Mark and Me Podcast

In this chat with Wednesday 13, the horror-themed rock musician discusses the influence of KISS on his life and career. He reflects on childhood memories from the 80s, particularly horror films and toys, that inspire his creative process. Excitingly, he shares insights about his new album, Mid-Death Crisis, and an extensive upcoming tour across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. He emphasizes the importance of meaningful fan engagement and navigating the emotional landscape of the music industry, capped off with a heartfelt song selection.

Stu Folsom, frontman of SpiritWorld, shares insights about their latest album, Helldorado, which fuses thrash and death metal with a Western vibe. He reflects on his musical journey, transitioning from a passionate fan to a performer. The conversation dives into the importance of album art and live performances, echoing nostalgic sentiments. Folsom also discusses music's impact on family and society, the balance between artistic integrity and public perception, and the evolving role of social media in shaping personal connections within the music community.

Rou Reynolds, lead singer of Enter Shikari, discusses his upcoming War of the Worlds tour and the importance of fundraising for mental health awareness. He reflects on his artistic journey, influenced by nostalgic 80s films like E.T., and the evolution of theatricality in music performance. Rou shares personal growth experiences, balancing challenges and comforts, while emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of running. The conversation also highlights community engagement and the emotional ties between music and mental well-being, making for an inspiring listen.

Neil Fallon, the charismatic lead singer of the legendary rock band Clutch, shares his musical journey from childhood influences to navigating adulthood amidst societal expectations. He reflects on the deep connection live performances create with audiences and the importance of appreciating every show. Fallon also talks about the impact of teachers in his life, his creative process behind new music, and the joy pets bring, punctuating the conversation with delightful anecdotes about his furry companions. This engaging discussion reveals the heart behind the rock.

Mia Wray, an Australian pop singer and songwriter from Noosa, gained recognition after winning the Telstra Road to Discovery Program. In this conversation, she reflects on her musical influences, from Eva Cassidy to Bobby Darin, shaping her passion for performance. Wray discusses the emotional challenges of releasing personal music, the balance between authenticity and self-criticism, and her transformative moment meeting her idol, Gabrielle Aplin. She emphasizes the importance of genuine connections over superficial success in her artistic journey.

Charlie "Chubby Charles" Manning-Walker, the energetic vocalist of Chubby and the Gang, dives into the band's creative journey since forming in 2019. He shares how punk influences shaped their sound and discusses the emotional contrasts of live performances versus studio recordings. The struggle of balancing day jobs while pursuing music is a candid highlight, alongside redefining success in the industry. With a nod to nostalgia, he reflects on music's emotional power and the meaningful tributes that resonate with fans.

Eric Bass, bassist of Shinedown and a talented American musician and producer, discusses his new solo album, 'I Had A Name', revealing its emotional depth and creative processes. He shares nostalgic memories of early musical influences and the power of listening to complete albums, particularly vinyl. Eric reflects on the thrill of live music experiences and the transition from bandmate to solo artist, emphasizing the need for humility in creativity. He also highlights the comforting impact of iconic albums and the importance of trusting one's artistic vision.

Grant Nicholas, the talented lead singer and guitarist of the rock band Feeder, shares his musical journey and creative evolution, discussing the formation of a trilogy of albums and their nostalgic influences. He reflects on the art of simplicity in songwriting, inspired by legends like Tom Petty. The conversation navigates the balance between artistic control and commercial pressures, the DIY revolution in music production, and upcoming performances. Grant discusses revisiting classic albums while maintaining deep connections with fans.

Join Anthony Raneri, founder and lead vocalist of the punk rock band Bayside, as he reminisces about their impactful 25-year journey in music. He shares how childhood influences like Nirvana shaped his evolving taste, moving from technical complexity to the beauty of simplicity in songwriting. The conversation dives deep into the art of songwriting, emphasizing emotional resonance and performing in front of crowds of all sizes. Raneri also explores themes of love and heartache, offering insights on creating music that connects authentically with listeners.

In this conversation, Anthony Green, the talented lead singer of Circa Survive and L.S. Dunes, shares his journey through music, emphasizing the power of creativity and community. He reflects on the deep connections formed during high school dances and impactful concerts. Green discusses the emotional process of creating L.S. Dunes' debut album during the pandemic, highlighting its role as a source of unity and salvation. He celebrates the importance of authenticity in music and his excitement for future collaborations that infuse nostalgia into their sound.