Strung Out

Send us Fan Mail

Show Overview

This episode of Strung Out—hosted by artist, writer, and musician Martin Laurence "Marty" McCormack—features an in-depth conversation with Chicago-based music journalist, author, and City Colleges professor Aaron Cohen.

The discussion explores Chicago's rich cultural history, the intersection of music and social empowerment, and Cohen's extensive career chronicling influential soul, jazz, and Latin American musical movements.

Detailed Summary & Topics Covered

1. Background & Cultural Influences (00:00:00 – 00:05:18)

• Growing Up in Evanston & Rogers Park: Cohen describes how the diverse northern suburbs and Chicago neighborhoods shaped his early interest in Caribbean rhythms, Latin American literature, and local poetry scenes.
• Literary Mentors: He shares personal connections with notable Chicago writers, including poet Raúl Niño and author Sandra Cisneros (The House on Mango Street).

2. Family Roots & Path to Music Journalism (00:05:18 – 00:14:15)

• Family Influence: Cohen discusses his father, Sheldon Cohen, who was an American history professor at Loyola University and wrote on Negro League baseball, and his mother, a book editor.
• Music Writing Career: Tracing his background from an English major at the University of Wisconsin to freelancing for publications like the Chicago Reader, Chicago Tribune, and serving as editor for DownBeat magazine.

3. Chicago Soul Music & Move On Up (00:14:15 – 00:41:03)

• Ethnomusicology Studies: Cohen discusses earning his Master's degree in Latin American Studies/Ethnomusicology from the University of Chicago.
• Chicago Soul Scene: Exploring his book Move On Up: Chicago Soul Music and Black Cultural Power, focusing on how artists like Curtis Mayfield, Baby Huey, Terry Callier, and Chaka Khan built independent economic and cultural power.
• Industry Figures: Remembering key figures like promoter/manager Eddie Thomas (Curtom Records) and unsung vocalists like Jackie Ross and Marvin Smith.
• (Mid-show musical break & promotional spot at 00:40:33)

4. Books, History, & Local Legacy (00:45:16 – 01:00:00)

• Garifuna Culture: Cohen details his Master’s field research on Garifuna music in Belize and its presence in Chicago.
• Chicago's Musical Heritage: A critical discussion on how Chicago honours its legendary musicians compared to cities like New Orleans, touching on local initiatives like the Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Joliet.

5. Deep-Dives: Aretha Franklin & Ramsey Lewis (01:00:00 – 01:16:40)

• Aretha Franklin's Amazing Grace: Cohen breaks down his 33⅓ series book on Aretha's iconic 1972 gospel album, featuring interviews with backing musicians Bernard Purdie, Chuck Rainey, and Cornell Dupree.
• Ramsey Lewis Memoir: Cohen reflects on co-writing the late jazz legend Ramsey Lewis's memoir, capturing Lewis's love for Chicago and his career milestones before his passing.
• Closing Thoughts: The interview concludes with insights into Cohen's teaching methods at City Colleges and his ongoing work programming for local blues and jazz festivals.

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

Mark Guarino is a veteran journalist (ABC News, Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor) who has also written numerous plays and books, including Killings in Kenosha: How Fear, Guns, and Lives Turned America Against Itself.

The Driving Force of Curiosity: Guarino explains that writing stems from a deep, compulsive curiosity and the desire to uncover the "why" behind complex subjects rather than seeking external inspiration.
Reporting on the Kenosha Book: Discussing his book on the events in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Guarino highlights the challenges of balancing emotional distance as a reporter during chaotic, dangerous situations, later synthesizing transcripts and interviews like a surgeon to structure the narrative.

Journalism vs. Playwriting: While journalism requires intensive research, transcript reviews, and computer work, Guarino views playwriting as a tactile, minimalist escape—preferring handwriting in blank sketchbooks with a pencil to foster a different creative headspace.

Collaboration in Theater: While writing plays independently, Guarino embraces the collaborative nature of theater, valuing directors and actors who bring dynamic interpretations to minimalist settings.

Advice for Writers: Guarino advises aspiring writers to find a compelling subject that draws them in, take a unique path instead of following trends, and establish a personalized working routine and discipline.

Explore the podcast

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

This episode of the podcast Strung Out, hosted by artist and musician Martin Laurence McCormack, features a conversation with Mark Guarino—a writer, journalist, and booking producer for ABC News.

The discussion explores Guarino ’s career and perspectives on journalism, covering:
Journalism and Storytelling: Mark discusses his background in writing and journalism, including his work at the Christian Science Monitor, the Washington Post, and the Daily Herald. He emphasizes the importance of "shoe-leather reporting," mentorship, and fact-based reporting in a changing media landscape.
The Intersection of Art and Journalism: The two discuss their shared belief that creative processes—whether writing plays, books, or articles—are all interconnected forms of storytelling. Guarino shares insights into his book Country and Midwestern, which examines Chicago's significant, often overlooked history as a hub for country and folk music, and discusses the "generational hand-off" of musical traditions in the city.
Media Literacy and Accountability: The conversation touches on the rise of "citizen journalism," the impact of social media on public perception and polarization, and the challenges of distinguishing between entertainment and factual news organizations. Guarino reflects on his firsthand experience covering the events in Kenosha, Wisconsin, in 2020, and the dangers of misinformation.
The Creative Process: Both hosts reflect on the ephemeral nature of art and live performance, comparing it to the structured, physical act of creating a newspaper.
The episode also highlights Guarino ’s upcoming book about his experience in Kenosha protests and McCormack’s mission to foster community through music. The session concludes with a transition into a future episode focused on the creative process this amazing, prolific writer.

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

Host Martin McCormack and Pastor Drew Jacques discuss the evolving role of the church and community in a turbulent world.

• Saint David's Presbyterian Church serves as a metaphor for society, with Drew emphasizing that while traditional institutions face decline, the core mission of the church should be to create inclusive, circular communities where power is shared among people.
• The conversation critiques the "prosperity gospel," arguing that success is not defined by material wealth, status, or influence, but by acts of service, compassion, and the ability to love and validate others.
• Drew describes his ministry as that of a "wilderness guide" who helps people navigate societal hardships and economic uncertainty, focusing on the fundamental principles of peace, hope, joy, and love.
• Reflecting on the 1960s and 70s, they note that popular music of that era frequently contained spiritual references and themes of unity, contrasting this with the current cultural climate that often lacks similar touchstones of hope.
• Saint David's, now referred to as "David's Place," has transformed into a hub for community connection, hosting initiatives like the "Dream Kitchen" to train neurodiverse youth, repair cafes, and screen-free events.
• They address the pervasive issue of narcissism, urging listeners to be cautious of figures who prioritize self-validation and ego-driven "megachurches" over genuine community connection and spiritual health.
• Reflecting on life and mortality, the discussion concludes with an emphasis on living in the "here and now," arguing that the ultimate success lies in touching the souls of others and maintaining deep, meaningful human connections.

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

Podcast Overview

• Show: Strung Out
• Host: Martin Laurence McCormack ("Marty")
• Guest: Reverend Drew Jacques (from St. David's Church in Campbellsville, Ontario)

Key Topics & Summary

1. Community Hub & Local Updates (00:00 – 02:30)

Reverend Drew discusses how St. David’s has recently transitioned into a community hub, hosting local summer camps to revitalize the space and support the Milton Community Resource Center.

2. Geopolitics & U.S.–Canada Dynamics (02:30 – 08:30)

• Canadian Politics: Drew notes general Canadian approval for Prime Minister Mark Carney and praises former MP Charlie Angus for articulating popular sentiment.
• U.S. Political Influence: They discuss media reports on U.S. politicians attempting to restrict Canadian sales of American goods and criticize political posturing/hubris across the border.
• Global Partnerships: Drew highlights Canada’s move to diversify international ties—such as acquiring submarines from Germany and strengthening trade relations—signaling a shift toward greater independence from U.S. political instability.

3. Christian Nationalism & Cult Dynamics (08:30 – 25:30)

• The "Ghosts of the Civil War": Drew argues that lingering racial and political divisions in the U.S. fuel extreme political movements.
• Christian Nationalism & Cult Mentality: They critique how right-wing movements and televangelists have "bastardized" Christianity. Drew explains how cults function: a narcissistic leader uses fear and chaos to gain absolute trust, promising safety in exchange for control.
• Core Christian Values vs. Modern Politics: Drew contrasts Christian nationalism with true faith, emphasizing that genuine teachings (e.g., Matthew 25) focus on feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, and building inclusive, compassionate communities.

4. Musical Interlude: "Fear" (27:03 – 31:19)

A musical segment featuring a song about navigating fear, uncertainty, and personal growth as both a "friend and a foe."

5. Forgiveness, Accountability, & Moving Forward (31:20 – 46:30)

• Handling Toxicity: The hosts debate how to respond to people caught up in destructive political or religious mindsets.
• Forgiveness vs. Reconciliation: Drew clarifies that forgiveness is about letting go of personal bitterness and chaos so you can move on—it does not require remaining in toxic relationships or condoning bad actions.
• Focusing on Community: Instead of arguing with hostile individuals, the solution is building resilient, supportive local communities that model positive values.

6. Revitalizing St. David's: "Church in a Circle" (46:30 – 58:41)

• Overcoming Institutional Struggles: Drew shares the difficulties St. David’s faced, including past leadership disputes, corruption, and financial strain.
• A New Model for Worship: To adapt, they moved services to the basement and introduced "Church in a Circle"—a communal, non-hierarchical gathering combining three key traditions:
  1. John 21 (informal fellowship and shared meals).
  2. Shabbat Dinner (gathering around a table to reflect and share).
  3. First Nations Listening Circle (passing a symbolic light source so everyone has a voice without interruption).
• Turning the Tide: This new approach revitalized their congregation, stabilized their finances, and provided a meaningful path forward away from rigid institutional norms.

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

Heroes come in many shapes and sizes.  And sometimes the heroic effort is for the most part unknown.  That could be said of the soldiers who fought and died for this country, only to be buried without acknowledgment of their service, or in some cases, buried without knowledge of who they are.  It also takes relatively unknown heroes to help find these soldiers from all American wars.  One such "unknown" is being revealed here on Strung Out.  Pat Gorman, originally from Dixon, Illinois began his journey of service when he repaired a strange grave ornament--that of a marked from the Grand Army of the Republic, (GAR) that was forerunner to today's American Legion or VFW groups.  This one act brought him into the world of finding soldiers who were denied a proper veteran's tombstone.  A lot of research, patience and travel was necessary in order for Gorman to help identify and properly honor the service of these soldiers.  Some of these soldiers were immigrant Irish, who fought in World War I and II for the United States only to be sent to Ireland to be buried.   One such amazing story Pat was involved in can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kZOS...

Gorman explains his work, how he and a handful of others are involved in making sure our warrior dead are not forgotten.  People can reach out to Pat through contacting Martin at [email protected] if they have particular family members who in need of having their grave located and given the proper soldier honor.

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

Molly Lenz is great at building.  A carpenter of sorts in the sense that she is able to build community through her house concerts.  These concerts are well known in the Chicago area and attract musicians from across the country.  
But you may ask, "what goes into making a successful house concert?"  This is where Lenz comes in.  Starting back in New Jersey, she created a concert series that brought talent into direct contact with "stalwarts" or avid music listeners.  These are people who are not into live music for the alcohol, a big arena spectacle or hearing the latest hit, but people who are desiring of the deep "electric" connection that develops during a concert in which a musician is presenting music that is instantly and purely being absorbed.  The result is something much more akin to a spiritual experience or the sort of catharsis that arises from meditation or yoga--it is a group energy cycle that takes place.  As highfalutin' as that may sound, that is what people experienced on a regular basis prior to amplification.  The mind's eye was the light show, the guitar and voice, all the amplification and the expectation was to listen intently and give back attention.  The whole experience an intertwined, uplifting and energizing. 
Taking that into account, there is something very trusting in opening ones home to strangers.  That we live in a time of lack of trust and fear only exacerbates that.  However, Lenz points out that there are few risks involved in hosting a house concert.  No one is in it to make a lot of money---in fact, "labor of love" is the term frequently used to describe both the host, audience and artist.  But the point is that in turning away from commercial music events and focusing on one-on-one musical experiences, we return to a form of community and communication that is closer to our ancestor's way of perceiving our world and each other.  The need for more of these opportunities is real and, in a world, where media, algorithms and AI are starting to infiltrate the mysterious and magic of music, more important than ever.

https://www.mollyshouseconcerts.com/

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

Molly Lenz is great at building.  A carpenter of sorts in the sense that she is able to build community through her house concerts.  These concerts are well known in the Chicago area and attract musicians from across the country.  
But you may ask, "what goes into making a successful house concert?"  This is where Lenz comes in.  Starting back in New Jersey, she created a concert series that brought talent into direct contact with "stalwarts" or avid music listeners.  These are people who are not into live music for the alcohol, a big arena spectacle or hearing the latest hit, but people who are desiring of the deep "electric" connection that develops during a concert in which a musician is presenting music that is instantly and purely being absorbed.  The result is something much more akin to a spiritual experience or the sort of catharsis that arises from meditation or yoga--it is a group energy cycle that takes place.  As highfalutin' as that may sound, that is what people experienced on a regular basis prior to amplification.  The mind's eye was the light show, the guitar and voice, all the amplification and the expectation was to listen intently and give back attention.  The whole experience an intertwined, uplifting and energizing. 
Taking that into account, there is something very trusting in opening ones home to strangers.  That we live in a time of lack of trust and fear only exacerbates that.  However, Lenz points out that there are few risks involved in hosting a house concert.  No one is in it to make a lot of money---in fact, "labor of love" is the term frequently used to describe both the host, audience and artist.  But the point is that in turning away from commercial music events and focusing on one-on-one musical experiences, we return to a form of community and communication that is closer to our ancestor's way of perceiving our world and each other.  The need for more of these opportunities is real and, in a world, where media, algorithms and AI are starting to infiltrate the mysterious and magic of music, more important than ever.  Check out her website at https://www.mollyshouseconcerts.com/

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

Molly Lenz grew up in Rogers Park, Chicago and from early on, her ambition was to be involved in music.  That passion resulted in a career as a DJ for a station in New Jersey, where she met her husband, who had of all things, a record store.  Molly was able to curate her own tunes there at the station, bringing listeners unheard of musicians who were not mainstream.  The record store literally a gathering place of new artists and the occasional live performance. After her husband's passing, Molly channeled her grief by having a concert in her New Jersey home.  The community that developed, along with the amazing shows made her understand that it was presenting concerts that best represented her ability to promote bands she loved, while giving those bands an audience that trusted her musical tastes.  Lenz decided to return back to Illinois and brought along her house concert, Molly's House Concerts to Lincolnwood, a few miles down the road from her old Chicago stomping grounds.  There she refined her talent for finding independent audiences and matching them with an audience intent on listening and being part of the evening and not just observers.  That was key in the success of her concerts, which has led to an amazing 18 major shows a year.   It also highlights the importance to the independent music community of having a venue like Molly's---a place that was free of the control that bigger venues exert on musicians, and a place where an audience could pay for energetic music, given up close and with intention.  House Concerts, like Molly's are the "keystone" of the independent music scene.  No one is there to get rich, except in Joy and celebration of live, independent music.  It is no wonder that such venues are often in the crosshairs of the music industry, looking for ways to extract money from independent artists and independent audiences.  This is the first of a two part series in which the community can learn from Molly's experiences in running a house concert and how to create independent concert venues for the benefit of player and audience alike.  Her website is www.mollyshouseconcerts.com

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...

Send us Fan Mail

James Weigel is a journeyman musician.  He devotes much of his time working at the local music shop, Flatts and Sharpe, teaching students on a variety of instruments.  He then also spends a great deal of time performing for various venues throughout Chicago.  These venues range from the local watering hole to more listening friendly rooms.  Those lucky enough to be able to listen to Weigel's songs will be struck by the thorough work he puts into each word he chooses for a lyrical phrase.  Not trying to be clever, but done with a sincere outlook on his path in life and his own observations of the world he lives in.  Inspired by other great songwriters, like Willie Nelson and Woody Guthrie, Weigel's songs have that beautiful weight of words in every line.  Those words are straightforward and simple, but in total create a song that can pack an emotional and thought-provoking punch.  Like many independent singer-songwriters, Weigel has almost an aversion to the notion of pursuing fame and notoriety.  He instead seeks out playing for those willing to listen to his words and songcraft.  In this interview, Weigel touches on how he goes about creating songs and how his melodies can be first or last depending on the situation.  Great insight and advice from someone who is naturally a performer and, lucky enough for students in Chicago, naturally a teacher. 
His websites are: 
https://www.ensembleschools.com/flatts-and-sharpe/staff/james-weigel/
https://www.facebook.com/JamesWeigelUnderTheFloorboardsMusic/

Support the show

We are always grateful to have you listening to STRUNG OUT.    Here are some important links:

SUPPORT THE SHOW:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MartyfineaK

MARTIN'S WEBSITE:
http://www.MARTINMcCORMACK.COM 
(note---you can get my weekly bulletin when you sign up on the list!)

MARTIN'S MUSIC:
Music | Martin Laurence McCormack (bandcamp.com)
Martin McCormack | Spotify

MARTIN'S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Martin McCormack - YouTube

FACEBOOK
Facebook...