Waterproof Records with Jacob Givens

This week I’m trying something brand new on the podcast — I’m making you a 90s mixtape! These are ten tracks that never fail to wake me up, keep me energized, and remind me why music is pure fuel for the soul. Expect deep cuts, anthems, personal stories, and the kind of nostalgia only a true 90s mixtape can deliver. Whether you grew up blasting these tracks on a road trip, or you’re discovering them for the first time, these songs will give you the same rush they’ve always given me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, I’m thrilled to welcome Luke Bentham and Kyle Fisher of The Dirty Nil — a band I’ve been championing since their explosive debut hit my ears back in 2016. We go way beyond the music to talk about their almost 20-year journey as bandmates and childhood friends, their beginnings with basement jams, and their shared love for blistering riffs and emotional resonance. If you're into authentic rock stories, deep musical dives, and the spirit of DIY grit, this one's for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a short break and a brand-new studio setup, we’re turning our focus to one of the most powerful albums of the 90s — In Utero by Nirvana. This episode unpacks the raw energy, rebellious spirit, and creative fire that fueled Kurt Cobain’s final masterpiece. From the thunderous Steve Albini production to the chaotic brilliance of “Scentless Apprentice” and the unforgettable visuals of “Heart-Shaped Box,” this is a full-blown nostalgia trip through a record that shook the world. Plus, I share personal memories of hearing these songs as a teen and what they meant back then — and still mean today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with Rome Ramirez—the voice behind Sublime with Rome, collaborator with The Dirty Heads, and a musical force embarking on a brand new chapter of his career. Rome opens up about his journey from growing up in Northern California to becoming a central figure in Sublime’s legacy. We talk about the moment he discovered Sublime’s self-titled album, what that record meant to him as a kid, and how it changed the trajectory of his life. But we go deeper than music—we talk about the hustle of LA, fatherhood, what inspires him now as a solo artist, and the joys (and challenges) of passing down our musical obsessions to our kids. This is one of the most heartfelt, honest, and inspiring conversations we’ve had yet. Let’s go! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Waterproof Records, we revisit the groundbreaking debut of one of the most unforgettable voices of the '90s—Fiona Apple. From the haunting vulnerability of “Sullen Girl” to the lyrical fire of “Sleep to Dream,” we explore how Tidal introduced us to a teenage prodigy with wisdom beyond her years. We dive into the cultural impact of the Criminal video, the controversy surrounding her MTV VMAs speech, and the maturity packed into lyrics written when she was just 14. This isn't just an album review—it's a reflection on trauma, self-expression, and the raw power of art. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Punk rock is alive and well — and Teen Mortgage is leading the charge! In this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with the gritty DMV based duo as they pass through LA on tour. We talk about their journey from Craigslist connections to pink furry drums and their killer new album Devil Ultrasonic Dream. From childhood influences to chaotic tour stories, this convo is packed with raw energy, DIY ethos, and deep dives into the punk spirit that fuels their music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It can't rain all the time..." unless you're living in the '90s and wearing your teenage angst like a badge of honor. In this episode of Waterproof Records, I explore the iconic soundtrack of The Crow—an unforgettable mix of goth, grunge, and industrial that defined a generation. From The Cure’s haunting “Burn” to Stone Temple Pilots, Nine Inch Nails, Rage Against the Machine, and more—this is a love letter to the music that helped us brood in our bedrooms and feel every ounce of heartache. 🖤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From garage band dreams to headlining stages, Ian Shelton of Militarie Gun joins me for a raw, hilarious, and insightful chat about his journey through music. We get into his pop punk roots, pandemic creativity, and how a 50-hour work week and an iPhone helped launch one of the most exciting bands of the 2020s. We also talk about male lingerie, drumming egos, and what it really means to “do it faster.” Plus, Ian shares the story behind his Waterproof Record—the album that lit the fuse and made him want to start a band in the first place. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a special one—The Dumes are here! I met this band around a year ago when they opened for Louise Post at the Troubadour, so it was so cool to finally sit down and chat with the band. So welcome singer Elodie Tomlinson, guitarist Peter Recine, and bassist Liam McCormick to talk about their journey, their influences, and the music they’ve been working on. From the bands that shaped their sound to what’s next on their horizon, we cover it all in this epic conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time's up! No, seriously—let’s jump headfirst into Time's Up, the second album from the legendary New York band Living Colour! This episode is all about the groundbreaking 1990 record that blew my mind as a kid and still holds up today with its powerful mix of rock, funk, metal, jazz, and thought-provoking themes. I share my personal connection to the album, my first experiences hearing it, and why Time's Up was the first rock record to open my eyes to politics, race, and social issues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I sat down with Kevin Martin to talk about Candlebox’s journey—from their explosive debut in the Seattle grunge scene of the ‘90s to their farewell album, The Long Goodbye. Kevin shares stories about the band’s rise, their biggest influences, and what it was like finding his voice. We also geek out about the modern music scene, female rock powerhouses, and why some songs never get old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Shawna Potter, the powerhouse lead singer of War on Women—a fierce punk band from Baltimore, Maryland. We talk about her journey, the impact of music, the fight for social justice, and, of course, the record that changed everything for her. A groundbreaking 90s album that inspired her to pick up a guitar and set her on the path to fronting a band that blends activism with raw energy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re sitting down with Cody Hanson, drummer and founding member of Hinder, to talk about 20 years of rock, life on the road, and what’s next for the band. Cody talks about Hinder’s journey, from their breakout album Extreme Behavior to their upcoming tour and new music. We dive into Cody’s musical influences, growing up in Oklahoma, and what he feels is his personal 'waterproof record.' Plus, a funny discovery about hidden rap skills! Hinder is hitting the road for their Back to Life Tour—catch them live in 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we’re cranking up the nostalgia and breaking down the legendary Pump Up the Volume soundtrack from the 1990 cult classic starring Christian Slater. This soundtrack was a defining piece of my youth, full of iconic tracks that pushed boundaries and opened doors to the alternative music scene of the '90s. This was also the soundtrack that introduced me to lyrics and themes that were edgy enough to upset my parents and make my teenage self feel rebellious and empowered.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy 2025! In this episode, we dive into my top 10 albums of 2024. From the intense energy of live performances to groundbreaking studio albums, I break down the music that defined my year. Plus, I’ll share some honorable mentions and stories from the festivals and experiences that made these picks even more special. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Foo Fighters' iconic second album, The Colour and the Shape. Discover the stories behind classic tracks like "Everlong," "Monkey Wrench," and "My Hero," as we unpack the band's creative process, the drama behind the recording sessions, and how Dave Grohl transformed personal struggles into unforgettable rock anthems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we're diving deep into the iconic soundscapes of Portishead's groundbreaking 1994 album, Dummy. From its eerie noir vibes to the lush trip-hop beats, this quintessential '90s masterpiece defined a genre and influenced a generation of music lovers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Around 1997, it started to feel like my music tastes were beginning to mellow and I wasn't seeking out heavy music as much anymore-- until one day when I turned on MTV and saw this band called Deftones screaming with sharks for the My Own Summer (Shove It) music video. Around the Fur would be my introduction to this alternative metal band from Sacramento, and the sexy, cool, sinister sound of loud / quiet / loud suited my tastes perfectly.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After attending Best Friends Forever Festival, my mind was transported back to a time in the late 90s when I was leaving high school and entering college in Illinois. It just so happened that at the same time, the Midwestern Emo scene was blossoming all around me, and the out of body experience I would feel about these bands inspired a truly emotional episode about my time in the Midwest as a young adult.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Waterproof Records I welcome drummer Tim Dow from Shiner, Year of the Rabbit, as well as several other collaborations and side projects. Tim shares his musical journey, some of his dazed and confused inspirations as a teenager, and why becoming a sandwich drummer could very well be the next best thing.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices