Shows
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—The Ghouls recap an epic 2024My next guests have had one hell of a 2024, with big wins at the Rock and Roll Rumble and Boston Music Awards. Let’s see how 2025 is going with The Ghouls.
Band members George Danahy, Peter Trainor and Jacob Babcock join me to talk about taking first place at Boston’s 2024 Rock and Roll Rumble and winning “Rock Act of the Year” at the Boston Music Awards.
We go into the release of their debut album, “Handle With Care” and the sold-out show at the Middle East. The guys also share some details of what to expect la...2025-07-2228 min
Citywide BlackoutChelsea Curve has new music you’ll “Kindawanna” hearThe Chelsea Curve have had a busy 2025.
From West Coast shows with the UK band Sharp Class to being back in the studio, this band — inspired by Boston and British culture — has done a lot, with much more to come.
In this episode, Curtis and Max talk with band members Linda Pardee and Tim Gillis about recent shows and tours of the UK, along with some of the great bands they’ve met and venues that they’ve played at. They dive into their love of mod style and sound and the unique fashion t...2025-07-1845 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Ben Hutcheson takes us through the UK country sceneMy next guest’s recent single “Almost There” really caught my attention, and now he’s here to talk about this and a lot more. Singer songwriter Ben Hutcheson joins me to share the real-life inspiration behind his March release, “Almost There” as well as what motivates him to pick up the pen and write a new song.
Ben’s part of the UK country scene, which has been around for a few years now. We talk about how it’s influenced in part by country music in the U.S., but also the ways it stands on its own. Ben...2025-07-1424 min
Citywide BlackoutWestern Education grows with sophomore albumWe’ve been a fan of the band Western Education for years now, and with their new full-length album, “Millennial Youth” they’ve hit a new high point with their music. Band members Greg Alexandropoulos (vocals, keyboards) and Will Hunt (bass, production) return to Citywide to talk about the stories told throughout the album, and how it all got started.
Will and Greg go into their favorite songs, and their criteria for how they went from 16 tracks to 13. We talk about the upcoming release show and how it’ll feel to perform the entire album. Six singles from the al...2025-07-1140 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—A musical ride with The Far OutI’ve been thoroughly enjoying the sounds of my next guest The Far Out and in just a week, they’re releasing their debut album. Ryan Fremont-Smith and Drew Phillips (AKA The Drum and Bass Connection) join me to talk all about the “Greetings From the Far Out,” out on July 11.
We take a deep dive into the sound of the new album, which includes a wide range of instrumentation and a story that brings it all together. The guys share what it was like working with the one and only Sean McLaughlin and what they have in mind...2025-07-0826 min
Citywide BlackoutHallelujah the Hills’ “Deck” encompasses more than two years of musicBoston-based Hallelujah the Hills have released a brand new project called “Deck” a 52-song, four LP collection of music more than two years in the making. It’s an epic collection of songs that encompass all sorts of styles and has been in the mind of band member Ryan H. Walsh for the last 25 years.
In this episode, Ryan talks about the origin of “Deck” and the multi-year process to complete it. He talks about the distinct sounds of each LP, as well as the artwork he created and the app that people can use to make the...2025-07-0440 min
Citywide BlackoutWorlds come together in Susan Fletcher’s new bookThe classic tale “The Little Mermaid” gets a futuristic spin in “Sea Change” by Susan Fletcher. In this story, a gene-hack gone wrong produces babies born with an extra set of lungs and gills. Here’s a look at the story:
“Living in a post-climate change world, one young woman lives peacefully among other gene-hacked friends off the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. But when she falls in love with a ‘Normal,’ someone without the gene mutation, and finds out that her father has been released from prison for the gene-hack accident, Turtle must choose between being herself am...2025-06-2728 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—"Intersections” gives the impossible choicePicture this: A fatal hit and run has been committed, and you think you know who did it. Problem is, it’s someone you know. Do you do the right thing, or protect a person who means the world to you?
That’s the choice given to Charlotte Oakes, in Karen Uhlmann’s debut novel, “Intersections” (She Writes Press). We talk all about Charlotte and how this decision impacts both her and the plot. Karen goes into the origin of the book and how her “pantser” writing style led to some interesting changes in the story. We also talk abou...2025-06-2320 min
Citywide BlackoutA two-year anniversary for 'This Town is on Fire'It was two years ago on June 20 that Pamela N. Harris published her young adult thriller “This Town is on Fire.”
The book takes on the internet “Karen” and how protagonist Naomi Henry responds when her best friend Kylie is shown in a video calling the cops on two Black teens. The novel dives into contemporary issues that dominate today’s headlines, making it a must-read for the digital age.
Harris talked with us about how it feels to hit this milestone and the book’s relevance to today. She talks about Naomi and Kylie and how thei...2025-06-2030 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Lana Carter’s new soundMy next guest has just released two new singles, but she’s far from a newcomer to the world of music. In fact, Lana Carter has been recording since she was 10 years old, and her latest releases, “Only at Night” and “Venom” mark a reinvention of herself as an artist.
In this episode, Lana talks about what led to this new chapter in her musical journey and how she’s grown as an artist. She goes into her first song at age 10, and the different topics she’s captured in her music since then. She also shares the stories be...2025-06-1624 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—New book explores surviving, healing from childhood sexual abuseFor this episode, we’ll taking on a very serious topic. Babs Walters’ memoir, “Facing the Jaguar” (June 17, She Writes Press) shares her story of surviving childhood sexual abuse (CSA), and her journey of healing after 70 years of secrecy.
In this interview, Babs talks about her past, and how she embarked on a journey of healing that continues to this day. We talk about her parents, their own background and the decision to write this book.
Babs goes into the writing process, which was a struggle at times, and her perspective on what happened to her once...2025-06-0921 min
Citywide BlackoutTaking a ride on the “Kill Train”We all like taking the train, right? So safe, so reliable, so what if there’s a chance you’ll be murdered before getting to your stop?
Well, that’s the real risk of public transit in the new five-issue comic series “Kill Train,” out through Mad Cave Studios. In the story, we meet Vanessa, a struggling artist and mother in the midst of a nervous breakdown, who discovers that she, herself, is on a Kill Train, the randomized extermination program to counter New York City’s crippling population explosion.
Now, for once in her life a...2025-06-0653 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Murders in a small town in Maggie Giles’ new bookFor this episode, we’re taking a trip to the town of Cedar Plains, just a quiet place where not a lot happens…except for murder….a lot of it. Joining me is author Maggie Giles for her soon-to-be-released novel, “The Art of Murder.”
Maggie talks about the town of Cedar Plains, the real-life inspiration behind its creation and how the murders rock the quiet community. She shares the dichotomy of main characters Courtney Faith and Alexa Huston and how one accidental murder takes Alexa down a dark path. One theme of the book is if murder can be jus...2025-06-0221 min
Citywide BlackoutMichael Bland closes out his trilogy with “The Price of Freedom”In 2020, author Michael Bland introduced is to Dray Quintero and his fight for freedom in “The Price of Safety.” Now, he’s bringing that story to a close with his final book in the trilogy, “The Price of Freedom.” Here’s a look at the story:
It’s 2047. The rebellion has been crushed. The Agency is reestablishing control.
Rebel leader Dray Quintero languishes in his cell, struggling against his captors' manipulations. His daughter Raven's cries torment him at night. He has doomed them both.
In this interview, Michael talks about the events that have brought us...2025-05-1639 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Holy Roller on the road to Boston CallingThis interview is a unique one, because the next guest on Citywide Bytes isn’t calling from the studio or their home, they’re on road, and among the stops will be Boston Calling.
Brady Heck and Rebekah Rafferty of the band Holy Roller join me to talk about how it feels to be back on the road after a month away and their upcoming performance at Boston Calling on May 23. We talk about their set and which Boston Calling bands they’re looking forward to seeing.
Rebekah and Brady share their origin stories of the ba...2025-05-1225 min
Citywide BlackoutRebuilder ready to take the stage at Boston CallingFrom Dropkick Murphys to the Mighty Mighty Bosstones, the punk band Rebuilder has some memorable times on stage — and later this month, they’ll be making some new memories when they play at Boston Calling.
Sal Ellington (vocals, guitar) joins us to talk about what’s in store for their set, and the bands he’s looking forward to seeing. We talk about their times with the Murphys and Bosstones and other story-worthy shows they’ve done.
Sal talks about being nominated multiple times for Best Punk Band in Boston by the Boston Music Awards and how it...2025-05-0946 min
Citywide BlackoutSnacktime goes from Rittenhouse to Boston CallingFrom their early days performing free shows in Philly’s Rittenhouse Square, the seven-piece band Snacktime has come a long way, and on May 25, they’ll take the stage at Boston Calling to bring a truly amazing sound to the city.
Band founder and sousaphone/bass player Sam Gellerstein joins us to talk about their formation in the summer of 2020 and making their mark on Philadelphia’s music scene. Sam shares what folks can expect at their Boston Calling show, and some of their recent (and upcoming) highlights as a band.
Sam talks about the band’s...2025-05-0239 min
Citywide BlackoutBen Chou at the 2024 PAX EastAs PAX East returns this weekend, we’re sharing some interviews done at the 2024 PAX East by Ben Chou.
In this episode, Ben talks with Jim Fitzpatrick for his first game, Mission to Planet Hexx! Ben speaks with Jim about his path as a game creator and journey of developing his game, Mission to Planet Hexx!
Following this, Ben chats with Scott "Doeboy" Doe, local Twitch streamer, musician, Esports commentator and retro game enthusiast. Doeboy talks about the passions and experience of the gaming and entertainment industry as well as his experience at PAX as an...2025-04-291h 24
Citywide BlackoutWriter brings military life into debut novelJeremy D. Baker is a former US Army counterintelligence agent and combat veteran. He’s served alongside US Special Forces in Afghanistan and is a PTSD survivor. Over the past 20 years, his work in national security has focused on intelligence, counterterrorism, transnational organized crime, human trafficking, climate risk and resilience, and cybersecurity.
That experience was an integral part in the writing of his debut novel, “The Guilty Sleep,” out in print, e-book and audiobook this May. Here’s a look at the story:
Afghanistan vet Dexter Grant is broke, reeling from PTSD, and on the verge of...2025-04-2555 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Josh Mendoza crosses genres, dimensions in new bookWriter/director Josh Mendoza is already well known in the world of film, and he’s used those skills to create his debut novel, “Shadow of the Eternal Watcher.” Here’s a look at the story:
Lately, Duster Raines has started seeing an alternate version of reality where he leads a life of importance, wealth, and power. Visions so vivid they seem more real than the life he lives as a PI, scrounging the gutters of Los Angeles for an easy buck. It’s enough to drive anyone insane.
Pulled into a missing persons case he never w...2025-04-2122 min
Citywide BlackoutFalsely Accused walks new ground with “Unbroken”From playing shows to being recognized by WBUR, the Boston trio Falsely Accused has been on the move, and with their new EP, “Unbroken,” they pack a lot into five songs. Band members Mike Azzolino, Matt Tavano and Mark Young talk about the new elements from their last release, “Compression,” and how their music has grown since the 2021 album.
We go into the different places the band has played at and what’s on their musical bucket list. Mike, Matt and Mark give us the band’s history, and their time working with Kennedy Studios in Burlington, Massachusett...2025-04-1841 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Explore the dark depths with “Fear of the Deep”Let’s face it—the ocean is a damn nightmare and our next guest gives us one more reason to stick to shore. Joining us is Julie Hiner for her new book, “Fear of the Deep” out through Torrid Waters, an imprint of Crystal Lake Publishing. Here’s a look at what’s in store:
Bailey, a lifeguard with a heavy metal heart and a Jack Daniel's addiction, has long avoided the deep sea since a haunting accident. San Diego's sunny shores provide a facade of normalcy, where her nights are drowned in music and whiskey, and her days are...2025-04-1418 min
Citywide BlackoutBoston band Tell explores isolation with new musicWhen it comes to sharing their message, Boston alt-rock band Tell has rarely held back. In fact, as David Wildman tells it, one of his new releases is an honest “fuck you” to the internet. Yep, this is not one for the kiddos.
In this episode, David talks about the story behind the band’s March release, “Sweet Proximity” their forthcoming single, “Boiling the Ocean.” David talks about being a musician in the digital age and how this changes the game, both for good and bad.
“Sweet Proximity” underwent a lot of changes along the way and David shar...2025-04-1142 min
Citywide BlackoutNate Perry & Ragged Company give us a Boston Calling PreviewThis May, the Boston-based Nate Perry & Ragged Company will join some of the best musicians today when they take the stage at Boston Calling.
Band members Nate Perry (singer), Connor Milligan (bass player) and Mike Chandler (lead guitarist) join us to talk about what being part of BC means to them, the bands they’re looking forward to seeing and what we can expect from their set.
In 2024, they released their debut EP, "The Otherside of Everything," and we go into the stories behind the music and how the name of the album came to be...2025-04-0439 min
Citywide BlackoutThomas Jane dives into the dark world of “The Lycan”Fifteen years ago, actor Thomas Jane and David James Kelly co-wrote the script for “The Lycan.” Different attempts to bring it to life fell by the wayside, but the time has come and the first issue is now available through Comixology. Here’s a look at the story:
The story takes place in 1777. After a successful expedition in Africa, a hardened band of international big game hunters set out to return home with their bounty when their voyage takes a turn and the men are shipwrecked off a small British island.
Under the tutelage of Absalom...2025-04-0442 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Back in the studio with Lorenza WildcardIt was August of 2023 and Lorenza Wildcard was on the show to talk about the beginning of her musical journey. Today, she has appeared on multiple podcasts and shows, performed all over and received a slew of awards.
In this episode, we look at some of the highlights of her career and what keeps her going. She shares some performance milestones, including the famous Dublin Castle in London. She talks about the lessons learned, both on stage and in the studio and how she views her time as an artist after a couple years.
Lorenza...2025-03-3125 min
Citywide BlackoutMaggie Giles keeps the mystery going with “Wicked”Our next guest was last on the show in October 2023 for her mystery thriller “Twisted” and now, Maggie Giles is back with “Wicked,” the new title in the series, out on April 22.
While the mystery behind the robbery and murders in “Twisted” was uncovered a few months back, there is still a very large loose thread that Detective Ryan Boone desperately wishes to tie up. He convinces his superiors to allow him to travel to Ottawa, where he’s uncovered a lead into a conspiracy that hints what happened in Toronto has nationwide and horrific implications.
Meanwhile, fo...2025-03-2831 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Award-winning writer explores life though the eyes of a middle-schoolerAuthor Nancy McCabe’s new book, “Fires Burning Underground” takes us through the life of Anny as she copes with the death of a friend, her family’s religious home and questioning her own sexuality.
Nancy and I talk about what inspired the book and how it reflects on her own life. She goes into the development of Anny’s character and navigating the many aspects of the story. Nancy shares how it felt to revisit her life in the pages of this book and if she views the middle-grade age group any differently.
She goes into...2025-03-2422 min
Citywide BlackoutBumblebee Radio celebrates five years on the airIt was during the pandemic that radio personality Kristen Eck decided to make a long-term dream a reality with the launch of Bumblebee Radio. Five years and hundreds (maybe thousands!) of songs later, the Boston-based station is marking five years on the air.
In this episode, Eck joins us to talk about the station’s early days and how it’s thrived since 2020. We go into the ins and outs of running a station, including how she gets the rights to so much music and how to make your own studio! We also talk about plans for the...2025-03-1433 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—“Boy With Wings” shows what it means to be differentIn his book, “Boy With Wings,” (Koehler, March 15) author Mark Mustian explores the history of the American freak show and what it means to be different in this world.
Johnny Cruel is born with wing-like appendages. Is it a miracle, or is he cursed? Is he an angel or a horror? Struggling to find his place in the world, Johnny ends up in a freak show traveling the 1930s South, where he bares his back to onlookers who come to gape, laugh, recoil and fawn. While looking for a place to call home, Johnny notices a str...2025-03-1021 min
Citywide BlackoutBattlemode talks about Boston Calling debutEvery band has their firsts—first album, first show, first tour. In this episode, the three-member chiptune band Battlemode talks about their first performance at the upcoming Boston Calling. Band members Biff and Astro talk about how this appearance came to be and the musicians they’re looking forward to seeing.
Boston has a great chiptune scene and Biff and Astro take us on a tour of what makes it so awesome. We learn about some of the other chiptune artists they’ve worked with and their Boston Bitdown festival, which takes place this weekend. We also talk a...2025-03-0738 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Julie McGue shares family story in new bookFor her new book, “Twice the Family: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Sisterhood,” Julie Ryan McGue shares the story of her and her twin sister growing up in their expanding adoptive family.
In this episode of Citywide Bytes, she talks about the family story and adapting it for this book. She also talks about how the book expands on her previous novel, “Twice a Daughter: A Search for Identity, Family, and Belonging.” We learn about the ongoing book tour she has and how it feels to be recognized by receiving Literary Titan and Independent Press awards.
2025-03-0322 min
Citywide BlackoutLinda Viens talks Hall of Fame inductions, new music from Girl With a HawkAt Citywide Blackout, we don’t toss around the word “legend” casually — but this time, we feel it applies.
Linda Viens and Richard Lamphear of Girl With a Hawk join us to talk about Viens’ recent induction into the New England Music Hall of Fame as part of the solo artists of 2025. Linda talks about the experience of hearing her name announced at the ceremony and what it means for her as an artist.
Linda and Richard talk about the formation of Girl With a Hawk in 2020 and the band’s recent single, “Share It All.” The two...2025-02-2848 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes – Ghost on TV takes a trip with “Mister Silence”From past musical projects to years of world travel, Paul DePasquale has a number of influences as an artist, which have all played a role in his new album “Mister Silence” under his Ghost on TV project.
In this episode of Citywide Bytes, Paul talks about how the new album came together and the ways that his time in Japan, working with the band Vary Lumar and others helped shape the sound.
He goes into his new mindset of freeing himself and the ways this helped him as an artist. We also talk about his many...2025-02-2425 min
Citywide BlackoutDerek Smith takes us on a cosmic journey with ‘Opus’For this episode, we’re going to pivot from the authors we’ve been interviewing and focus on the music with Derek Smith from Derek Smith and the Cosmic Vultures.
Derek talks about the new album, “Opus,” described as a sort of “best of” collection of music, though the tunes here are all new. Derek shares his exploration of different music styles and how it all came together for the 10-track lineup.
We also go into the band’s origin, his musical parentage and how he settled on such a cool band name. Derek talks about the cool...2025-02-1436 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Fun breaking glass with Kevin WilliamsOur next guest was last on the show in 2010, and we’re welcoming him back to talk about some absolutely beautiful new music. Musician and composer Kevin Williams joins me to talk about his recent release, “Ways to Break a Window,” an 11-track album of instrumental music that is incredibly layered with different sounds and effects.
Kevin talks about the inspiration behind the album, which is a return of sorts to him producing his own music. He shares the story behind the sounds and how he got to experiment with different techniques during the production process. And of cou...2025-02-1023 min
Citywide BlackoutComics by the lake: Previewing the Lake Como Comic and Art FestivalLongtime listeners will know that when it comes to comic-cons and arts festivals, we’re always down. But for this week’s guest, we’re not headed to Boston or New York City—we’re going to Italy to get a closer look at the Lake Como Comic and Arts Festival, which takes place May 16-18.
Steve Morger, the co-founder of the festival, talks with us about how this unique event got its start and the growth he’s seen over the years. We hear about some of the guests, Steve’s personal favorites and what he enjoys the most...2025-02-0736 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Evette Davis talks terror and trials in “The Gift”Author Evette Davis joined us last October to talk about her new release, “The Others,” and now she is back with a new book, “The Gift,” out on March 18.
The book, second in her series, features Olivia Shepherd—a reluctant empath who is now exploring her abilities and new role—traveling to Eastern Europe to learn about an act of terrorism that has struck the Council.
This book features a new nemesis, family secrets, and Olivia forced to choose between destiny and her own desires.
Evette talks about Olivia’s evolution as a character and...2025-02-0324 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Jeffrey Gardner joins the “Shapers of Worlds”I hope you enjoyed our first episode of 2025 with LJ Cohen, because we’re keeping things rolling with the writers. Jeffrey Gardner is part of the upcoming “Shapers of Worlds” Vol. 5, an anthology of science fiction and fantasy stories out in March through Shadowpaw Press.
In this episode, Jeffrey and I talk about his story, “Magic That Cannot Be Undone,” which ties into his existing novels and the new angle it gives on one of his characters. We talk magic, the price it takes, and the path of the mage. Jeffrey shares how he went from novel to short s...2025-01-2521 min
Citywide BlackoutHoliday hilarity ensues with “The Other Christmas Show”For this episode, we’re headed back to the film set with director, writer and actor Adam Griswold for his upcoming movie, “The Other Christmas Show,” which premiers on March 15. Here’s a look at the story behind the story.
For years, Aaron Hawthorne and his theater company staged ambitious musical productions in a suburban New England theater, and ultimately went their separate ways when the shows failed to find much of an audience.
However, when Aaron learns that a famed Broadway producer is staging a new production of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol in his home...2025-01-2437 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes: LJ Cohen’s new book seeks to heal a broken worldOur first Citywide Bytes of the new year features friend of the show LJ Cohen for her soon-to-be-released book, “Litany for a Broken World” (Feb. 10). In it, three strangers are drawn together in a conflict that threatens not only themselves, but all reality.
In this episode, LJ talks about her characters and the reality-spanning conflict they must face. We go into the development of the protagonists and how they face this challenge. “Litany for a Broken World” is the first in a new series and we get a peek at what is next. We also look at the cove...2025-01-2023 min
Citywide BlackoutKicking off the 2025 season with Jonathan MaberryWe’re getting 2025 off to a stellar start with one of the greats of the writing world! Author Jonathan Maberry is a NYT bestseller and 5-time Bram Stoker Award winner. He’s the creator of the Pine Deep Trilogy, V-Wars, Rot and Ruin and of course, the Joe Ledger series among many others.
In our first episode of the new year, Jonathan talks about “Burn to Shine,” the 14th book in the Joe Ledger series. In this book, a covert group is infiltrating the world’s most secure bio-weapons research sites. All across the country, people are acting as...2025-01-171h 13
Citywide BlackoutTalking travel, robots, and Moscow marriages at the Rhode Island Author ExpoThis December saw the return of the Rhode Island Author Expo, run by the Association of Rhode Island Authors. Along with emceeing the event, Citywide Blackout co-host Max Bowen sat down with some of the many talented writers to talk about their new releases, story inspirations, character development, and what we can expect down the road.
McLaughlin shares details of upcoming books
Heidi McLaughlin, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, joins me to talk about her two upcoming novels, “Sail Away With Me” (Dec. 31) and “The Art of Starting Over” (Feb. 1). B...2024-12-151h 35
Citywide BlackoutKevin Moore keeps the Christmas spirit with new bookIt’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is one of my favorite holidays, so it’s only fitting to mark it with Kevin Moore’s new book, “Christmas Stories, Vol. II.”
Kevin may love Christmas even more than I do, as his new book is a collection of Yuletide-themed short stories, including “a young boy who creates a profound and mystical Christmas for his community, a woman who stumbles upon a mysterious pink gift card filled with unexpected surprises, and a troubled young man who hears the magical sound of snowflakes falling” according to the story syno...2024-12-1335 min
Citywide Blackout“Hannah: The Soldier Diaries” blends love, music and a gripping storyWelcome to our final episode of Citywide Bytes for the 2024 season. We’re taking a break to recharge and come back in 2025 and believe me, we have a lot planned.
Capping off this season I am very excited to be talking about the musical audiobook “Hannah: The Soldier Diaries” and joining me is the story’s creator — theater writer, producer and author Steve Wallis.
Here’s a look at the plot:
When the gorgeous Hannah meets Lance Corporal Jack Webb in summer 2012, she is quickly smitten. However, Hannah has to decide quickly whether to embark on...2024-11-2725 min
Citywide BlackoutFinal RIAE pre-show interview has us looking to the starsIn our final pre-show interview for the Rhode Island Author Expo, I’m getting a lesson in the 52-Star Code System from Karyn Chabot Martino. I’d need all day to expound on Karyn’s lengthy educational background, but suffice it to say, if it’s out there, odds are she’s studied it.
Case in point—years ago she learned about the Star Code System and in this episode, we’re going to hear what that is, what inspired her to write about it and how her five-book series builds on what she’s already learned.
The syste...2024-11-2424 min
Citywide BlackoutSolving mysteries with a 5-year-old detective in “The Tender Purdy Mysteries”In the third installment of our pre-Rhode Island Author Expo interviews, Richard Harrington takes us on a tour of his “Tender Purdy Mysteries” series, now in its second volume. Tender Purdy has an IQ of 180, can solve complex cases….and is only 5 years old.
Richard talks about how he came up with the concept, and went from initial idea to completed book. He explains who Tender is, how she became a junior sleuth, and the challenges that await her in the books. We also get a sneak peek at what future stories have in store for the reader...2024-11-2321 min
Citywide BlackoutWestern Education digs deep with new singlesThe four-piece rock band Western Education is another old favorite from our Boston days. We’ve seen them on stage many times and it’s always been a blast, so of course, we had to have them on.
Band members Greg Alexandropoulos, Will Hunt and Devin Vaillaincourt join us to recap their most recent singles, which touch on some pretty serious topics, such as the loss of a loved one to cancer and trying to help someone dealing with mental health struggles. The band talks about the real-life people whose stories inspired the music and what it mean...2024-11-2253 min
Citywide BlackoutHeidi McLaughlin gives a new perspective on “Forever My Girl”In our second episode of the pre-Rhode Island Author Expo interviews, I’m joined by New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today-bestselling author Heidi McLaughlin. Heidi has a new book out on Dec. 3 called “Forever My Boy,” which provides a new angle on “Forever My Girl,” which was adapted to a movie in 2018.
Heidi and I talk about the book and the new direction it goes in, as well as how it fits into the Beaumont Series, which “Forever My Girl” kicks off. We talk about the characters and the different things we’re learning about them in th...2024-11-1524 min
Citywide BlackoutJeff Michaels talks about returning to music and charting new pathsJeff Michaels of the Jeff Michaels Band is an old friend from our days in Boston. It’s been a while since we spoke and there’s a lot to cover, so let’s get to it!
Curtis, Max and Jeff talk all about their days in the Boston music scene and some of Jeff’s favorite venues to perform at. Jeff goes into a long break he took from music and the old friend who got him back to it. He shares some personal stories that are captured in his songs, especially “Luckiest By Far.”
While som...2024-11-1544 min
Citywide BlackoutAn intro to the Rhode Island Author Expo and the work of Scott JablonskiOn Dec. 7, the Rhode Island Author Expo returns, and we’re previewing this event by speaking to some of the writers who will be there. First up is Scott Jablonski, a writer, musician and teacher who has been encouraging kids to become their best version through his “Stand Out! Stand Out!” series.
In this interview, Scott talks about his work as a teacher and how it’s tied into his writing and music. He shares his hopes for the children that read his books and some of the messages he’s imparting through them.
2024-11-0820 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-How a dog helped Anne Abel to healFor this episode, we’re talking all about dogs, and how one dog named Milo and his owner overcame their difficult pasts.
After the untimely death of her beloved pet, Mattie, author Anne Abel rescued an initially aggressive dog named Milo. Anne's commitment to Milo's rehabilitation became a powerful metaphor for her resilience and growth. Amid many challenges and recovering from childhood trauma, Anne found strength, rediscovered her capacity to love and transformed both herself and Milo in the process.
Anne wrote about this in "Mattie, Milo and Me," and we talk all about those earl...2024-11-0822 min
Citywide BlackoutA steampunk adventure with Nikola TeslaTo wrap up our Halloween coverage, we’re talking historical fiction, steampunk and Tesla….no not that Tesla. Joining us is author Matthew Donald to talk about his new book, “Teslamancer.”
The book is Donald’s second in this alternate history steampunk series, following “Teslanauts” in 2022. In the new book, protagonist Raymond Calvert is an experienced Teslanaut, completing missions across many countries, thwarting numerous underground factions using Tesla's cutting-edge volt-tech. In 1924, the world braces for the emergence of the Teslamancer, the ultimate wielder of Tesla's breakthrough science.
In this interview, Matthew talks about what inspired the series and...2024-11-0834 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Author kicks off new trilogy set in a magical San FranIn her first in an urban fantasy trilogy set in San Francisco, Evette Davis has created a “secret society of supernaturals who seek to slow the spread of facism.” Here’s a look at what’s in store:
Olivia Shepherd is a political consultant with a secret: She’s an empath, with the power to experience the emotions of those around her. Keen to keep her supernatural abilities hidden, Olivia's world is upended when Elsa, an ancient time-walker, appears in her kitchen, unveiling a destiny she never knew she had.
As Olivia delves deeper into the hidden...2024-10-2721 min
Citywide BlackoutNew book sends us to a creepy island—with pieWhatever you do, don’t eat the pie. That’s it. That’s all the warning you get.
In Monique Asher’s new book, “Don’t Eat the Pie,” we’re taken to Camillia Island, where Sam moves her family after her mother-in-law falls ill. All seems well and there’s even a pie competition, until Sam’s daughter Emma begins seeing ghosts who try to warn her of something.
Monique talks about the absolutely amazing cover art and introduces us to the artist who created it. We talk about what inspired the book and her writing process...2024-10-2642 min
Citywide BlackoutCatching up on old times and new with Three at HomeCurtis and I have been friends with the Boston-based Three at Home for many years, and shared many a show together. In this episode, we take some time to catch up with the rock/pop trio to see where they’ve been and what’s in their future.
Band members Dann Russo, Mary Casiello and Kari Paisley-Flango talk about some recent shows in Boston and the Steam Kettle Festival at Hale Reservation in Westwood. Kari joined the band in 2022, and talk about how they met with Dann and Mary and their experience being part of Three at Home...2024-10-241h 00
Citywide BlackoutAuthor’s new book paints a nightmare dreamscapeWe’ve all had some pretty intense nightmares, but hey, they’re all dreams, right…..right? Our next guest shares a world where dreams can indeed kill you.
Author Deirdre Swinden joins us to talk about, “Somnium” to through Crystal Lake Entertainment. Here’s a look at what’s in store:
Immerse yourself in a terrifying blend of psychological horror and high-tech science fiction in this riveting novel where dreams can kill. Gillian Hardie experiences nightmares so intense they threaten her very existence, thanks to a glitch in Somnium Corporation’s groundbreaking dream advertising technology. Every night, her...2024-10-2133 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Cold time in the city with new anthologyLet’s face it, cities are just awesome. Whether it’s Boston, Paris, London, they have a life all their own, and sometimes, they wind up as characters in a story.
That’s the premise for our latest Citywide Bytes interview with R.B. Wood, Mike Allen and Xan van Rooyen to talk about “Winter in the City,” a collection of 18 different stories from new and veteran writers from around the world. As the book’s editor, R.B. goes into the book’s origins and how he found the many writers, while Mike and Xan talk about their st...2024-10-1725 min
Citywide BlackoutLisa Diane Kastner’s protagonist finds a new family in the sequel to “Cure”’Let’s face it, family can be a challenge. But when that family is a group of supernatural shapeshifters? Well, that’s a horse—or a wolf—of a different color.
In our newest Citywide Bytes interview, I talk with author Lisa Diane Kastner for her recently-released book, “Family Pack,” the sequel to her 2022 release, “Cure.” The book continues the story of Luna Auber, whom after her brother dies suddenly learns that she is both a shapeshifting lycanthrope and the descendent of a legendary female Viking warrior.
In “Family Pack,” Luna’s epic journey continues amidst a conflict betw...2024-10-0630 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Imaginarium shows us a unique musical playgroundWhen I first heard the music of Imaginarium, my thought was “Damn, this is good,” followed quickly by “We gotta get this band on the show!” And here we are.
Band founder Anton de Bruin talks about how the group came to be as well as the musical backgrounds of the different members. We look at the eclectic sound, a blend of funk, jazz, and reggae and how it all comes together through the different members. The band is based in the Netherlands, and Anton shares some of the shows they’ve done and where they’d like to play...2024-10-0525 min
Citywide BlackoutTodd Hearon returns to music with a sonic trilogyMusic has always been a part of Todd Hearon’s life and following a brief break for other creative pursuits, he’s returned with a three-part album release and in this interview, we dive right into what this is all about.
The Texas-born songwriter goes into the story behind his most recent release, “Impossible Man” and how it follows his 2021 and 2023 albums, “Border Radio” and “Yodelady.” We also talk about his musical hiatus to go to grad school in Boston and co-found The Bridge Theater Company, an independent troupe in Boston’s Theater District.
Todd shares how his poe...2024-09-2947 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—In her new book, Donna Levin explores a romanticized pastIn author Donna Levin’s new book, “The Talking Stick,” we meet Hunter, who has lost…..well, just about everything. Her husband has left her for her former friend, now best enemy Angelica. She has no job, no prospects, and is unsure of what comes next.
That “next” happens while exploring a San Francisco flea market. Here, she’s sent on a journey with three other women who join her journey to reexamine pasts, explore grief, addictions, parenting, and marriages, and discover that some of their most-cherished memories are romanticized versions of the truth.
In this interview...2024-09-2322 min
Citywide BlackoutTyler Herwig hopes to spread a musical message of hopeSinger-songwriter Tyler Herwig believes that if he can help even one person through his music, then that is a job well done. In this episode, he talks with us about how his wife inspired him to pursue music as a full-time career and some of his experiences along the way.
In fact, Tyler’s most recent release is “All Yours,” a message of thanks to his wife for her many years of support as he’s made his art his new career.
In fact, he performs around 280 shows a year and talks about how he maintain...2024-09-2330 min
Citywide BlackoutDany Horovitz recaps on a truly memorable yearSinger-songwriter Dany Horovitz is back for what has become a yearly check-in and man, there is a lot to talk about. Over the last 12 months, he’s released tons of music and we go into the songs and the stories behind them. Dany also talks about how he puts himself into his songs. We also give some previews of what he has planned for the rest of this year and into the next.
The last year has also seen a lot of memorable appearances, such as at the recent North by Northeast Festival and as a judge fo...2024-09-2048 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Justin Lee breaks new ground in fourth bookAfter hearing this interview, I hope you’ll all be a little more careful when you open that random email. Because you never know.
Author Justin Lee is back with a new book, “The Reluctant Reckoner” (Oct. 8) and in this episode, we talk all about protagonist Mark Righters, an ordinary man caught in a world he is wholly unprepared for. Here’s a look at what’s in store:
An honest accountant who likes to keep it simple, he's been at the same company for 23 years and prefers things the way they are: steady, with little exc...2024-09-2021 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-That time I lived in Edgar Allan Poe’s basementAuthor and storyteller Matthew Mercier has a certain claim to fame—he once lived in the Bronx home of Edgar Allan Poe. In fact, the experience was so life-changing, he made it the subject of his recently-released book. “Poe and I,” out through Crystal Lake Entertainment. Here’s a look at what’s in store:
Jonah Peabody takes a job as caretaker and head docent for a historical house in The Bronx that once served as the last home for Edgar Allan Poe, a job that requires him to live on the premises so he can give tours on t...2024-09-1421 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—“Groupies” takes us on a bloody good tourOn Oct. 22, the world will be introduced to, as writer Helen Mullane puts it, “the acid-drenched, blood-soaked journey into the heart of rock n’ roll excess” and I could not have done a better job summing up “Groupies,” a new five-issue series which debuts on Oct. 22 through Comixology.
Helen and I go into the origins of this series, and how she and co-creator/artist Tula Lotay shaped the story. Helen shares her interest in the world of groupies and how she dove into it to craft the characters. She talks about working with Tula and how she applied he...2024-09-1321 min
Citywide BlackoutJoseph Falank combines personal drama with a spooky atmosphere in new bookThree couples. A weekend at a secluded lake house. What could go wrong?
Quite a lot, as it turns out. Joseph Falank’s new book, “The Vanishing at Echo Lake” (Oct. 22), combines the each couple’s relationships issues with a mysterious cabin where the living have a tendency to go missing without a trace.
Joseph talks about what inspired the book, not his first in the horror genre, and how he created both the world of the cabin and the people, in a way that makes them matter to the reader. He goes into the force su...2024-09-1136 min
Citywide BlackoutCrossing time zones and genres with Michael BotteOver his lengthy musical career, Michael Botte has seen it all and played it all, and in this interview, he shares it all—how it started, how it changed and how he feels to be a recent International Singer Songwriter Association award-winner for Male Emerging Artist of the Year.
Michael goes into his recent single release, “Dance With Your Shadow” and the upbeat reggae style that he got to incorporate. We talk about the genre-jumping he’s done and how he views his own sound. We learn how he met Bob Beals of Sound Foundation Studios and the great...2024-09-0643 min
Citywide BlackoutRobotic Hawks deliver a sonic punch to the faceIt was in 2018 that the three-piece band Robotic Hawks came together and, in that time, they’ve taken many a stage and radio show and, in this episode, we’re going to hear all about it!
Band members Tyler Pollard (Vocals/Bass), Brian Sturk (Drums) and Shawn Doherty (Guitar) give us the whole backstory—how the band came together through a Craigslist ad and some of their favorite venues over the years. This includes some of Curtis and I’s most beloved venues, the Middle East and the Sinclair.
We talk about how the band’s style ha...2024-09-0154 min
Citywide BlackoutJohn Raposa tries a new genre with “All In The Cards”When author John Raposa was last on the show, it was in 2017 for his dystopian thriller “Children of Apis” series. Now, he has a new book out, “All In The Cards” and while the book is indeed a thriller, this has a much darker tone. Here’s a look at the synopsis:
Danny and Leigh are your typical teenagers until a mystical deck of cards comes into their possession. What started as an innocent visit to a gypsy's tent results in a decision that alters the path of their lives.
For Danny, the cards are both intrig...2024-08-2528 min
Citywide BlackoutH.D Hunter talks young adult fiction and a writer’s impactHow does one judge the impact of their work?
It’s a topic that I talk about with author, activist, and teacher H.D. Hunter in the latest episode. He has a new book out on Aug. 20, “Something Like Right,” and it’s his first foray into the world of young adult fiction. We talk about what new lessons this offered after working primarily in elementary/middle school fiction and how he enjoyed the experience.
H.D. shares the origin of Zay, the main character of the book, and his role in the story, which touches...2024-08-1740 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes: Hayley Verrall shares an upbeat tale with “Peach Iced Tea”On our latest episode of Citywide Bytes, singer-songwriter Haley Verrall joins me to share the story behind her latest single, “Peach Iced Tea.” It’s an upbeat tale and a shift from some of her past work. We talk about this and some of the different sounds she’s tried out since she began releasing music.
We also talk about some her past music, including “Late Bloomer,” which was part of a past edition of the Blackout Collection.
Since college, Haley has run Singing for Smiles, performing for senior citizens. This came about from when she...2024-08-0124 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes: Synthpop artist Bjorn Felle takes us to “Paradise Moon”The next guest on Citywide Bytes came to our attention with his single “Theory of Mind,” and now, he’ll be talking about some great new music he has to share.
A sound inspired by synthpop, punk, 90s techno and 16-bit videogame soundtracks, Bjorn Felle’s style is always changing and in this episode we learn about the twists and turns he’s taken since starting his musical career. We dive into is new album, “Paradise Moon” and learn about the new sounds he got to try out as well as some of the past sonic experiments he’s conducted...2024-07-2727 min
Citywide Blackout“The Thing in the Wind” takes readers on a walk through a haunted woodsWith his new book, Bill Mullen is making the pivot from thriller to horror. “The Thing in the Wind” goes on a dark journey through the Canadian wilderness, but there’s a lot more to it. The book is now available through Crystal Lake Entertainment, here’s a look at the story:
A search party stumbles upon an unspeakable horror that threatens both their lives and sanity.
In the heart of the Canadian wilderness, a harrowing tale of survival and psychological horror unfolds in this gripping novel. Amidst the vast, unforgiving landscape, a woman’s world is s...2024-07-2135 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Two decades of music with Jeneen TerranaIn our newest episode of Citywide Bytes, I’m joined by Jeneen Terrana, who’s been releasing music since 2002 with her debut album, “Just Me.” Since then, she’s performed all over the US and toured in Europe. Most recently, she released the single “Good Girls Get the Blues.”
Jeneen takes us back to the beginning with what got her into music from her time spent as an actress and why she’s remained there for so many years. She talks about her new single “Good Girls Get the Blues” and the collaboration process with some amazing musicians.
O...2024-07-1827 min
Citywide BlackoutPenny Lane’s book takes readers on a journey of personal redemptionCONTENT WARNING: This interview contains recounts of trauma and abusive relationships.
Penny Lane’s debut memoir “Redeemed: A Memoir of a Stolen Childhood,” (She Writes Press) is a story of personal redemption. Torn from her home by a Hungarian father she doesn't know to enduring abuse and neglect from a stepmother, Penny's journey leads her to another form of captivity: fundamentalist Christianity. It's a tale of resilience against abuse, trauma, and oppressive odds, navigating both family and religious turmoil to ultimately find her way home.
In this episode, Penny shares what led her to share her sto...2024-07-1443 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes: NecronomiCon—the home of weird fiction literatureWho here likes weird fiction? Wow, that’s a lot of hands. Ok then, listen up, because NecronomiCon Providence is the place for you!
In this episode of Citywide Bytes, Ken Vaughn, director of core programming for this bi-annual showcase, talks about the panels, guest speakers, special events and much more that await those eager to check out this weird and fun convention. We spotlight the guests of honor and Ken talks about the work to bring them all together.
We also look at how this event has grown over the years from its inception in...2024-07-1224 min
Citywide Blackout“Hard Style Juice” tells a murder mystery through a wrestling lensI’ve been a fan of both professional wrestling and comics for many years, so getting to talk about both for this interview was just perfect.
Writer Clay McCormack, artist Ricardo Lopez Ortiz and I dive into “Hard Style Juice,” a new series that you can only see on Comixology Originals. Here’s a look at the story for those new to it:
Wrestling is big business in arenas across the country, and for the Castros, it’s the family business. "King" Castro is the patriarch of the family, he’s also the manager, booker, promotor, MC...2024-07-0450 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-New on the music scene, Abijah Perry is making her markSince 2022, singer/songwriter Abijah Perry has been making some amazing music, including our personal favorite, “Love Overnight.”
In the newest episode of Citywide Bytes, she and Max talk about what got her into music, how she landed her mellow folk-infused style and how she’s defining and refining her sound. She shares how she fell in love with music and her choice to pursue it as a career.
Abijah also talks about the stories she’s sharing through her songs, future projects and the family influence that inspired her love of all things music.
Openi...2024-06-2624 min
Citywide BlackoutTom of The Midnight Wrens soars through a seven-year band historyIt was in 2017 when the original six members of The Midnight Wrens came together, and since that time, they’ve made some amazing music in the New England area. In this episode, band songwriter/guitarist Tom Powley joins us to talk about how the Wrens came together and their journey over the years.
Tom goes into their new EP, “The Songbird Collection,” a five-track EP that touches on different aspects with each song, and shares some of the stories behind the music. We also look at the band’s upcoming show on July 25 at The Word Barn and the...2024-06-2245 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes—Perdys member talks working with the greats and creating new musicIt was back in March that I first heard “I Know” by Perdys and since then, it’s been a blast exploring this work of Scandinavian producer/songwriters Nalle Ahlstedt and Anders Borgius.
In the newest episode of Citywide Bytes, Max and Anders talk about how he and Nalle first met and the choice to form Perdys. Of course, that wasn’t the band’s first name, and we go into how they went form Perk to Perkless and how they landed on Perdys. We also talk about the story behind “I Know,” the cool cover art, and what we ca...2024-06-1923 min
Citywide BlackoutThomas Smith takes on an imaginative journey with “Other Places”Horror author Thomas Smith has written some wildly terrifying tales over the years, and in his new horror collection, “Other Places” (Cemetery Dance), he brings us 16 different stories, all in his signature style.
In this interview, Thomas talks about the phone call from friend of the show Kevin Lucia that got this book rolling, and how he created each story. We learn which was the most fun to write, and get a peek at some of the themes and ideas he incorporated.
We look at the dedication to fellow horror writer Joe Cherkes and the hist...2024-06-1549 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Matthew Daddona dives into his own backstory for new bookOur next guest for the Citywide Bytes interviews has just dropped his first novel, “The Longitude of Grief,” a coming of age story about a boy named Henry and his attempts to escape a world of betrayal.
But for author Matthew Daddona, it’s far from his first foray into the literary world—in fact, he’s been working in the publishing world for years for such companies as Penguin Random House and Dey Street Books/Harper Collins, so he knows a thing or three about getting a book out there.
In this interview, Matthew shares wha...2024-06-1425 min
Citywide BlackoutSongwriter and producer Kenny J shares stories of love and positivity in his new albumCalling Kenny J a positive individual would be a massive understatement. This South Carolina-based songwriter and producer is hoping to spread such a message through his new music, which culminates in a summer album release.
Originally slated to be our new Citywide Bytes interview, some connection issues arose and we decided “hell with it, the show must go on!”
So, we dove into the meaning behind Kenny’s upbeat outlook on life. He also shares the sad news of his wife’s passing last year and how this inspired him to write “You’re a Woman.” Kenn...2024-06-0527 min
Citywide BlackoutBook, author, horror, zombie, dead, undead, love, romance, fightRichard Farren Barber is the author of dozens of books, novellas and short stories over 30 years, and in this episode, we see his creative spirit at work in “One of the Dead,” released through Crystal Lake Entertainment.
In this episode, Curtis and Max talk with Richard about what inspired a story wherein the undead look just like us and spread, not through devouring the living, but by stealing their life force by touch. We meet Nick, the protagonist and learn how he must fight the living dead when they go after his girlfriend Abby, a task that he is...2024-06-0533 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Sydney16-year-old pop artist Sydney 2024-05-3125 min
Citywide BlackoutSister Shalom’s journey through faith and musicFor Dallas-based musician Sister Shalom, music began at a young age and has taken many turns along the way. Likewise, her life as a person of faith has seen some changes and in this interview, she shares both aspects of her life.
Sister Shalom began her ministry as an independent artist in 2020 and since then has releases some singles and the EP “Genesis” earlier this year. She talks about her style and the other types of music she explore growing up. We go into her time away from the Word of God and what brought her b...2024-05-2534 min
Citywide BlackoutIt’s a musical journey with Jennifer Tefft & The StrangeFollowing her appearance last August, Boston-based musician Jennifer Tefft is back, this time to talk about her new band, Jennifer Tefft & The Strange. Joined by her bandmate “Sharky” we talk about their new album, “Strange Beginnings,” which dropped on May 17.
Jennifer and Sharky share the musical journey that the album takes us on, starting with the recent single releases “Caffeine” and “Going Out.” We go into their upcoming shows, including a performance on WMFO for Live Music Day.
Along with his music, Sharky is also a visual artist, and designed the band’s merch along with wo...2024-05-1833 min
Citywide BlackoutDoug Knight returns to talk about a series dedicated to the doctorsDouglas Knight of Crosseye Comics is back to talk about the newest issue of “Super Wicked White Cell Squadron,” a series launched last year and based on his time in the hospital as a kid undergoing cancer treatment. The comic is dedicated to the doctors that took care of him and which Knight wrote, drew and colored.
This series features a team of heroes inspired in part by the doctors Doug knew as a child and we talk about these real-life heroes. The 70-page first issue was released in 2023 and we look at how the story of SWWCS...2024-05-1134 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Ryan Estrada shares some heartfelt stories in his new comicsThe newest guest on the Citywide Bytes live show has worked on award-winning titles such as “Banned Book Club,” “Occulted,” and is here to talk about two great new titles.
Ryan Estrada joins me to dive into “The Silver City,” the second part in the “Student Ambassador” series, which features a new adventure with main character Joseph Bazan. We talk about Joseph and how he came to be as well as how he fares in the newest mystery. This comic is based on a very real place and Ryan goes into how he world-built the newest comic.
For “No Ru...2024-05-0623 min
Citywide BlackoutDon Silver’s new book takes on a powerful coming-of-age storyMany know Don Silver for years in the music industry as a producer, talent scout and much more. But Silver’s also an accomplished author, as we see in his soon-to-be-released book, Scorched (May 7, Holloway Press). Here’s a look at what’s in store:
After his father's sudden death, 14-year-old Jonas tries to support himself and his mother by selling weed and tranquilizers at parties–until he gets busted and sent to a boarding school for fatherless boys. To survive Lafayette Academy, Jonas and his four roommates form a tight bond. The boys vow to have each oth...2024-05-0630 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Mark Femino talks 30 years of musicIn our most recent episode of the live show Citywide Bytes, I’m joined by Mark Femino, and if you’re in the Boston music scene, that’s a name you likely know. Mark’s been a professional musician, performer, and teacher for nearly 30 years and actively toured in the mid-90s with the jam band, Blind Man’s Sun.
Today, Mark is a seasoned musician and, in this interview, we talk all about the path he took to get here, including the recent release of his single, “Damn Girl,” a really interesting take on a breakup song. Mark als...2024-05-0326 min
Citywide BlackoutDennis Hopeless shares his past in new comic seriesDennis Hopeless is known for titles such as X-Force, Darth Vader, Suicide Squad and Invader Zim. Now, he shares a true-life story in the Comixology-exclusive title “She’s Running on Fumes.”
Set in Deepwater, Missouri circa 1984, a criminal named Jody is severely injured in a car wreck and his wife discovers he was a drug trafficker and begins her own criminal career in a desperate bid to keep her family afloat. The twist is that this tale of crime and survival is inspired by Hopeless' own parents.
In this episode, Dennis talks about what led him to...2024-04-2741 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Mark Maia takes into his new dark comedy comic seriesOur next guest in the Citywide Bytes series is set to release an 8-issue dark comedy series, “So-Called Living” set in a world much like our own…Well, except for all the vampires, werewolves and zombies, that is.
Mark Maia’s story focuses on a guy named Jack, whose life is turned upside down when he finds himself unwillingly transformed into a vampire. With the help of his friends, he tries his best to adapt to this new way of "living." Unfortunately for Jack, he's gotten himself mixed up with the wrong kind of "people," and "living" is about...2024-04-2030 min
Citywide BlackoutAmanda Blake shares the meal to end all meals in “Question Not My Salt”Ever been to a dinner and you just know it’s going to go badly? Well, you may have a new perspective after reading Amanda Blake’s extreme horror story, “Question Not My Salt,” available through Crystal Lake Entertainment. Here’s a little taste of what’s in store:
“Sierra's first American Thanksgiving promises to be unforgettable when her college roommate, Zoe, invites her to the Samuels family feast. But as the ten-hour banquet unfolds, it becomes clear this is no ordinary holiday gathering. With everyone bound by a chilling rule—eat and drink exactly as served, and enjoy it, or...2024-04-2038 min
Citywide BlackoutMystery boxes and twist endings with “Jill and the Killers”Who doesn’t love a good mystery? Oh, what’s that? It’s a real crime? And we need to solve it? And we could be killed? Yeah, that’ll be fine.
In the Oni Press four-part series, “Jill and the Killers,” teenager Jill Estrada is dealing with the unsolved disappearance of her mother, a police detective, and trying to get back to a normal life. . . . even as her friends become obsessed with Box Killers, a true-crime subscription game where each month’s “unsolved case” is custom-tailored to the life of its player. There’s only one catch: Jill’s game s...2024-04-1348 min
Citywide BlackoutCitywide Bytes-Joseph Macolino takes us on a tour of the world of EvorathIn the latest live episode of Citywide Bytes, Max talked with author Joseph Macolino for his recently-finished (or is it?) “Evorath Trilogy.” He released the third book, “The Battle for Erathal,” and we go into how this wraps up the story, as well as what he has planned next.
This series is years in the making, and Joseph talks about the lengthy world-building he did, which included a lot of education to expand his knowledge and create a more varied Evorath. He also shares the character creation process, how he’s seen them grow, and the challenge of decidin...2024-04-0623 min
Citywide BlackoutTim Facciola talks amnesiac gladiators and extensive worldbuilding for his epic trilogyOur next guest is a familiar name, having been featured as part of our artist Q&A series. We had such a great time, we knew we had to have him back to talk about his third book. Author Tim Facciola joins us to talk about his soon-to-be-released “The Age of the End,” out on April 16. Here’s a quick synopsis of the overall story.
In a world where blood is a short resolution for rebellion, Zephryus only knows two things: he is prophesied to bring peace and balance to the world, and he doesn’t remember anything...2024-04-0653 min
Citywide BlackoutEscape The Paradigm shares 11 years of musicOver the years, brothers Brandon Brodzinski and Johnathan Rockwood with Donny Hoover III have made a lot of memories while playing in Escape The Paradigm, and they hop on the show to give us all the details.
From touring with All That Remains to playing some kickass full houses, there’s a lot to go over, along with how this three-member band came together and what’s kept Escape The Paradigm going for more than a decade.
Escape The Paradigm came to our attention through Curtain Call Records and we go into how the b...2024-04-0147 min