

848. - Cass McCombs
8 snips Sep 24, 2025
In this conversation, singer-songwriter Cass McCombs shares insights from his life in New York after growing up in the Bay Area. He dives into his thought process of songwriting, emphasizing character-driven narratives and minimal editing. Cass reflects on his morning routine, which involves writing dreams and making music quietly. He shares love for touring by car and reminisces about working at a soda fountain in Berkeley. The chat also touches on his grumpy outlook on slang and social media, revealing his artistic perspective.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Baltimore Squat And Music Scene
- Cass lived in Baltimore in an abandoned grocery store that had been built out for bands and recording.
- He recalls being woken by loud, ritualistic bands like Lungfish practicing nearby.
Not Chasing New Music Trends
- Cass says he doesn't actively seek new music and rarely connects with contemporary hip-hop.
- He focuses on his own work and the output of his musician friends instead of chasing current trends.
Filter Noise, Preserve Silence
- Cass seeks silence and filters urban noise mentally rather than relying solely on technology.
- He values deciding what deserves attention to preserve creative focus in the city.