On this week's episode, I interview Dave Trumfio, the songwriter and vocalist for synth-pop duo the Pulsars.

The Chicago-based Pulsars, which also featured Trumfio's brother and multi-instrumentalist Harry Trumfio, were one of the first bands to bring back an 80s retro sound on their 1997 self-titled debut album, years before the post-punk revival of the early 2000s, when bands like The Killers, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Interpol became indie music darlings.

Their debut album was chock full of New Wave gems like 'My Pet Robot', 'Silicon Teens' and 'Technology'. And while they received some initial success and high profile tours with artists like Oasis and Beck, the dissolution of their record company heralded the end of the band, and their album went out of print for nearly thirty years.

The Pulsars are rereleasing a remastered edition of this album on vinyl, CD and digital on September 13 via Tiny Global Productions. This is a treat for hardcore fans and should also appeal to electronic music fans unfamiliar with their work.

On today’s episode I speak to Trumfio about his memories of the band’s initial success and the Chicago alternative scene of the 1990’s, his work as a member of The Mekons and as an in-demand producer and studio musician for artists like The Jesus and Mary Chain, Liz Phair and Moving Units, why the band are finally reissuing their debut album, their upcoming tour, future releases, and much more.

And stick around afterwards, when I’ll be playing 'Technology', one of my favorite songs off their underrated 1997 gem of an album.

The Sisters of Mercy are one of the most iconic Goth groups of all time. Despite not releasing an album since 1990's 'Vision Thing,' they retain a devoted fanbase, as evidenced by the rapturous acclaim of their 2023 North American tour, which saw them play hits like 'This Corrosion' along with deep cuts, and new material. And now the band are preparing to return to the U.S. and Canada with a Fall 2024 tour.

On this week's episode I talk to band guitarist Ben Christo to discuss what fans can expect on the setlist, why the band are in no hurry to release a new album, the band's songwriting process (they continue to write songs, but only perform them live), their enduring appeal, and more.

So check out the episode, and visit the bands website https://www.the-sisters-of-mercy.com/ for tour dates and more.

Join us for a special episode as we delve into the legacy of musical icon Michael Hutchence, whose career with INXS skyrocketed in the 80s. Beloved for his mystique and distinctive vocals, Hutchence left a lasting impact on millions despite his untimely passing in 1997. Now, producer Danny Saber (U2, Madonna, David Bowie) brings Hutchence's unfinished demos to life with the release of 'One Way' b/w 'Save My Life,' a 10-inch picture disk out August 9 via Boss Sonics and Deko Entertainment. Saber meticulously reconstructed these tracks from loose demos the two recorded together just prior to his death. In this episode, I interview Saber to discuss the journey of 'One Way,' the nearly three-decade wait for its release, Hutchence's enduring appeal, future releases of more unearthed Hutchence material, and Saber's favorite memories of working with the legendary singer. And stick around afterwards when I'll be playing the new single.