Justin Benlolo knew from a very young age what he wanted to do, and with the incredible backing of his family and friends, he has thrown himself full force into as many growth opportunities as possible in the last decade. With that, he has learned at a very young age how fickle and intriguing the music industry can be. 

The self-entitled debut album didn’t get a former label’s seal of approval, but I’m so thankful all involved enabled its release because it’s an astonishing record. The full-length debut is hook-filled and powerful, vocally rich and raw. It’s my kind of stand-and-deliver rock n roll.

BRKN LOVE

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This band seemingly has an innate ability to produce thunderous walls of sound that deeply impact me, because coupled with the openness and self-reflecting lyrics and its delivery from Amanda, they create extremely powerful art. Their self-titled record is as delicate as it is destructive. Here's A Conversation With Amanda and Steve of Bexley.

What was That?

Bexley

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Mercedes and Phoenix Arn-Horn signed to a major label deal when 16, but a decade later are now free to create on their own terms and the results are a collection of unapologetic and politically aware songs that I cannot stop listening to. They have no fear in shining a light on disturbing contemporary themes, like in BWBB where they address gender violence, and the double standard and hypocrisy of the “bro code”. 

Their second EP Year Of The Rat is released in February 2022, and while they only have a handful of songs out in the world at this moment, each one is compelling and powerful. Across all their releases you will find grunge meets shoegaze of the highest quality showcasing tender yet barbed vocals, delightfully expansive crunchy guitars, and a precise booming drum kit. I adore songs that have purpose through every step of creation, and Softcult are filled with an awful lot of passion and ability.

Softcult

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The Tazers are a psychedelic rock band from South Africa. My first introduction was care of the good old YouTube algo three years ago, and the utterly brilliant Love Machine. It was such a wonderful chat that covered so much ground from quirky recording and mixing techniques to the impact of streaming services, and how the rock scene is a true passion affair in Johannesburg.

The Tazers Bandcamp

The Tazers Spotify

What was That Radio

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These two best mates thrash, sweat, and have as much fun as possible and that energy hits me hard. I adore the quirky storytelling and relentless momentum they create. One of my favourite lines Lewis has penned is, “It’s like buying steak knives when you haven’t cooked a day in your life”.

Here's A Conversation With Lewis of Sophisticated Dingo.

Sophisticated Dingo

What was That

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Near two years ago I stumbled across Pep Squad and was instantly hooked. There was refreshing energy to their music, and not in the sense of what they're making, as to that they're making it in the first place. These are three experienced performers and creators with a clear edge to this collective sound. I was fascinated and excited to pick their brains. Here's A Conversation With Pep Squad.

Pep Squad

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"Stadium dreams on a bedroom budget." LOSER is a rock band from Melbourne, Australia. Their second record, "All The Rage", was one of my favourites of 2021, and it was such a thrill to speak with lead singer Tim and bass player Craig. I adore open and authentic conversation. We could have spoken all day, ha.

Thanks for being here.

LOSER

Listen to All The Rage

What was That? 

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Another from the Live From My Bachelor Pad Vault, and thus originally live-streamed in April of 2020, here's my conversation with the lead singer of Vancouver-based rock band, The Zolas.

We cover his love of Britpop and its inspiration on their latest record, "Come To Life". His love of Ultimate (Frisbee), Chorus/Flange effects, two cats, and the tall guy at the back of the show (himself).

The Zolas Linktree

The Zolas Website

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I first heard Alan Cross when backpacking in Canada over twelve years ago. I moved here chasing the dream of rock radio and up until mid-2020, I worked at The Zone @ 91-3 in Victoria. During my ten years there Alan and I crossed paths a couple of times, and he became an ally in my lust to grow as a broadcaster. Now I'm independent, I had to pick his brain over his practice and successful career.

Alan Cross has been in Canadian broadcasting for 40 years this year.

"In October 1980, I got my start at CKUW at the University of Winnipeg, which, at the time, was a closed-circuit station. Our broadcast range was limited to one hallway and one cafeteria."

Alan Cross

What was That?

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Calva Louise is one of the most exciting modern alternative bands on the planet. I have played the shit out of them since launching WWTR a little over a year ago, ha.

Here's their bio.

"Their eclectic sound is a molotov cocktail, encompassing ambitious songwriting and searing guitar hooks. Jess, Alizon, and Ben crossed paths in London during 2016, forming the band and quickly supporting the likes of Highly Suspect, Albert Hammond Jr., and Razorlight on tour. Since the band started, Calva Louise's songs have found heavy rotation across BBC1 with Jack Saunders, Huw Stephens, Annie Mac and Abbie McCarthy, BBC6 Music with Lauren Laverne, Steve Lamacq, Shaun Keaveny and the legendary Iggy Pop, X-posure with John Kennedy, as well as a live session at BBC Maida Vale Studios."

Thanks for being here,

Jon

Calva Louise

What was That?

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