summary

In one of my favorite conversations to date, Harley Flanagan (founder of the Cro-Mags) explores his life story & the complexities of his experiences. Expect to hear about his family legacy, a chaotic childhood, the realities of growing up in a unique environment &, difficult topics such as abuse &, grief. He discusses the impact of punk rock in Ireland, his introduction to skinhead culture, & how he brought that identity back to America. Harley reflects on the early punk scene & the evolution of his own music, leading to the formation of Cro-Mags, who changed the entire movement. He shares his tumultuous journey through addiction, fatherhood, & personal growth. In a passionate plea against suicide, Harley emphasizes the importance of resilience in the face of adversity & the value of life, encouraging listeners to embrace the unknown & not give up, no matter how tough things get.

Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Harley's wild family history
• Childhood experiences in Morocco
• Hitchhiking w/ his mom as a young kid
• Confronting the realities of abuse, violence & trauma
• Harley expresses the challenges of dealing with grief & loss of a father he never knew
• Breaking the silence around sexual abuse
• Learning meditation from Alan Ginsberg
• Harley's introduction to drugs at a young age
• The Stimulators pivotal role in the early punk rock movement
• Punk rock in Ireland
• Harley's role in introducing skinhead culture to America
• Skinhead history as a non-racist, punk movement, influenced by Jamaican music & culture
• The Cro-Mags blended punk & metal, creating a new sound that became hardcore
• The response to the Cro-Mags was initially one of shock & awe
• A life-changing phone call that revealed a potential child
• Kicking heroin oh his own & starting to run
• Suicide & not giving up
• Harley's documentary & other music documentaries

Wired For Chaos trailer - youtube.com/watch?v=yP8zCVJWl1Q

Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk & Music Merch:

• backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share an episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Stay Free until next time!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Schneeweis (Mr. Michael Motorcycle / Friends In Real Life) & Pepe explore the theme of safe journeys. Pepe shares a couple of stories as metaphors for life's challenges & Michael offers his thoughts in response. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of relationships, support systems & tools in overcoming obstacles & finding safety in an unpredictable world. Themes of loneliness, the power of simple connections in changing lives, the healing nature of seeking to understand others &, the importance of journaling as a tool for problem solving also come up. The discussion then delves into the meaning behind Michael's album title 'Safe Journey' & offers a deeper understanding of several of its' songs. We close out by playing "Wheels Are Turning."

Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

highlights:

• Pepe shares a story about a scholar on a journey across the open sea w/ Michael
• The different ways to approach critical moments in life
• Finding safety to better navigate life's challenges
• Mapping out solutions can help clarify options during crises
• Having connections is crucial for support during tough times
• We often lose sight of our resources in moments of crisis
• Reaching out to others to alleviate feelings of isolation
• Simple connections can have a profound impact on lives
• Loneliness often stems from the inability to communicate important feelings
• Seeking to understand others can be a healing process
• Journaling to categorize & solve struggles
• How "belonging" can lead to both positive & negative behaviors
• Growth requires letting old parts of oneself die-off
• We play "Wheels Are Turning"

Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk Music & Merch:

• backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share an episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Stay Free until next time!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April & Pepe delve into the themes of nostalgia, loss, & the creative process behind Apes Of The State's latest album. They discuss the personal stories that influenced the music, the collaborative nature of songwriting, & the impact of community & friendship on the artistic journey. The conversation highlights the importance of honoring loved ones in song & the challenges of navigating personal struggles while maintaining a public persona. Thoughts on living through Hurricane Sandy, the impact of changing neighborhoods &, much more. We close out playing the track "What's Another Night?"

Support the podcast to get bonus episodes & goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Honoring parents in music
• Collaboration & its powerful results
• Channelling The Smashing Pumpkins when writing music
• Touring while grieving a close friend
• Songwriting can be a therapeutic outlet for pain
• What songs become "anthems"
• Meeting punk rockers in rehab
• Being viewed as "the strong friend"
• Experiences from older generations can provide valuable wisdom
• Friendships can dissolve over time, simply due to life changes
• Thoughts on nostalgia
• Musical references heard throughout the album
• We play What's Another Night?

Back On The Grind Records - Find DIY, Folk Punk Music & Merch:

• backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you (roasted by Pepe)

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Reach out...Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters for us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share an episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Answering questions submitted by fans & other musicians, Myles Bullen explores their latest album with Pepe Bandit. Myles reveals an unknown history to Pepe that has secretly connected them both for over 15 years. Themes of connection, community & cathartic music are also brought up. Myles discusses the evolution of their music, particularly the transition from hip-hop to a more folk punk sound. They share insights on the creative process behind their latest album, the importance of vulnerability in performance, and the personal significance of the album's themes. The discussion also touches on the challenges of solitude, the joy of artistic collaboration, and the deep connections formed through music. Questions & comments from the entire Friends In Real Life lineup, Folk Punk Dad, Eric King & more!

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

• A word from Eric King
• Making music to connect deeply with those who have experienced hardship
• Why Eric King intimidated Myles
• Why Myles intimidated Pepe
• The connection the audience feels at a live show w/ Myles
• Reflections on the album artwork & its personal meaning
• The album creates a feeling of communal sharing and celebration
• How performing in folk punk spaces has been life-changing & career-saving for Myles
• The minimalist approach in the album challenges Myles to be more vulnerable
• The names of the fish on the album cover are a tribute to friends lost

Order a copy of Liminal Spaces by Myles Bullen

Back On The Grind Records - Get DIY, Folk Punk Music & merch:

• backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get Coffee for the Bandit in you; roasted by Pepe

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters to us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share your favorite episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part two of the 4 movies series, Spoken Nerd talks with Pepe Bandit about The Last Circus. A film they both loved so much it got its own episode dedicated to it. This is one of Pepe's all time favorite movies...Tune in to see what the hype is all about!

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

• The Last Circus - youtube.com/watch?v=fDhw367f9oI
• Balada Triste De Trompeta - RAPHAEL youtube.com/watch?v=DWnmzagelp8

Check out our previous picks from episode #46:

• Beast Of The Southern Wild - youtube.com/watch?v=pvqZzSMIZa0
• Accion Mutante - youtube.com/watch?v=jMZA9a_jx3Q
• The Substance - youtube.com/watch?v=LNlrGhBpYjc

Connect with Spoken Nerd

• instagram.com/spokennerd/
• open.spotify.com/artist/2CwUmIybp6G0dqkZvlfB2D?si=pUv_fB6NStCabpsc0HDdSQ

Back On The Grind Records - DIY Folk Punk & Music merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get coffee roasted by Pepe Bandit:

STAY FREE COFFEE ROASTERS

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters to us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share your favorite episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Stay Free until next time!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"I try to live my life in a fearless way"

Christoph Jesus of Crazy & The Brains, shares his journey as an artist, recalling experiences performing with various bands, the differences between opening & headlining shows, & the challenges of facing criticism. He emphasizes the importance of artistic freedom & the essence of punk rock, which he believes is rooted in intention & energy rather than strict musical boundaries. Christoph & Pepe explore the profound impact of family relationships, loss, & grief on creativity. The conversation also delves into cultural influences, particularly in film & music, through authentic storytelling as art. We close out the conversation playing the song "Punk Rocker" by Crazy & The Brains.

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Christoph values learning from every performance
• Opening for respected bands is a significant opportunity for growth
• Criticism can be a challenge, but it can also motivate you
• Being contacted by Iggy Pop
• Punk rock is about intention & breaking boundaries
• Artistic expression should be fearless & authentic
• The value of having positive family relations
• Loss can significantly influence artistic expression & creativity
• Exploring grief further
• Authentic storytelling in art is often overshadowed by commercial interests
• Cultural consumption should be approached with a critical eye for authenticity
• We play "Punk Rocker" by Crazy & The Brains

Connect with Crazy And The Brains

• Spotify open.spotify.com/artist/4qNUloovyPeo5wXRKRYFVD?si=Ahv-rcIAQiGJ7zdgjCymbw
• instagram.com/crazyandthebrains/
• crazyandthebrains.net/

Back On The Grind Records - DIY, Folk Punk & Music merch:

• backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get coffee roasted by Pepe Bandit:

STAY FREE COFFEE ROASTERS

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters to us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share your favorite episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Stay Free until next time!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spoken Nerd & Pepe Bandit each pick two movies for the other to watch & then discuss with you. This episode explores 3 of those films, Beast Of The Southern Wild, Accion Mutante, & The Substance. Check out the movie previews (linked below.)

Then in part 2 of this series, they dedicate the entire episode to The Last Circus (you might want to watch it before it airs on April 15th.) We close out the episode playing a track by Spoken Nerd!

Enjoy!

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Beast Of The Southern Wild - youtube.com/watch?v=pvqZzSMIZa0
• Accion Mutante - youtube.com/watch?v=jMZA9a_jx3Q
• The Substance - youtube.com/watch?v=LNlrGhBpYjc
• We play Secret Door To The mall by Spoken Nerd feat. Negro Justice
• The Last Circus - youtube.com/watch?v=fDhw367f9oI (discussed in upcoming episode #48)

Connect with Spoken Nerd

• instagram.com/spokennerd/
• open.spotify.com/artist/2CwUmIybp6G0dqkZvlfB2D?si=pUv_fB6NStCabpsc0HDdSQ
• ghettoblastermagazine.com/category/film/

Back On The Grind Records - DIY, Folk Punk & Music merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get coffee roasted by Pepe Bandit:

STAY FREE COFFEE ROASTERS

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters to us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share your favorite episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Stay Free until next time!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Rob & Noah from TheTaxpayers discuss their journey back to music after nearly a decade without a new album. They explore the themes of their upcoming release 'Circle Breaker', including trauma, loss, & the hope that follows. The band reflects on the resurgence of interest in their music, particularly through platforms like TikTok, & compares their past, more DIY shows to their recent performances, noting the differences in venue dynamics & audience engagement. Along with Pepe, they delve into topics like hot sauce, the bonds formed during challenging times & personal stories about forgiveness & redemption, emphasizing that no one is beyond hope. The discussion also touches on touring in Australia & the unique experiences there. The conversation wraps up delving into the nature of reality & the intriguing concept of Bigfoot & UFOs, suggesting a deeper spiritual connection to such phenomena.

Support the podcast/get bonus episodes + goods

• patreon.com/BackontheGrind

HIGHLIGHTS:

• The theme of circles on their upcoming album Circle Breaker
• Unexpected TicToc fame
• Shows then & now
• Thoughts on sound checks
• Noah & Rob give Pepe suggestions of what his potential venue should offer
• Alcohol Vs. no alcohol in venues
• The importance of inclusive, all ages spaces for music
• Making hot sauce at home & in prison
• Time in Tasmania
• Radical forgiveness & redemption
• Losing friends to suicide
• Rob discusses the duality of people who can be both generous & troubled
• The impact of simple gestures can save lives, as shared by Pepe
• The discussion on Bigfoot & UFOs leads to deeper questions about reality & perception

Connect with The Taxpayers

• instagram.com/the_taxpayers/
• thetaxpayersband.com

Back On The Grind Records - DIY, Folk Punk & Music merch:

backonthegrindrecords.bandcamp.com/music

Get coffee roasted by Pepe Bandit:

STAY FREE COFFEE ROASTERS

• StayFreeCoffee.com

Follow the podcast on Instagram

• instagram.com/backonthegrindpod/?hl=engram

Send us questions, comments or topic suggestions to

• Podcast@BackOnTheGrindRecords.com
• Leave a comment/question on Spotify or Instagram (we read them all)

***Word of mouth really matters to us. Here's two simple things you can do to help keep this podcast going strong:

• Share your favorite episode with a friend who you think will also enjoy it.
• Leave us a rating or review. It will help us reach & support more folks like you & that's why we do this :)

Stay Free until next time!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.