In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I get to reconnect with my good friend and former colleague, Brock Derringer. Brock and I shared a lot of time on stage, in the pit, and the music department at Wesleyan School, and it was a blast to sit down and dig into his story.
We start with Brock’s roots in small-town Thomasville, Georgia, a place with an unexpectedly rich arts scene, and trace his journey from a 10-year-old piano student to becoming a versatile musician and educator. He shares about his musical family, the influential teachers who shaped him, and how early church gigs prepared him for a lifetime of accompanying, leading, and creating music.
Brock talks about his love of teaching, the decision to move from performance into music education, and his current work at Stillwell School of the Arts in Atlanta, where he teaches AP Music Theory and piano. We get into the challenges and changes in music education over the last two decades, the role (and limits) of technology in the classroom, and how he keeps evolving his teaching methods to meet students where they are today.
Of course, we reminisce about our time collaborating on musicals, choir projects, and the legendary “Sing-Off” events, including unforgettable Beatles and Billy Joel performances that brought students and faculty to their feet. Along the way, we swap thoughts on musical influences, Billy Joel, Keith Jarrett, Oscar Peterson, and the importance of process over product in mastering any craft.
This conversation is part reunion, part masterclass, and part trip down memory lane. Brock’s passion for music and dedication to his students are contagious, and I left this talk reminded of why making and teaching music matter so much.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I am thrilled to have a conversation with my friend, Steve Cunningham. Born and raised in Rochester, NY, Steve Cunningham draws inspiration from a wide range of artists—Led Zeppelin, Pat Metheny, Yes, and the Brecker Brothers—blending their influence with his deep appreciation for all genres of music. After relocating to Atlanta, he picked up the lap steel guitar, diving into the styles of David Lindley, western-swing legend Tom Morrell, and Sacred Steel master Aubrey Ghent.
A Studio Pro with a Killer Resume. As a sought-after session musician, Steve’s guitar work has shaped hundreds of albums, TV and radio commercials, and movie soundtracks. His credits include Coca-Cola, Ford, Chevrolet, MLB, NFL, IBM, Cartoon Network, PBS, Microsoft, CNN, NASCAR, and even a recording session with the London Symphony Orchestra.
One of Atlanta’s most in-demand guitarists, Steve brings his signature sound to 150+ performances a year, effortlessly weaving through jazz, R&B, rock, funk, gospel, country, blues, pop, and western-swing in various venues around the globe.
To learn more about Steve, visit his website.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with Rita Bliss, a fantastic musician, songwriter, and banjo player whose work blends old-time, Americana, and folk traditions with a fresh, personal twist. We discuss her musical journey, the deep roots of music in her family, and how growing up surrounded by instruments and storytelling influenced her voice and perspective. Rita opens up about her move to Austin, the vibrant music scene there, and how it’s influenced her as both a performer and a writer.
We dive into her songwriting process, the role of the banjo in her music, and the joy (and challenge) of recording and releasing new work. Rita shares some behind-the-scenes stories from recent singles and what it’s like to bring those songs to life in the studio. There’s also a lot of warmth in how she talks about live performances, that real-time connection with an audience that keeps the music breathing and evolving.
Originally from New York, Rita has carved out a unique voice in the Americana world with a sound that’s both grounded in tradition and deeply personal. Her thoughtful lyrics, intricate banjo work, and easygoing presence make her a compelling artist to watch. Toward the end of our conversation, we talk about what’s next, from upcoming shows to future releases, and it’s clear that Rita Bliss is just getting started.
To learn more about Rita, please visit her website.
Music from the episode:
Peaches & Apple Pie (Rita Bliss)
Drive You to Kentucky (Rita Bliss)
Best Bar in Texas (Rita Bliss)
We Will Sing (Rita Bliss)
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with the incredible Maeve Gilchrist, a Scottish harpist, composer, and innovator whose work bridges folk traditions and contemporary sounds. Born and raised in Edinburgh, Maeve was immersed in Celtic music from a young age and later studied at Berklee College of Music, where she expanded her approach to the harp through jazz, improvisation, and world music influences.
Maeve and I talk about her journey as an artist—from her early exposure to traditional Scottish and Irish music to her boundary-pushing projects in the worlds of contemporary classical, jazz, and film scoring. She shares how motherhood has deepened her relationship to her craft, and how she continues to evolve her voice while remaining rooted in tradition.
We explore her role as Artistic Director of the Rockport Celtic Festival, and dig into her album The Harp Weaver, a deeply personal work inspired by poetry and memory. Maeve reflects on the creative process, the power of collaboration, and the delicate balance between honoring tradition and forging new musical paths.
This is a rich and thoughtful conversation with one of today’s most original voices on the harp.
To learn more about Maeve, please visit her website.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I reconnect with my old friend and fellow musician Eddie Brumlow for a heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation. We talk about the unexpected turns life takes and how those shifts have shaped our paths as performers and educators.
Eddie opens up about the formative moments and mentors that helped shape his musical identity, the joy (and chaos) of memorable gigs, and the quiet victories of the classroom. We dig into what it means to teach music today, how collaboration fuels creativity, and why the communities we build through music might be the most essential part of the journey.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Brett Dietz, Director of Percussion at LSU, and someone who had a tremendous impact on my own family. Brett taught my son Skyler throughout his college years, and I've long admired him as both an educator and an artist. This was a special and personal conversation.
We discuss Brett's journey from studying under Michael Burritt at Northwestern to his unexpected opportunity at LSU in 2003, where he has been teaching for over two decades. He reflects on the evolution of the percussion studio, the effects of the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic on student development, and how the landscape of music education has shifted over the years.
We delve into teaching philosophies and how Brett identifies the most minor technical issues that unlock major improvements, and why teaching is ultimately about remembering what it's like to struggle. We also cover the deceptively complex art of triangle and tambourine playing, and how Brett balances classical rigor with kindness and adaptability.
And then there's Brett the composer. He shares the backstory behind his works, such as Sharpened Stick and Headcase, and how his early days in a high school garage band with Doug Perkins (yes, that Doug Perkins) led to a lifelong love of composing. He discusses studying under legends like Stanley Leonard, David Stock, and J. Allen Yim, and how those mentors shaped his artistic voice.
Whether you're a percussionist, a teacher, or just someone who loves stories about finding your path and making an impact, this episode is packed with insight, warmth, and some great laughs.
To learn more about Brett, visit his website.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I reconnect with my longtime friend Chad Jeffers. We go back to our days at Belmont University, and it’s been incredible to watch his journey unfold, from growing up in East Tennessee playing in family bands to touring the world with some of the biggest names in music.
Chad shares stories from his early days performing with his dad and brother, forming the band Raney Nickel, and eventually making his way to Nashville. After double-majoring in music business and marketing at Belmont, he landed an internship with Reba McEntire’s company, which gave him a behind-the-scenes education in the industry. From there, his career took off, touring with The Wilkinsons, signing with RCA as part of Pinmonkey, and later joining Carrie Underwood’s band.
We discuss his experiences performing everywhere from Vegas residencies to overseas military tours, and the lessons he has learned along the way about professionalism, collaboration, and being someone others want to work with. Chad also shares how his creative energy has led him into real estate, where he now helps clients with the same focus and passion he brings to the stage.
He even tells us about a new online course he has developed to help entrepreneurs prepare for client meetings, drawing unexpected yet powerful parallels between stage presence and business success.
To learn more about Chat, visit his website at chadjeffers.com.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I talk with producer, mixer, and engineer Rachael Moore, whose work spans some of the biggest names in music and film. Rachael has been a major force in Nashville for over a decade, collaborating with legends such as Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, and T-Bone Burnett. She also produced and recorded all the music for the Showtime series George & Tammy, starring Jessica Chastain and Michael Shannon.
Rachael shares her journey from growing up in the South to becoming a trusted name in Nashville’s production scene. We discuss her beginnings as a session engineer, the lessons she learned from top producers, and how she built a career by combining technical precision with a deep understanding of artists’ needs. She talks about her work on TV and film projects, including George & Tammy, Nashville, The Old Man, and the indie film Downtown Owl.
What stood out to me in our conversation was Rachael’s clear commitment to collaboration and service. She sees music production as a people-first business and takes pride in delivering on an artist’s vision, sometimes in unconventional ways, but always with heart. From navigating the pandemic to shaping organic sounds across genres like country, Americana, indie, and rock, Rachael’s story is a testament to adaptability, creativity, and love for the craft.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with William James, Principal Percussionist of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. We talk about his journey through the world of orchestral percussion, from early influences and summer programs to the high-pressure world of auditions. Will shares thoughtful insights on what it takes to succeed as a modern percussionist, both musically and administratively.
We dig into the evolving expectations placed on orchestral players, the challenges of recording and venue acoustics, and how creativity, flexibility, and technology are reshaping the field. We also reflect on the importance of great teachers, the value of building a strong repertoire, and the ongoing role education plays in both our lives.
Will’s passion for percussion extends far beyond performance—he’s a dedicated educator, chamber musician, and author. His contributions to the percussion community have had a lasting impact, and I was grateful for the opportunity to delve deeper into his story.
About William James:
William James is the Principal Percussionist of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra. He won the position at just 25, following studies at Northwestern University and the New England Conservatory. A versatile performer and educator, Will has played with top orchestras across the country, given solo recitals, taught masterclasses nationwide, and authored The Modern Concert Snare Drum Roll.
You can learn more about William at: williamjamespercussion.com
Music from the Episode:
Scirocco (Michael Burritt)
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this conversation, I sit down with Matt Rollings to explore his incredible journey as a musician. We talk about the early family influences that helped shape his path, his time in Nashville, and the career milestones that followed. Matt opens up about the importance of feel and connection in music, and how those elements often outweigh technical precision.
This episode is especially meaningful because Matt played on my album when I was just 11 years old. Reconnecting and talking music with him all these years later was a full-circle moment I’ll never forget.
We delve into some of his most memorable collaborations, the evolution of his work as a producer and educator, and the joy he derives from mentoring the next generation of musicians. Throughout our chat, we discuss the art of musical collaboration, the emotional interplay between players, and how listening—really listening—is at the heart of great music-making.
We also share our reflections and journeys through sobriety, vulnerability's role in life and art, and why curiosity and flexibility have remained core to his creative process. I'm excited to share this inspiring, thoughtful, and profoundly musical conversation with you.
Learn more about Matt at: mattrollings.com.
Music from the Episode:
Groove With a View (Matt Rollings)
I'm Little But I'm Loud (Brad Williams)
El Padre de Papagallos (Matt Rollings)
North Dakota (Lyle Lovett)
Nobody Knows Me (Lyle Lovett)
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I talk with guitarist Mike Seal about his incredible musical journey. We dig into his early influences, the development of his unique fingerstyle technique, and his collaborations with some truly legendary musicians. Mike reflects on the impact of his teachers on his growth, the value of music education, and how music festivals have helped shape his sense of community and connection.
He also shares his personal life, including his incredibly talented wife, and the joys and challenges of life as a touring musician. We talk about what it’s like to transition from sideman to bandleader, the importance of staying authentic as an artist, and the excitement surrounding his current and upcoming projects.
This conversation highlights the deep relationships and growth that happen through music, and I came away inspired by Mike’s humility, insight, and passion for the craft. I’m thrilled to share this one with you.
Music from the Episode:
Trumpets (Jeff Sipe Trio)
Naima (Jeff Sipe Trio)
While My Guitar Gently Weeps (Jerry Douglas Band)
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I talk again with my musical brother, the amazing Tim Hamilton. Tim's had such a rich and fascinating career that we absolutely needed to talk again. If you haven't heard the first interview with him, I encourage you to go back and listen.
In this follow-up, Tim shares what life’s been like recently, including the highs and challenges of a packed summer gig schedule. We dig into the evolution of country music, especially the return of more traditional sounds in the '90s, and Tim reflects on how crucial it is for a musician to have a signature sound.
We also talk about his time playing in the house band at Cowboys in Kennesaw, Georgia—some great stories there—along with the memorable artists he worked with and the curveballs that come with live shows. From starstruck moments to behind-the-scenes stories about the camaraderie among musicians, Tim brings warmth, wisdom, and a lot of heart.
We also reflect on the lessons we’ve learned from seasoned players, the changes in the Nashville scene, and just how much community and connection shape our lives in music.
I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed catching up with Tim. This one’s packed with stories, insights, and plenty of laughs.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
In this episode, I catch up with my longtime friend Dylan Rosson for a conversation full of music and memories.
Dylan and I reflect on the evolving country music scene, the challenges and rewards of life on the road, and how our influences have guided us through it all. Dylan shares his work as a session musician, including his time touring with Scotty McCreery, and shares what he's learned about collaboration, harmony, and production.
Whether we’re trading stories or diving deep into the creative process, this episode is filled with humor, nostalgia, and insight. It’s a celebration of friendship, growth, and the music that keeps us moving forward.
Music from the Episode:
Thank you for listening! If you have any feedback or questions, or just want to say hi, reach out at info@thebandwichtapes.com — and please help spread the word about the show!
Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with Michael Watson to explore the life of a working musician. We dive into the challenges, influences, and experiences that shape a career in music, from the struggles of touring to the evolution of legendary groups like the Drifters and the Platters.
Michael shares vivid stories from his time on the road with the Platters, including unforgettable performances at iconic venues like Niagara Falls and Laughlin, Nevada. He talks about the difficulty of performing while sick, how a small local gig blossomed into a beloved community event, and the constant learning and adapting required to grow as a performer.
We also reflect on the deep joy of live performance and the camaraderie that develops among musicians. Michael recounts hilarious onstage mishaps, the importance of shifting musical styles on the fly, and what it's like to play alongside iconic artists. The conversation highlights the shared bond that makes playing music live a rewarding experience.
Later, we explore the nuances of vocal technique, natural ability, and the physical demands of performing. We also discuss the dynamics of working in agency bands, the pressures of constant gigging, and how musicians make decisions to protect their health as they age. This is a rich, honest look at the realities of life in music and what keeps us coming back to it.
Thank you for listening! If you have any feedback, questions, or want to say hi, contact info@thebandwichtapes.com. Please help spread the word about the show!
Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I catch up with the high-octane, genre-bending band Big Love Car Wash for a lively conversation about their sound, their story, and their musical chemistry.
Big Love Car Wash blends funk, rock, soul, and jazz into a groove-driven experience that’s equal parts throwback and fresh. Known for their tight rhythm section, soulful vocals, and a live show that gets crowds moving, the band brings a sense of joy and spontaneity to everything they do. Whether they’re jamming onstage or laying down tracks in the studio, their music is rooted in friendship, freedom, and big-hearted expression.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves bands that break the mold and serve up serious musicianship with a sense of fun.
Music from the Episode:
Janna - Big Love Car Wash
Learn more about Big Love Car Wash at biglovecarwash.com
Thank you for listening! If you have any feedback or questions, or just want to say hi, reach out at info@thebandwichtapes.com — and please help spread the word about the show!
Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with renowned bassist, composer, and producer Viktor Krauss for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about his musical path, creative process, and the many collaborations that have shaped his career.
Viktor Krauss is one of contemporary music's most versatile and respected bassists. He’s played with an astonishing array of artists, including Lyle Lovett, Bill Frisell, Robert Plant, and Alison Krauss. Equally at home in jazz, folk, rock, and beyond, Viktor brings a deep sense of melody, texture, and feel to everything he touches. In addition to his work as a sideman, he’s also released his solo projects, blending cinematic soundscapes with expressive songwriting.
This episode is a must-listen for fans of genre-defying musicianship, creative collaboration, and the subtle art of supporting a song from the low end.
Music from the Episode:
For A Good Time (Viktor Krauss)
Pipe Down (Bill Frisell)
Big Shoe (Bill Frisell)
Penguins (Lyle Lovett)
Grit Lap (Viktor Krauss)
Big Log (Viktor Krauss)
Pinky Ring (Viktor Krauss)
Shine On You Crazy Diamond (Viktor Krauss)
Trouble With My Lover (Robert Plant & Alison Krauss)
Learn more about Viktor and his work at viktorkrauss.com.
Thank you for listening! If you have any feedback or questions, or just want to say hi, reach out at info@thebandwichtapes.com — and please help spread the word about the show!
Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with the remarkably versatile vocalist and musician David Blamires for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about his global musical journey, his time with the Pat Metheny Group, and his solo career.
Born in the UK and raised in Canada, David’s voice has left its mark across genres. He’s perhaps best known for his work with the Pat Metheny Group, where his signature harmonies and unmistakable tone helped shape the sound of albums like Still Life (Talking) and We Live Here. But his career spans far beyond that, including an extensive resume as a session singer, live performer, and solo artist.
Whether you're curious about the world of studio vocals, the dynamics of life on the road, or the creative spark that brings voices together in harmony, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the art and craft of a world-class musician.
Music from the Episode:
Minuano (Six-Eight) (Pat Metheny Group)
Last Train Home (Pat Metheny Group)
Across the Sky (Pat Metheny Group)
Follow Me (Pat Metheny Group)
Something to Remind You (Pat Metheny Group)
Deep is the Midnight Sea (David Blamires Group)
This Time (David Blamires)
With Every Passing Day (David Blamires)
Learn more about David and his work at davidblamires.com.
Thank you for listening! If you have any feedback or questions, or just want to say hi, reach out at info@thebandwichtapes.com — and please help spread the word about the show!
Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy
In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with world-renowned drummer Tom Brechtlein for an in-depth conversation about his life behind the kit, his musical influences, and the legendary artists he’s worked with.
Tom Brechtlein is best known for his powerful, precise drumming and dynamic performances across jazz, rock, and fusion. He’s toured and recorded with incredible musicians, including Chick Corea, Wayne Shorter, Robben Ford, Jean-Luc Ponty, and Kenny Loggins. Whether driving a high-energy fusion groove or delivering subtle textures in a ballad, Tom’s approach to drumming is thoughtful, expressive, and always musical.
This episode is a must-listen for music fans and aspiring drummers alike — Tom shares stories from the road, insights on developing your voice as a player, and reflections on what it means to keep growing as a musician over the decades.
Music from the Episode:
The Golden Dawn (Chick Corea)
Condition Red (Wayne Shorter)
The Brother (Robben Ford & the Blue Line)
Learn more about Tom and his work at tombrechtlein.com.
Thank you for listening! If you have any feedback or questions, or just want to say hi, reach out at info@thebandwichtapes.com — and please help spread the word about the show!
Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy
In this special re-release of The Bandwich Tapes, we revisit my conversation with Brian Jarrett, a remarkable musician, friend, and human being who recently lost his courageous battle with cancer. Brian’s passion, kindness, and unwavering love for music and community left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.
Before we revisit this interview, I sit down with Mark Mundy to share memories of Brian—his infectious energy, his generosity, and the many ways he enriched our lives. This conversation is a tribute to the joy he brought into the world and a reminder of the lasting impact of his spirit.
Brian may no longer be with us physically, but his music, laughter, and legacy will continue to resonate. We love you, Brian, and we will miss you dearly.
To prepare for the next season of The Bandwich Tapes, I am re-releasing some of my favorite episodes.
In this riveting episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I had the pleasure of talking with the supremely talented musician Howard Levy. Renowned for his virtuosity on both the harmonica and piano, Howard has rightfully earned his place as one of the world's most respected and sought-after musicians.
During our conversation, Howard took us on a fascinating journey through his musical odyssey, sharing anecdotes and insights that offered a glimpse into the depth of his artistry. He told us tales of his early musical explorations, recounting how his passion for music ignited at a tender age and led him to pick up the harmonica.
A true pioneer in his field, Howard delved into the innovative techniques he has developed over the years, including his groundbreaking approach to playing the harmonica known as "overblowing." Through live demonstrations, Howard showcased the remarkable capabilities of this technique, pushing the boundaries of what the instrument can achieve and creating a sound that is uniquely his own.
Our conversation also ventured into Howard's illustrious career, from his collaborations with luminaries like Béla Fleck and the Flecktones to his work with the exceptional Trio Globo and his current project, The Howard Levy Four. We even touched upon our shared experience of recording a song by the talented Steven Fink, adding another layer of connection to our dialogue.
Beyond his remarkable performances, Howard's passion for teaching and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians shone brightly. He spoke eloquently about his book, "Rhythms of the Breath," and his joy in sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring musicians.
Throughout the episode, Howard's infectious enthusiasm and genuine love for music were palpable, infusing our conversation with warmth and inspiration. It was truly a privilege to delve into Howard Levy's musical world, and I have no doubt that listeners will be captivated by his talent, wisdom, and boundless creativity.
For more information about Howard Levy and his upcoming projects, visit his website at www.levyland.com.
Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please get in touch with me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.
The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.
