwill Podcast

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Gary Olsen from Ladybug Transistor takes us on a nostalgic journey back to his first encounters with the magic of radio, which ignited his passion for music. Imagine the excitement of flipping through radio dials as a child, stumbling upon the hidden gems of college stations that would ultimately shape a lifelong musical path. Gary reveals how his unconventional songwriting methods, which rely on layering sounds with a four-track recorder rather than traditional chord progressions, have been key in the formation of Ladybug Transistor. As he shares his unique creative process, we get a glimpse into the collaborative spirit that drives his artistic endeavors, offering insight into how it all comes together to create the band's signature sound.
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of balancing music production with sound engineering. Gary opens up about the benefits of recording vocals solo in the studio and how working with an engineer can bring a fresh, objective perspective to the mix. We reminisce about the creation of their album "Albemarle Sound," recalling the creative energy that flowed from living together as a band. With the upcoming 25th-anniversary reissue on the horizon, Gary discusses the thrill of unearthing rare demos and b-sides that breathe new life into the album for a new audience. Tune in to explore the artistic choices and collaborations that have defined Ladybug Transistor's enduring legacy.

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Join us on a fascinating musical exploration with Mary Water and Pat Maley from Guidon Bear as they reveal the heart and soul behind their new record, "Internal Systems." Discover how their 25-year collaboration began in the 90s when Pat, captivated by Mary's performances, brought her onto the Yo-Yo Recordings label. With roots in church bands and experimental Philly sounds, their journey highlights music as a therapeutic force that helps them maintain emotional balance and connection, much like a deeply personal therapy session.
Curious about how creativity thrives amidst imperfections? Mary and Pat share their insights into the unblocking of the creative mind, a process akin to embracing spontaneity in live performances. As they unfold the secrets of their dynamic partnership, listeners will gain an understanding of authentic artistic expression, far removed from the polished facades often seen on social media. Adrian Lenker's songwriting class on this very topic provides a backdrop to their unique approach to music-making.
Explore the reality of life on tour with the compelling track "Ride Into the Beast," inspired by the challenges and discoveries encountered on the road. Pat's cultural insights and musical versatility shine through, transforming simple arpeggiations into resonant soundscapes that echo shared experiences. In a world where connections are increasingly sought through screens, this episode prompts reflection on the nature of empathy and the narratives we construct to make sense of our own lives.

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What happens when a band defies the constraints of time and still remains relevant after four decades? Join us for an intimate conversation with Jeff Martin of the band Idaho as he opens up about their cult status, the unique bond with fans, and their long-standing influence on the slowcore genre. We explore Jeff's recent whirlwind of creativity, including a new record, a remastered box set, and a heartfelt documentary. Discover how Idaho's stripped-down, textural guitar sound continues to captivate both long-time followers and new audiences alike.
Jeff delves into the evolution of Idaho's songwriting craft, highlighting the deliberate pace and melodic bass lines that have become their hallmark. He shares the challenges and rewards of creating music at a slower tempo, enhancing the band's distinct sound. Our discussion also touches on the natural progression and subtle improvements in Idaho's lyrical content and cohesiveness over the years, reflecting their growth and experience. Jeff provides insights into the band's early days, his high school friendship with co-founder John Berry, and the enduring legacy they've built together.
Reignite your passion for Idaho as Jeff recounts the creation of their album "Lapse" and the renewed energy brought by guitarist Robbie Bronzo during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jeff reveals the motivations behind releasing a new album after an 11-year hiatus and the emotional significance of music creation. We also explore the meticulous process behind their remastered box set and the making of their documentary, capturing the band's journey through extensive personal archival footage. Whether you're a die-hard fan or discovering Idaho for the first time, this episode offers a heartfelt appreciation for the band's enduring artistry and legacy.

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What happens when music becomes both a lifeline and a battleground? Julia-Sophie opens up about her late introduction to music within her French family, where singing was a cherished form of personal expression. She candidly shares her journey starting from learning guitar at 16 and writing her first song to honor her grandfather, to the thrill and hard knocks of busking and forming a pop band at 17. The excitement of being noticed by a Sony representative quickly turned bittersweet, leading her band to disband. Julia reflects on those early days filled with fun, naivety, and a sense of camaraderie that shaped her identity as a musician.
Navigating the transition from band life to a solo career, Julia discusses the challenges and rewards of staying true to herself amid tempting but conflicting opportunities, such as turning down a tobacco advert. She provides a unique perspective on the creative process, contrasting the collaborative energy of a band with the solitary freedom and responsibility of solo work. Julia also offers a peek into her latest album, "Forgive Too Slow," where emotions and traditional songwriting structures play a pivotal role.
Finally, Julia takes us through the tumultuous emotional landscape of releasing music independently. From the self-doubt and isolation of working without a record label to the near-abandonment of her album, her story is one of resilience. The unexpected lifeline from Ba Da Bing Records revitalized her confidence and provided a sense of redemption. Julia shares intimate details about facing rejection and public scrutiny. Yet, through it all, she found validation and connection with listeners worldwide, proving that perseverance in the music industry can lead to profound personal and professional fulfillment.

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Imogen Moon has a voice of experience and wisdom at only 21 years of age! On episode 15 I caught up with Imogen from her Vancouver home to talk not only about her music, but her family linage with music and art that have guided her to a very exciting point in her budding career. On July 21st When They Start Rebelling drops, an homage to her late grandfather Randle who penned and released these tunes back in the 70s. Imogen's EP covers all 6 songs in her own suave, soul-inspired style. Be sure to listen to her latest release "Nicolston Dam" recorded with members of The Dap-Kings and The Roots at the end of the podcast. ☺️
Doug Randle's Songs for the New Industrial State https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/12781-songs-for-the-new-industrial-state/
https://www.instagram.com/celeryhater55/?hl=en

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