Part 2 of our epic sit-down with Duran Decade — Wisconsin’s ultimate Duran Duran tribute — picks up right in the AI music debate and goes full throttle!Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes continue the conversation with Danny Miller (guitar/vocals), Mark Uselman (lead vocals/keys), and Brian Wirt (drums/vocals) covering:🔥 EDM vs real bands: Laptop DJs, crowd vibe, and why kids boop for an hour🎸 Future of live music: Summerfest changes, streaming gigs, and vinyl revival💰 Pro booking & marketing tips every band needs in 2026🤘 Show production secrets + quick-fire first concerts & favorite 80s foodKey Moments:0:00 Picking up the AI debate0:36 EDM concerts, laptops & crowd energy4:54 Future of live shows & younger generations6:59 Summerfest changes + disappearing headliners8:15 Vinyl comeback & kids rediscovering albums10:35 Album listening vs single tracks18:14 Production details, video sync & no stopping27:39 Venue talk: Vixen, Bend Theater & crowd flow34:45 Supertramp tribute crossover & stage props40:26 Quick questions: First concerts & favorite 80s food44:36 Wrap-up & thanksWatch Part 1 here: • Duran Decade 🎤 Duran Duran Tribute & 80s N... 🔗 Connect with Duran Decade: / decadebandmke https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran... / @durandecade Danny Miller: / danny.miller.840953 Songsmith Records: / songsmithrecords Supertramp Tribute: / thesupertramptribute Upcoming Shows:Jan 30, 2026 – The Grand, Oshkosh WIApr 11, 2026 – Rally Point, Oconomowoc WIJun 12, 2026 – The Bend Theater, West Bend WIJul 18, 2026 – Brown County Playhouse, Nashville INMeet the Band: https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org708-287-3692#hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DuranDecade #DuranDuranTribute #80sMusic #EDMvsLive #BandBooking #AIMusic #BongoMike #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #MilwaukeeMusic #WisconsinBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Duran Decade — Wisconsin’s premier Duran Duran tribute delivering authentic 80s sound, era-accurate gear/clothes, and full synced iconic videos.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes sit down with Danny Miller (guitar/vocals), Mark Uselman (lead vocals/keys), and Brian Wirt (drums/vocals) to talk:🎸 How Duran Decade came together and their obsession with authenticity🌍 Overseas concert deals + Pete’s Radiohead trip to Berlin🎹 Early synth pioneers, recreating classic sounds, and the AI vs. synth debate🕺 Why 80s music still rules — MTV visuals, nostalgia power, and Gen Z fansPart 1 ends on the AI cliffhanger — Part 2 coming soon with live music future and pro booking advice!🔗 Connect with Duran Decade: / decadebandmke https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran... / @durandecade Danny Miller: / danny.miller.840953 Songsmith Records: / songsmithrecords Supertramp Tribute: / thesupertramptribute Upcoming Shows:Jan 30, 2026 – The Grand, Oshkosh WIApr 11, 2026 – Rally Point, Oconomowoc WIJun 12, 2026 – The Bend Theater, West Bend WIJul 18, 2026 – Brown County Playhouse, Nashville INMeet the Band: https://dmiller5889.wixsite.com/duran...🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org708-287-3692Key Moments:0:00 Sizzle Reel – Duran Decade Tribute to Duran Duran • DURAN DECADE - TRIBUTE TO DURAN DURAN 3:18 Pete’s Radiohead Berlin trip + “There There” live clip12:32 Danny Miller joins + band introductions14:10 Duran Decade origin & full authenticity breakdown15:19 Setlist, 2-hour show, and synced video magic18:14 Why Duran Duran + surprising crowd demographics19:13 Tribute market gap & Supertramp connection21:54 Early 80s tech, synth pioneers & sound recreation27:39 Why 80s music never dies + MTV’s massive impact35:19 AI vs. synths hypocrisy debate kicks off
#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DuranDecade #DuranDuranTribute #80sMusic #NewWave #SynthPop #AIMusic #BongoMike #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #MilwaukeeMusic #WisconsinBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we’re joined by Becky Raisman — a talented singer-songwriter originally from the Chicagoland area (Highland Park), now based in Charleston, SC, with her brand-new fifth EP Earth Goddesses featuring pop-rock tracks inspired by life, love, and artists like Chappell Roan.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes dive into:🎤 Becky’s musical journey from Chicago choirs and Columbia College to releasing originals online🎶 The inspirations behind Earth Goddesses tracks like “Shining Through My Window,” “Live It Up, Live It Loud,” and “Moonlight Goddesses”🏫 Adult band life at School of Rock (from Libertyville to Mount Pleasant), jamming with the late Kevin Clark, and prepping 90s alternative sets🔥 Influences: Taylor Swift, Def Leppard, Journey, Chappell Roan, and dreams of opening for big acts🎄 Plus: Memories of Chicago scenes, tributes to Kevin Clark, upcoming Pride Fest EP, and more holiday vibes.0:00 Becky Raisman "Shining Through My Window" (opening song)2:53 Weekend recap: Jack Tripper band at Broken Oar, Packers beat Bears3:48 Upcoming gigs: Mosquitoes Jan 10 at Broken Oar, Black Diamond Sessions Feb 14 at Madcatz & Feb 27 at Side Outs4:17 Wooden Nickel Dec 18 discussion & calendar mix-up5:00 Drum shop Christmas party shoutout5:46 Drum buying addiction & Sweetwater messages6:30 Sleigh bells purchase for Christmas show7:10 Bruce Springsteen "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" chat7:53 Rock and Roll Christmas show recap at Lyric Theater (Blue Island)9:52 George Harrison "My Sweet Lord" performance clip11:30 Previous episodes mention & upcoming schedule12:10 Basement gear talk & sleigh bells demo13:38 Becky Raisman joins the show – Welcome14:23 Becky's background: Highland Park roots, Columbia College, choir & voice lessons15:11 Earth Goddesses EP intro15:28 Track inspirations: Moonlight Goddesses (Nedra Johnston), Live It Up Live It Loud (songwriting class), Shining Through My Window (Degrassi)16:01 Life in Charleston since 2018 & finding Hogpod online16:39 School of Rock adult band: Libertyville to Mount Pleasant16:47 Tribute to Kevin Clark: School of Rock movie drummer, instructor, jams, benefit concert18:02 School of Rock documentary mention & grand opening19:19 Favorite genres & current 90s alternative season19:54 Influences: Cranewides, Def Leppard, Journey, Foreigner, The Beatles20:22 Chappell Roan love & upcoming Pride Fest EP inspired by "Hot To Go"20:46 Taylor Swift admiration21:12 30 Seconds to Mars & Matt Wachter (actually Walker) as instructor22:29 School of Rock big shows (Arlington Heights opening Weezer)23:15 More Kevin Clark & Peter Nicholson memories23:57 Thoughts on Hogpod interviews (Peter Nicholson, Mack McCrae)25:21 Earth Goddesses details: Released Nov 18, good reviews, pop-rock variety26:08 Production: T-Brizz (BeatStars), Craig Durrance (Studio Pro, real musicians)28:27 Artwork by Justin in Waukegan29:22 "Live It Up, Live It Loud" discussion (Len vibe)29:58 Rapid-fire: First concert Peter, Paul and Mary at Ravinia30:51 Favorite Christmas movie: Home Alone 1 & 2 (North Shore)31:52 Pop-Tarts love: Oreo flavor, toasted preferred32:32 Merchandise website, t-shirts/hoodies with Earth Goddesses design33:29 Closing thanks, happy holidays, cat eating pizza shoutout🔗 Connect with Becky Raisman: / becky.raisman1 / beckyraisman https://open.spotify.com/artist/49P4O... / becky-raisman https://www.reverbnation.com/becky97 / sing19821 🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #BeckyRaisman #EarthGoddesses #SchoolOfRock #SingerSongwriter #ChappellRoan #TaylorSwift #KevinClark #PopRock
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Lisa Orduna — powerhouse female lead vocalist for Members Only, Chicagoland's ultimate 80s cover band delivering 100% live, no-backing-tracks performances of rock, pop, new wave, hair metal, and iconic duets.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes dive into:🎸 The story of Members Only — 9 years strong, adding female vocals to expand the 80s song catalog🎤 Why the 80s music never gets old and tailoring setlists for every crowd🔥 Nostalgia for Members Only jackets, parachute pants, and singing Roxette lyrics🌆 Upcoming gigs, networking in the Chicago scene, and shoutouts to Garbage tribute Stupid Girl🎶 Lisa’s husband reviving Big Time: The Music of Peter Gabriel (solo + Genesis prog classics)Plus: Surviving storm shows at Lyric Theater, Concert for George highlights, Parkinson’s benefit mentions, and classic Hogpod chaos.🔗 Connect with Members Only:https://www.membersonly80sband.com/ / membersonly80sband / @membersonly80sband55 🔗 Big Time - The Music of Peter Gabriel: / bigtimegabriel 🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org708-287-3692Key Moments:0:00 Opening video: Members Only performing Roxette "She's Got the Look" • Cover of The Look- Roxette by Members Only... 3:13 Concert for George "My Sweet Lord" clip from Lyric Theater10:48 Lisa Orduna joins the show15:18 Members Only at Broken Oar Dec 20 / 2007580696479112 23:50 Why sing the 80s?41:00 Members Only upcoming shows: Dec 20 Broken Oar, Jan 24 Private, Feb 14 115 Bourbon St., Feb 27 Jonny Cab's49:40 Stupid Girl Garbage tribute shoutout • Stupid Girl 🎸 Tribute to Garbage & Chicago... 51:50 Bongo Mike's Important Questions segment1:02:00 Members Only jackets & 80s fashion nostalgia1:08:30 Big Time Peter Gabriel tribute band revival1:12:00 Parkinson’s benefit event mention / 19vchuy6is #hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MembersOnly80s #LisaOrduna #80sCoverBand #Roxette #PeterGabriel #BigTimeBand #BongoMike #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #80sNostalgia
Part 2 with Dr. Daniel Ivankovich (Chicago Slim) goes full throttle 🔥🎸The 6’11” orthopedic surgeon who co-founded the Chicago Blues All-Stars, created The Bone Squad, and still shreds lead guitar at Buddy Guy’s Legends when he’s not fixing spines.Hosts Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, and Mike Dermont dig deeper into the mission: using blues gigs to fund life-changing surgeries for the uninsured through OnePatient Global Health Initiative, keeping real Chicago blues alive, and the wild stories that only a blues-playing surgeon can tell.Key Moments (Part 2):0:00 – “Blues is a feeling, not a note” 🔥1:04 – How Chicago Slim became the 6’11” lead guitarist2:05 – Surgeon by day, blues warrior by night10:22 – Founding The Bone Squad – blues pays for surgeries22:40 – The OnePatient mission in action35:15 – Keeping authentic Chicago blues alive in 202550:08 – Lynn Jordan & the Shivers shout-out51:10 – Wrap-up & love for the Hogpod crewConnect with Dr. Daniel Ivankovich / Chicago Blues All-Stars: / chicagobluesallstars https://chicagobluesallstars.comhttps://onepatient.org / danielivankovich https://chicagoslim.com🎧 Loving the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon! / hogpod Want on the show? Hit up Beth Miller:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DanielIvankovich #ChicagoBluesAllStars #TheBoneSquad #OnePatient #ChicagoSlim #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller
🔥🎸 THIS WEEK ON HOGPOD WE GOT A LEGEND 🔥🎸Dr. Daniel Ivankovich (Part 1) — orthopedic surgeon by day, Chicago Slim & co-founder of Chicago Blues All-Stars by life, the man who uses blues to fund life-saving surgeries through The Bone Squad 🤯🎸Hosts Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, and Mike Dermont dive into Daniel’s insane journey: fleeing Yugoslavia at age 5, becoming a top surgeon, and the night he missed the Rolling Stones jamming with Muddy Waters at Checkerboard Lounge because Killer Ray Allison called him and he thought Ray was bullshitting (he wasn’t 😭😂).Key Moments (Part 1):0:00 – Chicago Slim “Walking The Dog” cold open 🎷🔥9:07 – Erika Miner episode shout-out 🎤18:45 – Aurora Incident 😳29:47 – Mike Ostrenga update 🎸30:06 – Blue Bayou show with Tamara Woodruff 🎶33:33 – Turkey Ball update 🦃39:07 – Bongo Mike George Harrison tribute 🎸44:08 – Dr. Daniel Ivankovich joins 🤯45:15 – Born in Yugoslavia, arrived Chicago at age 5 🇺🇸48:30 – Parents escaped communism for the American dream 🇺🇸52:10 – First blues exposure & falling in love with the music 🎶1:02:20 – Learning guitar from Killer Ray Allison 🎸1:04:45 – Killer Ray: “Rolling Stones at Checkerboard tonight” → thought he was bullshitting → skipped it → Chicago Tribune front page next day 😭😂Connect with Dr. Daniel Ivankovich / Chicago Blues All-Stars:https://www.facebook.com/chicagobluesallstarshttps://chicagobluesallstars.comhttps://onepatient.orghttps://www.facebook.com/danielivankovichhttps://chicagoslim.com🎧 Loving the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodWant on the show? Hit up Beth Miller:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DanielIvankovich #ChicagoBluesAllStars #TheBoneSquad #OnePatient #ChicagoSlim #RollingStones #CheckerboardLounge #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller
Welcome to The Hogpod! This week, hosts Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike, and Chris Rhodes are joined by the incredibly talented keyboardist and singer, Erika Johnston Miner, a key member of the acclaimed Guns N' Roses tribute band, Sins and Roses.Erika shares her unique journey, starting with classical piano training as a child and struggling to master the guitar as a teenager. After a long hiatus dedicated to raising her three children, she details how the COVID-19 pandemic provided an unexpected opportunity to bring music back into her life. Hear about her first terrifying (but pre-recorded!) performance of an original song, the power of networking in the vast Chicagoland music community, and how a message from bass player Mick led her to take on the monumental task of recreating Axl Rose's iconic piano parts for Sins and Roses.It’s a great conversation about overcoming self-doubt, the importance of band chemistry, and making a comeback after finding your passion again!Key Moments:11:04 - Guest Introduction: Welcome Erika Johnston Miner13:19 - Piano Beginnings and the Challenge of Learning Guitar19:22 - Returning to Music: The Impact of COVID and Motherhood22:14 - Overcoming Doubt: Performing an Original Song in a Live Stream Fundraiser24:40 - The Power of Open Mics and Networking in the Chicagoland Scene28:11 - The Call: Joining the Guns N' Roses tribute band, Sins and Roses30:45 - Breaking down the intimidation factor and finding great band chemistryhttps://songwhip.com/erika-minerYouTube → @erikaminermusic326Facebook → / erika.j.miner Sins N Roses (Guns N’ Roses tribute) → https://sinsnroses.com/home | Shows → https://sinsnroses.com/showsBooked by Beth Miller – beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692#TheHogpod #ErikaJohnstonMiner #SinsAndRoses #GunsNRosesTribute #GNRTribute #ChicagolandMusic #ChicagoMusicScene #Keyboardist #Piano #Podcast #MusicInterview #LiveMusic #PeteJansons #BongoMike #ChrisRhodes
Ivy Ford "The Blues Kitten": Buddy Guy, Fire Alarms & Last True Chicago Blues Clubs | Hogpod Chicago Local Music PodcastIvy Ford, Blues Kitten, Chicago Blues, Buddy Guy, Buddy Guy’s Legends, Rosa's Lounge, Blue Chicago, Kingston Mines, Mad Cats, HogPod, Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, Rhodesy, live music ChicagoThe Blues Kitten just walked in and blew the doors off 🤯🎸🔥Ivy Ford sits down with Pete Jansons, Bongo Mike Orfanos, and Rhodesy (drummer for hire) and drops straight fire: the cold call that put a 21-year-old kid on stage opening for Buddy Guy at Legends, the night her shower steam set off a hotel fire alarm in France (yeah, she evacuated in a towel), and the real-deal list of the last authentic Chicago blues joints still standing in 2025.From 11-year-old blues brunches in Wisconsin (mom was a bartender, laws were… different) to accidentally taking over her own band at 20 to 8–9 gigs a week while homeschooling an 8-year-old — this woman lives the life.Plus cracked axles in Iowa, trading guitar licks for car repairs, and the JB Richie tribute jam at Mad Cats that had everyone ugly-crying on stage.If you love real Chicago blues, real road stories, and real humans who bleed this music — smash play.Book Ivy right now: ivyformusic.com 🎟️00:00 Sweet Home Chicago cold open 🎸09:27 Ivy Ford walks in18:10 12 years full-time pro24:36 The Buddy Guy phone call26:26 Birth of “The Blues Kitten”30:35 3–9 shows a week grind47:01 Last true Chicago blues clubs named52:49 Emotional JB Richie tribute at Mad Cats1:03:33 France shower fire-alarm chaos 🤯🔥1:09:04 Guitar for car repairs1:11:34 First big concert: Weird Al1:15:14 Upcoming shows + booking#IvyFord #BluesKitten #ChicagoBlues #BuddyGuy #BuddyGuysLegends #RosasLounge #BlueChicago #KingstonMines #MadCats #LiveMusic #BluesGuitar #FranceTour #FullTimeMusician #HogPod #RoadStories
HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast went 100% LIVE and UNSCRIPTED with Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos (Bongo Mike), Mike Dermont, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and Beth Miller behind the glass for a Q&A TAKEOVER! We opened the lines and let YOU drive the chaos — no prep, no filter, just real-time Chicago music talk. The crew laughed through first concert memories (Chris: Billy Joel at age 6?!), debated grandkids vs gigs, swapped war stories from the scene, and shouted out listeners from Portugal to the burbs. Beth kept the train on the tracks while the guys riffed on everything from studio glitches to parade waves. Pure HogPod energy — raw, local, and all yours.Key Moments:0:09 – Live Start & Parade Wave0:20 – "100% Live Right Now, Baby!"0:27 – Beth Joins (Wrong Side of the Glass)0:47 – Champ vs Chump Debate1:04 – Upcoming Shows & Shameless Plugs1:39 – Mike D: No 2025 Shows Yet2:19 – Friction Fest Returns October 17, 20263:00 – Bongo Mike Joins from California3:22 – No Pants, No Jumping Jacks3:52 – Last-Minute Guest Cancel → Live Pivot4:49 – Influences: Tom Jones, Elvis, Kermit5:22 – Sweet "Fox on the Run" & Columbia Records5:58 – Mosquito Final Show with Jack Tripper7:25 – Hairbangers Ball & Sins and Roses8:09 – Aussie Fundraiser at LiveWire Lounge10:58 – Rock & Roll Christmas + Concert for George (Nov 28-29)11:34 – Mosquito Next Show Jan 24, 202614:16 – Luminere Christmas (No Chicago Show)16:11 – Jacko & Midnight Calls + Anthony Gnomes16:54 – Dean Z Elvis Christmas (Dec 18, Rockford)17:39 – Infinity TSO Tribute18:08 – Gravity Productions Holiday Event (Dec 4)21:37 – Arctic Bar Winter Pop-Up (Nov 21-Jan)22:37 – Turkey Ball Festival (2 Weekends, 14 Bands)25:26 – Black Wednesday at Broken Oar (Nov 26)26:32 – "Pete's Always That Guy"27:33 – Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Debate29:43 – School of Rock vs Garage Bands30:19 – Dermont School of Rock30:42 – Illinois Rock & Roll Museum34:42 – Joliet Museum Inductees41:36 – How Did You Get Your Start? (Mike D, Bongo, Chris)49:25 – Favorite Part of Podcast?53:19 – Donna Joins Live56:36 – Wrap-Up & ThanksBooked by Beth Miller – bands/clubs/owners: beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Subscribe: hogpod.org | Apple/Spotify/iHeartFollow HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast:Facebook: / hogpodmusic Instagram: / hogpogchicagomusicscenepodcast LinkedIn: / hogpodpodmusic X (Twitter): https://x.com/HogPodMusicEmail Pete: pete@hogpod.org#HogPod #LiveQA #ChicagoMusic #Unscripted
🔥 EDM Producer Matt Ventrelli (Betrel) drops 140 BPM dubstep heat on HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast – hosted by Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos (Bongo Mike), Mike Dermont, Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes, and booked by Beth Miller.From Gem & Jam 2023 breakthrough to Icon Collective shutdown, Matt breaks down UK dubstep, reggae dub swing, AI in EDM, and why Chicago crushes LA.Key Moments:0:00 Friction Reunion Heat19:05 Matt Joins28:05 EDM 10131:25 AI Deep Dive36:25 Old School DJs41:25 Magic Prompts43:12 EDM Scene Hours48:55 LA/Chicago Clash55:08 Silent Disco1:09:05 Booking MattStream Betrel: SoundCloud/Spotify @betrel.Booked by Beth Miller – contact for gigs.Subscribe: hogpod.org | Apple/Spotify/iHeartFollow HogPod Chicago Local Music Podcast:Facebook: / hogpodmusic Instagram: / hogpogchicagomusicscenepodcast LinkedIn: / hogpodpodmusic X (Twitter): https://x.com/HogPodMusicEmail Pete: pete@hogpod.org#HogPod #EDM #Dubstep #140BPM #ChicagoEDM #PeteJansons #BongoMike #BethMiller #MikeDermont #ChrisRhodes #LocalMusicPodcast #Ableton #EDMPodcast
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Jet — bassist, vocalist, and multi-band performer with LP Vinyl, LPV Escape, Super Unknown, and No More Faith. Jet shares stories from Chicago’s tribute scene, his Journey and Faith No More projects, and the recent Ozzy Osbourne charity event that brought the community together.Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes, along with booker Beth Miller, as they dive into:🎸 The Ozzy Osbourne All-Star Celebration for Lurie Children’s Hospital🎤 Building LP Vinyl & LPV Escape — Chicago’s leading Journey tributes🔥 The artistry behind tribute performance & why audiences love itPlus: favorite-band roundtable, stage-sound war stories, and why “chicks love Journey.”Key Moments0:00 Opening Jam5:33 Ozzy Charity Recap7:19 Elise McLearen Show Clip • Elise McLearen | My Metal Heart & Sabatha ... 20:20 Jet joins the show24:25 Jet Intro by cbob51:45 Why Chicks Love Journey52:30 April Love Superfan Segment1:04:48 Everyone’s Favorite Bands1:07:50 Bongo Mike SegmentConnect with Jet🌐 https://lpvinyl.net🌐 https://lpvescape.com🌐 https://theloungepuppets.com🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodBooking inquiries: Beth Miller — 📧 Beth@hogpod.org | ☎ 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #Jet #LPVinyl #LPVEscape #SuperUnknown #NoMoreFaith #JourneyTribute #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #OzzyCharity #ChicagoBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Annie Stokesberry — lead singer, drummer, and flutist for Corners of a Circle. Broadcasting from her barn studio in Woodstock, Annie shares how she blends her psychology practice, music career, and life on a 30-acre tree farm.Join hosts Pete Jansons and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes — with booking by Beth Miller — as they talk with Annie about:🎸 Building a barn studio and running a working tree farm🎤 Balancing her therapy practice with the Chicago jam-band scene🔥 Music, ADHD, PTSD, and mental-health healing through rhythm🥁 Learning drums and helping kids start in music🔗 Connect with Annie and Corners of a Circle:https://coacband.com/🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments0:00 Opening video Corners of a Circle Sizzle Reel3:28 Annie Barn Tour WOW!5:28 Annie has a psychology practice and a tree farm!6:00 Annie Stokesberry’s band Corners of a Circle11:05 Mental Health and Music17:55 HRV Heart Rate Variability and Stress Relief20:42 How did Annie get started in drumming21:59 Why did Chris Rhodes get into drums25:23 Advice to parents on getting their kids started in music and drum kit starting kit32:55 AI and writing music36:44 Nick Sanzeri Shout Show Clip https://youtu.be/V6Rh5jc1Vic?si=raQzNyTBnyjPqvRd38:15 Chris Rhodes question time39:13 Chicago Fest and cup stacking41:55 Dr Annie Therapy https://doctorannietherapy.com/Hashtags#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #AnnieStokesberry #CornersOfACircle #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LiveMusic #WomenInRock #MentalHealth
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we crank it up with SIIN — Chicago’s powerhouse original hard-rock band!Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos and Pete Jansons with superfan April Love as they hang with PJ Alvarez (drums/vocals) and Sam Bello (guitar/vocals) from SIIN to talk about:🎸 The band’s 1990 origins and rebirth after lineup shake-ups🎤 Keeping original rock alive in a tribute-band city🔥 April Love on why SIIN’s live shows “hit you in the face”⚡ Opening for Blue Öyster Cult and Ace Frehley🎶 What’s next — studio sessions, fall shows, and Midwest festivals!Connect with SIIN:🌐 https://linktr.ee/siinrocks📧 apjpjpj@gmail.com🎟️ Upcoming shows: https://www.siinrocks.com/#!/shows🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments⏱️ 0:00 Opening video “Boom” by SIIN → • SIIN. BOOM 10/8/22 🎥 4:13 Super Fans show clip → • Beth, April, Leslie & Brian: Chicago's Sup... 🤘 9:47 Superfan April Love joins the show🎤 10:59 April Love introduces SIIN (PJ Alvarez & Sam Bello)🎶 18:55 Shifts in Chicago’s rock scene💬 19:35 April Love on SIIN vs. Journey tribute bands🏙️ 22:25 City vs Suburb music culture🎧 25:30 Medusas memories — the old-school training ground💻 30:02 Backing tracks & laptop bands debate🔥 33:16 Opening for Blue Öyster Cult📅 36:00 Upcoming SIIN shows → https://www.siinrocks.com/#!/shows🎸 41:32 Bongo Mike question round (yes, Pop-Tarts included)#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #SIIN #AprilLove #PJAlvarez #SamBello #MikeOrfanos #PeteJansons #BethMiller #ChicagoRock #HardRock #BlueOysterCult #AceFrehley
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Scotty "Big Cat" Pelvis & Craig Pelvis of The Pelvis Brothers — a versatile Chicago band blending rockabilly, Elvis-inspired classics, and modern flair.Hosts Mike "Bongo" Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris "Rhodesy" Rhodes talk with the Pelvis Brothers about:🎸 The origins and rise of The Pelvis Brothers🎤 Rockabilly, Stray Cats, and Elvis influences🔥 Wedding receptions vs. live club shows🥁 Finding a new drummer and building the band's futureConnect with The Pelvis Brothers:Website: https://pelvisbrothers.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PelvisBrothersContact: Info@PelvisBrothers.com | 847-440-4529Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments0:00 Pelvis Brothers "Burning Love" Video • Burning Love 1:35 Post Coterie Hangover Recap13:56 Scott Swearingsen Pelvis Brothers14:58 Bonnie Miske Broken Oar Show Clip • HOG POD - Behind the Scenes at Broken Oar ... 15:03 Craig Pelvis joins the show15:30 Pelvis Brothers Intro21:09 Wolfgang Paul Show Clip • Wolfgang Paul (ARRA, Tom Sawyer) | Chicago... 28:25 Brass from the past shout out28:35 Jeff Anthony show clip • HOG POD Podcast: Jeff Anthony Talks Three ... 29:08 Rick Saucedo https://www.facebook.com/ricksaucedo shout out31:15 Elvis Movie36:50 Million Dollar Quartet40:14 Brian Setzer and Stray Cats47:52 1957 band shoutout https://www.facebook.com/the1957s50:31 Wedding Reception vs Live bands in Clubs52:10 Pelvis Brothers Booking Info55:47 Pelvis Brothers Looking for a drummer57:54 Bongo Mikes Questions#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #ScottyBigCatPelvis #CraigPelvis #PelvisBrothers #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #Rockabilly #StrayCats #Elvis
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome James Costanza — percussionist, bandleader, and nephew of legendary Mr. Bongo Jack Costanzo.Hosted by Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons & Chris “Rhodesy” RhodesBooking by Beth Miller (Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692)✨ Highlights of the conversation:🥁 Bongo roots & the legacy of Jack Costanzo🎶 Influences, drum circles & Chicago percussion stories🎤 Playing with Supernatural Soul, Brass from the Past & more0:00 Vehicle - The Ides Of March cover James Costanza Bongos6:54 Hearing The Call https://hearingthecall.org/give/9:30 Bongo James Costanza12:28 Jack_Costanzo https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Co...15:49 Bongo Influences21:26 Soldier Field Bucket Brigade22:45 Drum Circles33:02 James Costanza FB Page / james.costanza.3 36:25 Supernatural Soul Band https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...41:57 Mosquitos playing Highwood Pumpkinfest / 16zbwv2ask 44:40 Bongo Mike Special Questions segment46:33 Grandson stop bySupport the Hogpod on Patreon → / hogpod Book a guest via Beth Miller → Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #JamesCostanza #MrBongo #Percussion #SupernaturalSoul
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Stupid Girl — Chicago’s tribute to Garbage featuring vocalist Julie, guitarist Brooke Hernandez, and bassist/programmer Michael Laskowski.
Join hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes as they talk with Stupid Girl about:
🎸 Why Garbage’s music inspired their tribute
🎤 South Side vs. North Side Chicago music scenes
🔥 The value of open mics, rehearsal rituals & live set strategies
Plus: clips of Stupid Girl performing Garbage classics, stories of Chicago’s 90s scene, and upcoming shows!
🔗 Connect with Stupid Girl:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Brookealexis7
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@stupidgirl.chicago
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/stupidgirl.chicago
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@stupidgirlchicago
🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!
https://www.patreon.com/hogpod
Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:
Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692
0:00 Opening Stupid Girl Sizzle Reel Tribute to Garbage
1:29 Pre show foolishness
5:05 Mike Laskowski intros his band Stupid Girl
7:54 Why Garbage?
12:04 90's Chicago Music Scene
20:28 Sad Machines Show Clip
22:13 South Side Music Scene vs North Side?
28:44 Value of doing Open Mic's and tips to go about doing one
29:52 Yacht Rock Event https://www.facebook.com/events/1504225320742869 9/29/25 Vixen McHenry
32:02 Julie Preshow ritual/mantra
35:00 Lead Singer Preperation tips
37:37 Elemental Ters for Fears Julie Warm up
41:25 Stupid Girl Cover Clip by Garbage Tribute Band Stupid Girl
42:25 Empty
49:02 Doing one long set versus splitting into 2 pros and cons
58:26 Stupid girls upcoming shows: Upcoming Shows
https://www.facebook.com/events/4117418848531421
59:00 Mikes other bands Suckerpunch, Tuesday Night Music Club Perfect Circle
1:00:40 Mosquitos upcoming shows pumpkin fest highwood https://www.facebook.com/events/597967846426526
1:05:16 Bongo Mike's Segment
#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #StupidGirl #GarbageTribute #90sAlternative #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller
Key MomentsHashtags
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome David Edward Bellah — powerhouse vocalist of Fast Times Chicago and My 80’s Band, known for his soaring high notes and energy-packed performances.Host Pete Jansons talks with David about:🎸 His musical journey from stage to radio🎤 Singing the classics with Fast Times & My 80’s Band🔥 Stories of famous people he’s met through his radio show🔗 Connect with David Edward Bellah:🌐 Website: https://davebellahmusic.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.e.bellahFacebook Profile: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100036214183944#Fast Times Band: https://www.facebook.com/FastTimesTheBandMy 80’s Band: https://www.facebook.com/my80sband🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!https://www.patreon.com/hogpodAre you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692Key Moments:0:00 She Sells Sanctuary https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FV5y4b8TW/3:30 Talking Fantasy Football4:25 Chris Rhodes drum sets8:26 What’s been happening in the music scene?8:41 Miracle in Mundelein https://www.themiracleconcert.com/11:45 Let’s talk Bears12:00 Dave joins the show13:05 My 80’s Band13:46 Safety Dance clip https://www.facebook.com/my80sband/videos/82165744645076818:45 Fast Times Band clip20:45 Dave’s musical journey44:22 Famous people Dave has met on his radio show48:21 Bongo Mike Question Segment#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DavidEdwardBellah #FastTimes #My80sBand #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #LiveMusic #CoverBands #80sMusic #ChicagoBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Dave & Remy Zeiger — a father–daughter bassist duo spanning jazz chops, funk grooves, and Chicago cover/tribute stages.Host Pete Jansons is joined by booker Beth Miller to talk with Dave & Remy about:🎸 Growing through Libertyville School of Rock and jumping to real stages🎤 Bass influences (Jaco, Victor Wooten, Geddy Lee) and learning theory vs tabs🔥 New music and gigs: Mudfish EP, Crossing Decades, The Big Chair, Alice in Payne🔗 Connect with Dave & Remy:Remy Zeiger FB: / remy.zeiger Crossing Decades: / crossing.decades.chicago Mudfish: / mudfishchicago The Big Chair (Tears for Fears tribute): / bigchairchicago Alice in Payne (Alice in Chains tribute): / mudfishchicago 🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-36920:00 Crossing Decades Band Clip with Special Guests Dave and Remy Zeiger • The Early Decades 1:45 Dave and Pete reminisce about their days in Libertyville School of Rock with Pete Dankelson and Jay MartiniPete Dankelson Show clip • Thanksgiving with Peter Dankelson: Music, ... Jay Martini Show Clip • HOG POD: Chicago Music Scene with Keyboard... 2:20 Five Acre Flight / 5afmusic Lake County Sky Band with Cindy Noonan5:31 Crossing Decades clip • 90 and beyond....... 7:57 How Remy got into music15:37 Mitch the Lip show clip • Mitch The Lip on Ska, Trumpets & Chicago’s... 20:58 Remy jamming NIB • Monster Jam - NIB 28:00 Music Theory vs Tabs37:00 What bass players influenced Remy39:50 Dave on putting a band together and keeping one together43:00 Where are Dave and Remy playing next / 665073896297218 52:59 Mudfish "Lost" / 370170292525000 Remy Zeiger FB / remy.zeiger Crossing Decades YouTube / @crossingdecades-vk3qd / mudfishchicago #Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #DaveZeiger #RemyZeiger #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #SchoolOfRock #BassGuitar #CoverBands #TributeBand #Rush
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Francois Smit — guitarist for Empress and a rising force in Chicago’s rock scene.Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes talk with Francois about:🎶 His journey from South Africa to Chicago’s music scene🎸 Life in Empress with Tamara Woodruff, Alex James, Bill, and Sean🎤 Carnival life stories, first U.S. impressions, and food discoveries🏟️ Chicago live music vs. South Africa’s scene🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive! / hogpod Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-36920:001:10 Shout out to Prior guest Rob Stepen • HOGPOD Chicago Local Music Scene Podcast ... 2:50 Mike Dermonth Drum Circle5:58 Bongo Mike Explanation of Drum Circle10:21 Francois Smit joins the show11;28 Coterie Yacht Rock Sept 28 The Vixen13:13 Friction Reunion Oct 25 Broken Oar14:25 Mosquitos at Wheeling Town Center 9/11/25 / 2367935456955088 16:00 Francois Introduction17:45 Tamara Woodruff Empress Show Clip • Tamara Woodruff (Blue Bayou) – Linda Ronst... 18:05 Empress Band20:25 Francois first visit to America23:36 Francois was a carnie?27:34 Is it safe for Francois to go back to South Africa28:13 Whats the music scen liek in South Africa?29:55 How Does a South African get into Rock Music33:48 Food Experiences39:05 Chicago Scene Vs South African Party Scene43:02 Pete Dankelson jamming with the Struts47:51 Pete Dankelson show clip • Thanksgiving with Peter Dankelson: Music, ... 51:00 Doug Shoenbeck show clip52:10 Empress shows / 1843421552951368 Sep 6 DOcks Wauconda54:01 Coterie Event Sep 28 Vixen Yacht Rock54:56 Mosquitos at Wheeling Town Center 9/11/25 / 2367935456955088 55:42 Chris Rhodes playing Ozzy Celebration Charity event Oct 19 Vixen57:32 Bongo Mikes rapid fire question1:02:48 Do chicks dig the accent?#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller #FrancoisSmit #EmpressBand #SouthAfrica #RockMusic #ChicagoBands
This week on the Hogpod Chicago Music Scene Podcast, we welcome Rob Stepen — Chicago rocker, storyteller, and frontman of The Generations. Rob’s story is incredible: in 1985 he recorded songs that sat forgotten for nearly four decades in his attic. Thanks to legendary producer Steve Albini, those long-lost tapes were restored and re-released as the album Alternate View.
Hosts Mike “Bongo” Orfanos, Mike Dermont, Pete Jansons, and Chris “Rhodesy” Rhodes are joined by booker Beth Miller to dive into Rob’s journey — rediscovering his analog reels, working with Albini, honoring Flock violinist Jerry Goodman, playing iconic venues like the Des Plaines Theatre, and giving back through Joey’s Song, a nonprofit raising funds for epilepsy research in memory of Joseph Gomoll.
Rob shares what it’s like to hear your teenage self on tape 38 years later, how much it really cost to restore the reels, and why passion and service fuel everything he does with The Generations.
🔗 Connect with Rob Stepen & The Generations:
Website: https://robstepenmusic.com/
🎧 Enjoying the show? Support Hogpod on Patreon and help us keep the Chicago music stories alive!
https://www.patreon.com/hogpod
Are you a band, club owner, or booker and want to be on the show? Reach out to Beth Miller for booking:
Beth@hogpod.org | 708-287-3692
0:00 Opening Clip WGN 2024 Interview with Rob and the band The Generations https://youtu.be/oY84UxwspXc
7:04 Happy Anniversary Mike And Debbie
7:39 Chris Rhodes playing with Focal Point in Buffalo Grove
12:08 Shoutout to Anthem
17:44 Special Guest Rob Stepen
18:28 Rob Stepen Intro
20:15 Joey’s Song Charity https://www.joeyssong.org/our-story Joey’s Song fights epilepsy with music in memory of Joseph Gomoll, who died in 2010 just shy of his fifth birthday after suffering a debilitating form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome.
20:48 Rob tells the story of refurbishing his long-lost album with Steve Albini!
23:11 Butch Vig
25:42 The Flock Band https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Flock_(band)
26:51 Jerry Goodman violinist
27:42 Des Plaines Theatre and Ron Onesti Hospitality
28:54 Rob Interview WGN https://youtu.be/y04t-cyqPwA and Rob’s mastery of marketing plans
38:35 Shout out to company Rob works for Insperity https://www.insperity.com/
40:53 Coterie Yacht Rock event Sep 28 2pm The Vixen McHenry https://www.facebook.com/share/1K2so91vET/
42:01 Sandy Gennaro https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandy_Gennaro
43:31 Rob, Beth Green Room Story
44:53 Mike Gomoll Founder at Joey’s Song Story https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-gomoll/
49:42 Shout out to Green Room Manager Jackie Des Plaines Theatre
51:53 The Generations Band Story
57:18 What was it like to go back and listen to yourself in high school on those tapes
58:16 Steve Albini story on refurbishing the tapes the first visit
59:35 How much was it to get refurbished?
1:01:46 What would Steve Albini say about music and AI if he were alive today
1:03:09 Joey DeMarco United Talent Corporation Booking shout out
1:08:42 TUTS and other old school bars
1:12:50 Differences today vs old school bands
1:17:08 Bongo Mike Question Time
1:21:48 How to book The Generations? https://robstepenmusic.com/
#Hogpod #ChicagoMusic #RobStepen #TheGenerations #SteveAlbini #JoeysSong #DesPlainesTheatre #SandyGennaro #ChicagoBands #MusicPodcast #MikeOrfanos #MikeDermont #PeteJansons #ChrisRhodesyRhodes #BethMiller