Where The Living Room Used To Be

On this episode I got to chat with Sarah Greenwell from Gymshorts and Greeensleeves. In our conversation we cover much of her career going all the way back to the atypical piano lessons she had growing up, to her process booking Gymshorts' tours for so many years, plus we discuss the status and thought behind the 2nd Greeensleeves album that is nearly finished. Of course we also talked about how the new split she's doing with both these projects came about. "Love You Funny" officially comes out on February 17th with tapes available via Self Luv Records and 7"s from Freeman Street Records. Interlude song order: "All Nighter" by Gymshorts (from their album, Knock Knock) "Not Ordinary" by Greeensleeves (from their album, Attractive Nuisance) "Love You Funny" by Gymshorts (from their split 7"/CS with Greeensleeves) // Interview recorded January 30th, 2023 via Zoom // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now

Rapper and producer, ToadStool, has been steadily building his catalog of music over these last few years and he continues to grab attention with his unique take on hip hop. In this episode we talk about how vintage horror films helped to inspire his last few projects, the pace at which he creates his music, and some of the personal stories he gets into on Labthrashr, which comes out on January 27th. I'm also excited about this because Where The Living Room Used To Be will be releasing this album on limited edition cassette and lathe cut 5" vinyl that includes an exclusive b-side track and full album download. Visit livingroomutb.com to learn more about these releases and please pick up a copy! Interlude song order: "Sajak" from ToadStool's upcoming album Labthrashr "Please Welcome" from ToadStool's upcoming album Labthrashr "Creatore" from ToadStool's upcoming album Labthrashr // Interview recorded January 6th, 2023 via Zoom // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episod

Music journalist, Rob Duguay, joins me for a conversation about some of our favorite Rhode Island music that was released in 2022. Plus, we talk about a handful of the memorable shows we caught in the state this year and share a quick preview of some things we each have planned in the near future. Thanks to everyone that made such wonderful music in 2022!! Trust us, we could have kept going on and on. Interlude song order: "A Serious Light" by Bill Bartholomew (from Beij)  "mmm" by Minibeast (from On Ice) "R U OK" by Local Age (released as a single) "Too Bright Window" by Ted Leo (from For Coit and Killie EP) "Failure" by Tragwag (from How Nothing Works)  ToadStool live at Hill House "Nothing For It feat. Shawn Jackson" by Chachi Carvalho & Vertygo (from Legacy) // Interview recorded December 19th, 2022 via Zoom // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this episode, I talk with Ben Shaw about his new album + novella, Madeline. In our conversation, we discuss how the concept for this project came about where we really get into the album's evolution in the studio, the message he's working to convey with the story, and the important role of women in his life. Madeline comes out on December 9th and will be celebrated with a release party that evening at Machines With Magnets. Chrissy Stewart will be opening and tickets & more information are available now at benjaminshawmusic.com Interlude song order: "Hurricane" by Ben Shaw from his album, Madeline "Madeline" by Ben Shaw from his album, Madeline "A Better Game" by Ben Shaw from his album, Madeline "The Trials" by Ben Shaw from his album, Madeline // Interview recorded November 28th, 2022 at Ben's home // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this episode I got to speak with world-renowned saxophonist, Scott Hamilton! In our conversation we talk about his musical roots here in Rhode Island, plus his experience playing with some big acts through the years. We also touch upon a handful of the nearly 200 albums he's been apart of across his 50+ year career including his own approach to recording. Scott will be performing alongside his longtime friend and fellow legend, Duke Robillard on November 18th & 19th at Chan's in Woonsocket. And in November 20th Scott Hamilton is being inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame! This truly is one of my favorite interviews because of the history it covers and insight Scott provided... and I hope you all enjoy it Interlude song order: "Same Thing" by Bottomland Blues Band "Fruit Boots" by Hamilton-Bates Blue Flames "Still In Love With You" by Roomful of Blues Scott Hamilton Quartet  Live in Barcelona "Long Ago And Far Away" performed by Dave McKenna, Scott Hamilton, and Jake Hanna  "Blue Harlem"

I was happy to finally connect with John Boles to talk about his impressive post-rock project, Align in Time! In our conversation, we discuss how he creates these elaborate instrumentals by himself, why that usually means long gaps between albums, doing some recording at Strangeways in PVD back in the day, and what people can expect from Align in Time's first show in 10 years. Plus, he teases a little more about some fun stuff he's got planned for the future! Make sure to catch Align in Time with Secret Gardens, Circus Trees, and Strip Mall at Fete on Saturday, November 12, 2022!!! Interlude song order: "Men Without Chests" from Align in Time's album, Me & My Arrow "This Is Later" from Align in Time's album, On a Spiral " I Go Too (Acoustic)" from Align in Time's acoustic EP // Interview recorded November 7th, 2022 via Instagram Live // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

I have another special guest for you on this episode! Jonah Matranga from bands such as Onelinedrawing, Far, New End Original, and Gratitude, joins me for a conversation about balancing art & life as a professional musician, what matters most to him about his songwriting, and how his latest album, Tenderwild, came together. Jonah will be heading out on tour with other Iodine Recordings artists Her Head's On Fire and Joe McMahon from Smoke or Fire very soon. They have dates taking them down the east coast from Boston to Gainesville for The Fest with a stop here in Providence on Saturday, October 22nd at AS220! Enjoy the episode, and Please check out Jonah's new album as well his entire body of work at jonahmatranga.com and pick up some cool vinyl over at iodinerecords.com Interlude song order: "Got My List" by Onelinedrawing from their album Sketchy EP #2 "What I've Wanted To Say" by Far from their album, Tin Cans With Strings To You "14 - 41" by New End Original from their album, Thriller "Everyday Angels

I have a very special guest for you on this episode! Joseph Grillo from bands such as Garrison, Instruction, Gay For Johnny Depp, I Hate Our Freedom, Judas Knife and now, most recently, Her Head's On Fire joins me for a conversation about his path in music, the perspective he tends to write from with regard to his lyrics, and why all his bands seem to be groups indie emo rock all-stars.   Her Head’s On Fire have a new album out now on Iodine Recordings called College Rock And Clove Cigarettes... so we spend a good amount of time delving deeper into the start of this band, their surprising practice and recording schedule, and their upcoming tour with Onelinedrawing and Joe McMahon from Smoke Or Fire.   This tour is taking them down the East Coast on their way to The Fest in Gainesville with a stop here in Rhode Island at AS220 on Saturday, October 22nd. Please mark your calendars as this is a show you will not want to miss!!! Interlude song order: "Serious Heavy Drama" by Garrison (from their EP The Bend Befor

Beth Barron shares some of her favorite things in Rhode Island! From her top pizza place, to where she likes to spend her time in the state, and even the brewer she used to work with back in college!! At the end of this mini-episode, I've included her song "Kiss My Check" that you can also find on a benefit comp I worked to put together for Galactic Theatre called "Surviving The Friggin' Apocalypse". Enjoy!!   // Interview recorded August 20th, 2022 on Cutler Street in Warren, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

Beth Barron shares her thoughts on music advice and what inspires her as an artist. The end of this mini-episode includes her cover of Bob Dylan's "Don't Think Twice, It's Alright" which was recorded live at Burnside Park during the 2022 PVD Fest (audio credit: M-Tron) // Interview recorded August 20th, 2022 outside Warren Folks Festival on Cutler Street in Warren, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this episode singer-songwriter, Beth Barron, and I connected outside of the Warren Folks Festival for a quick chat to talk about her path in music, how she's overcome some artistic hurdles, and we give you a little preview of what you can expect at The 8th Annual Rhode Island Folk Festival that she is a part of planning. The festival takes place at Rose Larisa Park in East Providence on Sunday, August 28th and we look forward to seeing you there! At the end of the episode, I've included Beth's song "I'm Alive" available now wherever you stream music // Interview recorded August 20th, 2022 on Cutler Street in Warren, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this special edition episode, I caught up with Jesse The Tree to talk about his new album "Pigeon Man" which is coming out Friday, August 19th on Strange Famous Records. In our conversation, we cover what it was like for him to collaborate with Mopes on this project, the inspiration behind some of the songs you'll hear, what was different about the process of recording Pigeon Man, and some of the featured artists he has on the album. Speaking of that, listen to the end because Strange Famous was kind enough to let me premiere a brand new track by Jesse The Tree entitled "Bigger Badder Wolf" that features Sage Francis! // Interview recorded August 8th, 2022 at Central Falls Landing in Central Falls, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

For this mini-episode Chance Haki takes a deep dive into African vinyl and the influence of African music on the world. Plus, Chance shares some of his favorite places to host events and his love of a particular pizza shop (not just because of the food). Unfortunately, I couldn't get him to tell me his secret beach spot but we do reminisce on the brilliance of Benny's.  At the end of the episode, you'll hear "I'll See You in My Dreams" from frequent Providence World Music performers Birt & Harley. // Interview recorded June 20th, 2022 at James' house in Providence, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this episode, Chance Haki shares examples from his family that inspires him to persevere. Plus, you'll hear his perspective on how an organization can grow and the steps he's taking to further build Providence World Music. At the end, you'll Steven Sogo play a song on the ikembe during his performance at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston on May 28th, 2022 // Interview recorded June 20th, 2022 at James' house in Providence, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///  

For this episode, I caught up with Chance Haki, the director of Providence World Music. Since starting this project a few years back Chance has done a tremendous amount of work to highlight and promote traditional and indigenous music. In our conversation, we learn more about their mission and what they want to achieve, plus the numerous shows and styles of music they promote around Rhode Island. Please visit pvdworldmusic.com to get active and support this organization. Interlude song order: Yacouba Diabate plays the kora at Farm Fresh, April 2022 Steven Sogo plays the inanga at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, May 2022 Mambo Pa Ti at Providence Salsa Bachata Festival, November 2019 Steven Sogo plays the umuduri at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, May 2022 // Interview recorded June 20th, 2022 at James' house in Providence, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

Drummer, vocalist, and art space owner Matt O'Brien, shares his favorite and his not-favorite things about Rhode Island. At the end of the episode, I've included one of my favorite songs from passionplay's self-titled debut. The song is "My Odyssey" and I hope you enjoy it!   // Interview recorded July 4th, 2022 at Focal in Pawtucket, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this mini-episode, Matt O'Brien passes along some tips on his drum technique. He also discusses how his endorsement with SJC Custom Drums came about and shares his experience with regard to the therapeutic value of playing music. And, as you'll hear Matt talk about in this episode... he likes to pull from various styles of music with the songs he writes. From listening to his catalog, I think a song that showcases this well is passionplay's song "Dreamless". I've included this track for you at the end. If you dig it, please support them by picking up their latest EP "Sinking" on Bandcamp. Enjoy! // Interview recorded July 4th, 2022 at Focal in Pawtucket, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this episode, I sat down with musician and co-founder of Focal, Matt O'Brien. I had a lot of fun talking with him and we covered a lot during our conversation including the interesting way he got his first drumset, the numerous bands he's played in, and what went into starting the art gallery Focal as well as what they are looking to achieve with this space. Plus, one of Matt's bands, passionplay, recently put out a phenomenal new release entitled "sinking." We discuss the recording process of this album, working with Roach Ranch Recordings, and the evolution of the band's sound. Interlude song order: "Blinders" by Just Flesh (from Demo 2020) "Haunting This Empty Page" by passionplay (from self-titled) "Who's Protected When You Serve" by Cerebral Prolapse (from Blossom)  "Poison" by passionplay (from Sinking) "Numb" by passionplay (from Sinking) "Parasite" by passionplay (from Sinking) // Interview recorded July 4th, 2022 at Focal in Pawtucket, RI // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // ///

Venue director and musician, Russ Gusetti, shares some of his favorite things in Rhode Island, how he started playing concertina, and then takes us back through a bit of the history of Providence's Irish Session over the decades! At the end of the episode, you'll hear the lead track from Pendragon's Live At Blackstone River Theatre album "Brogan's / The Silver Spear".  // Interview recorded May 31st, 2022 at Blackstone River Theatre // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a rating or review wherever you're listening right now! ///

On this mini-episode, Russell Gusetti provides some of the most practical advice a musician can do to get attention, as well as what not to do... and a lot of the reasons why he continues to do what does with regard to shows. Don't forget to head over to Diamond Hill Park in Cumberland, Rhode Island for the 10th Annual Summer Solstice Festival this Saturday, June 18th! More info is available at riverfolk.org As you heard in the previously-released full episode, Russ talked about how Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame inductee, Ken Lyon, played with Pendragon for a period of time. One of the most popular songs they performed together was a rendition of Doc Watson's song "Handsome Molly" featuring Ken on bass and vocals. The song is from Pendragon's 2005 album Artistic License and I've included it for you at the end of the episode. I hope you enjoy it! // Interview recorded May 31st, 2022 at Blackstone River Theatre // Intro music by Cedros // Hosted by James Toomey // /// If you enjoy the episode please leave a