On this episode of the Illinois Drifter Podcast, host Justin Conn sits down with members of Nomad Planets for an in-depth conversation about their long history, creative process, and commitment to original music.

Justin first discovered Nomad Planets after seeing them open for the Steepwater Band, and what began as curiosity quickly turned into a deep appreciation for a band that rewards repeat listens and defies easy categorization. In this episode, singer-guitarists Mark Mybeck and John Carpenter, along with bassist Phil Rapchak, talk about how the band formed, how their lineup evolved over decades, and how their weekly Tuesday-night studio sessions have become the backbone of their songwriting and sound.

The discussion covers everything from their early recordings and albums dating back to The Indestructible Drop (2001), to fan favorites like You’re Never Lost Until You Panic, to their most recent work following COVID, including Outside Abiquiu. The band also shares insight into their organic, ego-free approach to collaboration, the importance of live performance, and what it takes to keep creating original music later in life.

Justin wraps up the episode by reflecting on Nomad Planets’ unique sound and influences, previewing upcoming live shows, and teasing what’s next for the Illinois Drifter Podcast — including upcoming episodes featuring Sunshine Daydream, JJ Grey & Mofro coverage, and a special guest he expects to return often.00:00 – Introduction to the Illinois Drifter Podcast

00:45 – Discovering Nomad Planets & first impressions

02:00 – Band origins and early history

04:10 – Lineup evolution and long-term collaboration

08:55 – Adding drummer Terry Boylan

10:25 – Chris Grove joins and expands the band’s sound

11:45 – Defining (and not defining) the Nomad Planets sound

14:20 – The Tuesday night studio ritual

17:40 – Writing songs live and embracing imperfection

18:55 – Albums as individual statements

20:30 – Playing live, aging, and staying motivated

23:00 – What’s next: new recordings and release plans

24:30 – Supporting original music venues

25:45 – Upcoming live shows

27:45 – Host reflections on influences and sound

29:15 – What’s coming up next on Illinois Drifter

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