This Is DeLaCruz

Nicholas DeLaCruz
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  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
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Hosted by Nick DeLaCruz, This Is DeLaCruz takes you behind the scenes of live music with both the bands on stage and the unsung heroes who keep the show alive. Each episode features real conversations with artists, engineers, techs, and crew, pulling back the curtain on life on the road. From the chaos of soundcheck to the rush of showtime, they share the triumphs, struggles, and untold stories that make touring unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan, a musician, or just curious about what happens beyond the spotlight, this podcast is your all-access pass to the world of live music.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Drum Tech for Killswitch Engage (Matt Colwell)

    Send us a text In this episode, I sit down with Matt Colwell, the Drum Tech for Killswitch Engage, and the person responsible for making sure the heartbeat of the band’s sound never skips a beat. From drum tuning and hardware setup to quick changeovers and mid-show problem solving, Matt is the steady hand behind the thunder that drives Killswitch’s live shows. We dig into what it takes to tech drums for a band known for its speed, precision, and power. Matt shares his process for keeping the kit road-ready, the gear and setups he trusts, and the little details that make a huge difference on stage. He also gives us a glimpse into life on the road, the challenges of touring at this level, and what it’s like working with one of metalcore’s most influential bands. Whether you’re a drummer, a tech, or just curious about the crew that keeps Killswitch Engage firing on all cylinders, this episode pulls back the curtain on the skill and dedication required to keep the rhythm rock solid. Download the app: http://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Website: http://www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: http://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: http://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: http://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: http://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Matts Instagram https://www.instagram.com/music.handyman 🌍 Killswitch Engaged Instagram:http://www.instagram.com/killswitchengage  📚 🙏 Shout Outs & Credits A huge thanks to everyone who helped make this video possible!  Music by: http://epidemicsound.com  🎶 📩 Let’s Connect Got questions or just want to chat? Email me at: nick@thisisdelacruz.com  🔥 Don’t Forget! Like, comment, and subscribe for more awesome content! 👍🔔 Support the show

    12 min

  2. 4 DAYS AGO

    Running Sound for Dashboard Confessional (Zach Eubanks)

    Send us a text In this episode, I sit down with Zach Eubanks, the Front of House Engineer for Dashboard Confessional, to talk about what it takes to mix one of the most emotionally charged and iconic bands of the 2000s emo/alt-rock movement. Known for their intimate lyrics and soaring anthems, Dashboard Confessional relies on Zach to bring their deeply personal songs to life in every venue, from clubs to festivals. We dive into his approach to crafting a mix that balances raw emotion with clarity, the gear and techniques he uses to keep vocals and acoustic elements front and center, and how he adapts to the different atmospheres of Dashboard’s shows. Zach also shares his journey into live sound, life on the road, and what it’s like helping deliver a show that means so much to so many fans. Whether you’re an audio engineer, a touring professional, or simply a Dashboard Confessional fan who wants to peek behind the curtain, this conversation gives you an inside look at the artistry, pressure, and passion of running sound for a band whose music defined a generation. Download the app: http://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Website: htts://www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: http://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: http://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: http://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: http://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Zach's Instagram http://www.instagram.com/eubiez 🌍 Dashboard Confessional's Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dashboardconfessional  📚 🙏 Shout Outs & Credits A huge thanks to everyone who helped make this video possible!  Music by: http://epidemicsound.com  🎶 📩 Let’s Connect Got questions or just want to chat? Email me at: nick@thisisdelacruz.com  🔥 Don’t Forget! Like, comment, and subscribe for more awesome content! 👍🔔 Support the show

    26 min

  3. 26 JAN

    What It Takes to Mix Killswitch Engage Every Night (Alex Markides)

    Send us a text Extended Version👇 YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join   Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz  Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! Step behind the console with Alex Markides, the Front of House Engineer for Killswitch Engage, as we dive into what it takes to deliver the band’s massive, high-energy sound night after night. Known for their crushing riffs, soaring vocals, and dynamic live shows, Killswitch relies on Alex to keep the mix powerful, balanced, and clear in every venue. In this interview, Alex shares his approach to mixing heavy music, the challenges of keeping clarity in such a dense sonic landscape, and the gear and workflows he trusts on tour. We also dig into his journey as a live sound engineer, what it’s like working with one of metalcore’s most influential bands, and the moments on the road that stand out the most. Whether you’re an aspiring FOH engineer, a touring audio pro, or just a fan of Killswitch Engage who wants to know what it takes to make the show sound massive from front to back, this episode pulls back the curtain on one of the most vital roles in live music. Download the app: http://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Website: http://www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: http://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: http://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: http://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: http://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Alex Instagram http://www.instagram.com/darkides 🌍 Killswitch Engaged Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/killswitchengage  📚 🙏 Shout Outs & Credits A huge thanks to everyone who helped make this video possible!  Music by: http://epidemicsound.com  🎶 📩 Let’s Connect Got questions or just want to chat? Email me at: nick@thisisdelacruz.com  🔥 Don’t Forget! Like, comment, and subscribe for more awesome content! 👍🔔 Support the show

    44 min

  4. 20 JAN

    Painting Emotion with Light — Dashboard Confessional’s Lighting Designer (Afton Gerring)

    Send us a text Today we talk with Afton Gerring, the Lighting Designer for Dashboard Confessional, to explore how she brings atmosphere, mood, and emotion to life through lighting design. From intimate acoustic moments to soaring full-band anthems, Afton uses light as a storytelling tool, shaping the audience’s experience with every cue. We dive into her creative process, how she designs a show that complements the band’s emotional music, the gear and consoles she relies on, and the challenges of touring with a band whose songs span quiet ballads to explosive rock tracks. Afton also shares her journey into live production, what inspires her designs, and the behind-the-scenes realities of being a lighting designer on tour. Whether you’re a lighting professional, a touring crew member, or a Dashboard Confessional fan who wants to see how their shows transform into unforgettable experiences, this conversation shines a light (literally) on one of the most creative roles in live music. Download the app: http://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Website: http://www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: http://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: http://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: http://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: http://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Afton's Instagram http://www.instagram.com/aftonalmighty 🌍 Dashboard Confessional Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dashboardconfessional 📚 Support the show

    12 min

  5. 12 JAN

    How Killswitch Engage’s Guitars Survive Tour Life (Josh Mihlek)

    Send us a text In this episode, I sit down with Josh Mihlek, the Guitar Tech for Killswitch Engage, and the man responsible for keeping the band’s crushing riffs and iconic tones ready to go every night. From string changes and pedalboard setups to troubleshooting mid-show and keeping the gear battle-ready, Josh plays a vital role in making sure Killswitch delivers their massive live sound show after show. We dive into the life of a touring guitar tech, the gear he maintains, the prep it takes to keep things running smoothly, and the behind-the-scenes stories that fans rarely get to hear. Josh also shares his personal journey into the world of live music, what it’s like supporting one of metalcore’s most influential bands, and the challenges of keeping up with such an intense touring schedule. If you’re a guitarist, gear head, or just curious about what it takes to keep Killswitch Engage’s sound alive on the road, this episode gives you a rare look at the precision, skill, and hustle that happens backstage. Download the app: http://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Website: http://www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: http://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: http://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: http://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: http://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Josh Instagram http://www.instagram.com/the_josh 🌍 Killswitch Engaged Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/killswitchengage  📚 🙏 Shout Outs & Credits A huge thanks to everyone who helped make this video possible!  Music by: http://epidemicsound.com  🎶 📩 Let’s Connect Got questions or just want to chat? Email me at: nick@thisisdelacruz.com  Support the show

    15 min

  6. 1 JAN

    What Dashboard Confessional Actually Hears on Stage (Santiago Del Valle Garces)

    Send us a text In this episode, I talk with Santiago Del Valle Garces, the Monitor Engineer for Dashboard Confessional, to talk about the crucial role of crafting the perfect on-stage mix. As the person responsible for what the band hears in their in-ears and wedges, Santiago ensures every performance feels locked-in and full of emotion, giving the band the confidence to deliver songs that have defined a generation. We discuss his approach to monitor mixing for a band like Dashboard Confessional, where the intimacy of acoustic-driven songs meets the power of full-band anthems. Santiago shares his workflow, the tools and techniques he relies on, and how he manages quick changes and high-pressure moments when everything depends on the artist’s comfort on stage. He also opens up about his journey into live sound and the realities of life on tour. Whether you’re an aspiring monitor engineer, a touring pro, or a Dashboard Confessional fan who wants to understand how the magic happens on stage, this conversation offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into one of the most important (and stressful) jobs in live music. Download the app: http://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Website: htts://www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: http://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: http://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: http://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: http://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Santi's Instagram http://www.instagram.com/santi.delvalle1022 🌍 Dashboard Confessional Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dashboardconfessional 📚 Support the show

    21 min

  7. 29/12/2025

    The Secrets Behind Shinedown’s Massive Live Sound (Andy Meyer)

    Send us a text Ever wonder how Shinedown’s live shows sound so massive, clear, and powerful? Their Front of House Engineer breaks it all down — from mixing techniques and stage setup to what really happens before doors open. We talk about the gear, the workflow, and the human side of keeping a high-pressure tour running smoothly. You’ll also hear a bit of my story and how our paths crossed in the world of live touring audio. This is the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at what makes Shinedown’s sound one of the best in rock today. Extended Versions 👇 YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join   Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz  Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! Download the app:  Apple- https://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Goggle Play- https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=branded.md827dad89e764e9bb7c2ec182c428055.delacruz Website: htts://www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: http://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: http://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: http://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: http://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: http://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Andy’s Instagram http://www.instagram.com/foh1212? 🌍 Shinedown’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/shinedown  📚 🙏 Shout Outs & Credits A huge thanks to everyone who helped make this video possible!  Music by: http://epidemicsound.com  🎶 📩 Let’s Connect Got questions or just want to chat? Email me at: nick@thisisdelacruz.com  🔥 Don’t Forget! Like, comment, and subscribe for more awesome content! 👍🔔 Support the show

    1h 12m

  8. 22/12/2025

    Ice Nine Kills Guitar Tech (Matt Kirby)

    Send us a text Running the Show: Matt Kirby – Guitar Tech & Stage Manager for Ice Nine Kills In this episode, I sit down with Matt Kirby, the multi-tasking powerhouse who serves as both Guitar Tech and Stage Manager for the horror-metal spectacle that is Ice Nine Kills. From keeping guitars perfectly tuned and show-ready to managing the chaos of theatrical props, costume changes, and stage cues, Matt plays a critical role in making sure the band’s high-intensity performances go off without a hitch. We talk about what it’s like balancing two demanding jobs on the same tour, the gear and systems he relies on, and how he handles quick turnarounds and problem-solving in real time. Matt also shares behind-the-scenes stories from the road, including the challenges (and fun) of working in one of the most theatrical and fast-paced productions in modern metal. Whether you’re a tech, a tour manager in the making, or a fan of Ice Nine Kills who wants to see how the horror comes to life, this episode gives you an all-access pass to one of the busiest jobs in the crew. Download the app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/this-is-delacruz/id6746411351 Website: www.thisisdelacruz.com  🤳 Social Media & Hangouts Instagram: https://instagram.com/thisisdelacruz 📸 Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/ThisIsDeLaCruz Facebook: https://facebook.com/Nicholas.DeLaCruz👍 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@this.is.delacruz 🎉 Twitter: https://x.com/thisisdelacruz 🐦 🤘🏽 Support My Journey Join this channel to get access to perks: YouTube Membership: https://youtube.com/channel/UC87o5nnsjldToX-uP8TlYeA/join  Patreon: https://patreon.com/ThisIsDeLaCruz 🌟 Join our little family for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes fun, and cool perks! 🔗 Band and Crew Matt’s https://www.instagram.com/insta.kirb 🌍 Ice Nine Kills Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iceninekills📚 🙏 Shout Outs & Credits A huge thanks to everyone who helped make this video possible!  Music by: https://epidemicsound.com  🎶 📩 Let’s Connect Got questions or just want to chat? Email me at: nick@thisisdelacruz.com  🔥 Don’t Forget! Like, comment, and subscribe for more awesome content! 👍🔔 Support the show

    12 min
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About

Hosted by Nick DeLaCruz, This Is DeLaCruz takes you behind the scenes of live music with both the bands on stage and the unsung heroes who keep the show alive. Each episode features real conversations with artists, engineers, techs, and crew, pulling back the curtain on life on the road. From the chaos of soundcheck to the rush of showtime, they share the triumphs, struggles, and untold stories that make touring unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan, a musician, or just curious about what happens beyond the spotlight, this podcast is your all-access pass to the world of live music.

Information

  • Creator
    Nicholas DeLaCruz
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    128
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 This Is DeLaCruz
  • Show Website
    This Is DeLaCruz
  • Provider