In this episode, Kristy sits down with Jack and Dawson from Bummer Hill for a deep dive into the band’s creative process, the evolution of their sound, and the realities of being a DIY band in today’s music landscape.

Topics Covered:

• The origins of Bummer Hill and how the band members met through film school.
• The making of their acclaimed record "Far Removed"—from songwriting and track selection to the emotional and musical journey behind the album.
• The band’s approach to visuals, music videos, and the influence of their film backgrounds.
• The challenges and strategies of promoting a band in the age of TikTok and Instagram, including the importance (and frustration) of social media for independent artists.
• The evolution of the band’s lineup and sound, with a focus on collaboration and letting each member’s strengths shine.
• A candid discussion about the state of the emo/DIY scene, the pressure to fit into trends, and the value of authenticity.
• The story behind their new double single "Don’t Ask Me What These Songs Are About," including lyrical themes of communication, isolation, and the desire to be heard.
• Reflections on the grind of booking tours, building an audience, and what keeps the band motivated despite the odds.

Notable Quotes:

• “We want to be unpredictable. We want to have solid songwriting at the core, but keep you on your toes.”
• “The thing that keeps me going is wanting to make a mark—so that some other kid feels what I felt when I discovered the bands that moved me.”
• “If you’re serious about being in a band and you’re not pummeling TikTok, you’re cooked.”

Listen for:

• Insights into the creative process of a modern emo band.
• Honest talk about the music industry, community, and staying true to your vision.
• Fun stories, music theory tidbits, and plenty of laughs.

Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, please rate, review, and share.