In the conclusion of Sara J's epic two-part conversation with RoughGauge’s Featured Artist for June 2025, Marc Shapiro, we pick up right where we left off—diving back into the gear talk and Marc’s love for integrating the Jake blade into his setup.

Marc shares what makes the Jake blade a standout addition to his arsenal, and how RoughGauge’s legendary customer service ensured every detail was custom-fit—right down to accommodating his unique whammy bar setup and left-handed play style. From there, we explore how this custom Wilkinson build has seamlessly become a part of his sound, even making its way into the DNA of songs in his catalog.

The conversation flows into what’s next in Marc’s musical worlds, Infinite Drift and Greasy Hands, as he offers a sneak peek at upcoming happenings—including a pig roast on Saturday, September 13th, and what promises to be a legendary Halloween shindig.

We also dig into the heartbeat of the Baltimore music scene—from its deep jazz roots and iconic P-Funk residency to its thriving punk, metal, and Baltimore club communities. Marc paints a picture of a city rich in musical diversity, community spirit, and inclusive energy.

Then we shift focus to Marc’s passion for concert photography—how it sparked while writing for his college paper, the moment he realized he could get a photo pass, and how that led to a journey from point-and-shoot beginnings to capturing iconic artists. He reflects on the highs and lows of the craft, the beauty of small venues, and staying grounded in the love for local music.

We wrap with a powerful reflection on creative balance—the importance of stillness and nothingness, and the ever-evolving dance of moving forward, even if slowly.

Read Marc’s Featured Artist Q&A: https://www.roughgaugellc.com/featured-artists

Where you can find this week's guest:

Greasy Hands:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greasyhandsband/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreasyHandsBand

Infinite Drift:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infinitedriftband/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562600499050

Marc Shapiro Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcshapiromedia/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarcShapiroMedia

Would you or someone you know like to be a RoughGauge Featured Artist? Send an email to [email protected]

All things RoughGauge and Jake Blade: roughgaugellc.com (use my promo code Saraj10 to get 10% off on your order)

Dropped Among This Crowd Podcast Episode 228: A Conversation with Austin Davey & Mark Benjamin from RoughGauge LLC: https://droppedamongthiscrowdpod.simplecast.com/episodes/a-conversation-with-austin-davey-mark-benjamin-from-roughgauge-llc

Find RoughGauge on social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roughgaugellc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoughGauge

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RoughGaugeLLC

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