Dive Bar Music Club

Sloane Spencer
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MUSIC COMMENTARY

Dive Bar Music Club: low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, your new favorite monthly hangout where deep music knowledge meets dive bar vibes. Each episode, a rotating cast of indie music lifers (record store owners, radio hosts, touring musicians, venue bookers, photographers, and more) grab a drink, hop online, and swap notes on the three albums they can’t stop spinning. It’s not a review show; it’s a conversation. A cozy, no-gatekeeping zone for the kind of people who make playlists for every mood, still buy records, and love to discover that one incredible band hiding in the liner notes. We’re heavy on new releases, but old favorites, hidden gems, and "how did I miss this?" moments are always on the table. Whether you work in music, live for your local scene, or just want cool friends to talk tunes with, Dive Bar Music Club is your invitation to pull up a stool, pour a drink, and nerd out. No VIP pass required.

  1. A Good Day for The Clash, The Ann Powers Litmus Test, and Just Like Our Drinks, We'll Take Our Country Neat

    4D AGO

    A Good Day for The Clash, The Ann Powers Litmus Test, and Just Like Our Drinks, We'll Take Our Country Neat

    Summary It seems like it's a good time to play The Clash. Dive Bar Music Club is back and digging a little deeper this time. We’re diving into the crossroads of music and social awareness, sparked by the recent federal violence in Minneapolis. I’m Sloane Spencer, joined by Chad Cochran, the Nelson Gullett, and Charles Hale. A couple of us are slightly under the weather this week, but we're psyched to chat about what we're listening to lately. We’re still swapping our latest musical obsessions and what’s been living on our playlists, but today the conversation carries a little more weight. We’re talking about how music shows up when things get tense; how it pushes back, how it brings people together, and how artists turn frustration, grief, and defiance into something powerful and unifying. At the same time, we’re not forgetting what music also does best: giving us a breather, a release, a place to land when the world feels loud. So settle in with us for thoughtful, unfiltered, interesting music conversation. Catch Our Tastemaker Playlists Apple MusicTidal Bands Featured in Episode 3 Iron ChicAmelia DayThe MenzingersMon RovîaOff With Their HeadsKaren E. ReynoldsThe Third MindW8ing4UFOs Venues and Festivals Mentioned Albino Skunk Music Festival, Greer, SCBarley's, Knoxville, TNBig Ears Festival, Knoxville, TNBlue Plate Special, WDVX, Knoxville, TNli...

    1 hr
  2. Shamelessly Tagging Becky Warren on IG, Porter Wagoner On Psychedelics, and Evidently This Is a Philly Rock Podcast

    FEB 5

    Shamelessly Tagging Becky Warren on IG, Porter Wagoner On Psychedelics, and Evidently This Is a Philly Rock Podcast

    Summary This week, we’re disappearing down some serious rabbit holes. From the casual Aussie swagger of Bel Air Lip Bombs to the psychedelic sway of Alex Chilton’s cover of “Rubber Room,” the episode is a love letter to overlooked tracks that quietly demand a place in your rotation. Charles Hale, Sloane Spencer, Rachel Cholst, and Kim Ware come together like a carefully sequenced mixtape, swapping stories about their latest musical fixations and music Venn diagrams that overlap way too much and not at all. Punk-leaning jazz that used to be in a duo with a noted blues musician, and a lot of tiny touchpoints connecting us to the music. So throw on your headphones, pour yourself a drink, and sink into the rich, unpredictable soundscape of the Dive Bar Music Club. Catch Our Tastemaker Playlists Apple MusicTidal Bands Featured in Episode 2 Alex Chilton (Big Star, The Box Tops)Audrey HobertBecky WarrenThe Belair Lip BombsFustGladieJohanna RoseMinus FiveValerie June Venues Mentioned The 40 Watt Club, Athens, GA The Regulars in Episode 2 Rachel CholstCharles Halea href="https://divebarmusicclub.com/episode/dive-bar-music-club-sloane-spencer" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    39 min
  3. Built-In Ice Makers in Our Fridges, Adult Taylor Swift Parties, and Bar Coffee

    JAN 20

    Built-In Ice Makers in Our Fridges, Adult Taylor Swift Parties, and Bar Coffee

    Summary Slide into the booth for a relaxed hang chatting about great music with Rachel Cholst, Charles Hale, and Sloane Spencer about what’s been on repeat lately, swapping thoughts on everything from the infectious indie rock of Weakened Friends to the timeless soul of Mavis Staples. Along the way, they shine a light on artists like SG Goodman, Florry, and Fust, talking about how these musicians tell powerful stories through their songs. They chat about live shows versus records, contrasting Billy Allen + The Pollies with Bass Battery. You’ll also hear some fun tales from the record store world, including a Taylor Swift listening party that turned into joyful chaos with kids, friendship bracelets, and plenty of laughs. Pour yourself a drink, get comfortable, and enjoy the kind of music chat that feels like catching up with friends, and hopefully inspires your next favorite listen. Never let the truth get in the way of a good story. Playlist Apple MusicTidal Bands Featured in Episode 1 Bass BatteryBilly Allen + The PolliesFlorryFustSG GoodmanMavis StaplesWeakened Friends(We never got around to chatting about Lene Lovich and Marah, also on our lists.) Venues Mentioned 40 Watt, Athens, GA9:30 Club, Washington, DCBowery Ballroom, NYCspan class="ql-ui"...

    46 min

  4. JAN 2 · BONUS

    The Regulars: Caitlin Cary Cheers Change, Shifting from Music to Art

    Summary Caitlin Cary joins us for a thoughtful and downright inspiring chat about her creative evolution, from the indie rock trenches to the calm, tactile world of fabric collage art, which she affectionately calls her “needle prints.” We dig into how this shift has opened up new ways for her to express herself, offering both artistic freedom and a healthy bit of distance from the grind of life on stage. Caitlin also gets reflective about her roots in Raleigh, North Carolina, the places, people, and memories that shaped her, and how the city’s constant transformation nudged her to start preserving its essence through her artwork. Of course, it wouldn’t be a conversation among musicians without a few good laughs: we revisit her whirlwind years as co-founder of Whiskeytown alongside Ryan Adams, swap stories about the unpredictable charm of dive-bar gigs and bartending shifts, and touch on what it means to keep creating, no matter the medium. So, pour yourself something good, settle in, and join us as we explore the crossroads of music and visual art with Caitlin Cary. She’s full of sharp insight, warmth, and a few recommendations you won’t want to miss. Bio Chapters 00:15 - The Shift in Artistic Expression02:55 - Transitioning from Art to Music04:14 - The Journey into Music and Art06:32 - Navigating the Craft Cocktail World08:38 - The Excitement of Music Recommendations Show Notes In this episode of Dive Bar Music Club, we sit down with Caitlin Cary, a former touring musician turned visual artist, for a heartfelt conversation about her journey from the indie music scene to creating stunning fabric collage art, which she calls "needle prints." Caitlin opens up about how she made the transition away from music and found solace in a new form of artistic expression. We explore the personal connection she has to her hometown of Raleigh, North Carolina, and how the ever-changing landscape of the city inspired her to start documenting its most beloved landmarks through her art. Caitlin shares how this shift in focus has given her the creative distance she needed while still maintaining a fulfilling artistic career. From her early days as a classically trained violinist to her unexpected entry into the world of indie rock with Whiskeytown, Caitlin's journey into music was as unpredictable as it was transformative. She reflects on the chaotic, yet rewarding years spent in the music industry, the quirks of dive bars, and what it means to live the life of a working musician. We also talk about the humble, yet vital, venues that played a huge role in her life, both as a performer and a bartender, including Raleigh's own Humble Pie and The Pour House Music Hall. And of course, we discuss Caitlin's recent achievements, including having her artwork featured in the North Carolina Museum of Art, a long-awaited dream come true. Listen in for: Caitlin's transition from music to visual artThe inspiration behind her "needle prints" and how they connect to her rootsStories from her time touring with Ryan Adams and bartending in dive barsspan class="ql-ui"...

    10 min

  5. JAN 2 · BONUS

    The Regulars: Chad Cochran AKA CowtownChad, Music Photographer and Visual Artist

    Bio Chad Cochran Ohio based music and potrait photographer. Chad's Website Chad on YouTube @cowtownchad on Instagram Chad's Facebook page Summary Chad Cochran, better known as CowtownChad, takes us on a laid-back journey through the vibrant world of independent music in this episode of Dive Bar Music Club. We dive into his experiences as a live music and portrait photographer, where he seamlessly transitions between capturing electrifying live performances and intimate backstage moments. Chad's love for Americana music runs deep, and he shares tales from his time at iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and the Beachland Ballroom, where the magic of music truly comes alive. Throughout our chat, we explore the evolution of his artistic journey, from a punk rock kid to a sought-after photographer, and how those gritty dive bars laid the foundation for honing his craft. So, grab your favorite drink and join us for a candid conversation that’s sure to resonate with music lovers and aspiring artists alike! Show Notes Welcome back to another laid-back session of Dive Bar Music Club, the low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. This week, we’re pulling up a stool with someone who's seen it all from behind the lens: music photographer and filmmaker Chad Cochran, aka CowtownChad. Here’s what went down: Meet Chad Cochran: portrait photographer, music video filmmaker, and the guy behind the camera at some of your favorite Americana shows.Chad’s journey from punk metal kid to the Americana scene (thanks to a cowboy hat and a certain host).He’s worked with big names and captured quiet moments, both live on stage and backstage at festivals. This summer’s lineup included: Nelsonville Music FestivalPickin’ in the BackwoodsHealing AppalachiaWoody Guthrie Folk Festival, where Chad was also a guest speaker on mental health in music. Trivia Night: Fun fact: Chad didn’t pick up a camera until he was 40. Now at 53, he's built a career shooting festivals, portraits, and raw emotional moments in music.His first band? A “horrible” high school group called Stonehenge. But it laid the foundation for a creative path back to music decades later.Favorite venues? The iconic Ryman Auditorium tops the list, but the Beachland Ballroom in Cleveland is where he honed his chops in tricky, low-light dives.Why small venues matter for music photographers: they’re gritty, they’re real, and they’re the perfect training ground before the big stages. Where to find him online: Instagram, Threads, Facebook, and TikTokli...

    7 min

  6. JAN 2 · BONUS

    The Regulars: Nelson Gullet of WDVX from College Radio to Americana Guru

    Join us as we dive deep into the eclectic world of independent music with the one and only Nelson Gullett from WDVX in Knoxville, Tennessee. We’re not just sipping drinks; we’re pouring over the rich tapestry of sounds that connect the past and present of roots music. Nelson shares his journey from college radio to crafting a show that showcases diverse voices and classic influences, all while keeping it fresh and engaging. We’ll explore the venues that shaped his musical palate and, trust me, you’ll want to hear about his first encounter with Kasey Chambers that sparked a love affair with Americana music. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s unravel the threads of music that define us in this laid-back, high-taste gathering of music aficionados. Nelson Gullett Nelson was born in the deep dark hills of Eastern Kentucky in a town called Paintsville... just a few miles away from Loretta Lynn's cabin on the hill. He initially cut his musical teeth on pop artists of the 80s. Somewhere along the way, though, his mother instilled a love for songwriters such as Paul Simon and Jim Croce while his dad exposed him to early rockabilly rebels and the pioneers of rock and roll. Nelson was eventually introduced to the band R.E.M., and their blend of southern folk/rock in high school. In college, it was the Dave Matthews Band’s brand of roots-based jams that provoked him to drive for hours just to get to the next show. In college, he became fully engrossed in Americana music and stated hosting Americana Crossroads on Morehead State Public Radio. Nelson moved to Knoxville and started working for WDVX in 2006, where he now serves as Development Director and host of the weekly Americana Pulse radio show. Nelson's Website Nelson on YouTube Catch Our Other Network Podcasts Country Fried Rock -- the 2009-2020 archives resurrected, every FridaySleep with Rock Stars -- the Gen X sleep podcast, every other TuesdayToss a few in our Tip Jar indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast, Dive Bar Music Club, independent music podcast, Nelson Gullett interview, Americana music, WDVX Knoxville, community radio, music knowledge, music trends, roots music, music recommendations, live music venues, music history, music exploration, music fandom, music appreciation, folk music, bluegrass music, music festivals, supporting local radio, music culture Chapters 00:12 - Introducing the Cast of Characters01:37 - Nelson's Musical Journeyspan class="ql-ui"

    10 min

  7. JAN 2 · BONUS

    The Regulars: Rachel Cholst, Beyond Adobe & Teardrops and Rainbow Rodeo

    Summary This week at the Dive Bar Music Club, we meet one of the Regulars, the incredible Rachel Cholst, who’s here to take us on a deep dive into the colorful world of queer country and Americana. Get ready for some surprising insights and music recommendations, including jazz for non-historians. As we sip on our metaphorical cocktails and kick back, Rachel Cholst helps us explore the magic of live music venues and how they create a sense of community, especially for those of us who don’t fit the cis het white dude roots music scene mold. And if you're a fan of Lilith Fair 90s vibes, you're in for a treat, as we also chat about how the past has shaped the music we love today. Dive in to broad influences from peers to NPR with Rachel Cholst. Links Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club 03:12 Entering the Music World 04:53 The Intersection of Music and Identity 07:23 The Importance of Community Spaces in Live Music 09:53 Exploring the Music Scene in Upper Manhattan 13:17 Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club Takeaways Vibrant, Inclusive Vibes: Dive Bar Music Club is the ultimate hangout for music lovers of all kinds, where everyone can share their current obsessions and discover fresh new tunesCommunity & Live Venues Matter: We chat about why live music venues are more than just places to hear music. They create a sense of community for both fans and artists, and that’s what makes the music scene so special.Queer Country & Americana: We dive into genres like queer country and Americana, exploring how they reflect personal stories and cultural shifts, making for some pretty deep and powerful music.Witty Banter & Musical History: Expect fun conversations mixed with deep dives into music history. We’ll navigate how genres and identities blend together to shape today’s music scene. Recommended If You Like Dive Bar Music Club, Rachel Cholst, Americana music, queer country, 90s alt rock, indie music podcasts, emerging songwriters, underground music scenes, live music venues, music communities, music recommendations, music reviews, jazz influences, Southern rock, intersectionality in music, music blogging, music playlists, artist highlights, cultural music discussions, music nerd culture, Yahoo, Pandora, No Depression, Good Country, Two Cow Garage, Karen and the Sorrows, Rainbow Rodeo, Penny Jo's, Rockwood Music Hall, Lilith Fair, Bad Bunny, Alt Latino, Adobe and Teardrops Transcript Speaker A 00:00:00.960 - 00:00:05.120 Hey, everybody, this is Rachel Cholst, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club. Speaker B 00:00:05.760 - 00:00:52.390 Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the guest hosts drop in and out, but the opinions are always passionate and the playlists loud. It's like cheers if everyone at the bar had a strong take on 90s alt rock or a suspicious number of burned CDs. Around our table you'll find an emerging touring songwriter, a former cult band favorite whose work since then is even more interesting, a portrait photographer with a not so secret metal penchant, a record store owner who learned about Swifties the hard way, a retired folk singer who regrets nothing, and a zine maker with more cool music...

    14 min

  8. JAN 2 · BONUS

    The Regulars: Amanda Miles, Former Music Writer and Discerning Fan

    Summary Amanda Miles joins us for a spirited chat about the magic of music and the venues that bring it to life. We're diving deep into the heart of what makes places like the Tabernacle in Atlanta and the Ryman in Nashville such special spots for music lovers. It's not just about the shows; it’s about the stories, the experiences, and that electric feeling when your favorite artist hits the stage. As Amanda shares her journey from a music writer to a passionate fan, we explore how music connects us on a human level, whether it’s the tunes that get us through tough times or the ones that make us rage. So, grab your drink of choice, kick back, and let’s indulge in some good music talk that’ll make you want to dig through your playlists for that perfect jam. Amands Miles Former entertainment writer/blogger, Currently serve as a nonprofit executive, leading development strategy at New Disabled South and is a self-described music nerd. @Alabamapinesatl on Instagram Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Dive Bar Music Club00:48 - The Journey from Music Writer to Music Fan02:21 - Exploring Favorite Music Venues03:57 - The History of the Tabernacle Venue04:36 - Connecting with Creativity: The Journey of Amanda Miles05:20 - The Power of Music Connection indie music podcast, music nerd podcast, underground music podcast, music roundtable podcast, best new indie bands, independent music podcast, music discovery podcast, alternative music podcast, podcast for music lovers, dive bar music podcast, low key music podcast, deep cut music discussion, music tastemakers podcast, music festival discoveries, music zine culture, DIY music scene, touring musician stories, hidden gem bands, vinyl collector podcast, music conversations podcast, , Dive Bar Music Club, Amanda Miles podcast, 90s alt rock, music fan community, concert experiences, Atlanta music scene, music writing, favorite music venues, Tabernacle Atlanta, Ryman Auditorium, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, indie music recommendations, music playlists, music discussions, sharing music passion, listening to new music, music nerd culture, attending live shows, music fan connections, upcoming novel about music Transcript Speaker A 00:00:00.320 - 00:00:03.680 This is Amanda Miles, and you're listening to Dive Bar Music Club. Speaker B 00:00:04.960 - 00:00:47.720 Welcome to the Dive Bar Music Club podcast, where the guest hosts drop in and out, but the opinions are always passionate and the playlists loud. It's like cheers if everyone at the bar had a strong take on 90s alt rock or a suspicious number of burned CDs. We're all just here to share what we're currently obsessed with and maybe convince someone that, yes, that weird Icelandic synth folk band is worth a listen. Okay, that last one's probably me. Sloan Spencer. It's Dive Bar Music Club. Low key, high taste. Happy hour for music nerds. Amanda Miles, we are so glad to have you be part of Dive Bar Music Club. What are you doing in the world of music these days? Speaker A 00:00:48.120 - 00:01:07.010 Well, I'm a former entertainment writer. I would say I'm retired music writer, and I am just now a music fan. Now I'm attending concerts and listening to as many albums as I can. But I formerly wrote for Atlanta Music Guide, Inside Atlanta, and just love attending shows now. Speaker B 00:01:07.730 - 00:01:12.530 Ah. So what's kind of the longer version? How did you end up in music writing? Speaker A 00:01:13.890 - 00:01:40.600 So I am a huge music fan. I've always been a...

    6 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Dive Bar Music Club: low key, high taste happy hour for music nerds. Welcome to Dive Bar Music Club, your new favorite monthly hangout where deep music knowledge meets dive bar vibes. Each episode, a rotating cast of indie music lifers (record store owners, radio hosts, touring musicians, venue bookers, photographers, and more) grab a drink, hop online, and swap notes on the three albums they can’t stop spinning. It’s not a review show; it’s a conversation. A cozy, no-gatekeeping zone for the kind of people who make playlists for every mood, still buy records, and love to discover that one incredible band hiding in the liner notes. We’re heavy on new releases, but old favorites, hidden gems, and "how did I miss this?" moments are always on the table. Whether you work in music, live for your local scene, or just want cool friends to talk tunes with, Dive Bar Music Club is your invitation to pull up a stool, pour a drink, and nerd out. No VIP pass required.

Information

  • Creator
    Sloane Spencer
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Sloane Spencer
  • Show Website
    Dive Bar Music Club