Caught on the Mike...

From the underground industrial scene to the bright lights of pop stardom — and all the unexpected turns in between — Stella Soleil’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and raw creativity. The Chicago native first made her mark working alongside icons like Ministry, Die Warzau, and 16 Volt before forming Sister Soleil, catching the attention of Universal Records, and landing a Top 40 hit with “Kiss Kiss.” Her voice would go on to be heard around the world — featured in Kiss the Girls, Underworld: Awakening, and even climbing international charts in multiple languages. After a successful run in A&R and a powerhouse return to the stage as frontwoman of Dirty Little Rabbits with Slipknot’s Shawn Crahan, Stella has once again found herself back where it all began — chasing the creative spark. Her latest project revisits the long-shelved single “HELLO,” now reimagined with producer John Fryer and a dream team of collaborators, signaling a bold new chapter in her ever-evolving journey. In this episode, Stella joins Mike for an honest and inspiring conversation about the highs, the heartbreaks, and the magic that keeps her making music on her own terms.

Atlanta’s own DAYDRNKRZ are breaking boundaries and turning heads with their signature mix of reggae-infused hip-hop and alternative rock. In this episode, the band dives deep into their creative process, the story behind their name, and how they’ve built a sound that feels both nostalgic and brand new. Signed to SKP — the same label that’s home to 311, The Ries Brothers, and Sitting on Saturn — DAYDRNKRZ are carving their own lane in the modern alt scene. With their single “FMLU” making waves and their latest album “XOXO” capturing the highs and lows of life and love, this conversation is all about passion, growth, and good vibes. The band opens up about how they came together in Atlanta, the evolution of their sound, and the balance between laid-back reggae rhythms and hip-hop grit. They share the inspiration behind “FMLU” and the creative journey of “XOXO,” while also talking about life on the road, their electrifying live shows, and what’s next as they continue to rise in the scene. 🌴 Sit back, turn it up, and get to know one of the most exciting new names in alternative music — DAYDRNKRZ. #DAYDRNKRZ #ReggaeRock #HipHopFusion #AltMusic #SKPRecords #TheRiesBrothers #311 #SittingOnSaturn #PodcastInterview #NewMusic2025 #AtlantaMusic

Grammy®-nominated, platinum-selling artist John Ondrasik—better known as Five for Fighting—joins the show for an in-depth conversation about the music, meaning, and moments that have shaped his remarkable career. From writing timeless hits like “Superman (It’s Not Easy)” and “100 Years” to performing for humanitarian causes around the world, John’s work continues to inspire reflection and resilience. We talk about his upcoming Five for Fighting with String Quartet Tour, the power of songwriting in uncertain times, and how music can still make a difference in a divided world. 🎶 Whether you grew up with his songs or just discovered them, this is a powerful and personal look behind one of the most respected voices in modern music.

What happens when over 225 musicians from 180 bands come together for the pure love of music? You get The Big Ol’ Nasty Getdown — a genre-bending collective that fuses funk, soul, rock, and hip hop into one massive creative explosion. In this episode, founder John Heintz joins the show to talk about the project’s evolution, the spirit of collaboration, and the making of their latest album, Volume 3. From Parliament Funkadelic to Living Colour, Jane’s Addiction to Earth, Wind & Fire — the Getdown has united musical icons and rising stars in a way that defies labels and celebrates freedom. Tune in as John shares behind-the-scenes stories, creative philosophies, and what it really takes to build a community through sound.

In this episode, I sit down with Dan Cinotto, a veteran of the Midwest rock and Nu Metal scene. From his early days in the Omaha-based Downshift to his current work with Narcotic Self, Dan has lived the evolution of heavy music firsthand. He’s also the co-host of the podcast We Were Loud Once ‪@WeWereLoudOncePod‬ alongside Jeff Geaghan — where the two dig deep into the Nu Metal movement from the perspective of musicians who were actually part of it. Together, Dan and I talk about that era’s energy, its impact on the Midwest scene, and why the genre is seeing a massive resurgence in 2025. Raw, reflective, and full of insight from someone who lived it.

Episode 200 | 5 Years!!!! This episode marks a major milestone — 200 episodes and five years of Caught on the Mike conversations. To celebrate, I’m joined by Howi Spangler the voice and driving force behind the long-running reggae rock band Ballyhoo!. From their start in Aberdeen, Maryland, to years of relentless touring, Ballyhoo! has built a dedicated following with a sound that blends reggae, rock, punk, and pop. In this episode, Howi shares the band’s journey through early struggles, breakthrough moments, and the lessons learned along the way. We dive into the art of songwriting, the reality of life on the road, and how to build a career in music that lasts decades. We also reflect on personal growth, creative evolution, and what it takes to keep pushing forward as both an artist and a band leader. This conversation is packed with stories, inspiration, and perspective — the perfect way to mark five years and 200 episodes. If you’re a longtime fan of Ballyhoo! or just discovering them now, this milestone episode offers an inside look at the passion and perseverance behind the music.

Bronx-born songwriter Ezra is stepping into a bold new chapter of his career. Fresh off the release of his emotionally-charged single “Intermission,” Ezra joins the show to talk about the heartbreak that inspired it, the cinematic mockumentary series accompanying his music, and the journey that led him from writing songs in his bedroom to signing with TAG Music founder Gabe Saporta. With millions of streams, sold-out shows, and a debut album on the horizon for 2026, Ezra is quickly emerging as one of alternative pop’s most exciting new voices. In this episode, he shares stories of first love, creative risks, and how he’s fusing late-’90s/early-2000s nostalgia with a Gen-Z lens to create something entirely his own. Listen in for a conversation about artistry, ambition, and what it takes to turn heartbreak into unforgettable music.

Nights in Stereo isn’t just a band—it’s a story nearly two decades in the making. The LA-based trio, made up of 9-1-1: Lone Star’s Ronen Rubinstein, Jonny Shoer, and Rodrigo Rodarte, recently released their debut EP Second Nature—a collection that fuses retro-grunge, shoegaze, and indie pop into something cinematic, emotional, and timeless. In this episode, the band opens up about the friendships and chance encounters that shaped their path, how the pandemic sparked a new creative era, and the process of reimagining old demos into something fresh and powerful. We also dive into Ronen’s balance between acting and music, the unique universe the band has built for their fans, and what lies ahead now that Second Nature is out in the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their lo-fi late-night sound, this conversation pulls you straight into the heart of Nights in Stereo’s journey.

Beauty School Dropout are shaking up the rock world — and in this episode, they join the conversation to talk about their explosive rise, their latest single “TWO OF US,” and their highly anticipated debut album Where Did All the Butterflies Go? Produced by the legendary Neal Avron (Fall Out Boy, twenty one pilots, Linkin Park), the album marks a bold new chapter for the band.From the emotional depth behind “TWO OF US” to the creative chaos of recording tracks like “SEX APPEAL,” “FEVER,” and “ON YOUR LIPS,” BSD break down how they’re redefining rock for a new generation. We also dive into their unforgettable live shows — from sold-out headline tours and festival stages at Lollapalooza and Download Festival, to massive arena tours with blink-182, Alkaline Trio, and jxdn.The band also shares stories about collaborating with some of the biggest names in music, including Mark Hoppus, Alex Gaskarth, MOD SUN, and Royal & the Serpent, while staying true to their core vision: celebrating individuality, freedom, and unapologetic self-expression.Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering Beauty School Dropout, this episode gives you an inside look at the passion, grit, and raw energy driving one of today’s most exciting bands.

Travie McCoy, frontman of Gym Class Heroes, joins me for an in-depth conversation about his artistic journey, the music that shaped him, and the legacy of a band that broke boundaries. From forming Gym Class Heroes in high school to topping the charts with songs like Cupid’s Chokehold and Stereo Hearts, Travie reflects on how the band’s unique fusion of hip hop, rock, funk, and pop resonated with fans around the world. He opens up about personal growth, creativity, and the resilience it takes to keep evolving as an artist. We also discuss collaborations with some of music’s biggest names, his solo career, and what it means to bring new energy and perspective into his work today. More than just a trip down memory lane, this episode is a look at artistry, transformation, and the timeless impact of music. If you’ve ever been moved by a Gym Class Heroes track or connected with Travie’s solo work, this episode is a must-listen.

Baltimore alt-rock veterans Have Mercy are back with their sixth studio album, the loneliest place i’ve ever been—a record fueled by vulnerability, loss, and late-night reflections. In this episode, frontman Brian Swindle opens up about the band’s journey from their early days in the Baltimore scene, through the highs of breakout albums like The Earth Pushed Back and A Place of Our Own, the heartbreak of loss and disbandment, and the revival that’s led to their most honest work yet. We dive into the stories behind new singles “august 17” and “tv glows,” what it means to make music that lingers in life’s quietest moments, and how Have Mercy continues to grow while honoring their past. 🎧 Stream the new album the loneliest place i’ve ever been August 29th via Rude Records.

Grammy-winning trumpet player, producer, and songwriter Emiliano Torres and virtuoso singer Camilo Rafael Sierra join me for a deep dive into the world of Xperimento—Miami’s ultimate musical fusion squad.Blending reggae, Latin soul, funk, and global sounds, Xperimento has been electrifying audiences since emerging from Miami’s underground music scene in 2009. Along the way, they’ve shared the stage with legends like Marc Anthony, Ricky Martin, Juanes, and even had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of Prince jumping in on one of their shows. Their chemistry as lifelong friends, combined with the band’s multicultural roots—spanning Puerto Rico, Argentina, Colombia, and Cuba—creates a sound that is as diverse as it is infectious.In this episode, Emiliano and Camilo open up about the energy that fuels their live performances, their travels performing for U.S. troops across the globe, and the creative process behind their self-produced EP Diferente and their brand-new single “Walked Away.”If you’re looking for stories filled with passion, culture, and nonstop rhythm, this conversation brings it all.

Ten years ago, X Ambassadors changed the alt-rock landscape with their debut album VHS, delivering unforgettable anthems like “Renegades” and “Unsteady.” Now, frontman Sam Nelson Harris reflects on a decade of growth, success, and transformation as the band prepares to release VHS(X)—a bold reimagining of the record that first put them on the map. In this conversation, Sam talks about revisiting the songs that launched their career and what they mean to him today, the creative process of breathing new life into fan favorites, and how re-recording tracks like “Renegades” offered surprising new perspectives. He also shares what fans can expect from the upcoming VHS(X) Tour, reflects on the band’s evolution from VHS to their latest album Townie, and dives into how his experiences writing and collaborating with artists like Rihanna, Eminem, and The Weeknd have shaped his artistry. This episode is both a celebration of the past and a glimpse into the future of one of alternative music’s most influential bands.

What happens when the raw energy of Black Flag collides with the timeless spirit of Bill Monroe? That’s exactly the question Water Tower has been answering since 2005. Founded in Portland and now thriving in Los Angeles, the band has built a reputation for their fearless DIY approach and genre-bending sound that seamlessly blends bluegrass, old-time, and punk rock. In this episode, Kenny Feinstein (lead vocals, guitar, fiddle, mandolin) and Tommy Drinkard (banjo, vocals) share how their unique musical DNA fuses tradition with rebellion, the impact of their move from Portland to LA, and how the band has evolved through different lineups and stages. They also reflect on their collaborations with icons like Ron Reyes of Black Flag and Nick Hexum of 311, their journey from street performances to viral videos, and what it’s like adapting their sound for radically different crowds—from the Vans Warped Tour to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Along the way, they reveal the passion and persistence that continue to drive Water Tower as they carve out their own path in modern music. If you love music that breaks rules while honoring its roots, this conversation is for you.

Like Ghosts has been shaping the emo and alt-rock scene out of San Antonio since 2014—building a sound full of raw emotion and melodic grit. 🎙️👻 Their debut EP To Feel Like You’re Drowning set the tone for what would become a career defined by authenticity and growth. With their breakout single “I Wish Things Were Different” surpassing 1.6 million streams, and an alternate version featuring Shane Told of Silverstein, the band quickly caught the attention of fans worldwide. Over the years, they’ve collaborated with heavy hitters like Kellin Quinn (Sleeping With Sirens), contributed to genre compilations, and even turned a cover of Ryan Cabrera’s “On the Way Down” into a real-life collaboration. On stage, they’ve earned their stripes opening for names like Sleeping With Sirens, Dayseeker, Bad Omens, and Craig Owens. Now signed to Manic Kat Records, Like Ghosts is pushing into new sonic territory—fusing their emo roots with future bass textures. Their latest single “Better Now” marks the beginning of a bold new chapter and the lead into their upcoming sophomore EP. This conversation dives into their journey, collaborations, and where they’re headed next.

From chart-topping success with Blue Moon Ghetto to shaping Omaha’s music scene through his new venture, Omaha Music Group, Matt Banta has a knack for creating the unforgettable. In this episode, we explore his journey through the highs and lessons of the music industry, his passion for nurturing local talent, and the exciting next chapter with his latest project, Space To Play—including an upcoming album you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering Matt’s work for the first time, this conversation offers an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at a true creative force.

From platinum records to pop culture icon—Ryan Cabrera opens up in a candid conversation about fame, authenticity, and navigating the highs and lows of the music industry. We talk about his early success, the lessons learned along the way, and how he continues to evolve as an artist and person. A raw, reflective, and surprisingly funny look behind the curtain of a career that helped define an era. 🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms.

What happens when two Grammy-winning legends—Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman and songwriter/producer Billy Mann—reconnect decades after sharing a high school vocal program and a deep love for harmony, storytelling, and soul?You get - CHOSEN FAMILY..In this heartfelt episode of Caught on the Mike, we explore the origins of Chosen Family, their new collaborative project born out of shared roots in Philly, personal growth, and the bond of fatherhood—both raising sons on the autism spectrum.From packed arenas with Boyz II Men to hit songs with P!nk, David Guetta, and John Legend, these two icons share stories of rediscovery, vulnerability, and building something new with purpose. Their upcoming album Generation Us is more than a record—it’s a movement for connection, compassion, and creativity.This conversation is a rare glimpse into the kind of friendship that time, music, and shared mission only deepen.

This week on Caught on the Mike, I sit down with Alex Dugan, the magnetic frontman of Culture Wars, to talk about the band’s latest single “Lies”—a raw, emotional 90s-tinged alt-rock ballad that’s already making waves. We get into the heart of the song’s origin—written in the aftermath of heartbreak and betrayal, and shaped by the realization that everything musically was about to change. Inspired by a life-altering New Order concert and years in the making, “Lies” has grown from synth beginnings to a powerful full-band anthem that now closes every Culture Wars show. Alex opens up about the vulnerability behind the lyrics, the band’s sonic evolution, and how this track paved the way for everything Culture Wars would become. We also talk about their massive year—touring with Wallows, Keane, and LANY, hitting the top 20 on alt radio, and gearing up for their headline shows in LA and NYC. This is more than just a conversation about a song—it’s a conversation about trusting your gut, healing through art, and finding the courage to put it all out there.

🎙️ Meet Glass Cities — a dynamic, genre-defying trio out of Miami making serious waves in the alt-rock world. Formed by Luis Salazar, Sam Ross, and Omar Gonzalez, Glass Cities blends euphoric melodies, gritty rhythms, and bilingual lyricism into a sound that’s uniquely their own. As first-generation immigrants, their story is as powerful as their music — shaped by culture, resilience, and a fearless approach to bending musical boundaries. In this conversation, we dive into how they formed, what drives their creative process, the meaning behind their lyrics, and what it’s like carving out a fresh sound in a crowded industry. Glass Cities isn’t just a band — it’s a movement in the making. 🎸🔥