CORE

Andy McNamara

5.0 (1)
MUSIC INTERVIEWS
UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Core is a weekly interview and music show on Code Zero Radio WCZR. The show airs live Saturday mornings from 9-10am CST. We focus on artists from the Fox Cities area of Wisconsin. You can listen to the show live by searching "Code Zero Radio" in the TuneIn app.

6D AGO

Honeytone Recording Studio

Step inside Honeytone Studios, one of the Fox Valley's most unique recording studios, housed in a historic Victorian mansion in Appleton, Wisconsin. Join Andy McNamara from Code Zero Radio's Fox Cities Core as he interviews Patrick Boland and Jeff Patlingrao, the talented team behind this world-class analog recording facility.In this in-depth studio tour and interview, discover: The story behind Honeytone's iconic Neve 5088 console Over 500 vintage effects pedals and curated gear collection The historic mansion setting with on-site lodging for artists Analog recording philosophy: intention over perfection Pre-production process and artist collaboration Recording credits including The Head and the Heart, Dusk, Spy Spy, and more How Patrick and Jeff help artists achieve their unique visionABOUT HONEYTONE STUDIOS:Honeytone is a destination recording studio in Appleton, WI, specializing in analog recording with modern digital integration. Founded by Patrick in 2012, the studio features vintage recording equipment, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and expert production from Patrick and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Portland (originally from NYC). Artists can stay on-site while recording in this inspiring creative space.SERVICES OFFERED: Analog & Digital Recording Mixing & Mastering Pre-Production Consultation Session Musicians Available Guitar Tech & Repair Services On-Site Lodging for Touring ArtistsCONTACT HONEYTONE STUDIOS:🌐 Website: honeytonemusic.com📸 Instagram: @honeytonemusicgFEATURED ARTISTS & PROJECTS:The Head and the Heart, Dusk, Spy Spy, Cedar Well, Frank Anderson, Julia Blair, and many more Wisconsin and regional artists.0:00 Introduction to Honeytone Studios1:25 Patrick and Jeff introduce themselves2:09 Patrick's background in radio and broadcast journalism3:05 How Jeff moved from New York to Wisconsin5:03 First impressions of Honeytone Studios5:21 Finding the Victorian mansion location7:09 Opening in 2012 and the home studio origins8:07 The analog recording process and philosophy10:11 Intention vs. perfection in recording11:41 Choosing gear to match an artist's vision13:02 The pedal collection and interpersonal skills15:28 Acquiring the Neve 5088 console18:19 Kevin Costner connection and board history19:44 Frank Anderson and session musicians20:59 Pre-production process explained23:00 Roller coasters and building engaging songs23:53 Working with artists' visions25:20 Band lodging and studio atmosphere28:03 Honeytone record label29:14 Setup time and efficiency31:10 Drum tuning and preparation31:58 Working together as a team33:11 Patrick's touring experience35:00 Family and music influences36:36 Getting to know bands intimately39:27 Recording at The Refuge with The Head and the Heart41:19 Jeff's musical journey and influences44:40 Guitar tech and repair work45:58 Moving to Honeytone from New York48:05 Jeff's solo EP project51:15 Notable studio equipment52:10 Spy vs Spy, Dusk, and other local artists53:19 Photography and videography at the studio54:35 Balancing studio work and life55:12 Patrick's mineral collecting hobby59:04 Contact information and closing#HoneytoneStudios #RecordingStudio #AppletonWI #FoxCities #WisconsinMusic #AnalogRecording #NeveConsole #MusicProduction #RecordingEngineer #StudioLife #VintageGear #MusicStudio #WisconsinMusicians #AudioEngineering #MusicProducer #IndieMusic #StudioGear #AnalogGear #MusicRecording #LocalMusic #FoxValley #WIMusicScene #RecordingSession #StudioVibes #MusicCommunity #SoundEngineering #ProducerLife #StudioTour #HomeRecording #MusicBusiness #IndieArtist #RecordingArtist #StudioSession #AudioProduction #MusicIndustry #CreativeSpace #VictorianMansion #DestinationStudio #CodeZeroRadio #FoxCitiesCore

1h 1m
JAN 18

Big Oil

Join us for a full house at the Code Zero Radio studio in Appleton, Wisconsin, as we sit down with the five-piece rock band Big Oil. In this deep-dive interview, the band discusses their latest single "New Candy," their transition from a four-piece to adding a synth player, and how they landed their debut recording session by simply showing up at a studio.We cover everything from their "synth punk" sound to the "panic writing" sessions that produced their best work. Whether you're a gearhead interested in their tone-chasing secrets or a fan wanting to know about their upcoming EP, this interview has it all.Support the Band:Socials: @BigOilInc (Instagram, etc.)Video Chapters0:00 Big Oil Band Interview - Fox Cities Wisconsin Rock Band1:42 How Big Oil Started - Band Origin Story & Member Backgrounds4:00 Big Oil Sound - Alt Rock Punk Blues Prog Influences5:58 First Live Performance at The Lobby Recording Session7:22 Frontman Stage Presence Tips & Performance Confidence7:46 Guitar Tone Secrets - How to Get Great Band Tone9:04 Band Photography & Building Social Media Presence10:10 Bratz Single Breakdown - Writing Longer Progressive Songs13:06 Live Q&A - Fans Ask Big Oil Questions13:24 How to Write Songs Fast - Songwriting Under Pressure15:03 Band Practice Tips - Writing New Music Together17:05 Upcoming EP Announcement - Big Oil New Music17:25 Best Venues to Play - Wisconsin Music Scene19:56 What Makes a Great Live Show vs Bad Show22:24 Milwaukee Music Scene vs Fox Cities Comparison24:42 How to Book Band Shows & Social Media Marketing Tips27:07 Band Merch Tips - T-Shirts Vinyl & Physical Products28:12 Musical Influences - Chris Cornell Viagra Boys Bad Suns31:07 Family Support for Local Musicians32:23 Recording at Rock Garden Studio - Professional Recording Tips34:29 Absent Minded & New Candy Singles Recording Process37:03 DIY Recording Mistakes - What We Learned at Spider's Barn39:08 Album Cover Art Design - Graphic Design for Musicians41:13 Vinyl vs Digital Release - Physical Music in 202543:06 Why We Named Our Band Big Oil - Band Name Story45:08 Dream Venues - Summerfest Coachella & House Shows47:04 New Candy Single Review - Big Oil's Most Aggressive Song48:09 Playing Shows with Missing Band Members51:03 Guitar Collaboration - Two Guitarists Working Together52:54 Big Oil Tour Dates 2025 - Upcoming Wisconsin Shows53:09 Follow Big Oil - Social Media Links & Streaming#BigOil #FoxCitiesCore #LocalMusic #AppletonWI #SynthPunk #NewCandy #WisconsinRock

54 min
JAN 4

CUTTER

In this episode of Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio, we sit down with a true staple of the Wisconsin media scene—Cutter. Known for his decades on the airwaves at WAPL and Razor, Cutter joins us to discuss his journey through the radio industry and what it takes to keep multiple "irons in the fire" today.Cutter is a veteran radio personality, host, and producer. He is currently the co-host of the WAPL Mornings with Laura Lee and Cutter and the host of the syndicated Cutting Edge Countdown and the Cutter’s Rockcast podcast. Beyond the mic, he is a dedicated musician who originally entered the radio world for the love of music rather than just the industry itself.Interview Highlights:- Unexpected Origins: Hear the true story of how Cutter’s radio career actually began while he was working at a Chuck E. Cheese in Green Bay, announcing that pizzas were ready.- The Madison Scene: Cutter reflects on his time at the Madison Media Institute in the late '90s and the "awesome" music scene that included bands like Garbage and Slipknot.- Building a Brand: Learn how he transitioned from "Jeff Bradley" (a radio name he hated) to the "Cutter" brand that listeners know today.- The Evolution of WAPL: Cutter discusses the transition from working with the legendary Rick McNeal to his current partnership with Laura Lee.- Defining Classic Rock: Get Cutter’s unique take on why "Classic Rock" isn’t just a time frame, but a specific sound.- Work-Life Balance: He shares how his recent marriage has helped him balance his "always-on" work schedule with much-needed downtime.Connect with Cutter:Website: cuttingedgecountdown.com Social Media: @cuttermedia Follow Fox Cities Core: Subscribe for more interviews with the people shaping the Fox Cities music community!#Cutter #WAPL #RadioInterview #WisconsinMusic #RockRadio #FoxCitiesCore #CutterMedia #CodeZeroRadio

1h 10m
12/13/2025

Joey's Song Preview

We got to spend a bit of time with the musical powerhouses who form the engine room of the annual Joey's Song Freezing Man Festival: Frank Anderson, Sam Farrell, and Alex Drossart!Joey's Song is a music event that raises money for epilepsy research and support for families affected by the condition. Over the last fifteen years, the event has raised an incredible $1,700,000 for the cause.As members of the legendary house band, The Know It All Boyfriends, Frank, Sam, and Alex are responsible for backing up a parade of rock icons and special guests—often with minimal rehearsal!The trio discusses:- The "monstrous undertaking" of learning dozens of different songs to play with artists from bands like The Bangles and Soul Asylum .- The rush of playing alongside music legends like session player Steve Porcaro (Michael Jackson/Toto) and the experience of becoming part of the Joey's Song "club".- The incredible talent coming out of Northeast Wisconsin, including the international success of Oshkosh native, Kenny Hoopla.- Their own Fox Cities projects, including Zebra Mussel (Frank Anderson) and The Wishbone Breakers (Alex Drossart and Sam Farrell).- Frank’s controversial take on the top things an acoustic performer can do to enliven their act Don't miss the biggest rock concert for a cause! The Joey's Song Freezing Man Festival takes place in Madison, Wisconsin.TICKETS & LIVESTREAM: This year, the show has a live stream available! Visit the official website to grab your tickets or tune in from home . ➡️ Event Info: https://www.joeyssong.org ➡️ Livestream: https://www.joeyssong.org/livestream FOX CITIES CORE: Watch more interviews from the Fox Cities music scene and subscribe to our channel! Station: WCZR Code Zero Radio Follow us on social media! CodeZeroRadio.com#JoeysSong #KnowItAllBoyfriends #FrankAnderson #SamFarrell #AlexDrossart #FoxCitiesCore #WCZR #EpilepsyResearch #MusicInterview #LiveMusic #TheBangles #SoulAsylum

1h 3m
11/16/2025

The Natatorium Documentary Discussion with Filmmaker Oliver Anderson, Alex Drossart and Sam Farrell

In this fascinating episode of Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio, we're joined by filmmaker Oliver Franklin Anderson, musical director Alex Drossart, and audio specialist Sam Farrell to dive deep into The Natatorium: and the 6 Dolphins of John J. Garlic — a forthcoming documentary uncovering one of Milwaukee’s strangest forgotten landmarks.The conversation explores the bizarre true story of the Public Natatorium, a 1970s bathhouse-turned-dolphin dinner theater that once featured live dolphin shows, exotic meats, and a cast of eccentric characters. Oliver shares how he uncovered this surreal piece of Wisconsin history, the challenges of tracking down former employees and archival material, and the emotional journey of tracing the life of Soda, the last surviving dolphin.Alex Drossart discusses the process of scoring the film, capturing both the grandeur and the melancholy of the Natatorium’s rise and fall. Sam adds dome color to the conversation. Plus, special guest Dale Krieger, the former head chef of the Natatorium, calls in with firsthand stories — from cooking lion meat to wrangling birds and navigating the chaos of a truly one-of-a-kind restaurant.Don’t miss this look behind the scenes of a documentary that’s as wild and haunting as the story it tells.greatlakescetaceaninstitute.comIf you have photos, video, or other artifacts relating to The Public Natatorium please reach out via email, greatlakescetaceaninstitute@gmail.comCode Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com#TheNatatorium #OliverFranklinAnderson #AlexDrossart #CodeZeroRadio #FoxCitiesCore #WisconsinHistory #DocumentaryFilm #DolphinDinnerTheater #MilwaukeeHistory #IndieFilm #RadioInterview

57 min
11/09/2025

Abe Auer and Kristoffer Olson

In this episode of Fox Cities CORE on WCZR Code Zero Radio, Andy welcomes rising Midwest comedian Abe Auer, whose journey from a ninth-grade talent show to performing on the Meyer Theatre stage is both inspiring and hilarious. Abe shares how COVID downtime and discovering Nate Bargatze sparked his comedy career, leading him to open mics at Christian coffee shops and eventually paid gigs at the iconic Skyline Comedy Club. His thoughtful approach to writing, delivery, and navigating the comedy grind offers a candid look into the life of a working comic.Joining as guest co-host is Kristoffer Olson, a seasoned comedian and longtime contributor to the Fox Valley comedy scene. Kristoffer brings insight, humor, and mentorship to the conversation, reflecting on his own early gigs, the evolution of local venues, and the quirks of stage presence. Together, Abe and Kristoffer dive into the highs and lows of comedy, from bagel jokes gone wrong to the thrill of getting that first check. Code Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com#AbeAuer #KristofferOlson #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #WisconsinMusic #StandUP #ComedyInterview #SkylineComedy #FoxCitiesComedy #SupportLocalMusic

57 min
10/26/2025

Traveling Suitcase

Oshkosh-based rock band Traveling Suitcase returns to Fox Cities Core on WCZR Code Zero Radio to talk about their long-awaited new EP, Moonlit Nights, dropping October 28. Known for their fusion of blues, rock, and psychedelic textures, the band has spent over a decade evolving through lineup changes, DIY recordings, and emotionally charged live shows — all while staying rooted in the Fox Valley music scene.In this candid and wide-ranging interview, Nicholas, Justin, and Jess (aka the “Band Mom”) join Andy to discuss:- The long road to releasing Moonlit Nights and what the EP means to them now- How the band’s lineup has evolved and why the current chemistry feels so strong- The behind-the-scenes role Jess plays in keeping the band organized, booked, and moving forward- Justin’s transition into the band and the challenge of learning bass parts from Brandon- Collaborations with Mike and Kat from Sit Kitty Sit and the magic of dual drummers- Tour stories, Buc-ee’s pit stops, and the power of friendship on the road- Plans for live video content and writing a full-length album this winter- Reflections on their Jones Park Mile of Music set and the energy they bring to every showCode Zero Radio is an independent streaming radio station based in the Fox Cities, Wisconsin, dedicated to spotlighting emerging artists, local talent, and underground music scenes. With a strong focus on alternative, rock, punk, and indie genres, Code Zero Radio serves as a platform for both regional and national acts to share their music and stories. In addition to spinning tracks 24/7, the station features original programming like Fox Cities Core, where artists are interviewed in-depth about their music, journey, and creative process.CodeZeroRadio.com#TravelingSuitcase #MoonlitNights #FoxCitiesCore #CodeZeroRadio #WisconsinMusic #IndieRock #BandInterview #NewMusic2025 #OshkoshMusicScene #SupportLocalMusic

53 min
10/23/2025

Mark Mader - ABF Monthly

In this episode of Fox Cities Core, we kick off our new monthly segment with Mark Mader of Appleton Beer Factory. Mark shares the story of how he became a partner at ABF, his mission to bring original music to the venue, and how the brewery has evolved into one of the Fox Cities’ most active live music spaces. From expanding the stage to hosting national touring acts, Mark dives into the logistics, passion, and partnerships that fuel ABF’s music programming.We talk about:- The origins of ABF’s music scene and its first show with Brother O’ Brother- How Mile of Music helped shape the local landscape- Booking challenges post-COVID and the importance of ticketed shows- Upcoming partnerships with Code Zero Radio, Razor 94.7, and more- Mark’s wishlist of future acts (Local H, Jeremy Albino, Cole Chaney)- Plans to expand into larger venues and keep growing the sceneWhether you're a fan, musician, or venue owner, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a sustainable, artist-friendly space in the Fox Cities.appletonbeerfactory.comRecorded live from WCZR Code Zero Radio in Appleton, Wisconsin — where local music lives.Subscribe for more interviews, updates, and live sessions from the heart of the Fox Valley.#ABFMonthly #CodeZeroRadio #FoxCitiesCore #MarkMader

46 min

Core is a weekly interview and music show on Code Zero Radio WCZR. The show airs live Saturday mornings from 9-10am CST. We focus on artists from the Fox Cities area of Wisconsin. You can listen to the show live by searching "Code Zero Radio" in the TuneIn app.

Creator

Andy McNamara
Years Active

2020 - 2026
Episodes

204
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Andy McNamara
Show Website

CORE