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Car Con Carne

James VanOsdol

Hyperlocal Chicago podcast hosted by long-running local media personality James VanOsdol. Guests include musicians, restaurateurs, brewers, authors, actors and interesting persons of note. More often than not, the interviews happen in James's car.

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#1147
Wednesday · 32 min
Photographing the women who shaped modern music: Bobby Talamine (Episode 1147)
Veteran concert photographer Bobby Talamine talks about his excellent new book, Femmes: At Full Volume, a photo collection celebrating women who have shaped modern music. Bobby and James talk about the art of visual storytelling, the power of physical books in an increasingly digital world, and the stories behind some of the book's standout images. From enduring a torrential downpour to capture Lorde at Lollapalooza to shooting electric moments with artists like PJ Harvey, Karen O, Brittany Howard, Peaches, and Mavis Staples, Bobby breaks down what it takes to catch lightning in a bottle through the lens. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1146
Monday · 29 min
Kelsey Montanez pivots from solo star to new band, CHANNELS (Episode 1146)
Chicago singer-songwriter Kelsey Montanez makes her first appearance on the podcast, to introduce her new alt-rock project: CHANNELS. Bandmates Hannah and Jesse joined in for a chat outside an Evanston Starbucks. Discussed in this episode: Kelsey talks through her evolution as an artist How CHANNELS came together through shared musical chemistry, philosophical debates, and a mutual love of tarot The story behind Kelsey's moody single "Big Machine" and her unconventional songwriting methods Drawing inspiration from bands like Interpol, Queens of the Stone Age, and Hole Upcoming singles including "Isolation," studio sessions, and live shows at venues like Cubby Bear Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their many happy clients.
#1145
September 24 · 21 min
Cops, TikTok, and community: Inside Tanner Dane's grassroots Chicago takeover (Episode 1145)
Tanner Dane hops in the car while parked in Wicker Park to talk about turning a canceled summer tour into one of the most exciting grassroots live music movements in Chicago. After his initial plans fell through, Tanner took matters into his own hands, launching spontaneous, pop-up Tuesday night acoustic performances along the Chicago lakefront, eventually settling in near the AIDS Garden. What began as an effort to get back to the basics exploded across TikTok, drawing massive crowds, the attention of Chicago Park District officials, and even an encounter with the police that ended with a citation, a complimentary officer, and pro-bono lawyers stepping in to help. In this episode, we cover: Building community through lakefront pop-ups and leveraging TikTok to connect directly with fans. Transitioning from his band Hollyy into a deeply personal solo project. Collaborating with Chicago rock veterans Scott Lucas (Local H), Blake Smith (Fig Dish, Caviar), and drummer Jason Batchko. The inspiration behind the post-breakup single "Hardest Lessons Learned". Growing up on Stax, Motown, and classic soul records. Securing a major label record deal and gearing up for his first ticketed, headline hometown show at Schubas on November 5. Sponsor Spotlight: Exploding House Printing Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery, and other merchandising needs. They are local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. If you are a band, an artist, a small business, or a brand, they can handle your t-shirts and merch from top to bottom. Jonathan at Exploding House has been screen printing for decades and brings boutique print shop quality at large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or visit explodinghouseprinting.com to request a quote.
#1144
September 19 · 28 min
I Ya Toyah talks creativity, mental health, and music (Episode 1144)
Sitting in the car outside a Mount Prospect Dunkin', James catches up with solo electronic/industrial artist I Ya Toyah to discuss music, tour survival, and staying grounded in an image-obsessed world. Key Episode Highlights Tour Discipline & Balance: I Ya Toyah explains her strict approach to touring, going completely sober on the road to protect her stamina and vocal health, while contrasting it with her everyday love for sweets and evening cocktails. The Message Behind "Closer": She breaks down why she covered Nine Inch Nails' iconic song. Rather than just paying homage, she used it to confront modern culture's obsession with perfection, metrics, surveillance, and how people lose themselves trying to measure up. The "One-Woman Army" Ethos: I Ya Toyah discusses running her independent label, Famme Fatale Records, sharing why maintaining full creative control is essential to her authenticity, avoiding label formulas designed to pump out repetitive trends. Mental Health & The Bracelet Project: Addressing how creative work serves as therapy, I Ya Toyah details her direct suicide prevention outreach. She creates and personally mails free suicide prevention bracelets stamped with the 988 lifeline to fans, sharing stories of how these tokens have sparked life-saving conversations in public. What's Next: Looking ahead to a winter UK tour, I Ya Toyah reveals details about her upcoming single "White Walls" (dropping October 10 for World Mental Health Day), which concludes a thematic single trilogy leading into a new spoken-word and poetry-infused EP. Exploding House Printing is here for all your screen printing, embroidery, and merch needs. Headquartered locally in Hermosa, Jonathan has been delivering boutique print shop quality at large print shop prices for decades, serving bands, brands, and small businesses alike. Find them on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse or visit exploding house printing dot com for a quote.
September 13 · 58 min
Are we living through another 90s comics crash? Market thoughts w/ Patrick Brower of Challengers Comics (Episode 1143)
Is the modern comic book market spiraling back into the speculator madness of the 1990s? Patrick Brower, co-owner of Chicago's award-winning Challengers Comics + Conversation in Bucktown, joins James in the car to break down today's comics retail landscape. Together, they dig into the explosion of variant covers, blind bags, and modern "what if" blockbusters like Absolute Batman. Patrick traces the structural shocks that reshaped the entire industry, from the collapse of Diamond Comic Distributors to the logistical hurdles comic shops face working with massive book distributors like Penguin Random House. They also discuss CGC grading obsession, the difference between modern readers and 90s-era investment collectors, and the unbeatable joy of digging through dollar bins for hidden gems. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Reach out to them to partner on your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. http://www.explodinghouseprinting.com
#1142
September 10 · 19 min
Setting the stage for the 2026 Illinois Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony (Episode 1142)
In this episode, Car Con Carne heads to Joliet for a special live conversation from inside the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 (9 W. Cass St.). Founder Ron Romero joins me to preview the 2026 Illinois Rock & Roll Museum Hall of Fame induction ceremony taking place Sunday, September 27, at the Harris Theater in Chicago. Ron breaks down the extensive public nomination and voting process, how the museum preserves and documents Illinois music history across all genres, and new initiatives like the upcoming Amplify Illinois project (which I agreed to help with). We dive into this year's stacked class of inductees and honorees, including Terri Hemmert, Plain White T's, Jim Peterik, Kevin Cronin, Koko Taylor, The Flock, The Boyzz, Curtis Mayfield, WDRV (The Drive), and Brunswick Records. Plus, Ron shares stories about the museum's roots, the all-star house band, and what fans can expect on induction night. Tickets and event details are available at roadtorock.org. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1141
September 9 · 16 min
The rapid and deserved rise of Dogs With Hats (Episode 1141)
For this episode, I caught up with Dogs With Hats founder/frontman Sam Shrier outside Beat Kitchen to talk about the band's rapid rise, creative evolution, and upcoming plans. Sam details how Dogs with Hats grew from a solo bedroom recording project into a tight, hard-touring unit, as well as the organic recording sessions at Palisade Studios for their debut EP Lampshades at the Party. We also get into the impact of their infectious song "Almost Famous," navigating major-label interest on DIY terms, and why staying committed to craft and full-length album cohesion matters far more than feeding the modern release algorithm. Dogs with Hats plays Beat Kitchen on November 12. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1140
August 25 · 21 min
Breakups and breakthrough songwriting moments - Savanna Ruth (Episode 1140)
I sat down with singer-songwriter Savanna Ruth outside Dunkin' Donuts over iced caffeinated beverages to talk about her forthcoming album, The Baseball Diaries. After years performing as Burr Oak, Savanna decided to wipe the slate clean and step into a new creative chapter under her own name. We talk about the breakthrough moment of writing "Bad Thoughts," turning the raw fallout of a major breakup into vulnerable and relatable songs, and why artists have to give themselves permission to change direction entirely. We also dive into what it was like working with co-producers Scott Lucas (Local H) and Blake Smith (Fig Dish, Caviar), alongside drummer Jason Batchko. Savanna breaks down how that powerhouse team pushed her to dig deeper, sharpen her lyrics, and deliver an unapologetic record. Plus, we get into the Jim Carroll inspiration behind the album title and why putting the full record out on vinyl via Easy Does It Records matters so much. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check them out at explodinghouseprinting.com!
#1139
August 20 · 23 min
The shapes of 'Wrath' - Zak and Alex of Bleached Cross (Episode 1139)
Chicago post-punk outfit Bleached Cross (Zak and Alex) joins James VanOsdol to break down their latest album, Wrath. Episode Highlights Radio Nostalgia & Cassette Tapes: Zak brings in his childhood box of handwritten cassette radio rips from late-'90s Q101 broadcasts, sharing early memories of recording tracks off the airwaves and attempting a fourth-grade talent show performance of Silverchair and 311. Origins & Evolution: The duo traces their history back to meeting in college, initially bonding over pop-punk, emo, and an Alkaline Trio cover set before steering into darker, more aggressive sonic territory. Dissecting Wrath: Alex and Zak detail the creative workflow behind key tracks like "Crucible" and "Thorn Crown," explaining how bass-driven foundations, layered guitars, and vocal hooks helped define the tone of the record. Featured Collaborations: Zak discusses the making of the track "Tomb," featuring guest vocals from Harlee of the Chicago band Bosses. Horror Influences & What's Ahead: The band dives into favorite horror cinema classics (including Hellraiser, The Thing, and Rosemary's Baby) and shares what's next as they balance tour dates, live sets, and early writing for future releases. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever: their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1138
August 10 · 31 min
Somebody put a Ramone in my podcast: Richie Ramone (Episode 1138)
Former Ramones drummer Richie Ramone joins the show at Beaumont's (2020 N. Halsted) in Chicago to talk about his Ramones days, live shows, solo albums, acting pursuits, and what keeps his creative sparks lit for him. Thanks to Beaumont's for the unbelievably good burgers and hospitality. Discussed in this episode: Joining the Ramones: Richie reflects on joining the band in 1983, navigating the group's mid-80s era, and writing iconic tracks like "Somebody Put Something in My Drink." Life on the Road & Leaving the Band: What led to his departure in 1987, including the infamous merchandise dispute and the realities of touring Europe in the pre-Euro era. Transition to Acting: How a chance encounter at a horror convention launched a second career in film, including recent projects like Deify and working alongside Clint Howard. The Legacy of Punk: Richie discusses why the Ramones' music remains timeless, connecting with generations of fans at conventions, and what true punk rock means to him. What's Next: Future touring plans, scoring films, and his dream of voicing an anime punk rock character. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1137
August 4 · 35 min
Arcada Theatre/Des Plaines Theatre owner Ron Onesti (Episode 1137)
In this episode of Car Con Carne, host James VanOsdol sits down with Ron Onesti of Onesti Entertainment (OShows.com). For decades, Ron has been a fixture of the Chicago-area music scene, booking hundreds of shows a year at the historic Arcada Theatre in St. Charles and transforming the century-old Des Plaines Theatre into an entertainment hub. James and Ron dive into: Saving Historic Venues: The stories behind reviving century-old local landmarks and turning them into bustling community centers. The Chicago Concert Business: Navigating the most competitive live music market in the country, radius clauses, and how personal relationships keep major acts coming back. The Full Experience: How Ron intertwines live rock, speakeasy culture, vintage pinball, and authentic Italian dining (including the new Rock 'N Ravioli) to give audiences a complete night out. What's Next: The upcoming centennial celebration of the Arcada Theatre, new projects on Harlem Avenue, and keeping the spirit of classic rock alive. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
August 1 · 20 min
Coyote Man is back and still (mostly) an instrumental band (Episode 1136)
In this episode of Car Con Carne, James VanOsdol catches up with Ian from Chicago post-rock/metal instrumental powerhouses Coyote Man. Parked outside Noon Whistle Brewery in Naperville where a record and comic book show was coincidentally (?) happening, they dive into the band's long-awaited new album, Prosthetic Memories. What's In This Episode: Breaking the Instrumental Rule: Discover the story behind "Faith in a Burning Room," the album's closing track featuring vocals (yes, vocals) from guest singer Chris. 5 Years in the Making: How Prosthetic Memories evolved over five years, blending heavy riffs, psychedelic soundscapes, and even 20-year-old unused ideas. Production: Bringing in producer Dan Klein to help sequence a seamless, cinematic "Pink Floyd-style" album experience. Finally on Vinyl: Why releasing this album on physical vinyl through Smashed Plastic makes this milestone release so special for the band. Catch Coyote Man Live! Album Release Show: August 21st at Liar's Club in Chicago Album Streaming: Available everywhere starting August 14th Car Con Carne is proudly brought to you by Exploding House Printing.
July 28 · 26 min
Chris Otepka reinvents own Troubled Hubble songs with Heligoats (Episode 1135)
Chris Otepka of Heligoats joins me to talk about Neat New Monuments, a new album reimagining songs from Troubled Hubble's 20-year-old record, Making Beds in a Burning House. In this interview, Chris breaks down: The origin of Neat New Monuments: How a vinyl reissue proposal from Foreign Leisure Records prompted him to pause his new Heligoats project, relearn his older material, and record new versions of the songs. Recording in Elburn, Illinois: Working with engineer Mark Walker and bringing in guest musicians with connections to the songs.. Track-by-track changes: Reworking songs including "I See Molecules," "14,000 Things…," "Jackpot Stampede Deluxe," "Safe and Sound," and "Bees." Craft and perspective: Taking poetry classes with Buddy Wakefield, reflecting on how his connection to his lyrics has evolved over two decades, and stepping back from modern tech connectivity. Release show and future plans: Playing the album release show at Kiss the Sky Records in Batavia and preparing for upcoming Heligoats recordings and tours. Chris is a songwriting treasure, and these new versions are well worth a listen (if not an outright purchase of the vinyl version of the LP)! Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Support them (and do your brand a favor) by visiting explodinghouseprinting.com!
#1134
July 25 · 25 min
In praise of 'slut rock' - Naked Brunch at Rattleback (Episode 1134)
This episode was recorded in front of Rattleback Records in Andersonville with Naked Brunch lead singer Michael Hanna and Rattleback Records owner Paul Ruffino. Topics discussed: Naked Brunch's origins via Craigslist and their self-described "slut rock" sound. The band's recent 12-inch vinyl release on Rattleback Records featuring the tracks "Kiddie Pool" and "Humanoid". Remixes on the 12-inch release by Chicago house music pioneer Ralphi Rosario and jazz trombonist/DJ Emma Blau (Tromblau). The economics and creative mission behind running an independent boutique record label. Rattleback Records' new physical print zine, RPM, and its included flexi-disc releases. Upcoming live performances and music development for Naked Brunch. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1133
July 16 · 31 min
Josh Joplin celebrates 'Useful Music' anniversary as a Chicago resident (Episode 1133)
Singer/songwriter Josh Joplin sits down to talk about the silver anniversary of his 2001 album, Useful Music. The silver anniversary finds Josh's breakthrough pressed onto handsome vinyl alongside the digital release of "Useful Music (The Silver Anniversary Sessions)," a warts-and-all revisiting of the album's creation. Beyond the Useful Music reminiscence, Josh dives into his most recent album, Gap Year (stylized as GpYr). He shares the personal evolution behind its tracklist, focusing on the definitive mission statement of "Colored Copies", the resilience found within "Predator and Prey", and the full-circle emotional realization of "Before the Light Takes Us," a standout track featuring beautifully tracked backing vocals by his daughter. Josh also talks about what led him to relocate to Chicago in recent years, and how the adjustment has affected him creatively and motivated him professionally. Catch Josh Joplin live at The Hideout for a special matinee show on October 17th! Support Our Sponsors Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here's why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They've worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante's Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he's doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1132
July 3 · 31 min
Music journalist Selena Fragassi (Episode 1132)
Selena Fragassi has built an extensive career in music journalism, writing for publications like the Sun-Times and Spin, and authoring seven music biographies. On this episode, she jumps in the car to discuss her work across multiple platforms. During the chat, we talk about what makes a live show "good." Selena also shares what it's like to navigate the modern landscape of music journalism, as well as what drives journalists. And in case you're an aspiring music writer, she also shares solid tips on how to get going. Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Headquartered in the heart of Hermosa, they offer boutique print shop quality at large print shop prices for bands, brands, and small businesses. Check out their work on Instagram @explodinghouse or visit explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote.
#1131
June 17 · 7 min
Taste of Randolph preview - OK Cool (Episode 1131)
The last time James checked in with OK Cool, it was during the pandemic, and they were just faces on a screen. Now, they finally meet in vivid 3D at HIDE+SEEK on Randolph Street ahead of the band's Sunday performance at the 29th annual Taste of Randolph! Haley and Bridget reflect on their creative output since 2021, including the release of two EPs (Surrealist and Fawn) and their 2025 full-length LP, Chitchat. They also break down the meaning behind the catchy, residency-taking track "Jeans," reveal the Borat movie quote behind their "Wawwoowewa" music video, and share the exciting news that they have officially started tracking their next record. Special Thanks to Our Sponsor Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery, and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1126
June 17 · 9 min· Video
Taste of Randolph preview - Action/Adventure (Episode 1130)
Years in the making, Chicago band Action/Adventure joins Car Con Carne ahead of their upcoming performance on the West Stage at the 29th annual Taste of Randolph! Recorded at the wonderful HIDE+SEEK on Randolph, the band talks about their masterful album Ever After, the transition from the remote, high-pressure writing process of Imposter Syndrome, and the realities of life on the road. Plus, they dive into the unique dynamics of their dual-vocal delivery and reveal that writing for their next record is already officially underway. ## Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery, and other merchandising needs. Check out their work on Instagram at @explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1129
June 17 · 9 min
Taste of Randolph preview - Julie Darling (Episode 1129)
From Hide+Seek (838 W. Randolph Street), James VanOsdol sits down with Julie Darling, the President of the West Loop Community Organization. With the 29th annual Taste of Randolph just days away, Julie shares an insider's look at what it takes to bring the massive, three-day street festival to life. In this episode, Julie previews the event's culinary focal points and highlights some incredible new festival additions. She also addresses the major structural shifts for this year's event, including the decision to completely eliminate the suggested gate donation in favor of a 50/50 cash raffle, and hints at some highly anticipated volunteer bars run by Chicago for Chicagoans and Double Door Rocks. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing, here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.
#1127
June 17 · 11 min
Taste of Randolph preview - Gene Farris (Episode 1127)
From Hide+Seek (838 W. Randolph), James VanOsdol sits down with a true Chicago treasure and underground legend, house music icon Gene Farris. With a career spanning more than three decades, Gene is set to close out the East Stage on Friday night at the upcoming 29th annual Taste of Randolph. In this episode, Gene discusses his brand-new single, "This is the World", his aggressive creative mission to release a new track every month, and how he keeps his music current by staying open to learning from the generations that follow him. He also dives deep into the rich history and unmatched talent pool of the Chicago house scene, and shares how his label, Farris Wheel Recordings, has been breaking new artists and providing a platform for independent music since 1998. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing, here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They're local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients.

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