Car Con Carne

The fairly obscure, cult favorite, 70s Chicago prog band, McLuhan may very well be the least likely band to have entered 2025 with a string of live dates … but here we are.   50+ years after the release of their debut album, “Anomaly,” it’s getting a second life with a repressing/rerelease and the band is doing a monthly residency at Montrose Saloon.   I sat down with band leader Neal Rosner (bass/vocals) before McLuhan’s most recent Montrose Saloon gig to talk about how the band made it this far into the 21st century, the offbeat songs on Anomaly, and what the Chicago scene was like long before most of Car Con Carne’s audience was born.   See McLuhan when they return to Montrose Saloon on February 13, March 6 and April 3.   ##   Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1/20/25 • 17:01

  Liar’s Club (1665 W. Fullerton) is set to host two fundraisers for victims of the L.A. fires: Friday, January 24, and Sunday, January 26.   The Friday event, featuring Local H, Viceroy and Tuff Sudz, is sold out. The Sunday event, featuring Handcuffs, Jon Langford and more TBA, will go on sale soon (keep an eye on Liar’s Club’s social media for updates).   I’m joined by Liar’s Club owner Herb Rosen to talk about the events. We met for ice cream, as kids do, so we could chat over gigantic sundaes from Margie’s on Montrose.   ##   Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1/17/25 • 17:35

Slice to Meet You returns to Piece Pizzeria (1927 North Avenue)! The fundraiser benefiting Paws Chicago, the Midwest’s largest no-kill shelter, kicks off with “Bill and Doug’s Excellent Adventure, a collaboration between Piece and iconic Chicago chef Hot Doug.   Piece owner Bill Jacobs and Hot Doug jump in the car to unveil their masterful collab: a white pizza topped with Hot Doug’s Hungarian sausage, thinly sliced Yukon potatoes, roasted garlic, mozzarella, and finished with horseradish cream sauce, grated aged Pecorino Romano, and scallions. For every “Bill and Doug’s” pizza sold, Paws will receive $70, thanks to Piece and generous matching donors.   Yeah, the pizza was outstanding, but I really enjoyed talking with Bill and Doug. I think you’ll enjoy the conversation - it’s an episode absolutely dripping with Chicago and food talk.   After you’ve scarfed down this month’s pizza, get ready for the next two collaborations in February (the Weiner’s Circle) and March (Rick Bayless).   Visit Piece on social media: @piecechicago Visit Paws online: pawschicago.com    ##   Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1/8/25 • 29:05

  This conversation was long overdue! I sat down with LiveWire Lounge owner Dave Hornyak to talk about LiveWire’s 14 years in business: The highs, the lows, the bands and the $2 PBRs.   Looking for a zero-bullshit, low-budget, place to unwind, listen to cool music, and be yourself? Visit my friends at LiveWire: 3394 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60641. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1/6/25 • 14:19

Malört existed long before you made your first “Malört face.” The story of its survival and eventual 21st century triumph is a twisty, fascinating business story laid out in Josh Noel’s new book, “Malört : The Redemption of a Revered and Reviled Spirit.”   It’s a business story. A love story. A marketing story. A Chicago story. I can’t recommend the book enough. In this episode, I talk with Josh Noel about the book and Malört history.  To appropriately set the scene, we met at one of Chicago’s great neighborhood bars, Live Wire Lounge (3394 N. Milwaukee Avenue). Thanks to Dave and bartender Mikey Classic for their hospitality, and for turning down “Girl’s Got Rhythm” by AC/DC on the house system for the interview recording.   If you’ve ever wondered why Malört tastes the way it does or how on earth it became Chicago’s go-to rite of initiation, I encourage you to read the book. That said, start by watching/listening to the interview!   ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1/3/25 • 27:09

Appearing at Metro, Saturday, January 4, 2025: Nicholas Tremulis & the Prodigals present Boneyard Rhapsody #65, featuring DJ Joe Shanahan & special guests. This promises to be a wall-rattling, roof-shaking, night of live music. To preview the event, I met Joe Shanahan (Metro founder) and Nicholas Tremulis in the Metro balcony for a conversation that includes: *When Nicholas first met Joe in the early 80s. *Their shared love of music (and sharing of music), spanning multiple decades. *The sheer enormousness of Nicholas’ band. It stands at 15 members, but surely he can find a few more before January 4th? *The event benefits Collaboraction: Nicholas explains their mission. *Metro’s ability to thrive and grow amidst constant change and disruption in Wrigleyville through the years. *Nicholas’ history of collaborating with, well, everyone. He’s an “elder statesman” at this point; is he still learning? *The importance of music discovery. *Joe’s approach to DJ-ing events. *The ever-growing list of live music venues in Chicago   Joe and Nicholas have known each other forever, which made this a very easy conversation to record. In many cases, I just sat back and let the old friends talk and riff. It was a great experience. The first great show of 2025 is on the calendar: See you at Metro! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12/29/24 • 28:37

Gilian from Hi Ho and Birdy from Sweetie jumped in my car at the end of 2024 to talk about their free show at Schubas (also including Reckoner), happening on 12/30/24 (New Year’s Eve Eve).   We’d originally planned to go food-less for this one, but to my surprise they arrived with freshly-baked cookies. They weren’t chocolate chip cookies, though, because Gillian’s not a fan (please don’t cancel her).   Things discussed in the episode:*Birdy’s love for alliteration. She’s a fabulously fun, fervent francophile. *Gillian joins the “5 timers club,” while Birdy is right on the edge with her fourth appearance. *Gillian’s reemergence after “this non-musical and extremely medical year.” *The state of Hi Ho: New music on the way. *Birdy Vee is known to warmly greet her community of fans when Sweetie takes the stage. She’s demure. *Sweetie will release a new album (on vinyl!) in 2025. *Birdy plays rugby. Don’t mess with her. *The HOOF Fest, and why Gillian is such a fan of it. *Gillian’s secret to building a band (Sweetie has a similar road map).   I don’t know if it was the holidays in the air, or just the combination of Gillian and Birdy, but holy shit, this episode was a lot of fun to record. Please support these fine bands (for ZERO POINT ZERO DOLLARS) on December 30!   ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12/23/24 • 32:46

John E. Streetz, Head of the Streetz Artz Alliance, has been curating craft shows at suburban craft breweries for years. Odds are, you’ve probably been to one (either planned or accidentally). They’re great events that pull in an eclectic mix of area artisans… and are a perfect complement to the neighborhood breweries that host them.   As the multi-location Krampus Market was underway in Blue Island, John jumped in my car outside Blue Island Beer Company (13357 Old Western Ave) to talk about how he started building these events, how they’re developed, and what the future might have in store.   Next up for the Streetz Artz Alliance:   Saturday 12/14/24 - Winter Craft Market (Church St., Itasca) Sunday 12/15/24 - Flipside Holiday Bazaar (Flipside, Tinley Park)   __   Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12/8/24 • 14:59

Chicago Americana artist Sara Jean Stevens just released a new video for the song “Thaw,” with a new EP, “Lovesick,” to follow on Valentine’s Day. To mark the occasion, she jumped on the podcast to do an absolutely stunning version of the song before our interview.   See Sara in one of her upcoming shows: 12/14 - Fitzgerald’s (Them Coulee Boys) 12/26 - Martyrs (with the Hoyle Brothers) 1/14/25 - SPACE   We met outside Cantina 52 in Crystal Lake (cantina52.com). Thanks to owner Jimmy for his kind hospitality and delicious food. Sara and I both ordered off the vegan menu (so many choices!), and loved what we had. If you’re watching the video, you can see what we ate. I’m ready to go back … meet you there? _ Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12/6/24 • 28:12

David Singer is one of Chicago’s most versatile artists: he’s a songwriter, performer, filmmaker, screenwriter and podcaster.  He’s also a founding Board Member and President of Intonation.   He’s back on Car Con Carne as his first solo album, “The Cost of Living,” is celebrating its 25th anniversary. To mark the occasion, David Singer and the Sweet Science headline the Hideout on Saturday, December 14 (Early show! Cheap tickets!).   Since he’s playing the Hideout soon, we decided to record at the Hideout (thanks, Katie and Tim). We holed up in the green room for our chat, which wrapped with David performing two songs: new single “Crashing,” and the title track from “The Cost of Living.”   David and I have known each other since well before “The Cost of Living,” so the conversation is always easy and fun with him. I think you’ll like this one!   __ Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12/2/24 • 44:33

Q101 (101.1FM / WKQX) is back on Chicago’s FM dial, after many confusing and MIA years for the brand. A fresh listen reveals a station in line with what many (or at least I) would argue is a “classic” Q101 look and feel. Let’s be candid: Terrestrial radio is facing serious headwinds, and its success hinges on bold ideas spanning multiple platforms. To talk about radio, and more specifically, Q101, I invited Q101 Program Director James Kurdziel to discuss topics like: What makes for a good air personality in the modern day (especially compared to, say, the 1990s)? How does new music find its way onto the air? What does the industry need to do to right the course? Is being a heritage station an advantage or weakness? What about being ‘live and local?’ Where do podcasts, YouTube, et al. fit in? I’ve worked for (and with) my share of radio blowhards through the decades. James isn’t one of them. He and his vision for the station are easy to root for. Disclaimer: Car Con Carne is a Q101 podcast. Even so, I asked the same questions I would have asked if that were not the case. Disclaimer #2: This episode (1011… get it?) is being published before Episode 1008. I decided I didn’t want to sit on it just to fall in sequence. I thought it was really interesting, and a good one to share before Thanksgiving.  __ Car Con Carne sponsored by Easy Automation: easy-automation.net Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Get a quote by visiting easy-automation.net, or give Dan a call at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/27/24 • 53:34

Ryan Argast of Marina City returns to Car Con Carne for Italian beef sandwiches at the iconic Johnnie’s Beef. We eat the beefs while wearing rubber exam gloves, but I swear it’s normal behavior. We spent some time chatting about the new Marina City EP, Reflections, another big step forward for the band. Start with “I’m So Broke” … you’ll thank me for it later, I swear.   We also talk about Argast’s run on “The Voice” earlier this year. He should have gone farther.   ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/26/24 • 23:00

50K Check celebrates the vinyl release of “50 Thousand Dollar Check” with an event at Shuga on December 13. To talk about the album (and band) are members Mason Payne (guitar), Kisira Hill (bass) and Kelly Torch (vocals).   As we chat, we enjoy fantastic food from Lilac Tiger (1742 W. Division St.). Lilac Tiger delivers an exceptional South Asian dining experience (and if you’re enjoying the food in the restaurant instead of the car, a world-class beverage experience).   Go support 50K Check at Shuga (1272 N. Milwaukee) on 12/13, and treat yourself to dinner at nearby-ish Lilac Tiger before or after the show!   ##   Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/22/24 • 38:27

Hey, hello, how was your day? “Whatever Happened to P.J. Soles,” originally released 20 years ago, has grown to become a fan-favorite Local H album, and remains the favorite of band leader Scott Lucas. In his words, “P.J. Soles” was “the work of a band that had simply ceased to give a fuck.” Scott returns to Car Con Carne to take a look back at P.J. Soles in its anniversary year, and we go track-by-track through it.  Specifically, each and every one of these songs: Where Are They Now?
 Everyone Alive California Songs Dick Jones Money on the Dresser P.J. Soles How’s the Weather Down There? Buffalo Trace Heaven on the Way Down Hey, Rita Heavy Metal Bakesale Mellowed That’s What They All Say Halcyon Days (Where Were You Then?) If you’re a Local H fan, or simply a fan of music deep dives, this is a can’t-miss episode. I’ve interviewed Scott many times over the past 30 years, and this is easily my favorite of the bunch. See Local H play “P.J. Soles” in their New Year’s Eve show at Bottom Lounge! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe? Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured. Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/18/24 • 34:13

Quiet Pterodactyl celebrates five years of non-profit work providing music and arts experience and education to the Chicago community. Founder and President Trey Elder joins us for this episode.   Also joining us is Angel Bat Dawid, a remarkable composer, clarinetist, singer & spiritual jazz soothsayer. Just a few years ago, the Chicago tribune named her the “Chicagoan of the Year in Jazz.” She’s the coolest.   Fueling the conversation this time around are unbelievably tasty sandwiches and sides from Jerry’s Sandwiches (jerryssandwiches.com), 4739 N Lincoln. I couldn’t get enough of the Harland S sandwich (Buttermilk-marinated fried chicken, American, pickle, mayo, Crystal hot sauce, lettuce, challah).   Join the celebration:  Quiet Pterodactyl 5 Year Anniversary Party with Silent Auction Fundraiser Sunday, Nov 24th  -  Color Club  4146 N Elston 7-11pm  -  21+ Only Angel Bat Dawid, plus JOBS, 4Dgirlz, DJ All the Way Kay ##   Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/13/24 • 31:28

  “I’m ready to go if you’re ready to go-whoa.”   You Died’s new album, “Machine Learning,” is out, and Fred Frey from the band returns to Car Con Carne to talk about it.   See You Died in their record release show at Reggie’s on Friday, November 15!   ##   Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/11/24 • 29:03

Damager (Dan Stewart, Garrison Krotz, Ryan Pollock, Adam White) just released their full debut album, “Forever or Else,” and jumped in the car to talk about it. We talk about the “red thread” that ties the songs together, the “Chicago-ness” of the band, and the album’s recurring character. See Damager at SubT on December 12! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/8/24 • 18:12

Chris Greene is one of Chicago’s A-list sax players, and his band, Chris Greene Quartet, just put out their first album in 7 years, “Conversance.”   It’s also the first-ever jazz release for long-running local indie label Pravda Records, and it’s a win for both parties.   I met Chris at Prairie Moon in Evanston - 1635 Chicago Ave, and owner Rob Strom joined us for conversation over some of the best catfish nuggets and tenders I’ve ever had. Visit Prairie Moon in person for a full menu that showcases the best of American cuisine. https://www.prairiemoonrestaurant.com/   Chris and I talked about “Conversance” in detail, including its accessibility to new jazz fans. We also talked about his bandmates and how the four of them make amazing music together. Rounding out the Chris Greene Quartet:   Damian Espinosa - piano and keyboards Marc Piane - bass Steve Corley -drums and percussion    Visit Chris online: chrisgreenejazz.com  instagram.com/chrisgreenejazz facebook.com/chrisgreenejazz   ##   Car Con Carne is presented by Easy Automation.   Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

11/4/24 • 35:37

Welcome to the third and final part of the Episode 1000 anniversary episode, recorded at live events held at four locations throughout the greater Chicagoland area. My original idea was to combine all the interviews and performances into one single release. As fate would have it… it’s just too much content for one single episode, so I decided to break it up and make it more digestible.   For this episode, recorded at Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge, Siren Records in McHenry, and Liar’s Club in Chicago, and the Q101 Lounge, you’ll hear (and see):   An interview with DEHD on the sweet Q101 radio mics. One of my favorite bands, AM TAXI, performing and chatting from Skeleton Key. Siren Records owner Bill Lindquist. Long time pop-punk favorites Showoff. And a fantastic peformance and chat with the synthy goth pop duo clubdrugs.     In between segments, you’ll also get to enjoy messages from former podcast guests, sharing their Episode 1000 greetings. This time around, that includes Patrick Brower of Challengers Comics + Conversation, Stubhy from Lucky Boys Confusion, Bullet to the Heart, Denis Buckley of 88 Fingers Louie, and You Died.   ##   CCC is sponsored by Easy Automation. Are you ready to turn your home into a smart home?   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting Easy-automation.net, or call Dan at 630.730.3728   ##     Thank you: Skeleton Key Brewery - Paul and Emily Slayton Liar’s Club - Herb Rosen. Also Gary and Scott! Siren Records - Bill and Jenny Lindquist The Black and Blue Hearts Mike Stricker The Ooozin’ Ahhhs AM Taxi Ike Reilly Steve Silver wht.rbbt.obj Showoff Josh Caterer Bellhead Kevin Kellam clubdrugs The Effigies DEHD Zach Spangler Derek Gochenauer (thanks for the video post-production!) Henry Scherer Matt Winkelman Asim Ali James Kurdziel Dan Pursel   Most importantly: Thank you for listening to, watching and supporting Car Con Carne. I don’t take any of it for granted.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/30/24 • 46:18

Welcome to the second part of the three-volume Episode 1000 anniversary episode, recorded at live events held at four locations throughout the greater Chicagoland area. My original idea was to combine all the interviews and performances into one single release. As fate would have it… it’s just too much content for one single episode, so I decided to break it up and make it more digestible.   For this episode, recorded at Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge, Siren Records in McHenry, and Liar’s Club in Chicago, you’ll hear (and see):   Theme song creator Josh Caterer from Liar’s Club. An interview with returning favorites wht.rbbt.obj from Siren Records. Comedian Mike Stricker with a comedy set from Skeleton Key. Herb Rosen, owner of Liar’s Club. A blistering performance and fun interview with Bellhead from Liar’s Club. And a rock and roll story from author Steve Silver.     In between segments, you’ll also get to enjoy messages from former podcast guests, sharing their Episode 1000 greetings. This time around, that includes Dr. Daryl Wilson of the Bollweevils, Sincere Engineer, Todd Sucherman of Styx, Take the Reins and award-winning journalist Charlie Meyerson.   ##   CCC is sponsored by Easy Automation. Are you ready to turn your home into a smart home?   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting Easy-automation.net, or call Dan at 630.730.3728   ##     Thank you: Skeleton Key Brewery - Paul and Emily Slayton Liar’s Club - Herb Rosen. Also Gary and Scott! Siren Records - Bill and Jenny Lindquist The Black and Blue Hearts Mike Stricker The Ooozin’ Ahhhs AM Taxi Ike Reilly Steve Silver wht.rbbt.obj Showoff Josh Caterer Bellhead Kevin Kellam clubdrugs The Effigies DEHD Zach Spangler Henry Scherer Matt Winkelman Asim Ali James Kurdziel Dan Pursel   Most importantly: Thank you for listening to, watching and supporting Car Con Carne. I don’t take any of it for granted.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/29/24 • 56:50

Welcome to the first of a three volume Episode 1000 anniversary episode recorded at live events held at four locations throughout the greater Chicagoland area. The next two volumes will be released over the next two days. My original idea was to combine all the interviews and performances into one single release. As fate would have it… it’s just too much content for one single episode, so I decided to break it up and make it more digestible.   For this episode, recorded at Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge, Siren Records in McHenry, and Liar’s Club in Chicago, you’ll hear (and see):   An interview and performance from super cool jazz combo the Black and Blue Hearts. An interview and performance from the incredible Ike Reilly. A comedy set from Kevin Kellam. An interview and performance from the very scary Halloween band the Ooozin’ Ahhhs, and an interview with Chicago punk legends the Effigies.   In between segments, you’ll also get to enjoy messages from former podcast guests, sharing their Episode 1000 greetings. This time around, that includes Garry Meier, Marina City, Kill Scenes, 13 Monsters and Smashed Plastic.   ##   CCC is sponsored by Easy Automation. Are you ready to turn your home into a smart home?   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting Easy-automation.net, or call Dan at 630.730.3728   ##     Thank you: Skeleton Key Brewery - Paul and Emily Slayton Liar’s Club - Herb Rosen. Also Gary and Scott! Siren Records - Bill and Jenny Lindquist The Black and Blue Hearts Mike Stricker The Ooozin’ Ahhhs AM Taxi Ike Reilly Steve Silver wht.rbbt.obj Showoff Josh Caterer Bellhead Kevin Kellam clubdrugs The Effigies DEHD Zach Spangler Henry Scherer Matt Winkelman Asim Ali James Kurdziel Dan Pursel   Most importantly: Thank you for listening to, watching and supporting Car Con Carne. I don’t take any of it for granted.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/28/24 • 54:02

This episode is brought to you by stubborn tenacity.   SubT and Beat Kitchen are two of Chicago’s favorite music rooms, and for good reason. Both are embedded in their respective neighborhoods (Wicker Park and Roscoe Village, respectively), have warmth and character, and provide consistently great entertainment.   Robert Gomez, owner of both venues, joins me outside Beat Kitchen to talk about the venues and Chicago's live music landscape. Timing is everything: this conversation takes place as SubT revs up its 30th anniversary celebration (#SubT30).   As we chat about the music scene, we snack on Beat Kitchen’s delicious steak sandwich and Thai pizza. Both are recommended, but pack some mints.   I really enjoyed talking with Robert; if you have an interest in Chicago’s music landscape, this is a must-listen.    ##   CCC is sponsored by Easy Automation. Are you ready to turn your home into a smart home?   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/18/24 • 33:35

Sideshow Villains’ Deviant Cabaret brings their mix of circus and cabaret acts ‘designed to disturb and delight’ back to Alhambra Palace (1240 W. Randolph) on Sunday, October 27th. This is the latest project from Dante Ingram, and she joins me to preview the show, which may involve everything from knife throwing and puppetry to trapeze and a jaw-dropping cyr wheel act. CCC is sponsored by Easy Automation. Are you ready to turn your home into a smart home? Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/9/24 • 12:26

In what’s become a favorite annual tradition, old friend/radio colleague Tim Virgin (94.7 WLS) and I meet up at Hellsgate (hellsgate.com) in Lockport for a trip through the haunt and a podcast conversation with creator/owner John LaFlamboy.   I say it a lot, and I mean it: HellsGate is the best of the haunts. I look forward to it every year, and it totally changes my mood for the better. It’s SO MUCH FUN.   We get into the changes made to this year’s experience, as well as the deep, thought-out, lore that drives John’s storytelling. This is a complete creative vision.   If you’re caught up in the spirit of the Halloween season, I can’t recommend HellsGate any more strongly. In fact, I’ll be back before Halloween and I hope to see you there.   Get tickets at hellsgate.com - Thursday-Sundays until the 22nd, then Wednesday through Sunday starting on the 23rd.   Also: check out daysofthelivingdead.com for behind-the-scenes footage from HellsGate!   ##   CCC is sponsored by Easy Automation. Are you ready to turn your home into a smart home?   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/5/24 • 39:08

T1 Fest is back this year, with three nights worth of killer shows at Reggie’s (2105 S. State Street), from 10/10-10/12. T1 Fest’s mission is to fight Type 1 diabetes, otherwise known as juvenile diabetes. Their mission: “To make a difference using the power of music and community to bring people together to create awareness for Type 1 Diabetes.” T1 Fest organizer Jimmy Costanzo and returning favorite Dr. Daryl Wilson (the Bollweevils, playing T1 Fest on 10/11) join me at Miskatonic, where we enjoy cold beverages while talking about the event. Also joining the party is Mik Dempsey, brewer at Miskatonic. He turned me on to the Chillin of the Corn lager, and I can’t wait to have another pint. More info: http://www.t1fest.com ## Car Con Carne is presented by Easy Automation. Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/3/24 • 29:03

Kingdom Come is a four-issue DC Comics graphic novel miniseries that came out in 1996. Mark Waid wrote it, Alex Ross envisioned it and painted it, and this epic story continues to ripple through not just the comics industry but the mainstream.   It’s a study in heroism, morality, and generational change. And despite the large cast of characters, this really is a Superman story at its core - where truth, justice and the American way come in direct conflict with a brutal new world.   You hear the world “legendary” overused to the point of being toothless, but this is truly a legendary comic series.   “The Legend of Kingdom Come” is a new documentary about how Alex Ross’ artistic vision reshaped comic art and redefined superheroes across generations.   It’s being crowdfunded on Kickstarter through late October, and Executive Producer Sal Abbinanti joined me at Gene & Jude's to talk about it.   We get into the role Kingdom Come played in the era it was released, Alex Ross’s artistic method of using costumed models for photo reference (including my guest Sal), the working relationship between Ross and writer Mark Waid, the lasting influence of Kingdom Come on pop culture (including James Gunn’s forthcoming Superman movie), and the overall making of the documentary.   Sal’s a favorite guest and person of mine, and he’s put together a story about comic books for everyone, including people who don’t read comic books. Give the interview a listen - Sal’s story about Alex putting Mark up in a Chicago hotel is cracking me up as I type this.   Kickstarter link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/atomika/the-legend-of-kingdom-come-alex-ross-documentary   ##   Safety and security are things you and I want, need and expect. What if you could always come home to a well-lighted house knowing that you and everyone inside were safe?   Or know that the package you were waiting on was delivered and secured.   Embrace the future of smart living. Empower your home with intuitive control. Call Dan at Easy Automation for a free, no-hassle quote. 630-730-3728. Or visit easy-automation.net.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10/1/24 • 34:18

McHenry Outdoor Theater - Golden Age Cinemas (1510 N Chapel Hill Rd, McHenry, IL 60051) will host a Halloween Triple Feature, including independent cult favorites “High on the Hog” and “Halloweed” and the sometimes overlooked/always awesome “Halloween 3.”   I recorded this one inside the concession stand at the McHenry Outdoor Theater, and was joined by drive-in owner Scott Dehn, as well as “High on The Hog” creator/writer/owner Kevin Lockhart and editor Ben Lewandowski.    In addition to talking about the Halloween Triple Feature (see you there!), we also talk about the McHenry Outdoor Theater’s incredible history, importance and current status in a distressingly small group of drive-ins nationwide.   I literally could have hung out with these guys at that place all day long. And yet, at some point I had to go home and edit this.   Drive-in season lasts until December, and there’s a lot of cool stuff planned after Halloween. Let’s support our independent venues and creators!   ##   A smart home connects virtually all of the technology in your home.  With an Easy Automation-installed smart home system, you and your family can control nearly every device and system in the house in ways that are easy and fun to use.   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting Easy-automation.net, or call Dan at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

9/29/24 • 23:57

Returning favorite Stephanie Sack is back to preview the 25th edition of the Chicago Horror Film Festival, happening this weekend. Stephanie’s an associate producer of this year’s event, which focuses on women in horror and the “Final Girl” trope.   The fest’s happening at the Logan Theatre from September 27th through the 29th. Plan on three days of programming, playing on three screens, covering 200 short horror/thriller and sci-fi films.   chicagohorrorfilmfest.com   September 27-29, 2024 The Logan Theatre 2646 N. Milwaukee Ave Chicago, IL 60647   ##   Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation.   A smart home connects virtually all of the technology in your home.  With an Easy Automation-installed smart home system, you and your family can control nearly every device and system in the house in ways that are easy and fun to use.   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting Easy-automation.net, or call Dan at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

9/24/24 • 17:05

Chicago composer Maxx McGathey, best known for his work with Gramps the Vamp, releases his first solo album, “Imaginary Eyes,” on September 27.   We met at Roma’s (4237 N. Cicer) for Italian beef (that’s what we do here in Chicago) and talked about the mo`ie score, cool instrumental, vibes of the new album. It’s instrumental music for people who think they don’t like instrumental music.   ##   Join Car Con Carne for a live event!   Thursday, 9/26/24 Skeleton Key in Woodridge CAR CON CARNE EPISODE 1000 Featuring AM Taxi, Ooozin’ Ahhhs, the Black and Blue Hearts, Mike Stricker DJ sets 7pm FREE TO ATTEND   ##   A smart home connects virtually all of the technology in your home.  With an Easy Automation-installed smart home system, you and your family can control nearly every device and system in the house in ways that are easy and fun to use.   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting Easy-automation.net, or call Dan at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

9/19/24 • 24:19

Red Scare Industries celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. The new compilation, “20 Years of Dreaming and Scheming,” includes contributions from Laura Jane Grace, Sludgeworth, the Brokedowns, the Falcon, Won’t Stay Dead and the Bollweevils.   I’m out of the car for this one … Toby Jeg and Brendan Kelly of Red Scare joined me at the Q101 studios in downtown Chicago for this recording. I mean, if I’m going to have a partnership with Q101, I may as well take advantage and use their facilities.    We talk about the turbulent music business, and how Red Scare has managed to endure well into the 21st century. We get into discussing some of the tracks on “20 Years of Dreaming and Scheming,” and dive into topics like Fernet, Jon Bon Jovi and Toby’s favorite stage banterist.   I wrap the conversation by sharing an audio clip of an interview I did with Brendan in … 2002! Our voices both sound pitched up, but … that’s just how we sounded 22 years ago.   Every now and then, I do an interview that feels less like an interview and more like a casual conversation that just happens to have been captured on microphone. This is one of them.   ##   DON’T FORGET:    Thursday, 9/26/24 Skeleton Key in Woodridge CAR CON CARNE EPISODE 1000 Featuring AM Taxi, Ooozin’ Ahhhs, the Black and Blue Hearts, Mike Stricker DJ sets 7pm FREE TO ATTEND ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation.   A smart home connects virtually all of the technology in your home.  With an Easy Automation-installed smart home system, you and your family can control nearly every device and system in the house in ways that are easy and fun to use.   Transform your living space with cutting-edge home automation. Experience seamless control over audio/video, lighting, climate, security, and more. Embrace the future of smart living – your home, your rules.   Get a quote by visiting Easy-automation.net, or call Dan at 630.730.3728See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

9/18/24 • 51:04