MusicMusic Interviews

CORE

Andy McNamara

Core is a weekly interview and music show on Code Zero Radio WCZR. The show airs live Saturday mornings from 9-10am CST. We focus on artists from the Fox Cities area of Wisconsin. You can listen to the show live by searching "Code Zero Radio" in the TuneIn app.

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Sunday · 49 min
Scissor Kicks' Aaron Atchison Talks Fond du Lac Punk Fest | Code Zero Radio's Fox Cities Core
Scissor Kicks guitarist and singer Aaron joins Andy McNamara on Fox Cities Core to talk about the Fond du Lac pop punk band, its long hiatus, and the punk fest he's booking at The Passenger Lounge on Saturday, November 14.Aaron breaks down the band's history since 2013, from a first show in his basement to winning the Fond du Lac County Fair Battle of the Bands in 2016, then a break from 2018 to 2023 and a lineup shuffle that left him on guitar and vocals with Adam on bass and Nate on drums. He also gets into his Screeching Weasel influence, the story of his Screeching Weasel prototype guitar, writing for IDFC and The Malones, and the story behind the band's very long EP title.The conversation also covers the state of the Fond du Lac punk scene, years of house shows in his basement, and why he's moving the fest to a 240-capacity venue with out-of-state bands, 30-minute sets, and tickets at $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Bands mentioned include Wild Hamburger, Tight Wire, Flamingo Nosebleed, and Irish Sunglasses.Fox Cities Core is hosted by Andy McNamara on WCZR Code Zero Radio, an independent streaming rock station based in Appleton, Wisconsin. The show is the Fox Cities' connection to the region's live music scene, with artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.Catch Scissor Kicks and the fest at The Passenger Lounge in Fond du Lac, grab advance tickets through the venue's website, and find the band on Facebook. Subscribe for more Wisconsin music interviews, and follow Code Zero Radio for more from the Fox Cities scene.#ScissorKicks #PopPunk #PunkRock #FondDuLac #WisconsinPunk #PunkFest #PassengerLounge #ScreechingWeasel #LiveMusic #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #Appleton #WisconsinMusic #FoxCities
October 2 · 57 min
Wreck-It Ralph's Phil Johnston on Rally for the Valley | Fox Cities Core
Neenah native Phil Johnston, the Academy Award-nominated writer of Wreck-It Ralph and Zootopia and co-director of Ralph Breaks the Internet, joins Andy McNamara in the Code Zero Radio studio in Appleton, Wisconsin to talk about Rally for the Valley, the free benefit event in Menasha supporting Fox Cities neighbors still recovering from the storm.Phil explains how a phone call from his mom in Neenah turned into a day of live music, comedy, and community with help from his friend and Garbage drummer Butch Vig, Soul Asylum, and comedian Charlie Berens. He also covers event-day details: shuttles and parking, food vouchers for people who were impacted, a silent auction with Brewers and Packers items, a story-catching portrait booth at Menasha City Hall, and a live stream of the whole event.Then the conversation widens to Phil's career: growing up in Neenah and playing in a band, using a Marcus Theatres pass long after it expired, leaving TV journalism for Columbia film school, making Cedar Rapids with Ed Helms, and convincing John C. Reilly to voice Ralph. He also talks about the Fox Cities touches hidden in his films, working with David Byrne on The Twits, and the Wisconsin dark comedy he wants to direct next.Fox Cities Core is hosted by Andy McNamara on WCZR Code Zero Radio, an independent streaming rock station based in Appleton, WI. The show is the Fox Cities' connection to the region's live music scene, with artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.Subscribe for more Fox Cities and Wisconsin music, film, and community conversations, and follow Code Zero Radio to hear the show.#FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #PhilJohnston #RallyForTheValley #WreckItRalph #Zootopia #Neenah #Menasha #Appleton #FoxCities #WisconsinMusic #ButchVig #SoulAsylum #CharlieBerens #Wisconsin
September 27 · 56 min
Briscoe Talks Heat of July, Texas Roots & Life on the Road | Fox Cities Core
Andy McNamara spends a bit of time with Briscoe — Austin, Texas duo Philip Lupton and Truett Heintzelman — ahead of their show at Appleton Beer Factory, in the middle of a busy fall tour that's taken them through Milwaukee and Chicago on the way to Asheville, NC. The guys open up about how they first met as middle schoolers at summer camp (matching sandals and all), and the on-the-road disaster of showing up to a headline tour without a saxophone.They dig into the making of their ATO Records album Heat of July, produced by Grammy-nominated Brad Cook, including the story behind fan favorite "The Well" and the meaning behind the title track. Philip and Truett also talk about writing "Texas Flood" to honor the resilience of the Kerrville, TX community after the 2025 floods, the ongoing debate over releasing singles versus full-length albums in today's music industry, and what it was like to open for Dave Matthews Band at the Gorge in Washington State.Fox Cities Core is Andy McNamara's show on WCZR Code Zero Radio, an independent streaming rock station out of Appleton, Wisconsin — the Fox Cities' connection to the region's live music scene, with artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.Catch Briscoe tonight at Appleton Beer Factory, and hear the full conversation on Fox Cities Core, Code Zero Radio, Appleton, Wisconsin, Americana, folk-rock, Texas music.Subscribe for more Fox Cities Core interviews, and follow Code Zero Radio for the latest from the Fox Valley music scene.#Briscoe #HeatOfJuly #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #Appleton #WisconsinMusic #FoxCities #AmericanaMusic #FolkRock #TexasMusic #AppletonBeerFactory #ATORecords #BradCook #LiveMusic
September 25 · 30 min
Rally for the Valley: Butch Vig, Phil Johnston, Adrienne Palm & Alex Drossart | Fox Cities Core
A tornado hit the Fox Cities on July 27 — and this community is answering back with music, comedy, and giving. Andy McNamara talks with some of the team behind Rally for the Valley, a free benefit taking over downtown Menasha on Saturday, October 3rd from 2-10pm.In studio: Event Organizers Alex Drossart and Adrienne Palm. Calling in: Wisconsin legend and Garbage drummer/producer Butch Vig — and fellow Neenah native Phil Johnston, the Oscar-nominated writer behind Wreck-It Ralph and Zootopia, whose one text to an old friend snowballed this from a small event at a pizza parlor into a massive free block party.They talk through how the lineup came together (Soul Asylum, Freedy Johnston, Fountains of Wayne, Duke Erikson, LOLO, Hang Ten, Cory Chisel and more, with plenty of collaborative guest sets planned), why the event is free with ways to donate to three different organizations: LEAVEN, Greater Fox Cities Area Habitat for Humanity, and Pillars, and everything else on tap: storytelling booth for the History Museum, a live auction, Brewers mascots for the kids, and yes — a custom "Rally for the Valley" beer from Stone Arch.If you've got a story to share, want to volunteer, or just want to show up and support downtown Menasha, this episode is for you.Fox Cities Core airs on WCZR Code Zero Radio, an independent streaming rock station out of Appleton, Wisconsin, bringing you the artists, venues, and stories shaping the valley's music scene. Subscribe for more Fox Cities Core interviews, and tune in to Code Zero Radio for the show live.#RallyForTheValley #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #Appleton #WisconsinMusic #FoxCities #Menasha #ButchVig #PhilJohnston #SoulAsylum #TornadoRelief #FoxValleyStrong #LiveMusic #Wisconsin
September 12 · 38 min
Irish Fest of the Fox Cities 2026: Inside Look with Executive Director Mark Hudson
Irish Fest of the Fox Cities returns to Jones Park in Appleton, WI on September 18–19, 2026! On this episode of Fox Cities Core (Code Zero Radio), Mark Hudson — Executive Director of Irish Fest of the Fox Cities — joins Andy to break down everything happening at this year's festival.Mark talks ticket prices and the advance-sale deadline, the push to finally crack 5,000 attendees, this year's headlining lineup (Gaelic Storm, Skerryvore, The Drowsy Lads, The Bow Tides, The Conor Mallon Band, and Boxing Banjo), the Wee Ones kids' area, the Celtic Mass at St. Mary's, festival food, sponsors, and what it's really like running a two-day Irish festival 300+ days a year. Plus: a Guinness pour demo, favorite Irish beers and movies, and how to volunteer.🍀 Festival dates: September 18–19, 2026📍 Location: Jones Park, Appleton, Wisconsin🎟️ Tickets & info: IrishFestFoxCities.com🎙️ More Fox Cities Core: CodeZeroRadio.com#IrishFestFoxCities #AppletonWisconsin #FoxCitiesCore #IrishFestival #CelticMusic #GaelicStorm #Skerryvore #JonesPark #WisconsinEvents #IrishCulture
August 2 · 53 min
Descartes a Kant Interview: Theatrics, Steve Albini & Mile of Music
Descartes a Kant (DAK) — the theatrical rock band from Guadalajara, Mexico — joins Fox Cities Core on Code Zero Radio during their Mile of Music run in Appleton, WI. Band members Sandra, Memo, and Leo dig into the philosophy-inspired origin of their name, the wild theatrical concept behind their live show (choreography, and "the machine"), and the story behind recording with legendary producer Steve Albini on their album "Victims of Love Propaganda."In this interview, the band talks about:- Where the name "Descartes a Kant" actually comes from- Starting the band in 2001 as a school project inspired by riot grrrl bands- How the band's theatrical, costume-driven concept evolved album by album- Writing their album "After Destruction" through a lineup change, isolation, and grief- Recording on analog tape with Steve Albini and remembering his legacy- Getting vouched for by Mike Patton to play with Mr. Bungle- Sharing stages with Sonic Youth, the Melvins, St. Vincent, and Slayer's Dave Lombardo- How they get their massive live sound without traditional amps- Their first impressions of Appleton, Wisconsin — tornado damage, sound baths, and Wisconsin gifts- What's next for the band, including upcoming UK, Mexico, and US tour datesDescartes a Kant played Mile of Music in Appleton, Wisconsin. Catch their music videos, including their Steve Albini recording sessions, on their YouTube channel.Fox Cities Core is Code Zero Radio's show covering the Fox Cities and Wisconsin live music scene through artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.Subscribe for more Fox Cities Core interviews with touring and local artists.#DescartesaKant #DAK #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #MileOfMusic #AppletonWisconsin #SteveAlbini #MikePatton #MexicanRockBand #TheatricalRock #IndieRock #TouringMusicians #GuadalajaraMusic #LiveMusic #AfterDestruction
August 2 · 45 min
Brett Newski Talks New Album, Fatherhood & DIY Music | Fox Cities Core
Brett Newski returns to Fox Cities Core on Code Zero Radio for a wide-ranging conversation ahead of his Mile of Music sets in Appleton, WI. Known for a mix of folk grunge, garage rock, old country, and 90s alt-Americana, Brett dives into his new album "Have a Thing, Miss Your Moment (Wait for the Revival)," why he keeps music off Spotify and Amazon on principle, how fatherhood has reshaped his creative process, and the real economics of being a DIY touring musician in 2026.In this interview, Brett talks candidly about:- The story behind his new album title and cover art- Recording on vintage tape machines for a warmer, more human sound- Why he deliberately withholds music from streaming platforms- Building a 14,000-person email list from scratch, one show at a time- How record labels use bot farms and click farms to game algorithms- Fatherhood, burnout, and mental health on the road- Advice for young musicians navigating the modern music industry- Memories from past Mile of Music performances at Houdini Plaza- The end of his Dirt Road podcast and lessons on knowing when to quitFind his music, books, and vinyl at brettnewski.com.Fox Cities Core is Code Zero Radio's show covering the Fox Cities and Wisconsin live music scene through artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.Subscribe for more Fox Cities Core interviews with touring and local artists.
August 1 · 56 min
R-NØT Interview: DC Punk Rock Trio Talks Mile of Music 13 & Genre-Bending Sound | Fox Cities Core
Punk-inspired rock trio R-NØT made the trip from the D.C. area to Appleton, WI for their second year at Mile of Music, and they stopped by Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio to talk about it! The band has been turning heads with recent releases like "Sheep" and their newest single "K.I.S.S.," with more new music (including "Marmalade") already out and a lot more on the way. In this interview, R-NØT — Paul (guitar/vocals and primary songwriter), Chuck (bass/vocals), and Mikey (drums) — dig into the band's roots in the DC hardcore and punk scene, growing up on MTV in the 90s, and the reality behind DC's legendary 9:30 Club. They trace how each member found their instrument, how Mikey ended up joining the band in 2023 after years of separate paths through the Marine Corps, DJing, and DC's music scene, and how their genre-blurring sound — equal parts punk, grunge, and alt rock — keeps audiences guessing. The band also opens up about their debut album "Dumpster Fire," the massive backlog of unreleased songs behind it, their connection to legendary producer Steve Albini and DC's Inner Ear Studio, and their philosophy of scrapping the setlist and calling audibles live. Plus, find out the science-based story behind the name "R-NØT." This Fox Cities Core interview gives you the full story behind the band and a look at where they're headed next. Follow R-NØT: Find them on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for music videos, singles, and tour updates. More Fox Cities Core: Fox Cities Core is your source for interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews from the Fox Cities and Wisconsin regional live music scene, brought to you by WCZR Code Zero Radio.
August 1 · 48 min
Gold Steps Interview: Milwaukee Pop Punk Band Talks Mile of Music 13 & Touring | Fox Cities Core
Milwaukee pop punk band Gold Steps stopped by Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio during their first-ever Mile of Music appearance in Appleton, WI! Alternative Press has called them out as one of the artists reclaiming pop punk, and the band has toured with acts like Charlotte Sands and Stand Atlantic, played Warped Tour and Summerfest, and even performed in the legendary pool at The Rave in Milwaukee opening for The Used. In this interview, Gold Steps — vocalist/frontwoman Betty, guitarist and co-founder Zach, bassist Ryan, and drummer John — talk about how the band started back in 2016 in Austin, Texas, and how they named themselves after a Neck Deep song. They dig into the wild, nearly four-year journey behind their debut EP, going independent after their label dissolved, and the meaning behind their song "Narcissist." The band also opens up about life on tour (breakdowns, no A/C, and catching COVID in an RV), Betty's connection to Taylor Swift as a songwriting inspiration, and their new crowdfunding partnership with the Inertia Project to build a "Digital Tour Bus" fan community ahead of their September tour. They even perform an acoustic version of their new song live in the studio! Whether you caught Gold Steps at Mile of Music, the Bent Keg, or Fox River House, this Fox Cities Core interview gives you the full story on this hardworking Milwaukee band and where they're headed next. Follow Gold Steps: Find them on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok @goldstepsmusic More Fox Cities Core: Fox Cities Core is your source for interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews from the Fox Cities and Wisconsin regional live music scene, brought to you by WCZR Code Zero Radio.
August 1 · 49 min
Scorched Waves Interview: Indie Rock Band Talks Mile of Music 13 & New Sound | Fox Cities Core
Indie rock band Scorched Waves stopped by Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio for an in-depth interview during Mile of Music 13 in Appleton, WI! The Stevens Point, Wisconsin group — Tyler Armstrong (guitar), Finn Vaughn (bass), Tiernan Brinkman (lead vocals), and Jaron Chick (keys), with drummer Damien Kessler holding down the road — sat down to talk band history, songwriting, touring stories, and what's next for Scorched Waves.In this interview, Scorched Waves breaks down their evolution from a high school garage band into an energetic live act — from their earliest EP recorded in a bedroom, to their debut album "Televised Paradise," to 2024's "With a Smile," and the more melodic, dynamic direction they're taking on new music like "Sinners" and "Things Will Be Fine." They also dig into their collaborative songwriting process, their weekly practice routine (every Sunday since 2019!), wild tour stories from Denver to Nashville, an unexpected shoutout from actor Danny Trejo, and their love for Wisconsin's local music scene, including Wild Adriatic's influence on their sound.Whether you caught Scorched Waves at Mile of Music, Paper Fest, or Crazy Todd's house show, this Fox Cities Core interview gives you the full story behind the band and a look at where they're headed next.Follow Scorched Waves:Find them on all social media @scorchedwavesMore Fox Cities Core:Fox Cities Core is your source for interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews from the Fox Cities and Wisconsin regional live music scene, brought to you by WCZR Code Zero Radio.CHAPTERS:00:00 Scorched Waves Interview Begins – Fox Cities Core Welcome00:31 Scorched Waves & Their Fox Valley Roots02:29 Meet the Band – Tyler, Finn, Tiernan & Jaron02:55 Scorched Waves Origin Story – How the Band Started (2017-2019)03:30 From High School Emo Band to Indie Rock05:59 Where the Name "Scorched Waves" Came From07:37 Weekly Practice Since 2019 – Their Work Ethic10:52 Inside Scorched Waves' Songwriting Process14:23 Debut Album "Televised Paradise" & Recording During COVID17:19 "With a Smile" (2024) – A More Mature Sound19:33 New Singles & Plans for a Bigger Album Project20:46 Evolving Sound – Dance Rock, Melody & "Sinners"27:45 Paper Fest Story – Choking Mid-Set30:18 Scorched Waves Returns to Mile of Music33:58 Life on Tour – Sticky Vans & Small Towns, Big Energy36:07 Dedicated Fans & Unexpected Road Trip Stories39:56 The Danny Trejo Connection41:14 Crazy Todd's House Show & the Great Bee Incident43:20 Opening for Wheatus, High Fade & Bigger Artists45:18 Goals for Scorched Waves – First Avenue & Beyond46:48 Upcoming Shows: Riverside & Appleton Beer Factory48:43 Final Words from Scorched Waves#ScorchedWaves #MileofMusic #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #AppletonWI #IndieRock #WisconsinMusic #LiveMusicInterview #FoxValley #IndieBand #Mile13
July 31 · 48 min
Buddy Red Talks Blues, Pink Floyd & Hendrix Influences | Fox Cities Core Interview
Atlanta blues-rock artist Buddy Red joins Fox Cities Core on Code Zero Radio live from Appleton, Wisconsin, ahead of his run of shows at Mile of Music 13. Booking agent Fiona Bloom (Frontrunner Music) also stops by as guest co-host to share how Buddy Red landed on the festival lineup.In this conversation, Buddy Red breaks down his "psychedelic, human experience" approach to songwriting, his Hendrix, Pink Floyd, James Brown, and David Bowie influences, the story behind his song "1958," what it was like opening for Little Richard's band, and why he thinks guitar-driven live music is set for a comeback. He also walks through his full Mile of Music schedule — solo sets, full-band shows, and a rare collaboration with classically trained musicians from the Lawrence Chamber Music Festival — plus his plans for a physical-media debut EP release.FOLLOW BUDDY REDInstagram: @buddyredTikTok: @buddyredWebsite: buddyredmusic.comStreaming: Search "Buddy Red" on Spotify, Apple Music & TidalABOUT FOX CITIES COREFox Cities Core is a weekly show on WCZR Code Zero Radio, an independent streaming rock station based in Appleton, Wisconsin, covering the Fox Cities and Wisconsin live music scene through artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.LISTEN LIVE / MORE FROM CODE ZERO RADIOWebsite: codezeroradio.com
July 31 · 46 min
Koyal Talks LA Move, New Tamil Song & Debut Album Secrets | Fox Cities Core Interview
Indie pop-rock trio Koyal stopped by the Fox Cities Core studio on Code Zero Radio (Appleton, WI) ahead of their Mile of Music 2026 shows for a wide-ranging chat about their journey from a Georgia Tech dorm basement to Los Angeles.In this interview, Pooja (vocals/bass), Wallace (drums), and Noah (guitar/production) dig into:- The meaning behind the band name Koyal — named after a rare Indian songbird- Forming the band in college and the move from Atlanta to LA two years ago- Recording their sophomore album Breathe In, Breathe Out at Head Room Studio in Philadelphia- Debuting their new single "Shadow of You" live on air- A once-in-a-lifetime story about a Tamil-language collaboration inspired by a chance meeting with A.R. Rahman's collaborator Satish Chakravarthy- Life on the road, band merch, and their favorite (and least favorite) parts of touring- Their Mile of Music 2026 performance schedule in Appleton, WIKoyal blends indie pop and psych-rock influences pulling from Glass Animals, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Grouplove, and they're gearing up to release a steady stream of new singles through the fall and spring.- Follow Koyal: Instagram @koyal.official- Follow Fox Cities Core & Code Zero Radio for more indie artist interviews from the Fox Cities music scene.
July 30 · 38 min
Adriel Denae Talks New Music Ahead of Mile of Music 13 (Fox Cities Core Interview)
Adriel Denae joins Fox Cities Core ahead of her set with Hilary Reynolds this Saturday at the Chapel for Mile of Music 13! In this conversation, Adriel opens up about growing up in a religious music commune in Chicago (complete with secret cassette-tape trading and hidden Alanis Morissette albums), learning guitar from her dad by tackling "Blackbird" as her first song, and the wild early touring days that first brought her to the Fox Valley music scene.Adriel also talks about recording her self-titled debut solo album with Norah Jones producing, how becoming a mother reshaped her songwriting, and what's next as she works on a new batch of songs with her dad playing alongside her. Adriel wraps things up with some advice for anyone hitting the festival this weekend.Catch Adriel Denae and Hilary Reynolds live at the Chapel this Saturday as part of Mile of Music 13 in Appleton, WI!Fox Cities Core airs on Code Zero Radio (WCZR) — covering the Fox Cities and Wisconsin live music scene through artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.
July 22 · 1 hr 1 min
Jim Runge: Tour Manager on Parkinson's, Stroke Recovery & Rocky Restoration
Jim Runge spent over 30 years on the road as a tour manager for The Black Keys, Wilco, Jeff Tweedy, Alice in Chains, Major Lazer, Shakira, L.L. Cool J, Collective Soul, and dozens more. In 2020, just weeks after marrying his wife Stacy, Jim suffered a stroke — and in 2022, a Parkinson's disease diagnosis changed everything again.In this wide-ranging Fox Cities Core interview, Jim and Stacy stop by the studio to talk about the last four years: getting back on the road after the stroke, the emotional weight of Parkinson's, promoting a pair of films they were involved with (The Green Blah! and GOLD) while quietly carrying a life-altering diagnosis, and how they're now shifting from crisis mode into what they're calling "Operation Runge Restoration."Along the way, Jim shares stories from decades on tour — including the true story of a teenage Dave Grohl mailing him fan mail years before Nirvana, unforgettable nights at Minneapolis's First Avenue, and life inside the Green Bay hardcore punk scene that started it all with his band No Response.Support Jim & Stacy's recovery journey (GoFundMe):https://www.gofundme.com/f/operation-runge-restorationMore on Jim & Stacy:Follow their "Jim Runge IRL" story on YouTube and Facebook Live for ongoing updates.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587492770785#https://www.youtube.com/@jimrunge9113About Fox Cities CoreFox Cities Core on Code Zero Radio covers the Fox Cities and Wisconsin regional live music scene through artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.
July 14 · 58 min
The Morbs
The Morbs make their media debut on Fox Cities Core! Jasmin Folkesson and Charlie DeVillers — both bass players by trade, from Green Bay and Stockholm — sit down for their first-ever long-form interview to talk about how a joke ("what if two bass players started a band?") turned into a real project a year after they met.In this conversation, Jasmin and Charlie break down:- How the band name came from a Victorian term for temporary melancholia ("the morbs") — and how a Spotify playlist made as a joke became a real band within the hour- Writing and finishing debut single "Plague" remotely between Green Bay and Stockholm, with Jonathan (7000 Apart) handling recording, vocals, and mix/master- Their noisy, post-punk-leaning sound, inspired by bands like Viagra Boys and Parquet Courts- Jasmin and Charlie's shared history in 7000 Apart — Charlie played bass in the band for three years before starting Modern Haunting, and Jasmin stepped in as her replacement- Charlie's new stint on drums, including a U.S. drumming debut with Nightmares for Angels (featuring Robyn Kate of Before Dawn) at Mile of Music- Upcoming shows: Modern Haunting at the Green Bay UFO Invasion Fest (Thursday, July 23rd, - Badger State Brewing) with Carly from 7000 Apart sitting in on drums, and The Morbs playing August 7th with French Irish CoalitionThe Morbshttps://open.spotify.com/track/5y7EZ702JzqW9Qwy8qNzDC?autoplay_ok=1Fox Cities Core airs on WCZR Code Zero Radio, covering the Fox Valley live music scene through interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.
July 12 · 48 min
Rökker Smith on AtwoodFest, Onstage Cardiac Arrest and Max Ink: Code Zero Radio Interview
Rökker Smith has been a part of the Madison, Wisconsin music scene for nearly four decades. In 1996 he founded Maximum Ink Music Magazine, a statewide monthly publication that ran for 27 years. In 2011 he brought that same mission to the airwaves with Max Ink Radio, now broadcasting statewide every Saturday and Sunday night on the Civic Media Network. He's also the drummer for Madison rock band Iron Plow and the longtime programmer and stage director for Atwood Fest. In this in-depth interview, recorded at the Civic Media studio in Madison — home of Max Ink Radio's live weekend broadcasts — Andy McNamara of Code Zero Radio sits down with Rökker to talk about the 27-year run of Maximum Ink, the leap into radio, playing Bratfest and Summerfest with Iron Plow, his WAMI Wall of Honor induction, and the sudden cardiac arrest he survived on stage mid-set with his band last December. Rökker opens up about the "chain of survival," CPR and AED awareness, the PulsePoint app, and his comeback show less than a year later. We also dig into Atwood Fest 2026 (Saturday, July 25 & Sunday, July 26 in Madison), including how Rökker books three stages of local, regional, and national touring artists, his "wedding strategy" for lineup building, "Rocker's Torture" scheduling conflicts, and what first-time festivalgoers need to know before they go. Learn more about Atwood Fest: https://atwoodfest.com Learn more about Max Ink Radio & Maximum Ink Music Magazine: https://civicmedia.us/shows/max-ink-radio Follow Iron Plow for new music and show updates https://ironplow.rocks This interview is part of Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio, covering the regional and statewide live music scene through artist interviews, venue spotlights, and show previews.
July 8 · 17 min
Candlebox's Kevin Martin on "Far Behind," Peter Klett's Return & New Music | Code Zero Radio
Candlebox frontman Kevin Martin talks with Code Zero Radio's Andy McNamara ahead of the band's show at EPIC Event Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Thirty-plus years after their quadruple-platinum self-titled debut, Candlebox is back with original guitarist Peter Klett back in the fold — and new music on the way. In this candid conversation, Kevin opens up about the true story behind "Far Behind" and its connection to Mother Love Bone's Andy Wood, what it was really like getting played on MTV every hour during the Seattle grunge explosion, and the wild Maverick Records marketing stunt that had Candlebox's name on billboards outside Madison Square Garden. He also talks about nearly retiring from music, why Peter Klett coming back reignited his passion for the band, life on the road (PlayStation golf and Spotify roulette included), and what fans can expect from the new songs the band is tracking this August in Palm Springs. Kevin also shares his deep ties to the Midwest — born in Chicago, raised in Seattle — and says he'd love to finally bring Candlebox to Appleton, Wisconsin. In this interview: - The real meaning behind "Far Behind" and Andy Wood - Getting played on MTV during Candlebox's rise - The Maverick Records / Madison Square Garden billboard story - Peter Klett's return to Candlebox - Recording at Robert Lang Studios & London Bridge Studio - New music coming this fall from a Palm Springs studio session - Candlebox's touring rituals and songwriting evolution since the '90s - An invite for Candlebox to play Appleton, Wisconsin Watch, listen, and follow Code Zero Radio for more artist interviews, local music coverage, and everything happening in the Fox Cities and Green Bay live music scene. #Candlebox #KevinMartin #FarBehind #PeterKlett #CodeZeroRadio #SeattleGrunge #90sRock #GreenBayWisconsin #EPICEventCenter #RockMusic #LiveMusic #FoxCitiesCore #WisconsinMusic #MTVGrunge #RockInterview
July 7 · 1 hr 11 min
Mile of Music 13 Preview
Mile of Music is back — and this year it's officially a nonprofit! With Mile 13 less than a month away, Fox Cities Core host Andy McNamara sits down with three of the people who make it happen: founder Dave Willems, Director of Talent & Partnerships Ian Thomson, and Venue & Artist Relations lead Melissa Freeman.In this episode of Fox Cities Core — Code Zero Radio's weekly deep dive into the Fox Valley live music scene — the team breaks down what's new for Mile 13, including the shift to full 501(c)(3) nonprofit status as Mile of Music Inc., the ongoing search for the perfect August festival weekend, the strict 5-mile artist radius rule protecting downtown venues, why the Mile Bus won't be rolling this year, and how they balance genres beyond the festival's Americana roots — including the hardcore punk legends The Crosses. They also dig into the wild story of Mile One (60 planned artists turned into 107), the Artist Care Program that keeps musicians coming back, and why "more music, better community" drives everything they do.Mile of Music 13 takes over downtown Appleton, Wisconsin this August with hundreds of original artists across dozens of venues — bars, coffee shops, theaters, and parking lots all turned into stages for one unforgettable weekend of musical discovery. #MileofMusic #Appleton
June 16 · 1 hr 9 min
Ryan Vander Sanden - General Manager and Entertainment Director at EPIC Event Center in Green Bay
Ryan Vander Sanden — General Manager and Entertainment Director at EPIC Event Center in Green Bay — joins Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio for a wide-open conversation about the business of live music, the stories behind the shows, and why Northeast Wisconsin's concert scene is better than ever.Ryan pulls back the curtain on everything from his first (hilariously disastrous) national booking — an LA Guns show where he bought every item on the rider, including the band's socks — to landing Megadeth and Obituary for the only two Wisconsin dates on their farewell tour. If you've ever wondered why your favorite band skipped Green Bay, why ticket prices are what they are, or what really happens backstage after the show, this episode is for you.HIGHLIGHTS:- How Ryan got his start in the music business — with zero experience and even less idea what "backline" meant- The behind-the-scenes reality of booking national acts: routing, rider riders, production costs, and why not every band can play every market- Landing Megadeth + Obituary for two exclusive Wisconsin stadium shows (August 1)- The story behind the Marilyn Manson show — protesters in the parking lot, a smoke machine that tripped the fire alarm, and fans who didn't flinch- GWAR on Easter. Marilyn Manson on Mother's Day. The cleanup crew. The Faygo. All of it.- EPIC's Friends of Epic Display — how stage-worn memorabilia from Jesse Dupree (Jackyl) to Corey Taylor ends up in the venue (and why it stays there)- Sleep Token as an opening act, and other "lightning in a bottle" moments before a band blows up- The origins of Behind the Curtain, EPIC's podcast with co-host Don Jamieson (That Metal Show), featuring guests like Wolfgang Van Halen, Chad Gray, Edwin McCain, and Ricky Rachman- Why Buddy Guy (October 9) might be your last chance to see a living blues legend — and why you shouldn't sit this one out- Lynyrd Skynyrd with Mark Farner and The Beach Boys — September 3, fully seated outdoor show- Napoleon Dynamite interactive screening — what to expect from the cast Q&A- Why EPIC has free parking, some of the lowest ticket fees in the region, and a liquor selection that rivals venues twice its size- Gene Simmons. Ozzy Osbourne. Wayne Newton's guitar inscription. The Avatar singer who wiped out mid-show. Rock and roll is still very much alive.Fox Cities Core is a live interview program on WCZR Code Zero Radio, an independent streaming rock station based in Appleton, Wisconsin. New episodes feature in-depth conversations with artists, industry insiders, and the people who make the regional music scene run.EPIC Event Center: https://www.epicgreenbay.comBehind the Curtain Podcast: Search "Behind the Curtain EPIC" wherever you listen#EPICEventCenter #GreenBayMusic #LiveMusic #FoxCitiesCore #WCZRCodeZeroRadio #BehindTheCurtain #RyanVanderSanden #Megadeth #BuddyGuy #LynyrdSkynyrd #MarilynManson #WisconsinMusic #ConcertVenue #MusicIndustry #FoxCities #Appleton #GreenBay #RockMusic #LiveMusicWisconsin #ConcertBooking
June 7 · 50 min
Bronson Arm
Kalamazoo noise rock duo Bronson Arm — Blake Bickel (baritone guitar/vocals) and Garrett Yates (drums) — stop by the studio in Appleton, Wisconsin for a wide-ranging conversation on Fox Cities Core, the weekly live interview show on WCZR Code Zero Radio, hosted by Andy McNamara. The band is on the road supporting their latest album Casket Schwagg (Learning Curve Records).In this interview, Blake and Garrett break down how two guys from opposite coasts ended up forming a powerhouse two-piece in Kalamazoo — meeting through their kids' school and a chance conversation at a brewery. Garrett opens up about a decade-long drumming hiatus while serving in the Navy on submarines, and how Blake immediately knew something special was there within the first 30 seconds of Garrett sitting back behind a kit. Blake reflects on his previous band The Great Goddamn in Seattle, his background in audio engineering and pedal-building, and his BFA in visual arts — which directly informs Bronson Arm's creative, concept-driven music videos.The conversation covers recording their self-titled debut in Blake's basement during COVID lockdown, the meaning behind the album title Casket Schwagg, their prolific music video output (including a burning couch, a karaoke dive bar, and a darker disclaimer-worthy clip), touring logistics as a DIY two-piece, playing to a click track live, and plans to take their sound to new territory on the next record. Plus — they're headed to Fest in Florida with 350 bands.Stick around for Ryan Fluke joining as a surprise co-host, comparisons to White Stripes, Black Keys, Sonic Youth, and Rage Against the Machine, and Blake revealing the KARP lyric behind the band name. Follow Bronson Arm:Website: bronsonarm.com Instagram: instagram.com/bronson_arm_noise Facebook: facebook.com/bronsonarm.noise

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