CORE

Code Zero Radio's Fox Cities Core! Broadcasting live from Appleton, Wisconsin , this episode features two forces in the local arts scene: comedian Kristin Lytie and musician Holly Trasti of Holly & the Nice Lions! In this packed episode, Kristin Lytie dives into her role organizing the comedy portion of the GBUFO Invasion Fest 2025 , discussing the unique challenge of bringing stand-up comedy into a music festival space, particularly the need for seating and closer crowds. She shares insights from curating a lineup of national comedians like JT Haversat, Matt Arlotto Martin, Shonda Sung, and Shannon Norman. Kristin also reflects on her past experience performing comedy at the legendary Warped Tour , detailing the perks like free shoes and golf cart rides , and shares excitement about her upcoming opening set for comedian Brian Posehn this September. Learn about the success of her comedy album "Disassociation Vacation," which hit number one on iTunes , and her zine "Uniontown". Kristin also discusses the nuances of comedy, including navigating dark humor with different crowds and the distinctions between hosting and featuring sets.Holly Trasti joins the conversation to discuss Holly & the Nice Lions' recently completed album, which they recorded in New Mexico with acclaimed producer Patrick Haight. Holly also gives us an update on the animated movie project she's co-directing, associate producing, and lead voice acting in , sharing incredible stories of working with stars like Christina Ricci , Sheryl Lee , Louis Gossett Jr., and Ed Asner. Plus, find out what it was like recording a song for the movie's soundtrack with her biggest musical influence, Corin Tucker of Sleater-Kinney, and legendary producer John Goodmanson. Kristin and Holly also reminisce about their over 20-year friendship, which began in women's studies at UW , and discuss the GBUFO Invasion Fest's unique in-person ticket sales at local record stores. They touch on the energy of Holly & the Nice Lions' music, describing it as "loud," "energetic," "art rock, post-punk" , and share insights on what it takes to be a working musician and comedian today, emphasizing the importance of community and authenticity.#KristinLytie #HollyTrasti #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #GBUFOInvasionFest #WarpedTour #BrianPosehn #HollyAndTheNiceLions #Comedy #Music #NewAlbum #GreenBayWI #AppletonWI #LiveMusic #Podcast #RadioInterview #Milwaukee #Madison #MusicFestival #ComedyShow #FoxCities #WisconsinMusic

Join us live from our studio in Appleton, Wisconsin, as we dive deep with Seasaw, the fantastic indie-rock duo from Madison! Meg and Eve of Seasaw chat about their latest album, "Projecting," and share the challenges of having similar names and mannerisms! They also talk about their recent visit to Appleton's Bowl91 – and yes, it was delicious!In this interview, you'll discover:- Their 15-Year Journey: Hear how Meg convinced Eve to form Seasaw back in 2010, starting with CocoRosie covers at a coffee shop in Freeport, Illinois, and evolving from folk to their current indie-rock sound.- "Projecting" & The COVID Era: Learn about the unique, three-year process of creating their album "Projecting," much of it recorded remotely during the pandemic, and how they balanced heavier themes with their signature bouncy, effervescent music.- The "Dial Me Up" Secret: Get the inside scoop on how a dial-up modem sound effect became the foundation for their track "Dial Me Up" and the creative process behind its fun, '90s-inspired music video directed by Nate Chapelle.- The Power of Partnership: Understand how their complementary skills (Eve's art mind, Meg's marketing background) drive their DIY approach and how their strong trust has been essential through all the ups and downs.- Behind the Music Videos: A look at their favorite music videos, including the messy but memorable "Ex-Girlfriend" and the incredibly creative, handmade "Godzilla" costume!- The Madison & Appleton Scenes: Their thoughts on the evolving Madison music scene (shout out to new venues like Atwood Music Hall!) and their positive experiences playing in Appleton, including at Appleton Beer Factory and Stone Arch Brewpub.- Touring & The Future: Hear about the challenges of balancing full-time jobs with touring, their furthest shows (Brooklyn! Austin!), and why they're pouring energy into their next album, which will feature a live drummer for a "beefier" sound.- The "Seasaw" Name & The "Death Clause": Discover the deeper meaning behind their band name and why it perfectly describes their balancing act, plus the hilarious "death clause" that keeps them together!🔔 SUBSCRIBE to Code Zero Radio for more exclusive interviews and local music content! #Seasaw #IndieRock #MadisonMusic #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #WCZR #AppletonWI #NewAlbum #Projecting #BandInterview #MusicHistory #DIYMusic #WisconsinMusic #FoxRiverHouse #LiveMusic

Join us for a candid conversation with Tony from Pudge as he dives deep into the band's journey, the evolution of their sound, and his unique philosophy on what makes a live performance truly exciting.In this interview, Tony opens up about:The Imposter Syndrome: How Pudge felt like outsiders and battled self-doubt in their early days, realizing only years later that authenticity (and longevity!) wins.The "Pudge Sound": Despite genre comparisons (Weezer, Cheap Trick), Tony shares his take on how Pudge has maintained their distinct style and the journey to embracing who they are as a band.The Mile of Music Experience: A raw look at the band's early struggles to be part of the festival, the anxiety of selection, and the often-humorous lengths they went to just to "be a part of it.The "Danger" Factor: Tony expands on the idea that great bands need a little "danger" in their music – that unpredictable edge that truly engages an audience, and why many talented artists might lack this crucial element.The State of Local Music: A critical (and often humorous) take on local music trends, from the "Americana" and "Emo" eras to the rise of "SALMs" (self-absorbed local musicians).The Future of Pudge: Get an update on their new songs, the bittersweet process of moving forward after loss, and how they're navigating playing as a four-piece with new members joining their lineup for upcoming shows like Mile of Music and Oktoberfest.Vinyl vs. CDs: Tony's thoughts on the vinyl resurgence, his surprising return to CDs, and the ever-changing landscape of music consumption.Ode to Elder Statesmen: A heartfelt appreciation for long-time local musicians like Frank Anderson, who continue to embody the spirit of rock in the Fox Cities.Don't miss this insightful and entertaining discussion with a true veteran of the Fox Cities music scene!0:00 Imposter Syndrome & Enduring as a Band02:45 The Pudge Sound: Comparisons & Identity06:20 Mile of Music: Early Struggles & Desperation13:05 Why Bands Need "Danger"19:30 Local Music Scene & The "PSALMs"25:00 Pudge's Future: New Songs & Lineup Changes30:15 Vinyl vs. CDs & Music Consumption34:00 Respect for Long-Time Musicians38:30 Best Live Shows & Joining Other Bands#Pudge #TonyFromPudge #MusicInterview #FoxCitiesMusic #MileOfMusic #LocalMusic #BandLife #MusicianInterview #AppletonWI #MusicIndustry #LiveMusic #BandDynamics #ImposterSyndrome #Vinyl #CDs #CodeZeroRadio #FoxCitiesCore

Broadcasting live from our studio in Appleton, Wisconsin, we sit down with the Fox Cities treasure Frank Anderson—filmmaker, musician, and historian—for a fun conversation on Fox Cities Core!Frank shares his unique perspectives on music, life, and the arts scene, featuring:A Special Guest: Frank's son's dog, who makes a special appearance and offers a humorous glimpse into the challenges of babysitting a heat-averse rescue dog.Zebra Mussel's "Mix-Proof" Philosophy: As a member of the Fox Cities-based band Zebra Mussel, Frank dives into their unconventional approach: no lyrics, no microphones, just pure, unadulterated sound driven by big amps. Hear why he believes "real music" needs to be felt and experienced live, and why in-ear monitors signify the "death of bands." Don't miss their next show in August!The True Meaning of "Rocking": Frank vehemently argues that "rocking" isn't a genre, but an attitude—it's how you play, not what you play. He champions the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra, proclaiming they "rock" with immense heart and emotion, especially after a powerful performance of Mahler's second. He critiques "smoothness" and "sappy lyrics," urging musicians to keep music alive and impactful.New Musical Ventures: Get an exclusive peek into Frank's latest projects, including a collaboration with Amos (Crutch of Memory) on a new vinyl release for Hotline TNT, featuring his steel guitar (an iconic instrument invented right here in Wisconsin!). Plus, hear about his plans for a new solo album, including his unique interpretation of Paw's "Jesse."Houdini, Hardeen, & Debunking the Supernatural: As a keen historian, Frank shares insights into the lives of Harry Houdini and his lesser-known but equally talented brother, Theo (Hardeen), who had roots in Appleton. Discover their contrasting personalities and why Houdini's legacy as a debunker of fake supernatural phenomena is more relevant than ever today. Frank even shares a personal anecdote about levitating a table at a Houdini exhibit!The State of Style in Music: In a call-in segment, Frank and listener Drew discuss the need for boldness and individuality in the local music scene. They challenge bands to break from convention, incorporate "style points," and amaze audiences with unique performances, arguing against watered-down acts and the lack of stylistic flair in much of today's Americana.This interview is packed with wit, wisdom, and unfiltered opinions from one of the Fox Cities' most compelling figures. Tune in to hear why Frank Anderson believes music should always be alive!#FrankAnderson #FoxCitiesCore #ZebraMussel #LiveMusic #MusicPhilosophy #Houdini #Hardeen #PedalSteelGuitar #AppletonWI #WisconsinMusic #MusicHistory #BehindTheMusic #Interview #NoMicrophones #RockAndRoll #Debunking #codezeroradio #foxcitiescore

Join us on Fox Cities Core for an inspiring conversation with Appleton musician Isiah Driessen! He shares his unconventional journey into music, starting at 27 to avoid the "27 club," and how taking vocal lessons sparked a passion that led to a full-blown career.In this interview, Isaiah dives deep into:His Musical Evolution: From early saxophone and guitar dabbles, through his folk duo Salmon Run (and a hilariously disastrous gig story!), to his current exciting projects.Isaiah and the New People: Get the exclusive details on his brand new band project! He reveals the collaborative recording process with members of The Tunes at the legendary Rock Garden Studio, the quick turnaround (7 songs in 6 hours!), and his plans for a unique video series for each track.The Art of Promotion: Discover Isaiah's refreshingly personal approach to promoting his music, including going door-to-door with flyers and his belief in the power of video to capture attention.The Cedars Festival: Learn all about the two-day music festival he hosts annually in Little Chute (September 12th & 13th!) right in his backyard – a renovated historic home overlooking the river! He shares this year's impressive lineup, featuring Feed the Dog, Joseph Huber, Loose Shields, and Valley Fox, and his vision for bringing diverse music to the Fox Valley.Behind the Scenes: Insights into his songwriting process (mostly personal experiences), his positive Mile of Music experiences, and his thoughts on the closing of Rock Garden Studio and its impact on the local scene.Connect with Isaiah and learn about his journey from "accidental musician" to a driving force in the Fox Valley music community!Watch the full interview to hear it all!Find Isaiah's Music & Projects:Website: Isaiah and the New Peopleisaiahnewpeople.comThe Cedars Festival Tickets: thecedarspro.comPast Music: Salmon Run music is available on Spotify.#Isaiah #IsaiahAndTheNewPeople #TheCedarsFestival #NewMusic #RockGardenStudio #FoxCitiesCore #WCZR #CodeZeroRadio #AppletonMusic #LittleChute #WisconsinMusic #MusicInterview #FestivalFounder #SingerSongwriter #SupportLocalMusic