Roadcase Podcast

2d ago

2025 is quickly coming to a close and what an honor it was to sit down for an intimate conversation with Carl Broemel in his hometown of Nashville for the 300th episode of Roadcase!! Carl is best known for his work in My Morning Jacket, and has released a series of notable solo projects over the past several decades. His upcoming album, Celestun, set for release on January 15, marks a continuation of his work with longtime collaborator Tyler Ramsey, formerly of Band of Horses. In this landmark year, My Morning Jacket released both a new album, “IS,” and celebrated the 20th anniversary of the album “Z” in a year-long celebration of spectacular live performances. Carl talked to me about how he sees the current state of the band, and he discusses with me exactly how he goes about continuing to feel refreshed and energized in this ever-changing musical landscape. Carl shares with me many of his “life hacks,” as we discuss the importance of being in the moment, and the unstoppable force of incremental growth in pushing forward towards one’s life goals, whatever they may be. ======================================= Episode Chapters: 00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 04:05 Reflecting on a Year of Music and Growth 06:59 The Spiritual Connection in Music 09:59 The Creative Process Behind 'Is' and 'Z' 12:49 The Live Performance Experience 15:47 Navigating the Challenges of Touring 18:49 The Influence of Family and Background 21:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery in Music 24:45 The Importance of Incremental Growth 27:31 Finding Balance in a Chaotic World 30:43 The Joy of Collaboration and Connection 33:33 Exploring New Horizons in Music and Life 54:25 Resonating with the Crowd 58:09 The Power of Community and Incremental Growth 59:21 Navigating Stardom and Popularity 01:04:17 The Challenges of Modern Music Promotion 01:04:30 Maintaining Humility in Success 01:10:04 The Emotional Connection to Music 01:13:08 The Journey of Finding Your Place in Music 01:20:39 Exploring the Dynamics of Band Relationships 01:22:38 The Solo Experience and Personal Growth 01:25:21 Stripping Down to Basics in Music 01:31:04 Reflections on Spirituality and Music 01:18:33 The Solo Experience and Personal Growth 01:21:16 Stripping Down to Basics in Music 01:26:59 Reflections on Spirituality and Music 01:38:34 Episode Outro with Host Josh Rosenberg ======================================= For Carl Broemel and Tyler Ramsey tour dates, click here We discussed the book Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman: Click here For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Dec 10

I’m excited to be back in Chicago after an EPIC European holiday and Joe Funk of Kitchen Dwellers is back for a second round with me on Roadcase for this week’s episode! Joe’s always down for a fun conversation, and he not only talks to me about his growing family, but also about the impact of Kitchen Dwellers steady rise over the past decade of grinding it out on the road, and how band member roles are constantly changing and evolving… in a good way. The Dwellers latest album, Seven Devils, is an intriguing ode to Dante’s Inferno — a concept album that ultimately found its conceptual direction pulled — literally — from the depths of Hell. It’s a heady concept that only a heady band such as the Dwellers could have pulled off, and they nailed it. It’s always fun to have Joe on the show — he’s smart, personable, and very much aware of his own role and how it’s evolved over time. The Dwellers are out on the road this Winter and coming to a Western ski town near you, so go check out this extraordinary (and trippy) band of brothers!! ==================================== Episode Chapters: 00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 04:27 Technical Challenges and Introductions 07:28 Parenthood and Personal Growth 10:25 Life on the Road and Family Dynamics 13:30 Nature and Environment 16:35 Transitioning in Music Career 19:21 Creative Processes and Challenges 22:25 Inspiration and Life Events 27:37 Maintaining Emotional Connections Through Technology 29:16 The Journey of Growth in Music 30:10 Taking Risks for Production Quality 31:47 The Benefits of a Steady Climb 33:18 The Challenges of Sudden Fame 34:35 Investing in Future Success 36:37 Creative Collaboration in Music 39:48 The Evolution of Improvisation 44:09 Conceptualizing the New Album 48:57 Differences in Album Production Styles 53:15 Navigating the Balance of Jamming and Structure 56:21 The Unique Charm of Bluegrass Bands 56:37 Pine Creek: A Growing Music Venue 1:00:18 Themed Performances and Creative Shows 01:04:28 Meal Prepping and Culinary Adventures 01:07:51 New Music and Upcoming Projects 01:10:52 Episode Outro with Host Josh Rosenberg ==================================== For Kitchen Dwellers tour dates, click here For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Nov 19

Jano Rix is on Roadcase this week, and I couldn’t be more psyched to share this amazing interview. Jano has been behind the drum kit in The Wood Brothers now for almost 15 years, and his magical drumming, percussion, keys, and vocals add that critical third dimension to the trio’s wonderful musical exploration that is at the heart of The Wood Brothers unique sound. The band’s sonic journey continues with their latest album Puff of Smoke, which came out August 1. Jano comes by his musical talent quite honestly — his Dad, noted drummer Luther Rix, had Jano playing drums by the time he was only 3 or 4 years old. And now, Jano and his Dad have together released an album, Legacy Vol. 1, with their new collab project, RIX. It’s a delightful album with the heartwarming story of a father, a son, and their lifelong shared musical connection. For Jano, this album was a long time coming. Jano also talks to me about how the hand of fate brought him to The Wood Brothers and we discuss what it means to join the band that he once adored as a fan — how discovering their music was a true revelation for him. And he describes to me that when he got the call from Oliver, he had truly found his musical home. It’s a serendipitous and fateful path that led Jano to this current place, and it’s an amazing story. Jano is kind, funny, and full of wonderful surprises, and you won’t want to miss this epic and unique story!! ================================ Episode Chapters: Episode Intro with Josh Rosenberg Introduction to Jano Rix Musical Influences and Early Life Joining The Wood Brothers The Creation of the Shittar Touring Experiences Collaborations and New Projects The Creative Process Live Performances and Their Impact The Evolution of The Wood Brothers Conclusion and Reflections ================================ For The Wood Brothers tour dates, click here For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Nov 12

I caught up once again with Mo Lowda & The Humble on their Tailing the Ghost Tour for their recent shows in Birmingham and Nashville. On this episode, I continue my Roadcase on the Road Series, as I feature interviews with the two “newest” members of Mo Lowda, bassist Jeff Lucci and guitarist Kirby Sybert. At the tail-end of this seven-week tour, the band is totally in the pocket, vibes are high and the entire operation was a well-oiled machine. And their playing followed suit: these guys were super “tour tight,” and the shows (and crowds) were simply outstanding! I was delighted to interview Jeff and Kirby for separate, one-on-one interviews before they hit the stage at Nashville's Basement East. Both dudes are totally chill, fun guests, and of course, conversation flows as it does between friends, and it’s a super intimate look at tour dynamics, their individual backgrounds and creative styles, and how they have both become important and integral parts of this tight-knit unit of extraordinary musicians. ============================== Episode Chapters: 00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 01:50 Introducing Jeff Lucci 03:40 Interview with Jeff Lucci 46:40 Jeff Lucci wrap up 50:50 Introducing Kirby Sybert 51:50 Interview with Kirby Sybert 1:36:30 Kirby Sybert interview wrap-up and Episode conclusion with Host Josh Rosenberg ================================ For Mo Lowda Tour info and tour dates, click here For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Nov 5

This week’s episode features Ben Carrey of Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this with one with you!! Pigeons is one of my favorite bands — I absolutely love their brand of rollicking, funky rock. Their jams are simply exquisite, and Ben drives this forward motion with his unique style on bass guitar. Pigeons’ eighth album, Feed The Fire is out now, and they’re headed out on their Fall tour — catch them while you can! Ben is super thoughtful and a gentle and kind soul, and he talks to me about growing up a shy kid in Baltimore — and we discuss how Ben’s unique (some may say unorthodox) style of playing has shaped the Pigeons signature sound. Ben is quite literary and very well read and we go down that rabbit hole a bit… with his love of Physics mixed in just for fun. Ben also talks to me about mental health and some of the challenges he faces. He’s super open with a striking and honest self-awareness that is utterly refreshing. This is an epic conversation with this talented artist, and I can’t wait to share this one with you. ======================================= Chapters: 00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 04:38 Introducing Ben Carrey 07:17 Celebrating the New Album and Touring Experiences 10:21 Collaboration with The Infamous Stringdusters 13:15 Exploring Musical Influences and Techniques 16:08 Fretless Bass and Its Unique Qualities 19:10 Cultural Connections and Personal Reflections 22:11 Musical Relationships and Band Dynamics 25:03 The Science of Music and Connection 28:10 Growing Up and Family Ties 33:35 Nostalgia and Family Connections 35:39 The Power of Solitude and Self-Discovery 36:42 Literary Influences and Early Interests 39:38 The Fascination with Physics and Quantum Mechanics 43:49 The Intersection of Science and Spirituality 45:29 The Magic of Music and Sound 48:11 Musical Beginnings and the Journey to Bass 54:04 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Performance 55:46 Mental Health Challenges and the Music Industry 59:40 Finding Balance and Support in Music 01:04:03 Connecting with the Audience and Personal Growth 01:06:18 The Power of Connection and Community 01:08:36 Psychedelics and Mental Health 01:13:52 The Journey of Self-Discovery 01:17:31 The Significance of 'Hit the Ground Running' 01:20:27 Collaborative Evolution in Music 01:24:45 The Impact of Live Performances 01:27:51 Dome Fest and New Beginnings 01:31:32 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Festivals ======================================= For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Oct 29

Please join me in celebrating Bluegrass on Roadcase this week with Sara Watking of I'm With Her!! Sara is a native of San Diego, where she began her musical journey along with her brother Sean, playing wherever and whenever they could. When they met Chris Thile and formed Nickel Creek in 1989, they formed a musical bond that has lasted decades. In the wake of the Nickel Creek hiatus of 2006, Sara went on to pursue a solo career, with her debut 2009 self-titled album produced by John Paul Jones. With her current project, I’m With Her, Sara marks over three decades of music with their latest release, Wild and Clear and Blue. Sara talks to me about those early days in San Diego and we discuss the significant DIY scene there and the impact it had on her and her brother’s musical development. We also go deep into I’m With Her, the latest album, and the challenges of touring as a parent. Sara has played with just about everyone imaginable, and the Watkins Family Hour is a landmark collaborative performance project which continues to leave an impact on the Bluegrass, Folk and Americana communities. ========================================== Chapters: 00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 04:27 Intro and Background 07:30 Parenting and Touring Life 10:22 The New Album: Wild and Clear and Blue 13:15 Festival Experiences and Performances 16:22 Collaboration in Bluegrass and Folk Music 19:21 Songwriting Process and Themes 22:11 The Evolution of I'm With Her 25:08 Reflections on Musical Community 32:12 Songwriting Process and Collaboration 34:18 The Impact of Personal Relationships on Creativity 35:51 Themes of Life and Relationships in Music 37:51 The Joy of Performing Live 39:38 Evolving Perspectives on Live Performance 43:26 Musical Influences and Growth 46:58 Connecting with John Paul Jones 53:24 The Importance of Community in Music 54:23 Episode Outro with Host Josh Rosenberg ========================================== For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Oct 22

Documentary Director and Producer Justin Kreutzmann is on the show this week!! Born into rock and roll — his Dad is Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kruetzmann — Justin grew up with a unique perspective and set of experiences all of which fed his love of music, especially that of The Who, The Doors, and of course, the Grateful Dead. Justin has directed a variety of music documentaries including Let There Be Drums; Break on Through: A Celebration of Ray Manzarek and The Doors; and, Move Me Brightly: Celebrating Jerry Garcia’s 70th Birthday. He is also a Producer on the epic Grateful Dead documentary, Long Strange Trip and is an Executive Producer on The Other One: The Long Strange Trip of Bob Weir. He is currently working on the official feature documentary of Jerry Garcia. Justin talks to me about the impact of his life growing up in and amongst the Dead at shows, at home, at family get-togethers and on the road. We discuss the documentary art form and Justin’s initial forays into film making and video documentation, and how instrumental were his years on the road with The Who. Justin is kind and just as cool and fun as can be, and I’m honored to have him on the show. This episode is filled with epic stories and remarkable anecdotes, direct from the source!! ========================================= Chapters: 00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 04:47 Justin Kreutzman and His Background 07:43 The Art of Documentary Filmmaking 10:25 Growing Up in the Music Scene 13:06 The Evolution of Touring and Travel 15:48 Family Dynamics and Personal Stories 18:57 The Impact of Fame and Recognition 21:31 Let There Be Drums: A Deeper Exploration 24:30 The Journey of Filmmaking and Storytelling 28:54 The Legacy of Drummers' Kids 31:26 Reflections on Family and Music 34:50 The Impact of Famous Parents 38:32 The Art of Documentary Filmmaking 41:49 Insights into the Jerry Garcia Documentary 50:16 The Evolution of the Grateful Dead's Sound 52:48 Reflections on Jerry Garcia's Final Years 55:31 The Impact of Awards and Recognition 58:22 Behind the Scenes of Music Videos 01:01:54 Bill Graham: The Man Behind the Music 01:05:28 Experiences with The Who 01:09:03 Editing Reality: The Bachelor Experience 01:11:28 Justin's Current Projects and Future Directions 01:18:36 Episode Wrap-up and Outro with Host Josh Rosenberg ========================================== For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer

Oct 15

Brad Barr is on the show this week, and I can’t wait to share this interview with you!! Brad and his brother Andrew make up the amazing combo, The Barr Brothers, and they’re psyched to be back with a new album coming out this Friday, October 17, entitled Let It Hiss. This amazing album features a variety of collaborations with friends including Elizabeth Powell (Land of Talk), Josie Adams (Arc Iris) and none other than Jim James of My Morning Jacket. Brad is a special human with incredible musical talents and a calm, confident and humble demeanor, and he talks to me about the long journey back after the pandemic. We discuss all the elements — personal and musical — that makes their expression just so unique. Brad is thoughtful and warm and I’m honored to call him a friend. The Barr Brothers is currently out on the road, playing in support of Mumford & Sons through mid-November, and then will hit the road in February to play headlining shows throughout the US. ========================================= Chapters: 00:00 Episode Intro with Host Josh Rosenberg 05:20 Introduction and Technical Setup 08:08 The Journey of Self-Discovery 09:59 The Impact of the Pandemic on Music 17:07 Growing Up in Providence 25:46 Musical Education and Influences 27:29 The Heart of Rock and Personal Connections 34:07 Transitioning to Montreal: A New Chapter 40:27 From Improvisation to Structured Songwriting 43:31 Personal Growth Through Music 46:13 Collaborations and Guest Artists in New Music 54:10 The Journey of Songwriting and Healing 58:20 Facing Life's Challenges Through Music 01:03:37 Relatability in Songwriting 01:05:48 The Future of Collaboration 01:07:24 Exploring Duo Dynamics in Performance 01:11:48 Innovative Guitar Techniques 01:18:31 The Unique Sound of The Barr Brothers 01:19:50 Episode Outro with Host Josh Rosenberg ============================================= For The Barr Brothers tour info and tour dates, click here For more information on Roadcase: https://linktr.ee/roadcasepod and https://www.roadcasepod.com Or contact Roadcase by email: info@roadcasepod.com Roadcase theme music: "Eugene (Instrumental)" by Waltzer