Shows
Top Hill Recording PodcastMax Donohue - Singer/Songwriter & First Top Hill Recording InternWe're saying a temporary farewell to our first-ever Top Hill Recording intern, Tennessee-based singer-songwriter Max Donohue. Max, influenced by artists like Lizzy McAlpine, Noah Kahan, and Ryan Beatty, recently released his album "Growing Pains", offering a deeply personal look into the mind of a 19-year-old. Thank you, Max, for your time and contributions with us! Plus, cohost Earl Bowman shares two of his rarely performed original songs in this special episode.
2024-09-061h 11Top Hill Recording PodcastEarl Bowman - Hard Working NewcomerEarl Bowman may be new to Louisville’s music scene but he’s working hard to make a name for himself. Earl has had the chance to open shows for Logan Halstead, and Riley Downing, and has appeared on playlists by GemsOnVHS, Americana Highways, and The Alt-Country Show. Earl is also the co-host of the Top Hill Recording Podcast.
2024-03-1553 minTop Hill Recording PodcastA World of Music Discovery and Intimate Live PerformancesCelebrate with us as we hit a major milestone in the world of music discovery and intimate live performances! Welcome to the 200th episode of the Top Hill Recording Podcast, where every note is a testament to raw talent and genuine artistry.
From our humble beginnings in a bedroom that evolved into Top Hill Recording Studio, hosts Brad Weston and Neil Johnstone have been on a journey to spotlight extraordinary musicians. Nestled atop a picturesque hill in the heart of the Jefferson Memorial Forest in Fairdale, Kentucky, Top Hill Recording Studio is not just a place; it's a haven...2024-01-121h 39Top Hill Recording PodcastBuck the Taxidermist - Lexington, Kentucky's Kyle AyresLexington, Kentucky-based singer/songwriter Kyle Ayres goes by the name Buck the Taxidermist. The inception of this musical project occurred in 2015 when Kyle, then performing with a string band, felt a compelling need to capture his personal musical expressions. Buck the Taxidermist emerged from fragments of songs that had been simmering in Kyle's mind for years. Whether performing with a band, featuring a rotating lineup of Kentucky friends, or going solo, Kyle's creative direction draws inspiration from a mix of contemporary and vintage influences. His musical palette encompasses the modern sounds of The War on Drugs, Wilco, and Dr. Dog...2023-12-221h 04Top Hill Recording PodcastEarl Bowman - Following a Dream
Earl Bowman is a 30 year old singer/songwriter from Louisville, Kentucky. He got his start at open mics around town and just began gigging in 2022. Earl's goal over that year was to do as much as he could to be taken seriously by the other great artists in the Louisville music scene. Earl recently released the final song off of his debut EP, and he is currently working in the studio on new music. Earl aims to be honest in his songwriting and open about his mental health. Music is something he's always wanted to pursue and he's had...2023-05-1959 minTop Hill Recording PodcastFrankie Leo - Singer/Songwriter Discusses Roots and Latest Album ReleaseFrankie Leo is a singer/songwriter who currently lives in Louisville, KY with his wife McKenzie and two boys, Rowan and Dawson. He grew up in the Shenandoah Valley of Staunton Virginia where he started to write and record music in the study room of the house where he was raised. Since then, he has released a handful of records and songs, a few of which you can access online today on most streaming platforms. He writes songs about nature, family, faith and even stories about others and draws inspiration from artists like Jackson Browne, Chris Stapleton, John Denver...2022-12-231h 00Top Hill Recording PodcastDan Zlotnick - The Americana Voice of Westchester County, New YorkDan, Neil, and Brad discuss dedication, commitment, performance anxiety, confidence, competition, and other parallels between athletics and music performance.
Dan Zlotnick has been called the “Americana voice of Westchester [County, NY]”. He writes songs that make any stage feel like your living room. A former independent minor league baseball player, Dan turned to music full-time in 2016 upon the release of his self-titled debut EP. He has built a passionate audience with his subsequent releases, tireless performing, and an earnest drive towards meaningful connections with listeners. Whether he is playing on stages like Tarrytown Music Hall, Paramount Hudson Valley...2022-11-251h 07
Top Hill Recording PodcastShooting the Breeze with Brent and LeeAfter a last minute cancellation, Neil and Brad invite friends, Brent West and Lee Donohue, to the studio. Conversation touches on learning music, goals, songwriting, bonfire jams, recognizing and respecting progress in playing, Marcus King, The Ryman Auditorium, studio plugins, cataloging songs, memorizing lyrics, friendship, making an album, and more. Plus, two previously unheard original songs. All this in one hour.2022-06-241h 03Top Hill Recording PodcastAndrew Rinehart - Musical ChameleonFirst active musically as a teenager in Louisville’s underground hardcore scene, Rinehart's first band Flight Nineteen played with seminal underground acts like At The Drive In, Joan of Arc, Avail & By The Grace of God.
His first solo album “Memories Are Hunting Horns," released in 2010 under the pseudonym “Saredren Wells”, featured a new and very different direction, situating him alongside off-kilter folk artists like Daniel Johnston, & Bonnie “Prince” Billy. He toured briefly following the release, sharing the stage with fellow troubadours Steve Gunn & famed queer folk artist Ed Askew.
Relocating to NYC, Rinehart co-founded both The Bod...2022-02-181h 05Top Hill Recording PodcastGoodbye to 2021Neil and Brad reflect on two years of the Top Hill Recording Podcast and nine months of One Shot One Mic One Song. They also discuss what they would like to see in the future.2022-01-071h 02Top Hill Recording PodcastMark Cline - Love Tractor - Pioneers of the Renowned Athens, GA Rock SceneLove Tractor is a band from Athens, Georgia, founded in the spring of 1980 by guitarists Mark Cline, Mike Richmond and bassist Armistead Wellford, students at the University of Georgia. Mark and his friends were self-described misfits at UGA's art school. The art school comprised 200 of the 35,000 or so students. This close knit group entertained themselves with raucous house parties where music was provided by some of the musically inclined in their visual art school circle. Little did they know that they were creating what would become the center of alternative college rock in the early 80's. This unintentional "movement"...2021-09-171h 04Top Hill Recording PodcastElk Hound - Andrew Iafrate and FriendsElk Hound is primarily the work of Louisville-based singer/songwriter Andrew Iafrate and the many musicians in his orbit. They draw influences from many corners of American traditions.....rock, folk, blues, and country, with feet planted firmly in the DIY ethos of their punk-rock forebears. They are currently working on a follow-up record to their 2020 EP “The Hated Sun.” Hear more at elk-hound.bandcamp.com and @elk__hound on Instagram.2021-09-1046 minTop Hill Recording PodcastJeremy Pinnell - Country Music Singer/SongwriterJeremy Pinnell, a country singer/songwriter from Northern Kentucky, is a soft-spoken man whose music is making big noise with country music fans. Raised from humble beginnings of singing in church and learning the guitar from his father, his craft quickly made heads turn and rooms fall silent. Jeremy released his debut album, "OH/KY" in 2015. "OH/KY" tells the story of his life after leaving home at 17 with brutal honesty. In 2017, Jeremy released "Ties of Blood and Affection" and his newest project "Goodbye LA" is scheduled to be released in full on October 1, 2021. "Goodbye LA" taps into the deep...2021-09-0343 minTop Hill Recording PodcastJay Skaggs - Kentucky Roots SongwriterJay Skaggs is a Kentucky born and based songwriter. His songs are influenced by bluegrass, grunge, punk, country and more. True to his roots, Jay provides the listener with a glimpse into his identity and lived experiences through his songs. Jay's style hits the heart and he is steadily building a loyal fan base. You can find a few of his videos here and there on the internet and his songs at jayskaggs.bandcamp.com. He assures us there is much more to come. Give him a follow on Instagram and look for him soon in your town as...2021-08-2750 minTop Hill Recording PodcastCasey Powell - Creative Experimental Fusion ArtistThe electric Casey Powell is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, vocalist, and creative director from Louisville, Kentucky. Though he is passionate about many artistic endeavors, his love is his Stratocaster. Casey built his chops fronting the family band Powell before evolving into the dynamic solo artist he is today. He stays involved in many projects, including production and sound design for psychedelic-indie group Spooky Diamonds. An avid practice advocate, Casey has teamed up with some of the heaviest hitting musicians in the Louisville region to bring listeners an eclectic blend of pop, groove, rock, funk, and psychedelia to make experimental fusion...2021-08-2050 minTop Hill Recording PodcastThe Hill Figs - Life Stories Through SongWhat do you get when you mix an inexperienced singer/songwriter, a Craigslist band ad, and a rhythm section that jumps onstage......uninvited......at a wedding party. In this case, you get outstanding songs! Meet The Hill Figs.2021-08-1343 minTop Hill Recording PodcastSmall Time Napoleon - New Ideas and Old SoundsSmall Time Napoleon (STN) is the combination of new ideas and old sounds. Their interest in the jazz standards of the swing-era shine through in their voices, writing, and playing, while their ear for new sounds and ideas constantly drives them forward. STN was born in the spring of 2013 after Dan Hardin and Jeff Thomas sought to expand their sound beyond an acoustic duo. Dave Neill (bass) and Zack Kennedy (drums) complete the foursome, with each member's input contributing to unique, rock-solid, and timeless music.2021-08-0643 minTop Hill Recording PodcastZach Longoria - Kentucky Fried SoulZach Longoria set out in 2013 to assemble a band of like-minded musicians capable of creating great sounds. The result was The Zach Longoria Project (ZLP). ZLP is an 11-member band from Louisville rooted in R&B with interwoven elements of jazz and a touch of old-school-this-and-that......the recipe for what they like to call "Kentucky Fried Soul". More recently, Zach has been recording in collaboration with Casey Powell as Unusual Heat.2021-07-3035 minTop Hill Recording PodcastAnne Gauthier - Producer/EngineerAnne Gauthier is the Chief Engineer/Producer at La La Land Sound in Louisville, Kentucky. La La Land is an analog/digital based recording studio built around a 40 channel vintage Trident board. With a full array of classic analog gear, a comfortable, dreamy environment to create in, and a 2500 square foot tracking room with 3 isolation booths, it is a perfect environment to create, explore, and record any dream album. La La Land has been home to many local and national recording artists – My Morning Jacket, Ray Lamontagne, Horse Feathers and Basia Bulat among others.
Anne is originally fro...2021-07-2349 minTop Hill Recording PodcastLuke Powers - Genre-blurring Singer/SongwriterLuke Powers has written, recorded and performed with touring bands locally, nationally and internationally since 2008. Luke's musical influences are as varied as his style and genre-blurring background. He first learned to play gospel in church at age 12. Soon, his musical journey led him to punk rock house shows in Southern Indiana, then indie rock on the stages of Brooklyn. He further evolved with southern rock on the Sunset Strip and finally to country in the roadside honky-tonks of Southern Georgia. Luke has given up the "hired-gun" lifestyle to focus on his calling as a singer/songwriter, creating honest Americana...2021-07-1651 minTop Hill Recording PodcastMark Fleshman - Continually EvolvingMark Fleshman is a Louisville, Kentucky musician originally from Ashland, Kentucky. Mark's musical journey has has taken him through many genres and directions and continues to evolve. He is currently in a trio called The Mark Fleshman Band with Austin Reynolds and Tommy Sugrue. The Mark Fleshman Band recently released some country tunes and are currently recording a new project that will have a new rock sound.2021-07-0239 minTop Hill Recording PodcastTyler Lance Walker Gill - Honky Tonk Singer/SongwriterTyler Lance Walker Gill is a country singer/songwriter from Bullitt County, Kentucky. He is a self-described "honky tonk evangelist, spreading the gospel of country music to any barroom that’ll have him". TLWG spent much of his formative years at a country music jamboree in Mt. Washington, Kentucky where his mother would often sing. This experience, unknowingly to him, embedded country roots deep in his soul to later resurface in the TLWG sound we hear today. TLWG cut his teeth playing covers before venturing into writing original music and putting together some of the best local talent, including Bo...2021-06-251h 08Top Hill Recording PodcastSons of Liberty - UK's Southern Rock BandRocking stages since 2014, Sons of Liberty are the UK's own original Hard Southern Rock Band, drawn together by a shared love of the incredible music of the Southern States of America. Sons of Liberty's first release was their 2018 debut EP "Shinola", 5 tracks of hard hitting southern rock'n'roll. The follow up "Aged in Oak" was released later that year, stepping things up a notch and featuring the single "Damned If You Do" which was voted #4 EP of The Year by New Wave Of Classic Rock. In 2019, the band wrote and recorded their LP Animism. Sons will be releasing and their new album, "Ac...2021-06-181h 08Top Hill Recording PodcastHosting a House Concert - James Stapleton and Mark RobertsJames Stapleton and Mark Roberts are just regular dudes who love and support musicians and the music community by hosting unique experiences at their homes. James hosts concerts at "The Barn" at his home in Simpsonville, Kentucky. Mark offers the living room of his home for "Live at Long Run" in Louisville, Kentucky. Both provide wonderfully intimate music shows unlike any coffeehouse, club, or concert hall. If you haven't attended a home concert, the connection between the listener and the performer(s) at these events will be difficult to understand. James and Mark make their events known through social...2021-06-111h 35Top Hill Recording PodcastJ Lee and the Hoodoo Skulls - Bluesy Roots with 50's Rock SwaggerJ Lee and The Hoodoo Skulls, from Surrey UK, were formed when lead singer J Lee Barratt had a yearning to make a traditional rock 'n roll/blues album. J Lee has been around roots music all his life and this foundation led to a love of roots and blues music. Fronted by J Lee, with Harun Kotch (lead guitarist and co-writer/producer), Wayne Riches (drums) and Mike Hartnett (bass), J Lee and the Hoodoo Skulls create a sound so punchy you'll forget that they come from the UK. Gutsy, edgy, and raw are just some of the words...2021-06-041h 00Top Hill Recording PodcastPeyton Boling and Dev Hovis - Folkternative Folkgrunge Roots/AmericanaIf John Prine, Merle Travis, and Chris Stapleton had a baby that was raised in Seattle by Chris Cornell, you might get something like the 23 year old singer-songwriter Peyton Boling. Peyton is creating melodic noise out of Mortons Gap, KY. Dev Hovis is from the band Possum Junction. Possum Junction is a self-described "outlaw folkternative roots band" comprised of a unique collective of musicians from Southern Indiana and Kentucky offering a genuine and fresh take on Roots/Americana. Peyton and Dev recently joined forces and have committed to music fulltime. Visit One Shot One Mic One Song on YouTube...2021-05-2840 minTop Hill Recording PodcastCaitlin Koch - Retro Soul Singer/SongwriterCaitlin Koch is a Nashville-based retro soul artist, singer & songwriter best known for her performances as the singing rugby coach on Simon Cowell's production, The X Factor USA. After stunning audiences worldwide with her soulful rendition of "Stop In The Name Of Love" by The Supremes, Caitlin would go on to tour nationally under Abdul Inc. (Paula Abdul).
Caitlin has shared stages with Pat Benatar, Grace Potter, The Goo Goo Dolls, Gavin DeGraw, Cassadee Pope, The B52's, Blood Sweat & Tears, Bo Bice, Colt Ford, Danielle Bradbery, Avril Lavigne, Paula Abdul, Derek St. Holmes, Lance Diamond, Lauren Al...2021-05-2150 minTop Hill Recording PodcastZebulon Tuck - A Random Dude Who Loves Making MusicTop Hill Recording and Zebulon and Company crossed paths on Instagram. Zeb Tuck is just a random dude who has a deep passion for music and creating. He is a singer/songwriter and guitar player whose primary goal in music is gratification. Whether music takes him anywhere beyond personal fulfillment and fun is not important to Zeb. He has, in his words, "managed to wrangle a band of world class humans and musicians" to record and release two singles with more in the making. Where will Zeb's music take him? Who knows......and Zeb doesn't care. He's enjoying and...2021-05-1451 minTop Hill Recording PodcastAlastair Greene - Guitarist, Singer and SongwriterGuitarist, Singer, and Songwriter Alastair Greene has been a mainstay of the Southern California music scene for three decades. Following a 2018 live album that celebrated the 20th anniversary of his noteworthy Alastair Greene Band, the singer-songwriter/guitarist returns with an inspired solo collection, "The New World Blues".
A much in-demand guitarist and vocalist, Greene has traveled the world, touring with the legendary Alan Parsons Live Project from 2010 – 2017, as well as stints with Starship featuring Mickey Thomas and, most recently, Blues Music Award-winner Sugaray Rayford. His work with Parsons, in particular, sparked a conversation with renowned multi-instrumentalist and produce...2021-05-0759 minTop Hill Recording PodcastAaron Bibelhauser - Award Winning Bluegrass Singer/SongwriterAaron Bibelhauser is a singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist from Louisville, KY. In addition to writing songs recorded by award winning bluegrass artists including Balsam Range, Del McCoury Band, Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper, and Dale Ann Bradley, he's taken first place in the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest at Merlefest and earned a nomination for the IBMA's prestigious Song Of The Year Award. An accomplished solo recording artist, radio broadcaster, producer, and session player, Bibelhauser also fronts the Kentucky based bluegrass band, Relic (with his twin brother Adam), and recently joined forces with other accomplished Bluegrass artists to form the band Wolfpen...2021-04-301h 01Top Hill Recording PodcastThe Lovelorn - New Americana/Blues Rock BandLongtime best friends Keagan Cross (Vocals/Guitar), John Peters (Drums), and Ricky Stone (Bass) are the Illinois based Americana/Blues rock band The Lovelorn. Formed during the pandemic year of 2020, The Lovelorn have created a sound that feels familiar, but is all their own. Catchy riffs with memorable choruses and imagery filled lyrics, The Lovelorn have found a way to incorporate the ways of old for a modern audience. Back woodsy blues vibes with a modern twist, The Lovelorn have been striving to breathe new life in the genre with their refreshing perspective. With their debut album: "May You Find...2021-04-231h 02Top Hill Recording PodcastBurton Car - Radio Ritual - Rock N' Roll w/ a MessageLos Angeles based Radio Ritual is singer Juan Carlos Sanchez, guitarists Burton Car and Mac Perez, drummer Eduardo Baldo, and bassist Tinu Cer. This group of Argentine, Spanish, Brazilian, and Mexican-American musicians came together by chance and aspire to be advocates for change. Guitarist Burton Car talks to us about Radio Ritual's unique rock which is purposeful and aims to champion every-day people while highlighting relevant humanitarian issues. The band stayed busy during the pandemic shut down. Look for their singles, videos, and live performances on streaming/video/social platforms.2021-04-161h 01Top Hill Recording PodcastSpencer Corbin - Galloup Guitars Masters ProgramNeil's bandmate and mentee, Spencer Corbin, discusses his experience at the Bryan Galloup School of Guitar Building and Repair. Spencer was a student in the school's Masters Program where Master Luthier Bryan Galloup teaches the most advanced topics in modern Lutherie. The Master Program is 24 weeks (960+ hours) of full-time guitar making in the Galloup shop. After six months of intense training, Spencer has a solid understanding of what it takes to make a living in guitar building and repair.
2021-04-0948 minTop Hill Recording PodcastGuy Keltner - Acid Tongue - Timeless Rock w/ a DIY MentalityAcid Tongue has been touring the world and espousing a timeless rock & roll sound with a DIY mentality since 2015. The touring band features a rotating roster of musicians from around the globe (with members based in Seattle, Paris, New York, London, Mexico City, Los Angeles, & Austin) lending fresh ears to the setlist for an ever-evolving live experience. Employing nostalgic riffs lifted straight from a forgotten jukebox and razor-sharp lyrics delivered in a childish croon, Guy Keltner has built a large catalogue of material in a short period of time.
Dismayed by their hometown of Seattle’s "devolution in...2021-04-0258 minTop Hill Recording PodcastTodd Whitener - Blisskrieg - 2021 SupergroupTodd Whitener and his longtime bandmates, Jesse Vest and Matt Taul from Days of the New and Tantric, have joined forces with Donald Carpenter to build a new supergroup called Blisskrieg. Todd bought his first guitar from a pawn shop in his hometown of Louisville, KY in 1992 and by 1995 was playing with Jesse, Matt, and Travis Meeks in Platinum Award winning Days of the New......while still teenagers. After Days, Todd, Jesse and Matt founded Tantric and continued to maintain contact over the years. Todd later connected with Donald Carpenter in a series of events that could not have been...2021-03-261h 07Top Hill Recording PodcastJas Morris - Firekind - UK Modern Rock Three PieceJas Morris is a Guitarist Magazine "Guitarist of the Year" award winner. In 2013 his band Firekind won the Global Battle of the Bands competition in Thailand. The band consists of brothers Jas (vocals, guitar), Dan Morris (bass, keys) and Robin Shute (drums). Jas and Firekind were playing around 2-300 shows a year all over Europe before the Covid-19 shut down. They have supported Calvin Harris, Feeder, Wishbone Ash, Walter Trout, Tinie Tempah, Reef, Toploader, Texas and many others. Firekind’s debut album “What I Have Found is Already Lost” was recorded at the Hollywood based studio of legendary producer Alain...2021-03-1954 minTop Hill Recording PodcastTyler Boone - Music, Bourbon, and Artist ServicesTyler Boone grew up in the Lowcountry of Charleston, SC. starting his music career in the small club rock scene. Recognized in 2017 as the runner-up to Darius Rucker for the Best Musician and Vocalist of Charleston, Tyler slowly started playing major music venues and opening for artists such as Sheryl Crow, The Avett Brothers, Sublime with Rome, Christopher Cross, Hootie and the Blowfish, Old Crow Medicine Show, The Silversun Pickups, Robert Randolph, Will Hoge, Canadian songwriter Donovan Woods, Platinum selling artist Edwin McCain, Zach Myers of Shinedown, The Revivalists, The Marcus King Band, Sean McConnell, Dr. John, Rayland Baxter...2021-03-121h 06Top Hill Recording PodcastBrett Ralph - Louisville Authority on Music/Literature/ArtBrett Ralph is the owner of Surface Noise, a record/book store and art gallery in Louisville, KY. Brett's life experiences are an eclectic, complex mix of Southern working-class culture, punk rock, Buddhism, academia, athletics, literature, activism.....and much, much more, which makes him quite the interesting dude. We cover a lot in this one hour conversation!2021-03-051h 04Top Hill Recording PodcastDerek Day - Los Angeles PhenomBorn and raised in Los Angeles, Derek Day infuses rock, R&B, soul, punk and pop as he engages and captivates the audience with high-energy musical theatrics. His lead guitar skills are a perfect accompaniment to his burning, gritty, soulful contralto vocals. Derek is a self-taught guitarists who honed his amazing skills through performing on the streets of Santa Monica since he was 13. A few months after releasing his first solo EP in Summer 2016, he opened for the final days of Steve Vai's 25th Anniversary tour of the Passion And Warfare album. This quick success launched a snowball that...2021-02-261h 04Top Hill Recording PodcastThe Bad Day Blues Band - The UK's Hottest Modern Blues BandThe Bad Day Blues Band exploded onto the scene in 2017, playing Times Square in New York City with double Grammy Award winner Delbert McClinton. This was followed by two critically acclaimed performances at The Isle Of Wight Festival in 2018 and 2019. The Bad Day Blues Band has wowed audiences at many of the UK’s major festivals and has garnered glowing reviews from BBC Radio 2, Bassplayer Magazine, Planet Rock, Record Box Reviews, London Live TV, and many more. Winner of the Digital Blues Awards Best New Blues Band 2019, they have played alongside artists such as The Killers, Kirk Fletcher, Ben Po...2021-02-191h 11Top Hill Recording PodcastDusty Bo - Moving On as a Solo ArtistDusty Bo is a Louisville, Kentucky alt-rock artist with what many would consider a charmed musical history. Years ago, Dusty packed his bags and moved to Los Angeles with his band. In L.A., he experienced "the dream" of recording at Sunset Sound and NRG Studios, touring the globe, and packing recognizable venues such as the Viper Room, the Troubadour, and The Whiskey A GoGo. However, Dusty wasn't happy and decided in 2017 to leave the band and venture out on his own. Now back in Kentucky and on the solo route, Dusty Bo has built quite a following. With...2021-02-121h 17
Top Hill Recording PodcastBonus 9 - The Clavis Isley BandGoing back to Season One for this Bonus Episode featuring a project from the Clavis Isley Band, Ruby Jewel (2000). The Clavis Isley Band was Sharon, Andy, Cheryl, and Ron Weston along with drummer Clavis Isley, who has never missed a beat.
1. Ruby Jewel 2. Too Much Like Elvis 3. I Saw the Devil Tonight 4. Wasted 5. It's Only Make Believe2021-02-1017 minTop Hill Recording PodcastFabrizio Grossi - Veteran Musician/Producer/BassistFabrizio Grossi is an Italian-American bass player, producer and record industry consultant known for his vast array of talents and his long list of collaborations. As a producer and mixer, Fabrizio’s list of collaborations covers legendary names like Leslie West, Billy F. Gibbons, George Clinton & P. Funk, Alice Cooper, Steve Vai, Warren Haynes, Slash, Joe Bonamassa, Glenn Hughes, Steve Lukather, Eric Gales, Zakk Wylde, Gary Clark Jr, Ice T and many, many more. And as bass player, he has appeared on countless recordings and live performances featuring the likes of Steve Vai, Robben Ford, Walter Trout, Billy F. Gi...2021-02-051h 14Top Hill Recording PodcastFour Gate Whiskey Company - Bob D'AntoniBob D'Antoni is Chief Barrel Officer for Four Gate Whiskey Company. Four Gate blends the highest quality whiskey available and collaborates on each batch with the barrel experts at Kelvin Cooperage to produce new, unique, and exciting batches of barrel-finished craft American Whiskey for bourbon and whiskey connoisseurs. Four Gate is quickly collecting awards, including "2020 Barrel Finished Whiskey of the Year".2021-01-291h 17Top Hill Recording PodcastSteve Morgan - Killer Bassist and Vinyl CollectorNeil reconnects with another Voodoo Symphony bandmate, Steve Morgan. Steve talks about becoming a bass player by default, the great times during college with Neil and Voodoo, his extensive vinyl collection, and more.2021-01-221h 04Top Hill Recording PodcastDave Wilson - One Improvisation Band; One Composition BandDave Wilson is a Louisville, Kentucky musician. He is in two very different bands with very different approaches to writing, recording, and performing music. Dave talks with Neil and Brad about both bands and his path to where he is today.2021-01-151h 02Top Hill Recording PodcastNick Dittmeier - Southern Indiana Singer/SongwriterNick Dittmeier is a singer-songwriter from Southern Indiana. He’s released two solo EP’s, “Extra Better” in 2013 and “Light of Day” in 2014. With the support of his backing/touring band, The Sawdusters, he has released two full length albums, “Midwest Heart/ Southern Blues” in 2016 and “All Damn Day” in 2018. These albums are gritty collections of songs, full of characters who were developed while staring over the dash of a beat up tour van, cruising through towns all over the South and Midwest. His newest release, “Companion (Extended Edition)”, features a four song studio collection from 2019 on Side A. Side B, titled “Alive Fr...2021-01-0843 minTop Hill Recording PodcastBoone Froggett - OTIS - Kentucky Southern Blues RockBoone Froggett is lead vocalist and guitarist for Kentucky band, OTIS. OTIS has built quite of collection of fans, including ZZ Top guitarist Billy Gibbons who gives this glowing endorsement, " The OTIS disc is stunning. Fine singing, authentically talented harp work, sweet guitar tones... all around enjoyable listening. Done burned it into the hard drive...!"2021-01-0145 minTop Hill Recording PodcastMojoThunder - A Kentucky Band to Watch in 2021MojoThunder is a four-piece rock band from Kentucky. They blend high-energy rock with southern harmony, for an engaging sound they’ve dubbed as “Southern-Alternative.” Their first LP “Hymns from the Electric Church” will be available on all streaming services Spring 2021. Mojo has made quite an impact in a relatively short period of time. Keep this band on your radar in 2021!2020-12-2552 minTop Hill Recording PodcastBonus 8 - Jondra Nicole Adkins w/ Blakeley BurgerMusic Only Bonus Episode. Kentucky duo of singer/songwriter Jondra Nicole Adkins and fiddler Blakeley Burger perform "Hotel Song" and "Coyote" live during Top Hill Recording Podcast Episode 40 at Top Hill Recording Studio. 2020-12-2206 minTop Hill Recording PodcastBrooks Ritter - Caught in the Devil's TeethBrooks Ritter debuted Stereo of Steel August 26, 2016 and is currently in the process of releasing a new EP, Ghost Come To Life. Ritter is a Louisville, Kentucky native musician, and his music ranges from “soul to roots music, with a little indie-rock.” Ritter has toured with various bands including Sara Watkins from Nickel Creek, Greg Laswell, Anderson East, Zella Day, Ben Sollee, and others.
Visit "One Shot One Mic One Song" on YouTube to hear this artist recorded live with a minimalist one mic approach from the past.2020-12-1849 minTop Hill Recording PodcastBonus 7 - Jeff Donohue Christmas AlbumMusic only bonus episode. Check out Jeff Donohue's Christmas Classics.2020-12-1718 minTop Hill Recording PodcastGemma - Lush, Ethereal, Dreamy SoundscapesGemma is a Kentucky-based band of five friends since middle school who create lush, ethereal, dreamy soundscapes that span tranquil to ominous and has been coined by the band as "Freedom Lake Rock".2020-12-1158 minTop Hill Recording PodcastSouthern Governor - Heavy Southern Rock with a Grunge FlavorSouthern Governor is a rock and roll band with a distinctive sound that might be described as heavy, crunchy southern rock with a gritty, grungy cherry on top. From the backwoods of Gainesboro, Virginia, this trio of Galanis brothers provides a monstrously wonderful wall of sound.2020-12-0458 minTop Hill Recording PodcastJondra Nicole Adkins - New Kentucky Based Singer/SongwriterJondra Nicole grew up in the ruggedly scenic Appalachian Mountains before venturing away from Eastern Kentucky. Jondra just released "Drown It Out", a 5 song EP that successfully paints lyrical pictures of her travels through life, both the ups and the downs. Jondra and her fiddle player, Blakeley Burger, not only talk music with Brad and Neil, but they also record a few live songs.
Visit "One Shot One Mic One Song" on YouTube to hear this artist recorded live with a minimalist one mic approach from the past.2020-11-2751 minTop Hill Recording PodcastTrey Hensley - IBMA Guitar Player of the Year NomineeAfter picking up a guitar at the age of 10, Trey Hensley quickly took the bluegrass world by storm. Through the years, Trey has had the opportunity to perform with the likes of Marty Stuart, Earl Scruggs, Johnny and June Carter Cash, Charlie Daniels, Steve Wariner, The Oak Ridge Boys, Ricky Skaggs, Blue Highway, J.D. Crowe and many others. He was recently nominated for the 2020 International Bluegrass Guitar Player of the Year.2020-11-201h 09Top Hill Recording PodcastBrecken Miles - Transforming Life into SongBrecken Miles was a top ten finalist in the 2018 Nash Next Competition. He has shared the stage with Luke Bryan, Brad Paisley, Luke Combs, Cam, Blake Shelton, Phil Vassar, Big & Rich, Justin Moore, and most recently, Chris Janson.2020-11-1349 minTop Hill Recording PodcastJeff Donohue - Top Hill's Music Loving NeighborJeff Donohue, Top Hill Recording's friend and neighbor, wears many hats but music is his love. Jeff drops by the studio to kill some time with Neil and Brad.2020-11-0659 minTop Hill Recording PodcastRoots From The Clay - Jamaican Roots ReggaeBased in Houston, Roots From The Clay is Texas’ fast-rising Roots Reggae band. RFTC was conceived in May 2017 by Jamaican duo Jermaine “Songo” Wilson and wife Dr. Aria A. Wilson. Their music confronts real-world issues. Racial equality, poverty, and relationships are honestly examined through pulsing reggae beats. RFTC’s influences come from Jamaican Roots, Lovers' Rock and Dancehall Reggae music.2020-10-3058 minTop Hill Recording PodcastDolla Green - From 12 monthly Spotify listeners to 160,000+ in 40 daysRickey "Dolla" Green is gaining fans at an astounding rate and making a positive impact on many. His lyrics reflect his life and are delivered with raw emotion. Dolla is a versatile rapper who can touch every sentiment from pain to party!2020-10-2357 minTop Hill Recording PodcastStephen Allen Davis - Collaborative vs. Solo SongwritingStephen Allen Davis is back to share more of his experience, expertise, and stories, including songwriting collaboratively vs. solo and selling your songs. Also, stories from Stephen Allen's experiences with George Jones, Joe Cocker, and Tammy Wynette. 2020-10-1644 minTop Hill Recording PodcastEd Rice - Toir Guitars - Custom Acoustic GuitarsEd Rice is an artist and woodworker, focused on Lutherie, operating as Tóir Guitars. Lutherie is the making of wooden stringed musical instruments, such as guitars, mandolins and ukuleles. Focused on Acoustic Guitars and Ukueles, Ed trained under Master Luthier Harry Fleishman in Sebastopol, Ca. Additionally, Ed’s style has been influenced by another internationally known Luthier, Jeffrey Yong, of Kuala Lumpur. Ed has a passion for exotic woods in his instruments, such as Indian Rosewood, Monkeypod, KOA and others.2020-10-0953 min
Top Hill Recording PodcastBonus 6 - Shadwick WildeThree songs recorded live during the Top Hill Recording Podcast - Shadwick Wilde episode:
Easy Rider
When All of This is Over
Gardener's Blues2020-10-0710 min
Top Hill Recording PodcastBonus 5 - Voodoo SymphonyQuickie EP (1999)
Tied to the Tracks
Walking on a Wire
Downtown
Pinky Thing
Let Me Breathe
My Own Way2020-10-0720 minTop Hill Recording PodcastStephen Allen Davis - 18 BMI Songwriter Awards; 2 Grammy NominationsStephen Allen Davis wrote what would become his first hit song when he was 17 years old. Percy Sledge recorded Stephen Allen's song “Take Time to Know Her” and it soon soared up the charts. Since then Stephen Allen has had over 400 songs recorded by various artists (including Joe Cocker, Meat Loaf, Tammy Wynette, Reba McEntire, Barbara Mandrell, Jo Dee Messina, Charlie Rich, and more), received 18 BMI awards, been nominated twice for Grammys and has three Million Air Performance Award songs to his name. Stephen Allen's ORIGINAL DEMO OF " TAKE THE TIME TO KNOW HER" is included in this episode.2020-09-251h 18Top Hill Recording PodcastFrank Green - After You Master the Bass GuitarFrank Green has a reputation as one of the most proficient bassist in the region. Now, his focus is guitar and vocals with original band Silkwood Showers. Frank talks with Neil and Brad about his journey and his latest project, The Great Depression.2020-09-181h 07Top Hill Recording PodcastShadwick Wilde - Singer/SongwriterShadwick Wilde grew up in San Francisco, Havana, and Amsterdam, before settling in Kentucky at age 16 with his mother, an activist, poet, and filmmaker. At 18, Wilde dropped out of school to tour as a guitarist-for-hire in various hardcore-punk bands, including Dischord Records legacy act Iron Cross. He has toured Europe twice and criss-crossed North America ad nauseam. In late 2019, Wilde was introduced to drummer/producer Ken Coomer (Wilco, Uncle Tupelo), who invited him to come and record at his Cartoon Moon studios in Nashville, with an all-star band. After the first sessions were delayed by a tornado, and the m...2020-09-1152 minTop Hill Recording PodcastTaking Your Music from a Concept to a Released SongBrad and Neil talk about completing the first set of songs recorded and released from Top Hill Recording Studio. Not only do they discuss the recording, editing, and mixing process, but also the steps to get a song released on streaming services. This episode is a step-by-step guide to taking your music from a concept to a released song.2020-09-041h 07Top Hill Recording PodcastChris Floyd - Voodoo Symphony - Reconnecting with College Band MateNeil reconnects with Chris Floyd, a Voodoo Symphony band mate from his college days at the University of Kentucky.2020-08-281h 14Top Hill Recording PodcastRobert Henry - Bringing Back Country Music's Traditional RootsRobert Henry is bringing back country music's traditional roots. He recently released the EP "In the Works" which includes the 2020 World Songwriting Awards "Best Traditional Country Song", Storm the Gates. Robert joins Brad and Neil remotely from the 2020 Sturgis Bike Rally.2020-08-2156 min
Top Hill Recording PodcastBonus 4 - SooNer or LaTer (SoL)1. All American Girl; 2. This is Life; 3. Walking on Razorblades; 4. Jake Bickell; 5. Loaded Loser2020-08-1916 minTop Hill Recording PodcastRhyme Partners - Melissa Bollea Rowe - Award Winning Music Publishing CompanyRhyme Partners is an award winning music publishing company based in Nashville. Founder Melissa Bollea Rowe discusses songwriting, brand marketing, career coaching, professional development, and more.2020-08-141h 17Top Hill Recording PodcastMusick Harris - Bringing Back Old School R & BAt a young age, his grandfather introduced him to old school funk, soul and R & B. Now, Musick Harris turns out great baby-makin' music with that 90's vibe everyone loves. Musick talks with Neil and Brad about his current project and more.2020-08-0740 minTop Hill Recording PodcastTurn3 - Chris and Chad Donohue - Balancing Being Musicians, Fathers, and HusbandsTurn3 is an original Rock/Roots/Soul/Country band from Louisville, Kentucky. Chris and Chad's life experiences as musicians, fathers and husbands are poured into the music Turn3 creates. The end result is something very authentic. 2020-07-311h 21
Top Hill Recording PodcastBonus 3 - Sharon Smith Weston MusicThree Sharon Smith Weston songs that show why she was on fire in the 60's2020-07-2906 minTop Hill Recording PodcastSooner or Later (SoL) - Larry and Lee Reinhardt - Starting a Band with No ExperienceCan you successfully start a band, write songs, play shows, and record an album in a short period of time with no experience? ........ABSOLUTELY! Brad and Neil talk with Brad's cousins and former Sooner or Later band mates.2020-07-241h 02Top Hill Recording PodcastBlind Feline - Ollie Sayani and Matt Griffin - Funky Psychedelic Country RockLouisville's Blind Feline is a unique and versatile group of talented musicians that can't be described with one musical genre......let's go with funky psychedelic country rock with jazz influences and a blue-grass flair. Ollie and Matt discuss the band's new EP (Cicadas), origin of the band name, songwriting, and much more.
Visit "One Shot One Mic One Song" on YouTube to hear this artist recorded live with a minimalist one mic approach from the past.2020-07-1755 minTop Hill Recording PodcastDiamonds and Whiskey - Jenny Lauren Webb - Alt-Country w/ a Swampy Rock TwistJenny Webb and her band, Diamonds and Whiskey, have seen their popularity soar recently with the release of Heartbreak Queen. With rave reviews and airplay across the globe, Nashville Music Guide called Heartbreak Queen the best rocking country album of the year. Diamonds and Whiskey can be described as alt-country with a swampy rock twist.2020-07-1052 min
Top Hill Recording PodcastBonus 2 - Johnstone - Rocket (single)Louisville original band, Johnstone, released Rocket on July 4, 2020. Written by Neil Johnstone. Recorded and Produced at Top Hill Recording Studio.2020-07-0404 minTop Hill Recording PodcastSchool of Rock Louisville - Non-Traditional Approach to Music EducationDid you know that the guitar intro on AC/DC's "Thunderstruck" uses a B mixolydian scale? Melanie Scofield and Patrick Denney visit Top Hill Recording Podcast to discuss School of Rock. School of Rock takes a non-traditional approach to music education by teaching technique and theory through classic songs students love, combining one-on-one instruction with group rehearsals and live performances.2020-07-031h 09Top Hill Recording PodcastRyan Murphy/Tony Clark - Hottest Ticket for Entertainment EventsLooking for a stellar musical performance you and your guests can dance and sing to? Wax Factory and Full Contact Karaoke members, Ryan Murphy and Tony Clark, discuss what it takes to be one of the hottest tickets for entertainment events.2020-06-261h 17Top Hill Recording PodcastJyn Yates - Renowned Drummer, Radio Personality, LBGTQ Leader, Music Producer, and MoreJyn Yates is a music teacher, a writer, a renowned drummer, a radio personality, an LBGTQ leader, a lover of the arts, a music producer, and more! 2020-06-191h 04
Top Hill Recording PodcastBonus 1 - Johnstone: Live at The Odeon (Louisville, KY)Johnstone is an original band from Louisville, KY whose lead singer is also co-host of the Top Hill Recording Podcast. This show was recorded at The Odeon in Louisville, KY.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tophillrecording/support2020-06-171h 12Top Hill Recording PodcastSharon Smith Weston - Overnight Country Music StarSharon Smith Weston tells her story for the first time. A remarkable ride from cutting a demo for a local label to becoming one of the hottest new country stars, selling over 25,000 records in less than a month for Dot Records, in the short span of 18 months. Then......leaving it all for love.2020-06-121h 17Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 16 - Season One FinaleNeil and Brad discuss Episodes 8 - 15.
A H-U-G-E thank you to everyone for a successful Season One! See you soon with Season 2!2020-04-031h 01Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 15 - Jeni CarrJeni Carr is a gifted singer, songwriter, and performer. Her music has given her the opportunity to perform on stages big and small and share the spotlight with some of the nation’s most noted country artists.2020-03-271h 40Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 14 - Phil BrightPhil Bright, the owner of Louisville Recording Company, has been recording and producing music projects since 2001. He is an outstanding guitarist and a talented arranger, music writer, and audio engineer.2020-03-201h 49Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 13 - Andy WestonHow much can be packed into one life? Andy Weston talks about his 60+ years in music, theater, and literature.2020-03-131h 54Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 12 - Jeremy SharfeJeremy Sharfe is never idle......but he sits down with Neil and Brad long enough to discuss songwriting, playing live music, recording in Nashville, and more!2020-03-061h 37Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 11 - Ian TruaxIan Truax talks about his band, Acquainted Strangers, and the genre coined "Louisville Alternative"2020-02-281h 27Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 10 - Larry BondLarry Bond started The Misfits in the 60's and most recently played percussion in Ode 2 the Gnu.2020-02-211h 22Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 9 - Brent WestBrent West talks music and shares several of his original creations......for the first time EVER!2020-02-141h 35Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 8 - Spencer CorbinSpencer Corbin, Neil's protege and our youngest guest to date on the podcast, talks with Brad and Neil about rocking with dad, attending performing arts schools, upcoming college, and more.2020-02-071h 15Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 7 - Lucky SevenNeil and Brad explore the impossible question, "What are you three favorite songs?". Also, progress with the podcast and recording studio.2020-01-311h 22Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 6 - Roger HigdonRoger Higdon has played music in Louisville, KY and the surrounding area for nearly 40 years. Roger joins Neil and Brad to discuss his musical trek from the early "lessons" with his dad to his current band, The Wilson Brothers.2020-01-242h 16Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 5 - Loa's SongNeil and Brad record a Toeupu Liu original, Loa's Song, during the podcast recording.2020-01-171h 14Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 4 - Toeupu LiuToe joins Neil and Brad to discuss his musical journey from early life to college, piano to guitar, opera to pop, University of Kentucky to Belmont, and much more2020-01-101h 24Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 3 - EgoNeil shares an honest discussion of ego and how his musical perspective has evolved over time2020-01-0358 minTop Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 2 - Ron WestonNeil and Brad discuss music with Brad's dad, Ron......life stories, the forgotten music history of Lebanon, KY, the recording of There She Goes, and more.2019-12-271h 19Top Hill Recording PodcastEpisode 1 - First StepsTop Hill Recording Episode 1 introduces the listener to Brad and Neil as they explore the songwriting process, playing live music, and recording music.2019-12-211h 10