Niia joins me to unpack her forthcoming album—a modern, live-first take on jazz that blends an acoustic rhythm section with subtle, future-leaning electronic colors. Trained as a jazz vocalist and raised at the piano, she set out to create something timeless, without relying on retro tropes or trend-bound sounds. The result is a record that breathes: spacious mixes, genuine dynamics, and arrangements that allow for interplay while keeping the vocal narrative at the center.We trace her path from a fiercely musical Italian family outside Boston—classical piano with her mom, jazz studies at The New School in New York—to early studio reps as a jingle singer, where she learned mic technique, speed, and how to “translate” creative direction. A move to Los Angeles opened new collaborative circles and ultimately led to the creation of this album, co-produced with Lawrence Rothman and Spencer Zahn (whose bass work is a standout). Most core tracks were cut together, with Niia revisiting vocals after living with the songs; mixer John Castello kept the feel alive rather than over-processed. Her version of “Angel Eyes,” distilled to voice and piano, anchors the record and nods to the tradition she loves.We also discuss the human side of performing—stage fright, perfectionism, and the transition from singing with eyes closed to fully engaging with an audience. For Niia, connection beats ego: the goal is to help people feel something, not to sand every edge. As the new album rolls out (release date: October 10), she’s launching a 10-date European tour starting in Germany and Copenhagen, with hopes of bringing the show to Asia and the U.S. next. Long term, she dreams of a lush standards album—but, as she puts it, not just yet.Pre-save and listen to Niia's upcoming album, V, on all streaming services (https://niiamusic.lnk.to/niiavPR).To learn more about Niia, visit her website. Music from the Episode:throw my head out the window (Niia)pianos and great danes (Niia)f*cking happy (Niia)angel eyes (Niia)Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with the legendary vocalist Arnold McCuller, whose voice has graced stages and recordings alongside artists such as James Taylor and Phil Collins, among others. While we reflect on some of his most iconic musical moments, our conversation centers on his current mission as a recovery coach and interventionist, as well as his involvement with Harmonium. This powerful organization supports creatives in recovery.We talk about the unique pressures musicians face, how addiction weaves into the culture of performance, and the courage it takes to rebuild a life and career on new terms. I also share some of my own journey of sobriety — nearing one year — and Arnold offers wisdom on moving past shame, reclaiming creativity, and finding freedom through community.This is a conversation about music, resilience, and hope — one that every artist (and human) will find something in.Music from the Episode:Witness (Arnold McCuller)Chances Are (Arnold McCuller)Hard Times (Arnold McCuller)You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive (Arnold McCuller)Above the Rain (Arnold McCuller)To learn more about Arnold and his incredible work, please 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. 

On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with Todd Meehan, Professor of Percussion and Associate Dean of Graduate Studies at Baylor University. Todd is a dynamic performer, educator, and advocate for contemporary percussion, whose career blends artistry, scholarship, and leadership.We talk about his journey as a percussionist, including what first drew him to the instrument, his time as a student and performer, and the ways he continues to push the boundaries of what percussion can be. Todd also shares insights into his role as an educator, mentoring the next generation of percussionists at Baylor, and how he balances the dual roles of professor and associate dean.Along the way, we dig into topics such as innovation in percussion repertoire, the importance of cultivating curiosity in students, and how higher education is evolving for young musicians. Todd’s perspective offers a unique look at how percussion performance, teaching, and leadership intersect.This conversation is both inspiring and practical, perfect for musicians, educators, and anyone fascinated by the craft of percussion and the pathways it can open.To learn more about Todd and the Baylor University percussion studio, visit Todd's website or the Baylor percussion studio website. Music from the Episode:Gardens (Excerpt) (Ivan Trevino - Baylor University Percussion Ensemble) Gardens (2024) was commissioned by the Baylor Percussion Group in celebration of Todd Meehan's 20th year of teaching at Baylor University. The piece is scored for six percussionists who perform on piano, two vibraphones, one 5.0 octave marimba, and glockenspiel.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 talking with Ray Herndon, a musician whose story stretches from Scottsdale’s legendary Handlebar J to the road with Lyle Lovett and the harmonies of McBride & The Ride.Ray and I start by digging into his family’s club, Handlebar J, which has been a Scottsdale institution for 50 years. We talk about the balance of being both a musician and a restaurant owner, and what it means to carry on the legacy of a place that has hosted countless nights of music.From there, our conversation winds through his other passions, like competitive poker, and the surprising similarities he finds between playing cards and improvising on the guitar. Ray also reflects on his lifelong love of learning, including his in-depth exploration of Barry Harris’s concepts, his admiration for Pat Martino, and what he learned from lessons with greats like Joe Pass and Ted Greene.We spend time swapping stories about the incredible steel guitar community, remembering players like Buck Reid, Paul Franklin, Gary Morse, Bruce Bouton, Joe Rogers, and Johnny Cox. And of course, we trace Ray’s path from nights at Mr. Lucky’s with J. David Sloan and the Rogues, to that fateful Luxembourg trip where his band first connected with Lyle Lovett, and how those relationships eventually led to McBride & The Ride.Ray also discusses finding his own voice as a singer and songwriter, including the enduring impact of “Me and You,” a song that has remained a staple in weddings and playlists worldwide. We close by talking about what it’s like to reunite with McBride & The Ride these days and how the music has only gotten better, the pressure is gone, and the laughter comes easy, as well as his recent work with Don McLean’s band.It was such a joy to hear Ray reflect on the twists and turns of his career, the people who shaped it, and the music that continues to inspire him.Music from the Episode:Amarillo Sky (McBride & the Ride)Lovin' Her Was Easier (Ray Herndon)Me and You (Ray Herndon)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 catch up with my former student and friend, Noah Young. Noah’s a versatile musician: drum set player, former Baylor University snare drummer, and a committed bagpiper with the Atlanta Pipe Band (where he also serves as VP). We trace his path from a Cajun-rooted musical home and an elite youth piping program, through Wesleyan School drumline and chapel band, to the intensity of a Big 12 college drumline—and how all of it shaped his musicianship, character, and career.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.