From growing up in small-town Indiana around bluegrass and country music to touring nationally with Healing Sixes and eventually joining Steepwater Band, Saylors reflects on nearly three decades of life in working rock bands.

The conversation also dives into the upcoming Steepwater album, the band’s writing process, memorable jams with artists like Marc Ford and Luther Dickinson, and the realities of balancing music, work and family life.

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:20 – Intro: getting to know Eric Saylors beyond the stage

01:07 – Growing up in Bunker Hill, Indiana

02:10 – Early musical influences: country, bluegrass & his father’s guitar playing

03:36 – First real band: Wanted

05:40 – Henry Lee Summer years & early touring lessons

09:23 – Joining Healing Sixes & working with Jason Bonham

11:30 – Touring years, New York recording sessions & Kevin Shirley

13:27 – First meeting the Steepwater guys through shared gigs

15:28 – Telling Steepwater: “If there’s ever a fourth guy…”

17:04 – Joining the band with no rehearsal

18:44 – Finding his role alongside Jeff Massey

20:01 – Learning the Steepwater catalog & adapting parts live

21:15 – Realizing the chemistry worked

23:22 – Balancing Steepwater with work and family life

25:26 – Long-term life in touring bands

25:54 – Memorable sit-ins & playing with Marc Ford

27:17 – “Whoa” moments: backstage with Warren Haynes, Rich Robinson & Marc Ford

28:45 – Excitement around the upcoming Steepwater album

29:06 – How the new material differs from recent records

31:32 – Soundcheck riffs, writing process & road inspiration

33:06 – Relearning the new songs for live performance

34:17 – How Steepwater writes and develops material together

35:19 – Closing thoughts & future conversations

35:39 – Outro

✅ Check out

For all things Steepwater Band, go to steepwaterband.com.

For more about Doug Henthorn and Healing Sixes, go to doughenthorn.com.

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their song “We Can Settle This at Sunrise” as the show theme. You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here: https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

In this solo episode of the podcast, I break down the night — from the venue, to the crowd, to the opener, BettySoo, who plays a unique dual role on this tour.

I love that the band has been playing with McMurtry for years, I love that the bass player’s name is Cornbread, and I love that there were stickers of Cornbread (Michael Traylor), along with guitarist Tim Holt and drummer Daren Hess.

But what I loved most was an unexpected moment when McMurtry and BettySoo stepped in front of the mics to serenade an appreciative audience. I’m still in awe.

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:22 – Intro: solo episode & return to Castle Theatre

01:00 – Discovering James McMurtry & getting into his catalog

02:45 – Castle Theatre setup, favorite standing spot & sound discussion

03:30 – Crowd size, vibe & Castle comparisons

05:10 – Crowd energy: engaged fans vs chatty back section

06:15 – Merch stand overview (vinyl, posters, stickers)

07:00 – BettySoo opening set & dual role (opener + merch)

08:30 – Opening set impressions (quiet, intimate, uneven energy)

09:30 – McMurtry joins opener → energy shift

10:00 – Full band performance: tight, polished, album-accurate sound

10:45 – McMurtry storytelling & “Black Dog and the Wandering Boy”

11:30 – Emotional peak: “Blackberry Winter” front-of-stage performance

12:15 – Crowd reaction & standout concert moment

12:45 – Overall show takeaway: unique, organic, DIY feel

13:10 – Why taking chances on unfamiliar artists pays off

13:30 – Closing thoughts & recommendation

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their song “We Can Settle This at Sunrise” as the show’s theme.

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:

https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

It was the kind of moment that makes going to see live music special, and why I don’t mind going to shows alone. It had been about six months since I’d been to a show by myself— this one felt worth breaking the streak for.

Larkin Poe opening for Gov’t Mule at The Factory in St. Louis is about as strong a lineup as you’re going to find, and I wasn’t missing it.

It also seemed like a fitting time to introduce the first solo episode of Illinois Drifter. Here’s a look at what the episode covers:

⏱ Timestamps

00:16 – Intro: first solo concert in six months

01:00 – Larkin Poe familiarity and recent listening

02:00 – Govt Mule background and Allman Brothers connection

03:30 – The Factory venue overview

05:00 – Crowd behavior and standing vs sitting

06:30 – Meeting a fellow concertgoer

07:30 – Phone use and concert etiquette rant

10:00 – Merch experience and pricing thoughts

12:30 – Larkin Poe live performance breakdown

15:00 – Govt Mule set: tone and highlights

17:00 – 420 nod: “Don’t Step on the Grass, Sam”

18:30 – Band performance and musicianship

20:30 – Larkin Poe joins for “Sugaree” (highlight moment)

21:30 – Encore: “Soulshine” and crowd reaction

22:30 – Final thoughts on venue and crowd

23:00 – Outro and upcoming shows

✅ Check out

👉 To find Gov’t Mule live shows, including the show from The Factory, go to nugs.net. Streaming takes a subscription, but you can buy and download shows without a subscription.

👉 Are you a stander or a sitter? Check out more of my thoughts here.

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their song:

* “We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:

Thanks for reading Illinois Drifter! This post is public so feel free to share it.

From his early days in Illinois to touring the country and eventually scaling back to focus on family and creative fulfillment, Anderson shares a candid look at 30 years as an independent musician.

It’s a wide-ranging conversation that includes how I first discovered EDA, the origins and evolution of Backyard Tire Fire, why he never chased the traditional “music industry” path, moving to rural Wisconsin and embracing small-town life, the impact of family and fatherhood on his career, the “Let It Shine” documentary and much, much more, inclucing — of course — some Black Crowes discussion to finish.

✅ Check out

👉 For tickets to the Steepwater/Backyard Tire Fire show at FitzGeralds, go here: Tickets

👉 You can watch the outstanding documentary on Edward David Anderson, “Let It Shine” on YouTube here:

👉 For everything else EDA, including Backyard Tire Fire, go to Anderson’s website: https://www.edwarddavidanderson.com/

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:19 – Intro: discovering EDA at Danenberger Family Vineyards

02:41 – Background on Backyard Tire Fire & musical style

04:23 – Bloomington-Normal years, early band life & meeting his wife

05:05 – Intro to FitzGerald’s show with Steepwater Band

05:39 – Moving to Wisconsin & life in the Driftless region

08:15 – Illinois roots & importance of Chicago scene

09:55 – Fitzgerald’s as a key venue

10:22 – Why he never fully chased Nashville/industry path

12:44 – Touring life: “46 states” era

14:03 – Pandemic shift & rediscovering home life

15:49 – Havana, Illinois & creative inspiration (Still the River)

16:15 – Let It Shine documentary & unexpected impact

18:00 – Music as legacy for his daughter

20:27 – Work-life balance & scaling back touring

23:29 – Current lifestyle: fewer shows, more intention

25:45 – Evolution from 200+ shows/year to ~30/year

26:52 – Learning to play & early musical development

29:32 – Growth as a songwriter over time

31:49 – Industry realities & staying motivated

34:37 – Challenges of the music business & mental toll

36:00 – Early career break: record deal & Brother Jed

38:47 – Backyard Tire Fire rise & touring years

40:55 – Reuniting Backyard Tire Fire

43:30 – Current lineup & band chemistry

45:49 – New album (with Steve Berlin)

47:18 – Recording process & what to expect

49:49 – FitzGerald’s show preview & Steepwater collaboration

51:47 – Solo work & Black Dirt Revival trio

54:04 – Other projects (Dead band, local gigs, etc.)

57:04 – Grateful Dead influence & musical evolution

59:09 – Managing multiple projects & creative fulfillment

01:01:16 – Closing thoughts on current phase of career

01:01:47 – Outro

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here: https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

Justin and Tim revisit their long history — from newsroom colleagues to shared music obsessives. We break down what was great about the Brooklyn Charmers, what wasn't, why Steely Dan rules, and how personal experience shape the way we experience music — a theme for both of us in our content.

Think of Tim and Justin as the Velvet Underground of music writing: They don't necessarily have a lot of readers, but those who do read them want to start their own Substack.

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:16 – Intro: meeting Tim Cain & early music influence

02:40 – The Mark Lewisohn Beatles book story

03:27 – Bringing Tim on/relationship background

03:50 – Steely Dan tribute show setup (Brooklyn Charmers)

04:52 – Danenberger venue first impressions

05:23 – The “dogs at the show” experience

06:19 – Crowd size, vibe & Central Illinois unpredictability

07:23 – The Brooklyn Charmers breakdown (Colin Paterik/Survivor connection)

08:49 – How well the band recreates Steely Dan’s sound

09:44 – Musicianship: guitars, sax & overall band performance

10:52 – Criticism: bass too loud/too busy

12:10 – Guitar work & subtle performance strengths

12:41 – Setlist discussion begins (“Night by Night” opener)

13:11 – Tribute band philosophy: deep cuts vs hits

14:10 – Pink Floyd tribute tangent (when it doesn’t work)

16:24 – First set highlights & overall performance feel

18:04 – Playing Aja live & complexity of Steely Dan music

19:38 – Favorite Steely Dan albums & catalog discussion

20:58 – Evolution of Steely Dan’s sound over time

22:31 – Jammy ending & live interpretation vs original band

23:21 – Wrapping show thoughts/social media tangent

24:18 – Classic rock’s staying power & generational appeal

25:43 – Music in commercials & cultural recycling

26:11 – Tim Cain as an author (book discussion begins)

28:33 – How Can You Not Hear That & writing about music

30:25 – The second book & Beatles list origin

33:20 – Bands left off (Buzzcocks, Easybeats)

34:11 – Beatles ranking project discussion

36:19 – Ranking controversy & why lists work

38:23 – Favorite Beatles songs & changing perspectives

39:40 – “Hey Jude” conversation & re-evaluation

42:10 – Timeline for new book

42:48 – Outro

📚 Tim's Books

Here are Amazon links to buy Tim Cain's books:

Decatur Celebration: A History of the World's Fair of the Prairie

How Can You Not Hear That?

How Can You Listen to That?

✅ Check out

👉 Find everything Brooklyn Charmers at brooklyncharmers.com and on Facebook.

👉 For more on Danenberger Family Vineyards, including upcoming shows, go to: danenbergerfamilyvineyards.com or their Facebook page.

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:

https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

After first connecting at the Backroom Listening Lounge in Riverton, Illinois, Justin and Boone dive into the band’s origins, influences and evolution, along with the realities of life as an independent musician.

Here's a breakdown of the episode:

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:23 – Intro: discovering Otis at Backroom Listening Lounge

02:00 – Welcoming Boone & the Riverton venue experience

02:37 – First impressions of the Backroom Listening Lounge

03:30 – Boone’s musical upbringing in Kentucky

05:41 – Kentucky Headhunters influence & early exposure to music

06:26 – Personal connection to the Headhunters

08:21 – How Otis formed from a cover band background

10:28 – Naming the band (Greg Martin & Otis origin story)

12:34 – Debut album honoring bluesman John Brim

14:20 – Learning to arrange songs & discovering blues roots

18:17 – Billy Gibbons discovers Otis

21:24 – Developing identity before touring

22:43 – Eyes of the Sun album & early momentum

25:37 – Touring Europe vs the U.S. blues-rock scene

27:07 – 2020: band changes, pandemic & cancer diagnosis

30:10 – Surgery, recovery & impact on Boone’s voice

32:31 – Working with the Headhunters during recovery

34:16 – Thyroid cancer details & timeline

35:29 – First time singing again after surgery

37:20 – Decision to rebuild Otis

40:01 – Finding the new lineup (Alex & Dale)

42:37 – Band chemistry, improvisation & live philosophy

46:59 – New music & traction of “Wicked”

48:03 – How “Wicked” was created (influences & groove)

51:51 – Bringing “Wicked” to the live show

53:54 – Other singles & plans for a full album

55:29 – Challenges of making an album as an independent band

57:43 – Touring, word-of-mouth & building a fanbase

59:02 – “You either love Otis or haven’t heard them”

59:57 – What’s next: touring & future plans

01:02:26 – Kentucky Headhunters today

01:04:35 – Future idea: deep dive into Headhunters catalog

01:05:16 – Outro

✅ Check this out

👉 For more on Otis, check out their website at theotisband.com, and on Facebook.

👉 For more on the Backfroom Listening Lounge, check out their website at thebackroomlounge.com, and Facebook.

👉 Go to the Kentucky Headhunters Facebook page here: facebook.com/kentuckyheadhunters/

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

In this conversation, Eric talks about growing up in Louisiana surrounded by music, finding his voice across genres, and how New Orleans’ deep improvisational culture shaped the way he approaches playing and songwriting.

We also get into his journey after Hurricane Katrina, time spent in New Zealand, building his career back in New Orleans, and working with artists like Tab Benoit and Luther Dickinson.

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:22 – Intro: discovering Eric Johanson & deciding to attend the show

02:03 – Welcoming Eric & first impressions of Dannenberger Family Vineyards

02:33 – The unique “middle of nowhere” venue experience

03:25 – Comparing indoor vs outdoor setup at Dannenberger

04:14 – Growing up around music in Louisiana

05:15 – Early jam sessions, recording experiments & studio exposure

07:06 – Musical influences: blues, rock, metal & improvisation

09:56 – Hurricane Katrina: losing everything & shifting direction

12:25 – Moving to New Zealand & personal reset

13:30 – Realizing what makes New Orleans’ music culture unique

15:49 – Finding (or not finding) a music scene in New Zealand

18:07 – Returning to New Orleans & rebuilding through live music

19:50 – Forming the trio & stepping into a bandleader role

21:41 – Meeting Tab Benoit through the New Orleans scene

23:07 – Recording Burn It Down & first major collaboration

24:48 – Touring with Tab Benoit (with Tab on drums)

27:01 – Blues in My Blood with cousin Tiffany Pollock

29:36 – Connecting with Luther Dickinson & recording Below Sea Level

33:48 – COVID era: live streaming & Covered Tracks

37:31 – Building fan connection during COVID

39:53 – The Deep and the Dirty & evolving sound

43:42 – Live show experience & connecting with fans

46:30 – Age perception & authenticity in music

49:03 – Band members & building the trio lineup

52:22 – Sobriety, lifestyle & life on the road

56:15 – Musicians, personality & going “full throttle”

58:11 – Live album & capturing improvisation

1:00:00 – What’s next: touring, new music & future plans

1:01:31 – Albums vs singles & the value of “deep cuts”

1:04:10 – Outro

✅ Check this out

👉 For more on Eric Johanson, including new merch — an awesome shirt featuring his Gibson Explorer, visit: https://www.ericjohanson.com

👉 For more on Danenberger Family Vineyards, including upcoming shows, go to: https://danenbergerfamilyvineyards.com/

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

They break down the differences between both shows, venue vibes, standout songs, and why Blackberry Smoke continues to be one of the best live bands going.

⏱️ Timestamps

0:00 – Intro & weekend recap

1:51 – Blackberry Smoke background

5:37 – Venue breakdown (Champaign vs Rockford)

8:00 – Seating experiences (rafters vs row two)

11:06 – Upgraded seats & Rockford crowd

14:55 – Opening act: Hippies & Cowboys

19:34 – Blackberry Smoke live sound & performance

20:53 – Crowd traditions & “Good One Comin’ On”

22:21 – “Hey Delilah” changes

23:11 – Setlist breakdown (night one vs night two)

25:47 – Deep cuts & “We Got Company”

27:51 – Interludes & Beatles “Come Together”

29:10 – Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick) surprise

31:29 – Covers, encores & standout moments

34:24 – Backstage experience

36:59 – Blizzard drive home (full chaos)

39:00 – Upcoming shows & Steepwater Band

41:51 – Outro & plugs

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

💪For more

Check out the Illinois Drifter Substack and Illinois Drifter on YouTube

For more Shawn Hillman, check out the Ridiculous Rock Record Reviews Podcast and also the State of Amorica Podcast.

The Toy Factory Project features an all-star lineup including Marcus King, Charlie Starr (Blackberry Smoke), Oteil Burbridge, Paul T. Riddle (original Marshall Tucker Band drummer), Josh Shilling, and standout fiddle player Billy Contreras.

Justin and Jim break down the venue, the band lineup, the Marshall Tucker catalog, and why this performance felt more like a full jam-band experience than a typical tribute show.

They also discuss how the internet and music communities help fans discover unique performances like this one — and how a tip from Justin led Jim to attend the show in the first place.

🎵 Topics Covered

* The legendary Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY and its Grateful Dead history

* Jim’s experience traveling to shows from Annapolis and the East Coast concert circuit

* Why the Marshall Tucker Band is more musically complex — and jazz-influenced — than many people realize

* How the Toy Factory Project evolved over more than a decade of collaboration

* The incredible stage lineup featuring Marcus King, Charlie Starr, Oteil Burbridge, and Paul T. Riddle

* Why fiddle player Billy Contreras may have been the standout musician of the night

* Deep jams and extended performances, including a nearly 20-minute version of “24 Hours at a Time”

* The emotional crowd moment during “Can’t You See”

* The recording of the show captured by taper Michael Buzio and where fans may be able to find it

* The future of the Toy Factory Project and possible additional tour dates

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:21 – Introduction: Jim Hennessy joins the podcast

01:50 – How Justin and Jim connected through the State of Amorica community

02:00 – Their Ridiculous Rock Record Reviews appearance reviewing Johnny Blue Skies

03:12 – Introducing the Toy Factory Project and its all-star lineup

04:40 – The legendary Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, New York

07:17 – Travel logistics and why the venue is worth the drive

10:06 – Justin and Jim compare concert travel and upcoming Noblesville plans

11:38 – Marshall Tucker Band: deeper catalog and Southern rock influence

12:20 – Jim’s early exposure to Southern rock through his mother’s record collection

16:52 – Marshall Tucker’s jazz influence and why Oteil Burbridge fits the project

18:00 – The February 27 show at the Capitol Theatre

18:20 – Stage layout and the musicians involved

20:17 – The Toy Factory Project as a true jam band experience

23:01 – How the project evolved over more than a decade

25:34 – Touring schedules and future Toy Factory dates

26:04 – Was the Marshall Tucker flute sound missing?

26:30 – Billy Contreras: the standout musician of the night

28:17 – First-set highlights and standout songs

30:40 – “This Old Cowboy” and the band’s jazz-jam approach

32:52 – Opening songs: Hillbilly Band and You Ain’t Foolin’ Me

35:24 – “Blue Ridge Mountain Sky” and Marcus King’s connection to it

37:29 – “In My Own Way” and standout fiddle moments

38:51 – Second set begins: “24 Hours at a Time” and extended jams

41:08 – Marcus King’s guitar work and the Allman Brothers influence

43:46 – Paul T. Riddle and the rhythm section groove

46:17 – Crowd moment during “Can’t You See”

48:28 – “Take the Highway” jam and acoustic encore discussion

50:38 – The show recording captured by taper Michael Buzio

52:40 – How Justin tipped Jim off about the show after a Marcus King VIP performance

53:26 – Music communities, friendships, and the State of Amorica group

56:55 – Future Toy Factory shows and possible recordings

59:19 – Closing thoughts and upcoming Black Crowes shows

🙌Show link

Want to hear the show we're discussing? Here's a link.

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

💪For more

Check out the Illinois Drifter Substack and Illinois Drifter on YouTube

We also touch on backup singers, crowd behavior, merch finds, and what’s ahead with upcoming Blackberry Smoke shows.

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:00 – Intro & return of #ShawnConnery

01:14 – Seeing Joe Bonamassa in Peoria & Shawn’s history with Joe

02:39 – First impressions of Bonamassa & discovering the band

04:50 – Prairie Home Alliance Theater: history & venue overview

06:31 – Convenience of the venue & out-of-town experience

09:16 – Venue attendance, Peoria crowds & drawing bigger acts

10:33 – Joe Bonamassa: perception vs reality

12:01 – The band as the “secret sauce”

13:46 – Backup singers & why they elevate live shows

14:58 – The second guitarist & on-stage dynamics

15:49 – Dynamics: quiet moments & crowd engagement

17:37 – Setlist highlights & new album material

19:24 – Eclectic covers & blues influences in the show

20:20 – “Mountain Time” & the expectations of fans

21:08 – Joe’s legacy & honoring blues greats

22:42 – Merch table finds & the B.B. King tribute album

24:50 – Johnny Blue Skies discussion & new music talk

26:13 – Upcoming Blackberry Smoke shows in Champaign & Rockford

26:51 – Closing thoughts & promoting the Kent Aberle episode

🎙️Be sure to check out Shawn Hillman on:

State of Amorica Podcast

Ridiculous Rock Record Reviews Podcast

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

We discuss honoring Turner’s legacy without trying to replace him, earning trust night after night, the uniquely loyal culture of Blackberry Smoke fans, the band’s live interludes, and what keeps a 25-year-old band moving forward.

⏱ Episode Timeline

00:00 – Introduction to Kent Aberle & stepping into Blackberry Smoke

04:45 – Growing up in Fairbury, Illinois

08:48 – From athlete to musician: sports, discipline & identity

11:30 – Moving to Atlanta & adjusting to Southern life

15:52 – The call to join Blackberry Smoke

19:54 – Honoring Brit Turner’s legacy

24:05 – The uniquely loyal Blackberry Smoke fanbase

28:11 – Inside the band: chemistry, dedication & favorite songs

30:51 – The joy of spontaneity & live interludes

32:48 – Musical influences & early favorites

36:31 – Family, roots & the role of home

37:53 – The Places You’ll Drum & creative projects

43:23 – Staying creative while touring

45:31 – Eclectic tastes & evolving influences

46:58 – Finding his place in Blackberry Smoke

48:52 – Sports talk & band dynamics

53:17 – Longevity, brotherhood & earning it

56:31 – Upcoming shows & personal connections

⭐ More on Kent Aberle

From Fairbury to Blackberry Smoke: Kent Aberle’s journey from athlete to rock drummer: https://pantagraph.com/sports/article_a3b3107c-72bd-4b0a-a1ed-8b0f231d9945.html

How Fairbury native Kent Aberle turned his health around — and keeps it up on the road: https://pantagraph.com/sports/article_f0fb1fdb-a4e3-4af7-93c0-bf1791eeb12d.html

Keeping the Beat Going: Kent Aberle’s Journey with Blackberry Smoke : https://illinoisdrifter.substack.com/p/keeping-the-beat-going-kent-aberles

⭐ Kent’s Photo Books

Oh, The Places You’ll Drum (2024)

https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/4415546827/ohthe-places-youll-drum2024-by-kent

Oh, The Places You’ll Drum (2025)

https://www.etsy.com/listing/4443520654/ohthe-places-youll-drum-2025-by-kent

🎵 Music Credit

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their songs:

“We Can Settle This at Sunrise” (theme)

“Sweet Vermillion” (bumper music)

You can purchase their album Outside Abiquiu here:

https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

We also discuss teaching, the grind of early touring, Steepwater Band, Nomad Planets, and what it means to serve the song.

⏱ Time Stamps

00:00 – Intro & discovering Chris at Avenue 912

03:40 – Western Pennsylvania roots & early piano lessons

05:00 – First applause and “chasing the dragon”

07:40 – Chicago Academy for the Performing Arts

11:30 – Classical vs rock & leaving Millikin

13:40 – Teaching piano & why continuity matters

17:00 – Losing Eddie, COVID and returning to teaching

18:45 – First touring bar band & the gutted school bus

21:15 – Reinventing the band mid-tour (“The Factor”)

25:00 – The Chicago band with Joel Hoekstra & Kyle Woodring

27:30 – Auditioning for Survivor

30:00 – First Survivor gig (corporate hangar)

31:30 – Pittsburgh Regatta & 100,000+ crowd

33:45 – Playing with original Survivor members

36:45 – VH1 Classic Tour & meeting Eddie Money

38:20 – Joining Eddie Money’s band

43:00 – Eddie changing setlists mid-show

46:30 – What it was like touring with Eddie

49:00 – Eddie’s final shows & his passing

53:00 – Playing with legends (Heart, Chicago, Styx, Sammy Hagar)

57:00 – Steepwater Band & Nomad Planets

1:01:20 – Philosophy: serve the song

1:09:00 – The one-man show experiment

1:15:20 – Closing thoughts

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their song, "We Can Settle This at Sunrise," as the theme. You can buy it here: https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

Illinois Drifter Podcast: Sunshine Daydream (with Mike & Olivia Tash)

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Tasch (keys) and Olivia Tasch (vocals) of Sunshine Daydream, a Central Illinois-based Grateful Dead tribute band that’s been building something special for over a decade.

We talk about:

🎵 How the band formed and evolved

🎵 Their connection to the Grateful Dead

🎵 What it means to be a tribute band

🎵 How they build setlists (and why they’re never predictable)

🎵 The hardest Dead songs to play

🎵 Why long-term band chemistry matters

🎵 Playing the Castle Theater

🎵 Their side project, Chickadee Sermon

🎵 And where you can catch them next

🎵 We also discuss archive.org as a resource for live recordings and revisit the legacy of Donnie’s Homespun Pizza.

📅 Upcoming Shows Mentioned

Sunshine Daydream

Friday, March 6 – Rose Bowl, Urbana, IL

Saturday, March 21 – Arlington’s, Springfield, IL (with Old Shoe)

Friday, March 27 – Destihl Beer Hall, Normal, IL (with Blue Sky Revival)

Saturday, April 4 – Curve Inn, Springfield, IL

Chickadee Sermon

Thursday, April 2 – Rose Bowl, Urbana, IL (Happy Hour Show)

⏱ Episode Time Stamps

00:00 – Intro & discovering Sunshine Daydream

03:20 – Band formation & early history

05:00 – Becoming a Grateful Dead tribute band

06:40 – Tribute band stigma & philosophy

07:30 – How setlists are built

10:00 – Hardest Dead songs to play

11:00 – Most fun songs to play

13:00 – Playing fluidly & perfectionism

14:15 – Key to playing the Dead well

16:00 – Castle Theater show recap

18:20 – Springfield home venues

19:40 – Upcoming Sunshine Daydream shows

22:50 – Keeping a band together long-term

23:20 – “Angel from Montgomery” moment

24:50 – Chickadee Sermon side project

26:30 – Archive.org & Live Music Archive

28:15 – Donnie’s Homespun Pizza sendoff

28:50 – Outro

Thank you to Nomad Planets for use of their song, "We Can Settle This at Sunrise," as the theme. You can buy it here: https://nomadplanets.bandcamp.com/album/outside-abiquiu

#ShawnConnery talks about:

🎵 Why the Castle might be one of the best small venues in Illinois

🎵 JJ opening with “Lochloosa” and why that struck a chord

🎵A full 10-piece band that sounded bigger than the room

🎵A look at the setlist

🎵Amateur-hour crowd behavior (yes, someone made a Xena noise…)

🎵And why Shawn is officially all-in on JJ Grey after seeing him live for the first time

We also talk State of Amorica, March Madness-style Black Crowes debates, and I do a live unboxing of a JJ Grey tour poster gifted to me by Big Jim — one of the most prolific concertgoers I know.

If you’ve ever wondered whether JJ Grey is worth seeing live, the answer is simple: yes.

⏱ Time Stamps

0:00 – Intro & setting the scene (JJ Grey at the Castle)

1:05 – Introducing Shawn

2:00 – The Castle Theater: why it works (and the seating gripe)

5:00 – Parking, Rosie’s Pub, and Bloomington logistics

6:30 – How we came to JJ Grey (first-timer perspective)

9:00 – “Lochloosa” & finding your personal escape

10:00 – “You’re about to go to church” moment

11:00 – The band: horns, percussion, and a 10-piece setup

14:00 – Sound quality & best spot in the room

17:00 – “An intimate evening with JJ Grey” — expectations vs reality

18:30 – Setlist talk & deep cuts

21:00 – Sold-out crowd & the talking problem

25:00 – Xena Warrior Princess guy & the guy who fell out

26:50 – Would we see JJ Grey again?

29:00 – State of Amorica updates

33:15 – Big Jim story & JJ Grey poster unboxing

36:10 – Outro

Justin first discovered Nomad Planets after seeing them open for the Steepwater Band, and what began as curiosity quickly turned into a deep appreciation for a band that rewards repeat listens and defies easy categorization. In this episode, singer-guitarists Mark Mybeck and John Carpenter, along with bassist Phil Rapchak, talk about how the band formed, how their lineup evolved over decades, and how their weekly Tuesday-night studio sessions have become the backbone of their songwriting and sound.

The discussion covers everything from their early recordings and albums dating back to The Indestructible Drop (2001), to fan favorites like You’re Never Lost Until You Panic, to their most recent work following COVID, including Outside Abiquiu. The band also shares insight into their organic, ego-free approach to collaboration, the importance of live performance, and what it takes to keep creating original music later in life.

Justin wraps up the episode by reflecting on Nomad Planets’ unique sound and influences, previewing upcoming live shows, and teasing what’s next for the Illinois Drifter Podcast — including upcoming episodes featuring Sunshine Daydream, JJ Grey & Mofro coverage, and a special guest he expects to return often.00:00 – Introduction to the Illinois Drifter Podcast

00:45 – Discovering Nomad Planets & first impressions

02:00 – Band origins and early history

04:10 – Lineup evolution and long-term collaboration

08:55 – Adding drummer Terry Boylan

10:25 – Chris Grove joins and expands the band’s sound

11:45 – Defining (and not defining) the Nomad Planets sound

14:20 – The Tuesday night studio ritual

17:40 – Writing songs live and embracing imperfection

18:55 – Albums as individual statements

20:30 – Playing live, aging, and staying motivated

23:00 – What’s next: new recordings and release plans

24:30 – Supporting original music venues

25:45 – Upcoming live shows

27:45 – Host reflections on influences and sound

29:15 – What’s coming up next on Illinois Drifter

In this debut episode, Justin is joined by Jeff Massey and Joe Winters of The Steepwater Band to discuss the first show he attended in 2026 — the band’s January 10 performance at Leroy’s Hot Stuff in Porter, Indiana. The conversation covers Steepwater’s long history with Leroy’s, favorite hometown venues, the distinctive sound of opening act Nomad Planets, the realities of live performance, new music coming in 2026, and thoughts on recent songs from The Black Crowes.

Special thanks to Nomad Planets for the use of a clip from their song “We Can Settle This at Sunrise” as the Illinois Drifter podcast theme. You can purchase Nomad Planets’ music at nomadplanets.bandcamp.com.

For more information on The Steepwater Band and upcoming live dates, visit steepwaterband.com.

For more on Nomad Planets, including music and shows, visit nomadplanets.com.

Episode Timeline (40 minutes)

00:22 – Welcome to the Illinois Drifter PodcastJustin introduces the podcast, its roots as an extension of the Illinois Drifter Substack, and his goal of celebrating music through writing and audio.

02:00 – Expanding Beyond WritingWhy podcasting felt like a natural next step, what Illinois Drifter has covered so far, and plans for more show reviews and interviews.

02:58 – Introducing the GuestsJustin welcomes Jeff Massey and Joe Winters of The Steepwater Band as the podcast’s first guests.

03:23 – First Show of 2026: Leroy’s Hot StuffSetting the scene for the January 10 show in Porter, Indiana, and Justin’s first visit to the legendary roadhouse.

03:55 – Leroy’s Hot Stuff: History & VibeJeff and Joe discuss their long relationship with Leroy’s, its blues legacy, and why it remains a twice-a-year hometown stop.

05:26 – Early Days at Leroy’sOpen mic nights, Sunday jams, and how Steepwater became regulars at the venue.

06:50 – Other Local HauntsReggies, Austin’s Community Tavern, FitzGerald’s and the importance of hometown venues.

08:21 – Coming Home After TouringWhy hometown crowds feel different after long tours, including recent European runs.

08:47 – Nomad Planets: The Opening ActHow Justin discovered the band and why they made for a perfect contrast on the bill.

09:24 – History with Nomad PlanetsMeeting Mark Myback, encouraging original music, and a shared DIY ethos.

12:16 – Nomad Planets’ Sound & Influences80s and 90s alternative vibes, Lou Reed, R.E.M., and The Tragically Hip comparisons.

13:54 – The Steepwater Band’s PerformanceEnergy in the room, no soundcheck, technical issues, and powering through live challenges.

16:24 – Live Music RealitiesBreaking gear, adapting onstage, and why unpredictability is part of the experience.

18:41 – Tom Keifer/Arcada Theatre StoryA cautionary tale about volume, blown PAs, and live sound disasters.

20:54 – Chris Grove’s Role in SteepwaterLongtime collaboration, keyboard textures, and how he expands the band’s sound live and in the studio.

23:58 – New Steepwater Album (2026)Recording with Tony Mack, piecing sessions together around touring, and excitement about playing new material live.

27:14 – The Black Crowes’ New SongsThoughts on two two new Black Crowes songs, classic Crowes tones, lineup rumors, and reactions to the new video.

34:16 – Wrap-Up & Final ThoughtsJustin closes out the conversation, thanks Jeff and Joe, reminisces on how he met the Steepwater guys, and looks ahead to future Illinois Drifter podcast episodes.