CORE

CORE

By Andy McNamaraMusicMusic Interviews
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CORE episodes

  • Jason Goessl & Jeff Davis from TRS Recording Studio

    In this in-depth panel discussion, Fox Cities Core welcomes Jason Goessl, Jeff Davis, and stories from Randy Darabosh, the three creative minds behind TRS Recording Studio in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. From the studio’s roots in a historic 150-year-old building to its rebirth as a hub for independent artists, this episode dives into the passion, purpose, and punk spirit driving TRS forward.Hear how these musicians and producers built a space that blends vintage acoustics with modern production, supports local talent, and offers everything from studio rentals to label services through Sungoose Records and Surumi Records. They share behind-the-scenes stories from the studio’s revival, the upcoming 25th anniversary show at Fletch’s, and the philosophy of empowering artists with proper publishing, distribution, and community support.Find out more about TRS Recording Studio at:trsrecordingstudio.comCode Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com#TRSRecordingStudio #OshkoshMusicScene #StudioTalk #RecordLabels

    53 min
  • Mark Hudson - Irish Fest of the Fox Cities

    On this episode of Code Zero Radio’s Fox Cities Core, Executive Director Mark Hudson gives us a closer look at the upcoming Irish Fest of the Fox Cities. From the music and dancing to the food and family-friendly activities, Mark shares what makes the festival such a vibrant celebration of Irish culture and community. He reflects on how the event has grown over the years into one of the Fox Valley’s most anticipated traditions, while still keeping its heart in bringing people together. With exciting new performers joining the lineup and plenty of opportunities to discover authentic Irish experiences, Mark paints a picture of a festival that’s about much more than entertainment — it’s about connection, culture, and celebrating heritage.Find out more about Irish Fest of the Fox Cities at:irishfestfoxcities.comCode Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com

    40 min
  • Tarl Knight and Kylie LaCombe of All Bands on Deck

    Tarl Knight & Kylie LaCombe stopped by to talk about the fifth annual All Bands on Deck that is happening in Green Bay on Friday-Saturday, September 12-13, 2025! Green Bay's biggest music festival will feature live, local bands in the Shipyard District along South Broadway and the Fox River! Visit 100+ performances by live, local bands at a dozen bars, restaurants, and food trucks throughout the Shipyard District, food and drink specials at participating businesses, and free shuttles sponsored by the Brown County Tavern League. Admission is free to all!shipyarddistrict.org/all-bands-on-deckWe were also joined by special guest co-host Ben Rausch. You might have seen Ben out at one of the many shows he has booked and promoted. Ben is also a writer and manager for the band Elmer Glueskin!Code Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com

    48 min
  • Me Like Bees

    Me Like Bees is an indie rock band from Joplin, Missouri. Since forming in 2009, the band has released multiple singles, EPs and albums. They created a huge buzz during their first performance at Mile of Music and continue to call Appleton their second hive. The band is currently on a headlining tour in support of their latest single "Shush". Luke and Jake from the band stopped by Code Zero Radio for an interview on Fox Cities Core prior to playing the first of two shows they had scheduled in Appleton for the weekend.Find out more about Me Like Bees at MeLikeBees.comCode Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com

    #MeLikeBees #CodeZeroRadio #FoxCitiesCore #MileofMusic

    1 hr 7 min
  • Soultru

    An interview with Terrence Banks, the artist known as Soultru, covers his musical journey, personal life, and experiences in the Quad Cities music scene. He discusses his style, which he describes as "acoustic soul" with "hip hop elements," and how he was influenced by his upbringing, including listening to rock music against his mother's wishes and being exposed to his family's church choir traditions.Soultru also shares the story behind his stage name, explaining that "true soul" was a concept that resonated with him and he modified it to be "Soultru". The conversation also touches on his experiences as a father, including how his daughter has inspired his songwriting . He also shares an anecdote about meeting a mailman with a Grammy in Appleton, Wisconsin. Finally, the interview delves into his preference for playing with a full band over solo shows, as it allows him to have more fun with his friends on stage.You can find out more about Soultru by subscribing to his Patreon at:patreon.com/SoultruCode Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com

    1 hr 7 min
  • Terra Lightfoot

    Canadian rocker Terra Lightfoot joins us for an in-depth, hilarious, and heartfelt conversation ahead of her performances at Mile of Music in Appleton, WI. Joined by bandmates Eli Abrams (bass) and Rob Bradford (drums), the trio shares wild road stories—including literal onstage fires—gear mishaps, and band tattoos, all while reflecting on their musical journey and tight-knit bond. Terra talks about her early musical influences, her powerful voice, upcoming acoustic album, working with her husband John Auer (The Posies), and the magic of live performance. Plus, they talk about the chaos of setlists, being proud three-time Juno nominees, and their work with Joey's Song for epilepsy research.TerraLightfoot.com

    42 min
  • Twistin' Egyptians

    Join us for an in-depth conversation with Steve and Kurt of the legendary band, Twistin' Egyptians! They're joined remotely by their drummer, Brad, all the way from California.In this interview, they take us back to the 1980s music scene, discussing:- The band's origins: How Twistin' Egyptians formed in early 1984, starting out as an original band.- Their discography: Insights into their albums like "Perils of Young Models" and their 45 single of "Shakin' All Over".- Life on the road: Stories from playing over 200 gigs a year, including multiple appearances at Summerfest, and performing in cities like Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago.- Electric Lady Studios: The unforgettable experience of recording at the famous Electric Lady Studios in New York City, and a memorable encounter with a then-unknown Debbie Gibson.- The Oshkosh Scene: Their perspective on how the music scene in Oshkosh evolved during the 80s.- Live Show Energy: What made their live performances so energetic, unpredictable, and entertaining.Don't miss these "OG rockers" as they share their journey, musical influences (including the Beatles ), and what it's like to reunite for upcoming shows!Subscribe!https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcvkZLJoveb8UNdXMLSZAXA?sub_confirmation=1Fox Cities Core is a live interview show that airs live on WCZR Code Zero Radio.CodeZeroRadio.com#FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #LiveInterviews #TwistinEgyptians #TwistinEs

    1 hr 4 min
  • Kristin Lytie and Holly Trasti

    Code Zero Radio's Fox Cities Core! Broadcasting live from Appleton, Wisconsin , this episode features two forces in the local arts scene: comedian Kristin Lytie and musician Holly Trasti of Holly & the Nice Lions! In this packed episode, Kristin Lytie dives into her role organizing the comedy portion of the GBUFO Invasion Fest 2025 , discussing the unique challenge of bringing stand-up comedy into a music festival space, particularly the need for seating and closer crowds. She shares insights from curating a lineup of national comedians like JT Haversat, Matt Arlotto Martin, Shonda Sung, and Shannon Norman. Kristin also reflects on her past experience performing comedy at the legendary Warped Tour , detailing the perks like free shoes and golf cart rides , and shares excitement about her upcoming opening set for comedian Brian Posehn this September. Learn about the success of her comedy album "Disassociation Vacation," which hit number one on iTunes , and her zine "Uniontown". Kristin also discusses the nuances of comedy, including navigating dark humor with different crowds and the distinctions between hosting and featuring sets.Holly Trasti joins the conversation to discuss Holly & the Nice Lions' recently completed album, which they recorded in New Mexico with acclaimed producer Patrick Haight. Holly also gives us an update on the animated movie project she's co-directing, associate producing, and lead voice acting in , sharing incredible stories of working with stars like Christina Ricci , Sheryl Lee , Louis Gossett Jr., and Ed Asner. Plus, find out what it was like recording a song for the movie's soundtrack with her biggest musical influence, Corin Tucker of Sleater-Kinney, and legendary producer John Goodmanson. Kristin and Holly also reminisce about their over 20-year friendship, which began in women's studies at UW , and discuss the GBUFO Invasion Fest's unique in-person ticket sales at local record stores. They touch on the energy of Holly & the Nice Lions' music, describing it as "loud," "energetic," "art rock, post-punk" , and share insights on what it takes to be a working musician and comedian today, emphasizing the importance of community and authenticity.#KristinLytie #HollyTrasti #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #GBUFOInvasionFest #WarpedTour #BrianPosehn #HollyAndTheNiceLions #Comedy #Music #NewAlbum #GreenBayWI #AppletonWI #LiveMusic #Podcast #RadioInterview #Milwaukee #Madison #MusicFestival #ComedyShow #FoxCities #WisconsinMusic

    48 min
  • Seasaw

    Join us live from our studio in Appleton, Wisconsin, as we dive deep with Seasaw, the fantastic indie-rock duo from Madison! Meg and Eve of Seasaw chat about their latest album, "Projecting," and share the challenges of having similar names and mannerisms! They also talk about their recent visit to Appleton's Bowl91 – and yes, it was delicious!In this interview, you'll discover:- Their 15-Year Journey: Hear how Meg convinced Eve to form Seasaw back in 2010, starting with CocoRosie covers at a coffee shop in Freeport, Illinois, and evolving from folk to their current indie-rock sound.- "Projecting" & The COVID Era: Learn about the unique, three-year process of creating their album "Projecting," much of it recorded remotely during the pandemic, and how they balanced heavier themes with their signature bouncy, effervescent music.- The "Dial Me Up" Secret: Get the inside scoop on how a dial-up modem sound effect became the foundation for their track "Dial Me Up" and the creative process behind its fun, '90s-inspired music video directed by Nate Chapelle.- The Power of Partnership: Understand how their complementary skills (Eve's art mind, Meg's marketing background) drive their DIY approach and how their strong trust has been essential through all the ups and downs.- Behind the Music Videos: A look at their favorite music videos, including the messy but memorable "Ex-Girlfriend" and the incredibly creative, handmade "Godzilla" costume!- The Madison & Appleton Scenes: Their thoughts on the evolving Madison music scene (shout out to new venues like Atwood Music Hall!) and their positive experiences playing in Appleton, including at Appleton Beer Factory and Stone Arch Brewpub.- Touring & The Future: Hear about the challenges of balancing full-time jobs with touring, their furthest shows (Brooklyn! Austin!), and why they're pouring energy into their next album, which will feature a live drummer for a "beefier" sound.- The "Seasaw" Name & The "Death Clause": Discover the deeper meaning behind their band name and why it perfectly describes their balancing act, plus the hilarious "death clause" that keeps them together!🔔 SUBSCRIBE to Code Zero Radio for more exclusive interviews and local music content! #Seasaw #IndieRock #MadisonMusic #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #WCZR #AppletonWI #NewAlbum #Projecting #BandInterview #MusicHistory #DIYMusic #WisconsinMusic #FoxRiverHouse #LiveMusic

    32 min
  • Tony McNamara

    Join us for a candid conversation with Tony from Pudge as he dives deep into the band's journey, the evolution of their sound, and his unique philosophy on what makes a live performance truly exciting.In this interview, Tony opens up about:The Imposter Syndrome: How Pudge felt like outsiders and battled self-doubt in their early days, realizing only years later that authenticity (and longevity!) wins.The "Pudge Sound": Despite genre comparisons (Weezer, Cheap Trick), Tony shares his take on how Pudge has maintained their distinct style and the journey to embracing who they are as a band.The Mile of Music Experience: A raw look at the band's early struggles to be part of the festival, the anxiety of selection, and the often-humorous lengths they went to just to "be a part of it.The "Danger" Factor: Tony expands on the idea that great bands need a little "danger" in their music – that unpredictable edge that truly engages an audience, and why many talented artists might lack this crucial element.The State of Local Music: A critical (and often humorous) take on local music trends, from the "Americana" and "Emo" eras to the rise of "SALMs" (self-absorbed local musicians).The Future of Pudge: Get an update on their new songs, the bittersweet process of moving forward after loss, and how they're navigating playing as a four-piece with new members joining their lineup for upcoming shows like Mile of Music and Oktoberfest.Vinyl vs. CDs: Tony's thoughts on the vinyl resurgence, his surprising return to CDs, and the ever-changing landscape of music consumption.Ode to Elder Statesmen: A heartfelt appreciation for long-time local musicians like Frank Anderson, who continue to embody the spirit of rock in the Fox Cities.Don't miss this insightful and entertaining discussion with a true veteran of the Fox Cities music scene!0:00 Imposter Syndrome & Enduring as a Band02:45 The Pudge Sound: Comparisons & Identity06:20 Mile of Music: Early Struggles & Desperation13:05 Why Bands Need "Danger"19:30 Local Music Scene & The "PSALMs"25:00 Pudge's Future: New Songs & Lineup Changes30:15 Vinyl vs. CDs & Music Consumption34:00 Respect for Long-Time Musicians38:30 Best Live Shows & Joining Other Bands#Pudge #TonyFromPudge #MusicInterview #FoxCitiesMusic #MileOfMusic #LocalMusic #BandLife #MusicianInterview #AppletonWI #MusicIndustry #LiveMusic #BandDynamics #ImposterSyndrome #Vinyl #CDs #CodeZeroRadio #FoxCitiesCore

    59 min

About CORE

From the publisher's feed

Core is a weekly interview and music show on Code Zero Radio WCZR. The show airs live Saturday mornings from 9-10am CST. We focus on artists from the Fox Cities area of Wisconsin. You can listen to…