Bardown Breakdown

Mikey and Justin are joined by Dana Fuggen Bollen (the host of Two Week Notice Podcast, Live Free or D.I.Y. Podcast, TM/Merch for Piebald) to discuss their experiences in the music industry, focusing on the evolution of podcasting, the importance of festivals, and the challenges of merch sales. They explore the impact of digital payments on the merch game, the significance of tips for merch sellers, and the dynamics of the DIY musi...

In this episode, Kevin Lyman, the founder of Warped Tour, discusses the festival's return after a five-year hiatus, emphasizing the importance of community, culture, and the evolution of music genres. He shares insights on the logistical challenges of organizing the tour, the impact of streaming and social media, and the significance of supporting local bands. Lyman reflects on the nostalgia surrounding Warped Tour while also l...

In this conversation, Mikey speaks with Jacob and Faye from the Charlotte-based emo band blankstate. They discuss the band's origins, their experiences in the Charlotte music scene, the challenges of finding all-ages venues, and their influences in emo music. The conversation also touches on the supportive nature of the emo community, the dynamics of the Charlotte music scene, and their upcoming shows, including an exciting tou...

In this episode, Justin holds down the fort and talks with Nick from Family Dinner about the band's origins, their experiences touring with notable acts like Block Party, and the influence of the Long Island music scene. They discuss the songwriting process, recording with legends like Brett Romnes and Vinnie Caruana, and the personal connections behind their music. The conversation also touches on their upcoming shows and the ...

In this episode, Mikey and Justin chat with Braden Willis from Elder Bright about the vibrant music scene in Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, the formation of their band, and the release of their debut EP. They discuss the evolution of local music scenes, the importance of physical media, and the influences that shape their sound. Braden shares insights into the creative process behind their music and the excitement surrounding their r...

In this engaging conversation, Mikey and Justin chat with Jason Maffucci from Just Surrender about the intersection of teaching and music, the nostalgia of the emo scene, and the band's recent comeback. They discuss the challenges of balancing family life with a passion for music, the evolution of music distribution, and the importance of community support in the music industry. Jason shares insights into the band's journey, their ...

In this engaging conversation, Julio Tavarez, bassist for Bob Moses and former member of As Tall As Lions, shares his musical journey, detailing how he connected with Bob Moses through a friendship with drummer Joe Zizzo. He reflects on the challenges of leaving his previous band, the excitement of playing major festivals, and the collaborative process behind his current project, Work. Julio also discusses the unique sound of As Ta...

In this engaging conversation, Ricky and Ben of Saving Face discuss their journey as a melodic hardcore band, the influences behind their latest EP 'The View From Up Here', and the challenges of touring in Australia. They share insights into their songwriting process, vocal techniques, and the importance of authenticity in their music. The band reflects on their growing audience and the significance of regional music scenes...

In this engaging conversation, Mario Cannamela from the emo band Bottom Bracket shares his journey from gaming excitement with the PS5 to the origins of his band in Springfield, Illinois. He discusses the emotional impact of emo music, the evolution of the genre, and the importance of community in the DIY music scene. Mario reflects on his move to Chicago, the fears and courage that come with change, and the significance of house s...

In this engaging conversation, the boys chat with Alec from Palette Knife and discuss a variety of topics ranging from their recent culinary experiences to the intricacies of music production and the evolution of the emo genre. They delve into the challenges of touring, the importance of physical media in music, and the creative process behind their upcoming album. The discussion highlights the vibrant DIY music scene and the camar...

In this engaging conversation, Tommy V and Mikey chat with Daniel Palmentera about his music journey, upcoming gigs, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. They discuss the importance of social media, particularly TikTok, in promoting music, the challenges of balancing quality music with online presence, and the transition from solo projects to full band dynamics. Daniel shares insights into his songwriting process, the ...

In this engaging conversation, the boys and Michael Michelini from Jam Poetry discuss their recent performances and the challenges of balancing music with personal commitments. They explore the unique aspects of live shows, particularly in Philadelphia, and delve into the importance of content creation in today's music industry. The discussion also touches on the evolution of music recognition in the age of social media, reflec...

In this conversation, members of the band Harm discuss their experiences in the Charlotte music scene, the evolution of their band, and their musical influences. They reflect on the local music culture, the significance of venues like The Milestone, and their personal journeys in music, including their early experiences with Christian music and the dynamics of the music scene in North Carolina. In this conversation, the band member...

In this engaging conversation, Mikey, Justin, and Nick Dodson of The Junior Varsity discuss the band's reunion and the creative freedom that comes with making music for fun rather than profit. They reflect on the challenges of touring, the importance of community in the DIY music scene, and their experiences navigating the music industry. The discussion also touches on the nostalgia surrounding emo music and the evolution of mu...

In this engaging conversation, Chris Poulsen of Tokyo Rose shares insights into the band's reunion shows, their experiences in the vibrant New Jersey and Long Island music scenes, and the memorable tours with Taking Back Sunday and Warped Tour. Chris reflects on the challenges and joys of performing again, the impact of their music on fans, and the intentionality behind their recordings. He also discusses the current efforts to...

In this engaging conversation, Mikey, Justin, and Aaron Smith from FRND CRCL discuss the band's upcoming album 'Jrsy Frsh', the return of their original bassist Adam, and the dynamics of their music. They explore the challenges of creating music videos in the age of short-form content, share experiences from their recent tour, and reflect on the recording process with their long-time collaborator Tyler Sky. The discussi...