The Hang! As Seen On Almost Famous Magazine!

Nick Faye on Songwriting, Prairie Roots & Staying Human in Music on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Canadian singer-songwriter Nick Faye for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about music, mental health, and staying grounded in an industry that often rewards noise over nuance. Hailing from Regina, Saskatchewan, Nick has spent years crafting indie pop songs that feel less like performances and more like late-night conversations with an old friend—honest, reflective, and quietly powerful.
Nick traces his musical beginnings back to childhood lessons encouraged by his parents, before discovering songwriting at summer camps where music was celebrated as a shared language. That sense of community would later shape his artistic philosophy: making art for friends first, not algorithms. Throughout the conversation, Nick opens up about the chaotic yet rewarding process of creating his 2025 album Good Love, recorded across distances, life changes, and limited resources—an experience that tested both patience and mental resilience.
The discussion dives deeply into mental health in the modern music industry, particularly the emotional toll of social media, metrics, and constant self-promotion. Nick speaks openly about burnout, comparison culture, and the pressure artists face to turn themselves into brands rather than people. His perspective is refreshingly grounded: success isn’t measured in streams alone, but in meaningful connections, honest art, and personal well-being.Nick also reflects on prairie life and the unique challenges of building a music career far from major industry hubs. From watching friends leave small scenes to grieving creative communities that constantly shift, he shares how place influences songwriting and identity. Along the way, he highlights the importance of supporting local artists, touring communities, and showing up—whether that means buying a record, attending a show, or simply listening with intention.
The episode wraps with Nick recommending key entry points into his catalog, discussing artists who inspire him, and imagining future collaborations rooted in storytelling rather than hype. Thoughtful, funny, and deeply human, this conversation captures exactly what The Hang! is about: letting artists tell their stories in their own voice.
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Inside Billy Harvey’s Num: Anxiety, Awakening, and Authentic Songwriting on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger reconnects with Nashville-based singer/songwriter Billy Harvey for a deep, unfiltered conversation centered around Billy’s powerful new album, Num. Returning as one of the earliest guests in the show’s history, Billy reflects on how time, parenthood, anxiety, and social unrest have reshaped both his life and his songwriting.
The discussion opens with the idea that “time is a thief,” a theme that runs throughout Num. Billy shares how becoming more aware of time’s passing has influenced the way he writes, records, and lives, especially as a father. The album explores vulnerability not as weakness, but as clarity—an awakening from emotional numbness into something more honest and activated.
Billy breaks down his creative process, describing Num as a layered work, crafted almost like a “Chinese box,” revealing deeper meaning with each listen. From the opening track “We Are the Aliens” to songs like “Anxiety Attack,” “Millennial Falcons,” and the title track “Num,” the album confronts modern overwhelm, social disconnection, and the desire for collective action.
Family plays a central role in the record, with Billy’s children contributing vocals and energy, blurring the line between personal life and art. This refusal to separate worlds is core to Billy’s philosophy—authenticity over performance, truth over polish. He speaks candidly about insecurity, self-doubt, and the emotional toll of making records, while also expressing an unshakable need to keep creating.
The conversation also touches on gender dynamics, empowerment, and Billy’s belief that society urgently needs stronger female leadership. He reflects on the importance of community, togetherness, and showing up for one another in an increasingly fragmented world.
Throughout the episode, Billy’s evolving relationship with music is clear: less concerned with industry outcomes and more focused on honesty, connection, and the timeless act of making songs that matter. Num is not just an album—it’s a reckoning, an invitation to wake up, and a reminder that music can still cut through the noise. 
 
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Arily Michele: From Kylie Minogue to Neo-Psychedelic Pop and Murder Ballads on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Nashville-based singer-songwriter and producer Arily Michele for a deep-dive conversation that explores creativity, identity, and the cinematic forces shaping modern independent music. From her earliest memories of singing and writing music to developing her signature blend of neo-psychedelic pop, synth-forward soundscapes, and dreamy textures, Arily opens up about the lifelong relationship that music has played in her life.
Arily traces her musical origin story back to childhood, recalling how a single Kylie Minogue melody sparked an obsession with pop hooks, intervals, and melody that would later evolve into a sophisticated, emotionally rich sound. Influenced by powerhouse vocalists like Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston alongside synth-pop pioneers and modern dream-pop artists, her music balances technical precision with immersive atmosphere.
A major turning point in Arily’s creative development came through film scoring and cinematic storytelling. She discusses how studying film music sharpened her ability to evoke emotion through sound, shaping songs that feel visual, expansive, and transportive. That influence is especially evident in her darker recent work, including a haunting murder ballad inspired by an episode of The X-Files, where reversed synths, eerie textures, and operatic vocal layers collide.
Throughout the conversation, Arily reflects on balancing a modern music career with life responsibilities, advocating for independence, consistency, and the importance of earning listeners one by one. She speaks candidly about self-promotion, burnout, and why building a genuine community matters more than chasing instant metrics. The discussion also touches on mentorship, collaboration, and the personal relationships that have shaped her journey — including the importance of creative partners and educators who helped make a sustainable music career feel possible.
The episode closes with a look ahead to 2026, as Arily hints at new music, evolving themes, and deeper explorations of identity, self-acceptance, and cinematic storytelling. It’s a thoughtful, inspiring conversation about carving your own path, staying curious, and letting art evolve as life unfolds. 
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The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine
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P. Moss Reveals: Screwing Sinatra, Vegas Untold History, Ass Juice origins & more on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Las Vegas legend, novelist, bar owner, cultural historian, and eternal storyteller P. Moss, the creative force behind the iconic Double Down Saloon and the world-famous Frankie's Tiki Room. Moss takes us on a raw, unfiltered journey through his life—starting with childhood moments that sparked his love of writing, to his early days studying journalism, to the instant he realized his destiny was waiting in Las Vegas. 
Known for blending grit, observation, minimalism, and a “less is more” philosophy, Moss explains how screenwriting structure and his talent for noticing the smallest human behaviors shaped his novels, including his explosive new historical fiction thriller “Screwing Sinatra”, which intertwines Sinatra, JFK, political conspiracies, Las Vegas power brokers, and the dangerous glamour of 1960. Moss opens up about the origins of the bacon martini, the infamous and beloved Ass Juice shot, and what it was like watching the Double Down evolve from a hidden dive to an international cultural landmark. He shares stories of punk bands, Japanese tours with his own group, his commitment to preserving authentic Vegas culture, and how Las Vegas has changed—both for better and worse. Moss discusses his upcoming book Kill Crazy, why he rejects literary pretension, and what makes Las Vegas one of the most fascinating storytelling canvases in America. 
He also reflects on the underground art, music, and nightlife scenes that thrive off the Strip, why Frankie's Tiki Room has become a global destination, and how important it is for young creatives to pursue their passions without excuses. Filled with humor, chaos, honesty, and true Vegas lore, this episode is a masterclass in writing, risk-taking, Las Vegas history, punk rock culture, following your gut, and choosing a life of creativity over conformity. Whether you love old Vegas, punk rock bars, tiki culture, historical fiction, or just great storytelling, this is an unforgettable conversation with one of the city’s most influential figures. Dive in, grab a bacon martini, avoid the crack-smoking grandma on Fremont Street, and discover why P. Moss remains one of the underground kings of Las Vegas.
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Mylo Bybee's Tyler Schlagenhauf: The Making of an Alt-Rock Band Across Three Eras on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Tyler Schlagenhauf, the creative force behind Pacific Northwest alt-rock band Mylo Bybee, for a deep and revealing conversation about music, isolation, and evolution. Tyler traces his relationship with music back to childhood—shaped by parents who filled the house with records—and follows the path that led him from local shows and college bands to living completely off the grid in rural Alaska.
Tyler shares vivid stories from his years teaching in remote Alaskan villages, where there were no roads, no cell phones, and no distractions—only silence, survival, and perspective. Those years left a permanent mark on his songwriting, especially on the band’s emotionally charged single “I Wish You Well,” a song born from stillness, nature, and reflection. The conversation explores how those experiences helped Tyler strip away noise—both literal and metaphorical—and reconnect with what matters most in art and life.
The episode also dives into the formation of Mylo Bybee during the pandemic, when family members came together to create music out of necessity and connection. Tyler explains how the band has evolved through multiple lineups, creative phases, and sonic shifts, culminating in their upcoming Revisions EP on Gold Ship Records. He discusses the importance of live performance, the role of collaboration, and how the band continues to grow with new members and fresh creative energy.
Beyond the personal journey, Tyler offers thoughtful insight into the modern music industry—its challenges, opportunities, and contradictions. From streaming realities to the return of physical media, he shares how artists can stay grounded while still reaching listeners around the world. The conversation closes with dream collaborations, artists Tyler admires, and recommendations for music fans looking to discover something new.
This episode is a powerful reminder that great music often comes from stillness, honesty, and lived experience—and that sometimes, stepping away from everything helps you find your voice.
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From Opera to Popera: Cassandra Redefines Modern Pop on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang! from Almost Famous Magazine, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Cassandra Pinataro, a powerhouse vocalist, award-winning songwriter, and creator of a brand-new genre she calls Popera — a breathtaking blend of operatic technique and contemporary pop. With a four-octave range, a background that spans symphony halls and recording studios, and a fearless creative spirit, Cassandra is rewriting the rules of modern music.
Cassandra’s story begins with an early love of singing, nurtured by her mother’s encouragement and classical training. After studying at the New England Conservatory and majoring in opera, she realized that her true calling went beyond tradition. During the pandemic, while living in North Florida, Cassandra began songwriting — a creative spark that led her from classical arias to pop hooks. What emerged was a unique sonic experiment: the birth of Popera — “dance-pop dipped in opera,” as she describes it.
Her new EP, Prima Donna (out January 9th), showcases that innovation. Tracks like “Queen of Every Night” transform Mozart’s Queen of the Night Aria into an anthem of self-empowerment, while “Carmen” reimagines Bizet’s classic through a modern, mischievous lens. Each song captures a character, a story, and a piece of Cassandra herself. The result is cinematic pop that bridges centuries and captivates audiences who’ve never heard anything quite like it.
Throughout the conversation, Cassandra opens up about the mentors who helped shape her career — including producer Ron Harris (known for his work with Christina Aguilera and Fergie) — and shares how a spontaneous meeting at a Los Angeles music conference changed her life. She also dives into her creative process, her master’s degree in music business from Berklee, and the balance between being an artist and a content creator in today’s digital landscape.
Influenced by Lady Gaga, Freddie Mercury, and the theatrical legacy of composers like Jim Steinman, Cassandra pushes boundaries with unapologetic boldness. She embraces both the glamour and grit of being a modern artist, acknowledging the love-hate relationship with social media while staying laser-focused on connection and impact.
Now based in Los Angeles, Cassandra is preparing to perform and promote Prima Donna while already crafting her next EP — promising even bolder vocals and deeper storytelling. As she tells Scott, “People need that glimmer — that feeling of empowerment. My goal is to give them that moment every time they listen.”
Join The Hang! for this inspiring, genre-breaking conversation with Cassandra Pinataro — an artist proving that pop can be powerful, operatic, and entirely new.
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Authenticity in Music: Meghan Pulles on Being Fearless and Vulnerable on The Hang!

In this heartfelt episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Nashville-based singer/songwriter Meghan Pulles—a true siren of emotional authenticity. Known for transforming pain into poetry and memory into melody, Meghan’s music invites listeners to feel deeply, heal honestly, and connect with the parts of themselves they’ve long silenced.
From her early days in opera training to her evolution as an indie artist with a healing mission, Meghan’s story is one of courage, self-discovery, and unfiltered truth. She opens up about growing up with music in her blood, being raised by a father who played guitar and sang opera, and how the stage became her sanctuary from an early age. Influenced by artists like Joni Mitchell, Karen Carpenter, Regina Spektor, and Ingrid Michaelson, Meghan learned that vulnerability could be powerful—and that authenticity could be revolutionary.
Her debut album Ear Baby introduced listeners to her ethereal yet grounded sound, but her upcoming project, Portraits of a Heavy Heart, represents a deeper metamorphosis. “This one is not afraid to look you in the face,” Meghan says. “This is the pain. This is the suffering. This is Meghan Pulles.” The conversation dives into her creative rebirth—how she cut out toxicity, embraced her truth, and began writing with fearless honesty.
Scott and Meghan explore the balance between artistry and industry in the age of constant content creation. She speaks candidly about the pressure of being both musician and marketer, and how maintaining integrity amidst social media noise remains one of her greatest challenges. Yet through it all, her mission remains unwavering: to create a cathartic space for healing through sound.
Meghan also discusses her work with Produced by a Girl, the mentorship that helped her overcome self-doubt, and the moment her producer pushed her to embrace her operatic voice—transforming her sound forever. The episode touches on her struggles with confidence, her belief that “finding confidence is a slow burn,” and how “what I say could help someone” became her guiding mantra.
As she prepares to release two new albums and plan upcoming shows in Nashville and New York, Meghan shares her personal self-care routines, her battle with “comparisonitis,” and the grounding practices that keep her inspired. With a spirit both gentle and fierce, she reminds artists everywhere that healing is not linear—and that embracing your light can change lives.
Watch now, subscribe, and support Meghan Pulles by streaming, sharing, and buying her music.
#MeghanPulles #TheHangPodcast #HealingThroughMusic #SingerSongwriter #authenticartist 
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The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine
Welcome to 'The Hang!', the ultimate music conversation series where artists, songwriters, and creative minds share the stories behind the sound. Hosted by Scott Saldinger, each episode dives deep into the journeys, struggles, and inspirations that shape today’s most captivating musicians—from punk rock and prog to Americana, pop, and beyond.
Join us as we hang out with legends and rising stars alike, including Simon Hanson (Squeeze), The Cyberiam, Tony Scalzo (Fastball), Steve “Smiley” Barnard (The Alarm), Ben McKelvey, Horace Pinker, DK Lyons, Chris Holt (The Eagles), Billy Biohazard, and many more. Discover raw, unfiltered stories about songwriting, touring life, the creative grind, and what it really takes to make it in today’s music world.
🎙️ New episodes every week — tune in for deep dives, laughs, and insights that connect music lovers and artists across every genre.
Subscribe to Almost Famous Magazine’s YouTube channel and never miss an episode of 'The Hang!' — where music meets meaning, and every conversation hits a new note.
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Brodie Christ Opens Up About “Big Feelings” and Finding Simplicity in Songwriting on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang! on Almost Famous Magazine, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Toronto-based singer-songwriter Brodie Christ for a deeply human and refreshingly honest conversation about the creative process behind his newest album, Big Feelings. Known for his melodic hooks and emotionally grounded songwriting, Brodie opens up about his beginnings singing hymns with his family in church, the influence of musicals like Cats and Mary Poppins on his melodic sense, and the raw storytelling that defines his new work.
Brodie shares the origins of his standout single, Born Middle End—a heartfelt song exploring comparison, family dynamics, and gratitude. Written in a moment of clarity, the track captures the universal experience of measuring ourselves against others while reminding listeners that being “in the middle” is actually a gift. The accompanying video, shot with spontaneity and humor, perfectly mirrors Brodie’s approach to life and art—simple, sincere, and full of creative surprises.
As the episode unfolds, Brodie dives into his artistic philosophy—why he values simplicity over perfection, and how he sets boundaries that allow his creativity to flourish. He reflects on his journey from drummer to frontman, his admiration for artists like Neil Young, Jim Croce, John Prine, and Al Green, and how songwriting remains a tool for both self-discovery and connection. From the mellow introspection of It’s All On You to the philosophical tone of In a Loop, Brodie’s music reflects a mature artist comfortable living in the gray spaces of life.
The conversation also explores the realities of today’s music industry. Brodie candidly discusses the challenge of balancing creativity with marketing in an age of constant content, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, spontaneity, and genuine relationships over chasing algorithms. For Brodie, art isn’t about status or fame—it’s about honest connection, community, and storytelling that makes people feel something real.
In closing, Scott and Brodie share a laugh over power outages, Canadian influences, and dream collaborations. Brodie’s perspective—grounded, humble, and refreshingly self-aware—reminds us why independent artists like him deserve our support. His message is simple but powerful: music should make you feel good, make you think, and make you grateful for the moments that matter.
So plug in your headphones, hit play, and experience The Hang!—where authentic conversations meet the heartbeat of great music.
#BrodieChrist #BigFeelings #TheHangPodcast #CanadianMusic #singersongwriter 
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Roxx Revolt: Songwriting, Shows, Support Systems Creative Process & Nashville Grind on The Hang!

In this electrifying episode of 'The Hang', host Scott Saldinger sits down with Roxx Revolt — front person Roxx Revolt, guitarist Jake Shockley, bassist Devin Lashbrook, and drummer Chris Campo — to explore their journey from a DIY Florida rock outfit to forging a bold new identity in the heart of Nashville’s vibrant music scene.
The conversation begins with the band’s 2018 formation and dives into how lineup changes over the years helped shape their ever-evolving sound. With raw honesty, the band shares what led them to make the leap to Nashville, citing the city’s fast-paced energy, diverse music culture, and sense of community as key drivers. “We wanted to go to a bigger city,” they say — and Nashville offered that next-level opportunity.
Songwriting, for Roxx Revolt and The Velvets, is deeply collaborative. The band describes a creative process built on spontaneity and shared energy, where ideas can be sparked by everyday experiences and molded by each member’s unique perspective. Roxx’s powerhouse vocals, backed by Jake’s gritty guitar riffs, Devin’s steady low end, and Chris’s thunderous drumming, create a signature sound that fuses glam rock, garage punk, and classic soul into something entirely their own.
The group opens up about the challenges of establishing themselves in a new city — from rebuilding a fanbase to finding the right venues — and the emotional weight of starting over. Through it all, support from family, friends, and a tight-knit community has played a crucial role. “Patience is key in this band,” Roxx reflects, underscoring their belief in steady growth over shortcuts.
They also share standout moments from their live shows, revealing how stage energy, crowd reactions, and touring experiences have shaped them as performers. Whether playing sweaty club gigs or outdoor indie festivals, the band treats each show as an opportunity to connect and grow.
Looking ahead, Roxx Revolt and The Velvets talk about their preference for releasing singles, which allows them creative freedom and flexibility in today’s streaming-driven music landscape. They tease future projects, including new material, visual concepts, and hopes for touring across the U.S. and internationally.
This episode is more than just a conversation — it’s a portrait of a band that believes in artistic authenticity, persistence, and the power of reinvention. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, this deep dive into the world of Roxx Revolt is a must-watch for anyone passionate about music, creativity, and what it really takes to carve out space in today’s evolving industry.
#RoxxRevolt #RockBandInterview #NashvilleMusic #SongwritingProcess #TheHangInterview
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Eric Harrison on “Bittersweet,” Diners, and the Art of Real Americana | The Hang!

In this episode of Almost Famous Magazine’s The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Eric Harrison, the New Jersey-based Americana singer-songwriter and trial attorney whose music blends heart, humor, and authenticity. Known for his wry storytelling and influences that span Bob Dylan, Elvis Costello, and Bruce Springsteen, Harrison has spent three decades crafting songs that balance poetic introspection with blue-collar realism. His eighth studio album, Bittersweet, captures that delicate dance between desire, loss, and the middle-aged search for peace.
Scott and Eric explore how music found him as a child—through his uncle’s record collection and those iconic red and blue Beatles albums—and how that spark evolved alongside a thriving legal career. Eric shares how being a lawyer sharpened his love of language and precision, tools that now shape his songwriting. From his early debates over The Joshua Tree to learning guitar at nineteen, he reflects on how creative passion endures even when life takes unexpected detours.
They dive into Eric’s songwriting process, where poems often become melodies. He describes working with producer Kevin Salem (Freedy Johnston, Yo La Tengo) and how self-critique fuels his growth. Discussing his latest record, Eric reveals the Stoic philosophies behind Bittersweet—inspired by Marcus Aurelius—and how songs like “Sing What I Can’t Say,” “Accidental Poetry,” and “Diner” explore love, loss, and the beauty of ordinary places. “Diner,” in particular, is a nostalgic love letter to those all-night Jersey diners where friendships, heartbreaks, and pancakes coexist.
The episode also touches on how COVID reshaped his connection to fans—performing porch concerts via Facebook Live that unexpectedly reached audiences in Brazil—and how the digital age has democratized music for independent artists. “Art is art,” Harrison notes, “whether it’s Britney Spears or the Velvet Underground—you judge it on its own merits.”
Eric shares his admiration for Taylor Swift’s songwriting genius, his love for Wilco, Elliott Smith, Mac DeMarco, and the modern “chicks who whisper” like Gracie Abrams. He discusses the emotional liberation that comes with accepting that music doesn’t have to be a career to be meaningful—it just has to be real.
Whether you’re a lifelong Springsteen devotee, a fan of Americana storytelling, or someone navigating the chaos of middle age, this episode will resonate deeply.
🎧 Listen in, grab a coffee, and join The Hang—where the stories behind the songs come to life.
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