Dive Bar Music Club

Protest Folk to Trap Beats to Bedroom Pop and WTF Taylor?

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 03:33:00 -0400

This week on Dive Bar Music Club, we roll straight into our ever-evolving music discovery, joined by: Caitlin Cary, Amanda Miles, Kim Ware, Sloane Spencer, and Rachel Cholst.

We kick things off with a surprise protest song from Caitlin, collaborating with Chris Stamey, on a track sharing the words on the Statue of Liberty. From there, the conversation opens up into a mixtape of current obsessions, weaving from the dreamy introspection of Leith Ross to the throwback swagger of T.I.

Along the way, there’s laughter, a little friendly debate about "super double deluxe" reissues (we're rolling our eyes at you, Taylor), and plenty of real talk about why music hits so deeply. So pour yourself something good, pull up a chair, and join us for a lively exchange of songs, stories, and the shared thrill of finding your next favorite song.

Catch Our Tastemaker Playlists

Bands Featured in Episode 6

Courtney Barnett
Duke Ellington
Ida
Will Johnson
Johnny Blue Skies/Sturgill Simpson (vinyl/CD only)
Jon Lindsay
Kendra Morris
Ratboys
Leith Ross
T.I.

The Regulars

Musicians, Photographers, and Other Cool People and Places Mentioned

Recommended If You Like

dive bar music club, 90s alt rock, music podcast, emerging songwriters, cult band favorites, music playlists, protest music, singer-songwriter interviews, indie music recommendations, new music discovery, vinyl records, comfort music, live music discussions, music industry insights, alternative music culture, music nerds, music collaborations, music photography, zine culture, music trends

Welcome to the Amen Corner, R.E.M. Megafans, and Are Microtonal Instrumentals Even Better with a Gummy?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

Grab a stool at the Dive Bar Music Club, where host Sloane Spencer and Regulars Charles Hale and Nelson Gullett share their low-key, high-taste music selections. This week’s happy hour for music nerds dives deep into the miracle of the Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy's Life's Rich Pageant R.E.M. tour, where even Bobcat Goldthwait's opening set brought joy, much to their surprise. Between Charles’s treasure trove of new vinyl finds, ranging from the haunting Magnolia and Johnson Electric Co. 7" to the garage-rock grit of the Flamin' Groovies, and Nelson’s essential preview of the Big Ears Festival featuring lap-style guitar creative Yasmin Williams, the episode is a masterclass in crate-digging. It’s a passionate, defense of the weird, the instrumental, and the feel-good oldies that make being a music obsessive worth the effort.

Catch Our Tastemaker Playlists

Bands Featured in Episode 5

Venues and Festivals Mentioned

The 40 Watt Club, Athens, GA
Big Ears Festival, Knoxville, TN
Bijou Theatre, Knoxville, TN
Bonnaroo, Manchester, TN
Cat’s Cradle, Carrboro, NC
Tennessee Theatre, Knoxville, TN

The Regulars

Musicians, Photographers, and Other Cool People and Places Mentioned

Adam Smith
Alvin Youngblood Hart
American Aquarium
Amethyst Kiah
Apples in Stereo
Arooj Aftab
Backsliders
Ben Nichols
Beulah
Billy Allen and the Pollies
Blind Boys of Alabama
The Carolina Chocolate Drops
Charles Wesley Godwin
Chocolate Genius
Chris Porter
Chris Thile
Darrell Scott
The Devil Makes Three
The Glands
MJ Lenderman
Jason Molina
Jason Narducy
Jay Farrar
Jim Dickinson
Jim James
John Zorn
Johnny Blue Skies (Sturgill Simpson)
Ken Pomeroy
Luther Dickinson
Madison Cunningham
Magnolia Electric Co.
Marc Ribot
Michael Shannon
Molina and Johnson
Nels Cline
Neutral Milk Hotel
New Multitudes
Nirvana
Patti Smith
R.E.M.
Reggie Watts
Sam Amidon
Scott Avett
Sturgill Simpson
Sun Ra Arkestra
Sunny War
Tatiana Hargreaves
The 400 Unit
Thurston Moore
Waxahatchee
The Westerlies
Will Johnson
William Tyler
Wu Fei

Recommended If You Like

Dive Bar Music Club, music podcast, 90s alt rock, indie music recommendations, emerging songwriters, record store culture, festival music experiences, Sturgill Simpson new album, live music events, alternative music playlists, music nerd discussions, unique musical collaborations, Big Ears Festival, folk and Americana music, underground music scene, vinyl record collecting, local music highlights, new music discoveries, eclectic music tastes, passionate music discussions, R.E.M., Jason Narducy, Michael Shannon, Johnny Blue Skies

We Love a Good Cemetery, Mispronouncing Swedish Names, and Biker Bars in a Good Way

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

This week, Amanda Miles, Sloane Spencer, and Kim Ware settle in for a deeper conversation about the music getting us through the mess of current American politics. We start by talking about the long history of music and creativity in protest movements, sparked by Ann Powers’ article about where all the protest songs have gone lately, and whether they’ve actually disappeared or just taken new forms.

From there, we trade the songs currently living on repeat in our headphones. A theme quickly emerges: comfort. The kind of music that steadies you when everything feels beyond us. Think the emotional pull of Jason Isbell, the warm, lived-in sound of Waxahatchee, and the storytelling power that artists like Tyler Childers and Courtney Marie Andrews bring to the table.

Along the way we talk about that tricky balance in our listening habits right now, when you want music that lets you feel the anger, but also something that softens the edges of the day.

Pour yourself something good, settle in, and join us for a thoughtful, easy-going conversation full of sharp observations, a few laughs, and plenty of appreciation for the songs helping us cope, reset, and stay connected.

Catch Our Tastemaker Playlists

Bands Featured in Episode 4

Venues and Festivals Mentioned

Fest, Gainesville, FL
Shoals Fest, Muscle Shoals, AL
The Cave, Chapel Hill, NC
Coca Cola Amphitheater, Birmingham, AL
Neighborhood Theatre, Charlotte, NC
Orange Peel, Asheville, NC
Radio Room, Greenville, SC
Red Rocks, Morrison, CO
Tribbles, Piedmont, SC

The Regulars

Musicians & More Also Mentioned in this Episode

indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast,

, dive bar music club, 90s alt rock, emerging songwriters, indie americana music, protest music today, creativity in music, comfort music, vinyl records, music recommendations, Jason Isbell, Waxahachee, Tyler Childers, music playlists, live music experiences, female musicians, songwriting process, music festivals, music and mental health, southern roots music, music industry insights

A Good Day for The Clash, The Ann Powers Litmus Test, and Just Like Our Drinks, We'll Take Our Country Neat

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

It seems like it's a good time to play The Clash. Dive Bar Music Club is back and digging a little deeper this time. We’re diving into the crossroads of music and social awareness, sparked by the recent federal violence in Minneapolis. I’m Sloane Spencer, joined by Chad Cochran, the Nelson Gullett, and Charles Hale.

A couple of us are slightly under the weather this week, but we're psyched to chat about what we're listening to lately.

We’re still swapping our latest musical obsessions and what’s been living on our playlists, but today the conversation carries a little more weight. We’re talking about how music shows up when things get tense; how it pushes back, how it brings people together, and how artists turn frustration, grief, and defiance into something powerful and unifying. At the same time, we’re not forgetting what music also does best: giving us a breather, a release, a place to land when the world feels loud.

So settle in with us for thoughtful, unfiltered, interesting music conversation.

Catch Our Tastemaker Playlists

Bands Featured in Episode 3

Venues and Festivals Mentioned

Albino Skunk Music Festival, Greer, SC
Barley's, Knoxville, TN
Big Ears Festival, Knoxville, TN
Blue Plate Special, WDVX, Knoxville, TN
The Blue Room, Nashville, TN
Bubbapalooza, Atlanta, GA
First Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
Frank Brown Songwriting Festival
Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN
Little 5 Points Festival, Atlanta, GA
Nelsonville Music Festival, Nelsonville, OH
Star Bar, Atlanta, GA

The Regulars in Episode 3

Musicians Also Mentioned

13th Floor Elevators
Dave Alvin
Bad Bunny
Better Than Ezra
Carsie Blanton
The Blasters
BoyGenius
Billy Bragg
Peter Buck
Camper Van Beethoven
Ashley Capps
The Carter Family
Counting Crows
Chunklet (Henry Owings)
The Clash
Alice Coltrane
Cracker
JT Cure
Arrested Development
Lucy Dacus
Deacon Lunchbox
Drive-By Truckers
Bob Dylan
Grateful Dead
Billie Eilish
Billy Fields
Follow for Now
Will Fratesi
Marvin Gaye
The Jody Grind
Kelly Hogan
Japanese Breakfast
Jimmy Eat World
The Jompson Brothers
The Knitters
Victor Krummenacher
Lake Street Dive
MJ Lenderman
Barrett Martin
James McMurtry
The Minus 5
Nirvana
Joy Oladokun
J.S. Ondara
Robert Plant
Chuck Prophet
Pylon (Randy Bewley, Vanessa Briscoe Hay)
Pylon Reenactment Society
Rage Against the Machine
Redd and the Paper Flowers
The Replacements
Chappell Roan
Pharoah Sanders
Gregory Dean Smalley
Smoke
Bruce Springsteen
Mavis Staples
Chris Stapleton
The Steeldrivers
Taylor Swift
Jesse Sykes
Bill Taft (Chowder Shouters)
Chris Thile
Richard Thompson
The Toadies
Tuatara
Molly Tuttle
Waxahatchee
Weezer
Jesse Wells (the spectacular fiddler who plays with Tyler Childers)
Olivia Wolfe

Shamelessly Tagging Becky Warren on IG, Porter Wagoner On Psychedelics, and Evidently This Is a Philly Rock Podcast

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

This week, we’re disappearing down some serious rabbit holes. From the casual Aussie swagger of Bel Air Lip Bombs to the psychedelic sway of Alex Chilton’s cover of “Rubber Room,” the episode is a love letter to overlooked tracks that quietly demand a place in your rotation. Charles Hale, Sloane Spencer, Rachel Cholst, and Kim Ware come together like a carefully sequenced mixtape, swapping stories about their latest musical fixations and music Venn diagrams that overlap way too much and not at all. Punk-leaning jazz that used to be in a duo with a noted blues musician, and a lot of tiny touchpoints connecting us to the music. So throw on your headphones, pour yourself a drink, and sink into the rich, unpredictable soundscape of the Dive Bar Music Club.

Catch Our Tastemaker Playlists

Apple Music
Tidal

Bands Featured in Episode 2

Venues Mentioned

The 40 Watt Club, Athens, GA

The Regulars in Episode 2

Musicians Also Mentioned

Augusta Koch (Cayetana, Gladie)
The Baseball Project
Buffalo Nichols
Dan Auerbach (The Black Keys)
Dolly Parton
Emily Ray (Indigo Girls)
Florry
Geese
Gracie Abrams
Hurray for the Riff Raff
Indigo Girls
Jeff Rosenstock
Louis Armstrong
M. Ward
Nickel and Rose
Neko Case
Peter Buck
Porter Wagoner
R.E.M.
Replacements
Scott McCaughey
Self Esteem
SG Goodman
Steve Wynn
Sun Volt
Taylor Swift
Young Fresh Fellows

Recommended If You Like

Dive Bar Music Club, 90s alt rock, emerging songwriters, indie rock playlists, music podcasts, female vocalists in rock, Australian indie bands, Bel Air Lip Bombs, Alex Chilton, Big Star, record collecting, Americana music, Southern indie rock, music industry discussions, Jeff Rosenstock, indie music scenes, underground music recommendations, vinyl records, music discovery, music and mental health,

Automated Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:01.200 - 00:01:47.260

Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the guest hosts drop in and out, but the opinions are always passionate and the playlists loud. It's like cheers if everyone at the bar had a strong take on 90s alt rock or a suspicious number of burned CDs.

Around our table, you'll find an emerging touring songwriter, a former cult band favorite whose work since then is even more interesting.

I a portrait photographer with a not so secret metal penchant, a record store owner who learned about Swifties the hard way, a retired folk singer who regrets nothing, and a zine maker with more cool music projects than we can count.

We're all just here to share what we're currently obsessed with and maybe convince someone that, yes, that weird Icelandic synth folk band is worth a listen. Okay, that last one's probably me, Sloane Spencer. It's Dive Bar Music Club. Low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Well, hey, y', all.

It's Sloan Spencer, and we are back with another episode of Dive Bar Music Club. This time diving into a few new friends. We've got Charles Hale joining us today, Rachel Colst and Kim Ware.

Hope you all had a chance to listen to those introductory bio episodes so you can get to know a little bit about them.

And if you haven't had a chance to listen to any of our prior episodes, every time we have a show, we like to start it off with everyone sharing one of the three things they've been listening to lately. Now, because I get to be the ringleader of all the episodes, I'm going to sit this one out and just kind of act as cat wrangler.

And I'm going to let our guests talk about the music that has been on their playlist lately. So let's dive in with a new friend, Kim Ware. Hey, Kim, what have you been listening to lately?

Speaker B

00:01:48.180 - 00:02:50.010

So I have been listening to a lot of, like 20, 25 releases, right? And around the end of the year, I was trying to catch up on things that I was not able to get to earlier in the year.

And Bel Air Lip Balms was one of them. I think I had seen the name come up from time to time. It stood out because I was like, what is this?

Because at first I thought it was like Chapstick lip balm, but it's not. It turns out it's like a skateboard or something is where they got their name. But, yeah, I love their album.

I had never heard of them until this year. They're from Australia. Their album is entitled Again and there's one track in particular, if you've got the time. It's the name of it.

This, like, just so freaking catchy. And, yeah, I just. I love them. It's just, like, really cool indie rock with female vocals, really neat guitar interplay stuff.

So that's one that I've been loving.

Speaker A

00:02:50.650 - 00:02:56.490

We'll kind of do a little roundtable. Rachel and Charles, have either of you heard of this band before? Bel Air Lip Balms?

Speaker C

00:02:56.970 - 00:03:08.650

Not at all. But once you said they were Australian, I was like, this makes sense.

There's just this sort of casualness that I feel like I've heard from other Australian bands. Not casual, but, like, effortlessness. Yeah.

Speaker D

00:03:09.610 - 00:03:27.110

I had not heard of them, but I did really enjoy that song, and I listened to the whole album, and I. I enjoyed the whole thing. I was surprised, but I'm also always happy when there's young people making rock music with instruments.

Speaker B

00:03:27.190 - 00:03:35.590

Yes, I know. That was one of the things when I first heard them, too. I was like, oh, these. These kids are pretty young. And, yeah, they're great.

Speaker A

00:03:36.310 - 00:03:46.250

I was not familiar with them at all. And I listened to the one song, and then I also went ahead and was like, wow, I'm checking out this whole entire record. So I. I'm super thrilled.

How did you know?

Speaker B

00:03:46.250 - 00:04:09.730

I don't. I really don't remember, honestly.

I think I had seen the name come up a couple of times, probably in, like, one of my streaming algorithms or something, I think on Tidal. Because I listened to Tidal a good bit, and I think it came up on that, and.

But it took me a while to actually, like, check it out, and then instantly I was like, oh, my God, this is like, my new favorite thing. Yeah.

Speaker A

00:04:10.450 - 00:04:11.570

Shout out to title.

Speaker B

00:04:11.570 - 00:04:11.970

Cool.

Speaker A

00:04:11.970 - 00:04:19.390

Rachel is our title expert helping us get our playlist over there. So that's pretty cool. Speaking of which, Rachel, what have you been listening to lately?

Speaker C

00:04:20.110 - 00:04:35.310

I wanted to dedicate my first song of the episode to Becky Warren, the writer of Dive Bar Sweetheart. It was just stuck in my head as soon as you invited me to be on the podcast alone. And it just seems like it's sort of the perfect theme song for us.

Speaker A

00:04:35.710 - 00:04:44.920

Well, you and I had a little chat about that, and I will admit to just shamelessly tagging Becky Warren in social media, who thought it was hilarious and reshared it.

Speaker C

00:04:46.360 - 00:06:08.890

Yeah, I did a little digging on her today, because I was thinking she hasn't put out new music since her last album, which was, I think, the very end of 2019, and it was called the six season. And then that ended up being very relevant to everybody else. But she's really cool, so if anyone out there hasn't listened to her music yet.

Her first couple albums were concept albums. The first about veterans, war surplus, and then the second one is about homeless people, specifically the stories of homeless people in Nashville.

And then she finally turned to writing about herself with the sixth season, and that was an album about depression. And all of a sudden, the medication she had been on just kind of stopped working.

And, you know, it's always such a roller coaster to have to, like, readjust your meds. And it's just like an amazing album. Just great sense of humor, as always.

And she hasn't put out an album since then, but according to her Instagram, she had, like, two posts on her official Instagram this year, and one of them was that she had started a sub stack like everybody else and that there's more music coming.

But I'm curious to read the substack because there is an entry there about how she's just continuing to live a life in music without being beholden to the album cycle. And I'm sure Kim has some thoughts on that, too.

Speaker B

00:06:08.890 - 00:06:33.010

Yeah, Yeah. I, like, I really appreciate that, and I think a lot of people are starting to do that as we get older, and it's harder and harder to.

I mean, so many reasons, right? It's harder and harder to make money on music. And, yeah, touring is also really tough.

And so I like when I see people that are just like, you know what? I'm going to do this, like, at my own pace. That makes sense for me and is healthy.

Speaker C

00:06:34.100 - 00:06:34.340

She.

Speaker D

00:06:34.980 - 00:07:00.180

She. Several years ago, she got in with the Indigo Girls, and she's been an opener on a bunch of Indigo Girls dates sort of all over the Southeast.

So I feel like she's been doing stuff, just not releasing records, but I. I feel like she's probably open for the Indigo girls 10 or 15 times since that last album came out.

Speaker B

00:07:01.210 - 00:07:13.770

Yeah, that's how I had heard of her, actually, through Indigo Girls, so that's cool. Yeah. And I. I was glad that you brought her song Rachel, because I actually. I was a fan of that sixth season. Is that what it's called?

Speaker C

00:07:14.330 - 00:07:20.250

Yeah. And Emily Girls was on there, too, as well as I think their longtime producer.

Speaker B

00:07:21.370 - 00:07:24.410

Very cool. Yeah, I like. I like her stuff a lot.

Speaker A

00:07:24.810 - 00:07:40.310

I love how this brings up so much great overlap for all of us in different areas of both our interest, but also just little tidbits that we can p. I had completely forgotten about the association with Indigo Girls. And now I'm like, how did I not know that? Charles, you've always got interesting things in your ears. What are you listening to lately?

Speaker D

00:07:40.790 - 00:09:41.150

So the thing I listed was an Alex Chilton song. Alex Chilton, being from Big Star, he put out a solo record in the 90s, and I just bought it in the last year or two called Feudalist Tarts.

And, you know, I don't digest an album sort of all at once and, and very thoroughly. So I probably had the record a few months before. I really picked up on a song on the B side called Rubber Room.

And it's a weird and strange, trippy song. And then I looked at the back of the album cover and saw that Porter Wagner wrote the song, which really confused me because this is a.

A psychedelic song about someone locked up in a padded room in a mental institution, which does not feel like the kind of thing that Porter Wagner would have ever written about. But sure enough, I. I went looking. I found the Porter Wagner version. And it's not as if Alex Chilton took a standard country song and made it trippy.

The Porter Wagner version is also weird and trippy. And I guess that he. His version came out in the 70s and he was trying to latch on to the counterculture. But the Alex Chilton version is great.

It's longer than the Porter Wagner version, so there's, you know, more guitar solos, more psychedelic effects. But I'm. I'm a huge Alex Chilton fan.

And just the thought that he hears this Porter Wagner song and decides, nope, I'm taking that into the studio and I'm going to make it even weirder, and puts it on a record just excites me no end.

Speaker A

00:09:41.790 - 00:10:30.950

This is fascinating to me. So I have no problem exposing my complete lack of knowledge when it comes to music.

So I was a big Replacements fan, and the first time I ever heard the name Alex Chilton was, of course, from their song Alex Chilton. And then that led me back in the day to go to the record store and ask some questions. And here's the weird part.

I knew the band the Box Tops, really, really well. I did not know Chilton by name, nor that he was the lead singer as a teenager, but I had never heard of Big Star at that point, not at all.

So I kind of worked backwards on all of that, of finding Chilton's name from the replacement song, going to the record store, learning about his at the time, solo work, and they assuming I knew Big Star when I did not. But me then being like, oh, yeah, I know all the Box Top stuff. So how on earth did you become a Chilton fan?

Speaker D

00:10:31.430 - 00:10:33.670

I'm a rock and roll kid from the South.

Speaker B

00:10:33.990 - 00:10:35.350

I mean, me too, though.

Speaker D

00:10:36.470 - 00:12:13.190

I know, but I came to it the same way you did, essentially that it starts with the...

Built-In Ice Makers in Our Fridges, Adult Taylor Swift Parties, and Bar Coffee

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

Slide into the booth for a relaxed hang chatting about great music with Rachel Cholst, Charles Hale, and Sloane Spencer about what’s been on repeat lately, swapping thoughts on everything from the infectious indie rock of Weakened Friends to the timeless soul of Mavis Staples. Along the way, they shine a light on artists like SG Goodman, Florry, and Fust, talking about how these musicians tell powerful stories through their songs. They chat about live shows versus records, contrasting Billy Allen + The Pollies with Bass Battery. You’ll also hear some fun tales from the record store world, including a Taylor Swift listening party that turned into joyful chaos with kids, friendship bracelets, and plenty of laughs. Pour yourself a drink, get comfortable, and enjoy the kind of music chat that feels like catching up with friends, and hopefully inspires your next favorite listen. Never let the truth get in the way of a good story.

Playlist

Bands Featured in Episode 1

Bass Battery
Billy Allen + The Pollies
Florry
Fust
SG Goodman
Mavis Staples
Weakened Friends
(We never got around to chatting about Lene Lovich and Marah, also on our lists.)

Venues Mentioned

40 Watt, Athens, GA
9:30 Club, Washington, DC
Bowery Ballroom, NYC
Eddie's Attic, Decatur, GA
The Fillmore East, NYC
The Foundry, Athens, GA
Newport Folk Fest, Newport, RI
The RamKat, Winston-Salem, NC
Sony Hall, NYC
Standard Deluxe, Waverly, AL
Sultan Room, Bushwick, Brooklyn, NY
Turk's Inn, NYC

The Regulars in this Episode

Other Mentions

Norwood Cheek
Katie Crutchfield (Waxahatchee)
Drive-By Truckers
Mitch Easter
Patty Griffin
Buddy Guy
Eddie Hinton
Patterson Hood
Janis Joplin
Rob Ladd
MJ Lenderman
Let's Active
Mandolin Orange
Francie Medosch (Florry)
Mipso
Bonnie Raitt
Nathaniel Rateliff
Libby Rodenbough
Dex Romweber Duo
Dexter Romweber
Sara Romweber
The Staples Singers
Taylor Swift
Derek Trucks
Jeff Tweedy
Spencer Tweedy
Townes Van Zandt
Tom Waits
Watchhouse (formerly Mandolin Orange)
Wednesday
Gillian Welch

, Dive Bar Music Club, 90s alt rock, indie rock podcasts, emerging songwriters, music discovery, live music experiences, music recommendations, music playlists, underground music scene, cult bands, record store culture, music trends 2026, Southern rock, singer-songwriter community, acoustic performances, album reviews, music venues in New York, music collaborations, Mavis Staples, Florry band, venues

Automated Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:02.000 - 00:01:00.650

Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the guest hosts drop in and out, but the opinions are always passionate in the playlists. Loud. It's like cheers if everyone at the bar had a strong take on 90s alt rock or a suspicious number of burned CDs.

Around our table, you'll find an emerging touring songwriter, a former cult band favorite whose work since then is even more interesting, a portrait photographer with a not so secret metal penchant, a record store owner who learned about Swifties the hard way, a retired folk singer who regrets nothing, and a zine maker with more cool music projects than we can count.

Speaker B

00:01:00.650 - 00:01:00.770

All.

Speaker A

00:01:00.770 - 00:01:32.910

Thanks for sliding on in here with us at Dive Bar Music Club. I'm Sloane Spencer, and I am so excited to have gathered a couple of my friends to hang out with me as we roll right into January 2026.

I have Rachel Colst and Charles Hale joining me today.

If you've had a chance so far, hope you've listened to those bio episodes to find out what they are up to in the past and how they bring a lot of different to the world of music. They're joining us here in Dive Bar Music Club and I can't believe we're finally doing this. How are y' all doing? Rachel, what's up?

Speaker C

00:01:33.390 - 00:01:42.910

I'm great. I have a brand new refrigerator. Yeah, this is our third refrigerator in six years.

So we were very excited to stay in for New Year's Eve and cook a nice meal.

Speaker A

00:01:43.390 - 00:01:48.830

Listen, that is absolutely something that all of us have reached the point of life where that is point of celebration.

Speaker C

00:01:50.520 - 00:01:58.760

Yeah, there was a time when a week of takeout and Trader Joe's frozen food would have seemed awesome, but that time has passed for sure.

Speaker A

00:01:59.240 - 00:02:01.080

Charles, how about you? What have you been up to?

Speaker B

00:02:01.480 - 00:02:15.240

I've been dreaming of owning a refrigerator that makes ice on its own. It's one of my goals is to have one of those before I turn 50. So I've got about 18 months to get one of those.

Speaker A

00:02:15.950 - 00:02:23.310

I love this. So that's perfect for the little sounder that I use on all the little intros to this, which is the ice hitting the glass.

That might be our recurring theme.

Speaker B

00:02:24.910 - 00:02:25.390

Wheat.

Speaker A

00:02:25.710 - 00:02:44.140

The main question of Dive Bar Music Club is asking Folks, what are the three things they've been listening to lately? I kind of like the question because it's a little different than what are your top three picks?

Especially as we get into these conversations, you'll see it's a little different. What's on your mind these days? So, Rachel Coltst, what have you been listening to lately?

Speaker C

00:02:44.620 - 00:03:52.670

Yeah. So I picked out my three songs for today based on my cool venues I went to this year or back in 2025.

So first we'll start out with Weekend Friends Weightless. It's kind of more indie rock, little grunge, a little pop punk.

I went to go see them at a place in Bushwick, Brooklyn, called the Sultan Room, which I think I mentioned in my bio episode. It was my first time there, but the venue is a couple of years old.

These guys basically imported, like, a Midwestern supper club called the Turkish Inn out to Brooklyn, and then they attached a music venue to it that has just this really cool setup. Like, you walk in and the stage is sort of sunk in. So the stage is below you.

There's like an area right around the front of the stage if you're into, like, moshing or whatever. Sort of upper level with the bar. And it's just like, there's all good sight lines and the way they decorated it was really cool.

These, like, LED panels and kind of, like Moorish style. I don't know, lattice work. It's worth looking up a picture.

The venue itself, I think, has a lot of different types of music, but this was a rock show and it was super fun.

Speaker A

00:03:52.990 - 00:04:00.910

Oh, I think I found that band when I subscribed to your email list. And so that's how I found them. And they kind of give me a little bit, like, younger riot girl vibe.

Speaker C

00:04:01.790 - 00:04:15.770

Totally. I mean, they're millennials, so they. I think they definitely have incorporated that turn as a lot with 90s rock pop.

And on my podcast, we talked a little bit about country as well into their sound.

Speaker A

00:04:16.170 - 00:04:23.850

By the way, if y' all haven't had a chance, there is a whole conversation on Rachel's podcast with the Weekenders. What? Give us that link again.

Speaker C

00:04:24.650 - 00:04:40.700

Weekend Friends. It's the most recent episode of the Rainbow Rodeo podcast. Oh, no, you're fine.

And then one thing I am figuring out this new year is what I want to be doing with the podcast this coming year. So subscribe. It might take a little while for a new episode to show up, but I have some fun ideas.

Speaker A

00:04:41.100 - 00:04:43.980

Cool. I love that. So, Charles, what have you been listening to?

Speaker B

00:04:45.020 - 00:04:52.460

The Record that has sort of been most on my mind recently is the newest Mavis Staples Record.

Speaker A

00:04:53.020 - 00:04:53.580

Mm.

Speaker B

00:04:54.060 - 00:06:04.560

Sad and beautiful world. And she is, I think, 86 years old and made a beautiful record.

It really is good, and I don't want to be fatalistic, but it might be the last record she makes, and if it is, I feel like she made an A plus record. There's two songs that I'll point out briefly, and Mavis doesn't write songs, so two songs.

One is called Hard Times, which Gillian Welch wrote, which is a beautiful song. And then the album closes with a song called Everybody Needs Love, which was written by Eddie Hinton, who is a. An old Muscle Shoals session musician.

But the song Everybody Needs Love I know, and I think probably most people know it's because the Drive By Truckers recorded it a number of years ago. And Mavis does a beautiful version. The other thing that I love about this record is who all she has playing with her, because she could.

She could get anybody she wanted, really.

Speaker A

00:06:04.560 - 00:06:04.960

Right.

Speaker B

00:06:05.440 - 00:06:14.160

And Jeff Tweedy is around a little bit. Spencer Tweedy is around a little bit. But Katie Crutchfield is on the record from Wax.

Speaker C

00:06:14.320 - 00:06:15.120

I didn't know that.

Speaker B

00:06:15.200 - 00:06:45.590

Buddy Guy is on the record. Derek Trucks is on the record, MJ Linderman is on the record.

So Nathaniel Raitliff is on the record, Patterson Hood is on the record, and Bonnie Raitt is on the record. So there's all these young people that are making interesting, creative music right now, and she's having them in.

Part of that is because Brad Cook is the producer of the record. So it's such a beautiful record. I listened to it this morning.

Speaker A

00:06:46.070 - 00:06:49.910

I love it. And there's a fantastic Tom Waits cover with Chicago as well.

Speaker B

00:06:50.230 - 00:07:10.320

Yes. Chicago is the first song on the record, and it does feel like the outlier a little bit, because it's not sort of morose or reflective. It's.

It's more celebratory. But, yeah, she's doing Tom Waits, so how can we not like that?

Speaker A

00:07:11.360 - 00:07:29.100

For sure. Forgive me if I have told either of y' all this story before, and I don't know that I've ever...

The Regulars: Sloane Spencer, Serial Music Podcaster

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

Grab your favorite drink and settle in, because we’re diving deep with Sloane Spencer, the mastermind behind Dive Bar Music Club. This week, Sloane shares her journey through the indie music scene, from her days as a radio host to her latest venture, Sleep with Rock Stars, a chill podcast that aims to lull you to sleep with the soothing sounds of music history. We chat about the evolution of her musical passion, how the pandemic sparked her return to podcasting, and her love for dive bars that serve as the heartbeat of local music communities. Sloane’s tales of sneaking into punk clubs as a kid and her nostalgic nods to legendary venues like the 40 Watt and Caledonia remind us that music isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life. So, whether you're a seasoned music nerd or just looking to unwind with some good tunes, this episode promises to be a cozy listen that’ll have you saying, "Y’all come back now, you hear?"

Chapters

00:12 - Introducing the Host: Sloane Spencer
03:18 - The Birth of Dive Bar Music Club Podcast
06:30 - The Journey to College Radio
07:54 - The Evolution of Music Spaces
12:05 - Exploring Dive Bar Music Club

Show Notes

Diving into the depths of music culture, this episode of Dive Bar Music Club takes a relaxed stroll through the melodious journey of Sloane Spencer, a figure who embodies both nostalgia and innovation in the podcasting realm. Sloane's story unfolds like a well-worn record, starting from her childhood roots steeped in music, where her parents' love for artists like Janis Joplin laid the groundwork for her lifelong passion. The conversation meanders through her early foray into radio, where she cleverly maneuvered her way into the industry, despite her initial lack of musical talent. This candid narrative is peppered with humor, as Sloane shares anecdotes of sneaking into punk rock shows, her brief stint as a frontwoman for a Ramones cover band, and her 'soft retirement' from traditional radio.

With a charmingly colloquial tone, Sloane explains her latest ventures, including the creation of her new podcast, Sleep with Rock Stars, which takes an unexpected turn as she reads about popular bands in a soothing, sleepy voice, an idea that initially perplexed her. This shift not only highlights her adaptability but also her desire to cater to the Gen X audience, merging the worlds of music and relaxation in a uniquely engaging format. As she shares her love for indie music and her commitment to venues like the 40 Watt and Nuci's Space, Sloane invites listeners to reminisce about their own musical experiences while subtly encouraging them to explore the vibrant indie scene.

As the episode wraps up, listeners are left with a sense of camaraderie and nostalgia, as Sloane's journey reflects the broader tapestry of music culture that unites us all—reminding us that whether it's in a dive bar or through the airwaves, music has a way of bringing people together in the most delightful of ways.

---

In a heartfelt and humorous exchange, this episode of Dive Bar Music Club dives deep into the rich tapestry of Sloane Spencer's musical journey. From her early days of being a music enthusiast fueled by her parents' eclectic tastes to her evolution into a radio personality and podcaster, Sloane's narrative is as engaging as it is reflective. The episode captures the essence of Sloane's personality, allowing her quirky and relatable nature to shine through as she recounts her adventures in the music scene, including her unsuccessful attempts at playing guitar and her amusing role in a Ramones cover band.

Sloane's transition from radio to podcasting is a central theme, with her latest project, Sleep with Rock Stars, offering a fresh take on the podcast format. This 'sleep podcast' idea, born from a humorous suggestion, showcases her unique approach to storytelling, as she reads soothing narratives about beloved bands without the usual commentary. It’s a clever twist that opens up a conversation about how we consume and engage with music in today's world.

Listeners will find themselves resonating with Sloane's experiences, whether it's her favorite venues like the old Excelsior Mill or her commitment to mental health advocacy through Nuci's Space. The episode blends personal anecdotes with a broader commentary on the independent music scene, crafting a rich narrative that celebrates the beauty of live music and the community it fosters. It's a delightful reminder that at the heart of it all, music is about connection, whether you're hanging out in a dive bar or tuning in from your living room.

---

Emphasizing the intimate connection between music and community, this episode of Dive Bar Music Club features Sloane Spencer, whose vibrant storytelling transports listeners back to the golden days of indie music. Her journey is not just a recount of her career but a reflection on how music has shaped her identity, starting from her childhood experiences with her parents' eclectic playlists to her adventurous escapades as a budding music lover sneaking into clubs. The narrative is rich with humor and warmth, as Sloane shares her misadventures and the evolution of her radio career, which has spanned over two decades.

The conversation touches on Sloane's latest project, Sleep with Rock Stars, which cleverly merges relaxation with music appreciation. By reading about iconic bands in a calming voice, she's created a unique space for listeners to unwind while celebrating the music that defined a generation. This innovative approach is a testament to her creativity and willingness to explore new formats in a rapidly changing media landscape.

As she reminisces about her favorite venues, like the legendary 40 Watt and Nuci's Space, Sloane highlights the importance of community spaces in nurturing the indie music scene. Her anecdotes weave a narrative that is both personal and universal, inviting listeners to reflect on their own musical journeys and the spaces that have been significant to them. By the end of the episode, the audience is left with a sense of belonging and nostalgia, feeling as though they've shared a drink and a good laugh with an old friend, united by the love of music and its power to connect us all.

Takeaways

Sloane Spencer shares her journey from a radio personality to podcast creator, revealing her passion for independent music.
The concept of Dive Bar Music Club revolves around casual conversations about music, reminiscent of hanging out with friends at a bar.
Sloane's new podcast, Sleep with Rock Stars, combines soothing narration with nostalgic music history for a unique listening experience.
The importance of community spaces like Nucci's Space in Athens, which provides mental health support to musicians, is highlighted as essential.
The episode emphasizes the nostalgia and memories tied to live music venues like the 40 Watt and Caledonia, cherished by music fans.
Sloane's humorous take on her limited musical skills adds a relatable touch, reminding us that being a fan is what truly matters.

Links

Check out the rest of the Regulars on Dive Bar Music Club!
Sleep with Rock Stars
Country Fried Rock
YCBNYH.com Y'all Come Back Now, You Hear

Mentioned in This Episode

Cotton Club
688
Excelsior Mill
Drivin n Cryin
40 Watt
Dee's Country Cocktail Lounge
The Pinhook
Nuci's Space
R.E.M.

, Dive Bar Music Club, independent music podcast, music venues, Gen X music, music fan community, Country Fried Rock podcast, sleep podcast, music industry insights, Sloane Spencer interview, music festival experiences, Atlanta music scene, dive bar concerts, mental health in music, music nostalgia, music history podcast, casual music discussions, music recommendations, live music culture, music and wellness, voiceover artist in music

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:00.560 - 00:12:40.710

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Each week we're joined by a rotating cast of true music fans, people who live and breathe independent music.

This week, I'll turn the tables on myself, Sloan Spencer, a soft retired radio personality, unwitting early podcast success, former syndicated radio host, voiceover artist, and basically the Marilyn Munster of the group. So grab a drink, pull up a stool. Part hang, part deep dive, part time machine on this week's session of Dive Bar Music Club.

Well, Sloan Spencer, we are so glad to have you be part of Dive Bar Music Club. What are you doing in the world of music these days?

Well, over the pandemic, I slowly phased out my original podcast, Country Fried Rock, and I hosted a couple of really short seasons of just fun podcasts as an excuse to talk with folks. Since then, I sorta soft retired from radio and mostly just do my voiceover work.

And after feeling a little burnt out about podcasts for a few years, suddenly I was itching to start some back. And weirdly, that's where my other new show came from. Called Sleep with Rockstars.

It's a Gen X sleep podcast and the idea started a million years ago back with Country Fried Rock, which, by the way, I just found a bunch of the hard drives and I've been uploading some of the old episodes for people again. So not new episodes, but hundreds of them, completely disorganized, whatever.

You can find them@countryfriedrock.com well, sleep with Rock Stars has been super fun because it started back as an idea in the Country Fried Rock early days when someone told me they listened to the episodes slowed down to fall asleep at night and I was like, kind of offended. But as I thought about it over the years, I was like, oh, a sleep podcast would be a great idea.

So it's totally different than anything else that I have done. The delivery is purposely like super quiet and slow and. And there's no commentary, no guests.

It is me reading from Wikipedia about bands that are popular with Gen X people. So I arbitrarily started with 1984 as kind of just like a focal point and looked at music that was popular then.

And so basically I'm just like choosing bands that were both quite popular, but also that I happen to like. And I'm reading from Wikipedia in a very sleepy tone of voice and it's way more fun than I ever expected.

So yeah, sleepwithrockstars.com and then as I got back into it with that, and then I Found those hard drives for country fried rock.

I thought it would be fun to try something a little different with some of my friends in music who I don't think any of them actually know each other. And that's where Dive Bar Music Club came from.

And the idea is kind of like when you get to go to a big music festival or a conference and you see your friends that you only know from that environment, and everybody gets together and it's fun to talk about music and whatever you're listening to and whatever's going on and just catch up. Kind of like a family reunion of people you pick. Well, so that's the idea here. It's super casual.

We want everybody to be able to, you know, hop in maybe once a month and chat about the top three things they're listening to these days. There's no, like, this has to be new. This has to be cool.

It's just whatever you're listening to and casually talk about the music and enjoy what's going on.

And, you know, if people have cool stuff going on in their professional lives, to be able to share that information, but just to keep it super low key, as if we all were getting to hang out in real life. And so that's where Dive Bar Music Club came from. So, Sloane, what is your villain origin story? Like, how did you end up in the world of music?

I know from your social media a few years ago that you notoriously can't play except maybe like, three power chords. Okay, so that is true. I can play three power chords. I learned them for a charity gig.

And up until the Pandemic, I temporarily fronted a Ramones cover band called Ramams, which is kind of hilarious because I can't sing either. But, yeah, here we are. Anyway, yeah, so I have always been, like, a massive fan of music. My parents were really big fans of music.

Their first date was going to see Janis Joplin at the Fillmore east in New York. So they actually went to that show because the Staple Singers were the main act. And my dad was a huge fan of them.

So I just grew up with a huge variety of music in the house, and records were a really big deal. And very first thing I ever bought with my own money was a record. So I've just always been a huge, huge fan.

And then I also have always been a major nerd, so that's no surprise to anybody. So when I was in fifth grade, I did this, like, special math thing down at Georgia State, and that's when I discovered college radio.

And so album 88 was a huge deal. Wrek from Georgia Tech as well. But I was a big album 88 person primarily, and I just became obsessed.

And so I was like this super nerdy kid who was just super, super into music. And I skipped a grade. And so I was already young and I was hanging out with kids who were way older than I was.

And I decided that it was a really good idea to sneak out of the house and go see shows. And needless to say, I got caught.

And my parents solution was to drive me to punk rock clubs and my dad would sit in the car in chain smoke and read a book by flashlight. I've seen hundreds and hundreds of shows.

It's kind of ridiculous looking back on it as a parent, like, I absolutely would never have allowed my own kid to do this. So I don't know, I'm just really lucky that I had super checked out parents of a Gen X person. Like, it wasn't even.

I wasn't even like the only kid in these clubs. It was bizarre. Anyway, that's just kind of how it went.

And that, that passion for different kinds of music and particularly emerging music never went away. I am not cool. If you've met me, you know, I'm like Marilyn Munster. I just really like the music.

And gosh, it goes all the way back to that WREK and album 88 Obsession. I mean, honestly, it goes back before that goes all the way. But you got to blame WKRP in Cincinnati.

I mean, that's, that's, that's my real origin story. Like, I loved WKRP in Cincinnati. And so go back to when I was in early elementary school and there was the Iranian hostage situation.

Y' all may remember this. There was a huge morning show in Atlanta at the time that was collecting letters from school children to send to the Ayatollah Khomeini.

And whoever collected the most letters would get to be on the radio. And I was that kid. I collected the most letters from the schools around me, and I got to deliver them and be on the morning radio show.

And it was one of those, like, very morning zoo sort of concepts. I knew I wanted to go into radio then, and that was not acceptable at all with my family. So that's how I kind of got myself into college radio.

With the first radio station I auditioned for. I did not get the job.

And it's kind of funny because I did the next best thing, which was my best friend did get hired, and I just was her unofficial co host every single morning on the radio, it was awesome. So anyway, college radio was super fun. And then I was a teacher for a really long time.

And then I got back into radio and I've worked in, gosh, more than 25 years. I worked in dozens of formats, all kinds of crazy stuff.

The biggest thing you learn when you switch to commercial radio is it doesn't matter what you think about the music, because that's not really what your job is. In some ways, it broadened my horizons. Like, I had never listened to pop music, like popular pop music. That had never, ever been my thing.

So there was stuff that was old that I had never heard. And along the way, I somehow convinced our station programmer to let me do a couple. Couple of specialty shows.

And the first one was called the Southern Rock 7 at 7 on our classic rock station. I was also on the country station at the time. And that morphed into the...

The Regulars: Kim Ware of The Good Graces and Y'All'Re

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

Grab a drink and slide into the booth because we're diving deep with Kim Ware, the talented songwriter behind The Good Graces and drummer for the punk band Y'All'Re. This week, we’re peeling back the layers on her musical journey that started with school band and a love for drums, turning into a vibrant career filled with songwriting and live performances across the Carolinas. Kim shares tales from her early days, where she found comfort and expression through music, especially during life’s ups and downs. We’ll also have a laugh or two about the quirks of venue life, reminiscing about iconic spots like Fat City in Charlotte, which painted the backdrop of her indie rock beginnings. So come hang out with us at the Dive Bar Music Club, where the conversations flow as freely as the drinks, and the love for independent music runs deep.

Bio

Chapters

00:15 - Introducing Kim Ware: A Dive into Independent Music
01:06 - The Journey of Kim Ware: From Drummer to Songwriter
03:20 - Nostalgic Venues and Memories in Music
06:39 - Transitioning from Corporate Life to Creative Expression
07:50 - Embracing Accents in Podcasting

Recommended If You Like

Kim Ware, Dive Bar Music Club, independent music, singer songwriter, punk rock band, Y'All're, Grand Epiphanies EP, music podcast, music venues, Charlotte North Carolina, music nostalgia, songwriting process, female drummers, underground music scene, booking shows, music therapy, music industry insights, Southern musicians, live music experience, music community, music interviews, the good graces

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:00.160 - 00:00:03.760

Hey, this is Kim Ware, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker B

00:00:04.320 - 00:00:06.160

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the.

Speaker C

00:00:06.160 - 00:00:32.710

Low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Each week we're joined by a rotating cast of regulars, people who live and breathe independent music.

This week, we'll get to know Kim Ware, songwriter for the Good Graces, drummer for the punk band y' all Are, and former booking agent. Part hang, part deep dive, it's Dive Bar Music Club.

So grab a drink, slide into that booth, and get to know Kim Ware on this week's session of Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker B

00:00:33.670 - 00:00:40.870

So, Kim Ware, I am so glad you're going to be part of the regulars here on Dive Bar Music Club. What are you doing in the world of music these days?

Speaker A

00:00:41.270 - 00:00:57.600

I'm a singer, songwriter, and I just released a new ep. It's called Grand Epiphanies. And I also play drums in a punk rock band called Y' All Are.

And we've been really busy last play a lot around the Carolinas, so that's primarily what I'm doing these days.

Speaker B

00:00:58.160 - 00:01:06.000

Very cool. We're excited to get to know you a little bit more through the regulars and our fun chats coming up each month on Dive Bar Music Club.

Thanks for being part of what we're doing.

Speaker A

00:01:06.320 - 00:01:06.800

Yeah.

Speaker B

00:01:06.960 - 00:01:14.240

So, Kim, y', all, you're playing in a couple of different kinds of bands right now, and y' all have been busy lately, but how did you end up where you are in music?

Speaker A

00:01:14.880 - 00:02:54.330

Well, I was a big tomboy when I was a kid and when I was in middle school and it came time to choose an instrument for, like, the school band. I think I associated drums, like, as being, like, a boy instrument.

So I knew I wanted to play the drums, and I didn't really have a plan B or another interest. And the prospective drummers had to do, like, a simple rhythm exercise to be chosen.

So I did that, and I guess I, you know, passed that and it sounds cliche, probably, but, like, that became my first love really quickly, and I got my first kit at age 16, and I've been playing ever since.

And when I moved to Atlanta in 2004, I quickly fell in with a few songwriters and joined their band, became their drummer, and that got me interested in, like, the craft of songwriting and was really inspired by them.

And I picked up my first acoustic guitar a few years later around 2006, and found that I was able to just put to words some, like, really complicated feelings.

I had gone through a divorce a few years prior, so I wrote A whole bunch of breakup songs all at once and just saw the therapeutic power of that and knew that it was something that I needed in my life. And I've been doing that since then as well.

And in between those, the drumming and the songwriting, I did a lot of other things like booking shows and helping with PR for people and even had a small record label for a while, but that's basically how I got there. I love it.

Speaker B

00:02:54.330 - 00:03:04.450

I love, I love the route that it takes, but also all the way back to yay big shout out to school music programs. Extremely important and we hope they continue. They're so, so important.

Speaker A

00:03:04.690 - 00:03:07.010

Yes, absolutely.

Speaker B

00:03:07.250 - 00:03:18.720

Well, I'm enjoying this and I'm looking forward to getting to know you more as we all get to chat further with Dive Bar Music Club. Have there been any venues, past or present over the years? Did you just really love either playing or seeing music?

Speaker A

00:03:20.000 - 00:05:02.380

Yeah, you know, I don't know what made me think of this venue the other day, but I guess occasionally I am reminded of a venue that was in Charlotte, North Carolina, because I live near there now and it was in the 90s, it was called Fat City. And that was I guess my introduction to like the Noda neighborhood of Charlotte. Uhhuh, uhhuh.

And which I would, I would liken that neighborhood to like Little Five Points in Atlanta where I spent some time later, you know. Yeah, just super cool, right?

And in the 90s I played in like kind of an indie rock band and I lived in Wilmington at the time and we played at Fat City just a few times. But I just have really fond memories of it. I don't have the best memory, but for whatever reason, this venue stands out. Like I can still see it.

I can still see, see what it looked like, you know, from the stage. I can still see where the stage was. And I just remember the staff always being really, really nice, very unpretentious and it was just cool.

They had really good sandwiches as well, if I remember correctly.

And it was just, to me, it was that perfect, like neighborhoody, small to mid sized room that it really like defines the neighborhood when you have something like that, when you're fortunate enough, you know, to be near something like that.

And even though I only went probably a handful of times, like played there a few times, and then went to shows there a few other times, but there's just something about that venue that's ingrained in my memory.

Speaker B

00:05:03.320 - 00:05:15.760

I love that I'm super familiar with the Noda area these days, but the 90s I was up in the Kentucky area. And then you touched on the area. That is my reason for being a music fan, which was, for me, the 80s of little five points. So fun.

Speaker C

00:05:15.760 - 00:05:16.120

Fun.

Speaker B

00:05:16.200 - 00:05:19.000

I didn't realize there was so much overlap. This will be fun to get to explore.

Speaker A

00:05:19.160 - 00:05:32.120

Very cool. Yeah. Awesome. I have just such fond memories. I'm very nostalgic about both Atlanta and Charlotte, but yeah, in the 90s, gosh. In general. So.

Speaker B

00:05:34.810 - 00:05:40.970

I love it when people are trying to find out what you're doing creatively these days. Where do you want people to find you?

Speaker A

00:05:41.370 - 00:06:20.160

The goodgraces.org it's like my home base for. For my music, for my singer songwriter stuff and my band that I play drums in. I say I'm a Gemini. So I think it's like those two things are two.

They're almost polar opposite really, but they make sense for me. It's like the two sides of me. So I would love for people to check out the punk band also. It's. It's called Y' All Are Like. Y' all are.

Y' all are Pretty good. Y, apostrophe A, L, L, apostrophe R, E. Gosh, it's not that easy to Google.

Speaker B

00:06:20.160 - 00:06:21.240

It makes perfect sense.

Speaker A

00:06:21.240 - 00:07:04.190

Getting. I'm saying it. But yeah, I think it. It makes sense to us too. And we're. We're on, you know, all the social sites and all the streaming sites as well.

We don't really have a. Like a proper website, but we're on all of those things also. I mean, you can probably tell from my accent, I'm super Southern. And I used to, like.

I worked in the corporate world for a long time, and I kind of. I don't know, I tried to get away from that, I think, because I thought that I needed to. And eventually, finally I was like, you know what?

That's B.S. that's me, and I should just embrace it. So now I do hear ya.

Speaker B

00:07:04.510 - 00:07:13.430

I appreciate that. I went through the era of being a stage actor in the early 80s, where we had to take classes on things like let's lose that Southern drawl, y'.

Speaker C

00:07:13.430 - 00:07:13.630

All.

Speaker B

00:07:14.430 - 00:07:25.710

So for me, it comes back more like if I'm tired or. But the more comfortable I get, the more I slip back into it, which I'm not ashamed of at all. I wish I still had more of the accent that I used to.

Speaker A

00:07:26.640 - 00:07:48.640

Yeah, it definitely comes out for me. Well, now it's just out all the time. But, yeah, I definitely can relate to, like, when I was.

When I didn't live in the area I live in now, and I would come to visit, you know, it wouldn't take long at all. My husband would, wow. He'd be like, man, I can tell that you've been out of town this weekend. I'm like, yeah.

Speaker B

00:07:50.080 - 00:08:02.520

And honestly, for podcasting, you know, specifically audio only podcasting, it really helps to have people with different accents. And that was something that was important to me so that listeners can get used to who we are and what we sound like.

Speaker A

00:08:02.920 - 00:08:07.720

That makes sense. Yeah. And it seems like that would be more interesting to listen to, right?

The Regulars: Rachel Cholst, Beyond Adobe & Teardrops and Rainbow Rodeo

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

This week at the Dive Bar Music Club, we meet one of the Regulars, the incredible Rachel Cholst, who’s here to take us on a deep dive into the colorful world of queer country and Americana. Get ready for some surprising insights and music recommendations, including jazz for non-historians.

As we sip on our metaphorical cocktails and kick back, Rachel Cholst helps us explore the magic of live music venues and how they create a sense of community, especially for those of us who don’t fit the cis het white dude roots music scene mold. And if you're a fan of Lilith Fair 90s vibes, you're in for a treat, as we also chat about how the past has shaped the music we love today.

Dive in to broad influences from peers to NPR with Rachel Cholst.

Links

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club

03:12 Entering the Music World

04:53 The Intersection of Music and Identity

07:23 The Importance of Community Spaces in Live Music

09:53 Exploring the Music Scene in Upper Manhattan

13:17 Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club

Takeaways

Vibrant, Inclusive Vibes: Dive Bar Music Club is the ultimate hangout for music lovers of all kinds, where everyone can share their current obsessions and discover fresh new tunes
Community & Live Venues Matter: We chat about why live music venues are more than just places to hear music. They create a sense of community for both fans and artists, and that’s what makes the music scene so special.
Queer Country & Americana: We dive into genres like queer country and Americana, exploring how they reflect personal stories and cultural shifts, making for some pretty deep and powerful music.
Witty Banter & Musical History: Expect fun conversations mixed with deep dives into music history. We’ll navigate how genres and identities blend together to shape today’s music scene.

Recommended If You Like

Dive Bar Music Club, Rachel Cholst, Americana music, queer country, 90s alt rock, indie music podcasts, emerging songwriters, underground music scenes, live music venues, music communities, music recommendations, music reviews, jazz influences, Southern rock, intersectionality in music, music blogging, music playlists, artist highlights, cultural music discussions, music nerd culture, Yahoo, Pandora, No Depression, Good Country, Two Cow Garage, Karen and the Sorrows, Rainbow Rodeo, Penny Jo's, Rockwood Music Hall, Lilith Fair, Bad Bunny, Alt Latino, Adobe and Teardrops

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:00.960 - 00:00:05.120

Hey, everybody, this is Rachel Cholst, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker B

00:00:05.760 - 00:00:52.390

Around our table you'll find an emerging touring songwriter, a former cult band favorite whose work since then is even more interesting, a portrait photographer with a not so secret metal penchant, a record store owner who learned about Swifties the hard way, a retired folk singer who regrets nothing, and a zine maker with more cool music projects than we can count.

We're all just here to share what we're currently obsessed with and maybe convince someone that, yes, that weird Icelandic synth folk band is worth a listen.

Speaker C

00:00:52.790 - 00:00:54.550

Okay, that last one's probably me.

Speaker B

00:00:54.710 - 00:01:01.950

Sloane Spencer. It's Dive Bar Music Club. Low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.

Speaker C

00:01:02.510 - 00:01:08.990

Rachel Cholst, I am so excited to have you be part of Dive Bar Music Club. What are you up to in the world of music these days?

Speaker A

00:01:09.710 - 00:01:34.600

Hey, Sloane, thank you so much for having me. I'm really excited to just nerd out with all my Twitter ati bluesky ati people.

Now you can find me editing Rainbow Rodeo, the only queer country site zine. And you'll also find my work in no Depression. I have a monthly column there, as well as the Nashville scene and good country from time to time.

Speaker C

00:01:35.080 - 00:01:54.230

I'm so excited to have you be part of this. I have learned so much about music that I otherwise would not have known, and for me, the barrier was the country part of it.

You know, I'm not really a country music fan and you've really opened my ears to some fantastic work over the years. So I'm really excited to learn more about what you're listening to these days with Die Bar Music Club.

Speaker A

00:01:54.870 - 00:02:18.070

Thanks. I've actually been listening to a lot of jazz in my free time.

I think 20 years of writing about Americana and country and roots rock has kind of made me really hate three chord songs. I'm just kidding.

But I think, you know, I'm definitely excited to expand my own horizons because I know you've got a lot of people with really exciting tastes coming onto the podcast as well.

Speaker C

00:02:18.640 - 00:02:30.480

That's the plan is that hopefully we all like different things, but we all have enough of an overlap to be able to turn people onto other things. I'm super into like early 1970s soul jazz. It's like comfort music for me.

Speaker A

00:02:31.200 - 00:02:40.800

Yeah, totally.

And you know, when I say queer country for Rainbow Rodeo, that's just because it's a nice alliteration, you know, it's mostly Americana, I think, is how we would describe it nowadays.

Speaker C

00:02:41.280 - 00:02:52.830

Sure. And I think that's important to clarify for folks, because if you're like me and you're like, I don't listen to country music, I'm not sure.

I've told the listeners of this particular podcast. I worked in pop country for 25 years. I've listened to plenty of country music in my life.

Speaker A

00:02:53.550 - 00:03:04.670

Yeah. For pop country, I don't really listen to it as much in my free time either.

But it is interesting to see, like, the sort of 90s sounds come back into fashion, for better or worse. Agreed there.

Speaker C

00:03:04.670 - 00:03:19.570

Yeah, I think we'll probably end up chatting about that at some point in an upcoming podcast because that's come up in a couple of these different little bio conversations. So, Rachel Coelst, we've known each other digitally for a pretty long time, but how did you end up working in the world of music?

Speaker A

00:03:20.290 - 00:05:23.469

I'm a millennial, kind of right there in the middle, born in 1988. So I was like in my tweens when the Internet became a thing.

And so I was just kind of used to if I liked something, doing what I could to find everything about it. And as much as streaming has really been damaging to the music industry, I think it's been great for music listeners.

I never would have found my way into altcountry in Americana if it wasn't for services like Yahoo. Radio and Pandora. Try to keep it really brief. I am like New York City kid.

My family is like third generation in Ellis island, so there's no real particular roots in what you would consider like classical country music. They don't listen to it, but I just really fell in love with sort of Southern rock and twang, for whatever reason.

And as I got older and my own politics continued to develop, I found myself gravitating towards this sort of intersection between punk and country and singer songwriting.

So not necessarily so much like the Bloodshot record bands that are really in your face, but those bands that were kind of made famous on the revival tour or artists so like Tucal, Garage, Lucero, those kinds of people.

And I noticed as I was going to more and more shows, as I was reading more and more blogs about those artists, they were almost universally featured straight white men. And I was almost always the only woman there at these shows who wasn't there with her boyfriend.

So I wanted to figure out who those other people were. This was also 2011, so kind of like as the ideas of intersectionality and like Occupy Wall street were all entering the mainstream.

So I decided to just start my own blog, Adobe and Teardrops, that tried to highlight artists of marginalized identities.

So queer artists, bipoc artists as we would call use the term now, and all people who are working somewhere within the root space and also just artists who I liked. So that also included like 2Cal Garage and Abigail Lucas and people like that.

Speaker C

00:05:24.270 - 00:05:44.760

And this is where I first discovered your work and I kind of gravitated into this field or this sort of genre is not exactly the right word. It's sort of community in around 2009.

So similar era with what I was doing back then for me to kind of get away from that world of pop country that I had worked in for so long. Professionally.

Speaker A

00:05:44.840 - 00:06:16.180

Yeah, I think maybe this could be for another episode. But I wrote about the Lilith Fair documentary that came out recently.

And as I was watching the documentary I realized like, how could I not be a country music fan growing up in the 90s? Like, all those Lilith Faire artists were using sort of folk and country modes in their music.

And then of course we had the great 90s country that crossed over into mainstream pop as well. So I was listening to country music without listening to country music. It was just there excited to kind.

Speaker C

00:06:16.180 - 00:06:25.860

Of tease that out there for our listeners. So you've always got a lot of different projects going on regarding and related to music. Where would you like people to find you or your work?

Speaker A

00:06:26.180 - 00:07:03.700

The easiest place to see my non Rainbow Rodeo work would be my Instagram account, Adobe and Teardrops. If I have an article in another publication like no Depression or Good Country, I'll write about it there.

I'm also sort of slowly wading back into non Rainbow Rodeo music blogging. I'll just sort of. If I hear an album I like, I'll just dash off a little review about it there. But for the most part, my focus is Rainbow Rodeo.

So that's Rainbow Rodeo Mag, Instagram, Blue Sky Threads, Mastodon, which I'm still a champion of, even has its viability, seems to be fading into the distance.

Speaker C

00:07:03.940 - 00:07:08.340

You're the person that got me to open an account in Mastodon, and I still don't understand it.

Speaker A

00:07:08.820 - 00:07:16.210

Fantastic. We can do a whole episode on that too. There's some really interesting music projects going on there that I'm reading about myself.

Speaker C

00:07:16.530 - 00:07:21.650

I believe it and I Have a lot of room for growth, personally in understanding how that works.

Speaker B

00:07:21.650 - 00:07:22.290

But yeah.

Speaker C

00:07:23.890 - 00:07:32.370

So one of the threads for all of us is the love of live music. What are some venues that you've been to and just really the venue is as important as the music to you?

Speaker A

00:07:32.610 - 00:08:38.140

Yeah, totally. I was thinking about this. There's a little bar on Union street in Brooklyn near the R called Union hall.

And they pretty much only do stand up comedy now. There's like a fire in the basement where the venue was about 10 years ago.

And once it reopened, for whatever reason, they just haven't been doing live music in there, even though the room looks exactly the same. But before they did that, they often had a lot of great Americana and all country bands there. And whoever was a sound engineer sounded perfect.

It was a small room, but you could stand anywhere. And like Two Cow Garage, which is very kind of screamy. Well, not screamy, but blistery band.

Like you could stand anywhere in that room and you could hear the lyrics over the music. And I always really enjoyed going to see shows there.

But also I would have to shout out Brandon Saloon, also in Brooklyn, because that's where the queer country monthly shows took place. Those were hosted by Karen Pittleman of Karen and the Sorrows.

And that kind of helped me feel like I wasn't alone in appreciating this music while also being someone who wasn't like a cishet white person from the south.

Speaker C

00:08:38.800 - 00:08:55.280

Yeah.

So venues really are important spaces, especially spaces that offer that sense of community and welcoming that there's just something magical about that. I really appreciate the magic of music. Spaces that are able to provide that and create that for community.

Speaker A

00:08:56.080 - 00:11:11.260

Yeah, I'm very interested. I think New York is just like its own sort of animal when it comes to live music because there's only so many places you can perform.

And so it's not like any one venue can really afford to have like a brand, you know.

But I am sort of interested in the idea of like a venue where you could just show up without knowing who's playing and know that you'll probably like it. I think Rockwood Music hall came the closest to that in my experience because that was a venue that really focused on singer songwriters. Yeah.

Breaking the mold. I live in upper Manhattan and there's just not really a lot of storefront space up here, which means there's just not so many places to perform.

There's a big Dominican and increasingly Mexican community up here. So I know that there's like a whole sort of scene for like mariachi and DJs and things like that, that is just like totally off my radar.

But in terms of like rock or singer, songwriter and jazz, not too many places up here.

So one of the things I would like to explore is figuring out how to have more of a folk slash root scene in Upper Manhattan because a lot of musicians do live up here and the neighborhood is increasingly becoming more affordable than the places in Brooklyn that young people have been gravitating towards. So one venue I want to shout out is Penny Joe's. It's a bar on 163rd and Broadway.

I've been doing semi regular shows for Rainbow Rodeo, but for the most part they do jazz. Every night from 9 to 11 they have different jazz bands. The neighborhood is a really big jazz community.

Obviously it's close to Harlem, but also because it's very easy to pop down to Times Square, we have a lot of actual working musicians up here who work on Broadway or in jazz or classical music. So the people are here. We just need the physical space. And it's a really nice cocktail bar.

Some of the best drinks above 125th street and they've got really nice soups and salads so you can walk in and it just feels like a regular bar. It's not like bougie or anything like that, but they treat you really well and everything is just very thoughtful.

And they have a big rainbow flag in the back, so that always helps. But it's a really nice spot and I'm very happy that they've welcomed Rainbow Rodeo because it's so different from what they usually have there.

Speaker C

00:11:11.660 - 00:11:20.220

That is very cool. I love to hear that. Is there anything else about the music that you have coming up that you want to be sure people know?

In a bio episode for my picks.

Speaker A

00:11:20.220 - 00:12:50.020

You can mostly depend upon me for anything that has sort of crunchier rock sound. But I'm probably going to be bringing some jazz too. One of my friends recently asked me to describe the kind of jazz I like.

And I'm just not schooled enough in the history to really like or really anything. And I think that's what I like about it because I don't know a thing. So it's either like I like this or I don't, you know, And I don't.

It doesn't feel like homework. Like if I'm listening to country or Americana, I'm already writing the review in my head for jazz.

I have like no idea what I'm listening for other than my own response.

And so I'll probably be bringing in all kinds of stuff, but I am a bass player, so it will have inevitably some kind of strong groove or melodic hook.

It's not gonna be a lot of modern jazz tends to be, like, really discordant and kind of very intellectualized, and that's not the kind of jazz I'm into. But I will be bringing in whatever contemporary stuff I come across. There's just some really cool, cosmic stuff out there.

And also, like, my favorite music podcast in general is all Latino. Yeah, I speak Spanish.

But I love how the hosts, Felix and Anna Marie, they just love everything they talk about and you can tell they really care about the music they're picking. And they're so knowledgeable. And even if I don't always connect with the music, I care about it because they care about it.

And I also think it's an interesting model of how to feature art by people who have a specific part of their identity in common. But that doesn't mean that all of the music sounds the same by any stretch.

Speaker C

00:12:50.420 - 00:13:04.960

Ooh, definitely. I think you also turned me onto that particular podcast. And I will say that the first two episodes I listened to were their two episodes about.

About Bad Bunny. And I absolutely recommend that to everyone, especially folks who are like, who on earth is Bad Bunny?

These episodes are for you all Latino, easy to find from npr.

Speaker A

00:13:05.200 - 00:13:15.360

Yeah, it make me cry regularly. Just the. The passion, but also the defiance and, and strength in the music that they share.

And, you know, that's certainly what draws me to Queer country.

Speaker C

00:13:16.240 - 00:13:25.120

Definitely. Definitely. Well, Rachel Cholst, I'm so excited to have you be part of the regulars.

That's our recurring rotating crew of...

The Regulars: Amanda Miles, Former Music Writer and Discerning Fan

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

Amanda Miles joins us for a spirited chat about the magic of music and the venues that bring it to life. We're diving deep into the heart of what makes places like the Tabernacle in Atlanta and the Ryman in Nashville such special spots for music lovers. It's not just about the shows; it’s about the stories, the experiences, and that electric feeling when your favorite artist hits the stage. As Amanda shares her journey from a music writer to a passionate fan, we explore how music connects us on a human level, whether it’s the tunes that get us through tough times or the ones that make us rage. So, grab your drink of choice, kick back, and let’s indulge in some good music talk that’ll make you want to dig through your playlists for that perfect jam.

Amands Miles

Former entertainment writer/blogger, Currently serve as a nonprofit executive, leading development strategy at New Disabled South and is a self-described music nerd.

@Alabamapinesatl on Instagram

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club
00:48 - The Journey from Music Writer to Music Fan
02:21 - Exploring Favorite Music Venues
03:57 - The History of the Tabernacle Venue
04:36 - Connecting with Creativity: The Journey of Amanda Miles
05:20 - The Power of Music Connection

, Dive Bar Music Club, Amanda Miles podcast, 90s alt rock, music fan community, concert experiences, Atlanta music scene, music writing, favorite music venues, Tabernacle Atlanta, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, indie music recommendations, music playlists, music discussions, sharing music passion, listening to new music, music nerd culture, attending live shows, music fan connections, upcoming novel about music

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:00.320 - 00:00:03.680

This is Amanda Miles, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker B

00:00:04.960 - 00:00:47.720

We're all just here to share what we're currently obsessed with and maybe convince someone that, yes, that weird Icelandic synth folk band is worth a listen. Okay, that last one's probably me. Sloan Spencer. It's Dive Bar Music Club. Low key, high taste. Happy hour for music nerds.

Amanda Miles, we are so glad to have you be part of Dive Bar Music Club. What are you doing in the world of music these days?

Speaker A

00:00:48.120 - 00:01:07.010

Well, I'm a former entertainment writer. I would say I'm retired music writer, and I am just now a music fan. Now I'm attending concerts and listening to as many albums as I can.

But I formerly wrote for Atlanta Music Guide, Inside Atlanta, and just love attending shows now.

Speaker B

00:01:07.730 - 00:01:12.530

Ah. So what's kind of the longer version? How did you end up in music writing?

Speaker A

00:01:13.890 - 00:01:40.600

So I am a huge music fan. I've always been a writer all of my life. I've wrote poems and some songs and now working on the novel.

But when it comes to music, I don't have any instrumentation abilities. So I loved, like, taking my writing skills and going out into the world and like, using them for good.

My passion was sharing music that I loved with, you know, with the world, with the Internet. And now I'm here to share on this podcast.

Speaker B

00:01:41.800 - 00:01:50.840

This is fun. I can't wait to hear more as we all get to know each other down the road about the novel that you're working on.

I don't want to steal that now, but that's an exciting thing that I did not even know about.

Speaker A

00:01:52.200 - 00:01:58.840

Oh, thank you. Yeah, definitely, definitely going to have some appellation, music kind of influence.

Speaker B

00:02:00.280 - 00:02:20.600

Ooh. We have a couple of people that are part of this group with Dive Bar Music Club that will be super into that. Ah. Even more intriguing. Very exciting.

Well, so as you have been a fan of music for a really long time and kind of that person that turned other people on to new music. What sort of venues or places that you like to go hear music?

Speaker A

00:02:21.800 - 00:03:22.100

So my favorite venue is absolutely the Tabernacle in Atlanta, a former church that has been turned into a music venue. And there's just something special about the sound in that room.

You know, I've seen a lot of My favorite acts there, like BlackBerry Smoke, the Black Crows. My favorite artist of all time, Jason Isbell. And there's just something magical that happens in that room on those hardwoods.

And when it comes to Nashville, some other favorite venues. I love hearing folks at the Ryman. Same sort of thing, of course, like the mother church of country music.

And there is just something beautiful that happens in those hollowed in that room. You can't talk about favorite music venues without talking about Red Rocks. I've only been to the one show.

We're actually going back during May to listen to another one. But that venue is just incredible. The sound, but just the space, like the open space.

Seeing the stars above you while you're listening to the music is just something incredible.

Speaker B

00:03:22.820 - 00:03:44.740

Agreed. Definitely on the bucket list. Fun that you mentioned the Tabernacle. I love that place.

For y' all who have never had a chance to go to Atlanta and see a show at the Tabernacle. So I like to sit in the balconies, which is also sort of taking your life in your own hands. They shake if the show is wild enough.

It's a little scary. Oh, my gosh.

Speaker A

00:03:44.980 - 00:03:56.300

That is. We always do. We always do the balcony.

And yes, like, depending on how I the sound is turned up, you can absolutely feel it, like reverberating through the balcony on the floor beneath you.

Speaker B

00:03:57.100 - 00:04:06.620

When I was growing up in Atlanta, it was a church. And so the backstage area and the green rooms are also extremely entertaining because they're basically old Sunday school classrooms.

Speaker A

00:04:07.180 - 00:04:14.140

Oh, my goodness. That is incredible. I didn't know that. I didn't know that. That would be like, so fun to see.

Speaker B

00:04:15.580 - 00:04:23.990

Yeah, like, when you go back there, you're like, it's just really hard to reconcile the two because typically it's not a gospel related act. When you're seeing the show at the Tabernacle.

Speaker A

00:04:26.150 - 00:04:32.870

That's exactly what I'm picturing. I'm like the black crows and like the puffs of smoke that are probably happening just like filling up the Sunday school room.

Speaker B

00:04:32.950 - 00:04:45.910

That's pretty much exactly the experience. If people are wanting to know more about what you're doing creatively today or find some of your past work or connect with your upcoming novel.

How would folks find you online?

Speaker A

00:04:46.700 - 00:05:03.340

Yeah, they can find me on Instagram. It's Alabama Pines ATL and just give me a follow there.

And I share all about my work and any music I'm listening to and talk about the upcoming novel and would love to connect with fellow music fans there.

Speaker B

00:05:03.900 - 00:05:15.020

Fantastic. Alabama Pines atl That's easy enough to find on Instagram, y'. All. Very cool.

Well, Amanda Miles, we are super excited that you're going to be part of what we're doing here at Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker A

00:05:15.590 - 00:05:40.230

I'm so excited to jump in and take apart. I was sharing a little bit earlier.

I love talking to fellow music fans, and there's just something so special when you come together and share, like, what, you know, what makes your heart sing, what music touches you or what music helps you get through. Or sometimes, like, what music do you rage to? Sometimes that's just like that.

Having that human connection with each other through music is so special.

Speaker B

00:05:41.120 - 00:05:45.360

I agree with that, and I hadn't thought about it, but, yeah, rage. Music is an important part of life as well.

Speaker A

00:05:45.760 - 00:05:46.240

Yeah.

Speaker B

00:05:46.240 - 00:05:49.760

That might be an interesting, like, specific episode someday.

Speaker A

00:05:50.560 - 00:05:51.120

Yes.

Speaker B

00:05:51.680 - 00:05:52.320

I'm like.

Speaker A

00:05:52.320 - 00:05:54.320

I'm like, we need it. We need it in these times.

Speaker B

00:05:55.840 - 00:06:13.280

That's last call at Dive Bar Music Club. If you like the hang, follow the show, leave a review, and tell your algorithm, gosh darn it, we're worth it.

Better yet, share your favorite episode with a friend who actually stayed for the whole set. See y' all next time for the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.

The Regulars: Charles Hale of Driver 8 Records and Ajax Diner Book Club

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

We're diving deep into the world of independent music with Fort Collins, Colorado's very own Charles Hale, the mastermind behind Driver 8 Records and Ajax Diner Book Club. Charles is not just your average record store owner; he's a long-time community radio host and a passionate music advocate who believes that it’s all about taste, not trends. In our chat, we explore his journey from a curious high schooler raising his hand to get on the airwaves, to opening a boutique record store that fills a much-needed gap in his community. We reminisce about some legendary dive bars where the music flows as freely as the drinks, and Charles shares tales of unforgettable performances that remind us of the magic of live music. So grab your drink of choice, kick back, and let’s get to know the man behind the records and the radio waves, because this is all about the vibe, folks!

Bio

Show Notes

In this episode, we dive straight in with Charles Hale, the creative force behind Driver 8 Records and the Ajax Diner Book Club on KRFC radio. From spinning records on college radio to opening one of the city’s most beloved record stores, Charles shares the story of how passion, persistence, and community came together to build something truly special.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

The origin story of Driver 8 Records: How Charles turned a community need into a thriving record store that opened its doors in July 2022.
Behind the business plan: A year and a half of late nights, coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions, and the moment he knew it was time to take the leap.
Curating with heart: Why Driver 8 isn’t just about selling vinyl; it’s about creating a space where music lovers can discover something meaningful.
From radio to records: Charles’ journey from a volunteer college DJ to hosting a Friday afternoon radio show that celebrates his deep love for sound and storytelling.
Doing the “unfun work”: The lessons learned along the way about persistence, preparation, and embracing every part of the creative grind.
A tour through musical memories: Stories from dive bars and venues that shaped his appreciation for live music, like the Parish Baker Pub in Oxford, Mississippi, and Surfside 7 in Fort Collins.
Community at the core: How local scenes, shared spaces, and a good setlist can bring people together in lasting ways.

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

It’s an honest, inspiring, and down-to-earth chat that reminds us why independent music, and the people who champion it, matter so much. Whether you’re a crate digger, a small business dreamer, or just someone who loves a good story about following your heart, this one’s for you.

Listen now to hear how Charles Hale built more than a record store; he built a community around the joy of music.

Links

Get to know the rest of the Regulars
You might also like our other podcasts, Sleep with Rock Stars or Country Fried Rock
Toss a few coins in our Tip Jar!

Chapters

00:12 - Introducing Charles Hale: A Music Enthusiast
01:10 - Starting a Record Store: Charles Hale's Journey
02:49 - Journey into Radio and Writing
05:11 - Exploring Music Venues
06:01 - Music Venues Across America
06:59 - Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club

Takeaways

Charles Hale's journey into music began with a simple act of raising his hand, showcasing how opportunities can arise from just a willingness to volunteer.
At Driver 8 Records, we embrace a philosophy of taste over trends, ensuring that our selection resonates with true music aficionados.
Community radio plays a vital role in nurturing local music scenes, providing a platform for emerging artists and fostering connections among fans.
Dive bars like Surfside 7 in Colorado and Parish Baker Pub in Mississippi create intimate settings where unforgettable live music experiences thrive.
The essence of a boutique record store lies in its unique curation, where each vinyl tells a story and connects listeners to the heart of music culture.
Engaging with music on multiple fronts—from retail to radio—allows for a richer connection to the art form and strengthens community bonds.

Mentioned in this Episode

Driver 8 Records
Ajax Diner Book Club
Nine Bullets blog
KRFC radio
Fort Collins, Colorado
Oxford, Mississippi

, dive bar music, independent music podcast, Charles Hale interview, Fort Collins record store, Driver 8 Records, community radio, music fans, boutique record shop, music culture, vinyl records, music venues, live music experiences, music industry insights, radio show host, music recommendations, music community, emerging artists, music nerds, local music scene, record store owner

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:00.640 - 00:00:41.100

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Each week we're joined by a rotating cast of true music fans, people who live and breathe independent music.

This week, we're featuring one of the regulars, Fort Collins, Colorado, record store owner Charles Hale of Driver 8 Records and Ajax Diner Book Club. Hale has spent years in community radio. In the retail end of a boutique record shop, we're not about trends. We're all about taste.

Part hang, part deep dive, part time machine. So grab a drink, slide into the booth, and get to know Charles Hale, one of our regulars on Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker B

00:00:41.340 - 00:00:47.740

So, Charles Hale, I sure appreciate you being part of Dive Bar Music Club. What have you been up to in the world of music these days?

Speaker C

00:00:48.220 - 00:01:08.160

So it's every day I go to work, which is owning a record store. So every day I'm surrounded by music. And every week I host a radio show.

So I'm throughout the week thinking about what I want to play, how I want to put it together for my Friday afternoon radio show.

Speaker B

00:01:08.400 - 00:01:10.320

Tell me a little bit more about your record store.

Speaker C

00:01:10.560 - 00:01:45.770

So the record store opened in July of 2022. I decided about a year and a half before then that I wanted to open a record store.

I thought Fort Collins needed a better record store or a record store like I had in mind. And it took about a year and a half to write the business plan, figure everything out, most significantly, figure out how to pay for it.

So we specialize in new and used records. We're a small boutique store, but people seem to like us very nice.

Speaker B

00:01:45.770 - 00:01:54.560

So y' all should definitely check out the driver 8 records in Fort Collins, Colorado. So, Charles Hale, how on earth did you end up in the music business?

Speaker C

00:01:54.880 - 00:04:27.450

You know, it's a great question, and I think the simplest answer is that way back when I raised my hand, sometimes that's all it takes. I don't know how. I happened to learn while I was in high school that colleges had radio stations, that if you were a student, you could be a dj.

But once I learned that, that was my primary focus for going to college. So I just walked in to the campus radio station and said, hey, I want to do this. And went through the training, obviously, volunteer.

I did that for two years, dropped out, then went to another college. And a guy I moved in with was a deejay at that college station. And he said, hey, you should come down. So again, I raised my hand.

I go down there, I say I have some experience, and I get a midnight shift. Then years Later I'm reading the Nine Bullets blog and there happens to be a post that says, help wanted. We're looking for writers.

And so I fired off an email and said, hey, I've got a degree in creative writing. I know music, I'd love to write. So that happened.

Then a year or so after that, I was thinking about getting back in radio and looked at the community station in Fort Collins and I saw that the music director in his website bio read nine Bullets. And so I sent him an email, said, hey, I've done radio in the past. I write for Nine Bullets. I'd like to be involved.

So again, just sort of volunteering.

And then from that I also started helping put together a, like a mini roots festival by just saying after I attended the first year, saying, hey, I could help, if you need anything, let me know. So again, you just sort of raise your hand, you volunteer.

And then I think it's important to be willing to do the unfun work because everybody in music wants to do the fun work. And then with the record store, that's sort of me just raising my hand to myself of saying, here is something that I think my community needs.

I feel like this is something I might could be good at and let me see if I can figure out a way to make it happen. And then we're three and a half years in to the record store and people come by every day and buy records.

Speaker B

00:04:28.090 - 00:04:34.410

Definitely check out Driver 8 records and folks can contact you online if they have any, like, special orders and stuff, can't they?

Speaker C

00:04:34.790 - 00:04:48.470

Yes, we've got a website, we've got Facebook, we've got Instagram, and just recently we launched a Discogs page. So we sell some of our, our used inventory on Discogs.

Speaker B

00:04:48.950 - 00:04:57.830

Very cool. So, yeah, definitely Driver 8 Records, both online as well as in Fort Collins, Colorado for the boutique shop. But also Ajax Diner Book Club is.

Speaker C

00:04:57.830 - 00:05:05.460

The radio show which is also streaming, streaming online@krfcfm.org Fantastic.

Speaker B

00:05:05.460 - 00:05:21.820

Community radio, always part of any great arts community and vital these days to emerging music. Well, Charles, one of the things we all love are the different venues that make the music even more magical.

Are there any places in the past or in the present that you love to go see or hear music?

Speaker C

00:05:22.460 - 00:06:31.460

No. Sticking with the dive bar theme, there are two, two dive bars in my past that are worth mentioning. One was when I was living in Oxford, Mississippi.

There was a small bar called the Parish Baker Pub. They had music there fairly regularly, but there was never a cover charge.

So sort of on their way up at Parish's Bar, I saw J. Roddy Walson in the business. I saw Cedric Burnside, I saw American Aquarium and I saw Pokey La Farge. Never paid a dollar for any of them.

And then the other one is out here in Colorado. It's called Surfside 7. There, there was, you know, a five or ten dollar cover charge. But over the years I've gotten to see people like Charlie Parr.

I saw John Morland play to 11 people there. Arlis, Nancy, and of course our hometown heroes Drag the River have played there a bunch.

So Surfside 7 in Colorado and Parrish Baker Pub in Oxford, Mississippi.

Speaker A

00:06:31.940 - 00:06:32.380

Wow.

Speaker B

00:06:32.380 - 00:06:38.300

Absolutely fantastic. And for me it's fun to learn about places that are the space for.

Speaker A

00:06:38.300 - 00:06:39.380

Different parts of the country.

Speaker B

00:06:39.460 - 00:06:41.540

So thank you so much. I appreciate it.

Speaker C

00:06:41.860 - 00:06:43.420

Absolutely awesome.

Speaker B

00:06:43.420 - 00:06:46.260

Well Charles, where would you like people to be able to find you?

Speaker C

00:06:46.500 - 00:06:54.980

Instagram. The Instagram is driver the number 8 Rex R E C s easy to find.

Speaker B

00:06:54.980 - 00:07:02.540

Y' all should definitely stop by. I know that. And of course from one of my all time favorite bands. As folks who listen to this new show, Dive Bar Music Club will definitely.

Speaker A

00:07:02.540 - 00:07:20.810

Find out that's last call at Dive Bar Music Club. If you like the hang, follow the show, leave a review and tell your algorithm, gosh darn it, we're worth it.

Better yet, share your favorite episode with a friend who actually stayed for the whole set. See y' all next time for the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.

The Regulars: Nelson Gullet of WDVX from College Radio to Americana Guru

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Join us as we dive deep into the eclectic world of independent music with the one and only Nelson Gullett from WDVX in Knoxville, Tennessee. We’re not just sipping drinks; we’re pouring over the rich tapestry of sounds that connect the past and present of roots music. Nelson shares his journey from college radio to crafting a show that showcases diverse voices and classic influences, all while keeping it fresh and engaging. We’ll explore the venues that shaped his musical palate and, trust me, you’ll want to hear about his first encounter with Kasey Chambers that sparked a love affair with Americana music. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s unravel the threads of music that define us in this laid-back, high-taste gathering of music aficionados.

Nelson Gullett

Nelson was born in the deep dark hills of Eastern Kentucky in a town called Paintsville... just a few miles away from Loretta Lynn's cabin on the hill. He initially cut his musical teeth on pop artists of the 80s. Somewhere along the way, though, his mother instilled a love for songwriters such as Paul Simon and Jim Croce while his dad exposed him to early rockabilly rebels and the pioneers of rock and roll. Nelson was eventually introduced to the band R.E.M., and their blend of southern folk/rock in high school. In college, it was the Dave Matthews Band’s brand of roots-based jams that provoked him to drive for hours just to get to the next show. In college, he became fully engrossed in Americana music and stated hosting Americana Crossroads on Morehead State Public Radio. Nelson moved to Knoxville and started working for WDVX in 2006, where he now serves as Development Director and host of the weekly Americana Pulse radio show.

Nelson's Website

Nelson on YouTube

Catch Our Other Network Podcasts

Country Fried Rock -- the 2009-2020 archives resurrected, every Friday
Sleep with Rock Stars -- the Gen X sleep podcast, every other Tuesday
Toss a few in our Tip Jar

Dive Bar Music Club, independent music podcast, Nelson Gullett interview, Americana music, WDVX Knoxville, community radio, music knowledge, music trends, roots music, music recommendations, live music venues, music history, music exploration, music fandom, music appreciation, folk music, bluegrass music, music festivals, supporting local radio, music culture

Chapters

00:12 - Introducing the Cast of Characters
01:37 - Nelson's Musical Journey
03:12 - The Awakening of a Music Enthusiast
04:23 - Musical Memories of a Small Town
07:27 - Supporting the Arts: How to Help WDVX
08:00 - Fall Fund Drive Announcement

Takeaways

The Dive Bar Music Club is all about chilled vibes and deep music discussions, making it a special hangout for music enthusiasts.
Nelson Gullett's extensive experience in independent radio truly enriches the conversations around music's evolution and its diverse influences.
Understanding how past music influences the present is key; it's all about connecting the dots through genres and artists.
The significance of venues in shaping music memories cannot be overstated; they serve as cultural touchstones in our musical journeys.
Supporting community radio like WDVX is crucial, especially during tough times for arts nonprofits; every small donation counts.
The podcast encourages listeners to engage with music, whether through live shows or online platforms, to keep the spirit of independent music alive.

Mentioned in this Episode

WDVX
Morehead State University
NPR
Mountain Stage
Beale Street Caravan
Kasey Chambers
Buddy Miller
Graham Parsons
Emmylou Harris
Lucinda Williams
Rodney Crowell
Dar Williams
James McMurtry
Wilco
Yankee Hotel Foxtrot
Greg Brown
Webb Wilder
Junior Brown
Clack Mountain String Band
Tyler Childers
Chris Stapleton
Iron and Wine
BlueSky
Threads
YouTube

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:00.640 - 00:00:47.780

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Each week we're joined by a rotating cast of true music fans, people who live and breathe independent music.

This week, I'll introduce you to one of our rotating cast of characters, veteran community radio host Nelson Gullett, currently with WDVX in Knoxville, Tennessee. He spent years in the trenches of independent radio and now bringing an incredible depth of real world music knowledge to our roundtable.

We're not about trends, we're about taste. Part hang, part deep dive, part time machine.

Grab your drink and pull up a stool and let's join Nelson Gullett for this week's session, a Dive Bar Music club. Hey, Nelson, thanks so much for joining us here with Dive Bar Music Club. So what have you been up to lately in the world of music?

Speaker B

00:00:48.340 - 00:01:15.280

What I try to do on my show is play a bunch of new music, highlight some diverse voices, and go back into the classics so we can connect and see how the music of the past is informing the present. Because that's a lot of what current roots music is.

There's so much to draw from, so many influences from the past and so many people out there blending all of that in interesting ways. And that's what I try to highlight on my show every week.

Speaker A

00:01:15.760 - 00:01:29.020

I think that's what makes your show so special. And I'm so glad that you've decided to be part of this adventure where we're figuring it out as we go. With Dive Bar Music Club.

You'll bring a lot of experience and knowledge to the conversations for a really broad range of music, which is important.

Speaker B

00:01:29.820 - 00:01:34.940

Yeah. Well, thank you for inviting me. I'm excited to be a part of whatever this is going to be.

Speaker A

00:01:35.260 - 00:01:44.220

Who knows yet? This will be fun. Nelson, we've known each other for a pretty long time, but I don't actually know how you ended up this deep in the world of music.

Speaker B

00:01:44.540 - 00:03:25.560

Well, it kind of started. I went to college. I was at Morehead State University.

I was undeclared into my junior year and finally just I gave up and started working at the college radio station. Right. I was doing the news internship, NPR newscast, working in the sports department, graduated, went to work in the world of commercial radio.

I was a news director at a commercial station in eastern Kentucky. And I got so bored with that that I went back to grad school.

And the music director there at Morehead State Public Radio knew I was a fan of, offered me an Americana shift. They had just started doing an Americana show four nights A week. And I didn't know what that was. He tried to explain it to me.

There was a lot of talk about country music, and I didn't want any part of it. This was the early 2000s. I thought country music was all Garth Brooks and Billy Ray Cyrus, and I. I turned him down.

So his response was to stick me on a Friday night board op shift from 8 to midnight. And he made me listen to the Mountain Stage in E Town and Beale Street Caravan every week for a semester.

I heard Casey Chambers one night on a Friday night. I was in his office Monday morning saying, who is this person? What can you tell me about it? He gave me the Barricades and Brick Walls album.

From that record, I discovered Buddy Miller and Graham Parsons and Emmylou Harris and Lucinda. A few months later, I'm seeing Casey Chambers live on the Mountain stage. And that same show had Rodney Crowell and Dar Williams and James McMurtry.

And I just. I kept jumping deeper and deeper, connecting the dots. Ended up just kind of hooked.

Speaker A

00:03:26.360 - 00:03:30.200

This is fantastic. And I did not know that origin story.

Speaker B

00:03:31.000 - 00:04:04.030

You know, it took a while. There was a period where I was, you know, in the local record shop once a week.

I bought the entire Uncle Tupelo discography in one go and just dove into it A few weeks later. It was all of Wilco up to Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. You know, just little by little, I would take records home off the shelf every week.

And one weekend it's all Greg Brown. The next weekend it was all, you know, Webb Wilder or Junior Brown. And it just. It got into my bones.

Speaker A

00:04:04.910 - 00:04:21.450

This is fabulous. I love this, and I love the breadth of it, especially because I know what you're into nowadays as well.

And so you really have incredibly deep knowledge of music. And you do a really good job of explaining that to people.

And that's one of the reasons that I was like, yes, Nelson's going to be part of Dive Bar Music Club. This is great.

Speaker B

00:04:21.450 - 00:04:22.170

Well, thank you.

Speaker A

00:04:22.570 - 00:04:30.810

Absolutely.

I know we all don't get out to see as much live music as we would want, but do you have any favorite venues over the years that you've enjoyed seeing music?

Speaker B

00:04:31.210 - 00:05:55.480

You know, again, I grew up in a small town. There was no live music unless, like, Lee Greenwood came to the high school gym during the fall festival. Like, that was.

That was the only thing we kind of had. Growing up. When I got to doing the Americana work at my college station, there was a joint in Lexington, Kentucky, called the Dame.

And it was just right there in the middle of Downtown Lexington. We had an underwriting agreement with them where we would promote their shows and pretty much any show I wanted to.

I had a pair of tickets I could drive.

It was about an hour to Lexington from where I was and I would go see Nico Case and Scott Miller and Alejandro Escovedo and Old Crow Medicine show over the Rhine. They all played this joint, Iron and Wine I saw there. So it was about an hour away.

I didn't get there like every weekend or whatever, but, you know, every couple of months or so I would just take off after an air shift and drive up to Lexington and see what I could see. Morehead didn't really have anything at the time. It was still a dry city. So there. There was no. A few festivals here and there.

I would go see the Clack Mountain String Band, which was Jesse Wells, who now plays with Tyler Childer. Sometimes Chris Stapleton would sit in with them. But that was. That was. That was pretty much all we had back there.

So you had to travel to Lexington or I would go to Charleston to see the mountain stage. But that was. That was. That was pretty much it.

Speaker A

00:05:56.920 - 00:06:18.100

That was it. Anyway, good times. Good times. Yeah. It's funny how like venues can bring up such spec memories of like time, place, music, all of that sort of stuff.

I'm sure we'll be talking a lot more about that as we all get to know one another through the course of Dive bar Music club. One of the things I want to be sure people get a chance to do is share where they want to be found online.

Speaker B

00:06:18.980 - 00:07:11.370

My primary presence right now is Blue Sky, I guess@nelsonwdbx. I'm also on Instagram, which that posts to to threads as well. Though I'm not super active over there, those are probably the best places to find me.

Also wdvx.com My show is on Wednesday nights from 7 to 10:30 Eastern Time. I'll pop up occasionally in some other places, but we are 24 7. Americana music, folk blues, bluegrass, whatever we can throw in.

We have specialty shows that are all bluegrass. We've got an all blue show. We have, you know, different things at different times. We do live music six days a week.

Every Monday through Saturday at noon, there's a live show called the Blue Plate Special. You can stream all of that@wdvx.com and find some of those live videos through our YouTube channel too.

Speaker A

00:07:11.930 - 00:07:31.290

WDVX is really special, based in Knoxville, Tennessee, but obviously through the joy of the Internet, one of the upsides is being able to hear such eclectic and really thoughtful programming. We know that we are dealing with difficult times with arts nonprofits specifically right now.

How can people who find WDVX help you all out these days?

Speaker B

00:07:31.610 - 00:08:32.690

Well, they can go to our website, wdvx.com there's a support page where you can make a one time donation. You can become a sustaining member of the radio station as well, where you can do $5 a month, $10 a month, that sort of thing.

We have an online shop as well through the website or you know, even something as simple as watching those YouTube videos, sharing, liking, subscribing that, you know, helps us out in the, the algorithm and boost that funding a little bit. But we're about to kick off a fall fund drive in November.

We just had an emergency kind of recovery fund drive in August where we raised over a hundred thousand dollars in a month to replace most of what we lost through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting for this year. That's, that's money that we lose every year going forward. So we're working on ways to cover that too.

But yeah, the best thing to do is just to go to the website, wdvx.comsupport that'll take you straight to a donation portal.

Speaker A

00:08:32.930 - 00:08:58.650

Perfect. And I hope that folks do stop in and check that out because of course we want everyone to continue helping support.

The arts and the music are an important part of everybody's life. And that's why we're all here to hang out with Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaking of which, it is important that y' all stop by, subscribe in, whatever your favorite podcast app is. Give those thumbs up likes, ratings, reviews, all the good stuff. You don't want any nice to say, feel free to step aside.

Nelson Gullett, thanks so much for being part of what we're going to be doing here with Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker B

00:08:59.130 - 00:09:01.850

Yeah, thank you, Sloan. I'm, I'm excited to see where this goes.

Speaker A

00:09:02.810 - 00:09:20.230

That's last call at Dive Bar Music Club. If you like the hang, follow the show, leave a review and tell your algorithm, gosh darn it, we're worth it.

Better yet, share your favorite episode with a friend who actually stayed for the whole set. See y' all next time for the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.

The Regulars: Chad Cochran AKA CowtownChad, Music Photographer and Visual Artist

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Bio

Chad Cochran

Ohio based music and potrait photographer.

Chad's Website

Chad on YouTube

@cowtownchad on Instagram

Chad's Facebook page

Summary

Chad Cochran, better known as CowtownChad, takes us on a laid-back journey through the vibrant world of independent music in this episode of Dive Bar Music Club. We dive into his experiences as a live music and portrait photographer, where he seamlessly transitions between capturing electrifying live performances and intimate backstage moments. Chad's love for Americana music runs deep, and he shares tales from his time at iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and the Beachland Ballroom, where the magic of music truly comes alive. Throughout our chat, we explore the evolution of his artistic journey, from a punk rock kid to a sought-after photographer, and how those gritty dive bars laid the foundation for honing his craft. So, grab your favorite drink and join us for a candid conversation that’s sure to resonate with music lovers and aspiring artists alike!

Show Notes

Welcome back to another laid-back session of Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. This week, we’re pulling up a stool with someone who's seen it all from behind the lens: music photographer and filmmaker Chad Cochran, aka CowtownChad.

Here’s what went down:

Meet Chad Cochran: portrait photographer, music video filmmaker, and the guy behind the camera at some of your favorite Americana shows.
Chad’s journey from punk metal kid to the Americana scene (thanks to a cowboy hat and a certain host).
He’s worked with big names and captured quiet moments, both live on stage and backstage at festivals.

This summer’s lineup included:

Nelsonville Music Festival
Pickin’ in the Backwoods
Healing Appalachia
Woody Guthrie Folk Festival, where Chad was also a guest speaker on mental health in music.

Trivia Night:

Fun fact: Chad didn’t pick up a camera until he was 40. Now at 53, he's built a career shooting festivals, portraits, and raw emotional moments in music.
His first band? A “horrible” high school group called Stonehenge. But it laid the foundation for a creative path back to music decades later.
Favorite venues? The iconic Ryman Auditorium tops the list, but the Beachland Ballroom in Cleveland is where he honed his chops in tricky, low-light dives.
Why small venues matter for music photographers: they’re gritty, they’re real, and they’re the perfect training ground before the big stages.

Where to find him online:

Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and TikTok
Username: @CowtownChad
Yes, he's talking about music on TikTok (because his kids made him download it and a PR friend told him to find a niche).

Thanks again to Chad for joining our crew of rotating regulars, and yes, you’re definitely going to want to hear more from him in future episodes.

Last Call Reminder

Like the vibe? Follow the show, leave a review, and share it with a friend who stays till the very last note. See you next time at Dive Bar Music Club, where the love of music always takes center stage.

Links

Chad Cochran
Get to know the rest of the Regulars on Dive Bar Music Club
You might also like Sloane Spencer's Gen X sleep podcast, Sleep with Rock Stars

Chapters

00:19 - Introducing Cowtown Chad
00:45 - Exploring the World of Music Photography
03:35 - Exploring Musical Venues
05:19 - The Journey of Cowtown Chad
06:14 - Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club

Takeaways

Chad Cochran, aka Cowtown Chad, shares his journey from a rural landscape photographer to a sought-after music photographer, highlighting his passion for Americana music.
The significance of small venues like Beachland Ballroom in honing photography skills is emphasized, showcasing their unique charm in the music scene.
Our podcast revolves around true music fans and their stories, creating an intimate space for sharing the magic of live music experiences.
Chad's eclectic background in various music genres, from punk to Americana, adds depth to his photography and feeds his creative spirit.
The discussion touches on mental health in the music industry, showcasing a thoughtful approach to the challenges artists face in this field.
Listeners are encouraged to engage with the show, emphasizing the community aspect of music appreciation and sharing favorite episodes with friends.

dive bar music club, independent music podcast, music photography, Chad Cochran, Cowtown Chad, live concert photography, music festivals, backstage portraits, Americana music, portrait photographer, music venues, Ryman auditorium, Beachland Ballroom, concert photography tips, music industry insights, mental health and music, music nerds, local music scenes, music podcast recommendations, low key happy hour

Mentioned in this Episode

Dive Bar Music Club
Uncle Tupelo
Wilco
Bottle Rockets
Sun Volt
Nelsonville Music Festival
Picking in the Backwoods
Healing Appalachia
Woody Guthrie Folk Festival
Ryman Auditorium
Beachland Ballroom

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:01.040 - 00:00:06.960

Hello, this is Chad Cochran, also known as Cowtown Chad. And this is Dive Bar Music Club.

Speaker B

00:00:08.000 - 00:00:49.930

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Each week we're joined by a rotating cast of true music fans, people who live and breathe independent music.

I'll introduce you to one of our rotating cast of characters, portrait photographer and music video filmmaker Chad Cochran, who you probably know as Cowtown Chad. So grab a drink, pull up a stool, and join Chad Cochran on this week's session of Dive Bar Music Club.

We've been really grateful to get to chat with all the folks who are going to be part of our regulars here on Dive Bar Music Club, helping y' all get to know who they are. So, Chad Cochran, what exactly do you do in the world of music these days?

Speaker A

00:00:50.490 - 00:01:50.800

So I am a live music and portrait photographer. I do. I partner with a lot of music festivals where I do backstage portraits for them, but I also shoot live concerts.

So I will kind of like pop back and forth between doing backstage portraits and then go and do live music. But I'm also, over the last several years, have been known for doing a lot of portraits with musicians that many of us know.

I kind of grew up a, like, metalhead. I mean, really like a punk kid.

And I ended up, you know, actually, thanks to you, Sloan, working I took photos of somebody in a cowboy hat, and I suddenly became the person that takes pictures of people with cowboy hats. I have a long love of Americana music all the way back to, like, Uncle Tupelo, Wilco, Bottle Rockets, Sunbolt.

And now it is primarily where you see my photos. I have been very busy this summer doing music festival, both portraits and live music photography.

Speaker B

00:01:51.310 - 00:01:57.270

Very cool. Can you give us any little hints or tidbits of what you've been working on this summer?

Speaker A

00:01:57.270 - 00:02:17.790

I did backstage portraits at the Nelsonville Music Festival. I also did backstage portraits at Picking in the Backwoods.

And then I also attended Healing Appalachia that I've worked with the last couple years, as well as I was a guest speaker because I also have a mental health series at the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival in Okemah, Oklahoma.

Speaker B

00:02:18.260 - 00:02:35.220

I cannot wait till we all get a chance to talk a little bit more about some of your past projects and what you have coming up. This is going to be a real treat for our listeners here at Dive Bar Music Club.

Thanks so much for deciding to join us here with Dive Bar Music Club as one of our rotating cast characters. I'm jokingly calling the regulars. How did you end up in music.

Speaker A

00:02:36.020 - 00:03:21.440

You know, in high school, we had a really horrible band called Stonehenge. But that gave me the foundation to go to college. And when I was in college, I played in some, like, grungy pop punk bands and.

And then raised a family. And then as the kids became less dependent on me, I kind of, like, slid in the back door.

When at the time, I was a rural landscape photographer, and I had a musician reach out to me about doing some portraits. Not something I ever did, but the way that. That ended up working is it kind of got me back into the music industry.

You know, I'm one of those weird people that didn't. Didn't own a camera until I was 40. I'm 53 right now. And the last 10 years has been a wild ride.

Speaker B

00:03:22.720 - 00:03:49.530

Absolutely.

These are all the sort of teases of stories that I cannot wait for everybody to hear more about, because some of the real truth of what y' all have been doing is just head scratching. Fabulous. So fun, fun, fun. Thank you.

One of the things we've loved getting to chat about here on Dive Bar Music club is the places where we go to hear music that really have stuck out to us over the years. What are some kind of venues or spaces that have really helped make the music more magical for you?

Speaker A

00:03:49.770 - 00:05:01.670

I've been incredibly fortunate to shoot at some pretty cool places.

I think kind of the pinnacle for me, or like, the place I enjoy the most is the Ryman auditorium in Nashville, which is just a beautiful experience to see a place to see music. But I think the place that really, I kind of honed my skills living in the Cleveland area right now.

The Beechland Ballroom and Tavern has a, you know, a very long history of having some really cool shows there and breaking a lot of bands, you know, when they were small.

And as a music photographer, I think working in those low light, small venues and really kind of honing your skills there, once you get to a different level of concert photography and there is magical light as opposed to, you know, those. Those dark. Those dark, shady bars that we've all spent time in. I think that's. That's. It's your practice. Right?

Like, that's the place that you can kind of get started, start to develop those skills, and it really makes things considerably easier once you start to propel yourself further.

Speaker B

00:05:02.150 - 00:05:08.470

Absolutely. I. I love a magical little space like that. It's just. Will always be deeply in my heart.

Speaker A

00:05:10.040 - 00:05:10.440

Me too.

Speaker B

00:05:11.080 - 00:05:18.680

Fun times. Fun times. Beachland Ballroom. Fantastic place.

Y' all should definitely check it out if you're ever up in the Cleveland, Ohio area, where would you like people to find you?

Speaker A

00:05:19.080 - 00:05:44.740

I have taken this moniker online and I jokingly always say that it's like having a band that picks a really bad band name and then has a hit. That's essentially what I'm living with. So I online use the name Cowtown Chad, like the farm animal cow town and then my name Chad.

So Cowtown Chad, you can find me on Instagram, threads, Facebook and you also can find me on TikTok talking about music.

Speaker B

00:05:45.700 - 00:05:49.700

Ah, I am not a tiktoker. I will have to check that out. Fun to know.

Speaker A

00:05:50.020 - 00:06:07.780

Yeah, it's been, it's been a cool experience.

I downloaded it because my kids used it and then somebody that I worked with previously who did see some PR for me strongly suggested that I find a niche and dive into it. So talking about music is what I've chosen to do there.

Speaker B

00:06:08.620 - 00:06:22.060

This is a whole new world. I didn't even know. Fun. I will have to check this out a little more.

Well, Chad Cochran, AKA Cowtown Chad, we're so glad that you're going to be part of the regulars here on Dive Bar Music Club. Thank you.

Speaker A

00:06:22.380 - 00:06:24.299

Of course I'm excited and can't wait for more.

Speaker B

00:06:25.100 - 00:06:42.560

That's last call at Dive Bar Music Club. If you like the hang, follow the show, leave a review and tell your algorithm. Gosh darn it, we're worth it.

Better yet, share your favorite episode with a friend who actually stayed for the whole set. See y' all next time for the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.

The Regulars: Caitlin Cary Cheers Change, Shifting from Music to Art

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 03:33:00 -0400

Summary

Caitlin Cary joins us for a thoughtful and downright inspiring chat about her creative evolution, from the indie rock trenches to the calm, tactile world of fabric collage art, which she affectionately calls her “needle prints.” We dig into how this shift has opened up new ways for her to express herself, offering both artistic freedom and a healthy bit of distance from the grind of life on stage.

Caitlin also gets reflective about her roots in Raleigh, North Carolina, the places, people, and memories that shaped her, and how the city’s constant transformation nudged her to start preserving its essence through her artwork.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a conversation among musicians without a few good laughs: we revisit her whirlwind years as co-founder of Whiskeytown alongside Ryan Adams, swap stories about the unpredictable charm of dive-bar gigs and bartending shifts, and touch on what it means to keep creating, no matter the medium.

So, pour yourself something good, settle in, and join us as we explore the crossroads of music and visual art with Caitlin Cary. She’s full of sharp insight, warmth, and a few recommendations you won’t want to miss.

Bio

Chapters

00:15 - The Shift in Artistic Expression
02:55 - Transitioning from Art to Music
04:14 - The Journey into Music and Art
06:32 - Navigating the Craft Cocktail World
08:38 - The Excitement of Music Recommendations

Show Notes

In this episode of Dive Bar Music Club, we sit down with Caitlin Cary, a former touring musician turned visual artist, for a heartfelt conversation about her journey from the indie music scene to creating stunning fabric collage art, which she calls "needle prints."

Caitlin opens up about how she made the transition away from music and found solace in a new form of artistic expression. We explore the personal connection she has to her hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina, and how the ever-changing landscape of the city inspired her to start documenting its most beloved landmarks through her art. Caitlin shares how this shift in focus has given her the creative distance she needed while still maintaining a fulfilling artistic career.

From her early days as a classically trained violinist to her unexpected entry into the world of indie rock with Whiskeytown, Caitlin's journey into music was as unpredictable as it was transformative. She reflects on the chaotic, yet rewarding years spent in the music industry, the quirks of dive bars, and what it means to live the life of a working musician.

We also talk about the humble, yet vital, venues that played a huge role in her life, both as a performer and a bartender, including Raleigh's own Humble Pie and The Pour House Music Hall.

And of course, we discuss Caitlin's recent achievements, including having her artwork featured in the North Carolina Museum of Art, a long-awaited dream come true.

Listen in for:

Caitlin's transition from music to visual art
The inspiration behind her "needle prints" and how they connect to her roots
Stories from her time touring with Ryan Adams and bartending in dive bars
The challenge of navigating the modern craft cocktail scene as a non-drinker
Her thoughts on how music, art, and community intertwine

Where to Find Caitlin:

Note: If you’re searching for her past music, be wary of some...colorful results when you Google "Tres Chicas."

Subscribe, Rate & Review:

If you’re loving the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show. And as always, share your favorite episodes with friends who appreciate good music, good art, and great conversation.

Dive Bar Music Club is your low-key, high-taste happy hour for music nerds. See you next time!

Takeaways

Caitlin Cary's transition from music to visual art highlights the dynamic nature of creativity; it's all about finding what resonates with your soul.
The concept of needleprints serves as a fascinating analogy for the artistic process, marrying personal history with tangible expression in fabric.
The Dive Bar Music Club fosters a unique community for indie music lovers, inviting deep discussions and connections over shared passions.
Caitlin's experiences in venues like Poorhouse Music Hall illustrate the importance of local music scenes in shaping both artists and audiences alike.
Ryan Adams' serendipitous invitation to Caitlin (who then co-founded Whiskeytown) underscores the unpredictable paths that often lead to fulfilling artistic careers in music.
Caitlin's reflections on homesickness and change resonate deeply, reminding us that art often emerges from the need to document and preserve our personal histories.

Links

caitlincary.com
Get to know some of our other Regulars

Mentioned in This Episode

Tres Chicas
Humble Pie
Pour House Music Hall
NC State
North Carolina Art Museum

, podcast about music, independent music discussion, visual artist interviews, Caitlin Cary podcast, creativity and music, fabric collage art, music industry insights, indie music scene, musicians transitioning to art, music venues Raleigh, Dive Bar Music Club, retired musicians, exploring creativity, art and music connection, music recommendations podcast, storytelling in music, fabric art techniques, crafting and music, touring musician experiences, music community discussions

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:02.400 - 00:00:33.850

Well, mostly unenvious quitter. Of course. I haven't quit creativity, but I certainly have. For the most part, or at least for now, I've quit music.

I found an art form that is not made out of my body and out of my soul. Somehow, like there's this super comforting remove between what I am and what I make that is like, I'm so happy.

Speaker B

00:00:35.130 - 00:01:19.030

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Each week we're joined by a rotating cast of regulars, people who live and breathe independent music.

This week, we're introducing you to Caitlin Carey, a happily retired touring musician and celebrated visual artist.

Carrie spent years in the trenches of the indie scene, and now she'll be bringing a lot of that real world music knowledge to our barstool roundtable. Part hang, part deep dive. It's Dive Bar Music Club.

Grab your drink, pull up a chair, and let's dive in with Caitlin Carey on this episode of Dive Bar Music Club. Caitlin, you've been doing some beautiful creative work lately that's kind of taken you away from music. What have you been up to?

Speaker A

00:01:19.580 - 00:01:47.840

Yeah. Thank you. For about the past decade, I've been making fabric collage. I made up a name for it because the words weren't really there.

But I call it needle print. And basically it's sort of a friend of quilting.

But I sew fabric onto canvas and I'm very feeling very lucky that I've been able to sort of make a big transition into different form of art that's also my living.

Speaker B

00:01:48.080 - 00:01:54.480

I think I first got to know that work. When you were doing some representations of historic buildings in North Carolina.

Speaker A

00:01:55.520 - 00:02:54.950

Yes.

It's funny, I do connect that to my music life, mostly in the sense that I think that I spent a lot of time being really homesick, and home is Raleigh, North Carolina, and it felt like every time I came home, some building that I loved had been torn down or something had changed. And I'm generally like a not into change person, but I.

It sort of made me feel this strong urge to start documenting the places that made my home feel like my home. And that sort of merged with this way of making art out of fabric that developed into a whole, you know, my whole thing for a number of years.

I've kind of decided I don't want to be the lady that makes landmarks forever. But I certainly enjoyed doing it. And it. I feel very lucky that I.

That it resonated for people and it gave me a foothold in a new, you know, in a whole new career.

Speaker B

00:02:55.670 - 00:02:59.670

So Caitlin Carey, how did you end up having a life in music?

Speaker A

00:03:01.110 - 00:04:38.990

Utterly by accident. I mean, I studied violin from a very young age. I started at 4 and was pretty serious until about 16 when I gave it up for.

I don't know what 16 year olds do, but at least for me it wasn't classical violin. And for a while I stopped and then picked it back up again in college. But through sort of beginning of a career in music was very accidental.

I was in graduate school at NC State and I don't even remember that I told anybody that I was a musician, but I guess I did.

And I got a phone call out of the blue from Ryan Adams saying that he was starting a band and he heard that I was a fiddle player and did I want to be in a band. And I don't even know also why I said yes to that because it was insane.

I was teaching and in a more or less serious academic path heading towards probably trying to become an author, but certainly trying to teach and be in academia. And instead I ran away with the circus, so to speak.

And it really was a circus that launched into a couple decades of, of making music as my livelihood and my life. If asked, I would refer to myself as a visual artist and my goal is to be in the art museum. Well, actually I've achieved that goal.

I got in the art in the real life North Carolina Art Muse just recently.

Speaker B

00:04:39.230 - 00:04:42.430

So congratulations. That is just spectacular.

Speaker A

00:04:42.510 - 00:04:51.710

Thank you. It really feels great. It's a tiny little piece in a, in a little group show. But hey, I didn't have to die to get in the art museum.

Speaker B

00:04:53.950 - 00:05:12.350

Obviously this podcast is dive bar music club and music venues are a huge part of what all of us love.

But have there been any small to medium places and spaces that have really spoken to you with music, whether performing or seeing or just being part of a community?

Speaker A

00:05:13.550 - 00:06:32.700

Oh absolutely. I could say name several in Raleigh and I've also worked in them a lot.

I worked at Humble Pie, which was a restaurant most of the time that turned into a show venue on the weekends where we, we would be washing the dishes and then move all the tables out of the way and set up the stage. And sometimes I would be the person that went out and played on that stage and sometimes we just got to see great shows.

And yeah, there's also the Poorhouse Music hall in Raleigh which is still going as one of our really great sort of mid size clubs. And I both Skillet and I, my husband Skillet and I have Bartended there.

It's been a while now, but that was a big part of our supplemental income when we were. When we were musicians touring. You know, you. You can hold down a job even when you're gone a lot if you're a decent bartender.

I really couldn't be a bartender now in most places because the world of, you know, the well a. I don't really drink. I don't drink anymore. But also the craft cocktail world has all that muddling of fresh herbs and.

Speaker B

00:06:32.700 - 00:06:45.420

Shit that developed after I stopped drinking. So, like, I have. I'm completely clueless when people talk about it. I'm like, I'm sorry. Last time I drank was like, bucket of beer era. So sorry.

Speaker A

00:06:45.900 - 00:06:46.620

Yeah, right.

Speaker B

00:06:48.140 - 00:06:50.380

Where would you like people to find you?

Speaker A

00:06:51.100 - 00:07:26.970

I'm easy to find on caitlincary.com. i was smart enough to get that a long time ago. So. Yeah. And it's full of my artwork and a little tiny blurb maybe about my music. I don't. It's funny.

You don't want to confuse the point. So to learn about my music, you might go to our friend Google, I guess.

Or better yet, go to one of the streaming platforms and go listen to some rather than read about the boring exploits of or what have you. If you look up my band, Trace Chicas, you're liable to get some dirty porn, so watch out.

Speaker B

00:07:27.530 - 00:07:31.290

Oh, I didn't know that. I'm very familiar with Trace Chicas, but not. Not that one.

Speaker A

00:07:32.250 - 00:07:35.450

There's. There are others, apparently, and they do naughty things.

Speaker B

00:07:35.850 - 00:07:40.730

Alrighty. Well, to each their own. One probably pays better than the other. And it's not the music.

Speaker A

00:07:40.810 - 00:07:42.570

That's right. Anyway.

Speaker B

00:07:42.650 - 00:08:01.660

Anyway, Caitlin Carey, I'm so excited that you're going to be part of what we're doing here with Dive Bar Music Club. And I'm looking forward to finding out what it is you are listening to these days.

You've always got a few little gems that you share that I'm like, oh, I should know that. Or I love that too. And I'm going to nerd out about it, but we very much appreciate you being part of it.

Speaker A

00:08:02.220 - 00:08:38.400

That's really cool. I'm excited. It's going to be great. Our music world is so fractalated, pixelated, exploded, that I always feel like I'm missing something wonderful.

So I really look forward to hearing other people's recommendations. That's going to be fantastic. And why they're passionate.

You know, I've always said, like, I don't watch sports, but if I'm with somebody that's really into the World Series, I'm going to sit next to them and, like, totally catch their vibe. You know, I'm looking forward to that part.

Speaker B

00:08:38.640 - 00:08:50.860

You know, I'm much more likely to listen to something when someone passionately loves it and maybe listen for things that I didn't give a chance to previously as well. So I'm as excited about this as everyone else. So thank you. Thank you. I sure appreciate, appreciate it.

Speaker A

00:08:50.860 - 00:08:52.140

Good to talk to you, Sloane.

Speaker B

00:08:53.500 - 00:09:10.940

That's last call at Dive Bar Music Club. If you like the hang, follow the show, leave a review, and tell your algorithm, gosh darn it, we're worth it.

Better yet, share your favorite episode with a friend who actually stayed for the whole set. See y' all next time for the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.

Dive Bar Music Club: Pull Up to the Trailer

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:22:00 -0400

Summary

Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club, where we’re all about vibing with our favorite tunes and diving into the deep cuts that make our playlists louder than a karaoke night gone right. This episode is all about celebrating the indie music scene. No pretentiousness here, just genuine passion for the sounds we love. Our rotating crew of music aficionados pulls up a barstool to share what’s currently spinning in their heads and hearts, from overlooked gems to the fresh bands that are about to blow up. We're cutting through the usual industry chatter and gatekeeping, so you can enjoy real talk about the tracks that resonate with us, whether they’re from that cozy basement show or a band on the verge of their big break. So, pour yourself a drink, get comfy, and let’s hang out, because music is always better with friends!

Show Notes

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the hangout where indie music lovers meet to swap stories, share obsessions, and discover their next favorite song.

Picture this: a round of drinks, a few deep cuts spinning in the background, and a bunch of folks geeking out over the sounds that move us, from basement shows to breakout bands.

No pretentious vibes here, just real talk about what makes great music stick.

Each month, I’m joined by a crew of passionate voices as we dive into the heart of indie music culture, exploring how sound evolves, the grassroots scenes that shape it, and the hidden gems that deserve a bigger spotlight.

Expect plenty of laughs, a few wild stories, and a lot of “Wait, you’ve GOT to hear this track!” moments.

So grab a drink, pull up a stool, and join the conversation.

Because at Dive Bar Music Club, everyone’s got a song worth sharing.

Links

divebarmusicclub.com
Meet the Regulars

Dive Bar Music Club is the ultimate hangout for music lovers: easygoing vibes, great conversation, and seriously good tunes.

Our rotating crew digs into indie music gems that deserve more love, so you’re always ahead of the curve.
No gatekeeping here, just real talk about the songs that hit us right in the feels.
New episodes drop every month, so grab a drink and keep that playlist close.
Hit subscribe to stay in the loop and join us on every new musical adventure.
Want to learn more? Visit divebarmusicclub.com to connect with our music-loving community and share the soundtrack of good company.

, indie music podcast, music recommendations, music playlists, new music finds, deep cuts, music discussions, music experts, indie bands, music nerds, basement shows, favorite songs, music community, podcast episodes, music industry insights, music culture, new artist spotlight, music lovers, indie music trends, music discovery, Dive Bar Music Club

Transcript

Speaker A

00:00:01.600 - 00:00:49.300

Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds.

Every month, a rotating crew of indie music experts pull up a barstool to talk about what's spinning in their playlists right now the deep cuts, the new finds and bands you should have known but missed.

No gatekeeping, no industry flexing, just real conversations about the songs that move us from tiny basement shows to your next favorite band's debut record. New episodes drop monthly, so grab a drink, plug in, and hang with us at the Dive Bar Music Club hit.

Subscribe in your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode. And check out more at divebarmusicclub.com where music always sounds better with friends.

Dive Bar Music Club: Low-Key, High Taste Happy Hour for Music Nerds (Teaser)

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 03:33:00 -0400

Hey, welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club.

We’re all about good tunes, better stories, and maybe a cheap drink or coffee while we’re at it.

Each month, we’ll dive headfirst into the indie music world with a crew that knows their stuff: a venue owner, a touring songwriter, a zine editor, or a radio host who’s seen (and heard) it all. We’re swapping stories about the hidden gems buried at the bottom of festival flyers, the bands we still blast from our college days, and those unforgettable nights when the only person in the crowd was the bartender. Shoutout to them, seriously.

Whether you’re a die-hard music head or just here for the vibes, pull up a chair. Let’s talk about what’s surprising us, what’s still hitting hard, and why music always finds a way to keep things interesting.

Low-key. High taste. Happy hour for music nerds. Let’s get into it.

Doors open January 2026.

Show Notes

Let your hair down after a long month, and join one heck of a rotating crew:

A venue owner who’s seen it all from behind the bar to backstage
A touring songwriter with stories that could fill a novel (or three)
A zine editor who’s deep in the queer country scene
A radio host who always seems to know the next big thing before anyone else
A songwriter and musician who found her groove making textile art
And a rotating crew of friends and colleagues

No script here. Just a bunch of passionate music nerds riffing on what we are listening to right now.

Here’s what we’re getting into:

What’s been catching our ears lately: new finds, unexpected earworms (better than brain worms), and bands that blew our minds in the most random venues
That magical moment when a song just clicks and becomes a forever favorite
Our wildest concert memories (yes, including the ones where the bartender was the only one clapping)
Random places we’ve been caught dancing or singing like no one’s watching
Plenty of laughs, low-key wisdom, and a healthy dose of “you had to be there” stories

And we get a little real, too:

How music marks time in our lives, those tracks that instantly transport you back
The ways music helps us through it all: breakups, breakthroughs, road trips, and rainy Tuesdays
Why the indie scene still matters, and why we’re not giving up on it anytime soon

So grab a drink, slide into your comfiest chair, and hang with us.

This is where stories get swapped, deep cuts get shared, and the volume’s always just a little too loud. Just how we like it.

Related Rabbit Holes

More fun podcasts from the creator: the Gen X sleep podcast, Sleep with Rock Stars, and Country Fried Rock, where the archives from 2009-2020 are slowly available again.

Takeaways

The Dive Bar Music Club is a cozy gathering spot for music enthusiasts to share insights.
Each week features a diverse panel from the independent music scene, enriching our conversations.
We delve into unexpected musical gems, from hidden festival treasures to timeless playlist favorites.
Our discussions highlight the intimate experiences of live shows, even when it’s just us and the bartender.
Tune in for a relaxed vibe where music lovers swap stories over drinks, celebrating the art form.
This podcast is a sanctuary for music nerds, bridging the gap between casual listeners and deep aficionados.

Recommended If You Like

independent music, music podcast, music recommendations, new music discovery, music industry insights, touring songwriters, music venues, zine culture, radio hosts, underground bands, music festivals, live music experiences, music conversations, playlist favorites, music nerds, band interviews, music trends, album reviews, music community, music culture, teaser

Transcript

Sloane Spencer

00:00:00.880 - 00:00:51.890

Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club Low Key, High Taste Happy Hour for Music Nerds. Each week, a roundtable from every corner of the independent music world grabs a seat.

A venue owner, a touring songwriter, a zine editor, a radio host who knows. And they do what music people do best. Talk about what's spinning, what's surprising, and what still gets them to turn it up.

From finding the best new band at the bottom of a music festival lineup to the records that are still on your playlist, to the bands they saw when the only other person there was the bartender. This is where those conversations live.

So pull up a stool, slide in the booth, grab a drink, and tune in to Dive Bar Music Club Low Key High Taste Happy Hour for Music Nerds.