The Hang! As Seen On Almost Famous Magazine!

Welcome to The Hang! As Seen On Almost Famous Magazine – your ultimate destination for everything music! Dive deep into the world of music production, backstage stories, and creative insights with our exclusive content. We bring you engaging conversations with a diverse range of talents, including musicians, lighting and stage designers, sound engineers, and other creatives in the music industry. almostfamousmagazine.com Our channel features in-depth interviews with top artists such as Tony Scalzo of Fastball, Nic Collins, Ben McKelvey, Tim Howar, Steve ”Smiley” Barnard, Rob Ruckus, Kate Clover, Gizz Lazlo, Scott Mayo, Kris Dollimore, Lightnin Woodcock, Sharif Dumani, Yolanda Charles, Jim McDermott, Gary O’Toole, Dave Kerzner, Salim Nourallah, Dean Friedman, Jonas Reingold, Sub-Radio, Lilith Clockwork, Clit-45, The Baboon Show, Skwert Gunn of Public Serpents, FIDLAR, The Toasters, Jack McBannon, and many more. Join us as we explore the stories behind the music, the technical aspects of live performances, and the creative processes that bring unforgettable shows to life. Subscribe now to Almost Famous Magazine and stay updated with the latest in the music world!

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Episodes

Tuesday Nov 04, 2025

In this emotional and deeply revealing episode of The Hang! on Almost Famous Magazine, host Scott Saldinger sits down with David Leaf — Peabody and WGAW award-winning writer, director, producer, and author — for a conversation that bridges journalism, music history, and personal faith in creativity. Known for The U.S. vs. John Lennon, Beautiful Dreamer: Brian Wilson and the Story of SMiLE, and The Night James Brown Saved Boston, David Leaf has spent decades chronicling the artistic journeys of music’s most enigmatic legends.
David shares the remarkable story of how a chance meeting with Dennis Wilson shortly after moving to California changed his life forever, inspiring him to write The Beach Boys and the California Myth, and eventually form a lifelong friendship with Brian Wilson himself. Through riveting storytelling, Leaf recalls the defining moments that shaped his career — from discovering the Beach Boys’ Surf’s Up album in a record store to becoming one of the few people who truly witnessed Brian Wilson’s creative resurrection.
The discussion moves through time, touching on the making of SMiLE: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Brian Wilson (2025), and the emotional weight behind Brian’s performances captured on Live at the Roxy Theatre. David reveals Brian’s belief that his music was a channel for divine love — a way to disguise and deliver emotion to his audience. You'll gain intimate insight into how Brian Wilson’s struggles, humility, and unyielding spirit led to not one but two legendary careers.
David discusses Brian's of artistry, perseverance, and redemption — drawing connections between the Beach Boys, the Beatles, and generations of musicians influenced by Wilson’s genius. From the courage it took Brian to return to the stage to the unconditional love of his bandmates in The Wondermints, this episode reminds us of music’s enduring ability to heal and unite.
For fans of Pet Sounds, Good Vibrations, God Only Knows, and Smile, this conversation is both an education and an inspiration. David Leaf’s perspective as both historian and friend paints a portrait of Brian Wilson as not just a pop icon, but an artist whose melodies echo with divine purpose and timeless humanity.
Whether you’re a lifelong Beach Boys devotee, a Beatles fan, or simply someone moved by great storytelling, this episode is a must-watch — a reminder that it’s never too late for dreams to come true.
#BrianWilson #TheBeachBoys #DavidLeaf #MusicDocumentary #thehangpodcast 
Buy “SMiLE: The Rise, Fall, and Resurrection of Brian Wilson” here:Amazon USAmazon UK
David’s website
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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.
#TheHang #AlmostFamousMagazine #MusicPodcast #RockMusic #IndieArtists #BehindTheMusic #Songwriting #MusicianInterviews #PunkRock #ProgRock #Americana #MusicCulture #ArtistStories #CreativeProcess #LiveMusic

Tuesday Oct 28, 2025

In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger welcomes Cristóbal, frontman of the rising Caribbean punk band KRONA. Known for blending hardcore urgency with reggae grooves and Caribbean rhythms, KRONA is carving out a bold new space in global punk. With their explosive single The Weasel Strut released on October 10 and their highly anticipated debut album Dead Air Diaries arriving November 22, the band is pushing boundaries with music that is both deeply personal and unapologetically political.
Cristóbal traces KRONA’s origins back to friendships forged in the Dominican Republic’s underground punk scene. He shares how early influences like Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, and Social Distortion mixed with Caribbean sounds such as merengue, bachata, salsa, and reggaetón to create KRONA’s distinctive sound. The band’s collaborative process—especially with drummer Chino of Zeta—infuses a fresh avant-garde energy into their songwriting. Tracks like Caribbean Winter, Take Him All, and The Weasel Strut showcase their ability to turn personal experiences into political statements, tackling topics from colonial legacies to systemic constraints on creativity, to the tragedy of global conflict.
The conversation also dives into the changing music industry. Cristóbal reflects on the tension between content creation and authentic artistry, emphasizing KRONA’s commitment to touring and real-world fan connection over chasing algorithms. “Make the music for myself,” he says, “and if people like it, that’s good. If they don’t, I don’t care.” For KRONA, playing 52 shows in 58 days is more meaningful than building followers who may never attend a gig. The band is committed to releasing a new album every year to keep momentum alive, while staying true to their values.
Cristóbal opens up about his personal protest—turning experiences like confronting hate at shows into music that resonates without being preachy. He highlights the importance of vinyl and physical albums as artifacts that capture time and memory, preserving authenticity in a digital age. Looking ahead, KRONA is already preparing their second album, planning tours, and setting their sights on stages like Punk Rock Bowling. Cristóbal also shares a dream collaboration with Trent Reznor, praising Nine Inch Nails for their unmatched live experience and artistic innovation.
This episode is more than an interview—it’s a manifesto on why authenticity, vulnerability, and cultural pride still matter in punk rock. Whether you’re drawn to the politics, the rhythms, or the passion, KRONA is a band you need to know. Support them by grabbing Dead Air Diaries on vinyl, catching them on tour, and joining the movement of Caribbean punk that’s here to stay
#caribbean #krona #DeadAirDiaries #MusicInterview #AuthenticityInMusic #punk #punkrock 
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#MotleyCrue #Poison #GunsNRoses #Rancid #NOFX #Pennywise #SocialDistortion #DeathByStereo #StrungOut #Belvedere #LaArmada #Zeta #CoDefendants #EZBand #TheSmiths #PiñataProtest #LessThanJake #NineInchNails #Tool #Puscifer #APerfectCircle #SmashingPumpkins #AliceInChains #GunsNRoses #Paris #FatMike #MattFreeman #TrentReznor #BenFolds #LindsayKraft #Nirvana #taylorswift

Tuesday Oct 21, 2025

In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with indie pop singer-pianist Max Weinman—often likened to Billy Joel—for an intimate conversation about music, emotion, and evolution. Here's everything you'll discover:
From his musical upbringing in a family of creatives to arriving at the piano later than most, Max shares how “music kind of found me”—a personal revelation that shaped his entire artistic path. Together, they explore the emotional core of his songwriting, rooted deeply in heartbreak and intimacy. Max describes his heartache-driven craft, stating that heartbreak is a central theme. His raw lyrics—described as “deep emotional vulnerability”—create a space where listeners feel truly seen.
He reflects on writing lyrics and melody side by side: “I often write music and lyrics simultaneously,” he admits, giving rare insight into his creative flow. The episode delves into his evolution as a producer, revealing lessons around timing, pacing, and collaboration—especially the importance of knowing when to let go and trust others.
Max cites influences like Billy Joel, Elton John, and Emmett Rhodes, weaving vintage 60s–70s tones into modern indie pop. He also shares his wide musical taste, from folk to classic rock, and how he discovered talent online, saying: “I found Dean Friedman through Spotify shuffle.”
Looking ahead, Max teases exciting plans: a steady stream of new singles building toward his next full-length album, where he will push boundaries while staying true to his core identity. He talks about the honor he feels when compared to legendary artists, and his drive to carve out his own evolving sound.
Whether you're a rising musician, a songwriting enthusiast, or just someone who loves piano-based indie pop, this episode of The Hang with Max Weinman will resonate deeply. Tune in as he shares his unique voice, heartfelt process, and vision for the future.
#MaxWeinman #piano #emotionalsong #thehangpodcast #billyjoel #eltonjohn #DeanFriedman
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Friday Oct 17, 2025

In this episode of The Hang! host Scott Saldinger sits down with the legendary Chicago-based punk rock band Horace Pinker — Scott Eastman, Bryan Jones, and Greg Mihich — for a deep dive into their 30-year journey through the global punk scene. From their early days in Tempe, Arizona, to international tours with NOFX, Green Day, Fugazi, and The Offspring, Horace Pinker has carved out a legacy defined by raw energy, melodic intelligence, and DIY resilience.
The conversation opens with the band reflecting on their origins and evolution — including how they took an unplanned break at the height of their popularity and how that pause ultimately led to creative rebirth. In true punk fashion, they accidentally released an EP during the pandemic when Bryan uploaded songs to DistroKid and forgot about the release date — a happy accident that reignited their momentum and led to their newest full-length album, Now in the Future, out now on People of Punk Rock Records.
Listeners get an inside look at the songwriting process, from gritty, fast-paced anthems to more melodic and introspective tracks like “Fear of Heights” and “Three Against Me.” The band discusses working with producers like Dan Precision (Rise Against, 88 Fingers Louie), sequencing songs to create emotional flow, and how important it is to listen to albums front to back — a lost art in today’s streaming world. They also share stories about recording at Sonic Iguana Studios, past collaborations, and unforgettable moments touring across Asia, Europe, and North America — all booked in the early days of MySpace.
Beyond the music, Scott, Bryan, and Greg get candid about their influences — from Dag Nasty, Naked Raygun, and Pegboy to Deftones and Bob Mould — and the timeless community spirit of punk rock. The band’s humor, honesty, and camaraderie shine throughout, underscoring why they’ve remained a respected staple in the punk scene for over three decades.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Horace Pinker, this episode captures everything that makes punk rock meaningful: grit, friendship, melody, and staying true to your voice. Don’t shuffle this one — spin Now in the Future from start to finish, support independent artists, and keep punk alive.
#HoracePinker #PunkRock #TheHangPodcast #NowInTheFuture #ChicagoPunk
 @horacepinker47  WebsiteInstagramFacebook
#HoracePinker #GreenDay #NOFX #Fugazi #TheOffspring #RiseAgainst #88FingersLouie #DagNasty #NakedRaygun #Pegboy #Deftones #BobMould

Tuesday Oct 14, 2025

In this episode of "The Hang!", host Scott Saldinger sits down with British singer-songwriter Simon Scardanelli for an intimate, wide-ranging conversation about his eclectic musical journey and the deeply personal stories behind his new album "Underneath the Singing Tree". From writing his first song at age 10—convinced someone had stolen his melody—to becoming part of the late-’80s charting duo Big Bam Boo, Simon reflects on the formative experiences that shaped his identity as an artist. He shares how a love for The Beatles opened the door to songwriting, and how the cultural jolt of moving to New York City in the early ’90s transformed his music forever. There, amid the gritty chaos of the Lower East Side, Simon recorded '"Death Row Tales", a record rooted in urban storytelling and nocturnal revelation. That same spirit of authenticity and reinvention flows through his latest release, 'Underneath the Singing Tree'—his first solo album in six years. Recorded in his home studio in Brittany, France, this collection captures raw, one-take performances played without click tracks, where every note and breath feels immediate and alive.
Simon describes the album as a cohesive emotional narrative—selecting songs from a deep catalog to create a unified listening experience. He opens up about the finger-blistering process of recording in solitude, battling technical hurdles, and the joy of creative breakthroughs when themes start to reveal themselves. From poetic reflections on time and loss in “Five Seconds Ago Last Year” to the cinematic storytelling of “Battle Ships,” each track is layered with meaning and delivered with unfiltered passion. He also touches on his parallel folk-opera project and creative partnership with Sophie Caudin, whose musical contributions add texture to the album’s rich sonic palette. The conversation is peppered with memorable quotes—“I thought I had written it,” he laughs when recalling his childhood moment of musical realization. “I love this song,” he says with a grin, describing one of the tracks. And of another: “I think it’s a masterpiece.” These aren’t just soundbites—they’re testaments to the emotional truth embedded in his work.
Beyond the music, Simon makes a heartfelt plea to listeners: support your local music scenes. Attend the small gigs. Discover artists before algorithms do. It’s a reminder that meaningful music isn’t always trending—it’s often waiting in your own backyard. This episode is more than a retrospective; it’s a celebration of resilience, artistic honesty, and the lifelong evolution of a songwriter committed to reinvention. Whether you’re a fan of folk, rock, or genre-blending experimental music, or you’re just seeking inspiration from someone who has lived through the highs and lows of a life in song, this conversation delivers. So sit back, press play, and hang with Simon Scardanelli as he reveals what’s underneath the singing tree—and why it still sings.
#SimonScardanelli #UnderneathTheSingingTree #SongwritingStory #IndieMusic2025 #MusicJourney #france #BigBamBoo
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Friday Oct 10, 2025

In this gripping episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with D.K. Lyons, the New York City‑based indie musician whose art is profoundly shaped by Dante’s Divine Comedy. From recounting childhood influences to exploring his modern creative journey, D.K. offers rare insight into the life of an independent artist forging a unique path.
We begin with D.K.’s early awakening to music—triggered by discovering Tom Petty at age 5—which sparked a lifelong devotion to songwriting. He recounts how decades of music—influences spanning Tom Petty to The 1975—have refined his sound and voice.
D.K.’s latest work, the third EP “Darling Kiss Louder”, merges musical storytelling and Dante’s epic structure. It represents a deep dive into the Divine Comedy, the Seven Deadly Sins, and themes of social media, consumerism, and the promise of a modern renaissance. Tune in as he breaks down how each single aligns with a particular sin—like “loveseeking” (greed) and “stop” (gluttony)—and how that framework shapes not just the music, but the visual narrative that accompanies it.
During the conversation, D.K. opens up about the pressures of the digital age—platforms that reward consumerism (“It’s impossible not to think about it”)—and how these dynamics inform his lyrics and visuals. He explains his creative process, which blends raw intuition, collaboration with producer Bruce Lowe, and the insistence on strict deadlines to polish a song until it feels complete. 
An emotional highlight of the episode is D.K.’s candid discussion of imposter syndrome. He recalls “grinding through” sessions, self‑doubt, and the moment he finally knows a track is release‑ready: when it clicks emotionally and withstands his own critical ear (“I think it’s just a matter of grinding through”) .
We also dive into the importance of music videos in storytelling. With skills gained from running a visual campaign team, D.K. crafts videos that are not just promotional, but cinematic reflections of each song’s sin and theme. He teases an upcoming long‑form video piece that will bind the EP’s visuals into a cohesive narrative .
The conversation shifts to live performance, including his second annual Gemini Ball at Bowery Electric in NYC. He explains how live shows are a vital connection to his audience, and previews future plans for more concerts and collaborations with artists he admires.
Finally, D.K. reveals his dream collaborators and where he’s headed next—continuing to expand his music career, visual storytelling, and perhaps launching a renaissance of independent, thematically rich artistry.
Packed with depth, humor, and raw honesty—this episode of The Hang is a must-watch for music fans, indie creators, and anyone curious about how ancient literature meets modern music. Dive in, enjoy—and don’t stop at the surface. 
#DKLyons #TheHangPodcast #DivineComedyMusic #IndieArtistInterview #CreativeProcess
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Tuesday Oct 07, 2025

In this episode of The Hang! on Almost Famous Magazine, host Scott Saldinger welcomes Chicago-based progressive rock band The Cyberiam for a deep and engaging conversation. Featuring Keith Semple (vocals/guitar), Tommy Murray (drums), Frank Lucas (keyboards), and new bassist/vocalist Tom Heslin, the band shares exciting updates about their evolving sound, new singles, and upcoming performances.
The Cyberiam talk about the creative spark behind their latest singles, “Endless Whispers” and “Nine Lives.” From lyrical inspiration rooted in current affairs and personal philosophy to intricate drum patterns, soaring solos, and collaborative writing sessions, the band explains how these tracks mark a new chapter in their sonic evolution. They also reveal how the addition of Tom Heslin revitalized their dynamic, making “Nine Lives” his official introduction to fans.
Keith, Tommy, Frank, and Tom reflect on the challenges and joys of progressive rock: complex arrangements, live visuals synced to every beat, and crafting setlists that keep audiences guessing. The band emphasizes the importance of fan support, especially through physical media, announcing their first-ever Best Of CD that includes the two new singles—available only at live shows and on Bandcamp.
Listeners get rare insights into their influences, with nods to David Bowie, John Entwistle, Chris Squire, Tony Levin, Geddy Lee, Bryan Adams, Stewart Copeland, and Guthrie Govan. The members open up about their dream collaborations, from Peter Gabriel and Matt Bellamy to Dave Matthews and beyond, showing just how diverse their musical roots are.
The conversation also highlights the technical side of their journey. Keith candidly discusses the band’s decision to let Grammy-nominated producer Steve Hardy handle mixing duties for the new tracks, resulting in what he calls the definitive Cyberiam sound. They share the importance of keeping music alive through steady single releases rather than waiting years for a full album, ensuring fans always have something fresh to experience.
Beyond the music, The Hang! captures the personalities of The Cyberiam—playful, passionate, and committed to their art. They speak about past shows, unforgettable fan moments, and their dedication to connecting with listeners both on stage and online. With upcoming gigs at Progstock and Stage 119 in Elmhurst, Illinois, the band is poised for an electrifying season ahead.
This episode is a must-watch for progressive rock fans and anyone curious about how a modern prog band navigates creativity, technology, and the ever-changing music industry. Whether you’re new to The Cyberiam or a longtime fan, you’ll leave inspired by their dedication, artistry, and vision for the future of rock.
Support The Cyberiam by streaming their singles, buying merch, attending shows, and sharing their music. Because as the band says—art isn’t free, and supporting artists keeps the music alive.
#TheCyberiam #ProgRock #TheHangPodcast #EndlessWhispers #ninelivesinspace 
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#DavidBowie #ChrisSquire #JohnEntwistle #TonyLevin #KingCrimson #GeddyLee #TheWho #DreamTheater #Tool #PinkFloyd #Genesis #Rush #ELP #Muse #PeterGabriel #DaveMatthews #BryanAdams #StewartCopeland #ThePolice #GuthrieGovan #StevenWilson #FlyingColors #SpocksBeard #ColinHay #LadyGaga #BensonBoone #ChapelRowan #SabrinaCarpenter #SouthernEmpire #TypoNegative #Ministry #KMFDM #LedZeppelin
 

Thursday Oct 02, 2025

In this episode of The Hang! from Almost Famous Magazine, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Billy Graziadei—better known as Billy Biohazard—the vocalist and guitarist of the legendary band Biohazard. As one of the pioneers of blending hardcore punk, heavy metal, and hip hop, Billy has spent decades shaping the sound of underground music while staying true to his Brooklyn roots and his belief in authenticity above all else.
Billy opens up about his early family influences, the impact of losing his mother at a young age, and how music became both an escape and a healing force. He shares how Biohazard’s groundbreaking sound was never a marketing strategy but a natural result of the environment—punk on one corner, hip hop on another, and metal in between. That raw mix created a style that continues to influence generations.
The conversation dives into Biohazard’s latest album, Divided We Fall, and how it reconnects with the band’s core energy from their 1990s heyday. Billy reflects on the advice of his late manager and mentor, whose words inspired the reunion of the original lineup. He emphasizes that imperfection gives music its soul, and that the energy of live performance—sweat, passion, and connection—is what keeps Biohazard vital even after decades.
Beyond the stage, Billy talks about his solo projects (BillyBio, Powerflo), his collaborations with Cypress Hill’s Sen Dog, and his passion for producing music. He also shares his entrepreneurial journey with Ghost Tequila, which has become a staple at music festivals like Punk Rock Bowling. For Billy, legacy isn’t about gold records—it’s about the impact on fans, the high-five moments on stage, and the authenticity that connects across generations.
From discussing mentorship, forgiveness, and the reunion with Evan Seinfeld, to the excitement of touring the U.S. for the first time in over 20 years, this episode captures the heart of an artist who refuses to compromise his passion. Billy also reveals dream collaborations, from Deftones and System of a Down to Nina Hagen and Suzi Sue, showing his deep respect for artists who carry the same raw energy.
Whether you’re a longtime Biohazard fan or new to their music, this episode delivers powerful stories about resilience, healing, legacy, and the undeniable energy that defines hardcore. As Billy says: “You either have it or you don’t.”Don’t miss this deep conversation about music, life, and the fire that keeps one of hardcore’s true pioneers pushing forward.
#BillyBiohazard #biohazard  #HardcorePunkMetal #DividedWeFall #thehangpodcast 
Instagram Pre- Order "Divided We Fall" VIP Upgrades and Tickets U.S. Store 
 #Powerflo #CypressHill #FearFactory #Onyx #Kiss #LedZeppelin #RollingStones #NeilYoung #Yes #EmersonLakeAndPalmer #TheBeatles #ElvisPresley #BlackSabbath #BeastieBoys #RunDMC #IronMaiden #AgnosticFront #CroMags #Squeeze #Anthrax #TypeONegative #Deftones #SystemOfADown #Exploited #Jinjer #SlaughterhouseLA #SuziSue #NinaHagen #BadBrains #WuTangClan #Soundgarden #Metallica #Slayer #Terror #Helmet #MazzyStar #Beowulf #SuicidalTendencies

Tuesday Sep 30, 2025

In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Simon Hanson, the long-time drummer of the legendary British band Squeeze, to explore his incredible journey as a musician, filmmaker, and creative innovator. From early dreams of becoming a pilot, cut short due to colorblindness, to finding his life’s calling behind the drum kit, Simon’s story is as inspiring as it is entertaining.
Simon reflects on his early influences, his unconventional left-handed drumming start, and the relentless drive that pushed him to London to chase his ambition of becoming a professional musician. His path wasn’t instant fame—it included wedding gigs, odd jobs, and years of grinding before his talent and persistence brought him into the orbit of Glenn Tilbrook and ultimately into Squeeze, one of the UK’s most enduring and beloved bands.The conversation dives into Squeeze’s timeless catalog, from Tempted to Black Coffee in Bed, and how the band’s music continues to connect across generations. Simon shares his perspective on why Squeeze resonates so deeply: the combination of Chris Difford’s storytelling lyrics with Glenn Tilbrook’s complex yet accessible melodies creates songs that feel familiar even to those who don’t immediately recognize the band name.
But Simon is far more than a drummer. He’s a filmmaker and video storyteller, whose creative evolution began with a simple flip camera given to him at an awards show. What started as tour diaries became a new artistic outlet. Today, Simon creates thought-provoking, experimental, and deeply personal videos using nothing more than his iPhone and laptop. He sees filmmaking not only as a way to document but as an art form intertwined with music—an extension of rhythm, emotion, and narrative.
Simon and Scott explore the democratization of art through the internet, where platforms like YouTube give artists direct access to audiences, bypassing the old music industry gatekeepers. Yet, Simon also speaks honestly about the challenges: oversaturation, algorithm battles, and the struggle for visibility. He likens releasing music today to “sitting in a farmer’s market stall” where audiences must seek you out—but when they do, magic can happen.
The episode also touches on Simon’s joy for drumming, the sense of community he finds in music, and how being part of a “safe gang” of musicians keeps him energized. Whether playing a small club with Glenn Tilbrook & The Fluffers or headlining festivals with Squeeze, Simon approaches each performance with gratitude and passion.He also opens up about his charity work and his belief that giving back creates ripples of positivity. Simon emphasizes that being kind and supportive within the artistic community not only helps others but also enriches one’s own creative journey.
Other highlights from the conversation include:
• Simon’s reflections on the changing music industry, from big-label budgets to today’s DIY ethos.
• His experimental green screen drumming films, where rhythm drives the visual narrative.
• The importance of storytelling in both music and film, citing inspirations like Tarantino and Chris Cunningham.
• His memories of working with bands like The Blessing and The Choir Boys, and filling in for friends on the road.
• His solo work including Songs from the Silver Box, created entirely on an iPad, and his dreams of returning to mixed-media drum-and-film projects.
• His admiration for artists like Peter Gabriel and experimental directors, as well as his curiosity about collaborating with visionaries who push boundaries.
Throughout the episode, Simon’s authenticity and humor shine through. He describes his creative process as messy but joyful, comparing editing videos to the same thrill as drumming live. His quote—“Music’s a safe gang”—perfectly encapsulates his outlook on art as a place of belonging and shared experience.
This is more than a drummer’s story. It’s a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the power of art to connect us in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Squeeze, a drummer seeking inspiration, or a creative navigating the digital age, Simon Hanson’s journey will leave you inspired.
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Hang for more deep-dive conversations with musicians and artists who shape our world.
#SimonHanson #squeeze #drummer #videomaker #thehangpodcast  @simonhansondrums  
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Friday Sep 26, 2025

Denver’s melodic punk force Record Thieves are back—bigger, louder, and more unstoppable than ever! In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger goes deep with Jim Wilcox (drums), Mike Waterhouse (vocals), Chad Gilbert (bass), and Erik Livesay (guitar) to unpack their explosive new album Tragic Company. From their early days and killer band chemistry to their evolution from Wasting Time, nothing is off the table. Hear how the pandemic reshaped their songwriting, why they still believe in the power of a full-length album, and the stories behind new anthems like “Cause and Effect” and “The Deep.” The band talks vinyl comebacks, dream collaborations, personal influences, and why supporting artists matters now more than ever. Whether you’re a die-hard punk fan or just love a great music story, this is a must-watch conversation packed with raw honesty, big laughs, and behind-the-scenes secrets. Hit play, crank it up, and stick around—this one’s a ride.
Tragic Company, the band's sophomore album, arrives September 26th  with a reinvigorated lineup featuring Jim Wilcox (drums), Allen White (guitar), Mike Waterhouse (vocals), Chad Gilbert (bass), and new guitarist  Erik Livesay.
#RecordThieves #MelodicPunk #thehangpodcast #denver 
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