Chris Collins Show

OFF THE FRET, MORE MUSIC, MORE MUSIC TALK! If you’re like ME – MUSIC is everything! Since day one it’s been a passion of mine to create an opportunity to showcase amazing up-and-coming artists. The CHRIS COLLINS SHOW has interviewed some of the most incredible international and national bands out there—from Finland, the Philippines, India and UK—to NY, LA, Texas and Nashville—you name it. We are so fortunate to have this outlet to show you guys some of the most talented musicians out there today! There’s no other medium that brings people together like LIVE MUSIC. Join me and listen to OFF THE FRET podcast.

What’s Good!? It’s Chris from the Chris Collins Millennial Talk Show. Featuring Brooklyn trio, Wakelee, setting the tone with their debut self titled album “Wakelee”. Lyrics that explore the complexities of human emotion. Joins, Off The Fret more music, more music talk. https://www.wakeleemusic.com

Binge Network CEO Bonnie Bruderer director of the documentary film Influencer joins JUST TALKING to discuss how millennials made millions of dollars with an iPhone. Social media has created a platform where just about anyone can fashion themselves as an influencer—BUT what does a millennial really know? Are they just a cheaper mouthpiece? Advertising is everything! Without advertising a product can die with the snap of a finger. 24-7 constant branding on social media means also being vulnerable to negative criticism, hurtful insults, lack of privacy and the worst of all trending fates—getting fizzled. Having a huge following is great for the brand but can humans process all these opinions? Influencers VS celebrities. Who do you go with? Who do you trust? Have tech companies created a virtual gladiator stadium and we the audience demand drama on the high court—WAIT are we the problem? Feelings not facts. Can an influencer push a brand for the money and simultaneously be guided by their moral compass? Weaponizing social media as a spying tool has been a hot topic this year. TikTok has been in the spotlight over accusations and potentially could be banned in the USA. Maybe TT needs to hire an influencer? Is social media the new cigarette? The government is proposing bills about child safety, addiction, mental health, screen time, etc.. WARNING: the surgeon general has determined that social media is dangerous to your health—BUT what isn’t these days? With syndication on 300+ smart TV’s there’s more than enough content to binge on.  Watch the Influencer on Tubi: https://tubitv.com/movies/705562/influencer

Just Talking

Vanessa Forsblad aka ‘thatonecatholicgirl’ aspiring Catholic apologist joins JUST TALKING on Good Friday to share the goodness. If religion is a relationship with God does that make your boyfriend a “side piece?” Time to change your profile on Christian Mingle to “praying the field.” At 18 most people have no idea what they want to do with themselves, life goals, etc. Vanessa knew early on there were two things she was passionate about, her faith and eating bean and cheese burritos with her grandmother. Religion has provided structure, tradition and values. She loves teaching and sharing, “because I just see the beauty of having something like that in your life.” Do you have to go to church to be spiritual? Millennials and Gen Z feel out of touch speaking about religion. WHY are people so reluctant to talk about their beliefs? Has technology become a new religion? We’re so connected now it should be easier than ever to share your faith. There’s been a decline in religious affiliation with Millennials and Gen Z. BUT is there an uprising on the verge? Apologist Vanessa says young people want the structure back, want a supportive community, an authoritative figure who can provide guidance and spiritual answers —— are we asking for an AI Jesus? Follow your moral compass. Use the search engine inside you and if you get no answers, let’s just pray on it first. Follow, listen and Pray: https://www.thatonecatholicgirl.com

Strike A Chord

Steve Ornest from Total Access Recording Studios joins STRIKE A CHORD to share his story about becoming a world renowned music producer. Lava lamps and keyboard players, it’s the recording studio dream. BUT how did young teenage Steve use his Gibson Les Paul guitar skills to pay the bills and get a new dad named Wyn Davis? Steve earned a degree at the Berklee College of Music in NY where there was fierce competition from eager rivals.  He found a new talent arranging and producing songs setting him apart from just being a guitar player. Hard rock and metal forever —— well, until you get a mortgage and family. “It can take 100 hours or more just on one song. It’s not just about making it sound good, it’s about making you feel something, capturing lightning in a bottle can take time.”  What are Producer Steve’s pet peeves? 1st more cowbell — a SNL Blue Oyster Cult sketch reference (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVsQLlk-T0s). 2nd I want to sound like this artist! This business is a team effort. You have to develop your brand. There’s writers, producers, agents, managers, etc.. Let’s do YOU and make the best version of what YOU are already doing. Produce that next album at Total Access Recording Studios: https://www.tarecording.com

JUST TALKING

Game contributor HenricK The WrecK and Ubisoft Community Development Director, Dan Mitre log into JUST TALKING to smash their video game controllers on the floor frustrated with gaming politics! They're just one life-heart away from the final stage and with 10% energy left can they beat the final boss? In gaming news the U.S. government wants to ban social media giant TikTok because they have concerns over China spying on Americans. Meanwhile Apple Siri, Microsoft Cortana, Google Home and Amazon Echo say— “don’t panic, we hear your concerns." The 2023 BAFTA (British Academy Games Awards) are coming up and why should we care? We don’t BUT let’s press start anyway. Which games do our esteemed panel of gamers nominate? God of War is the Beyonce of awards—multiple nominations but hasn’t sealed the deal. Will Elden Ring take home the gold? Totally Turtles dude! It’s a sleeper hit on the Nintendo Switch. It’s heavy on the cheese but can it deliver the “za” in 30 minutes or less? Voice Acting is getting the recognition it deserves but the competition is tight. Which VO performer takes the trophy in a video game leading role? The best games in 2023 are from 15 years ago! How does the video game industry justify serving stale bread to the fans? Is the nostalgic factor worth the price of entertainment — is there an appetite for these old moldy games? Don’t touch it, there are masterpieces in our world that need to be left alone. The Olympic Esports competition will take place in Singapore with games like Just Dance and Tennis Clash while snubbing established tournament franchises like Call of Duty and League of Legends. Gamers say the Olympics are playing it too safe and need to include headshots. Can we uncheck the parental controls—BUT the E in Esports stands for everyone! Even hockey players clean up their act for the Olympic Games! https://www.chriscollinsshow.com/henrick-the-wreck

STRIKE A CHORD

Vocalist/guitarist Dan Mitre joins STRIKE A CHORD to discuss his Punk Rock trio band Distortions. Rocking out of Raleigh, North Carolina the band has deep roots in the punk rock scene, the trio quickly established a fan base and position in the music community. Distortions is well known for crazy guitar riffs and an unwavering desire to perform live on stage. Rumor has it, this is how the band survives without food or water—feeding off the communal energy of the crowd. But how did former Bear vs Shark bassist Nick Jones and former Blitzkid drummer Andrew Winter link up with Dan Mitre to form Distortions? Music is medicine for the soul. The trio brings passion and emotion to every track but Mitre admits "you don’t really know until you see us live on stage." Their latest EP “Flies” addresses some heavy themes. “We’re all battling some form of depression, the demons ripping at our chest but there’s hope at the end of the day, we can persevere and we can endure and there is a reason to continue forward.” Community is vital to Distortions. We need to be human. You can’t spend every day pretending to be Superman. REACH OUT to people that love you, don’t be afraid. That commitment to community also created a record label, Bored to Death Records. Dan’s DIY punk rock campaign to offer a platform for independent artists without the pressure and politics of a large music label. Singles or Albums has been an on-going argument on the show BUT which side does Distortions go sideways with? The trio is a force of nature and their latest single “Castaways” is as punk as it gets. We’re all just “whimsy hypnosis charming castaways” on punk rock island. Follow, listen and Support: https://distortionsband.com

Writer/Director Ryan Lacen joins JUST TALKING to discuss his latest film All the World is Sleeping. Inspired by real life experiences the film is about “survival, making it in a world that doesn’t go easy on you; following a mother struggling with addiction while also trying to surface for her daughter.” All the World is Sleeping asks the audience to put themselves in someone else’s shoes instead of simply judging. “Let’s pull that curtain back and see what experiences they’ve been through… let’s see their life.” All films have obstacles and up-hill challenges. BUT how did 7 women and their stories shape the voice of justice in this film? Addiction is a heavy subject. Like Ryan many families have experienced some level of addiction that deeply affects family relationships, friends and co-workers. What can we do to help and support? A film of this caliber needs to be authentic. Ryan brought the 7 women on set as consultants to evaluate and provide guidance on this production. The results are immediately felt during the film. There’s a new perspective with an emotional connection for the audience to find empathy in the story and create a conversation walking out of the theatre. Follow, watch and Support: https://alltheworldissleeping.com

Denver Colorado Pop Punk Kings Bury Mia joins STRIKE A CHORD to thrash out their latest single “We've Been Trying to Reach You About Your Car's Extended Warranty.” Reinventing Pop Punk is their mission. That’s a big ask. So how is Bury Mia going to do this? “We’re super inspired by the early 2000’s bands. Taking Back Sunday, Blink 182… we’re trying to reprocess and make something new.” Bury Mia is tired of being stuck “inside.” They crave to reach out.  What’s the message Bury Mia wants to share? “Reach out to people, they’re having a hard time… not everyone is living perfect … reach out, they would appreciate the text message, just talking, a phone call… just checking on your friend's man.” It turns out Millennials hate voicemail but love social media for connecting—BUT it’s not the most therapeutic method. However, if you can’t afford therapy, then the next best thing is to download “We've Been Trying to Reach You About Your Car's Extended Warranty” by Bury Mia. Follow, listen and Support: https://www.burymia.com/

Louis-Charles Berthiaume (LC) was delivered DOA (Dead On Arrival) but somehow revived himself long enough to join STRIKE A CHORD. LC discusses his solo project Dead Alright—is it a blessing or a curse to produce an album in isolation? LC is the front man for Brand New Lungs and Never Hit Again but during the pandemic decided to explore creating music going commando—zero bandmates and opinions, freedom to explore—but mostly no pants! Dead Alright is a unique band name. If you have a cool band name you need cool artwork to go with it. The undead vibe started with looking like tortilla man from Slip Knot with a touch of Halloween. But how did this franken-zombie become the band's mascot? The band's debut single “Smoke and Mirrors” is a hardcore punk rock banger. The song is about being stuck in the past, rehashing old stories rather than going out and creating new memories. We’re looking forward to memorizing each new single until the album is released. Follow, support and listen: https://bfan.link/smoke-mirrors

OFF THE FRET, MORE MUSIC, MORE MUSIC TALK! If you’re like ME – MUSIC is everything! Since day one it’s been a passion of mine to create an opportunity to showcase amazing up-and-coming artists. The CHRIS COLLINS SHOW has interviewed some of the most incredible international and national bands out there—from Finland, the Philippines, India and UK—to NY, LA, Texas and Nashville—you name it. We are so fortunate to have this outlet to show you guys some of the most talented musicians out there today! There’s no other medium that brings people together like LIVE MUSIC. Join me and listen to OFF THE FRET podcast. More Music. More Music Talk!—with AMANDA COOKSEY!

4-piece motley crew THE NOW from South Wales joins STRIKE A CHORD to release the Devil Inside. When Elvis got on stage in the 1950's and shook his money maker the girls went wild but the critics went wilder. They said with moves like Jagger society as we know it would be destroyed and the gates of hell would open up and swallow all of us. However, after a quick satanic ritual from Sam Smith the WiFi started working and we opened the show—because everyone knows you have to wear a thong to get into Hell. Sex, drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll is the go-to counter culture sacrament but THE NOW is a movement not a judgement. A safe space to bridge those barriers. So, how does THE NOW deal with detractors saying your singing and dancing your way to hell? The lads admit to dancing topless and praising co-host Marissa for more sales. We’ll see how this goes but the ladies love it. Breaking Band? There’s a new debut LP about to drop. How many physical and mental obstacles does it take for Oli Jacobs to produce a full album? Each song has its own individual character. There’s more to the band than a quiet verse and big chorus. The gates are open at Chris Collins Show. Follow THE NOW support and listen: https://www.instagram.com/thenowuk

Brooklyn Emo band Wakelee joins STRIKE A CHORD to discuss their upcoming self-titled album, Wakelee. We all saw it and we need to address it. What happened to Rihanna’s Super Bowl 2023 HalfTime show? The performance was lackluster at best. BUT what did Howard Stern say that has everyone getting their twitter accounts cancelled—Wakelee has some sage advice for live performances! Alex (vocals/guitar) and David (drums) are identical twins and the triplet that went wrong is Elliot (vocals/bass)—so how do some Jersey bros link up with an Oregon player? This is a first!  Urban Dictionary doesn’t have a definition for Wakelee.  BUT it’s the perfect opportunity for the band to provide a backstory on how they named their band—although it’s the last place you would expect. The feeling of not knowing how to feel after something bad happens is spot on for Wakelee’s single “Mood Rings.” Sometimes we can be a "tin can"—having difficulty processing emotions and expressing feelings is confusing. Should I be angry, sad, mad, happy or glad. Is that profound enough or am I in Oz? Having an identical twin has some advantages. There’s a world of possibilities where we can swap roles at any time. BUT does that work with relationships? Enoughs, enough! Time to get this album out and we can’t wait to hear what Wakelee delivers.  Follow, support and listen: https://www.wakeleemusic.com

Los Angeles Rockers Londynne’s Falling joins STRIKE A CHORD to discuss their new single “911.”  It’s always interesting to hear a band's origin story. How did it begin? Who likes cake and ice cream? AND as long as we’re in a pandemic isolated from society let’s form a band! “911” instantly gives you Fail Out Boy vibes. The music video takes you back to high school teen angst, finding yourself, getting frustrated when definition doesn’t match description. Lead singer Londynne hints there’s a full album waiting for release—BUT why hold back? Is this a rock band fetish to get song fans desperate for another track? OR do fans want to be tickled, teased, given dribbles of singles rather than albums? To AI or not to AI? That is the song writer’s question! Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here to stay. However, just because an AI can write a song doesn’t mean we should let an AI write a song. Are we scared the AI will do a better job? Guitarist Jacobi.e says, “isn’t this just using a thesaurus to write a chorus?” If you get into trouble, CALL 911—BUT if you’re looking for a new millennial pop rock band CALL Londynne’s Falling. Follow, support and listen: https://www.instagram.com/londynnesfalling