Derringer Discoveries - A Music Adventure Podcast

Team Derringer

Get ready for a fast-paced, witty ride through the world of music! Hosted by Team Derringer—Laura, Alton, and Paul—this podcast dives into the stories behind the songs and the artists who create them. From legendary icons to rising indie stars (many of whom join us on the show), we explore the music that moves us all. Now in our 5th year and streaming in over 30 countries, Derringer Discoveries is your backstage pass to a global music journey. New episodes drop twice a month, packed with sharp commentary, music snippets, and plenty of surprises. 🎧 Subscribe to our free newsletter and never miss a beat: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/subscribe

  1. 1D AGO

    Goose vs. Geese | The Battle of the Waterfowl! (EP96)

    Goose vs. Geese | The Battle of the Waterfowl! In this episode of Derringer Discoveries, we are officially “winging it” as we dive into the avian-obsessed world of rock and roll. Join Paul, Laura, Alton, and our newly minted co-host, Rob Derringer, as we settle a debate over two of the most talked-about bands in the current scene: Connecticut’s jam-band kings, Goose, and Brooklyn’s post-punk provocateurs, Geese. In This Episode, We Discuss: The "Apex Predators" of Bird Bands: We look at the industry’s obsession with our feathered friends, from The Eagles and The Black Crowes to The Yardbirds, The Byrds, and Wings. We break down two very different modern rock stories: Geese, the Brooklyn post‑punk critical darlings who exploded after an SNL appearance and now boast millions of monthly listeners; and Goose, the Connecticut‑born jam‑band phenomenon whose marathon live shows and festival breakout turned them into a touring powerhouse. Geese – The Post-Punk Anarchists: How a group of friends from Stuyvesant High School went from a basement studio called “The Nest” to a bidding war over their demos. The fallout from their polarizing Saturday Night Live performance that split the internet between "rock saviors" and "derivative impostors". Their meteoric rise to over 2 million monthly listeners and critical acclaim for albums like 3D Country and Getting Killed. Goose – The Indie-Groove Torchbearers: The band’s "Big Bang" moment at the 2019 Peach Music Festival that transformed them into a national sensation overnight. Why they are considered the new leaders of the jam-band scene, blending the spirit of the Grateful Dead and Phish with a Vampire Weekend sensibility. Their impressive resume of sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden and Red Rocks.  The Final Vote The team steps off the fence to choose their winner in the Battle of the Waterfowl. Who takes the crown: the singular Goose or the plural Geese? Connect with Derringer Discoveries We want to hear from you! Is "jam band" a badge of honor or a warning label? Are you Team Goose or Team Geese? Email us: feedback@derringerdiscoveries.com  WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/095 Spotify Playlist: Stevie Wonder Inspired Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries!

    33 min
  2. FEB 1

    Stevie Wonder with Kleidi from Venezuela (EP95)

    WHY STEVIE? Recently, Stevie Wonder announced his 2026 World Tour — A triumphant return to the global stage, during which the iconic legend will headline 40 major shows across North America, Europe, and Asia. So far, South America is not mentioned in the itinerary. Even so, Team Derringer heard from a listener in Caracas, Venezuela who is a dedicated fan of the consummate "Superstition" hitmaker whose amazing career has spanned more than 65 years. STEVIE IN CARACAS The last time Stevie Wonder toured Venezuela was January 1 to 6 of 1970 when he performed in Caracas. Since then, he continues to be revered in Venezuela's capital city. In this episode, join Paul Derringer with newly minted Rob Derringer who pulled double-duty by subbing for both Laura Derringer and Alton Derringer who were unavailable for this session. WHO IS KLEIDI? Paul and Rob hold an informative discussion with singer and musician Kleidi Buroz of Caracas who conveys Stevie Wonder's influence, which started when Kleidi was a student at the National Experimental University of the Arts of Venezuela (UNEARTE). STEVIE'S TOP FIVE With translation help from Humberto "Berto" Oliveira Sales of the Charlottesville-based Brazilian-influenced duo Beleza, Kleidi takes Paul and Rob through a Top Five Countdown of Stevie Wonder's best of the best. Listen in to find out the Top Five from a Venezuelan's point-of-view. WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/095 Spotify Playlist: Stevie Wonder Inspired Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries!

    28 min
  3. JAN 3

    The Unknown Dylan (EP94)

    Yes, January 1, 2026, marks the official start of Derringer Discoveries' 6th year as a music adventure podcast! The Three Dylans: Discovering the Talent of Peter Himmelman In the music world, the name Dylan usually points to the legendary Bob Dylan. For others, it might evoke Bob’s son Jakob, the successful leader of The Wallflowers, which is essentially Jakob's alter ego. However, there is a third artist in the family circle who deserves your attention. Peter Himmelman, Bob Dylan’s son-in-law, is a singer-songwriter and performer whose talent rivals the family icons. With a voice and delivery that are exceptionally easy on the ears, he is the artist you have likely been missing. THE SETTING In this episode, Team Derringer (Laura, Alton, and Paul) will introduce you to The Unknown Dylan. To help with this daunting task, the team drafted long-time listener -- and newly minted "Honorary Derringer" -- Rob Paine, from Northern Virginia. Rob drove to Charlottesville, the corporate headquarters for Derringer Discoveries, to join Laura, Alton, and Paul in person and to save the day when Peter Himmelman was unable to join Team Derringer.  While in town, Rob and Team Derringer soaked up some local music history at Miller’s on the Downtown Mall -- where the world-famous band leader, Dave Matthews, previously worked as a bartender. The night continued at Coran Capshaw’s The Southern Café & Music Hall, where they caught an incredible live set by UK up-and-comers, The Heavy Heavy, with Nashville-based opener Laney Jones and the Spirits. You might be interested to know that Rob is the fan who originally suggested this deep dive into Peter Himmelman’s work, and his insights provide the backbone for this episode. (Do you have an idea for an episode? Let us know!) THE HIGHLIGHTS The Family Tree: Rob explains how Peter became Bob Dylan’s son-in-law. (Team Derringer featured Bob Dylan in Episode 80.) The discussion further expands to Peter’s brother-in-law Jakob Dylan, leader of The Wallflowers.  The Scale: Team Derringer requests for Rob to rank the Dylans -- Bob, Jakob, and Peter (Dylan in-law) on a one to 10 scale. Listen in to hear how Peter stacks up against the competition. Interstellar Recommendations: Rob also tackles a bizarre question from Paul in this episode. If a life form from another planet approached him to learn about the Dylans, what would he do? Discover Rob's reaction and the specific songs he would play for an alien audience. Once you hear his recommendations, tell Derringer Discoveries if you would choose the same ones. The Supergroup: The team dives into Bob’s time with the Traveling Wilburys and their lasting musical impact. WHY PETER HIMMELMAN? Team Derringer acknowledges that Peter’s last name is not Dylan, but his artistic pedigree and connection to the family make him a vital part of the story. By the end of this episode, we believe you will embrace his music with the same enthusiasm as our guest co-host, Rob Paine. WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/094 Spotify Playlist: The Unknown Dylan Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries!

    28 min
  4. 12/13/2025

    ROSEBUDTHORN: Bridging the Transatlantic Divide with Synth and Story (EP93)

    From Baltimore, Maryland to Holzminden, Germany, two independent artists have bridged five time zones to create a new transatlantic sound. In this episode of Derringer Discoveries, Paul and Alton sit down with Katie Tich and UAP (Rainer Aschemeier) -- the duo behind ROSEBUDTHORN -- to explore how their collaboration grew from remote songwriting into a full-fledged band. Katie, a returning Honorary Derringer, shares her journey as an indie singer-songwriter and discusses two of her recent solo releases: Crossfire and her newest track, Stress Dreams. UAP, a retrowave/synthwave producer and host of the podcast, Let’s Talk Synth… Seriously!, reflects on his prolific catalog, including collaborations with Color Theory, Mikotron, and &Tilly, plus his recent soundtrack project. He also spotlights his signature solo song, City Be Your Monster, which captures the essence of his retro-synth style. Before forming ROSEBUDTHORN, Katie and UAP released a collaborative album called Transatlantic, which featured Talita -- the very first track born from their partnership. While they have not yet released a full album as ROSEBUDTHORN, they highlight their latest single Reflection in this episode, a song that blends Katie’s layered acoustic guitars with UAP’s synth-driven soundscapes and Hammond-style organ flourishes. Together, Katie and UAP recount their first live performance at Schloss Bevern Castle in Germany, the creation of Transatlantic, and the evolution of their unique sound -- marrying indie-pop melodies, acoustic textures, synthwave atmospheres, and heartland rock energy. Looking ahead, they hope to release a debut ROSEBUDTHORN album in the near future. Tune in to hear snippets of Katie’s solo work (Crossfire and Stress Dreams), UAP’s signature track (so far), City Be Your Monster, their collaborative album Transatlantic, and ROSEBUDTHORN’s single Reflection, plus behind-the-scenes stories of collaboration across continents. CONNECT WITH THE ARTISTS Katie Tich Instagram: @katietichmusic Spotify: Katie Tich YouTube: Katie Tich Bandcamp: Katie Tich UAP (Dr. Rainer Aschemeier) Instagram: @uapretrosynth Spotify: UAP Facebook: UAP RetroSynth YouTube: UAP RetroSynth Channel Bandcamp: UAP Music ROSEBUDTHORN Instagram: @rosebudthornmusic Spotify: ROSEBUDTHORN WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT WITH DERRINGER DISCOVERIES More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/093 Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries - A Music Adventure Podcast!

    43 min
  5. 11/26/2025

    Hayley Reardon - The Folk-Pop Storyteller Extraordinaire (EP92)

    In this episode, Team Derringer catches up with Hayley Reardon, a critically acclaimed folk-pop singer-songwriter whose soul-stirring lyrics and globe-trotting performances have captivated listeners worldwide. Known for her warm, storytelling voice and her extensive tours across Europe, Hayley joins us fresh off a string of U.S. shows in New York and Massachusetts before heading back overseas - especially to Germany, where she’s a frequent performer. ABOUT HAYLEY REARDON Hayley Reardon is a singer-songwriter and storyteller in the truest sense. Raised north of Boston, she spent three years in Nashville before taking her music global, including a six-month artist residency in Dachau, Germany. Her music has been described as "brilliantly moving folk/pop with a lyrical depth and soul" by Performer Magazine. IN THIS EPISODE Discover how Hayley’s international career lets her record and perform alongside legendary artists such as Lori McKenna (co-writer of “Girl Crush”), Anaïs Mitchell (creator of “Hadestown”), Rodney Crowell, and Ed Sheeran. Yes, the Ed Sheeran - the global superstar with over 92 million monthly Spotify listeners. Hayley reflects on these powerful collaborations and what they mean for her artistic growth. Most recently, she made waves by performing at Ed Sheeran’s "Old Phone Pub" pop-up in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Her latest projects, recorded in Barcelona with Spanish collaborators, showcase her evolution as a world-class artist. Hayley’s journey is packed with authenticity, adventure, and soul - making this episode essential for anyone who loves indie and folk-pop, gripping artist stories, and the energy of live performance. Tune in for team banter, rich musical analysis, and plenty of surprises. And if you attend one of her shows, be sure to tell her Team Derringer sent you! PLAYLIST Check out the Derringer Discoveries playlist for this episode: Hayley Reardon - Extraordinaire. WHERE TO FIND HAYLEY Hayley Reardon: www.hayleyreardon.com Tour Dates: www.hayleyreardon.com/tour Hayley on Instagram:  www.instagram.com/hayleyreardon Hayley on Facebook: www.facebook.com/hayleyreardonmusic MUSIC AND PLANET FUNDRAISER   Help us support four different environmental initiatives: tree planting in the Southwestern [UK], ecological restoration in Suffolk [UK], wildlife rehabilitation in Michigan [US], and solar energy and education in North Carolina [US].   Donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/conservingourfuturefundraiser   WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/92 Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries!

    27 min
  6. 11/02/2025

    Anne Leighton Returns with More Rock Legends (EP91)

    ANNE LEIGHTON RETURNS (WITH MORE ROCK LEGENDS) She's back! After an incredible conversation in Episode 90, newly minted "Honorary Derringer" Anne Leighton rejoins Team Derringer at the table for Part 2. As a veteran music publicist, artist representative, poet, and public speaker, Anne (of Leighton Media, Music Services, Motivation) has championed some of the most respected names in music. In this episode, Anne pulls the curtain back even further, sharing insights and personal stories about three more artists from her rock and roll stable... including the namesake of this very podcast! IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL HEAR: Rick Derringer: The Namesake | We finally do it. We’re talking about the man himself, the namesake for Team Derringer, the legendary Rick Derringer. While Anne didn't formally publicize Rick, she shares her notable personal connection to the rock icon who gave us "Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo." We trace his career from the #1 hit "Hang On Sloopy" with The McCoys to his production work for Edgar Winter ("Frankenstein") and even "Weird Al" Yankovic's Grammy-winning hits. Renaissance: The Annie Haslam Era | Next, Anne discusses the symphonic-rock legends Renaissance. We clarify the connection to the original Yardbirds-era lineup (featuring Jim McCarty) and dive into the iconic version of the band fronted by the ethereal vocals of Annie Haslam. Anne shares her work with the group responsible for prog-rock classic "Carpet of the Sun." Joe Deninzon & Stratospheerius: The Future of Prog | To cap it off, Anne introduces us to an artist who has been called "The Jimi Hendrix of the electric violin." Joe Deninzon is a force of nature who leads the progressive rock quartet Stratospheerius. We discuss his incredible journey, which has recently led him to his biggest gig yet: joining the legendary rock band Kansas as their new violinist, bringing his energy to timeless classics like "Carry on Wayward Son" and "Dust in the Wind." DON’T MISS ANNE LEIGHTON’S FREE MUSIC & CATS SYMPOSIUM Anne invites listeners to her two-day online symposium that explores the melodic and mysterious bond between musicians and cats. The event features segments on Jethro Tull, Renaissance, and Grand Funk Railroad’s cat rescue projects. Register for free at: www.eventbrite.de/e/music-and-cats-online-symposium-tickets-1595714708649?aff=oddtdtcreator PLAYLISTS As promised: Spotify's Billons Club playist! Check out the Derringer Discoveries playlist for this episode: Anne Leighton Rocks. WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/091 Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries!

    31 min
  7. 10/12/2025

    Rock Legends & Grammy Winners with Publicist Anne Leighton (EP90)

    Ever wonder who helps legendary musicians share their stories with the world? In this episode, Team Derringer (Laura, Alton, and Paul) chats with the incredible Anne Leighton, a top-tier music publicist, artist representative, poet, and public speaker from NYC. Anne pulls back the curtain on her fascinating career and gives us the inside scoop on what it’s like to work with some of the biggest names in music. She also shares tales of writing for top music mags and the art -- and heart -- of championing artists from every corner of rock and pop.  The group unpacks what a publicist actually does (think equal parts strategist, storyteller, and stubbornness), how long promoter-artist relationships can last, and why publicity is marathon work dressed up like a sprint. The hosts keep it snappy with playful banter and music snippets that prove the point. Get ready for a walk through rock and roll history! Anne shares stories about her work with the iconic Jethro Tull and its flute-wielding frontman, Ian Anderson, the masterminds behind classics like "Aqualung" and the jaw-droppingly long 43-minute song, "Thick as a Brick." Then we groove to the 70s with tales of the band Orleans, who gave us the timeless hits "Dance with Me" and "Still the One." Plus, you'll hear some amazing trivia, like how Orleans' leader, John Hall, took a detour from music to serve in the U.S. Congress. We cap it off with the brilliant, Grammy-winning trio, The String Revolution, and discuss their stunning instrumental covers of hits like Michael Jackson's "Billy Jean" and Ozzy Osbourne's "Crazy Train." This conversation was so good, we had to make it a two-parter! After accepting the title of Honorary Derringer, Anne agreed to come back in a few weeks to talk about three more amazing artists! WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT More info & show notes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/090 Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries!

    23 min
  8. 09/21/2025

    The Legendary Jim McCarty of The Yardbirds (EP89)

    Dive into a legendary episode of Derringer Discoveries as Paul Derringer, Alton Derringer, and Dan Friedman (a.k.a. Dan Derringer) welcome the iconic Jim McCarty -- founding member and drummer of The Yardbirds and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee -- to the show. This episode unearths gripping stories behind the band's evolution and their pivotal role in shaping rock history, with Jim sharing insider tales and reflecting on 62 years in the music world. If you love classic rock, music legends, and fascinating conversations, this episode is essential listening. MEET JIM McCARTY: LIVING YARDBIRDS LEGEND Jim McCarty has played with every Yardbirds lineup since 1963, and is the only constant member of the band. He shares stories from The Yardbirds’ formative years, the British music scene, and personal memories you won’t find anywhere else. Hear directly from the architect of the sound that launched legends like Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page. HIT COUNTDOWN: THE YARDBIRDS’ GREATEST SONGS Enjoy a countdown of Jim’s Top 5 Yardbirds tracks: "For Your Love": The Yardbirds’ first Top 40 hit, featuring Eric Clapton and Jim’s inside story on its success and impact. "Heart Full of Soul": Jeff Beck’s soaring riffs and Jim’s drum magic -- plus behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the studio, including Jimmy Page’s cameo. "Shapes of Things": A Rock & Roll Hall of Fame classic co-written by Jim, revealing the song’s lasting influence and live performance memories. "Happenings Ten Years Time Ago": Featuring both Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page on guitar -- and future Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones. Discover the creation of this groundbreaking song and the origins of “The New Yardbirds.” Jim’s special pick for #1 -- a personal selection from outside The Yardbirds with the story behind it. EXCLUSIVE CONVERSATIONS & MUSIC HISTORY Insights into Eric Clapton’s departure, studio sessions, touring tales, and stories about Led Zeppelin’s formation as “The New Yardbirds.” Jim discusses his upcoming plans, touring, recording, and offers a heartfelt shout-out. Don’t miss Jim McCarty, a true rock original, sharing unforgettable stories and songs. Hit play for a music adventure! WHERE TO LISTEN & CONNECT Episode's Spotify Playlist: The Yardbirds Inspired Website: www.derringerdiscoveries.com Theme Song: Your Sister's Room by Ho Jo Fro. Episodes: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/episodes. Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, and BlueSky. Newsletter: Stay up to date by signing up for our newsletter.  Thank you for listening to Derringer Discoveries!

    33 min

About

Get ready for a fast-paced, witty ride through the world of music! Hosted by Team Derringer—Laura, Alton, and Paul—this podcast dives into the stories behind the songs and the artists who create them. From legendary icons to rising indie stars (many of whom join us on the show), we explore the music that moves us all. Now in our 5th year and streaming in over 30 countries, Derringer Discoveries is your backstage pass to a global music journey. New episodes drop twice a month, packed with sharp commentary, music snippets, and plenty of surprises. 🎧 Subscribe to our free newsletter and never miss a beat: www.derringerdiscoveries.com/subscribe