The Hang! As Seen On Almost Famous Magazine!

Charlie Kerr’s Deep Dive into Hotel Mira’s Story, Mental Health & Musical Identity on The Hang!

In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Charlie Kerr, the dynamic frontman of the Canadian alternative rock band Hotel Mira, for an unfiltered and deeply personal conversation. Charlie opens up about his early life, marked by his parents’ divorce and a growing love for music that became both refuge and identity. Starting with childhood guitar lessons, he found structure and direction through live performance—something he describes as the heartbeat of his artistic expression. The interview traces the evolution of Hotel Mira from its former incarnation as JPNSGRLS into a band now known for its emotionally charged lyrics, high-octane shows, and genre-blurring sound that fuses garage rock, new wave, and indie pop.
Charlie discusses the creation of Hotel Mira’s defining tracks like “Perfectionism” and “I Am Not Myself,” shedding light on the personal struggles, anxieties, and resilience that inspired the songwriting. He talks candidly about mental health, shame, and the emotional labor that often underpins his most impactful lyrics. The band’s creative process, the contributions of key members like Clark Grieve, Mike Noble, and Cole George, and the chemistry they bring to both recording and live shows are also explored. Kerr credits musical legends like Kurt Cobain and David Bowie as influences, not only for their sonic innovation but also for their raw vulnerability—something Charlie himself leans into with every performance.
The conversation also looks forward. Charlie teases new music, reveals dream collaborators, and reaffirms Hotel Mira’s commitment to creating authentic, meaningful art. Whether reflecting on their early days, discussing the discipline of performing live, or diving into the emotional core of his lyrics, Charlie offers listeners a rare window into the soul of an artist who is constantly evolving. For fans of Hotel Mira and lovers of modern rock storytelling, this episode is a must-listen. 
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#HotelMira #CharlieKerr #TheHang #IndieRock #mentalhealthmusic 
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Mars Hendrik's Vision and Journey: Creating Auditory Journeys for Listeners on 'The Hang!'!

In this compelling episode of "The Hang," host Scott Saldinger sits down with the talented bilingual singer-songwriter Mars Hendrik. Born in Costa Rica and now based in Connecticut, Mars shares his inspiring journey from his early musical beginnings to signing with Black Barrel Records and releasing his latest single, "The Jump."
Early Musical Influences and Journey:
Mars delves into his formative years in Costa Rica, where he began playing music at the age of 13. Influenced by a diverse array of artists, including Bob Marley and Blink-182, Mars developed a unique sound that blends various genres. He emphasizes how music became his universal language, allowing him to communicate emotions and stories that transcend cultural boundaries.
'The Jump' and Its Significance:
Discussing his latest single, "The Jump," Mars explains that the song symbolizes the act of letting go and trusting the universe. He shares insights into the creative process behind the track and how it reflects his personal experiences and philosophical outlook on life.
Upcoming Album 'Karma':
Mars provides a sneak peek into his forthcoming album, "Karma," describing it as a collection of songs that explore themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the interconnectedness of life experiences. He highlights how the album continues his tradition of blending genres to create a rich, auditory journey for listeners.
Motivational Speaking and Live Performances:
Beyond music, Mars discusses his role as a motivational speaker. He shares how his live performances are designed to be immersive experiences that inspire and uplift audiences. His goal is to create a space where music and motivational messages converge to foster personal growth and connection.
Future Aspirations:
Looking ahead, Mars expresses his desire to collaborate with artists like BØRNS and to embark on tours that bring his music to a global audience. He emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and staying true to one's artistic vision.
#MarsHendrik #BilingualArtist #IndependentMusic #thejump #genreblending

Ellie Blackbird, Pickle & Clod Gomez Dive into the Diskount Vodka Story on The Hang!

In this explosive episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Pueblo, Colorado’s up‑and‑coming punk rock trio Diskount Vodka—Ellie Blackbird (guitar & vocals), Pickle (drums), and Clod Gomez (bass). The band opens up about their musical roots, influences, songwriting process, and how they chose their cheeky yet memorable name.
We learn how each member came to punk: Pickle recounts starting guitar at 12 before switching to drums at 17, inspired by punk legends like the Ramones, Gorilla Biscuits, Jeff Dahl, and psychobilly icons. Ellie, the band’s primary songwriter, shares her early exposure to music from her dad and how it shaped her fiery, socially aware lyricism. Cuauhtli (Clod) reveals how seeing his older brother play inspired him to join the band and the importance of supporting local Pueblo talent.
The conversation gives listeners a vivid snapshot of Pueblo’s punk scene—mostly dominated by metalheads, but with a growing DIY network centered around venues like The Bomb Shelter. Ellie emphasizes her mission to empower women in a male‑dominated genre: “I want to make a change with that”, she says. The trio reflects on standout performances—from New York to Massachusetts and their appearance at Punk Rock Bowling.
You’ll also hear the origin story behind the name “Diskount Vodka”—how a casual mention in Texas sounded so good, they made it their identity. The band teases upcoming releases: a new album (working title Punk Salad) slated for February, recent singles like Time is Now and Victim, and a split seven‑inch with Tv Tragedy framed for January on Split Personality Records.
As they reflect on past shows, Photo Gallery sessions in Pueblo, and their creative ambitions, listeners are invited to bring them to your city. Packed with insider stories, punk attitude, and raw authenticity, this episode is perfect for fans of punk rock, DIY music culture, and female‑led punk voices.
#DiskountVodka #PuebloPunk #WomenInPunk #DIYScene #PunkRockInterview #thehangpodcast 
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Hailey Hermida on ‘Sad Boy Sh*t’ , Musical Reinvention and Finding Her True Sound on "The Hang!"

In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with rising singer-songwriter and actress Hailey Hermida for an honest, energized conversation about her latest single, “Sad Boy Shit”, her evolving sound, and the lessons she’s learned on her artistic journey. Hailey opens up about how music first found her—through Disney soundtracks—and how that early love evolved into a powerful blend of pop, emo, and alternative rock. She credits Queen and Paramore as pivotal influences, shaping both her sonic identity and stage presence, while producer Riley Urick has helped bring her evolving vision to life in the studio.
Together, Scott and Hailey unpack the emotional core of “Sad Boy Shit,” a song that boldly calls out emotional manipulation and encourages self-empowerment. She reflects on the meaning behind lyrics like, “Don’t be hard on yourself,” and “You just gotta keep going,” as personal mantras that have fueled her perseverance in both music and life. They explore how Hailey’s sound is moving toward a more energetic, electrifying vibe, fusing alt-rock roots with emotionally honest storytelling. From discussing the making of her upcoming album to her love of Chili’s Tex-Mex and her earliest vocal lessons at age five, Hailey brings vulnerability and confidence in equal measure.
Throughout the episode, Hailey emphasizes the importance of pushing past fear and self-doubt, especially in a competitive industry. She offers insights into the indie spirit she started with, her creative process, and the importance of having a team that supports and challenges her. The interview also gives fans a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the “Sad Boy Shit” music video, directed by Julian Valdivieso and produced by Print Night Productions, which complements the raw energy of the track with a vibrant visual style.
Whether you're an aspiring musician, a fan of emotionally charged pop-rock, or simply someone who values honest conversations about creativity and growth, this episode delivers both inspiration and entertainment. Tune in to hear Hailey Hermida’s candid take on finding her voice, embracing imperfection, and staying true to herself in an industry that doesn’t always make it easy.
#HaileyHermida, #SadBoyShit, #PopRock, #TheHangPodcast, #musicinterview 
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Chris Holt Shares How MTV & Self‑Teaching Led Him ‘Across the Milky Way’ to The Eagles - The Hang!

In this episode of 'The Hang!", host Scott Saldinger welcomes Christopher Holt, celebrated Dallas guitarist and the newest touring member of The Eagles, for a wide-ranging conversation that dives deep into his musical journey, songwriting process, and long-awaited solo album "Across the Milky Way". Chris reflects on the early influences that shaped his love of music, including his parents' eclectic vinyl collection and the cultural tidal wave of MTV in the 1980s. A self-taught guitarist, Chris shares how mimicking his favorite guitarists like David Gilmour and Mike Campbell helped him develop his own musical voice—long before he ever stepped into a formal lesson.
Chris walks us through the making of "Across the Milky Way", his first solo album in years and a labor of love born from pandemic isolation. He describes it as a "kitchen sink" album, recorded entirely at home and layered with harmonies, vintage tones, and real instruments. Some tracks came quickly—like “That Magic Feeling,” written in just five minutes—while others took years to finalize. One standout, the humorous “Hearing Aid,” includes a trumpet cameo from his teenage son Peyton, capturing Chris’s playful side and family roots. The album reflects a desire to slow down the listening experience, encouraging fans to “give it some time to sink in.”
Chris also opens up about life as a performer, from navigating the vibrant Dallas music scene to stepping into the massive shoes of Steuart Smith as a touring member of The Eagles. He discusses the surreal experience of playing iconic guitar solos alongside Joe Walsh and Don Felder’s former parts in venues like Las Vegas’s Sphere, where the scale and acoustics are unlike anything he's experienced. Despite the pressure, he describes every night on stage as “a dream come true.” Throughout the episode, Chris emphasizes the importance of collaboration—whether with long-time friends like Mike Daane, Paul Averitt, Eric Neal or with legends like Don Henley—and how the support of talented peers brings his vision to life.
From songwriting struggles to euphoric stage moments, Chris Holt’s story is a compelling reminder of why artists create in the first place. Whether you’re a fan of The Eagles, a student of the guitar, or simply curious about the intersection of humility and musical genius, this conversation delivers. Tune in to hear how one of Dallas’s most respected musicians rose from local gigs to global arenas, all while staying true to his roots, his sense of humor, and his deep love for the craft.
 @chrisholt7421  
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#ChrisHolt #AcrossTheMilkyWay#thehangpodcast #theeagles #TheHangPodcast  #dallas #XTC

Chandler Dozier Talks Songwriting, Influences & “Let Me Be” on The Hang!

In this deeply moving and insightful episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with rising country artist Chandler Dozier—shedding light on the personal journey of this talented singer-songwriter from Troy, North Carolina, to the heart of Nashville.
Chandler opens up about his earliest memories with music—how movie soundtracks stirred something within him, and how a childhood trip to the Country Music Hall of Fame ignited a lifelong passion for the classic, neo-traditional country sound. Raised on a diet of Bakersfield grit, Appalachian bluegrass, and storytelling giants like Dwight Yoakam, Merle Haggard, and Buck Owens, Chandler’s path led him to Nashville with a singular mission: to carve out a space that feels authentic and fresh.
Talking about his songwriting, Chandler emphasizes solitude and sincerity. “I usually write alone,” he says, underscoring the importance of personal reflection in crafting honest, emotionally resonant songs. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, he pushes back against the common practice of releasing singles—“I personally hate the idea of just singles”—and instead longs to build an enduring body of work.
In the vibrant energy of Nashville’s honky-tonks, Chandler and his band bring that neo-traditional sound to life—complete with train beats, shuffles, heavy fiddle, pedal steel, and twangy Telecaster guitar. He speaks excitedly about performing live and how that experience helps him polish not just his music, but his authenticity.
The conversation also centers around Chandler’s single, “Let Me Be,” which reflects his soulful storytelling rooted in emotional truth. He shares that this release isn’t just another track—it’s an invitation to listeners into his world, bridging his North Carolina roots and Nashville dreams.
Looking ahead, Chandler is determined to channel his creativity and emotional investments into a full EP—not just standalone tracks. He also expresses a heartfelt desire to collaborate with his musical idol, Dwight Yoakam, calling it a dream of weaving tradition with ongoing evolution in country music.
This episode of The Hang is more than an interview—it’s an intimate look at what it takes to stay true to your sound, your story, and your future in today’s music industry.
#ChandlerDozier #NeoTraditionalCountry #NashvilleSongwriting #CountryMusicJourney #Nashville #CountryMusician #TheHangPodcast
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Wild Wild Wets on Time Mutations Album & Creative Process on The Hang!

In this compelling episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Mike Turi and Taejon Romanik of San Diego-based psychedelic rock band Wild Wild Wets to explore the vibrant world behind their latest album, Time Mutations. Known for their immersive soundscapes and genre-bending energy, Wild Wild Wets share the creative process that shaped their most cohesive work yet. The conversation traces the band’s origin story, beginning with a chance meeting that sparked a musical journey now over a decade strong. From punk to ambient and world music, their influences come through in layered arrangements and cinematic textures that define their signature style.
Mike and Taejon dive into the making of Time Mutations, a record they describe as “an audio panorama” and “almost a concept album.” Recorded live in a single room with minimal isolation, the album maintains a raw, human feel that sets it apart. The band emphasizes the importance of sequencing and sonic flow, explaining how this album represents a more deliberate vision than previous releases. Tracks like “High Rider” embody a character-driven narrative and vivid sound design, while others explore themes of isolation, transformation, and disintegration—all woven into a sonic story arc.
Rooted in San Diego’s underground scene, Wild Wild Wets talk about their involvement in building local creative culture through live shows and DIY events like the San Diego Freak Out festival. Their sense of community extends into innovative collaborations, including a unique album release partnership with Fuzz Coffee Roasters. Together, they developed a special Guatemalan blend sold alongside limited-edition splatter vinyl—creating a full sensory “sip and listen” experience. This creative crossover reflects the band's commitment to making each album release personal and immersive.
Looking ahead, Mike and Taejon discuss their desire to tour the East Coast and dream of future collaborations with artists like Beck and Josh Homme. The episode showcases their artistic growth—from early jam sessions to the carefully layered, high-fidelity recordings of Time Mutations. With powerful quotes like “We had more of a vision this time” and “This album is almost a concept record,” it’s clear that Wild Wild Wets are carving out their space as one of San Diego’s most dynamic and forward-thinking psych-rock acts.
Whether you're a fan of experimental music, conceptual albums, or just love discovering new sonic experiences, this episode delivers deep insight into the creative mind of a band that thrives on evolution, energy, and authenticity.
#wildwildwets #TimeMutations #psychedelicrock #TheHangInterview #SanDiegoMusic
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Dan Pallotta on Songwriting, Life, Why Acoustic Guitar Matters & Bruce Springsteen The Hang!

In this powerful episode of 'The Hang!', host Scott Saldinger sits down with musician, philanthropist, and author Dan Pallotta to explore his return to music after decades of transformative work in the nonprofit world. Known for creating the AIDS Rides and Breast Cancer 3-Day walks, Pallotta shares how a musical upbringing—centered around singing cowboy songs and Irish ballads with his mother and sister—laid the foundation for his deep emotional connection to music. After years spent raising hundreds of millions for charity and reshaping how we view philanthropy, a personal health crisis prompted Dan to return to the acoustic guitar, reigniting his first love: songwriting. In this heartfelt conversation, Dan opens up about how today’s digital streaming culture has diminished the emotional depth once found in acoustic music, and why he believes live performance is the most honest and human form of musical connection.
The episode dives into his creative process, with Dan describing how his songs often come “from the ether,” inspired by nature, everyday encounters, and the complexity of aging and reflection. His recent songs, including the emotionally resonant “Working Man’s Son,” pay tribute to his late father and explore themes of legacy, identity, and hope. He discusses his aspirations to create a one-person show that weaves storytelling with music, and shares a dream collaboration: performing with Bruce Springsteen, whose authenticity and lyrical strength he deeply admires. Throughout the conversation, Dan emphasizes the importance of supporting artists in a world that often prioritizes clicks over craft. He argues that music has the power to heal, to inspire, and to connect us—and that now, more than ever, it’s vital that we show up for the people who make it. Equal parts reflective and inspiring, this episode of 'The Hang!' offers a window into the heart of a man who’s dedicated his life to changing the world—and is now using music to do it all over again.
#DanPallotta #AcousticRevival #SongwritingJourney #LiveMusicMatters #TheHangPodcast #JohnDenver #BruceSpringsteen
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00:00 Introduction to Dan Pallotta01:05 The Genesis of Musical Inspiration05:16 The Evolution of Acoustic Guitar in Music09:09 The Impact of Technology on Music Consumption12:54 Transitioning from Politics to Music20:14 Rediscovering Music After Philanthropy23:52 The Depth of Life Experience in Songwriting27:43 Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life31:32 Future Projects and Collaborations36:30 The Importance of Live Music Experiences

Building A Band in Nashville: Jake Ziegler’s Journey & Insights on 'The Hang!'

Join host Scott Saldinger in an in-depth chat with Nashville-based musician Jake Ziegler on The Hang, where Jake opens up about the winding path that led to his debut EP, Burn Away, and his evolution as a songwriter and bandleader in Music City.
Born into a musical family, Jake discovered his passion early—but it wasn’t until he connected with blues rock later in life that his sound fully emerged. He credits his first guitar teacher for shaping his raw talent. “I just need something to write about,” Jake shares, explaining how lyrics flow organically—from personal narratives to pure creative impulses.
In this candid interview, Jake reflects on the roots of his songwriting, the spontaneity that fuels each composition, and the themes that resonate most with his audience. He dives into the unique advantages of Nashville’s tight-knit musical community—mentorship, collaboration, and mutual support—and how that played a vital role in building his band with friends and local talent. “I just want like my friends to play,” he laughs, describing how gathering musicians to jam ultimately became his performing ensemble.
One standout memory? His annual birthday jam—a celebration spotlighting local acts, fostering new connections, and encapsulating Jake’s belief in supporting emerging artists. He also delves into his favorite guitar setup, influenced by classic rock legends, and how his rig helps bring his blues-infused tone to life on stage.
Looking ahead, Jake teases plans for a full-length album, sharing his excitement: “I want to make a full‑length album now.” The conversation highlights the importance of community backing and industry support for independent artists as he transitions toward that next milestone.
Whether you’re an aspiring musician seeking insight into songwriting spontaneity, fans of Nashville’s vibrant scene, or just curious about the journey behind Burn Away, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into Jake Ziegler’s musical universe.
#JakeZiegler #NashvilleMusic #SongwritingTips #BurnAwayEP #IndieArtistJourney #Nashville
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The Lightning Struck: How Toronto’s Indie Rock Rebels Formed Post-Pandemic on 'The Hang!'

Welcome to The Hang with your host Scott Saldinger! In this electrifying episode, Scott sits down with Loren Davie and Blitz (Michael Kaler) of The Lightning Struck, a rising indie rock band based in Toronto. Together, they dive deep into the origins of the band, their personal musical journeys, and the creative vision behind their newest album, Century Storm. Loren, who grew up in a musical household and spent two decades immersed in New York City’s post-punk scene, shares how influences like Velvet Underground, Sonic Youth, and the Ramones helped shape his style. Blitz, equally thoughtful, explains how his love for literature and science fiction has informed the band’s lyrical themes and sonic storytelling.
Formed in the wake of the pandemic, The Lightning Struck came together organically when Loren reconnected with friends Michael Milanetti and Blitz. Along with drummer Dan Craig, the band officially launched in spring 2022, drawing from past projects like Ron Hawkins & The Rusty Nails. Their debut album Century Storm features 12 carefully curated tracks selected from 17 recordings. The duo breaks down the song "In Her Dreams," which was inspired by a story by sci-fi writer Fritz Leiber, revealing the literary and emotional depth behind their work.
Throughout the conversation, themes of alienation and hope emerge as driving forces in their songwriting, reflecting the turbulent times that gave birth to their music. The band’s sound is a unique fusion of grunge, progressive rock, and classic NYC underground, crafted for listeners who crave substance and intentionality—not background noise. They discuss the challenges of operating as an independent band, from self-promotion to funding and touring, and emphasize the importance of community and listener support in sustaining independent music.
Looking ahead, The Lightning Struck have exciting plans in motion, with new singles and additional recording sessions slated for later this year. The episode is peppered with moments of candor and humor as Loren and Blitz share their hopes, victories, and the pure joy of making music together. As Blitz puts it, “It’s a win,” and Loren adds, “It’s been super fun.” Whether you're an indie rock enthusiast, a sci-fi lover, or just curious about the realities of being an independent artist today, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the creative spirit behind The Lightning Struck.
#CenturyStormAlbum #TheLightningStruck #IndieRockInterview #SupportIndependentMusic #torontomusicscene #toronto #canada 
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