Flightless Bird Black Shiny FBI Shoes
Nov 11, 2025
Kirk Huffman, a Seattle musician, shares his memories of Tom Pfaffel, a legendary audio engineer, and mentor. Thomas Hunter, a touring guitarist, recounts experiences with Tom that shaped their band, Wild Orchid Children. Trent Moorman, a journalist, dives into the chilling events of the Blue Spruce Motel shooting that claimed Tom's life. The conversation touches on grief, community disbelief, and the haunting mysteries surrounding these events, illustrating how art and tragedy intertwine. Their powerful song, 'Black Shiny FBI Shoes,' serves as a cathartic tribute to loss.
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Meeting A Mentor In Chaos
- Thomas met Tom Pfaffel while deeply immersed in addiction and chaotic touring life.
- Tom became a musical mentor who recognized and nurtured Thomas's talent, changing his career path.
Legacy Through Teaching
- Tom Pfaffel taught a generation of Seattle audio engineers and shaped the local music infrastructure.
- His influence mattered more through people he trained than any single album he worked on.
The Tank: Studio As Commune
- Tom owned The Tank studio where bands lived and recorded together for immersive sessions.
- The studio produced key records and fostered intense, 24-hour creative collaboration.