Center Stage: An Abandoned Albums Podcast

Episode 607 - Dan Lord & Adam Guthrie of Pain and Salvo

Pain was formed in Tuscaloosa, Alabama in 1994 by friends Dan Lord, Mark "Pose" Milewicz, and Adam Guthrie. Guthrie was a guitarist-songwriter, Milewicz played bass guitar, and Lord became the band's songwriter and lead singer. 
Pain played music variously described as pop punk, punk rock, and ska. However, in February 1997, lead singer Dan Lord took to the band's website to categorically deny that Pain was a ska band: "There are a lot of styles we emulate and ain't none of 'em from the island of Jamaica. So please, PLEASE, unless you're just havin' some fun with us, don't call us a ska band." 
The band released four albums, toured the world, and produced original music for the mid-nineties reboot of the kids cartoon, Jabberjaw.
In 2000, while Pain was talking with interested record labels, Lord shut down Pain to pursue his religious calling. Lord received his Master of Theology from the University of Dallas, married, and became an author and father before reconnecting with Guthrie in 2018.
In the years leading up to 2018, Lord continued writing music and found that most of his new material was best suited as Pain songs. He and Guthrie agreed that these new tracks should be recorded and released. When Milewicz declined to return, Lord and Guthrie felt it was inappropriate to call the group Pain without one of its co-founders... and Salvo was born. 
The new band released their first album, Off the Charts, in 2019. In August of 2022, Salvo released The Traveler. 
Dan Lord and Adam Guthrie sat down with Geoff and Keith to talk about their career... and what's next for the band.
LINKS:
Salvo on Bandcamp
Salvo on Facebook
Salvo on Instagram
Salvo on YouTube
Salvo on the Web
History (so far) on Wiki
Dan Lord Newsletter

Episode 606 - Karina Denike

You can't pigeonhole or stereotype Karina Denike. Don't even try.
Perhaps best known as the dynamic and talented vocalist of the renowned ska-punk band, Dance Hall Crashers, she's had a career that has seen her genre hop like Dr. Who time travels. 
The Dance Hall Crashers quickly gained recognition in the ska and punk scenes with their infectious melodies and powerful live performances. Karina's captivating vocals and charismatic stage presence played a crucial role in defining the band's sound.
Over the years, Dance Hall Crashers released a string of successful albums, including Lockjaw and Honey, I'm Homely! Their music, a fusion of punk, ska, and pop, resonated with audiences and left an indelible mark on the California ska-punk scene.
Karina's contribution to the band extended beyond her vocal prowess. She was a driving force in crafting the band's lyrics, often delving into themes of love, empowerment, and self-discovery.
Her solo career is full of original tunes that are a haunting combo of 30's seaside shanties, 60's girl group harmony, and noir soundtracks. Karina also lends sher skills to bands like The Cottontails, Mr. Lonesome & The Bluebelles, Ralph Carney's serious jass Project, and is currently on tour with NOFX.
Karina stopped by to talk with Geoff and Keith about those days as a Dance Hall Crasher and everything she's done since.
LINKS
Karina's Web Site
Karina on Bandcamp
Karin on IG
Karina on Spotify
Dance Hall Crashers on Spotify
 

Episode 605 - Rhythm Corps

Keith had the incredible opportunity to chat with 3/4 of the band Rhythm Corps - Michael Persh (vocals), Richie Lovsin (drums), and Greg Apro (guitars). This interview was a deep dive into their musical journey, creative process, and their work. 
When they released their debut album Common Ground in 1988, it almost cost Keith his job as the assistant manager of Record World. Turns out his boss took issue with him playing the album 3 to 4 times a shift. 
During our conversation, the guys explored the band's evolution, and the guys were candid and shared some great anecdotes about their inspirations, collaborations, and the challenges they faced in the rapidly changing industry of the 1980s.
The reason this album resonates so much with Keith (and now the rest of us around HQ) is that their dedication to crafting unique sounds and thought-provoking lyrics was, and remains, inspiring.
This album, and the band, are the reason we do Abandoned Albums. Rhythm Corps are the real deal. 
This conversation with Rhythm Corps exemplified the power of music to spark important conversations and bring people together. All of us at Thunderlove HQ think that after you listen it's gonna leave you with a newfound appreciation for this remarkable band.
LINKS
Rhythm Corps on SpotifyRhythm Corps on FBRhythm Corps on IGSpencer Proffer Ben GrossThe RomanticsPasha Records

Episode 604 - Darren Jessee

Darren Jessee is a gifted singer-songwriter and troubadour whose captivating melodies and poignant lyrics have earned him a dedicated following in the world of indie and folk music.
Darren's songwriting prowess was evident as the drummer for the critically acclaimed band Ben Folds Five. The band's fusion of alternative rock and piano-driven pop produced hits like "Brick" and "Song for the Dumped," and gained the band a loyal fan base.  
After he departed from Ben Folds Five, he formed the band Hotel Lights. Formed in 2000, Hotel Lights released a series of albums that allowed Jessee to explore his songwriting in greater depth. Hotel Lights' music, often characterized by its contemplative themes and heartfelt narratives, has struck a chord with fans who appreciate Jessee's ability to craft songs that are both introspective and universally relatable.
His enduring commitment to his craft and his ability to create music that touches the soul and speaks to the heart make him a respected figure in the singer-songwriter genre.
Darren stopped by Thunderlove Studio to chat with Keith about Hotel Lights, his solo career, and the release of his new album, Central Bridge.
LINKS
Darren Jessee on Bandcamp
Darren on Spotify
Hotel Lights on Spotify
Darren on IG
Darren on Bar None Records
Darren Jessee Linktree
Bar None Records
Bill Fox
The Jacobites Band
**Special thanks to Mark at Bar None Records**
 
 

Episode 603 - Hannah Marcus

Hannah Marcus has carved a distinctive niche in the world of music with her deeply emotive and atmospheric compositions. Her unique musical journey has been marked by a fearless exploration of sonic landscapes that blend folk, rock, and experimental elements, delivering hauntingly beautiful melodies infused with raw emotion.
She’s released a series of albums that showcase her songwriting prowess and her ability to convey complex emotions through her music. Her lyrics are often bravely introspective and deeply personal, inviting listeners into her world.
Albums like Black Hole Heaven and Desert Farmers capture the human condition and are poignant reflections of her storytelling abilities.
What sets Marcus apart is her willingness to push the boundaries of conventional songwriting. She is known for her experimentation with soundscapes and textures, incorporating elements of avant-garde, folk, and rock into her music; her compositions are both ethereal and grounded, creating a hypnotizing sonic landscape.
Beyond her work as a solo artist, Hannah Marcus has collaborated with a diverse range of musicians and bands, including The Coctails, Hem, and indie rock icon Mark Eitzel. These collaborations have further enriched her musical palette, allowing her to explore new horizons and evolve as an artist.
In a music industry often driven by trends and commercialism, Hannah Marcus stands out as an artist dedicated to authenticity and emotional resonance. Her music transcends boundaries, speaking directly to the heart and soul of those who have the privilege of experiencing it. With each composition, she invites us to embark on a sonic journey through the depths of human emotion, making her a true luminary in the world of music.
LINKS
Hannah Marcus on SpotifyHannah Marcus on BandcampHannah Marcus on Bar-None RecordsWesleyan UniversityRick MoodyAmerican Music ClubBar None Records
 

Episode 602 - Daniel Chavis of The Veldt

Thunderlove Studio is less a physical place and more a state of mind.
What a treat it was to welcome Daniel Chavis, lead singer of The Veldt, into Thunderlove Studio.
Anywho, you may or may not have heard of The Veldt. From where I sit, you should have. As Daniel and I chatted, there may have been several reasons they may not have achieved the type of widespread commercial success back in the early to mid-90s - the least of which is their sound.
The Veldt - the band name taken from a Ray Bradbury short story - is often categorized as a “shoegaze” band. Pitchfork included their 1994 classic Afrodisiac in their “Top 50 Shoegaze Albums of All Time” list.
Over the past month, The Veldt has released a couple of songs bourne from those initial Robin Guthrie sessions - “The Everlasting Gobstopper” and “Aurora Borealis” - on their Bandcamp page. Daniel told me that they’re hoping to drop the whole Guthrie-produced set at the end of September.
Discovering The Veldt has been a real treat and they’re exactly the kind of band that makes this Abandoned Albums journey so much fun. I got to talk with Daniel about the band’s origin, being a black rock band, the influence of Afrodisiac, and WTF “White Music For Black People” means.
Gummies were eaten.Stories were told.Bonds were made.
LINKS
The Veldt on Bandcamp
The Veldt on IG
The Veldt on Supertape
Ray Bradury The Veldt short story audio
Vice article from 2016
The Guardian Article from 2016 
MTV Profile from +/- 1991
David Bowie MTV Interview

Episode 601 - The Dollyrots

Come one, come all, and get ready for an exhilarating journey into the world of one of the most exciting, enduring, and definitely the hardest-working bands around. 
Ladies and gentlemen, we open Season Six with The Dollyrots!
Kelly Ogden and Luis Cabezas, the dynamic duo behind the band, have been igniting stages and eardrums worldwide with their infectious melodies, unapologetic lyrics, and boundless energy for over two decades.
And on this episode, we have the distinct privilege of delving into the vibrant and rebellious world of The Dollyrots.
Keith and Geoff peel back the layers of their remarkable career. They travel through time, tracing their humble beginnings, the wild ride they've had so far, and their unwavering commitment to the DIY ethos.. and each other. 
The Dollyrots have forged their path, and their story is a testament to passion, persistence, and the undeniable power of love - the love of music and for each other. 
Join us as we chat with Kelly and Luis about their influences, the creative process behind their music, and the evolution of their sound throughout the years. Get ready for some behind-the-scenes anecdotes, memorable tour tales, and insights into their latest projects.
So, whether you're a dedicated Dollyrots fan or a newcomer to their sonic universe, grab your favorite headphones, turn up the volume, and prepare for an intimate and candid conversation with The Dollyrots themselves. This is a podcast you won't want to miss!
LINKS
The Dollyrots website
The Dollyrots on Bandcamp
The Dollyrots on IG
The Dollyrots on Spotify
The Dollyrots on FB
The Dollyrots on YouTube
Wicked Cool Records on Bandcamp

Episode 512 - Singer/Songwriter Anders Parker

We’re closing out the season with a big ‘un… per usual!
This week it’s the singer/songwriter/guitar slinger with an almost insatiable intellectual and musical wanderlust - Anders Parker.
He entered the scene in the mid 90’s when a 4-track recording he made in his Portland, OR apartment, titled Man of Sin, got passed around. Anders then formed a band and began walking a trail that has defined his life, as you’ll hear.  
As the leader/songwriter/guitarist/multi-instrumentalist of the band Varnaline, Parker toured and eventually released 5 albums under that name… and Anders entered the indie music lexicon.
As all things do, Varnaline ran its course, beginning phase two of Anders's artistry - a phase that has seen him exploring both his own solo work, collaborating with folks like Jay Farrar of Son Volt, and even adding music to some of the late Woody Guthrie’s songs. The resulting album New Multitudes found him collaborating with Jim James, Jay Farrar, and Will Johnson and remains a fan favorite.
The interview would’ve spanned two or three hours in order to cover everything Anders has accomplished in his career… and continues to accomplish. 
Geoff and Keith spoke with Anders about a fair chunk of his career and about his new album, The Black Flight, which drops on Friday, August 11.
Pull up a chair, relax, and discover one helluva great artist - by every measure and definition of the word.
LINKS
 Anders Parker Online 
Anders on Bandcamp
Anders on IG
Anders on YouTube