Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair

Zach Blair
  • 4.8 (34)
  • Music Commentary
  • Updated Weekly

Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair is a podcast about guitar players that aren't on the covers of the guitar magazines but our host, Zach Blair thinks they should be. Each episode we'll have discussions with players about their motivations, intentions and, best of all, their gear. We'll talk about their careers and how they express themselves in the constantly changing world of guitar music. Anti-Heroes is hosted by Zach Blair, a lifelong guitar obsessive with a career spanning almost thirty years. From his early days in Hagfish that he started with his brother on to the world renowned shock rock musical theater that is GWAR to currently recording and touring in Chicago's Rise Against for the last 15 years. Zach is still searching when it's comes to guitar playing and always will be. Maybe he'll find some answers right here on Anti-Heroes.

  1. Aug 13

    JOHN CONGLETON-PRODUCER-ENGINEER

    John and Zach reconnect over their shared musical history, discussing their experiences in the punk scene, the influences that shaped their guitar playing, and the evolution of Congleton's band, The Paper Chase. They explore the unique musical identity that comes from their Texas roots, the importance of artistic merit over gear, and the personal journeys that led them to where they are today. They discuss coming up together in the same scene, hanging out and playing guitar. The discussion highlights the hard work and dedication required in the music industry, as well as the emotional and personal aspects of being a musician. They discuss Johns journey from a touring musician to one of the most prolific, in-demand ,genre-defying producers today. John Congleton Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars KINGSTON UNION- THEE PLACE FOR "THE WINO". THE ORIGINAL SKATE PUNK SHOE.

    JOHN CONGLETON-PRODUCER-ENGINEER

  2. Jul 30

    COTTER PHINNEY-MEDIUM

    Zach talks to Cotter Phinney, the frontman of the band Medium. They explore the origins of Medium, the influences that shaped Cotter's musical journey, and the unique aesthetic of the band, including their theatrical performances. They delve into the lo-fi music scene, the egg punk genre, and the impact of various musical influences, including jazz fusion. Cotter tells us about meeting Chris Poland from Megadeth and how it influenced his guitar playing. Cotter shares his journey of musical discovery and the challenges of finding his unique sound. They get into the importance of gear is in shaping a musician's identity, as well as the excitement surrounding upcoming projects and releases from Cotter's band, Medium, and his record label, Psychic Reader. MEDIUM PSYCHIC READER Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars KINGSTON UNION- THEE PLACE FOR "THE WINO". THE ORIGINAL SKATE PUNK SHOE. Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    COTTER PHINNEY-MEDIUM

  3. Jul 16

    ORVILLE NEELEY III-SPIRITUAL CRAMP-OBN III

    Zach talks with one of his immediate-circle-besties, Orville Neeley III, as they explore their shared musical history, influences, and the evolution of Orville's career as a multi-instrumentalist. They discuss Orville's journey from Austin's vibrant music scene to joining the band Spiritual Cramp, touching on the dynamics of being in multiple bands and the creative process behind their music. The conversation also delves into gear talk, particularly focusing on Orville's Ovation guitar, and reflections on lost gear and future musical endeavors. They chat about all things OBN3!! From Bad Sports to Radioactivity to OBN3s to A GIANT DOG to Spiritual Cramp to...well you get it, just tune in!! This one is long overdue! SPIRTUAL CRAMP Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    ORVILLE NEELEY III-SPIRITUAL CRAMP-OBN III

  4. Jul 2

    BROOKS HARLAN-BIG CRUNCH AMPLIFIERS-WAR ON WOMEN-JAWBOX-BURINING AIRLINES

    Zach talks with Brooks Harlan, a talented musician and amp builder, who shares his musical journey from El Paso to Baltimore. Brooks shares his background in music, the inception of Big Crunch Amplifiers and the formation of the band War On Women. He emphasizes the importance of quality sound in music production and his passion for creating custom amplifiers tailored to musicians needs. Zach and Brooks discuss the long-awaited release of this new record and his excitement for the upcoming shows, The two talk about his collaborations with Jay Robins where he shares his journey of joining Jawbox and the challenges and joys of playing with Burning Airlines. The two chat about the unique features of Brooks’ custom guitar and what and dream that experience has been. Big Crunch Amplifiers WAR ON WOMEN Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Schecter Guitars Dunlop

    BROOKS HARLAN-BIG CRUNCH AMPLIFIERS-WAR ON WOMEN-JAWBOX-BURINING AIRLINES

  5. Jun 18

    MARK RYAN AND JEFF BURKE-The Marked Men

    Zach sits down with close friends and fellow Texans, Mark Ryan and Jeff Burke, members of the influential punk band Marked Men. They discuss the band's legacy, their impact on the punk scene, and the vibrant music culture of Denton, Texas. The trio reflects on their musical journeys, collaborations, and the importance of instrumentation in their sound. They also touch on the prolific nature of their creativity and the various side projects that have emerged from their time in Marked Men. They delve into gear, specifically the wonders of Danelectro guitars and how important that instrument has been to them both on cultivating their sounds. influences, current. They share stories about the challenges of live performances, and the evolution of their sound over the years. The three touch on their studio experiences and the unique signature sounds they create, highlighting their passion for music and the camaraderie that comes with it. The Marked Men Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    MARK RYAN AND JEFF BURKE-The Marked Men

  6. Jun 4

    MIKE SCHLEIBAUM-DARKEST HOUR

    Zach sits down with Mike Schleibaum of the mighty DARKEST HOUR. They explore the evolution of metal music, guitar gear, band dynamics, and the philosophy of artistic influence. They share personal stories, technical insights, and reflections on legacy, collaboration, and the future of music. They discuss all things metal from Pantera to Gothenberg. My favorite two pull-quotes: 'PLAY BETTER' and 'FLOYD ROSE IS MY RELIGION'!! Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    MIKE SCHLEIBAUM-DARKEST HOUR

  7. May 21

    NIKKI POST-IN LIEU

    Nikki shares her early relationship with music, how it developed her guitar playing and how she is approaching touring the new album Hooligan, from her band IN LIEU. The discussion moves to importance of genuine musical expression over social media trends, highlighting the significance of live performances and personal connections in building a fanbase. Zach and Nikki discuss the profound impact of live music, the significance of personal gear choices, and the journey of creating music. They delve into Nikki's first guitar, her current equipment, and the influences that shape her sound. The two touch on the challenges faced with gear mishaps and the excitement surrounding the release of the new album. Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    NIKKI POST-IN LIEU

  8. May 7

    DONIVAN BLAIR-TOADIES

    Today I embark on my first 2nd!! My brother stops by again to chew the fat and update us all on the exciting things happening in his world. We look at his musical journey, his exploration of bass tones, the evolution of the Toadies, and the influence of legendary producer Steve Albini. We discuss the significance of musical identity and the creative process behind the Toadies' new album, highlighting the intricate relationship between musicians and their craft. We also discuss our experiences in the music industry, including navigating band dynamics, recording, and the influence of Paul McCartney. We talk about Doni's new podcast Why Bass which explores the world of bass players and their unique position in rock n roll. He share's insights about his upcoming album and tour and great news.....unlike last time, we do not get into a fight about the age of a vintage bass. Why Bass Podcast Toadies Toadies Live Our partners help make this show happen! Please give them a visit. Unleash the full force of you guitar and bass set up with our friends at Jim Dunlop. Jim Dunlop offers the absolute BEST in pedals, effects, picks and strings and more. Go to Jim Dunlop Get you music out there with Distrokid. 30% off here. Distrokid For 50 years, Schecter Guitars has pushed the limits of craftsmanship, innovation, and tone—building instruments trusted by players who demand more from their sound. This milestone celebrates a legacy forged on stages and in studios worldwide, while looking boldly ahead to the next era of performance-driven design. Have your mind blown here. Schecter Guitars Ep sponsored by Kingston Union. Your go to for the original Wino shoe. Mentioned in this episode: Dunlop Schecter Guitars

    DONIVAN BLAIR-TOADIES
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Trailers

4.8
out of 5
34 Ratings

About

Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair is a podcast about guitar players that aren't on the covers of the guitar magazines but our host, Zach Blair thinks they should be. Each episode we'll have discussions with players about their motivations, intentions and, best of all, their gear. We'll talk about their careers and how they express themselves in the constantly changing world of guitar music. Anti-Heroes is hosted by Zach Blair, a lifelong guitar obsessive with a career spanning almost thirty years. From his early days in Hagfish that he started with his brother on to the world renowned shock rock musical theater that is GWAR to currently recording and touring in Chicago's Rise Against for the last 15 years. Zach is still searching when it's comes to guitar playing and always will be. Maybe he'll find some answers right here on Anti-Heroes.

Information

  • Creator
    Zach Blair
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    75
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair
  • Show Website
    Anti-Heroes with Zach Blair

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