The Hang! As Seen On Almost Famous Magazine!

n this special episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Susan Proctor, the CEO and founder of Punk Rock Gives Back, a nonprofit built on the belief that punk rock isn’t just music—it’s community, compassion, and collective action. What began as a response to the isolation of COVID has quickly become one of the punk scene’s most inspiring charitable forces, supporting dozens of causes while uplifting artists, musicians, and nonprofits throughout the year.
Susan shares the deeply personal story behind her journey into punk rock, a path shaped by her son, her search for belonging, and the transformative sense of unity she discovered at shows, festivals, and long lines outside venues. As she explains, punk has always been a place where people from all backgrounds come together with the shared belief that the world can be better—and that we each have a role to play in making it happen. This spirit is the foundation of Punk Rock Gives Back, which exists to “support everyone” by providing practical help, fundraising support, and charitable platforms to both artists and organizations.
The episode dives into the excitement surrounding the December 13th Charity Show at Alex’s Bar in Long Beach, a free 21+ matinee event featuring Empired, The Jack Knives, Spark of Life, Rudy Nuno, Unsound Sunday, and a special DJ set from Danny Thompson of Face to Face. Alongside the live performances is the 3rd Annual Ornament Auction, showcasing more than 75 mini-masterpieces created by artists, musicians, photographers, and designers from across the punk community. Each ornament is linked to a charity chosen by the artist, with 100% of proceeds going directly to the cause—all fees covered by Punk Rock Gives Back so every dollar makes an impact.
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In this episode of The Hang! with host Scott Saldinger, Nashville musician Dustin Sellers opens up about his creative journey, his evolution as an artist, and the emotional stories that fuel his music. Known both under his own name and through his alter ego Sad Bachelor, Dustin brings a unique blend of heartfelt lyricism, indie rock grit, and orchestral depth to the stage. His latest album, Sad Bachelor, marks a turning point in his career—one that allows him to explore new musical territory while embracing vulnerability in a way that connects deeply with listeners.
Dustin reflects on his early beginnings in a small Tennessee town, where his love for music was sparked by hearing a friend play a Collective Soul riff at church and learning his first guitar chords from his grandmother, who once sang in a duet group with her husband. He shares stories of being influenced by artists like Whitney Houston, Journey, and Alabama, along with his childhood admiration for Michael Jackson. Later, during his time at MTSU’s recording industry program, he developed a deep appreciation for the layered harmonies of The Beach Boys, the melodic brilliance of Paul McCartney and John Lennon, and the raw energy of 90s icons like Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, and Alice in Chains. He also found inspiration in the musical evolution of Silverchair and the timeless crooning of legends such as Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra.
Before launching Sad Bachelor, Dustin spent nearly a decade fronting his rock band Overzealous, touring across the U.S. and honing his craft through live performance. Later, he experimented with solo projects that leaned more acoustic and orchestral, including the piano-driven Prominent Keys EP. With Sad Bachelor, he blends both worlds—rock power and cinematic orchestration—into a cohesive, emotionally charged album. Key tracks like “Fall Down,” “The Answer,” “The Wrong and the Right,” and the reimagined “Sweet Reverie” highlight his ability to fuse soaring melodies with raw honesty, giving listeners a window into his heart and his artistry.
Dustin also opens up about the deeply personal experiences that shaped this new chapter. After enduring back-to-back losses—including the passing of his father, grandparents, beloved pets, and the tragic death of his former partner’s siblings—music became his therapy, a way to process grief and find purpose. The persona of Sad Bachelor was born from this period, inspired by Hank Williams Sr.’s “Luke the Drifter” project and artists like Jack White who reinvent themselves through different musical identities. What started as a way to explore pain and nostalgia has since evolved into a character that gives Dustin new creative freedom.
The conversation also touches on his relationship with his girlfriend, whose support and artistic vision have played a pivotal role in helping him move forward personally and creatively. As a graphic designer, she has helped shape the visual identity of Sad Bachelor, adding layers of style and storytelling that complement the music. Dustin also discusses the realities of being a modern musician in a digital world, where streaming platforms and social media metrics often overshadow artistic depth. He shares the irony of how a lighthearted video of a broken ear monitor went viral, while songs he poured his heart into sometimes take longer to find their audience.
Looking ahead, Dustin is excited about the possibilities for 2026, including more live shows and festival appearances. He recently opened for The Verve Pipe, a band that influenced him early in his career, and looks forward to expanding his reach with his current bandmates—who now help him bring his recordings to life on stage. He’s also eager to begin writing new material from scratch, this time with more collaboration, and is open to exploring new directions for the Sad Bachelor persona, or even evolving into something entirely new, like a “Side Bachelorette.”
This is a conversation about more than music—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and the courage to transform pain into art. If you love artists who create with heart, soul, and cinematic flair, this episode of The Hang! is one you won’t want to miss.
#DustinSellers #SadBachelor #NashvilleMusic #IndieRock #thehangpodcast 
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In this episode of The Hang! on Almost Famous Magazine, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Sam Hoyos, the passionate lead singer of Playing Dead, a six-piece power-pop rock band from West Babylon, New York that’s carving out its own space in the indie and punk scenes. Sam shares his raw and unfiltered musical journey, starting with childhood memories of hearing the La Bamba soundtrack at a flea market and recording a TV trailer just to capture Jimi Hendrix’s “Purple Haze.” He reflects on how Nirvana became the spark that made him believe he could play guitar, recalling the moment he first tried out the simple bar chords of Smells Like Teen Spirit as a teenager in the early 90s. Along the way, he draws inspiration from bands like Paramore, Hayley Williams, Korn, Slipknot, Metallica, Megadeth, Smashing Pumpkins, Billy Corgan, Yes, Genesis, Pixies, Hot Water Music, Rush, Iron Maiden, The Get Up Kids, and The Rentals, blending these influences into Playing Dead’s unique sound.
Sam talks about how Playing Dead came together not from chasing fame, but from a genuine desire to make music with friends. Bassist Dave, inspired by Jason Black of Hot Water Music and legends like Geddy Lee and Steve Harris, provides the foundation. Drummer Mike Yarravina, a veteran of the Long Island band CMR, brings both technical chops and groove. Keyboardist Jason, formerly of Go Big, added new depth with synth textures that reminded Sam of his love for bands like The Get Up Kids and The Rentals. Desiree Freeman adds her own magic, taking lead on their new single Invisible Girl, while guitarist Frank from Morning Fuzz—a band Sam praises as sounding like Foo Fighters mixed with Phantom Planet—rounds out the lineup. Sam even likens Frank to the “Richie Sambora to my Jon Bon Jovi.”
The band’s approach is refreshingly direct: “We play music and record albums. And we play shows. The end.” Rather than chasing traditional album cycles, they’ve embraced a modern release strategy—dropping singles one at a time to grab listeners’ attention in a world full of endless content. Their 2024 releases like Too Far From Me and Invisible Girl earned them spins on SiriusXM Faction, proving that even DIY bands can break through when the music connects. Sam explains the strategy: “Every couple of months you’re like, can I borrow your ear for three minutes? You make everything as good as possible and hope it connects.”
The conversation also dives into the challenges and opportunities of today’s music industry. Both Scott and Sam discuss how technology has changed the way fans consume music—moving from full album listening sessions, like with Smashing Pumpkins’ “Siamese Dream,” to a shuffle-driven culture where singles dominate. They also explore the importance of grassroots promotion in the streaming era. Sam emphasizes, “The most powerful thing I could think of is word of mouth. If I hear something that I love, I’ll text it to my friends… that’s power right there.”
Outside of Playing Dead, Sam co-hosts the Red River Podcast with his friend Brian, a show he describes as a “pop culture buffet.” Covering everything from music and movies to cult classics like The Mutilator and Strange Brew, the podcast has featured legendary guests such as Rudy Sarzo of Quiet Riot and Ozzy Osbourne, as well as filmmaker Steve De Jarnatt, known for Miracle Mile and Cherry 2000. It’s a true celebration of art, creativity, and the cultural moments that shape us.
When asked about his dream collaboration, Sam doesn’t hesitate: Jack Antonoff of Bleachers, the New Jersey native and Grammy-winning producer behind hits with Taylor Swift and Lorde. Sam calls him a “musical f**ing genius”* and recalls the surreal experience of Playing Dead sharing the bill with Bleachers at the Adjacent Festival in Atlantic City.
This episode is a candid, funny, and inspiring look at what it means to build a band out of friendship, passion, and a love for melody. If you’re a fan of Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Foo Fighters, or the New York indie-punk scene, you won’t want to miss this conversation. As Scott reminds us, supporting artists is more important than ever in today’s digital landscape—so check out Playing Dead on Bandcamp, go see them live if you’re in the tri-state area, and most importantly, spread the word. Because in the end, it’s the conversations we share and the connections we make that keep music alive.
 
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#PlayingDead #TheHangPodcast #Nirvana #HayleyWilliams #Paramore #Korn #Slipknot #JimiHendrix #Metallica #Megadeth #SmashingPumpkins #BillyCorgan #Yes #Genesis #HotWaterMusic #JasonBlack #Rush #IronMaiden #SteveHarris #GeddyLee #CMR #GoBig #TheGetUpKids #TheRentals #MorningFuzz #FooFighters #PhantomPlanet #TheStrokes #MoldyPeaches #Interpol #CompanyFlow #RunTheJewels #MachineGunKelly #RickBeato #ProfessorOfRock #RudySarzo #QuietRiot #OzzyOsbourne #SteveDeJarnatt #Cherry2000

In this special episode of The Hang!, host Scott Saldinger sits down with the incomparable Monique Powell, founder and lead vocalist of Save Ferris, for one of her most personal and revealing conversations yet. With the band launching their festive Happy Skalidaze Tour, releasing a limited-edition 7” vinyl single featuring Get Dancing and Ooh Ooh Rudy, and preparing to drop their first full-length album in early 2026, Monique gives fans an intimate look at the next era of Save Ferris.
Monique dives into the emotional journey of bringing Save Ferris back to life—a journey filled with resistance, doubt, and unexpected challenges. She shares openly that many people did not want the band to return, and some even hoped she would fail. Yet she emphasizes that far more fans wanted Save Ferris to come back, and it was that unwavering support that fueled her determination to push forward, reclaim the band’s legacy, and take it to places it had never been before.
Fans will hear Monique discuss the creative process behind the upcoming album, produced with Michael Bradford. She describes exploring new sonic territory while staying rooted in the spirit and identity of Save Ferris. Tracks like Lights Out in the Reptile House and Get Dancing offer a preview of the freshness and energy driving this new musical chapter. While the album title remains undecided, she hints at early concepts that may still find their way into the final release.
The conversation also traces Monique’s lifelong relationship with music—from early exposure to ska and punk through her sister, to her classical vocal training, to the vibrant Orange County ska scene of the ’90s that shaped Save Ferris’ rise. She recalls surreal performance moments, from massive festival crowds to sharing stages with artists she idolized growing up. These memories highlight the sweeping, fast-moving whirlwind the band experienced during their breakout years.
Today, Monique reflects on how the landscape of music and fan connection has evolved. She talks about the joy of seeing a new generation discover ska, especially young fans who bring handmade gifts, share emotional stories, and celebrate the music with the same passion she once had as a teenager. She also discusses how digital access has transformed the relationship between artists and audiences, creating more opportunities for authentic connection.
Monique opens up about the emotional resilience required to navigate the modern music world—especially her decision to distance herself from social media for her mental health. Instead, she focuses on creativity, live performance, and meaningful connection. She also teases her upcoming YouTube project, Powell Tools, where she will explore mental health, creativity, personal growth, and the tools she used to overcome her darkest moments.
From ska revival roots to a powerful 2026 comeback, this conversation is honest, inspiring, and filled with the spirit that has made Monique Powell one of ska’s most enduring voices. Don’t miss this deep, heartfelt look at her journey—and everything fans need to know about the Happy Skalidaze Tour, the new vinyl, and the highly anticipated Save Ferris full-length album arriving next year.
#SaveFerris #MoniquePowell #SkaMusic #interview 
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The Hang! Podcast – Presented by Almost Famous Magazine
https://www.almostfamousmagazine.com
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

In this episode of The Hang! host Scott Saldinger sits down with Analog Amara, one of the most dynamic new rock bands emerging from the Denver scene. Featuring Amanda Hawkins (vocals), Jim Wilcox (drums, formerly of Authority Zero and Record Thieves), and Max Power (guitarist and rocket scientist by day), Analog Amara has quickly carved a reputation for blending fragile beauty with explosive force. Their songs drift from shimmering ambience to riff-heavy catharsis, creating a sonic tension that mirrors the highs and lows of lived experience.
The Birth of Analog Amara
The band’s story began with Amanda and Max playing together in a cover band called Bar Chord Bangers. Their chemistry grew when they collaborated with Jim’s project Record Thieves. What started as Amanda bringing acoustic emo-inspired songs quickly evolved into a full creative partnership. Writing together felt natural and effortless, with egos set aside in favor of one central question: Does this song sound awesome?
Songwriting as Collaboration
Unlike many bands where one member dominates, Analog Amara thrives on shared creativity. Amanda contributes lyric-driven emotional intensity. Max provides technical guitar work influenced by both Tom DeLonge’s melodic instincts and Slash’s fiery solos. Jim anchors everything with his punk-shaped drumming and producer’s ear, ensuring each track has clarity and punch.
The process is simple yet effective: someone brings a song idea, the others finish it. Amanda’s acoustic sketches become layered rock epics. Max’s riffs inspire fuzzy shoegaze arrangements. Jim’s older demos, like Saving Grace, find new life with Amanda’s soaring melodies. Together, they shape dynamic songs that balance restraint with urgency.
Remote Recording Across States
Though Amanda and Jim are based in Colorado, Max now lives in Florida. The band embraces technology, using shared Logic Pro sessions via iCloud to record parts remotely. Despite being miles apart, they achieve a “live studio” warmth in their EP, avoiding the sterile feel that plagues many modern home recordings.
Musical Influences
Analog Amara draws inspiration from across genres.
Amanda cites Paramore and Spiritbox for dynamics and lyrical honesty.Max finds influence in Manchester Orchestra’s ability to swing from quiet vulnerability to explosive power.
Jim credits The Mars Volta for teaching him that music can be unpredictable, shifting from silence to chaos in a heartbeat.
Their collective influences also include Deftones, Smashing Pumpkins, Peter Gabriel, Bjork, Massive Attack, Portishead, Sneaker Pimps, Morchiba, Billy Talent, and ska/punk roots like Real Big Fish. The result is a sound that feels familiar yet entirely fresh.
Looking Ahead: Covers, Singles & Touring
Analog Amara isn’t standing still. With their debut EP released, they’re already preparing two new singles and a daring cover of a 1970s classic reimagined in a swinging 6/8 groove. Beyond studio work, the band is eager to bring their music to the stage. Amanda calls live performance her “happy place,” and the band is strategizing content creation, social media engagement, and eventually touring in the U.S. and Europe.
Building a Real Fan Base
Rather than chasing hollow metrics, Analog Amara is focused on cultivating genuine fans. They’ve hired a UK-based PR team, recognizing that European audiences still embrace rock music at scale. Their goal is simple: connect with listeners authentically through songs, live shows, and creative online content.
Dream Collaborations
When asked about dream studio partners: Amanda named producer Rick Rubin and songwriter Ryan Tedder. Max chose Aaron Barrett of Real Big Fish and Eminem, admiring his relentless work ethic. Jim picked Butch Vig, best known for producing Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins, wanting to study his creative process firsthand.
Fans of emo, shoegaze, alt-rock, and dynamic modern rock should take note: Analog Amara is a band you’ll want to follow closely.
#AnalogAmara #TheHangPodcast #EmotionalRock #ShoegazeRevival #newrockmusic 
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In this episode of “The Hang,” host Scott Saldinger sits down with guitarist and vocalist Gianni Carpanzano of Stamford, Connecticut’s explosive rock trio Soft Spot. They dive deep into the band’s evolution—from its early days fading in and out of practice rooms, to the release of their emotionally charged debut album, This Will Make You Cry, and the intensity of writing and performing songs that aim to stir deep feeling in listeners.
Gianni opens up about his musical roots and the profound impact of his mother’s encouragement to pick up a guitar at a young age—an influence that sparked his passion and shaped his songwriting voice. He explores how the band’s vision crystallized around the idea of evoking visceral reactions in fans, with lines like “This will make you cry” and “I hope this makes you cry” becoming both mantra and mission.
Much of the interview focuses on the creative alchemy between Gianni, bassist Dave Eisermann, and drummer Marc Marenco. We cover how collaborations—within the band and with recording engineer Dan Updike—helped finalize their sound. Gianni states unequivocally, “I couldn’t thank Dan enough”, about the impact Dan had during the recording of singles like “Loose,” “Use Me,” “Down,” and “Soulgaze.”
We dig into the touring experience following Soft Spot’s first official East Coast run in 2024 with fellow Connecticut grunge outfit Whitewood Drive, including standout stops at Stamford’s Palace Theatre and Brooklyn’s Gold Sounds. Gianni shares how the live stage has been a growth engine for their emotional delivery and connection with fans.
Looking ahead, Gianni reveals exciting plans: Soft Spot is releasing a split EP with Drink Baby, and gearing up to write and record their next wave of music—promising more emotionally immersive tracks destined to land on future releases.
Throughout the episode, the band’s aesthetic and sonic identity—“gaze-grungy rock”—is unpacked, enriched by their comparisons to Hum and Alice in Chains. We explore how that swirling, eruptive sound was born, and why it feels so singular coming from just three guys from Stamford.
Whether you’re a Soft Spot superfan, a lover of emotionally raw rock, or a musician curious about the intersection of collaboration and creative growth, this episode delivers authentic insights from behind the scenes of a band on the verge of breaking through.
Join us for a raw, heartfelt conversation that’s sure to echo in your heart long after you hit pause.
#softspot  #GianniCarpanzano #ThisWillMakeYouCry #DreamGrunge #emotionalrock #stamford #connecticut
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In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with Raquel “Rocky” Mann (Lead Vocals, Lyrics) and Eric Neilson (Guitar, Vocals, Instrumentals) of the Edmonton‑based punk powerhouse Midnight Peg. You’ll hear the full story behind their formation (yes, it all started during a board‑game night), Rocky’s decade‑long journey back to music, and how Eric’s nostalgic emo‑inflected riffs lay the foundation for the band’s explosive sound.
The duo dive into conceptualizing their upcoming sophomore album Skinning—including how the structure (A‑side and B‑side, sprinkled with Easter eggs tying different songs together) reflects themes of power, desire, history, and creative cohesion. They unpack the visceral new single “The Hag”, exploring lyrics grounded in mythic imagery, historical allusion, and taboo sexuality. Rocky shares how poetry and creative writing inform her lyricism, including the heavy symbolism of “The Hag” and its exploration of gendered power dynamics and ritual.
Both artists reflect on their musical influences—from Queercore and Riot Grrrl to early 2000s emo and hardcore. They reminisce about their journey: Eric composing instrumental canvases, Rocky returning with fearless vocal intensity, and both crafting a shared creative space that values member collaboration and rich storytelling. They also reveal their thrill about releasing Skinning on vinyl for the first time.
Looking forward, they discuss future touring plans, dream collaborations, and the artists who continue to inspire them. Sound bites include candid reactions: “I really like that part about it,” “Thirstland really captures Midnight Peg,” and “I cannot stop listening to them.” 
Whether you’re a punk fan, lyric‑lover, or music creative, this is a revealing look into Midnight Peg’s world—from formation story to new album, creative philosophy, and lyrical depth.
#MidnightPeg #SkinningAlbum #TheHag #CanadianPunk #thehangpodcast #canada 
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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
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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

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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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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