Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean Smith

Lucas Woodland from Holding Absence shares his experience stepping in for Funeral For A Friend at Slam Dunk Festival 2024. Tucker Rule discusses memorable mosh pit antics while reflecting on L.S. Dunes’ creative evolution. Charlie Rolfe celebrates the nostalgia of performing with The Blackout, revealing exciting future plans. The trio engage in humorous chats about festival life, the unexpected joys of live performances, and the camaraderie in the music community. Their vibrant stories capture the essence of pop punk and the festival spirit!

Taylor Acorn, a genre-bending singer-songwriter known for her emo-pop-punk sound, dives deep into her journey from country music to sold-out international tours. She discusses the highs and lows of being an independent artist and nearly quitting music altogether. Secrets about her viral TikTok covers and the humorous chaos of touring emerge, alongside personal stories about her supportive friendships and the importance of community. Plus, there's a wild discussion about her quirky tattoos and the thrills of live performance.

Joining the conversation is Serj Tankian, the iconic vocalist of System of a Down, known for his powerful voice and activism. He shares behind-the-scenes stories that didn't make it into his memoir, discusses the band's thirtieth anniversary, and reflects on their status since their appearance at Sick New World. Serj offers insights on the challenges of live performances, his songwriting process, and his frustrations with activism. Expect humor and nostalgia as he reminisces about their game-changing collaboration with Rick Rubin and the legacy of "Steal This Album."

Simon Robinson, production coordinator for Slipknot and former zookeeper, shares his unique journey from animal care to managing one of metal's biggest bands. He reveals the hectic logistics of Slipknot's tours, including backstage antics and the challenge of tracking down bizarre rider requests. Simon also discusses the parallels between zookeeping and managing band dynamics, his experiences with other popular groups, and memorable fan interactions. It's a wild ride filled with laughs, chaos, and insights into life on the road.

Brian Fallon, the vocalist of The Gaslight Anthem, chats about his life as a blue-collar songwriter and the vibrant New Jersey music scene. He clears up myths about the band's reunion while sharing hilarious festival fails and his guilty pleasure for nu-metal. Fallon reflects on his new lease on touring, the unique magic in his lyrics, and even Bruce Springsteen's favorite pizza. From life lessons learned as a mechanic to valuable advice from Jon Bon Jovi, this conversation is filled with laughter and stories that resonate deeply with fans.

AJ Perdomo, the dynamic vocalist and bassist of The Dangerous Summer, shares his vibrant journey in the music scene. He discusses the band's emotional return to Slam Dunk UK and reflects on parenthood while raising his daughter with Taylor Swift's tunes. Perdomo reveals the challenges of transitioning from a major label to independence and the anticipation surrounding their new album 'Gravity.' With stories about hidden tracks, personal milestones during the pandemic, and the wildest gig offer he ever received, it's a heartfelt and entertaining listen.

Ash Costello, the theatrical frontwoman of New Years Day, brings a spooktacular flair to the conversation. She shares insights from her latest album, discusses the whimsical challenge of moving with a 13-foot skeleton, and recounts hilarious tour stories, including mishaps at Warped Tour. Ash dives into the emotional rollercoaster of creating new music, her unexpected foray into WWE, and her love for horror films. Join this journey through both gothic creativity and personal anecdotes that capture the essence of her vibrant life.

Omar Abidi, the energetic drummer for Fightstar and a multi-talented figure in entertainment, joins the discussion. He dives into the band's recent momentous return to Wembley Arena after a long hiatus. Omar shares hilarious backstage stories, a cheeky request from Ed Sheeran, and memorable gig encounters, including getting hit by a raw fish! He reflects on the bond with fans, the chaos of early tours, and his acting ventures. The conversation is a captivating mix of nostalgia, music, and camaraderie, showcasing the transformative power of reunions.

Janine Shilstone and Hamish Reilly, vocalists and guitarist of the electrifying Scottish band VUKOVI, dive into their creative journey and upcoming album. They reveal their battles with self-doubt and the unique circumstances of their growth in the music scene. The duo shares hilarious anecdotes, including a tale about a 'walking fridge' that transformed their reputation. They also discuss the challenges of mental health, the pressures of the music industry, and the thrill of live performances, all while celebrating their love for Scotland and their innovative sound.

Sean Mackin, the talented violinist of Yellowcard, brings his infectious energy and insightful outlook on music and life. He shares his unique journey of representing the violin in pop-punk, reflecting on the band's reunion and the emotional connections made with fans. Mackin discusses the impact of his time away from music, his corporate job, and the evolution of the emo scene. With humorous stories about live shows and camaraderie among musicians, he emphasizes the joy of reconnecting and the spirit of community in the music industry.