Dusty Futon

Two sets of paternal twins make up the Alternative band ‘After The Millennials’. From the same parents too! The familiar nature of these kids (16 and 19) helps make their harmonies sweet and beautiful. They grew up with instruments surrounding them and naturally fell into it. The youngest twins, Nate and Naomi (16), are kind of the glue for this group…mainly Naomi actually. She’s also the one who does most of the talking, writing, and singing. Their parents came out to watch the recording…and to protect us from these wild and sarcastic kids. It took us awhile to really nail down the lineage of these kids, but when we do we find out the Nate and Naomi are the youngest set of twins, playing Drums and Guitar respectively. Seth and Sarah are the oldest and provide the Piano and Bass…Seth couldn’t make it to the recording, but he was there in spirit! Their music comes together wonderfully with silky harmonies, smooth melodies, and stories from the heart. Make sure to follow After The Millennials on social media…th

Koda Sounds is a 4-piece rock band built with members from all over Southern California, but still having some San Diego roots!  You might recognize Paul and Renee from their former cover band “Strange Affliction,” and they play the eponymous original song from their latest album “Back to Life” LIVE for us in studio! We learn from each member where they’re from and how they ended up in San Diego, and the stories grow from there. Including how Tyler RESEARCHED THE WRONG KODA! These guys go by “Koda Sounds” everywhere you find them… The band’s latest album is titled “Back to Life” and we get to hear the title track early on in this episode. This album has an interesting story with surrounding the last song…it’s also the only song Paul sings lead vocals on. The whole band brought their instruments (the cheap ones) to perform a live version of “Strange Affliction” and Tyler finds he likes a mic’d up Cajon! We’re also very lucky to get a DEBUTON with the new song “Can You Ride.” Don’t forget to follow them at koda

Squeaky Buddha are three guys who came to us via our website and we could not have been happier to meet them. Wes and Jessie are very close brothers, who actually failed in a band together before, and the two just decided to move to San Diego and do music full-time! Apparently Nashville and New Zealand were already checked off their list…and their drummer Cody followed them from Nashville. These guys busk, live in their cars, and bust their asses at open-mic’s all over San Diego just to do what they love… This episode is unique as Squeaky Buddha hasn’t recorded an album yet, so we have them plug right in and mic up the studio’s cajon and have ALL LIVE RECORDINGS! Wes and Jess write the music together, with each of them singing their own songs. These guys have been playing together about five nights a week, and the live performances shows. They go through tempo changes as if a conductor was counting time, their harmonies are tight, and their soulful voices might send shivers up your spine. Enjoy all the “shout

Scott Thorn wouldn’t exist, as a solo artist that is, if it wasn’t for his wife! This singer/songwriter was pushed by his wife to finally take his original stuff public. Scott humbly thanks her, as well as nearly every person he’s worked with, before ever touting his own accomplishments. Which are many! He’s already a very prolific writer and has many songs written, he was one of five artists picked to write a song for the 2016 Acoustic Guitar Project, and has worked with many skilled producers. Scott is full of stories and happily shares his thoughts on many topics from Shoe Trees to his beautiful Gibson guitar. This National City, CA resident, traveling by way of Florida, D.C, and many other places, has evolved his sound through his travels, as well as his many projects he been a part of. From Hair Metal to Country, and recording for the first time at Blitz Recording studio he’s nailed down who Scott Thorn is…musically. We preview three of his songs, one being a NEVER BEFORE HEARD acoustic version of a new

Eric Lieberman has been playing the blues in San Diego since 1981...but it wasn’t until Alicia, his wife, agreed to sing with him did Blue Largo form. This 6-piece band consists of many members; however, Eric and Alicia are the duo behind the music. Well, mainly it’s Eric’s bike. We talk about how he comes across his original music and how they choose the covers they work with, while Cory tells blind jokes and “dirty” jokes. Eric also shares his condition that limited him for many years, but he doesn’t let it slow him down anymore! Eric insists Alicia’s angelic voice is what makes the song. He also laments about how band leaders really shouldn’t try to “mold” singers to their vision…rather, find someone who fits your style! We share three of their original tracks from their latest album, “Before The Devil Steals Your Soul.” With eleven originals on this album, and many more on the way (even though Alicia disabled his bicycle), find Blue Largo’s performances on their website at www.BlueLargoBlues.com or their

Eddie Salcido, the blind Pianist…T, has been HARD at work with our cohost Cory Wilkins to create his new album. He happened to be down from LA (we've been trying to get him to STAY down here) recording and he sat on the Futon to share what he and Cory have been working on.  Although he follows classic country roots, thank to the Mac Davis show, his new album incorporates many different elements around that classic sound.  Not a departure...just growing another root. This full-blown "RedNexican" is blind from birth and has had a passion for music as long as he can remember.  We talk about what that was like and how he's overcome obstacles.  We touch on stereotypes and how that can work against and for him in his music career.  Our resident blind guy commiserates as we talk about it.  We do share a few songs from his newest EP and learn about how personal his music can be. 10:41 - "She Loves" 25:26 - "So Do I" 38:14 - "Wait a Minute" The Dusty Futon, LLC is focused on revolutionizing the music industry…one arti

This is Americas Favorite Punk! That’s their name, so it’s kind of a thing. Mathan (pronounced MATH – IN) began his music career as a HARDCORE drummer for a few bands before forming Americas Favorite Punk. He initially developed the idea as a cover band with an old band buddy. As they practiced the classic punk artists and developed their chops a decision was made to go all original and then Mathan decided to go solo. It’s now an original project founded as of August 2018 and Mathan has an interesting take on how to bring music out. He’s starting with singles…but, he has a slightly different plan on the album, and Cory Wilkins weighs in on that. His music is mostly tradition Punk, with a splash of Alternative. He brought us three tracks, one of them a rough mix of “Punk Rock Jacket Girl,” formerly titled “Charlene.” When we recorded this episode the song hadn’t been released. Listen to it on Spotify and compare the released version to the teaser we played at the end. The conversation veered away from music, a

Christopher Sluka is an experimental rock artist who just can’t stop doing! Not just with music, life in general. This outrageous and outspoken man humbly tells us how hard he works and downplays his tenacity towards getting the project done. He even admits he has a bit of OCD. The guy has grouped together four pilots who love music and appreciate his style. He brought along his new bassist, Anna Eppink, whom he met at his flight school (Learn To Fly San Diego). She’s an accomplished artist and pilot in her own right, “I just have to be up in the air…or playing music,” she says. Sluka earned a bit of coin after getting signed to a label in Japan; he invested in airplanes and teaching others how to fly instead of in the stock market. It’s come in handy when needing overhead shots or to travel with gear though…since he owns the planes. Christopher Sluka is prolific in many arts including painting. He has toured his works around the world and creates his own album covers. Speaking of that, we play some tracks fr

His name describes his style of music…he’s all about that BASS! DJ Bassassin really likes our headphones because he can feel those low vibrations that he’s meticulously crafted to get right into your soul. This guy didn’t start DJ’ing until 22 and he tells us that he switched from playing in a rock band to writing beats and crafting tracks mainly for the money.  While that might be mostly true, he definitely has the passion for it though; working long into the night and days at a time to make these songs takes some sort of passion and dedication. And…he’s good... He currently has a residency at The Moxy on 6th in Downtown. Every other Friday!  DJ Bassassin talks about starting on his “Fisher Price” equipment using Fruity Loops and how his tenacity drove him up the ladder. Late nights, no showers, missing meals…he works hard and it shows. He’s already put out a couple of EP’s and a full album. He performs as often as possible and doesn’t plan to stop. Wearing his Eazy-E socks and headphone adorned hat he look

Rick Shelley tried Glam Rock with his high-school buddies in Walla Walla, WA (so fun to say that), but it never really suited him. He started tarting in the band “Rag Tag,” where Rick just wanted to play guitar, but his band mates eventually took that from him and made him the singer…since he was the only one that actually could. One of those former bandmates was Nick Oliveri from Queens of The Stone Age. Moving from there into a band called “WoodShed” (Where he technically never left) he started to discover more about his music. Rick sheds some light on the transition from band member to solo artist. It can be scary and nerve-racking, but it definitely is rewarding. Many of Rick’s songs are story based, lending people to think they are about someone or something specific. His new album “Hope Wrapped in Razor Wire” is just a glimpse into the depth of Rick, and he even explains that title to us. We play a song from that album, Rick PERFORMS one LIVE, and he even gives us a teaser of a new song he’s been workin

There’s such a storied history among these four core members of Mohavisoul! Orion is a Berklee College of Music graduate, Mark has a degree in science, Randy has an extensive and prolific music pedigree, and the other guys are no slouches either. These guys have an interesting strategy when writing their songs and allow their individual style’s of music blend and cross through different genres, creating their own unique sound! We get a live performance featuring the Banjo from the English-Born Jason Weiss, an Upright Bass by Orion Boucher, the Mandolin by Randy Hanson, and the Guitar styling’s of Mark Miller towards the end of the episode! We love being able to give you guys exclusive experiences like that! We missed out on the Fiddle that ∫ adds to the group. MohaviSoul released their newest album in 2017 and we feature two tracks from it, along with the LIVE PERFORMANCE! “Hometown Blues” is the title track and was written by Mark…and it definitely takes you to a good ol’ hometown feel. The guys released two

He’s prolific in musical instruments and writing songs…Doug Schmude (rhymes with moody) graces us with his presence this episode. Tyler had a flashback when he saw his Harmonica harness, remembering his days of wearing braces with a full mouth guard! Luckily, he comes back to reality in time to get this Baton Rouge native turned life-long Southern Californian to share some stories. Doug finds himself getting inspiration from nearly every situation you could imagine, “Songwriting is a lifestyle” the father of twin 11-year-olds states…and we couldn’t agree more. Doug’s first album was released in 2003, “A New Century,” and was nominated for the Orange County Music Awards! His newest album “Burn These Pages," released in 2018, features more story-based originals from the self-taught guitarist (after only 6 months of lessons). Garnering inspirations from 70’s rock and other vinyl from back in the days Doug pieces together emotional stories blended with Rock and Indie sounds. We play two songs from this new album

TreBlac is a young producer working hard to be his best. This kid has already put out two albums (actually three…we explain in the episode) and many singles... He's constantly trying to improve on his skills. This dude ended up becoming a lyricist and rapper thanks to the Imperial Valley lacking in talent…according to him (NOT US!). He brought those skills to the San Diego scene for you guys. He features a few tracks from his latest album “Arcania” and tells us an emotional story behind the reprise of “With Me” at the end of the album. Even before telling that story TreBlac shares that one of his best influences in writing is heartbreak. We touch on Fruity loops, a.k.a. FL Studio, to Big Jon’s delight, and hear many blind jokes were made at Cory’s expense. We had so much fun chatting with Trevor in this episode. 13:06 – “What Up” 30:48 – “With Me (Reprise)” 41:25 – “Summer 95 (feat. Megan Steinke)” The Dusty Futon, LLC is focused on revolutionizing the music industry…one artist at a time! We provide free to

This episode makes us all feel a little ADD with the hilarious antics of BJ Jezbera meeting the sarcastic and dirty mind of Tyler Johnson. First off, a rendition of the King of The Hill intro and even a throwback that makes Big Jon remember his version of it... BJ Jezbera is represented by artist friendly San Diego independent record label Mannequin Vanity Records and sponsored by Steve Clayton picks (They make our exclusive Dusty Futon picks). And…he brought us SWAG featuring almost all of his song. He’s got three albums out! We chat a lot about music and the music industry, including Radio in San Diego…and someone notices his "Cassette Tattoo," with a special title. He drew it himself too! This guy is talented. So talented, in fact, that Tyler feels threatened a bit…his girl is in the room. Listen to find out more… We get to hear a live version of one of his songs that’s also a collaboration…sort of. We play three full songs that are fully produced. BJ Jezbera performs a lot at the Tipsy Crow, and you can f

Velour is a good old bluesy rock band where they guys actually call themselves “late bloomers.” I wouldn’t call them old, but they do get all of our 80’s references, and start right off with quoting the movie “Spinal Tap” before we even get to introductions. Two Steve’s and a James make up the current iteration of Velour. Stick around to the end of the episode to hear how the “second” Steve got the nickname “Steph” and “Astro!” Steve (not Steph) resurrected the name "Velour" here in San Diego from an earlier iteration in New Orleans…with these guys. We have TONS of fun with stories, how-to’s, insights, and general banter that keeps the energy up in this episode. The guys share their opinions about the local music scene, which many musicians refer to as “Pay-To-Play” and remarking on the “clever” ways venues come up with to avoid paying artists…including Drink Tickets and bar tabs. We recognize their hard work by showcasing three songs from their first EP as a band, “Right on Time for Being Late” 19:06 – “I Do

Lions Against Men is a concept similar to a supergroup of San Diego artists. Jeff, Noah, Aaron and “Steve” show up…however, nobody knows Steve so he gets kicked out immediately…to talk about their unique project. Their real drummer, Carlos, wasn’t able to make it, so in true Dusty Futon style; we talked some shit about him. The three members who made it are the three “lead singers” in the group. They all bring three unique styles with them, as well as having multi-instrumental backgrounds, so they all write their own songs that represent their separate musical backgrounds. This style led to Lions Against Men’s first EP. The 5-song digital album “Yesterday & Tomorrow” features six tracks by the band and an be found nearly anywhere (for now). The band already sold their music and will be producing a new sound in 2019. Check out their Facebook page for the updates. We play three of the tracks from this EP and enjoy chatting about the music scene. With stories from Cory, rants by Big Jon, and wisdom from Dirt

Three young men who call themselves the “Bitter Kiddos” fell onto the Dusty Futon for this episode. Started in 2012 by Ryan, the “Kiddos” aren’t what they used to be. Now featuring Nathan on Drums and Noah on Bass, the band has taken on a new sound. Their most recent EP, self titled "Bitter Kiddos", is only 10 minutes long...in 5 songs. After all, they are a punk band! They have a new EP being worked on now, and Ryan promises a slightly freshened sound. Dirty Disciple and Cory Wilkins dispense some sage advice on these youngsters, hopefully helping them develop their sound and poise as they grow. We all end up agreeing that all artists are narcissists, learn you “Can’t spell FUTON without F-U-N”, and excuse Dirty Disciple for being slightly tardy…but it’s all in fun and we get to listen to new songs!  Check these guys out on Instagram and Facebook @BitterKiddos 08:15 - "Gas Station Ghost" 27:35 - "Honestly" (Originally titles "Honsetly") 48:02 - "Mine" The Dusty Futon, LLC is focused on providing free tools a

Craig Shannon is a story teller...and a DAMN GOOD one! You will cry, you will laugh (listen to the end for some good laughs), and you will love the stories.  His wife Jackie, "The Wife", joins him to help us understand this quiet and reserved fellow.  Craig says "I tell stories...and they're mostly dark" but the tales share feelings and thoughts that are very relatable.  One of the more interesting things about Craig is that he typically stuns audiences into silence when a song ends, but to him silence is more than an applause...he has a unique way of connecting with his audience.  While he hasn't officially put anything out for purchase yet, he does play out as often as he can at local haunts like The Merrow, Brick by Brick, and LeStats.  Check out his ReverbNation page for details and his next shows!  We play three of his tracks and Spicy Kim does cry...after all, everyone needs a good cry.  It can be very cathartic... 9:40 - "Bombs In Belfast" 20:15 - "Far Back Down The Road" 38:30 - "Some Kind of Angel, S

Hocus jumps right in with Fat Lando and Harlan, who just wouldn't shut up, getting very blue right away. The jokes pile up quick as two-thirds of the sound behind Hocus share stories and talk music. James couldn't make it, but joined us in spirit…and YouTube LIVE…even though Tyler thought he saw him.  This punk band has been around as Hocus for 7 years, with Harlan and James being relatively new additions.  Speaking of Punk, Fat Lando is quick to tell us what he wanted to name the band…and, we don’t really want to put that in print…but Tyler doesn’t stop from sharing some graphic names he’s seen right along with him. We actually do end up talking music, including Harlan’s explanation of why the Bass is so different from the guitar. We play three songs from their 2017 album… 13:56 - "Smashed Our Car" 28:41 - "Pain Reliever" 44:47 - "Monster Monster" The Dusty Futon, LLC is focused on providing free tools and exposure to LOCAL and INDEPENDENT artists in the Southern California through networking. If you love wh

East County's own Full Moon Light highlights their vast music background with their multi-genre approach to their music. Riley, Antone, Mike, Matt, and Ryan each have influences from all over the map and their coalescing has brought out the best in them as musicians.  Want to hear for yourself?  The have LIVE PRACTICES at Julian Beer Company on Wednesdays, go catch them in the act.   It's worth noting that they basically don't have a lead singer, whoever writes typically sings lead... Their new album is due out soon and we get a taste of what's to come with the single "San Diego Sunshine" recently released.  We dive into their first album, self-titled "Full Moon Light", and talked about their diversity in music energizing their fan-base.  Stick around for the end of the episode, where it's basically non-stop laughs after we play the last song.  Oh, and here's the video to "94 Reasons" ...enjoy! 11:48 - "94 Reasons" 23:52 - "San Diego Sunshine" 37:44 - "The Price" The Dusty Futon, LLC is focused on providing f