Join us for an engaging conversation with Tom Hartman, the renowned booker of The Cubby Bear Chicago, as he dives into his experiences and insights within the music industry. In this episode, we explore the complexities of managing a band, the nuances of booking live music events, and the elements that contribute to a band's success. Tom shares his journey into the world of music, the challenges he faces on both the business and creative sides, and his thoughts on the impact of recent trends, such as the effects of COVID-19 and the changing dynamics of substance use on attendance. We also highlight featured events like the Black Diamond Sessions Live at Teddy O'Brien's, the 25-Year Birthday Party of the Mosquitoes Jam Band, and the Heart of Glass show at Klehm Rockford. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the ever-evolving music scene and learn what it takes to thrive in this competitive field.

Join Pete Jansons and Mike Orfanos for an engaging episode of the HOG POD, featuring a special guest appearance by Brad Altman. Brad dives into his experiences, insights, and the unique journey that has shaped his career. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, this conversation is packed with fascinating stories and valuable takeaways. 🗣️ Key Topics Covered: Brad's early career and inspirations Challenges and triumphs in the industry Behind-the-scenes anecdotes Advice for aspiring professionals Upcoming projects and future plans Don't miss out on this captivating discussion! Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes and updates.

🎸 Dive into the latest episode of HOG POD where we welcome the talented drummer Chris Rhodes! 🌟 Join Pete Jansons, Mike Orfanos, and Chris Rhodes as they discuss their recent shows, the challenges of performing in extreme weather, and share entertaining stories from the road. Chris Rhodes, known for his versatility and experience, brings unique insights into the music scene, his journey as a drummer, and the camaraderie among musicians. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation filled with laughs, music talk, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes! 📅 Episode Highlights: Recap of recent shows and dealing with heat and rain The supportive community of musicians Chris Rhodes' journey and his experiences with various bands The future of music and the role of technology For more content and updates, don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and upcoming show announcements. Key Moments: 0:000:32 Shows Recap Playing in the Heat and Rain 1:55 Mosquitos at Broken Oar 3:42 Heart of Glass at https://klehm.org/programs-events/ 4:49 Shout out to Eli and Glenn doing the sound 7:40 Chris Rhodes arrives 9:03 Shout out to Jeff Fite 11:00 How do you play in the heat? 11:45 What to do playing in the rain? When do you stop playing? 17:08 How do drummers get help? 19:50 Best local drummer shoutouts, brotherhood, and their bands https://www.facebook.com/mikesdrums https://mikesdrumshop.net/ 22:20 Chris has a 250-song inventory. What are his faves? 23:50 Chris Rock the Runway Show at Chicago Exec. Doug Schoenbeck shoutout 25:00 Casino gigs: Good to play? 27:45 Should there just be a house drum set? 28:24 Dischord Jam https://www.facebook.com/p/Dischord-Industry-Open-Jam-100090641742292/ 30:10 Sundance Saloon Bobby Carlsen Clip https://youtu.be/PFQoPyQ06fE?si=R461eLD5YCb9Lmp8 31:00 How do you get in shape for outdoor gigs? Plus, the humidity—how do you deal with it? 34:15 How did Chris Rhodes get into drums? 36:49 School of Rock 38:00 Tough to teach kids lessons 40:40 Going on stage versus creating music on a laptop 42:10 Michael Tafoya Clip https://youtu.be/_P69Zuxcs10?si=6m7Xlgl7WLXWxqL2 43:00 How to get more kids into music creation with AI 44:40 Where is Chris Rhodes playing next? https://www.facebook.com/events/754834103508555 https://www.facebook.com/events/932407922011412 Coterie 47:50 How to hire Chris Rhodes for a gig? Reach out to his Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.rhodes.142 48:33 Mike Orfanos' gigs coming up: https://www.facebook.com/events/317758838075485 Event by The Black Diamond Sessions at Wooden Nickel, Highwood, IL, United States, Illinois 60040 Freshiefest: https://www.facebook.com/events/1488001968789304 49:34 Heart of Glass playing Mickey Finn's in Libertyville 7-19-24 9pm https://www.facebook.com/events/966802095192582/ #HOGPOD #ChrisRhodes #PeteJansons #MikeOrfanos #Drumming #MusicPodcast #LiveMusic #BlondieTribute #HeartOfGlass #RockMusic #MusicCommunity #BandLife #ChicagoLocalMusicScene

In this episode of the HOG POD, we continue our captivating conversation with Michael Tafoya and his bandmates Leslie and Craig. The episode kicks off with a recap of Heart of Glass' electrifying show at Madcats in Palatine on June 29, 2024, with a special shoutout to Billy Nixon. We then dive into a Rolling Stones review from their Soldier Field performance. Upcoming shows for the Heart of Glass Blondie Tribute Band are highlighted, including their Palatine 4th of July performance and the Woodsong Summer Concert on July 14, 2024. Michael Tafoya, Leslie, and Craig join the conversation, recounting the origins of the Tafoya band and their diverse musical backgrounds. From Craig's powerful drumkit to Leslie's rockabilly roots with Tankerays, the band’s dynamic history unfolds. The discussion covers everything from bus etiquette on the road to urban versus rural crowds, and even a memorable Danzig story. The band shares insights on the current state of the music industry, noting a decline in interest and aggression in today's music and art. We also explore the role of CDs as modern business cards for bands, and the challenges musicians face while trying to perfect their own music without external influences. Don't miss the shoutout to Craig's wife's drum skin and graphics business, and find out how to connect with Michael A. Tafoya through Facebook and the Tafoya band website. Tune in for an engaging episode filled with music history, industry insights, and personal anecdotes from one of Illinois’ iconic rock figures and his talented bandmates. Key Moments: 0:000:15 Madcats in Palatine Show 6-29-24 Recap shout out to Billy Nixon 0:52 Rolling Stones review Soldier Field 3:57 Heart of Glass Blondie Tribute Band Upcoming Shows Palatine 4th of July 3pm https://palatinejaycees.org/hometown-fest/htf-entertainment/ and July 14, 2024 Woodsong Summer Concert – Heart of Glass: A Tribute to Blondie https://klehm.org/woodsong-summer-concert-heart-of-glass-a-tribute-to-blondie/ 5:15 Michael Tafoya Joins 6:02 Leslie Bass Player Tafoya Joins 7:01 Craig the drummer arrives 7:40 Tafoya Band starts 8:33 Craig's drumkit is like a cannon 9:27 What is MU Brauer House https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMXwa9OAcCY 13:20 Mick Jagger Stamina and Routine 14:00 Charlie Watts story 15:50 How did Tafoya start 16:40 Soul Patch Monkey Craig's old band 18:48 Tankeray's Leslie's last band Rockabilly 22:30 Upcoming Shows for Tafoya Shakers Ottawa July 7 St. Charles Alibi 8-11 pm Stage Left DeKalb 24:30 Who does the bookings for Tafoya 27:14 Transportation to shows Craig's Bus 28:58 Bus etiquette only Number 1 Never Number 2 30:49 Who helps Craig at end of night with the drums 32:40 Danzig story 35:30 Urban versus Rural Crowds 38:20 Rick Beato discussion Interest in music and art is down 45:00 Kids like soft music like 70's 45:50 Video Games are down too 48:35 Less people actually creating 50:50 Kids these days aren't angry or aggressive 55:50 People don't buy albums or CDs anymore 56:20 CDs are business cards for the band 1:01:01 Bands don't listen to other music as they are trying to perfect their own music 1:04:23 What happened to Captain Beyond? 1:07:05 Who went to Genesis concerts back in the day 1:07:50 Hawkwind 1:08:44 Shout out to Craig's wife Drum Skin and Graphics business https://www.drumheadgraphics.com/ 1:10:56 Michael A. Tafoya contact https://www.facebook.com/michael.a.tafoya https://www.tafoyaband.com/ #HOGPod #Podcast #MusicDiscussion #MichaelTafoya #HeartOfGlass #BlondieTribute #RollingStones #LiveMusic #MusicPodcast #RockBand #BandLife #MusicStories #ConcertRecap #UpcomingShows #MusicIndustry #ClassicRock #DrumKit #Rockabilly #GenesisConcerts #Hawkwind #MusicArt #RickBeato #BandEtiquette #laurajansons #mikeorfanos #petejansons #heartofglass

🌟 Dive into the rhythmic world of Larry Malitz, bass extraordinaire, in this jam-packed episode of HOG Pod! 🎶 Join us as we explore Larry's journey into music, his experiences with notable figures, and his upcoming shows. 🕒 Timestamps: 1:00 Introduction to Larry Malitz 9:17 How Larry Started Playing Bass 21:16 Mike Orfanos and Larry’s First Meeting 28:06 Remembering the Concert for Bangladesh 29:21 Discussing the Best Music Documentaries - Is Spinal Tap the Greatest? 38:41 Larry’s Worst Sound Guy Stories 42:30 Upcoming Shows and Future Plans 44:00 Spotlight on All My Brothers Band: https://allmybrothersband.com/ 47:36 Discover FRIKO: https://whoisfriko.com/ 52:04 Two Costa Ricans’ Next Gig at O'Hare's Pub on July 13 🎤 Plus, don't miss special guest appearances and Larry’s insights into the crucial role of the rhythm section in music. 💥 👍 Like, comment, and share if you enjoy deep dives into the lives of musicians. Subscribe for more HOG Pod episodes filled with insider music stories! 📅 Follow Larry Malitz's journey and catch him live at his upcoming performances! #LarryMalitz #BassGuitar #MusicPodcast #HOGPod #LiveMusic #MusicDocumentary #SpinalTap #TwoCostaRicans #MusicLife #ChicagoMusicScene 🎧 Thank you for tuning in! Stay tuned for more episodes where we bring the legends behind the music to you. 🎤✨

Join us for an exclusive interview with Jeff Fite, the drummer from Heart of Glass Blondie Tribute Band and Mosquitos Jam Band. 🥁 Dive into the behind-the-scenes stories, performance insights, and the dynamics of playing in multiple bands. Jeff shares his experiences, challenges, and advice for aspiring musicians. 🎶 Discover the differences between opening acts and main performances, the importance of sound quality, and the unique chemistry required in a band. Jeff also discusses his career highlights, the significance of stage management, and the intricacies of being a veteran musician playing with rookies. 🎸 Don't miss Jeff's thoughts on his recent shows at Rookies Rochaus, the challenges of quick band changeovers, and the impact of poor sound management. Learn about his favorite drummers, the art of drumming, and why he chose drums as his instrument. 🥁 Upcoming Performances: Heart of Glass Playing Broken Oar 5/31/24: facebook.com/events/2590961247744191/ Mosquitos Playing Sundance Saloon 5/25/24: facebook.com/events/803169318391170/?ref=newsfeed Black Diamond Sessions Playing Wooden Nickel 5/16: facebook.com/events/402391209363522/ Black Diamond Sessions Playing Broken Oar 5/18: facebook.com/events/1074755220290152/ Meet Jeff Fite: Learn more about Jeff Fite on our band’s website at heartofglass.band/meet-the-band/. Key Moments: 0:00 Heart of Glass Playing Broken Oar 5/31/24 https://www.facebook.com/events/2590961247744191/ Mosquitos playing Sundance Saloon 5/25/24https://www.facebook.com/events/803169318391170/?ref=newsfeed Black Diamond Sessions Playing Wooden Nickel 5/16 https://www.facebook.com/events/402391209363522/ and Broken Oar 5/18 https://www.facebook.com/events/1074755220290152/ Jeff Fite https://www.heartofglass.band/meet-the-band/ 0:30 Show Start 1:06 Differences being opening act vs 2nd act of 3 3:20 It matters if you cannot hear your sound 3:39 Bob Cozza Rookies Rochaus 4:53 Why do 3 bands? 6:43 What's a line check? 7:11 Jeff Fite Drummer heart of Glass and Mosquitos Jam Band Joins the show 7:35 Two Costa ricans Join the show 8:11 Two Costa Ricans Kick Off song Badfinger 10:49 drummer Jeff Fite Introduction 12:46 Issue today trying to teach kids music 18:08 Kids Today listening to softer music liek ealry 70's kids did? 19:39 What's it like for a vet having to play with a rookie? 22:39 different playing with experienced band and rookie band or original vs tribute? 23:04 Chemistry is a big part 25:03 Would Jeff Fite like to be the first or 2nd band on a 3 band night? Stage Management is key 25:43 Jeff Fites thoughts on last show at Rookies Rochaus 26:46 Its a respect thing 28:35 Jeff Fite Ripped Out His ear Peace because sound was so bad 29:32 15 Minute Changeovers is not enough time between bands 30:13 In Jeff Fite's decades long career that was one of the worst sound jobs ever 33:18 How good should a set be to publish online? 35:33 Difference between Cover Bands and tribute Bands? 37:38 How does a band pick songs to play ie the politics 40:20 Advice for a band looking for a drummer 41:59 How do you determine the band leader 42:51 Who goes to get payment? 43:36 Putting a band together is rough 46:08 What happens at the end of a gig for a drummer 47:45 Jeff Fite's advice to a rookie and their first gig 49:35 Why did Jeff Pick Drums to play? Micky Dolenz? 50:12 Bill Bruford yes Drummer 51:52 Two styles of drumming 53:48 Most Influential Drummers to Jeff Fite 55:10 Bonzo john bonham versuse Neil Peart 56:12 How Do drummers and percussionists get along on stage? 1:04:24 Two costa Ricans Close out the show with "Don't Bring Me Down" Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content from the Heart of Glass Blondie Tribute Band! 👍 Follow Us: Facebook: facebook.com/HeartofGlassBlondieTribute Instagram: instagram.com/heartofglassband/ Hashtags: #HeartofGlass #BlondieTribute #LiveMusic #Atomic #BlondieCover #Rochaus #WestDundee #ClassicRock #MusicLovers #ConcertHighlights #shorts #blondieshorts #blondiecover #jenniferqueen #lorriekountz #sophiehafer #jefffite #laurajansons #petejansons #bobcozza #liveconcert #rockmusic #tributeband #WestDundeeMusic #IllinoisLiveMusic 🎸🎤🎶

🔥 Get ready for a sizzling episode of the HOG POD! 🎤 Join us as we kick off with the electrifying sounds of the Heart of Glass Blondie Tribute Band and a vibrant warm-up by Two Costa Ricans. From heart-pounding performances to insider tips on playing in the heat, we've got it all covered! 💃 Don't miss out on exclusive stories from the stage, including encounters with Mick Fleetwood and behind-the-scenes gear talk. Plus, catch up on upcoming shows and exciting adventures on the road. 🛣️ Tune in now for a dose of music magic and entertainment galore! 🌟 #HOGPOD #HeartOfGlass #MusicTalks 🎙️ Key Moments: 0:00 Pre Show 1:53 Two Costa Ricans Warm up the crowd with Traveling Wanbury's 3:40 Show Starts with Members of Heart of Glass Blondie Tribute Band Lorrie Kountz Jennifer Queen Laura Jansons 5:03 Two Costa Ricans play July 13 at https://oharespub.com/ in Bartlett Illinois 5:31 Clip of Heart2Heartbreaker from Vixen Show Great Peeps! 6:12 Thank You  Dave Treadwell Sound Tech Extraordinaire at The Vixen Theater in McHenry Illinois 7:19 Thank You To https://www.bigbangfestivals.com/ and Jeff Kleinschmidt 9:05 Mike Orfanos Shows 12:51 Broken Oar https://www.brokenoar.com/events new stage! 13:15 16 candles playing broken oar May 4th 14:05 Rochaus show May 11th Heart of Glass Blondie Tribute band with The Chain and Millennium 15:32 disco ball Story and Jen's Athleticism 20:20 Tips to play in the heat 24:02 shout Out To Donna Lee Fan Hair 25:25 Jen Queen and Thalium 28:20 How do 3 singers figure out to harmonize 29:50 Post Gig Advice dealing with equipment 31:50 Two Costa Ricans Van and traveling equipment 34:20 Mick Fleetwood Stories 36:20 Laura Mick Fleetwood photo 36:30 Two Costa Ricans drum set 38:00 Mike Orfanos Shows 39:10 Mick Fleetwood and Laura pic 40:00 Todd Costa Rica playing with Asteroids at https://www.facebook.com/Spoondoggers/ 41:08 Goal Mission of the podcast bring on club owners managers bookers bands to give exposure 41:58 Two Costa Ricans Close out Song #HOGPOD #HeartOfGlass #BlondieTribute #CostaRicaAdventures #MusicPodcast #LiveMusic #BandLife #MusicTalks #RockNRoll #PodcastLife #BehindTheScenes #MusicFans #Entertainment #Showbiz #GigLife #MusicMagic #StageStories #MickFleetwood #CostaRicanVibes #PodcastGoals #ClubScene #MusicIndustry #ArtistLife #RockO