In this episode of Inside the Music, StereoRuss sits down with genre bending musician and sonic architect Tom Meikle, known for his project Mappe Of, to explore the layered, emotional worlds behind his music and upcoming album Afterglades which will be released September 19. Recorded at Catherine North Studios, Tom’s creative second home, Tom opens up about his creative process, from guitar-forward songwriting to glitchy modular synth experimentation, and even building glitch textures by importing .exe software files into Audacity (yes, really!). Whether you're a fan of ambient guitar, high-concept sound design, or just want to hear two Radiohead nerds discuss Kid A, this episode is a headphone worthy ride through some of the most inventive and heartfelt music being made today. Songs Featured:“A Scourge Laid Upon the Earth” – Mappe Of“Honey Haze” – Mappe Of“Happiness in the Singularity” – Mappe Of Listen to Mappe Of:https://open.spotify.com/artist/02Zxif3WoHx6ujXBSfBKOr Follow Mappe Of:Instagram: @mappeofWebsite: https://www.mappeof.com Follow Inside the Music:Instagram: @stereorussTikTok: @stereorussYouTube: @StereoRuss 📬 Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List:https://stereoruss.com

In this episode of Inside the Music, StereoRuss sits down with producer, mixer, and studio owner Will Crann at the legendary Catherine North Studios in Hamilton, Ontario. Will shares his journey to becoming co-owner of one of Hamilton’s most beloved recording spaces. He opens up about his early days playing bass in House Art, how a broken piece of gear led to an internship that turned into studio ownership, and why he's grateful for the people he works with. The conversation dives into the realities of running a commercial studio, everything from cleaning mixes to cleaning bathrooms. Will also reflects on what makes a great collaboration between artist and producer and the emotional depth of a good mix. Whether you’re a gearhead, a budding artist, or just a fan of stories from behind the scenes, this episode is a down to earth look at what it really means to live a life in music, and build a space where others can do the same.   Follow Will Crann and Catherine North Studios:Instagram: @willcrannEmail: will@catherinenorth.comStudio: https://www.catherinenorth.com Follow Inside the Music:Instagram: @stereorussTikTok: @stereorussYouTube: @StereoRuss 🎧 Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List:https://stereoruss.com

In this episode of Inside the Music, StereoRuss sits down with Toronto-based guitarist Robb Cappelletto to unpack the making of Float, the new album from his instrumental jazz-fusion group Re.verse. Robb shares the band’s journey from weekly bar residencies to headlining the Toronto Jazz Festival, and how years of live performance and experimentation shaped the tight, genre-blending sound on Float. He breaks down the balance between composition and improvisation, the subtle science of groove, and how a spontaneous jam turned into the band’s standout single “Trails.” The episode dives deep into the nuances of modern instrumental music, the legacy of J Dilla’s drumming, and how a single Instagram clip sparked debate across the internet. Robb also opens up about finding the perfect studio match in engineer Alex Gamble, tracking without a click, and building music that hits with both precision and feel. Whether you're a producer, a guitarist, or just a music fan, this episode is a masterclass in musicianship, authenticity, and the grind behind great instrumental records. Featuring live spins of:  Smoke Signals” – Re.verse“1030” – Re.verse“Trails” – Re.verse Listen to Re.verse’s new album Float:https://open.spotify.com/album/7fpBFUEHMTVq6AJVC9h6Le https://www.instagram.com/rvrs416/ Follow Robb Cappelletto:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robbcappellettoWebsite: https://robbcappelletto.com Follow Inside the Music:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stereorussYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List!https://stereoruss.com/

In this episode of Inside the Music, host StereoRuss heads to an elementary school in Dundas, Ontario, part rehearsal space, part recording studio, and full-on headquarters for Hamilton’s rising indie rock band, Superstar Crush. StereoRuss sits down with Marzieh, Sam, Chloe, and Truaxe to talk about their new album Way Too Much, chatting producer Tyler Kyte of Dwayne Gretzky, balancing DIY roots with lush arrangements, and how the glockenspiel truly is the life of the party.  Whether you’re a fan of indie pop, chaotic harmony, or just love joyful, tight-knit bands doing big things, this is a fun episode you won't want to miss! Featuring first plays of:Fire Escape - Superstar CrushThey Keep Calling - Superstar CrushDo What You Want (New & Improved) - Superstar Crush Follow and Listen to Superstar Crush:https://www.instagram.com/superstarcrushbandhttps://linktr.ee/superstarcrush Follow Inside the Music:https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/https://www.tiktok.com/@stereorusshttps://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss Join the Inside the Music Crew:https://stereoruss.com/

In this behind-the-scenes episode of Inside the Music, host StereoRuss sits down with producer and tour manager Aidan Robson at Hamilton’s legendary Catherine North Studios. Aidan opens up about his musical roots in punk and country, his evolution as a producer, and his recent work with artist Dean James on the road and in the studio. Together, they explore the creative process behind Dean's latest single “Burned It Down,” from remote recording sessions in Omemee, Ontario to spontaneous breakthroughs in production. Aidan also shares wild stories from the recent crosscountry tour, including a last minute show in Wawa that turned into a packed party thanks to one Facebook message. Whether you’re a producer, an artist, or just love music, this episode offers a rare and honest glimpse into the chaos, hustle, and joy of life behind the scenes. Featuring live spins of: Burned It Down – Dean James Over You - Minor Gold Danger - AHI Listen to and follow Dean James:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7nrjJu4T2iZXOUgA3WyGR7https://www.instagram.com/deanjamesmusic/ Connect with Aidan Robson:Email: aidan@catherinenorth.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashaiden Follow Inside the Music:https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/https://www.tiktok.com/@stereorusshttps://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List!https://stereoruss.com/

In this heartfelt episode of Inside the Music, host Stereo Russ welcomes back beloved Hamilton-based artist Bernadette Connors for her fourth appearance on the show. Together, they dive deep into Bernadette’s journey from Georgina to Hamilton, the emotional evolution behind her songwriting, and the release of her powerful new single “White Magnolia.” With stories of vulnerability, growth, and the importance of community, this candid conversation highlights what makes Bernadette one of Hamilton’s most compelling voices. Plus, listeners get a special treat with live spins of “White Magnolia,” “History,” and more. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and the kind of musical connection that only Inside the Music can deliver.   White Magnolia - Bernadette Connors History - Bernadette Connors Blame Me - Bernadette ConnorsListen to and Follow Bernadette Connors: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0amdwmduZDnkuGlGb9bQIp https://www.youtube.com/@bernadetteconnors https://www.instagram.com/bernadetteconnors   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List! https://stereoruss.com/

In this episode I sit down with Jesse Adams, pop singer and songwriter whose energy is as infectious as her hooks. We chat about cats, Fabio, and the ever-important question: how many dancers is the correct number of dancers for a live musical performance? It was the best of times, it was the worst of times -- it was a great time! Recorded at the legendary Catherine North Studio, this episode is full of fun, flair, and a whole lot of personality.Songs from the Episode:Love You Like I Do - Jesse AdamsGravity - Jesse AdamsVictory - Jesse AdamsGrieving - Jesse Adams   Listen to and Follow Jesse Adams: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1knZLmZB5hXpLG5mfujbiz https://www.instagram.com/jesse_francesca/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jesseadamss   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List! https://stereoruss.com/  

In this episode I sit down with Orchidae, the ever-so talented vocalist and multi-instrumentalist from Gatineau, Quebec, along with the very funky bassist Greggory Clark. We dive into the highs and lows of tour life, the many faces of artistic expression, and the joy of making friends along the way. Not only does this episode feature a live performance, but we also take a call live on air for an unexpected twist in our chat --this one is simply jammed full of great moments to enjoy!   Songs from the Episode: "Sun and the Stars" - Orchidae "Mouth Breathing Fire" - Orchidae "Sometimes" - Orchidae "Birth Day I" - Orchidae Follow and Listen to Orchidae: https://www.instagram.com/orchidae/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/3OBfOSJPueAM6pXxabfFwe   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List! https://stereoruss.com/

In this episode of Inside the Music, I sat down with producer Michael Keire at Threshold Recording Studios—a mainstay recording destination in downtown Hamilton, Ontario—where he and a crew of musicians assembled to finished recording his first personal project in many years, King Ludd with a debut single “Trouble.”   Songs from the Episode: "Trouble" - King Ludd "Fake Out" - Munroe Listen to King Ludd & Threshold Studios https://open.spotify.com/artist/2jE3xsMyCOVCjNzMVUBDB5 https://www.instagram.com/kingluddmusic/ https://www.instagram.com/thresholdrecordingstudio/   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss Sign up for the Inside the Music Mailing List: https://stereoruss.com/  

We talked about his love for country legends like Merle Haggard and Chris Stapleton, his upcoming 20-stop Canadian tour, and—of course—his favourite fried chicken spots. If you’re into country music, great stories, or just want to meet an artist on the rise, you’ll love this one.   Listen to Dean James: https://open.spotify.com/album/6yLIDZ6LjU9X0S7gSY5W2G https://www.instagram.com/deanjamesmusic/Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Jesse Cannon is a record producer, music marketing expert, author, podcast producer who breaks down how to promote your music project, how to write songs you're happier with, how the music business actually works and how to make progress with building your fanbase.   Follow Jesse Cannon & Musformation: Music Marketing Trends Newsletter https://musicmarketingtrends.com YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Musformation Mix/Mastering http://foundsoundation.com/ Book On Building A Fanbase https://amzn.to/3LYnbHV Book On Making Great Music: https://amzn.to/3BmJSRu Free Tools https://ko-fi.com/jessecannon Instagram, Twitter, TikTok @JesseCannon Consulting http://www.jessecannon.com/consulting   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

James Favron is an award winning rapper and singer, fashion designer & founder of The Better Days Club.   Songs from Episode: Holding My Breath - James Favron Better Days - James Favron I'll Be Alright - James Favron Steady - James Favron John Wick - James Favron   Follow and Listen to James Favron: Music and Videos Instagram   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

KT and KP is a hip hop/pop fusion duo. Ktriggs (KT) is a rapper and community event coordinator from Hamilton, Ontario. Kristen Prince (KP) is saxophone player, singer, and multi-instrumentalist who has performed with many artists including the Arkells, Canadian legend Andy Kim (Sugar Sugar), Lowest of the Low, Suzie McNeil, My Son the Hurricane, and 4-time Juno nominee Tom Barlow.   Songs from Episode: Bad Dream - KT and KP Moving On - KT and KP (live) Dreams Don't Sleep - KTriggs Dancing Through the Pain - Barlow Lyrissa - KTriggs (ft. Alyssa DVM) Piles Up - Barlow   Follow and Listen to KT and KP: Music and Videos Instagram   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Ian Butcher is a guitarist and songwriter from London, Ontario and also happens to be StereoRuss' oldest music comrade. In this episode, Ian and Russ go down memory lane and chat all things music, guitar, influences, and life.   Follow and Listen to Ian Butcher: https://irruptions.bandcamp.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bourgeoiseaux/   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Sean Bienhaus is an independent artist, performer, and producer from Hamilton, Ontario. Focused on honesty, poetry, and storytelling, his songs revolve around themes of mental illness, community, love, and resilience, with music centred in sounds of folk, pop and rock.   Songs from Episode: Aging Song - Sean Bienhaus Bad Day - Sean Bienhaus Wrong - Sean Bienhaus   Listen to and Follow Sean Bienhaus: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6iczO1UAuFFCruWNhM86J2 https://www.seanbienhaus.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/seanbienhaus/   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Main Stage Rehearsal Studio is an award winning rehearsal space in Hamilton, Ontario. With hourly and monthly rehearsal spaces, concert rooms, a dance studio, and podcasting space, Main Stage aims to provide both musicians and non-musicians a place to explore their creativity and create community.   Today we recorded at the Main Stage podcasting space and were joined by Kelly NG (VP Finance & Co-founder) and Justin Dobbin (President & Co-founder) as we talk music, community, and their nomination for a Music City Award for Best Use of Real Estate.  *Note: This was recorded on November 10 and Main Stage has since WON the award!!   Follow Main Stage: https://www.instagram.com/mainstagerehearsal/   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Luke Bentham is the singer and guitarist of The Dirty Nil, a Juno award winning punk rock band from Hamilton, Ontario. Peter van Helvoort is the bass player for Glorious Sons and previously singer-songwriter for Teenage Kicks and Darling Congress. The two join StereoRuss today to chat about their upcoming gigs together, as well as insights into the world of The Dirty Nil, vocal performances, and life on the road.   Songs from the Episode: Pain of Infinity - The Dirty Nil Digging Up Old Bones - Teenage Kicks   Follow and listen to Luke: Luke Bentham on Instagram The Dirty Nil on Instagram The Dirty Nil on Spotify   Follow and listen to Peter: Peter van Helvoort on Instagram The Glorious Sons on Instagram The Glorious Sons on Spotify Teenage Kicks on Instagram Teenage Kicks on Spotify   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Warren Huart is a multiplatinum winning record producer, musician, composer and recording engineer based in Los Angeles, California who has worked with countless artists including The Fray and Aerosmith as well as films such as Inglorious Bastards. He runs a DIY YouTube Channel called "Produce Like a Pro" with 795,000 subscribers worldwide and was awarded a 2019 TEC Award for Audio Education Technology. In 2023, he released "Home Studio Recording: The Complete Guide".   For More Warren Huart & Produce Like a Pro: Purchase "Home Studio Recording: The Complete Guide" https://www.youtube.com/@Producelikeapro https://www.instagram.com/producelikeapro/ https://www.instagram.com/warrenhuart/   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Costa is a drummer and band leader of World's Tallest Man Saves Dolphin, an 11-piece jazz fusion group formed in Brantford, Ontario.   Songs from Episode: In the Cut - World's Tallest Man Saves Dolphin Uptake - World's Tallest Man Saves Dolphin   Follow and Listen to Costa & WTMSD: https://www.instagram.com/costachatzis/ https://www.instagram.com/wtmsdofficial/ Spotify   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss

Mister Rabbit, from Hamilton, Ontario, formed right before the pandemic (Jan. 2020) as friends from work with shared musical interests. In 2023 they released a full length record End Of History Illusion, and just released their followup EP "The Era of Good Feelings".   Songs from episode: Blue Yonder - Mister Rabbit Freeing Filth - Mister Rabbit Hue & Cry - Mister Rabbit   Follow and Listen to Mister Rabbit: https://www.instagram.com/himisterrabbit/ https://linktr.ee/himisterrabbit   Follow Inside the Music: https://www.instagram.com/stereoruss/ https://www.tiktok.com/@stereoruss https://www.youtube.com/@stereoruss