DiscoverFlorida Sound Archive Podcast
Florida Sound Archive Podcast

Florida Sound Archive Podcast

Author: Jeff Kaiser

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Explore the vibrant music scene of Florida, past and present, through in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians, and industry insiders who shaped it. From the pioneers of Florida's punk and rock scenes to the contemporary sounds of today, our podcast delves into the stories, experiences, and memories that have made the state a hub for musical innovation and creativity. Tune in for insightful interviews, fascinating anecdotes, and a journey through the Sunshine State's rich musical heritage.


119 Episodes
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The Story of Jeff Howe: Orlando Roots, Reversal of Man, Touring, and MoreIn this episode, Jeff Howe traces his musical roots from growing up in Orlando and discovering punk, hardcore, and metal through skateboarding culture and DIY record stores, to becoming a deeply embedded figure in the underground scene. He discusses his earliest band, Adversary, before joining Reversal of Man at fifteen, which led to extensive touring across Florida, the U.S., and Europe. Howe reflects on the DIY ethos of the era, from basements and skate parks to squats and touring life.He also talks about other projects including Shroud of Turin, Combat Wounded Veteran, Horsewhip, Heaven’s Gate, and more, and how each reflects different stages of his musical evolution.
Romulo Del Castillo on Miami Music Culture, Soul Oddity/Phoenecia, Schematic, Touring, and MoreIn this episode, we’re joined by Romulo Del Castillo for a deep dive into his journey through South Florida’s experimental electronic music scene. We trace his path from early encounters with sound and club culture to decades of creating, touring, and building community.Romulo reflects on growing up in Miami during the 1980s and 1990s, and how those experiences shaped his approach to experimental electronic music. He discusses early projects like Super Soul, Soul Oddity, and Phoenecia, along with the rise of rave culture in South Florida.He also talks about touring internationally, working with Astralwerks and Warp, and co-founding Schematic Records to support independent artists.Today, he remains active through DJing, live performances, and mentoring, sharing perspectives on longevity, community, and adapting to new technology.
Recut 2020 Episode: The Story of Fritz Dorigo – Crease, Excessive, South Florida Rock Scene and MoreThis is a recut and re-released episode featuring Fritz Dorigo, originally recorded in 2020 during the early years of the podcast. The audio has been refined for improved clarity. This episode captures an in-depth conversation from a formative period of both the show and the South Florida music community it documents.Fritz Dorigo shares his story of growing up in South Florida, discovering music at a young age, and immersing himself in the region’s rock, punk, and metal scenes. He reflects on learning multiple instruments, committing to guitar, and the years of practice that shaped his playing. The discussion traces the formation and evolution of Excessive into Crease, the close bonds between longtime band members, and the DIY path of rehearsals, local shows, radio exposure, and building an audience.Fritz also talks about recording experiences, record label challenges, and the unpredictable rise and fall of momentum in the music industry. The conversation expands to the wider South Florida scene, recalling clubs, radio stations, influential bands, and moments that defined a unique era. Fritz also discusses later projects including Dirty DNA and other collaborations, as well as his continued role as a teacher, musician, and manager. This re-release offers both longtime listeners and new audiences a chance to revisit an important chapter in South Florida music history and a key early episode of the podcast.
The Story of Orlando's The Hate BombsIn this episode we’re joined by Scott Sugiuchi, Ken Chiodini, and Dave Ewing to discuss the history of the Orlando garage rock band The Hate Bombs. The conversation covers their formation in the late 1980s and early 1990s Orlando music scene, recent reunions including their 30th anniversary show in 2023, and the backgrounds and roles of each member, along with the contributions and legacy of original guitarist Mick Crowley (1968-2022).They discuss their early influences in 1960s rock, punk, and garage revival, as well as the importance of record stores, zines, and local venues in building the scene. The episode also covers early shows, touring, networking with other bands, and the release of their first recordings, including the single “Pekinpah Man.”Additional topics include live performances, recordings and artwork, radio airplay, festival appearances, and limited major-label interest. They also share memories of recording at Hitmakers Studio in Tampa with the late Bill Mason (1951-2025), along with reflections on lineup changes, later recordings, the band’s breakup, reunions, and their lasting recognition among garage rock audiences overseas. The guests close with thoughts on friendship, creativity, and shared experiences.
#129 Shottie

#129 Shottie

2026-03-0601:01:25

Shottie on Miami Hip-Hop and His JourneyIn this episode of Florida Sound Archive, we’re joined by Miami rapper Shottie for a deep dive into his journey through hip-hop, from his earliest beginnings to what’s next.Born in the Dominican Republic and later moving to New York City, Shottie shares how the passing of his father ultimately brought him to Miami, where he grew up in the Kendall area. He reflects on first discovering hip-hop through DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince and the classic track Parents Just Don't Understand, before diving deeper into the culture with artists like Redman, Wu-Tang Clan, and Naughty by Nature.We also explore his discovery of Miami hip-hop pioneers including Trick Daddy, JT Money, 2 Live Crew, Mother Superior, Mr. Mic Rippa, and DJ Craze, and how learning about their work gave him a broader perspective on Miami hip-hop and its place within the larger culture.Shottie walks us through starting to rap in high school under his original stage name Deadshot, performing early shows at the Cameo Theater (Miami Beach) and the Chili Pepper (Coconut Grove), and forming the group IDEE4, which made the leap to Los Angeles before ultimately returning to South Florida six months later.We get into his creative process, including his approach to recording, collaborating with producers and rappers locally and internationally, developing album artwork, and the sonic and cinematic influences that shape his projects. Shottie also reflects on performances in Orlando, New York City, Fort Wayne, and Toronto, and what lies ahead in terms of touring and new music.
From Strongarm to Further Seems Forever: Steve Kleisath on His Music Journey, Touring, and MoreIn this episode, we are joined by drummer Steve Kleisath as he shares his journey from playing drums at age 4 to his early Tampa, Florida band Friend or Foe / Pull, recording at Morrisound Studios, and attending shows at The Ritz, Brass Mug, and more.Steve talks about his time in Strongarm, Shai Hulud, and the formation of Further Seems Forever, including early recordings, tours, and eras. He also discusses other projects like En Masse, Useless Things, and The Darling Fire, as well as ventures outside music, including holding a Guinness World Record for gaming and co-hosting fantasy football podcasts.
Recut 2020 Episode: The Story of Russell Mofsky – Origins of Miami Punk Band Quit, Gold Dust Lounge, and MoreThis is a recut and re-released version of Episode 5, originally recorded in 2020 during the first year of the podcast at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The audio has been polished for improved clarity, though it has a lower bit rate due to the original recording application.Russell Mofsky shares his journey from growing up in Miami Beach, discovering music as a child, and diving into South Florida’s punk, skateboarding, and metal scenes, to forming the influential band Quit. He reflects on live shows, DIY culture, and the friendships that shaped his creative path.The conversation also explores his later jazz studies and the creation of Gold Dust Lounge, a project blending vintage mood music, cinematic soundscapes, and eclectic influences.This re-release gives both longtime fans and new listeners a chance to revisit an early chapter in South Florida music history and the beginnings of the podcast.
The Story of South Florida's Postface, Ex-Cretins with Rick Ambrose & Stephen "Wolfie" Johnson /////////////// In this episode, one of our most requested, we are joined by Rick Ambrose and Stephen “Wolfie” Johnson, founding members of South Florida bands Postface, Ex-Cretins, and later Tongues of the Heartworm. They discuss their earliest beginnings in Ford City, Pennsylvania, forming their first band Beyond Fear, before forming Postface and relocating to Deerfield Beach, Florida, in the summer of 1989.They share their journey from forming their first band in Ford City, Pennsylvania, to forming Postface and moving to Deerfield Beach, Florida, in 1989, where they became part of the South Florida alternative scene. Hear stories from early shows in Deerfield, Boca, and Miami, connections with bands like Freaks With Breaks, Load, Marilyn Manson, and Spooky Kids, and the formation of Ex-Cretins and Tongues of the Heartworm.They also recall working with Jeremy Staska of Studio 13 running sound at many shows (and later recording Ex-Cretins and Tongues of the Heartworm) and Frank “Rat Bastard” Falestra running sound at Churchill’s. Recordings at L7 Studios with Bob Wlos and their own Electric Lazy Land Studios are also discussed. While Postface didn’t tour extensively, they did play shows in Gainesville and Orlando.The conversation then moves to the origins of Ex-Cretins, changes in the alternative music scene, and performances at venues like Respectable’s, Surf Cafe, Chili Pepper, and the Poorhouse, along with tours to Atlanta, Athens, and Pittsburgh. Rick and Stephen explore the differences between Postface and Ex-Cretins, as well as reunions and their legacy.We explore the differences between Postface and Ex-Cretins, reunions, legacy, periods between bands and the formation of Tongues of the Heartworm, which included Fausto from Load on drums.
The Story of Josh Dobbs: Orlando Punk, RunnAmucks, Touring and More //////////// Josh Dobbs of Orlando’s RunnAmucks joins the show to talk about growing up in Casselberry, discovering punk after Nirvana, and coming up through venues like Fern Park Station, Sapphire Supper Club, Firestone, and Suburbia, along with record stores like Wax Tree and DIY Records. He reflects on local bands such as Blackhead, Shyster, and Robots Make Mistakes, touring Florida and the U.S. with the RunnAmucks, and recording at places like Sun Studio in Memphis and Paradox in Sarasota. Josh also discusses his label Ripping Records, his studio Danger Room Recording Service, and the Orlando Punk Archive, where he documents overlooked bands and keeps Orlando’s punk history alive.
From Florida Metal to the Blues: Raped Ape, Divine Empire, and More /////////////////// In this episode, we are joined by guitarist JP Soars to trace his journey from South Florida’s metal scene of the 1980s and 1990s to a decades-long career as a blues artist. JP shares stories from early bands like Raped Ape, Malevolent Creation, and Divine Empire, recording at Morrisound Studios and Studio 13, playing and seeing shows at venues like the Cameo Theater, The Treehouse, The Pit, Weekends, Metal Factory, and more, as well as radio, zines, and touring.He also talks about discovering blues, jazz, and roots music early on, inspired by artists like BB King, Muddy Waters, and Albert King, which eventually led to a full-circle career shift and collaborations with Jason Newsted of Metallica and Lee Oskar of War.
#123 Matt Fox (Shai Hulud)

#123 Matt Fox (Shai Hulud)

2026-01-1602:35:22

Shai Hulud, Murrychesstoes, Bingo Mut & Metal, Hardcore, Punk – Touring, Recording & More /////////////// In this episode, we sit down with Matt Fox of Shai Hulud, Bingo Mut, and the Fabulous Murrychesstoes as he reflects on his early years in South Florida’s music scene. He shares stories of his first bands, including Evilalive, Unwilful Demise, Planet X, and more, plus memories of touring and seeing bands like Slayer, Cro-Mags, Destruction, and Testament.Matt dives into the early days of Shai Hulud - from demos with Damien Moyal and Jason Lederman to Chad Gilbert on the first 7”, LP, split 10”, and later LP - and their 2013 reunion for Reach Beyond the Sun. He also recalls working with Steve Keisalth, Spikey Goldbach, and recording with Jeremy Staska and Steve Heritage.From iconic Florida venues like the Cameo Theater, Treehouse, and the former State Theater in St. Pete, to touring the U.S., Canada, Europe, Japan, and Australia, Matt shares the people, bands, and places that shaped his journey.
The Story of Raf Classic: Miami's The Crumbs, Cavity, Punk Touring Stories, and More /////////// In this episode, Raf Classic shares his journey from growing up in Peru to immersing himself in Miami’s punk and skate scene in the mid-1980s. He recalls early concerts at the Hollywood Sportatorium and Cameo Theater, teaching himself guitar, and forming his first band, Social Decay.Raf talks about joining Cavity, then called Crawl, recording the Scalpel 7" and touring Florida and the East Coast. He then formed The Crumbs, sharing stories from rehearsals, recording, touring including Gilman Street in Berkeley, and signing with Lookout Records. He reflects on the band’s evolution, lineup changes, and memorable Florida shows.Now on the West Coast, Raf continues making music with projects like Marching Party and Tiger Tank, keeping the same passion that started his journey decades ago.
The Untold Story of Spikey Goldbach and His Musical Journey /////////////// In this episode, we’re joined by Chris “Spikey” Goldbach, a longtime figure in Florida’s punk and alternative music scene. He talks about growing up in Tamarac, getting his first drum kit at 10, and discovering early influences like The Ramones, Devo, and AC/DC. Spikey walks through the South Florida scene of the 1980s and 1990s, mentioning venues such as the Cameo, Club Soda, and Washington Square, and the impact of seeing bands like Black Flag, Bad Brains, and Descendents.He reflects on his work with bands including Distant Anger, Blatant View, Nuclear Beer, RadioBaghdad, Collapsing Lungs, Irish Car Bomb, Hudson, Shai Hulud, and others, sharing stories from touring, recording with Jeremy Staska and Bill Stevenson, and experiencing a major-label run. Spikey continues to perform with Against All Authority and remains active in music today while living in Indiana.
#119 Amboog-A-Lard

#119 Amboog-A-Lard

2025-11-1902:10:55

The Untold Story of Amboog-A-Lard and the Making of “A New Hope” with Chad Steinhart, Dan Fontana, & John Somerlade //////// One of our most anticipated episodes is finally here! For the first time, three-quarters of the “A New Hope” Amboog-A-Lard lineup, Chad Steinhart (keyboards), Dan Fontana (guitar/vocals), and John Somerlade (drums), join the podcast to share the full story of the band.From their late 1980s roots in Coral Springs, FL, and influences like KISS, Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Anthrax, to rehearsal spaces and local venues including Club Soda (Coral Springs), The Treehouse and The Button South (Hallandale), Reunion Room and The Edge (Ft. Lauderdale), and Washington Square and the Cameo Theater (Miami Beach), as well as guidance from TCA Management (John Tovar and Frank Callari), this episode covers it all. The band talks about the origins of their name, lineup changes, album artwork, the making of their 1993 album “A New Hope” (recorded at Studio 13 in Deerfield with Jeremy Staska, mastered at Criteria Studios in Miami, and recently remastered at TyFy Studios in Orlando by Dan Fontana), several close calls being signed by major labels like Atlantic, Capitol, and Island Records, and stories from opening for Overkill, Exodus, Anthrax, Corrosion of Conformity, and punk legends The Ramones, as well as sharing the stage with countless local bands of the era including Malevolent Creation, Raped Ape, Cynic, Saigon Kick, Marilyn Manson, and The Itch, and their relationship with Glenn Richards, South Florida radio DJ on 103.5 WSHE.The band also shares stories about Jeordie White, the band’s bassist who later joined Marilyn Manson (though he does not appear in this episode), along with untold anecdotes from their early days. For anyone who experienced the South Florida metal and alternative scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, this episode is pure nostalgia. For those discovering it now, it is packed with rich history and behind-the-scenes stories never shared before.
From the Slammie Awards to La Fiesta de Punk Rock: Jim Hayward’s Untold Story //////////// In this episode, we are joined by Jim Hayward, the founder of Slammie Productions and a longtime journalist whose career at the Palm Beach Post spanned over 40 years. Jim shares his incredible journey through South Florida’s underground music scene and his parallel life in journalism.He reflects on his early exposure to music through his concert-promoter father, the rise of South Florida’s punk, metal, and hardcore scenes in the 1980s and 1990s, founding the South Florida Slammie Awards where he promoted over 700 bands, and managing the band Raped Ape. Jim shares stories about shows with Marilyn Manson, Nonpoint, Against All Authority, New Found Glory, and others, performing at iconic venues like The Button South, The Plus Five, Respectable Street, and The Edge, which later became The Chili Pepper and eventually Revolution, as well as The Factory and many more. He also talks about his passion for the tiki scene, and more.
Nancy Goff of Gainesville's Atoms for Peace, Flesh Castanets, and More ////////////// In this episode we are joined by Nancy Goff, a drummer in Gainesville’s early 1980s underground music scene. Nancy shares her story as a member of Atoms for Peace and Flesh Castanets, from playing DIY shows around Gainesville at The Metro and the American Legion Hall, to recording at Mirror Image Studios with Bob McPeek, and navigating the evolving alternative music landscape of the early 80s.Nancy also talks about her later years, moving to Hollywood, FL in 2005, reuniting with Atoms for Peace bandmate and friend Audrey Silverman for the cover band Shield The Apples, and later connecting with the School of Rock to continue playing and teaching music.
#116 Dino Felipe

#116 Dino Felipe

2025-10-2801:12:06

Dino’s Journey: Three Decades of Experimental Sounds and Visual Art /////////// In this episode, we sit down with Miami’s Dino Felipe to explore three decades of experimental music, creativity, and visual art. From his early days with FKTRN, home recordings, and domestic and international touring, Dino shares insights into his creative journey.He reminisces about shows at Churchills, highlights some of his favorite local 90s bands like Kreamy 'Lectic Santa (KLS), Los Canadiens, and Load, talks about visiting Y&T Records, and reflects on the importance of Frank “Rat Bastard” Falestra in the local scene. Dino also dives into his music catalog, discusses making videos, and shares his sources of inspiration, among other topics.
Matt Sweeting: Tales from the Utility House, Hardback, and More //////////In this episode, Matt Sweeting shares his story as a longtime part of Gainesville’s punk and hardcore scene since the early 1990s. He talks about growing up in Miami, seeing shows at The Junkyard, The Thrash Can, and other spots both big and small, and eventually moving to Gainesville for college in 1992.He reflects on several of the bands he’s played in, from Utility, Tired From Now On, Strikeforce Diablo, Assholeparade, True North, and more, and promoting shows at his first house in Gainesville, the Utility House, to purchasing the Hardback Cafe in 1998, and then starting Wayward Council in 1999. He also talks about his time at No Idea Records, touring the U.S., Europe, and Japan, and so much more!
#114 Mike Brown (Damage)

#114 Mike Brown (Damage)

2025-10-0302:00:09

The Story of Orlando's Damage with Mike Brown /////// Mike Brown of Orlando synth hardcore band Damage shares the story of the band’s journey through Central Florida’s underground music scene.The band started out as Brain Damage, but shortened the name to Damage for a gig at a Chuck E. Cheese, of all places. From there, things took off. One of their most iconic shows was opening for the Dead Kennedys at the Syrian Lebanese Hall in Orlando.Mike talks about the band’s lineup over the years, venues, and various shows and scenes across Florida. He also shares what it was like to bring Damage back after nearly 35 years.We dig into the origins of Space Fish Records, Splash Zine, and Club Space Fish. The club hosted countless shows, but is most remembered for the infamous GG Allin performance that ultimately led to its closure.Mike also touches on his 90s band Disco Biscuit and gives us a look at what Damage is doing today.
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