ifitbeyourwill Podcast

Emma Danner from Red Ribbon invites you to an inspiring journey through her musical universe. Ever wondered how isolation can spur creativity and how a city like Los Angeles can offer both loneliness and limitless potential? Emma unpacks her unique experiences, including the move to LA fueled by her passion for music, and the role mentors like Loretta Taylor played in her early development. She recounts her musical beginnings, from the innocence of childhood piano lessons to the vibrant streets of San Francisco where she busked while studying classical violin. Her story embodies resilience, shaped by the challenges and triumphs of navigating the music industry during the pandemic.
Peek into the world of music production as Emma reveals what it takes to compose her self-titled album, set to grace your playlist on November 1st. She shares the emotional transformation of grief into art through her debut record "Freaks Only," and the vibrant collaboration with notable producer Randall Dunn, blending genres in unexpected ways. The episode captures the essence of being an independent artist—juggling studio deadlines, self-booked tours, and service industry jobs, all while remaining agile and open to spontaneous opportunities. Emma's narrative is a testament to passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of one's craft amidst an ever-changing landscape.

ifitbeyourwill S04E09 • Gary Olson of The Ladybug Transistor

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

10/11/24 • 31 min

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.

ifitbeyourwill S05E01 • Niko Kapetan of Friko

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

02/21/25 • 24 min

ifitbeyourwill S04E25 • Eden Sierotnik of COOL HEAT

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

12/11/24 • 32 min

Eden Sierotnik from COOL HEAT transports us into the beating heart of Chicago's music scene. Born amidst the vibrant streets of Chicago, Eden's journey from high school bands to being awestruck by iconic venues like the Aragon Ballroom is nothing short of captivating. Through Eden's eyes, listeners gain a unique perspective on how Chicago's rich musical history, with its roots in genres like post-punk and shoegaze, continues to thrive. Despite the challenges that have arisen post-pandemic, including the decline of DIY venues, Chicago's music festivals and the energy they generate keep the city's spirit alive, offering a fertile ground for both new and established artists.
Dive into the creative processes that shape Eden's music-making world. With a keen focus on balancing consistency and the need to recharge creatively, Eden shares insights into how platforms like Spotify can play a role in an artist's journey to success. As the conversation flows, we uncover Eden's evolution from crafting intricate studio recordings to developing a more direct sound he fondly calls "dream punk." The transition is inspired by the electric energy of live performances, and Eden offers us a fascinating glimpse into how these studio creations metamorphose on stage to offer an immersive, organic experience for audiences.
Eden opens up about the complexities of songwriting and collaboration, especially highlighted in tracks like “Change" on Abandoned. His meticulous approach to vocal production, from initial whispers to confident performance, reveals a journey of growth and introspection. With choir classes boosting his confidence, Eden has embraced the transformative power of vocal processors for live shows, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. The exploration doesn't stop there; Eden discusses the potential of revisiting older tracks, keeping his music fresh and resonant for fans, ensuring every live performance is as exhilarating as the last.

ifitbeyourwill S04E24 • Drew Danburry of Icarus Phoenix

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

12/09/24 • 27 min

Ever wondered what it takes to keep the creative spark alive amidst the hustle of life? Join us as we chat with Drew Danburry of Icarus Phoenix, who shares his incredible journey from a spontaneous songwriting moment at his brother's house to performing over 800 shows and releasing 400 songs. Drew provides a candid look into his world, revealing how his love for music and songwriting became a vital form of self-expression. He talks about the challenges and joys of forming a band, organizing performances, and nurturing creativity through an organic songwriting process. With personal anecdotes and reflections, Drew sheds light on how interactions with different generations inspire his music, especially the storytelling woven into each album's first track.
As Drew and Icarus Phoenix emerge from a whirlwind Japanese tour, we explore his remarkable achievement of recording 40 songs in just three days. Despite facing mental exhaustion and a guitarist's wrist injury, the band is steadfast in their creative journey, with plans to release singles over the coming year. We also get a glimpse into Drew's personal transition from barbershop owner to his current role at Old Bank Barbers in Baltimore, where he welcomes visitors for both haircuts and engaging conversations. This episode celebrates the resilience and passion that fuels Drew's pursuits, both musical and personal, while building anticipation for what Icarus Phoenix has in store for fans.

ifitbeyourwill S04E02 • Sumner Bright of The Clearwater Swimmers

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

09/10/24 • 34 min

What drives an artist to bare their soul on stage, and how does that vulnerability shape their musical journey? Join us as we sit down with Sumner Bright of Clearwater Swimmers to uncover the transformative experiences that have brought his music to life. Sumner shares candid memories from his high school performance days, the formative role of mentorship, and the pivotal moments in college that led to the birth of his band. His authentic storytelling offers a rare glimpse into the personal challenges and victories that have defined his path as a musician.
Sumner takes us behind the scenes of the Clearwater Swimmers' creative process, from rekindling a college friendship with bandmate Sander to embarking on a spontaneous mini tour in the Northeast. With vivid reflections, Sumner recounts their exhilarating recording sessions at Big Nice studio, where engineer Bradford Krieger helped them capture a raw, live sound over three intense days. We also delve into the deeper themes of their music—memory, loss, and the passage of time—each woven together like water flowing through a valley. This episode promises a heartfelt and poetic exploration of artistic growth, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and life's ever-flowing journey.

ifitbeyourwill S04E17• David Lowery of Cracker & Camper Van Beethoven

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

11/18/24 • 31 min

What happens when the worlds of music and mathematics collide? David Lowery, from the iconic bands Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven, joins us to share his intriguing journey from a math enthusiast to a prolific songwriter. Discover how his passion for numbers influences his unique, almost scientific approach to creating music. David also lets us into his world of hobbies, including amateur radio, and shares insights into his solo projects born out of the creative solitude during the COVID-19 pandemic. This conversation is a testament to Lowery's innovative spirit, where even the unlikeliest of inspirations can spark musical genius.
Reimagine the past with Cracker's "Alternative History" project as we explore the motivations behind this retrospective collection. David opens up about the band's quest to offer a genuine narrative free from the confines of algorithm-driven playlists and licensing hurdles. We delve into the creative process behind the alternate takes and unique collaborations with artists like Leftover Salmon and members of Drive-By Truckers, giving fans an authentic glimpse into Cracker’s evolution. Moreover, David shares his experiences at the University of Georgia, where he champions fair practices in the music industry while fostering the next generation of artists.
For aspiring musicians, the path to success is often fraught with challenges, but David offers invaluable advice. From the significance of producing a vast catalog of music to the irreplaceable value of live performances, he emphasizes building a real connection with your audience. We also discuss the importance of diversifying income sources and maintaining a balance to prevent creative burnout. Join us as we conclude with a poignant reflection on the emotional toll of farewells, capturing the bittersweet nature of goodbyes through poetic expression. Don't miss the upcoming release of "Alternate History: A Cracker Retrospect," which promises a fresh take on the band's legacy.

Podcast #2 • Ali Horn

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

01/28/23 • 44 min

ifitbeyourwill.ca Welcomed indie musician, singer-songwriter and founder of Loomiance Records https://www.instagram.com/loominancerecords/?hl=en Ali Horn. I caught up with Ali from his home studio in Liverpool UK.
Featured single L O B O T O M Y B O O G I E from Balcony Boys by Ali Horn

Podcast #18 • Slow Leaves

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

06/24/23 • 32 min

Singer Songwriter, Grant Davidson has been pounding the pavement for a couple decades writing songs about his life experiences, now with the up and coming record, Meantime, Slow Leaves has planted some indie folk gems that are sure to sprout 🌱 in the fields of musical history. Joining me from his home land of Winnipeg it was wonderful to talk to Grant about being a surviving musician, how he creates his music, and what's it like being the producer, songwriter, mixer of it all. Be sure to listen to the latest single, American Band at the end of our chat. Please support Slow Leaves by buying his record, checkout his shows, this is Canadiana folk at its' roots, so you know it will be awesome. 🤩
http://slowleaves.com/ 🍃

ifitbeyourwill S04E04 • James Smith of Good Good Blood

ifitbeyourwill Podcast

09/15/24 • 43 min

Can music heal a broken heart? Join us for an emotional and inspiring conversation with James Smith of Good Good Blood as he returns to the podcast, revealing the profound transformations in his life and music since we last spoke in January 2023. James opens up about the deeply personal loss of his baby girl, Poppy, and how this tragedy shaped his latest album, "Forever Scars," allowing him to channel his grief and creativity into something beautiful and raw.
James's journey is not just about crafting songs but about coping with unimaginable pain and finding solace in the process. He shares poignant insights into how Poppy's short life touched many, from family members to medical staff, and how songwriting has been his lifeline through this difficult period. This episode captures the essence of James's transformation—how he's evolved from a "pre-Poppy" to a "post-Poppy" version of himself, with his music reflecting this profound shift. Listen to a heart-wrenching live performance of "Little Sparrow," a testament to the raw vulnerability and authenticity that now define his work.
The conversation also delves into the collaborative efforts that have breathed new life into James's music. Hear about his unique approach to achieving a lo-fi sound using second-hand instruments and the invaluable partnership with his friend Paul, who brings a meticulous touch to James's spontaneous creativity. Discover how older tracks like "Forever Scars" and "Flowers Bloom" have been reimagined with deeper emotional layers, and get a glimpse into the creation of new songs that push the boundaries of his artistic expression. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration, resilience, and the healing power of music.