Shows
MICRO SPYKip Ulhorn of The Red ScareIn this episode, I speak with Kip Ulhorn, singer and guitarist of the seminal hardcore band, The Red Scare.
Hailing from Knoxville, The Red Scare had a profound impact on the sonic landscape of punk and hardcore in the late 90s. In this conversation, Kip and I discuss:
A shared love for California
Social and governmental neglect
The importance of community
Friendship
Being walking time capsules
The spirit of punk rock
Their newly released discography on Solid...2024-06-141h 30
The New SceneEpisode 207: Best of 2023 with Casey Iodine and Erik from Jeromes DreamKeith and Casey deliver their Top Ten Records of 2023. We also sit down with Erik Ratensperger from Jeromes Dream for an exclusive in-depth interview on their 2023 LP "The Gray In Between" and more.
2023-12-251h 57
MICRO SPYBrandon Evans of City of Caterpillar and pageninetynineIn this episode. I speak with Brandon Evans, member of the bands City of Caterpillar and pageninetynine. Brandon and I discuss the magic of music, DIY ethos, Richmond’s vibrant hardcore scene, and how playing in City of Caterpillar and pg99 is the same, but entirely different. We also talk about friendship, and the wild nature of connection and community through music, and specifically, punk.
Links:
City of Caterpillar — Mystic Sisters (Relapse)
Instagram
pg.99 Instagram
Additional tours mentioned:
Jero...2023-11-181h 31
MICRO SPYSonny Kay of Angel Hair, The VSS, GSLI speak with Sonny Kay, vocalist of the bands Angel Hair and The VSS.
He’s also the founder of the seminal record label, Gold Standard Laboratories, having released albums by The Locust, Melt Banana, The Rapture, Arab on Radar, Mohinder, and The Mars Volta, just to name a few. Sonny and I discuss the perception of time, nostalgia, leading a creative life, and transcending the traditional molds of punk and hardcore.
We also talk about being an outcast, taking matters into your own hands, and creating your own space within creativity, pun...2023-11-101h 44
MICRO SPYJon Nix, Director of Don't Fall In Love With YourselfIn this episode, I speak with, Jon Nix, co-founder of TurnStyle Films and director of his most recent release, “Don’t Fall in Love with Yourself”, a documentary on the life of Justin Pearson from The Locust, Three One G, and Deafclub.
We talk about Jon’s childhood, and how movies and disposable cameras got him through difficult times. We speak about storytelling, and the mysterious, physiological ways film and music can affect us.
We delve deep into his process of making this incredible documentary — and all the learnings that came with it.
2023-09-281h 20
MICRO SPYDave Rosenberg of DeadguyIn this episode, I speak with Dave Rosenberg— drummer of the band Deadguy.
Dave and I talk about the origins of the band, and what they’re up to today.
We reflect on the early days of hardcore, the struggles of tour, and keeping it all together, or not… Dave and I also nerd out over snare drum sounds, his ultra-rare cymbal collection, and his early training under the late renowned jazz drummer, Sonny Igoe.
We also talk about that time Jay Weinberg of Slipknot wore a Deadguy t-shirt and his bandmate Crispy’s particu...2023-09-201h 53
MICRO SPYJeremy Bolm of Touché Amoré and The First Ever PodcastIn this episode, I speak with Jeremy Bolm— Singer of the band Touche Amore, Host of The First Ever Podcast, And founder of Secret Voice Records. He’s also a writer, having penned poetry books like 'October' and 'Downtime.' Needless to say, his plate is full.
We talk about the early beginnings of Touche Amore, creative headspace, Korn’s first album, working with Ross Robinson, and the intentionality behind everything he does.
Check out Jeremy's stuff:
Touche Amore Official Site
The First Ever Podcast
Secret Voice...2023-09-121h 53
MICRO SPYChristopher Norris a.k.a. Steak Mountain of Combat Wounded Veteran and Reversal of ManIn this episode, I speak with Christopher Norris, also known as Steak Mountain. He’s a notable figure in the DIY punk scene, having been in bands like Combat Wounded Veteran and Reversal of Man.
We discuss Chris’ childhood, his love of movies, nancy drew novels, and the end of the world. We also talk about creative process, and his new book, The Holy Day, which comes out October 10th, published by Rose Books.
Preorder The Holy Day
steakmtn.com
@steakmtn
Combat Wounded Veteran
Rever...2023-09-041h 53
Bringin' it BackwardsInterview with Jeromes DreamWe had the pleasure of interviewing Jeromes Dream over Zoom video!San Francisco hardcore band Jeromes Dream — Erik Ratensperger( drums), Jeff Smith (bass, vocals), and Sean Leary (guitar) — released their new album and third full-length The Gray In Between via Iodine Recordings.Jeromes Dream share history with bands like Orchid, Saetia, Reversal of Man, and pageninetynine. The band existed between 1997 and 2001, then reformed in 2018. The Gray In Between introduces Leary (Loma Prieta) on guitar and was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Jack Shirley (Deafheaven, Quicksand, Joyce Manor)."The entirety of The Gray In Between is a...2023-07-021h 02
MICRO SPYJeromes Dream with Jack ShirleyJeromes Dream's new album, "The Gray In Between" is out TODAY, and this is a special episode to celebrate it. JD and renowned engineer/ producer, Jack Shirley sit down and listen through the record and reflect on the experience of making it together at Jack's studio, Atomic Garden East, in Oakland, CA. This conversation was recorded a few days before Christmas, 2022.
Buy THE GRAY IN BETWEEN:
https://bit.ly/44xbccM
Track Listing in this episode:
JEROMES DREAM | THE GRAY IN BETWEEN
01. Conversations: In...2023-05-051h 19
SO YOU DID A THINGErik Ratensperger (Jeromes Dream, Iodine Recordings)I had Erik Ratensperger of Jeromes Dream on to discuss their upcoming album, The Gray In Between, released via Iodine Recordings. (Theme song by Honor Nezzo)2023-04-141h 11
MICRO SPYBrian Case of FACSIn this episode, I speak with Brian Case, singer, and guitarist of the band, FACS. Brian has been long involved in the underground music scene, and has had roles in bands like 90 Day Men, The Ponys, and Disappears. Brian and I discuss the inherent need to create, the philosophy of DIY, the underground scene in Chicago in the 90s, the impact of the pandemic, the practice of restraint, working with you have, and the release of FACS’ new record, Still Life In Decay, which is officially out TODAY, April 7, 2023.
Tracklist:
FACS — When You...2023-04-071h 07
NOT JUST A PHASEJEROMES DREAMErik Ratensperger, (drummer) of Jeromes Dream joins us to chat about their upcoming new album “The Gray In Between”.During our lengthy chat we go down memory lane all the way to the beginning of The Dream and along the way we cover everything from love and loss to change, NJAP podcast history, chemistry, the current climate of our planet, politics, mental health, hiking, punk culture, skateboarding, cops, freebird and of course, Screamo. Loma Prieta, The Cure, Circle Jerks, Botch, Reversal Of Man, Hawak, Soul Glo, Gouge Away, Vein, Orchid, Chick! Chick! Chick!, The Red Scare, Combat Wounded Veteran, Metz, In L...2023-03-292h 13
MICRO SPYWalter Schreifels of QuicksandIn this episode, I speak with Walter Schreifels, member of the legendary hardcore bands, Gorilla Biscuits, Youth of Today, and the guitarist and singer of the highly acclaimed, Quicksand, who just announced its 30th Anniversary re-issue of their iconic debut album, “Slip” on Iodine Recordings.
Walter and I discuss the correlation between running and creativity, the humbling aspect of pushing beyond your comfort zone, smallness, time, and chemistry between collaborators. We talk about the pursuit to always to keep moving forward, strive for new, and how life can be a “choose your own adventure.”
Tr...2023-03-291h 17
Why Did We Ever Meet?Erik Ratensperger (Jeromes Dream)Fantastic conversation with Erik Ratensperger! The new Jeromes Dream record will be out May 5th and we get into that...but we cover a LOT more ground! Great talk that y'all are gonna love.
Pre-order 'The Gray In Between' at iodinerecords.com or visit JD's website: jeromesdreamforever.com & follow them on Instagram @jeromesdreamforever
JABRONIU.COM2023-03-221h 13
Run Into The Ground073. Kid A feat. Erik RatenspergerJoin our PATREON for bonus episodes.
This week we have Erik Ratensperger, drummer of Jeromes Dream and host of the MICRO SPY Podcast, on to talk about Radiohead's Kid A. This episode we discuss: podcasting, everyone loves Mike York, 90s hip hop, the pre-internet world, pandemic motivation, new Jeromes Dream material, Casey from Iodine Records, California living, overwhelming news cycles, the skull split, How Long Gone, the screamo legacy, Snapcase, violence in hardcore, playing with your back to the crowd, the Radiohead creative shift, Sheryl Crow guitar tone, the Kid A 2x10", Thom Yorke's phrase turning, deep song revisions, vibe...2023-03-211h 49
MICRO SPYAlex Edkins of METZ and Weird NightmareIn this episode, I speak with Alex Edkins, the guitarist and vocalist of the band METZ, and his new brainchild, Weird Nightmare. Alex and I discuss his music as a coping mechanism, the shift in mindset regarding creative collaboration, and the magical effects music and art can have on humanity. His new project Weird Nightmare released its debut full-length on Sub Pop last year. METZ’s most recent album, ATLAS VENDING, also released on Sub Pop came out in 2020. He’s already working on new material for both.
Tracklisting in this episode:
1. METZ — Headache
2. Weird Nightm...2023-02-061h 13
MICRO SPYSeb Alvarez of meth. and Virgin MotherIn this episode, I speak with Seb Alvarez - the vocalist and mastermind behind the bands meth. and Virgin Mother. Seb and I discuss the inner workings of how he fuels expression through metaphor and his fascination with the psychology of cult leaders. We also discuss his take on verbal communication vs performative expression. Seb also discusses his reluctance to vulnerability, but how that might be slowly changing.
Learn more about meth. and Virgin Mother:
meth.:
https://methil.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/meth.band/?hl=en
Virgin Mother:
https://virginmother.bandcamp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/virginmother_/?hl...2023-01-261h 01
MICRO SPYMike York of Pianos Become The TeethIn this episode, I speak with Mike York of the band, Pianos Become The Teeth, who recently released their fifth studio album, “Drift” on Epitaph Records. Mike and I discuss the beauty of imperfection in music, how intentionality influences songwriting, and the bond he’s established with his bandmates over the years. We also talk about the importance of gratitude, and the excitement for what lies ahead.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/microspy/support2023-01-031h 07
100 Words Or Less: The PodcastErik Ratensperger from Jeromes DreamAll hail Jeromes Dream! The kings of OG screamo have been back in action since 2019 and now are collecting all of their older material for a deluxe re-release on Iodine Recordings so in turn, I had to have my old friend and drummer of the band on the show. Erik reminisces about being in the early days of the early 2000's screamo scene, existing as a band today and the ties that bind the DIY community. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information....2021-09-011h 09
The New SceneEpisode 74: Jeromes DreamKeith and Tommy sit down with Jeff Smith and Erik Ratensperger of Jeromes Dream to discuss the history of the band, the initial release of their then final LP "Presents", the difficulty some fans had with the band's shift in sound, their sudden breakup, relocating to San Francisco, reconnecting and rebooting Jeromes Dream, the band's upcoming reissue of "Presents" on Iodine Recordings and more.
2021-08-021h 47
MICRO SPYJesse DraxlerIn this episode, I speak with visual artist, Jesse Draxler.
Jesse is probably most known for his abstract, visual manipulation through collage. He’s had solo exhibitions between New York and Los Angeles and has done commercial work for brands like Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen, and Ferrari.
One of his most iconic works became the cover art for Daughters’ 2018 comeback album, “You Won’t Get What You Want”.
Jesse has also worked with Nine Inch Nails, and Chelsea Wolfe.
Our conversation explores creative process during a pandemic, using collage as a way to warp re...2020-04-041h 04
MICRO SPYRobert Pettersen and Rex Shelverton of Portraits of PastIn this episode, I speak with Robert Pettersen and Rex Shelverton of the band Portraits of Past.
Portraits of Past was a hardcore band from Half-moon Bay between 1993 and 95, and did a handful of reunion shows between 2008 and 2009.
Their debut LP, released on ebullition records came out after they had already broken up. And it wasn’t until overtime did people start to catch on to the brilliance of this band’s music.
I met with Rex and Robert in San Francisco. We recorded this conversation at Rex’s rehearsal space and talked for al...2020-03-132h 08
MICRO SPYAnthony DiDio of VeinIn this episode, I speak with Anthony DiDio of the Boston hard-core band Vein. Vein is one of the heaviest hardcore bands out there today. Their creativity along with their musical capability is arguably unrivaled.
Their 2018 full length, Errorzone is a blistering and beautiful record that pushes musical and conceptual boundaries. This band has such a unique style, combining various influences, creating a sound and visual world all of its own. Anthony and I discuss those influences, creative process, what determines a good song, and the nuance of triggering emotion.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters...2020-03-0549 min
MICRO SPYHrishikesh Hirway of Song Exploder, The West Wing Weekly, and The One AM RadioIn this episode, I speak with Hrishikesh Hirway, creator of the award-winning podcasts, Song Exploder and The West Wing Weekly. His most recent endeavor is hIs new podcast entitled, Partners — where he explores the bond between people who have made something together.
Hrishi is also the executive producer and theme composer of The Jump, a Podcast hosted by Shirley Manson of the band, Garbage.
He is also the musical talent behind The One AM radio and a member of the hip hop group, Moors, with actor Lakeith Stanfield.
Hrishi and I met in 1998 wh...2020-02-2753 min
MICRO SPYGeoff Garlock of OrchidIn this episode, I speak with Geoff Garlock of the band Orchid. Though Orchid hailed from Massachusetts, Geoff grew up in Connecticut like me. And not surprisingly we were exposed to a lot of the same bands.
We talk about the Connecticut hardcore scene in the mid-nineties and how the state acted as a sieve for bands that came through between New York and Boston.
Jeff also talks about his relationship with hardcore and the pros and cons that have come with it as he’s become older.
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Support this podcast: https://po...2020-02-201h 05
MICRO SPYJeff Howe of Reversal of ManIn this episode, I speak with Jeff Howe of the legendary hardcore band, Reversal of Man. He also played bass in Combat Wounded Veteran and is currently playing in the band Horsewhip. Jeff is also the co-founder of Nah Dogs, an all vegan hot dog stand, which he runs with his wife in St. Petersburg, FL.
Jeff and I talk about Reversal of Man’s history and the challenges they faced and endured through their end.
We also talk about the biggest takeaways of punk rock, friendship, perseverance, and how ROM turned an unfortunate conflict in...2020-02-1254 min
MICRO SPYMike Taylor of Pg.99 and PigmylushIn this episode, I speak with Mike Taylor, guitarist of the seminal hardcore band, Pg.99.
Mike and I share some punk rock history, having played numerous shows together in our band’s earlier years. From playing Food co-ops, the flat bottom of a half-pipe, to our bands sleeping on the floor of an old movie theatre somewhere In Virginia, our memories are fond and plenty. Mike’s fluency in music is inspiring. We talk about his love of hip hop and how shows like “120 Minutes” and "Yo MTV Raps" changed the way he consumed music as a kid. We also discuss...2020-02-051h 00
MICRO SPYJustin Pearson of The Locust, Dead Cross, and Three One G RecordsIn this episode, I speak with Justin Pearson, probably best known for his work in The Locust and one of my all-time favorites, Swing Kids. He is the founder of Three One G records and also plays in Dead Cross with Mike Patton of Faith No More, and Dave Lombardo of Slayer and Suicidal Tendencies. Justin is also one half of the assaulting electronic endeavor, Planet B in collaboration with Luke Henshaw. He just finished recording the second Dead Cross record and will be touring with The Locust later this year.
Needless to say, there's a lot going on in...2020-01-2958 min
MICRO SPYJack Shirley of The Atomic Garden Recording StudioIn this episode, I speak with Jack Shirley, a musician, an audio engineer, producer, and owner of The Atomic Garden studio in Oakland California. Jack is probably best known for his work with the band, Deafheaven, whose sophomore album, Sunbather was named Best New Music by Pitchfork. He has also recorded and produced bands like Loma Prieta, Gouge Away, Joyce Manor and countless others, including my band, Jeromes Dream. He was a founding member of the punk band Comadre and now plays guitar in Dangers!
We talk about his beginnings with recording, the Oakland punk scene, work...2020-01-2053 min
MICRO SPYAlexis Marshall of DaughtersIn this episode, I speak to Alexis Marshall, vocalist of the band, Daughters.
In November 2018, Daughters released their first LP in almost 6 years. It was followed by 15 months of grueling and unrelenting touring that just wrapped this past December.
Their critically acclaimed record, ”You Won’t Get What You Want“ has sold over 40,000 copies and has since amassed a devout and loyal following.
The band went from playing DIY punk shows in their hometown, Providence, Rhode Island, to playing festivals and shows to thousands of people all over the world.
It’s incredible to see a band from the underground rise to...2020-01-151h 03
MICRO SPYSean Leary of Loma PrietaHey everyone, my name is Erik Ratensperger and welcome to the first episode of Micro Spy, a podcast that takes a closer look at the lives and work of musicians and creatives I admire.
My first guest is Sean Leary of the San Francisco-based hardcore band Loma Prieta. I first met Sean in 2019 when I reached out to him to see if Loma would like to join my band Jeromes Dream on our first tour in 18 years.
I fell in love with their blistering and beautiful version of hardcore, their aesthetic, and the instant resonance I had specifically with their...2020-01-0845 min
Washed Up Emo#144 - Erik Ratensperger (Jeromes Dream)Today welcome Erik Ratensperger from the legendary screamo band Jeromes Dream.Jeromes Dream were around for a very short time from 1997 to 2001 born out of the Connecticut hardcore scene. They had a unique way of playing by way of the singer Jeff Smith refusing to use a microphone for shows. Also, the band was known for playing very short sets, usually no longer than 10 minutes. Pretty unique. These guys are right along side Pg.99, Orchid, Saetia in the early screamo era. If you’re unaware, it’s well worth a dive into their career. Head on over to t...2018-12-171h 19
Washed Up Emo#144 - Erik Ratensperger (Jeromes Dream)Today welcome Erik Ratensperger from the legendary screamo band Jeromes Dream.Jeromes Dream were around for a very short time from 1997 to 2001 born out of the Connecticut hardcore scene. They had a unique way of playing by way of the singer Jeff Smith refusing to use a microphone for shows. Also, the band was known for playing very short sets, usually no longer than 10 minutes. Pretty unique. These guys are right along side Pg.99, Orchid, Saetia in the early screamo era. If you’re unaware, it’s well worth a dive into their career. Head on over to their...2018-12-171h 16
For All MastersFAM #22 - Erik RatenspergerLike so many others who were there, I was fascinated by Jeromes Dream: the 3-piece from Connecticut that sparked endless debates on messageboards and bidding wars on eBay. The raw emotional fury manifested in their elusive records and blink-of-an-eye live sets was unlike anything I had ever seen or heard before. It had been over a decade (and several musical lifetimes) since I last spoke with Erik Ratensperger the former drummer for JD, and later The Virgins. Yet despite the lapse of time or difference in paths taken, the commonality of growing up within the hardcore scene of the late 90...2012-02-1837 min