This week, we're hard at work on a new live episode and a special Episode 150, so here's one of our favorite episodes, featuring the legendary Billy Cobham.
Aaron Steele grew up in New York City, raised by two Panamanian immigrants who become pastors. His adventurous spirit, deep pocket, and attention to sonic detail make him one of the most exciting young artists on the scene. He tells Joe about: how Bill Withers was his "Beatles"; growing up a believer; becoming a skeptic; how bands like At The Drive In liberated him from the culture of virtuosity enveloping the gospel scene, being "nearly homeless", getting roofied after a tour, and why he is happy with the course his life has taken.
Scott McPherson's seemingly effortless musicality has made him the drummer of choice for many of his generation's greatest songwriters. He tells Joe about addiction and sobriety; working with artists ranging from Sense Field to Elliott Smith; creating his own company, Tackle Instrument; and the danger of getting what you wish for.
Minnesota native, Dave King, grew up a voracious listener of seemingly disparate forms of music. This is reflected in his playing, which illuminates the through line between improvised music and punk. Dave and Joe discuss: getting pumped for high school wrestling by listening to Albert Ayler and Ornette; the band dynamics of the Bad Plus and Happy Apple; how Dave transitioned from being a “Paul Motian ripoff” to forging his own creative voice; and Dave’s bizarre and hilarious web series, Rational Funk
Riley Breckenridge dreamed of becoming a professional athlete, but after his prospects were cut short after an injury, he turned to drums. He achieved success with Thrice, a band that features his brother Eddie and their childhood friends from Orange County. Riley discusses the benefits and drawbacks about being intensely hard on himself; struggling to find an identity when the band went on hiatus; selling suits; feeling a "loss of gravity" after losing his father; and his own approach to fatherhood.