Center Stage: An Abandoned Albums Podcast

On this episode, we're spotlighting Las Nubes, a dynamic band hailing from Miami's vibrant music scene. Las Nubes—meaning "The Clouds" in Spanish—has been captivating audiences with their unique blend of indie rock, punk, and shoegaze influences. The band delivers a powerful mix of English and Spanish lyrics that explore themes of identity, emotion, and everyday life.  They stopped by to chat about their career and their new album, Tormentas Malsanas. So sit back and join us as we explore Las Nubes' atmospheric world and what makes them a standout act in South Florida's music landscape. LINKS Las Nubes Bandcamp Las Nubes Web On IG On YouTube On Spotify

Jacob Cade is Jaguar On Mars, a refreshing new artist who you will want to put on your radar.  Jaguar On Mars straddles the line between rock and pop, and with his talent, he’s bound to leave a mark in both. LINKS Jaguar On Mars on Spotify Jaguar On Mars on YouTube Jaguar On Mars on IG

Orenda Fink is a musician, songwriter, performer, and writer whose work has been profiled in by NPR, Pitchfork, and more. She has been writing, recording, and touring for critically acclaimed records since 1997. Orenda got her start in Birmingham, Alabama, with the pop-rock group Little Red Rocket.  In 2000, she formed the lauded ethereal folk duo Azure Ray with longtime friend Maria Taylor in Athens, Georgia. Azure Ray has cowritten with Moby and collaborated with Bright Eyes, Sparklehorse, and the Faint, among many others, with their music regularly featured in film and television programs.  The Witch’s Daughter is her first book. She is originally from Alabama, and now resides in California’s Mojave Desert with her husband, Todd Fink of The Faint, and their dog, Grimm.  The experiences described in this book prompted Orenda to become a certified Jungian Depth Coach with a specialization in shadow work and dream interpretation. LINKS Orenda on the web The Witches Daughter Book Orenda Fink on Bandcamp Azure Ray on Bandcamp O+S on Bandcamp Closeness on Bandcamp Orenda Fink Radio on Spotify Jungian Dream Analysis

This week, we welcome the husband-and-wife team of Rachel McNally and Chris O'Rourke from the band Sleepyhead to Thunderlove Studio.  Fiercely independent, the band has built a loyal and dedicated following throughout its career, including a host of fellow musicians, critics, and our own Geoff Calhoun. They're a band that continues to record and what you're hearing right now is their latest release, "I Guess I'm Hoping That You're Lonely." What follows is a career-spanning conversation with a band that may be difficult to categorize unless that category is just plain awesome. LINKS Sleepyhead on Bandcamp Sleepyhead on Slumberland Records Sleepyhead on IG Sleepyhead on FB  

The original conceit of the Abandoned Albums podcast was to find albums that had been recorded but never released, in other words, abandoned. It has since morphed into so much more, but the band Shufflepuck fits perfectly into that original conceit. The band stormed through that Hollywood scene, whose ascension was fast and furious. When all the labels knocked, the band only had eyes for Interscope Records, the then-white-hot label. When Interscope knocked, Shufflepuck answered, a pairing as natural as peanut butter and jelly. Shufflepuck was: Adam Orth - vocals, guitar Justin Fisher - guitar Ed Alexander - bass Keith Fallis - drums The band recorded one full-length album for Interscope Records that was sadly never released… and that’s when the story gets interesting. The album has been at full volume here at Thunderlove Manor for a few months now and the fact that this album did not see the light of day in 1996 is just another brick in the wall of befuddling music business decisions... and great musical travesties. Thankfully, it’s being corrected. We spoke with Adam and Justin from Shufflepuck awhile back and wanted to repost the interview in case you missed it. From Adam and Justin’s humble Connecticut beginnings of tee-ball games to childhood friendships to heavy metal to everyone’s eventual sojourn west to Los Angeles up to Shufflepuck’s ultimate implosion, this band’s story is fascinating. Adam and Justin sharing the Shufflepuck story is one of the main reasons that a show like Abandoned Albums exists. And we’re happy to be able to share it with you... again. The album drops Saturday August 24th. And if you live in the Los Angeles area, I encourage you to head on down to The Viper Room on the 24th for a record release party and a full on reunion show. Links Shufflepuck

In this episode, I sit down with renowned drummer Don Harvey for an insightful conversation about his storied music career. We explore his work with legendary artists across numerous genres. Don shares behind-the-scenes stories from the studio and the road, offering a glimpse into the life of a professional drummer. We also discuss his solo work, a mix of ambient music reminiscent of Zero 7. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of rhythm and the art of Don Harvey. LINKS Don Harvey on the web Don Harvey on YouTube Don Harvey on Apple Music Don Harvey on Spotify Don Harvey on Tidal

Too Much Joy is an American alternative rock music group, that formed in the early 1980s in Scarsdale, New York. Original members Tim Quirk (vocals), Jay Blumenfield (guitar, vocals), and Sandy Smallens (bass, vocals) stopped by Thunderlove Studio for a career-spanning conversation with Keith and Geoff.  "Humor and youthful energy enliven the good ol' rock 'n' roll dispensed by Too Much Joy." - Can confirm. Links: Too Much Joy on Bandcamp Too Much Joy on IG Too Much Joy on the web Too Much Joy on maplikemine

Shazy Hade is an electrifying band hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, known for their unique blend of alternative rock and indie pop. The band is well-known for their energetic performances and catchy, thought-provoking songs.  In this episode, I sit down with TK and Dave from Shazy Hade to discuss the band's musical journey, their creative process, and what it's like to be part of Madison's vibrant music scene. We dive into their inspirations, challenges, and future plans, offering listeners an intimate look at the band’s dynamic chemistry and artistic vision.  LINKS Shazy Hade on Bandcamp Shortwave Records

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of Henry Owings, a multifaceted force in the independent music and publishing scenes. Henry is the mastermind behind Chunklet Industries, an Atlanta-based independent publisher and record label renowned for its sharp wit and underground edge. Chunklet Magazine, which Henry launched in the 1990s, quickly gained a cult following for its satirical take on the music industry and pop culture.   But Henry's talents don't stop at publishing. He's an accomplished graphic designer, known for creating eye-catching posters, album covers, and other visual art for a plethora of bands and events. His distinctive style has become a staple in the indie and punk rock communities, resonating with fans and musicians alike.   In addition to his publishing and design work, Henry is a seasoned event promoter and DJ, and label head. He has brought together some of the most exciting names in music. His passion for the scene is palpable, and his stories from decades of involvement are both hilarious and insightful.   Tune in to hear Henry discuss his journey, the evolution of Chunklet, and his views on the ever-changing landscape of the music industry. This episode promises to be a compelling listen for anyone interested in the intersection of music, art, and independent culture.   LINKS Chunklet on Bandcamp Chunklet on the web Chunklet on IG Limbo District Article on The Guardian Limbo District Article on NPR

Hear the full story!  Forty years after the final recording session, Los Angeles-based power pop band THE BINGS have released their debut album. The 16-track multitrack master tapes sat forgotten in a California bedroom closet until they were discovered during the 2020 lockdown. Mixed from scratch, the album the world has never heard: "Power Pop Planet - The Lost Tapes." Links: The Bings on Bandcamp The Bings on the web The Bings on FB The Bings on IG The Bings on Tik Tok