The Vinyl Guide - Artist Interviews for Record Collectors and Music Nerds

Justin Trosper of Unwound discusses the band’s resurgence, vinyl reissues, intergenerational fanbase, reflections on maintaining artistic integrity and what may be next for the band. Topics Include: Unwound’s upcoming debut in Australia this November Thoughts on Unwound still generating excitement after all these years Younger fans connecting with Unwound’s music, seeing it as new and relevant Artistic purity and maintaining integrity Other band's covering Unwound - obligatory Melvins reference Working with Kill Rock Stars and the freedom they had  Recording Leaves Turn Inside You - Making MagRecOne recording studio Working with Numero Group, developing boxsets Finding materials, tapes, artwork for vinyl reissues 4 boxsets: Kid Is Gone, Rat Conspiracy, No Energy, Empire - anything missing? Unwound has an archival ethic - UnwoundArchive.com Relationship with Vern after Unwound's breakup Lots of video and unexplored tapes What happened to the cover art for "Fake Train"? Is there the possibility of new material from Unwound? Does Justin still collect records? I'm sending Justin some records Playing the "Guess the Runout Groove Etching" game with Justin Interview wrap up Check Unwound Live dates & tickets Order Unwound vinyl Explore the Unwound Archive Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

Jerry Cantrell, founder, songwriter, guitarist for Alice In Chains, talks about his new solo album "I Want Blood", upcoming vinyl reissues of solo work, Alice In Chains, his love for vinyl and how to make the vinyl records special for fans. Topics Include: Interview start – Will Jerry be down in Australia? I Want Blood, Jerry's new album, drops October 18, with a couple of tracks already streaming - pre-order vinyl editions of I Want Blood on jerrycantrell.com. That wall of vinyl from an old interview? Not Jerry's—just someone’s house they filmed in. While his own collection has gotten smaller, Jerry still enjoys spinning vinyl at home. Vinyl’s unique sound—compression, hiss, and all—keeps him hooked. Jerry’s been involved in vinyl reissues, like Black Gives Way to Blue, and more are on the way. Vinyl reissue plans of Self-Titled/Three-Legged Dog/Tripod album – 30th anniversary reissues Prefers creating albums - a commitment to what and where the band is at the time “Boggy Depot” & “Degradation Trip” were created close together, as were “Brighten” and “I Want Blood” Is there a theme or through line for “I Want Blood”? What did he learn about himself from this album? Spoken-word versions of the songs specifically for the vinyl packages Rather than etchings on vinyl, he prefers to give fans music content. The spoken-word tracks were backed by music contributed by different musicians in his orbit - adds a unique flavour to the album. He still loves making albums – writes music and considers the format Other vinyl reissues – The Devil put Dinosaurs Here They’ve managed to keep track of most of their tapes and artwork, despite some industry losses over the years. Jerry confirmed that the self-titled album’s master tapes are safe, debunking rumours they were lost. What’s up with Alice In Chains LIVE, Unplugged, etc? When is a song for Alice in Chains and when is it a solo album track? After an album and tour cycle, Jerry often takes a break from playing guitar to recharge creatively. The next year – touring, solo shows, Alice In Chains dates, etc Interview wrap up Pre-order "I Want Blood" vinyl here Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

Legendary producer Eddie Kramer shares the history and legacy of Electric Lady Studios, the revolutionary space built for Jimi Hendrix’s creative genius - from its groundbreaking design, Hendrix’s final sessions, to the incredible impact this iconic studio had on rock music history. Topics Include: Electric Lady wasn’t just a studio; it was Jimi Hendrix’s creative sanctuary. Back in the ‘70s, having your own studio as a rock artist was unheard of—Jimi changed that. They transformed a basement nightclub into a cutting-edge studio, unlike anything else at the time. Jimi lived just blocks away—he’d walk over with his guitar and just dive into creating. The vibe at Electric Lady was pure Jimi—his vision made it an extension of himself. Eddie and the team prepped the studio for 24-tracks, even though it started at 16. The studio had custom innovations, like seating designed to keep friends out of sightlines. Hendrix loved working fast, and Electric Lady let him capture that energy in every session. Hendrix recorded there for four months before heading to Europe—and never returned. The documentary gives a glimpse of that magical time, full of outtakes and alternate mixes. Kramer talks about how they audited tapes and recorded new songs, blending old and new ideas. Fun fact: The round windows in the studio doors? Jimi’s idea. He loved to keep things unique. The Village was Jimi’s playground—he could walk around without being bothered. Eddie recalls marathon sessions with Jimi, cracking jokes between takes, always keeping it light. Hendrix was a master at balancing creativity and fun—there was always laughter in the room. Eddie mixed a lot of iconic music at Electric Lady, including tracks from David Bowie and Zeppelin. Hendrix wanted to expand his sound with strings and horns—his musical vision kept growing. The final sessions at Electric Lady were intense, but full of joy and excitement. Electric Lady still has the same vibe, with a layout that’s barely changed in over 50 years. The five LP box set coming out captures the magic of those original sessions—essential listening. Hendrix built Electric Lady to be his personal space, and it became a landmark for music history. Order the movie and 5-LP boxset here Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

Steve Wynn of The Dream Syndicate reflects on his career, the resurgence of vinyl, the collectable nature of his rare vinyl releases and the creative process behind his latest album "Make It Right" and autobiography "I Wouldn't Say It If It Wasn't True".  Topic Include: Steve’s experience moving from physical media (vinyl, CDs) to digital formats for convenience on the road. Nostalgia for his time working at Rhino Records and its influence on his music career. The unique music community and culture at Rhino Records, where Steve worked and networked. Steve’s gradual shift away from collecting vinyl and embracing digital media. The evolution of the record industry from the 1980s to present, particularly how vinyl has returned. The role of music curation in record stores and its importance for music discovery. Steve’s reflections on his long music career, ensuring his albums are still released on vinyl. The process behind finally releasing Sweetness and Light on vinyl after many years. How European record labels helped support Steve’s career in the 1990s when U.S. labels were less involved. Curating and filtering music as a key element for making a record store stand out. The strategy behind releasing his new album Make It Right alongside his autobiography. Steve’s thoughts on the practicality and challenges of touring with vinyl versus digital formats. The difficulties and satisfaction of managing his own music career independently for over 30 years. Experiences with bootleg releases of live performances and navigating music rights issues. Steve’s approach to improvisation in music, particularly during live performances and recording sessions. The creative freedom Steve found in balancing spontaneous music creation with planned studio work. Inspirations behind Dream Syndicate’s album covers, including their homage to classic jazz designs. Steve’s take on recording technology, from analog to digital, and how it has influenced his process. The importance of capturing the immediacy of live music, and how it can surpass overproduced studio albums. Reflections on how Steve’s songwriting process is influenced by his background in sports journalism, focusing on brevity and clarity. Steve’s view on minimalism in songwriting, using fewer words to evoke more emotion and meaning. His thoughts on how jazz and rock influences shaped Dream Syndicate’s sound and aesthetic. The evolution of his career, from making records in the 1980s to navigating the modern digital landscape. Steve’s challenges with securing master rights to his older albums and his recent success in reclaiming Medicine Show. The role of collaboration in his music, particularly with new band members who bring fresh perspectives to his creative process. Steve’s reflections on how the resurgence of vinyl impacts both artists and the music industry today. His thoughts on the balance between maintaining artistic integrity and the pressures from labels to produce commercially viable hits. The impact of the 2008 Universal Studios fire on master recordings and the uncertain status of some of his work. The importance of remaining adaptable in the music industry, especially with changes in distribution and technology. How Steve manages the intersection of being both a musician and his own manager, keeping both roles distinct yet complementary. The early records and mega collectibles of his career Interview wrap up Learn about Steve's releases and tours here. Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

John Flansburgh of They Might Be Giants discusses the evolution of the band's pioneering approach of music and technology to create innovative media and strengthen connections to their devoted fanbase. Topic Include: October Australia tour selling out TMBG’s last tour of Australia John’s car accident – broken ribs They Might Be Giants’ unconventional approach Early adopter approach, the gift economy Pioneering technological approaches The importance of Dial-A-Song Daily updates, the Dial-A-Song machine behaviours Where are the Dial-A-Song machines? TMBG’s impressions of Napster Challenges of the music industry in early 2000s Touring used to be a losing proposition Spotify and digital music returns for artists Vinyl is becoming a large return for TMBG What TMBG albums haven’t been reissued on vinyl? Loss of album artwork TMBG tapes and digital files 8-track version of “Book” TMBG never did a CD-ROM or enhanced CD TMBG approach and involvement with AI Music genres that lend themselves better to AI BBL Drizzy AI track Strangest song: playing “Saphire Bullets of Pure Love” backwards Backwards “Saphire” coming out on special 7” TMBG Instant Fan Club This Might Be a Wiki – TMBW.net Managing product flippers from Instant Fan Club A friend who used to be in Skull & Bones The story of 1st release “Wiggle Diskette” Distributing and nailing Wiggle Diskette on lamp posts around NYC 1985 TMBG cassette – reviewed by People Magazine Interview wrap up Aussies get your TMBG tickets here. Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

Lee Loughnane of Chicago shares memories of the band’s early period, the Chicago Transit Authority debut, Chicago’s live performances, rediscovered recordings and the band's enduring legacy. Topic Include: Lee Loughnane – intro Early days – memories of Jimi Hendrix Jimi wanted to play/jam with Chicago Terry Kath and Jimi got along well Learnings from Jimi and Janis Audience of high improvisation tolerance Chicago has so many hits, they can’t play them all in a show Touring with Earth Wind & Fire Playing when the power goes out Recording the 1971 Kennedy Center show Common to debut material live before recording The process of writing Chicago songs Jimmy writing the Ballet The naming of albums with Roman numerals Changing band name from Chicago Transit Authority Origin story of the Chicago band logo Releasing a double album as a debut Recording/rehearsing and writing 1st few albums Band house under the Hollywood Freeway AM radio wouldn’t play early Chicago material “Make Me Smile” single for AM radio Band was concerned about feasibility to do multiple albums Playing Carnegie Hall – recent remix and box set Remixing early Chicago records Challenge of playing live in early days Terry’s amp position on live stage Did Chicago record many early gigs? The Kennedy Center gig was special and recorded as such Chicago put out a lot of records early on Current tour going to Japan but not Australia Rediscovering Kennedy Center recording Debuting the song “Saturday In The Park” at the Kennedy Center Unheard Chicago songs and tapes been archived Chicago tapes – multitracks and masters Lee enjoys modern CDs much more than vinyl What’s Lee listening to these days? Lee never got into punk rock Interview wrap up Order "Chicago at the Kennedy Center" LP set here Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

Henry Rollins explores the intricacies of record collecting, sharing stories from his book series "Stay Fanatic!!!" and discussing his commitment to preserving rare music artifacts (Pt 2 of 2). Topic Include: Response for records that are costing thousands of dollars Buying original Misfits singles then getting them gifted from the band Obtaining Dischord and Black Flag records and artwork Preserving flyers at the time they were made Backing up Ian’s recording of The Cramps gig – Ivy holding the tape Collecting all the Black Flag gig posters when playing on the road Skipping meals to purchase archival page protectors Henry owns flyers and material that is the only known copy The scarcity of materials is a large attractor for Henry Lenny Kaye’s review acetate for Iggy & the Stooges “Raw Power” Henry keeps collections together for preservation “Do Not Sell At Any Price” by Amanda Petrusich Logic for spending lots on a record you want Robert Johnson song found by Alan Lomax Urban labels putting out music from Record Stores Page Hamilton reckons Be-Bop is the angriest music Henry takes no days off of writing Listening to The Damned “Machine Gun Etiquette” every Friday Drastic Plastic’s reissues of The Damned and The Cramps Henry plays The Damned “Strawberries” once each August Minor Threat opening for The Damned on Strawberries tour Charles Lindbergh left notes for future biographers Writing information and keep with records for future listeners Frustration on former owners who write or stamp on their records Regional pressings are so limited that copies with writing on it are only option Henry has a photographic memory for his record collection and condition Increasingly using software and laptops to track record collection Keeping records that he has nicer copies of – When possible, get 2 Process for preparing a record for adding to his collection What are the white whales Henry is chasing? Competing against a mythical nameless “German guy” “Stay Fanatic!!!” books are the way to share his collectibles Interview wrap up Order "Stay Fanatic!!! Vol 4" here Henry photo by Maura Lanahan Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

Henry Rollins dives into the fascinating world of record collecting, sharing insights through his book series "Stay Fanatic!!!" and discussing his passion for preserving & sharing music history. Topic Include: The origin story of “Stay Fanatic!!!” Writing about The Stooges Learning to scan, archive material Telling the stories with early band materials Transcribing from handwriting, then speech to text Henry doesn’t get rid of records Acquiring individual and collections of records Bands that reinvigorated his interest: OSEES, Ty Segall, etc Label out of China – Old Heaven Books Seeing Keiji Haino in Tokyo Metallica closing a show for Iggy Pop Can Henry talk about his new project? What is Henry’s tolerance for bootleg material? Going to “see” David Bowie and Joy Division through their bootlegs Aggravation with bad recordings sold on bootlegs Understanding band reluctance to put out some recordings Stopping releasing spoken word CDs as they end up on YouTube Signatures get put on eBay near immediately Henry no longer signs things Stopping people from bidding on fake signatures Henry’s routine with Discogs and eBay The anxiety of chasing Discogs and eBay alerts Missing out on fresh listings of a holy grail Buying items that were misstated in the listing Educating inexperienced sellers on proper listing The 1st world problem of collecting records Breaking even on the “Stay Fanatic!!!” Books The genius of artists like John Coltrane and The Fall Henry’s early years – His mother loved books and music Road Manager Ward brings a portable turntable on the road 15 feet on the unplayed records shelf Henry describes his home stereo system His system is set – very few changes Leveraging experts to work on the setup Collecting personal items from musical heroes The Adverts, UK Subs clothing are in Henry’s collection Order "Stay Fanatic!!! Vol 4" here Henry photos by Jacob McCann IG @blokeyoucantrust and Heidi May Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

David Yow discusses "RACK", the first Jesus Lizard album in 26 years, his acting career, stage vs. screen, dangerous moments of live performances & more! Topic Include: David Yow meets Skater the cat Penny the cat meets Skater “Rack” is the first album in 26 years Releases on Touch and Go and Ipecac Inspiring bands and albums for David Being inspired by punk bands in Austin Taking inspiration from The Incredible Shrinking Dickies Starting with bass then moving to vocals with Scratch Acid Coming up in a scene alongside Butthole Surfers Avoiding a musical speed trap Skater asks David a question Mixing the vocals lower in the mix Steve Albini’s awareness of new album Talk of having Steve Albini’s ashes in space What is David’s signature dish? Is David a good handyman? Does David miss performing in downtimes for his bands? Comparing playing live with acting An actor’s job is to make the director’s dream come true Good chance of tour dates in Japan and Australia Acting in FREE L.S.D. movie Does he have a different persona for the stage? Preparation for a live show – involves beers The most dangerous performance of his career The band thought David was dead Does David know his limits for performance? The Jesus Lizard show at Garden Amp – June 2024 Any apprehension about extending the Jesus Lizard catalogue with “Rack”? The process for song writing for “Rack” David isn’t the person who tracks the master tapes Random find of Scratch Acid tapes in an Oklahoma warehouse Engineer/Producer SPOT part of the Austin scene Making all Jesus Lizard albums with 4-letter words What were alternative titles before “Rack” was decided There probably won’t be another Jesus Lizard album Does David have a record collection? What does he collect? “Tonight You Look Like a Spider” Monolith edition Making physical items, sculptures The cover art of “RACK” Holes in the backstory of “Hide & Seek” It’s good to have mystery in lyrics The story of the Nirvana / Jesus Lizard split 7” Interview wrap up Order the new Jesus Lizard LP "RACK" here. Order the "FREE LSD" Blu-Ray and CD package here Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8

Dimitri Coats dives into the creation of OFF!'s groundbreaking film project "Free LSD". Hear the story behind the band’s journey with punk legend Keith Morris and the eight-year odyssey that led to their ambitious cinematic swan song. Topic Include: Interview intro The inception of "Free LSD" How different is “Free LSD” from the original “Watermelon” plans? Learning how to write a script Buzz and Dale of Melvins played on some Free LSD demos Mario was originally written into the movie Early filming at live shows for movie prep OFF! almost didn’t survive losing the rhythm section Dimitri’s background in acting Greater confidence in acting than music Working with Malcolm McDowell Managing OFF! prepared him for movie production Jonathan P Shaw was attached very early on Sculpting the mood and emotion of the film Bringing in new fans to OFF! through the movie OFF!’s breakup and potential reanimation Keith and Dimitri’s focus is diverging The community of friends that appear in the film Working with Jack Black – filming on an iPhone How DH Peligro saved “Free LSD” The passing of DH Peligro Participation of David Yow, Davey Havok, Don Bolles, Zander Schloss Coordinating concepts that carry through the album, movie and packaging Giving the band permission to try new things Retiring the band directly after their most ambitious project OFF! is exhausted and ready to move on Conflict and evolution of friendship and bandmates of Dimitri and Keith Keith and Dimitri helped one another reinvent themselves Big contributors to the film, revising the script to budget The meticulous details of the film The crew following Dimitri’s vision The challenges during filming the movie The process of developing OFF! music There was a lot of extra songs/outtakes from the Free LSD sessions The Blu-Ray / CD package of “Free LSD” Potential additional theatre screenings & Q&A The Blu-Ray / CD will be the only place for fans can hear 2 of the outtakes Lots of easter eggs, details and additional layers to the movie Interview wrap-up Order the "FREE LSD" Blu-Ray and CD package here Stream "FREE LSD" to your home here. Extended, Commercial-Free & High Resolution version of this podcast is available at: www.Patreon.com/VinylGuide Listen on Apple: https://apple.co/2Y6ORU0 Listen on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/36qhlc8