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High-brow conversations with movers n’ shakers in the music industry, and beyond. Exploring diverse realms of sound art and festival culture, with a decided focus on inspiration and human resilience. Hosted by music journalist B.Getz
Episodes
![099: SARI JORDAN: A Year In The Life [NOLA-based singer/songwriter]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/sari_jordan_1_8nt7w_300x300.png)
Jul 16, 2026
Jul 16, 2026
2hr 43 min
A Year In The Life of SARI JORDAN. Follow along the myriad musings, brave journey, and kaleidoscopic adventures of this unicorn artist blossoming in the vibrant underground of the beloved Crescent City. Three lengthy, intentional, colorful conversations with your humble narrator - in June 2025 in Oakland, CA, again in May 2026 in NOLA, and concluding July 2026 back in Oakland - paint illuminating murals of an ambitious, articulate singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist, portraits of a person stepping into their true selves in real time.
Each chat a fresh chapter and free exchange of ideas, exploring Sari's monumental glow-up; manifesting a sensational debut LP 'Perfect Be the Enemy'; introducing their latest live band; unpacking essential influences/inspirations/collaborators; the realities of DIY touring in 2026; musical truths unearthed thru transitioning; putting grief into song; finding their voice/learning to fly; singing in Anna Moss's live band and impactful lessons from the road; the glory of High Sierra Music Festival; plus assorted human experiences buried betwixt all of this action and attention.
Conversations between: a smattering of touching testimonials from Sari's peers and collaborators including Anna Moss (Handmade Moments) Ari Teitel (The Rumble, Dumpstaphunk), Renee Gros, Yano (The Rumble, David Shaw), and Nigel Hall (Lettuce).
- 0:00 episode 099 preview
- 2:30 Down To Funk Fest promo
- 4:20 Bub & Pop Podcast plug
- 5:15 Fete du Void preview
- 7:00 The Upful Update
- 11:00 Introducing SARI JORDAN
- 17:00 INTERVIEW w/ Sari pt.1. June ‘25 OAK
- 1:09:30 Intermission w/ Ari Teitel, Anna Moss
- 1:17:10 chat w/ Sari pt.2. May ‘26 NOLA
- 2:00:30 Intermission II w/ Nigel Hall, Renee Gros, Yano
- 2:07:15 chat w/ Sari pt.3. July '26 OAK
- 2:24:30 Afterglow w/ BG & ViBE Junkie JAM
ViBE JUNKIE JAM
"Grow Apart" - Sari Jordan [2026]
“SARE-ee” MID-FI FAIRY FUNK
Sari Jordan is a vocalist, songwriter and musician with a voice that shines in its raw honesty and playful boldness. Their music is intricate and ethereal, funky and joyful, a controlled burn. This New Jersey-born, New Orleans-based artist explores contradictions within relationships, power, and love. Jordan’s unique voice and introspective songs buzz at the edge that shimmers between artist and listener.
Led by their ears and curiosity, Sari’s musicianship exploded in the school of the New Orleans music scene. In October 2023, they released Sing to the Moon, a collection of original songs that reflect nascent ruminations with subtle confidence and ample whimsy. The 4-song EP is stamped with the influence of New Orleans.
PERFECT BE THE ENEMY is their debut album, released in Spring 2026. The 11-song project turns grief and transition inside out, adorning the emotional earthquakes of life in eclectic grooves, hypnotic guitar lines, and a warm and golden light — with Jordan’s voice and stories shining through.
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![098: MIKE RIVARD [bass/sintir: Club d'Elf] + LONNIE MARSHALL [bass/vox: Weapon of Choice, daKAH, Joe Strummer]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/Mike_Rivard_CLUB_d_ELF_2_7neeg_300x300.png)
May 24, 2026
May 24, 2026
2hr 54 min
Episode 098 brings a double dose of low end theory, welcoming a pioneering pair of underground bass legends percolating on opposite coasts, both cats deep in the streets and boasting decades in the game, with the catalogues and collaborators to prove it.
- 0:00 - ep.098 preview
- 3:30 - High Sierra Music Festival 2026
- 6:30 - The Upful Update
- 12:00 - intro: Club d'Elf's MIKE RIVARD [aka Micro]
- 15:00 - INTERVIEW w/ MICRO [83m]
- 1:38:00 - introducing LONNIE MARSHALL
- 1:42:00 - INTERVIEW w/ LONNIE [43m]
- 2:24:30 - afterglow x ViBE Junkie Jamz
First up Mike Rivard [aka Micro] - bass/sintir/founder/visionary of Boston's jazz-trance-dub-hop institution known as Club d'Elf. Twas an honor and privilege to finally tap in with Micro after a quarter century of fandom and awe. We chop it up at length about his group's unicorn career, magnificent co-conspirators like the late Mark Sandman, John Medeski, Brahim Fribgane (RIP), Joe (RIP) and Mat Maneri, Dave Tronzo, and (Friends Of The Pod) Mister Rourke, Adam Deitch, Ryan Zoidis, Jonny G, among several others. We learn about Moroccan sintir; the healing powers of Gnawa trance music; plant medicines and Terrence McKenna; Micro's personal trials and tribulations along the way; perspective on the integral role of independent music venues; interpolating NOLA Second Line rhythms in tandem with Morrocan traditions; revisiting his embryonic journeys with the Grateful Dead as a wide-eared, curious youngster. In April 2026, Club d'Elf unveiled their latest full-length LP Loon & Thrush, an absolutely stunning affair in a deep, eclectic d'Elf canon brimming with brilliant configurations and bold adventuring.
We chase that inspired dialog with another crucial chat featuring electrifying LA-based bassist/badass Lonnie Marshall from pioneering underground funk/hip-hop squadron Weapon of Choice. Lonnie was kind enough to hop on to discuss his life of Nutmeg Music, his bombastic and eclectic history and eccentric persona, direct lineage from the P-Funk family tree and his teenage era rollin' with Bootsy Collins' Boot Camp, colorful storytelling and dope collabs, remembering the ambitious daKAH hip-hop orchestra, recording/gigging Joe Strummer's debut solo LP/group, reflections on his brother Arik Marshall's brief, chaotic moment with the Red Hot Chili Peppers and long-term run backing Macy Gray. Plus a whole lot more in this educational inspirational get down with the most mega-nutt mug to ever bless these podwaves!
Weapon of Choice: "Nutty Nutmeg Phantasy" video/remix 2026
Bassist/sintir sorcerer Mike Rivard [aka MicroVard] defies any sort of rigid genre-specifics or generic categorization. The cat finds himself at home in a bewildering array of musical/cultural settings: from the good ol' Grateful Dead to the melancholic-rock of his late friend Mark Sandman and Morphine, to the mountains of Morocco with local Berber musicians, plus side trips into the Broadway pits, and tantric trance sessions with John Medeski and Joe Maneri. A "military brat" coming of adolescence in the wide expanses of Minnesota, he took in the local sounds of Prince, Husker Du, and the free-jazz coming out of the University of Minnesota milieu. Eventually a young Rivard would find himself while hitchiking on Dead tour, further opening up nascent doors of perception. Later, Micro set about embarking on Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music in 1981. After graduating, he studied with jazz legend Dave Holland. Inspired by North African gnawa music, he picked up a Moroccan sintir (three-stringed bass lute) and with guidance from Hassan Hakmoun and Maalem Mahmoud Gania, he has become one of a handful of Western musicians proficient on the instrument. He puts all of the shared sacred teachings and wisdom to good use in Club d’Elf, the jazz-world-dub-electronica squad he formed in 1998. Club d'Elf can be heard across more than 15 albums over the past 25 years; an eclectic, pioneering collective with a vast array of co-conspirators from around the world.
- Club d'Elf website
- new album Loon & Thrush
After years grinding it out on the LA scene with his brother Arik in Marshall Law, Lonnie Marshall founded Weapon of Choice in 1992, holding down bass and lead vocals. After a video directed by Geoff Moore for their song "Uppity, Yuppity Doolittle" came to the attention of Pearl Jam's Stone Gossard, the band was signed to Gossard‘s record label Loosegroove. They released three albums with Loosegroove before the company folded in 2000: "Nut-meg says Bozo the Town" (1994), Highperspice (1996), and Nutmeg Phantasy (1998). In 2001, the band dropped Illoominutty on Fishbone's Nuttsactor 5 record label, and in 2003, they released Color Me Funky.
Since 1997, Lonnie has performed alongside members of P Funk and Fishbone, among others, as part of Trulio Disgracias - a constantly mutating funk-rock-jazz collective headed by Norwood Fisher. Lonnie was an emcee, composer, and performer for daKAH, a 65 piece hip-hop orchestra which coalesced periodically in the Los Angeles area for many years. Before that, Marshall wrote, recorded and toured with the legendary Joe Strummer of The Clash, behind Strummer's dynamic 1989 solo debut Earthquake Weather. Lonnie has contributed/collaborated with Macy Gray, Snoop Dogg, Tone Loc, Ice Cube, George Clinton, Funkadelic, Perry Farrell, Les Claypool, Stone Gossard and his brother Arik Marshall.
ViBE Junkie Jamz
"Big Light In Sky" - Club d'Elf w/ Adam Deitch
Hotaka Mountain Music Festival - Japan- 2001-08-11
lespecial x Kanika Moore - "Chop Suey" [System of a Down] - 5/1/26 Blue Nile, NOLA
recent B.Getz appearances:
- In Search of D’Angelo - Delta Bravo Observation Team w/BG [2/26]
- Peace & Lovecast - Ode to Genius [D’Angelo ep w/ BG segment [2/26]
- Behind the Dopey - BG talks RHCP on Dopey Podcast - 4/26
CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS
High Sierra Music Festival 2026
BISS LIST
AARON SCHWARTZ ART
LAZYMOON DESIGN for promo/poster art needs
Bub and Pop Podcast
Support the Upful LIFE
Send B.G. a coupla' dollas 4 makin U holla!
EMAIL the SHOW
![097: JOHN SPEICE [drums - Brownout, Grupo Fantasma, Money Chicha, Hairy Apes BMX, Caramelo Haze] + JOHNNY WOODSTOCK [KNON, WWOZ, Blue Nile NOLA]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/097_JOHN_SPEICE_1_7q6nf_300x300.png)
Apr 7, 2026
Apr 7, 2026
2hr 43 min
Welcome to Episode 097 veteran drummer and percussionist JOHN SPEICE, prominently based in the Austin scene. Best known for work with Grammy-winning Latin ensemble Grupo Fantasma and its psychedelic-funk offshoot Brownout, including their beloved Black Sabbath-inspired side trip Brown Sabbath. Throughout his career, Speice has been core to a diverse array of bands like Money Chicha, Hairy Apes BMX, and Caramelo Haze, also collaborating with Black Pumas, Daniel Johnston, Golden Dawn Arkestra, Trio Asesino, Jon Muq, among many others. I first saw John Speice electrify with a one-off version of Marco Benevento Trio at Megalomaniacs Ball 2011 in New Orleans over Jazz Fest. In addition to giving us the lowdown on the Apes reunion, we get the scoop on a half-dozen of his super-dope bands. John breaks down a bit of basic history and the musical/cultural impact of classic and contemporary cumbia/chicha styles. He reflects on how they've been interpreted/expounded upon since breaking through stateside some years ago. A friend for a dozen years, this pod conversation is many moons in the making. Give Thanks 4 John Speice!
- 0:00 - episode 097 preview
- 3:00 - Golden Road Gathering
- 5:00 - Four Peaks Medicinals
- 6:00 - Bub & Pop Podcast plug
- 7:15 - The Upful Update
- 14:00 - introducing JOHN SPEICE
- 16:00 - INTERVIEW - Speice [73m]
- 1:28:30 - introducing JOHNNY WOODSTOCK
- 1:31:10 - INTERVIEW - Woodstock [56m]
- 2:27:00 - afterglow: SCOTT T. Salutes BOB WEIR
Johnny Woodstock is a radio personality/programmer and music enthusiast/historian who hails from Jerzadelphia, currently located in Dallas, formerly based outta New Orleans. We trace similar roots coming of age in the Philly area Grateful Dead/Phish scenes dating back over 30 years ago, Johnny Woodstock dubbed me many of my first Dead tapes. Host of "Sounds of New Orleans" on KNON NOW, the digital streaming sister station of KNON 89.3 FM. His show focuses on the "Crescent City magic" like brass bands, Second-Line rhythms, NOLA funk, Mardi Gras Indian music, plus Interviews with New Orleans legends. Prior to moving to Texas, Woodstock hosted "Midnight Music" on the world-renowned New Orleans station WWOZ 90.7 FM. Johnny is father to MaryElla Woodstock, who joins the pod for a quick check in: she’s KNON's youngest DJ (at age 10) hosting "Kidz Star Radio". She frequently assisted her father on his shows before launching her own. During his stint in NOLA, Johnny managed the box office at the legendary Blue Nile nightclub on Frenchmen Street. Eventually found his soulmate Tiffany through mutual pal Mike DIllon, a year later they made MaryElla, before eventually decamping to Dallas to live merrily ever after. Find out what’s in a nickname, and the colorful, heartwarming story of a pretty great guy.
At the conclusion, Johnny says goodbye to famed Philly radio DJ & Deadhead legend Pierre Robert [WMMR], followed by some words on the dearly departed Bob Weir. The episode wraps with a heartfilling, tear-jerking purge from the grate Scott T., ruminating on the essence and energy that defined Cowboy Bobby, the mysterious and mystical Spirit of the Suwannee, and the unquestionable, transformational power of a song.
John Speice links
Johnny Woodstock links
- Sounds Of New Orleans with Johnny Woodstock on KNON NOW
- Johnny Woodstock : Spiritual Chaos album
- KNON's Mary Ella Woodstock Is Now on the Air. She's 8.
recent B.Getz appearances:
- In Search of D’Angelo - Delta Bravo Observation Team w/BG [2/26]
- Peace & Lovecast - Ode to Genius [D’Angelo ep w/ BG segment [2/26]
- Behind the Dopey - BG talks RHCP on Dopey Podcast - 4/26
CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS
Four Peaks Medicinals
Golden Road Gathering
BISS LIST
AARON SCHWARTZ ART
LAZYMOON DESIGN for promo/poster art needs
Support the Upful LIFE
Send B.G. a coupla' dollas 4 makin U holla!
EMAIL the SHOW
PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW on Apple Podcasts
Theme Song: "Mazel Tov"- CALVIN VALENTINE
![096: lespecial - A Year In The Life ft. RORY DOLAN, LUKE BEMAND, JONNY G, w/ YHETI [LIMINOID], + BRET PERETZ [P4 TM]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/a_year_in_the_life_of_1080_x_1080_px_7bqmq_300x300.png)
Feb 24, 2026
Feb 24, 2026
3hr 5 min
Episode 096 welcomes three-headed prog-tronic hydra lespecial, plus enigmatic bass-wizard Yheti, for an expansive deep dive into their mind-bending collaborative portal - LIMINOID. Framed through the lens of "A Year in the Life of lespecial," the conversations chronicle a monumental run from Jam Cruise 21 in Feb.2025, thru the LIMINOID experience, then NYE marking their 20th anniversary since forming as high-schoolers in the woods of Connecticut, before looking towards the future. This episode orbits LIMINOID’s debut The Outernet, an idiosyncratic sonic tapestry and brilliantly-bizarre concept album where the searing precision of Rory Dolan, Luke Bemand, and Jonny G is masterfully manipulated by the surgical, mad scientist sound design of Yheti. Ep.096 finishes with Tales of a Tour Manager featuring Bret Peretz [Pigeons Playing Ping Pong].
- 00:00 - Ep.096 preview
- 03:30 - check out Four Peaks Medicinals
- 04:30 - Golden Road Gathering
- 05:45 - The Upful Update
- 09:15 - Intro: a year in the life of lespecial
Interviews - 13:15 - Rory Dolan, Luke Bemand, Jonny G - Jam Cruise, Feb‘25
- 52:15 - Yheti & Jonny G - December '25
- 1:17:00 - Rory - Feb '26
- 1:39:45 - Luke - Feb '26
- 2:03:30 - Jonny G - Feb '26
- 2:28:30 - Tales of a TM ft. Bret Peretz (P4) - July ’25
lespecial: A Year In The Life begins on the ragey open seas, as B.Getz connects with all three members of lespecial while aboard Jam Cruise in Feb. 2025. This Day 5 cabin summit at the tail end of this floating carnival captures the fellas [Rory Dolan - drums/vox, Luke Bemand - bass/synths, Jonny G - guitar/synths, vox] reflecting on the boat’s bombastic musical escapades, playing with (friends of the pod) Alex Wasily, Mike Dillon and Skerik, Rory’s Primus audition, introducing new music onstage, revisiting “Cannibal Holocaust”, spotlighting their relationship with Yheti and a forthcoming collaboration at the time still in its infancy.
The narrative shifts to a focused deep dive in early December 2025 with Yheti, plus a little more color from Jonny G. Since it was always his baby, BG looks to Tyler Yheti to properly unpack the modus operandi behind the LIMINOID endeavor. Explore the creation of The Outernet, how they navigated the "liminal space" between organic instrumentation and avant-garde electronics. This segment highlights the brilliance of the concept, recalls initial challenges performing this project live (see - Mishawaka in May 2025), the tricks and tools required to bring this genre-schitzo robot to life - both in studio and then onstage, and creating a new hybrid strain of intoxicating, brain-splattering sound art that exists beyond traditional boundaries.
The saga continues: a series of individual conversations with Rory, Luke, and Jonny from early Feb. 2026. We complete this podcast revolution around the sun, honor 20 years of hometown buddies who made good, and look towards their mighty bright immediate future. These one-on-one sessions allow for a more granular peek into personal growth, interband dynamics, and creative philosophies as they recognize a brotherhood that has kept them bonded since teenage garage band glory. We amp the stoke for lespecial's long-awaited return to West Coast's burnin' shores on the cryptically-titled Tentacle Difficulties tour. Behold this monumental, DIY evolution from small-town Connecticut proggy power trio to a genre-blurring, frontal-lobe leviathan known to us mere mortals as lespecial.
For an episode chaser B.Getz checks in with an old friend in Bret Peretz, a connection rooted at Spirit of Suwannee Music Park years ago. The longtime Tour Manager for Pigeons Playing Ping Pong has worked many jobs behind the scenes over the course of a decade-plus. Several months back, Bret opened up about his beautiful journey from the hotel hospitality industry and nearly joining the Coast Guard, humble backstage beginnings all the way to the P4 gig at the heart of contemporary jam scene success.
ViBE Junkie Jam
lespecial - "Boundary Dissolution”
Suwannee Hulaween 2023
lespecial's signature blend of “heavy future groove” combines headbanging metal riffage and surgical rhythmic precision with bone shaking 808s, sub synths and ethereal vocal stylings for a dance floor that welcomes moshing, dancing and hip swaying alike. Listeners are taken on a journey to the musical netherworld through esoteric soundscapes punctuated by raw, primal power.
LIMINOID is a musical entity formed through the integration of data streams from Yheti and lespecial, two distinct sonic architects. Yheti orchestrates the sonic experiment while lespecial contributes live instrumentation encoded with rhythmic complexity. Analysis of live performance recordings reveals high variability and dynamic modulation of energy states. Audience response patterns indicate elevated engagement during improvisational sequences. Conclusion: LIMINOID functions as a high-intensity auditory experiment, optimized for real-time adaptation and multi-genre convergence without reliance on predefined constraints. System recommends further observation. Their debut live performance was May 2025 at Mishawaka Amphitheater in Bellvue, CO. 2025 debut LP ‘The Outernet’ is a 12 track concept album that explores the liminal space between humanity and technology. The group performed at several festivals and a short tour in November 2025.
- RORY DOLAN Interview w/ BG about Primus audition. March 2025
- Upful LIFE 2025: Favorite Records & More! [LIMINOID review inside]
- Jonny G on The Upful LIFE Podcast - Ep.40
- Slaytanic Panic: lespecial’s Wet ‘N’ Wild NorCal Debut
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![095: OTIS McDONALD, DERRICK 'Smoker' FREEMAN [SOUL Brass Band, Shadow People Pod], PIET DALMOLEN](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/ep_095_9_a0h59_300x300.png)
Jan 19, 2026
Jan 19, 2026
3hr 15 min
Your boy is back from paternity hiatus with another banger! Preposterously prolific San Francisco composer, producer, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist OTIS McDONALD is finally here. Hallelujah! Gov't name Joe Bagale, Otis has turned Hyde Street’s Studio D — a hallowed sacred ground in the annals of funk/rock/hip-hop history — into a potent personal laboratory where he generates/facilitates a steady flow of ridiculously dope records. The in-demand music man slides through episode 095 for a lengthy, illuminating upful discussion; BG also checks back in with Derrick 'Smoker' Freeman [SOUL Brass Band, Shadow People Podcast]; and later introduces rising NorCal guitarist/solo artist Piet Dalmolen.
- 0:00 - ep.095 preview
- 3:00 - SOUL Brass Band - NorCal run late January
- 4:00 - BISS List - Bay Area fan hub/newsletter
- 5:45 - The UPFUL Update
- 12:00 - introducing OTIS McDONALD
- 15:15 - INTERVIEW - Otis [117m]
- 2:12:15 - DERRICK 'Smoker' FREEMAN
- 2:28:00 - Introducing/Interview: PIET DALMOLEN [30m]
- 2:58:15 - Afterglow x ViBE Junkie Jam
Otis McDonald released an original track every Friday for three years during the pandemic, though he since pumped the brakes to every third week. In addition, the gifted producer/engineer and sideman has delivered assorted crucial collabs with the likes of Eric Krasno, Nicholas Payton, Aloe Blacc, Wil Blades, Charlie Hunter, among others. Across two-plus decades in the Bay Area, he's worked extensively with scene stalwarts Jazz Mafia, Atta Kid, and their various spinoffs/side trips; Bagale even logged a couple years fronting an iteration of Mickey Hart Band on keys, guitar, and lead vocals.
ViBE Junkie Jam
Otis McDonald "I Can't Stand [we can't stop]"
OTIS McDONALD
website, YouTube, IG, Bandcamp
SOUL Brass Band - IG
The Shadow People Podcast
- Upful LIFE 2025: Favorite Records & More!
9th annual comprehensive compendium w/ reviews, playlists, purchase links - Spotify book - Mood Music by Liz Pelly
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LAZYMOON DESIGN for promo/poster art needs
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Oct 30, 2025
Oct 30, 2025
4hr 1 min
with very special guests:
- 16:30 - jay smooth
- 53:30 - dan charnas
- 1:01:25 - ursula rucker
- 1:29:55 - nikki glaspie
- 1:47:50 - eric krasno
- 2:28:00 - funk it blog shoutout
- 2:31:35 - d.j. williams
- 2:37:05 - otis mcdonald
- 2:43:50 - mista vee
- 2:52:40 - viveca hawkins <3
- 2:59:10 - fede pecoraro [ECHT!]
- 3:04:30 - jonny g [lespecial]
- 3:08:10 - adam spangler
- 3:17:00 - bombastic
- 3:23:25 - sari jordan
- 3:32:35 - derrick 'smoker' freeman
- 3:39:40 - jon hammer
An afghan of reverential storytelling. FOUR heart-filling hours brimming with memories, love letters, & gratitude reflections from a blessed & benevolent collection of souls who've touched my life across the years & miles. We all share a profound reverence for the man born Michael Eugene Archer. Large UP each crucial contributor for their sacred offerings to this show. This passion purge in podcast form is my deepest bow.
Give Thanks 4 D'Angelo. May the four winds blow you safely home. We'll be loving you always. -bg
D'Angelo In Memoriam: Thank You For Talking To Me Michael.
B.Getz via Live For Live Music:
ViBE Junkie Jamz
CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR - AARON SCHWARTZ ART!
LAZYMOON DESIGN for promo/poster art needs!
Send B.G. a few dollas 4 makin U holla!
![093: POLYRHYTHMICS vol.2 [Ben Bloom - gtr, Grant Schroff aka Champagne Bubblebath - drums]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/ben_Grant_pod_093_93q9o_300x300.png)
Oct 4, 2025
Oct 4, 2025
1hr 57 min
Episode 093 welcomes back POLYRHYTHMICS, the fantastically-funky septet primarily based in Seattle, but these days steadily spreading their net further and wider than ever before. BEN BLOOM (along w/ bassist Jason Gray) appeared on Ep.059 in 2022, now the guitarist/co-founder returns to chop it up once again, this time with drummer/co-founder GRANT SCHROFF (aka Champagne Bubblebath) also in the mix.
- 0:00 - ep.093 preview
- 03:25 - Sponsor- AARON SCHWARTZ ART
- 06:55 - Sponsor - LAZYMOON DESIGN
- 08:50- The Upful Update & B.G's BIG NEWS!
- 19:45 - introducing Ben and Grant from POLYRHYTHMICS
- 24:00 - INTERVIEW - Polyrhythmics [71 min]
- 1:34:45 - afterglow & ViBE Junkie Jamz
Late 2025 brings busy, fertile, exciting times for the erstwhile groove merchants as they mark 15 years in the game, and we celebrate the release of their fiery new LP 'Life From Below'. They're hitting the road just as the pod goes to press, the boys ready to bless up some long dormant markets in the Northeast, Southeast, and beyond. We get the scoop on the blazin' new joints, before delving into some personal developents like how Bloom recently relocated back East with his family. The guys discuss the new geographical band dynamics, and how it affects the hang, writing, rehearsal, travel, and overall Polyrhythmics' modus operandi. We go inside the lab and look into studio sessions for the latest record, hear some philosophies on improvising, unpack band interpersonal communications, reflections on collaborating with vocalist Adryon de Leon, the forthcoming Champagne Bubblebath mixtape with Gray and searing Seattle axeslinger Jimmy James, plus a whole lot more! -bg
Bio:
Seattle-based Polyrhythmics are celebrating 15 years of sonic exploration with the release of their highly anticipated new album, Life from Below. Since forming in 2010, this seven-piece powerhouse has redefined instrumental music with a sound that blends funk, soul, psychedelic rock, R&B, and Afrobeat into a kaleidoscope of rhythm and groove. Known for their dynamic live performances and innovative compositions, the band has earned a reputation as one of the most captivating acts on the contemporary music scene.
This year’s Life from Below marks an exciting new chapter for Polyrhythmics, delivering a fresh collection of grooves infused with the bold creativity and signature tight-knit musicianship that fans have come to expect. As they celebrate their 15th anniversary, the band reflects on a decade-and-a-half of musical evolution, countless miles on the road, and a loyal community of listeners that continues to grow.
Polyrhythmics website, BandCamp, Instagram
ViBE Junkie Jamz
"Mayo Con Yayo" - Polyrhythmics
"Humpin' Around" -- The Nth Power GAP Band Tribute ft. Eric Gales and Nicholas Payton [9/21/25 Tipitina's in New Orleans for DJ Soul Sister's 50th]
"New Life" - Blind Melon - demo 1995
CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR - AARON SCHWARTZ ART!
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![092: MORiLLO [global-bass producer/DJ] + AIN'T SISTERS [Alt-Folk/Rock]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/Ain_t_Sisters_2_767qk_300x300.png)
Sep 12, 2025
Sep 12, 2025
1hr 51 min
Episode 092 is all about the underground, from sea to mighty sea; welcome MORiLLO and AIN'T SISTERS! Among my preferred dancefloor generals on the decks across the past decade, it’s high time to tap in with The Dub Cartographer, global bass sorcerer MORiLLO down in L.A. Gov’t name Zach Morillo, the Groundation drummer pulls double-duty as a dynamite producer-dj and modern-day dub maestro. My man was kind enough to share some stoke, perspective, co-conspirators, and crucial creative processes surrounding his intoxicating latest full-length release, and this exciting new collaborative chapter in an ever-evolving electronic dance music career.
Listen to MORiLLO - The Dub Cartographer
Get the 411 on Atlanta-based, SOSMP faves AIN’T SISTERS. Frontpersons Barb Carbon and Arrie Bozeman join the pod from the deep Southeast, an insightful, humorous, nostalgic chat to discuss their unique connection, band origin/journey, their music & message, and the incomparable energy native to the Spirit of Suwannee. Across the past few years, it's been recommended I check out this white-hot band of badasses in ATL, by way of numerous folks in the know. As such, it was hella cool to finally hear their colorful story, karmic chemistry, and punky alt-folk rock musical adventuring; reflections and recollections heard straight from the Ain’t Sisters’ mouths.
- 0:00 - ep.092 preview
- 3:00 - SPONSOR - Aaron Schwartz Art
- 6:20 - The Upful Update
- 10:10 - introducing MORiLLO
- 13:20 - INTERVIEW w/ MORiLLO [40min]
- 53:40 - introducing AIN'T SISTERS
- 56:30 - INTERVIEW w/ Barb and Arrie [46min]
- 1:42:30 - Afterglow x ViBE Junkie Jamz
MORiLLO bio-
With a desire to expand his opportunities across the music world, Zach moved to Los Angeles in 2012. He quickly found work as a touring drummer for internationally acclaimed artists RHYE, Childish Gambino, and Groundation and has traveled the world performing at the biggest and best festivals and venues like Coachella, Red Rocks, and The Hollywood Bowl. In addition, he has been creating and developing his own unique sound and identity through music production and djing. As ‘MORiLLO’, Zach has released a multitude of projects on established labels such as Gravitas Recordings, Muti Music, High Vibe Records, Tribal Trap, Hybrid Trap, Simplify, and Play Me Records. As he continues to build his project, Zach’s music has been celebrated by music lovers and DJ's on stages and at festivals around the world. MORiLLO released his latest LP The Dub Cartographer in summer 2025.
Ain’t Sisters bio -
Fun, eclectic folk rock. Fronted by the deliciously androgynous duo Arrie Bozeman and Barb Carbon, the Aints deliver high-energy performances of their wildly diverse original music. Joined by the hardest working men in rock n Roll, Richie Jones on the Boom Chick thwackita whackita, and Justin Boudreau, aka BooDreamy, masterfully holding down the rhythm section and making everybody swoon with their gorgeous licks. Think Indigo Girls meets Dream Theater but with a little Birdcloud in the mix.
ViBE Junkie Jamz
MORiLLO x Peace Sine "Tribal Dub"
Ain't Sisters 11/11/22 Tree House
CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR - AARON SCHWARTZ ART!
VENMO Bee a few dollas 4 makin U holla!
![091: BLAIR JACKSON [Jerry Garcia Biographer/Grateful Dead Historian]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/BLAIR_JACKSON8833m_300x300.png)
Jul 31, 2025
Jul 31, 2025
2hr 57 min
It's not every day a decorated Grateful Dead historian/Jerry Garcia biographer slides thru the crib for a nearly 3-hour interview spread across 2 separate sessions. Such was the case over a few days in July when BLAIR JACKSON visited with your humble narrator right here in the ViBE Junkie Studios in Oakland, Ca! Author of 1999's extraordinary, bar-setting bio GARCIA: An American Life; publisher of pioneering GD fan-zine The Golden Road; journalist with BAM Magazine; author of The Music Never Stopped; co-author of This Is All A Dream We Dreamed (with David Gans), blogger at Dead.net; among many other endeavors. This here OG is nothing short of a pillar in chronicling all things GD culture, a deeply-researched and articulate authority on that lovable fat man and how the music played the band. All that said, this episode is bound to cover just a little more ground!
- 0:00 - episode 091 preview
- 3:00- Sponsor: AARON SCHWARTZ ART
- 6:30 - The Upful Update
- 11:30 - introducing BLAIR JACKSON
- 18:20 - INTERVIEW - Blair Jackson [133 min]
- 2:31:15 - Afterglow x ViBE Junkie JAMZ
Eternal thanks to the grate Blair Jackson for his precious time, energy, integrity, thoughtful recollections & personal reflections.
ViBE JUNKIE JAMZ
“Welcome to the Basement” - RECONSTRUCTION
3/7/79 Rancho Nicasio, CA
“Crazy Fingers” - GRATEFUL DEAD
8/15/75 - Great American Music Hall, SF
CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR - AARON SCHWARTZ ART!
VENMO B.Getz a few dollas 4 makin U holla!
![090: SHAWN SETARO [COMPLEX] - Unpacking the DIDDY Trial](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3558807/episode_090adjlu_300x300.png)
Jul 23, 2025
Jul 23, 2025
1hr 57 min
Episode 090 taps in with renowned hip-hop culture journalist SHAWN SETARO who recently spent 2 WILD Manhattan months courtside at the Sean "DIDDY" Combs trial reporting daily for COMPLEX. Definitely some different topical topography juxtaposed to the norm for this program. Please rest assured, this is a serious conversation; an insightful, illuminating, sobering look into the lengthy legal proceedings & celebrity circus surrounding this salacious sordid saga, and a sad, scary, depraved drug-addled cuck at the center of the chaos he created.
- 0:00 - episode 090 preview
- 3:15- Sponsor: AARON SCHWARTZ ART- LETT US PLAY
- 6:30 - The Upful Update
- 11:00 - introducing SHAWN SETARO
- 15:15 - Trigger Warning - SA/DV
- 16:45 - INTERVIEW - Shawn Talks DIDDY Trial [85 min]
- 1:42:15 - Afterglow x ViBE Junkie JAMZ
Sean "Diddy" Combs fka "Puff Daddy" - founder of Bad Boy Records, Sean John clothing, and resident pop-culture megalomaniac - was involved in a high-profile federal criminal case where he faced charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution. His former partner Cassie Ventura, once an artist on his label, was the star witness for the prosecution. After a seven-week trial, a jury found him guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but acquitted him of the sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy charges.
BIO: Currently a freelance journalist after many years on staff with Complex, Shawn Setaro has written for The Atlantic, Vibe, GQ, and Forbes, and is the writer and reporter on the Spotify/Complex podcasts 'Infamous' and 'Complex Subject.' Prior to Complex, Setaro worked for Genius.com and hosted The Cipher, a podcast featuring interviews with 250 legendary figures in hip-hop. Dummy Boy: Tekashi 6ix9ine and The Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods was his first book. Shawn first appeared on The Upful LIFE Podcast episode 052, in Dec. 2021.
- Shawn Setaro - author page COMPLEX
- German article Shawn references/gets quoted
- THE CIPHER SHOW pod archives!
- Complex Subject: Pop Smoke [Shawn Setaro hosted pod series]
- Dummy Boy: Tekashi 6ix9ine and The Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods by Shawn Setaro [Complex Presents]
- Shawn Setaro on Grammy.com
- Shawn Setaro IG
Vibe Junkie JAMZ
"24 Hrs. to Live"
Mase ft. The Lox, Black Rob & DMX
“The Last Huzzah (Remix)”
Mr. Muthafuckin eXquire ft. Despot, Das Racist, Danny Brown, EL-P
VENMO B.Getz a few dollas 4 makin U holla!
