Florida Sound Archive Podcast

Jeff Kaiser
  • 5.0 (13)
  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Biweekly

Explore the vibrant music scene of Florida, past and present, through in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians, and industry insiders who shaped it. From the pioneers of Florida's punk and rock scenes to the contemporary sounds of today, our podcast delves into the stories, experiences, and memories that have made the state a hub for musical innovation and creativity. Tune in for insightful interviews, fascinating anecdotes, and a journey through the Sunshine State's rich musical heritage.

  1. 6d ago

    #147 Joe Kiser (Slap Of Reality)

    The Story of Joe Kiser: Slap Of Reality, Tampa Scene, Touring and More In this episode of the Florida Sound Archive, we're joined by Joe Kiser to trace his musical journey from growing up in Tampa's Clair-Mel neighborhood to becoming a longtime fixture of Tampa, Florida's punk, hardcore, and alternative music scene. Joe talks about being raised in a musical family, discovering rock and metal through bands like AC/DC, KISS, Black Sabbath, and Iron Maiden, and later finding punk and hardcore through local radio, record stores, and bands such as DRI, Bad Brains, and Dead Kennedys. Joe discusses meeting Rob Sexton in high school and how their friendship led to the formation of Slap of Reality. He shares memories of learning to play together, recording early demos, and building the band into one of Tampa's notable melodic hardcore acts. He also reflects on Rob's recent passing and their decades-long friendship. The episode covers Tampa's music scene during the 1980s and 1990s, including venues such as the Sunset Club, Empty Keg, Generic Club, Masquerade, Tampa Armory, and many others. Joe recalls attending shows throughout Florida, traveling to places like Gainesville, Orlando, Melbourne, Miami, West Palm Beach, and Pensacola, and describes how interconnected Florida's punk and hardcore communities were during that era. Joe walks through the history of Slap of Reality, including the band's recordings, tours, record labels, and experiences on the road. He discusses the band's discography, along with stories about recording sessions, touring across the United States, and sharing stages with numerous bands. Beyond Slap of Reality, Joe talks about several other projects he has been involved with, including Balance, Paineater, Milk and Cookies, Murder-Suicide Pact, Closure, which became The Sophomore Effort, No Fraud, The Path, and Defrauded. He shares stories about touring Europe and Brazil, recording with different bands, and continuing to pursue new creative outlets rather than focusing solely on music from the past. Joe also discusses the musicians, labels, and bands that influenced him, including Dag Nasty, Government Issue, Moving Targets, Bob Mould, and Brian Baker. He explains how those influences shaped his guitar playing and songwriting while emphasizing that the DIY mindset of punk has remained a constant throughout his career.

    #147 Joe Kiser (Slap Of Reality)

  2. Sep 4

    #146 MIke Marsh (The Agency / Dashboard Confessional)

    The Story of Mike Marsh: The Agency, Dashboard Confessional, Touring & More In this episode of the Florida Sound Archive Podcast, we're joined by Mike Marsh, whose journey from the South Florida punk scene eventually led him to Dashboard Confessional, The Avett Brothers, and some of the biggest stages in music. This is one of the deepest dives Mike has taken into his story, covering more than three decades of music, touring, friendships, success, addiction, recovery, and everything in between. Mike looks back at growing up in Kendall, discovering punk rock and drumming, and finding his place in the South Florida music and skateboarding scene of the 1990s. From there, we get into The Agency, its origins, recordings, and more. The story then moves into Dashboard Confessional, with founder Chris Carrabba and bassist Dan Bonebrake, and Mike's role in helping take Dashboard from its South Florida roots to MTV, MTV Unplugged, Madison Square Garden, David Letterman, and beyond. Mike also talks openly about what came with that success, including addiction, touring, and the realities of life in a rapidly changing music industry. He also touches on his time in Denny's Unit and Seville, who would later tour with Dashboard Confessional. Later, Mike shares how a move to Nashville eventually led to recording with Scott and Seth Avett, meeting Rick Rubin, and becoming part of The Avett Brothers. He also talks about sobriety, recovery, rebuilding relationships, reconnecting with old friends and bandmates, and continuing to make music with both The Agency and The Avett Brothers. It's a conversation that covers a lot of ground, but at its heart, it's Mike telling his story in his own words. From South Florida clubs and skateparks to some of the biggest stages in the country, there are plenty of stories along the way.

    #146 MIke Marsh (The Agency / Dashboard Confessional)

  3. Aug 21

    #145 Chris Garbage & Michael Rizzo (Declared Ungovernable)

    The Story of Declared Ungovernable: Chris Garbage & Michael Rizzo on the History of the Winter Park Florida Punks, 80s Scene, and More In this episode, we're joined by Chris Garbage and Michael Rizzo, founding members of Winter Park hardcore punk band Declared Ungovernable, for a deep dive into the band's origins, Florida's 1980s punk scene, and eventual reunion decades later. Chris and Michael trace their friendship back to middle school, where they bonded as outsiders and discovered punk rock after seeing Minor Threat in Winter Park. What began as a teenage band called Florida's Unwanted Children eventually evolved into Declared Ungovernable, a name inspired by Chris's personal experiences and the rebellious spirit that fueled the group. The conversation explores the DIY world that shaped the band, from recording sessions, homemade merchandise, skate contests, house parties, and shows across Orlando, Tampa, Cocoa Beach, Miami, and beyond. Chris and Michael share memories of playing with bands including RKL and The Meatmen, along with stories about the musicians, promoters, artists, friends, and family who helped support them. Chris also discusses the difficult home life that influenced many of the band's songs, while both reflect on building a following without the internet, social media, or industry connections. Chris and Michael also discuss the musical differences that eventually led to Declared Ungovernable's breakup, the band's music continuing to resonate with fans over the decades, and the reunion performances that followed. They reflect on what they accomplished as teenagers, the surprising longevity of the band's legacy, and the friendships that have survived nearly forty years since those first rehearsals in Winter Park.

    #145 Chris Garbage & Michael Rizzo (Declared Ungovernable)

  4. Aug 7

    #144 Jesse Alvare (FWA)

    The Story of Jesse Alvare: History of FWA, South Florida's 80s Hardcore Punk Scene, and More In this episode, we're joined by Jesse Alvare, founder and longtime driving force behind South Florida hardcore punk band FWA, to explore the band's history and its place in the South Florida punk and hardcore scene. Jesse reflects on growing up in Pasadena, California, moving to South Florida in 1979, discovering punk rock through bands like the Ramones, and becoming part of a growing underground community built through DIY shows, warehouse events, backyard parties, and more. The conversation explores the early South Florida punk and hardcore scene, including important spaces such as Pops, a warehouse near Tamiami Airport, Churchill's, Ocean 71/Flynn's, and the Cameo Theater. Jesse discusses the brotherhood with other South Florida bands from the era, including Indecision, Cultural Brain Rot, The Believers, Powerhouse, Meat Locker, The Roidz, Genitorturers, and others. Jesse shares memories of opening for touring bands like Youth Of Today, 7 Seconds, Agnostic Front, Scream, and The Exploited, along with unforgettable shows featuring Dead Kennedys, SS Decontrol, Kraut, Circle Jerks, Motörhead, Slayer, Overkill, the Ramones, Fishbone, and Wall Of Voodoo. He also reflects on the venues, record stores, flyers, and word of mouth that connected bands and fans before the internet era. The discussion also covers the formation of FWA in the mid-1980s, recording early demos at Third Eye Studios in Miami, releasing vinyl, creating flyers and merchandise, and preserving the band's history through posters, photographs, and memorabilia. Jesse talks about keeping a DIY band active through decades of lineup changes and why FWA continues to perform more than four decades later. Jesse also discusses how punk and hardcore culture has changed over the years, from the DIY flyer era to social media, the rising costs of live music, and the differences between the scene of the 1980s and today. He reflects on the lasting impact of the South Florida punk and hardcore community and the people, venues, and bands that helped build it.

    #144 Jesse Alvare (FWA)

  5. Jul 31

    #143 Joe Keit (Tension)

    The Story of Joe Keit: History of Tension, Unwillful Demise, Samkoma, and More In this episode, we're joined by Joe Keit, guitarist and founding member of South Florida hardcore band Tension, as well as an early member of Unwillful Demise. Joe reflects on growing up in a musical family, discovering artists like Kiss, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and Metallica, and developing a lifelong passion for music alongside longtime friend Matt Fox, who would later form Shai Hulud. He shares stories of learning guitar, writing songs, and becoming immersed in South Florida's underground music scene during the late 1980s and early 1990s. The conversation explores the formation of Unwillful Demise, recording demos, playing venues including the Treehouse and Kitchen Club, and sharing stages with members of South Florida's growing metal and hardcore communities. Joe also discusses other local bands from the era, including Cynic, Malevolent Creation, Fatal Sin, Raped Ape, and Eternal Damage, along with memories of record stores including Uncle Sam's and Specs, local concerts, and discovering new music throughout Broward County and beyond. Joe recounts the formation of Tension with vocalist Mike Hurley, the band's releases In Our Time, The Sickness of Our Age, and Agent of the People, recording at Studio 13 with Jeremy Staska, winning a Slammy Award, interest from Century Media Records, and the band's evolving sound. He also shares memories of performances at Coral Springs City Center, Blue Chair, Plus Five Lounge, Club Q, and The Edge, along with touring and sharing bills with Strongarm, Shelter, Strife, Earth Crisis, Integrity, Endure, Timescape Zero, Bloodlet, and Load. The discussion also focuses on Mike Hurley's impact on Tension. Joe shares memories of their friendship, reflects on Hurley's songwriting and stage presence, discusses the challenges that followed after the band's breakup, and speaks candidly about mental health, addiction, suicide, and the importance of checking in on friends and loved ones. Joe also discusses life after Tension, including his career as a firefighter, his involvement in martial arts, breakdancing, and electronic music, as well as his current projects Ronin Taiko and Samkoma.

    #143 Joe Keit (Tension)

  6. Jul 24

    #142 Adel Souto (Timescape Zero)

    The Story of Adel "156" Souto: Timescape Zero, Violent Deed, Feast of Hate and Fear, and More IIn this episode, we're joined by Adel Souto (Adel 156), vocalist for South Florida bands Violent Deed, Timescape Zero, Shroud, and Sound for Sound, and creator of the fanzine Feast of Hate and Fear. Adel reflects on growing up in Hialeah, discovering punk through mixtapes, college radio, and record stores, and becoming part of South Florida's underground music scene in the 1980s. He discusses early shows, the formation of Violent Deed, recording the band's demo, and opening for bands including Youth of Today, Dayglo Abortions, Death, and Death Angel. He also shares memories of the violence that often surrounded shows during that era and how the culture evolved throughout the late 1980s and 1990s. The conversation explores Adel's fanzine work, from Evolution to Feast of Hate and Fear, and his role in documenting Florida's punk and hardcore communities. We also discuss Timescape Zero, the band's recordings and releases, performances throughout Florida, and venues including Churchill's, Washington Square, Plus Five Lounge, and Blue Chair. Adel also shares stories about Shroud, None Dare Call It Treason, Sound for Sound, and the people and DIY community that helped shape South Florida's underground music scene, along with the lasting legacy of the bands, venues, record stores, fanzines, promoters, independent radio, and more.

    #142 Adel Souto (Timescape Zero)

  7. Jul 17

    #141 Strummer (Blank Expression)

    The Story of Orlando punks, Blank Expression, The Punk House, and More With Strummer In this episode, we're joined by Strummer, original member of Orlando punk band Blank Expression, co-founder of the Punk House, and co-founder of the fanzine *Ramblings of a Twisted Mind*. Strummer reflects on growing up in the Bay Area, discovering punk through college radio and early shows, and relocating to Orlando in 1987. He discusses becoming part of Central Florida's underground punk scene, launching Ramblings of a Twisted Mind fanzine, and documenting the people, bands, and venues he encountered in Orlando's late 1980s and early 1990s punk and alternative culture. The conversation explores the formation of Blank Expression, the band's DIY approach to recording, performing throughout Florida, and the Orlando punk community that surrounded them. Strummer shares memories of local bands including Adventures in Immortality, Solid Answer, The Spitvalves, and others, along with venues such as Electric Avenue, Vis, the Beach Club, Club Psychotronic, Club Nowhere, BT Grinders, and the Fairbanks Inn. We also discuss the Punk House, a DIY space created to give local and touring bands a place to perform, record, and build community. Strummer recalls its humble beginnings, building a makeshift stage, hosting shows, and the challenges of creating a space for underground music outside of traditional venues. Strummer shares stories behind Blank Expression's recordings, including the O-Town Punks demo, the lost full-length album, the Born to Skate 7-inch, and the Punkin Donuts compilation. He also reflects on leaving Florida, Blank Expression's legacy in the Orlando punk scene, and more.

    #141 Strummer (Blank Expression)

  8. Jul 10

    #6 Re-release: Lee Folmar (Insect Fear)

    Recut 2020 Episode: Lee Folmar of Tallahassee's Insect Fear, Squid Row, Starry Crowns & More  This episode, originally recorded in June 2020, features Lee Folmar of Insect Fear, Squid Row, Starry Crowns, and several other projects, reflecting on his decades-long journey through the Florida Panhandle's punk and alternative music scene. Remastered and re-edited for improved clarity, this re-release revisits an important era of Florida Panhandle music history. Lee shares stories about growing up in Tallahassee, discovering music through his parents' records, finding inspiration in artists ranging from Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin to Talking Heads and Brian Eno, and eventually discovering punk rock. He discusses the early days of his musical journey, from Squid Row, to the formation of Insect Fear, the DIY approach to recording, and the challenges of creating music as young musicians with limited resources but a passion for making something unique. Lee also shares memories of working at Vinyl Fever, the importance of local record stores, touring bands that passed through the Panhandle, and the connections that linked Tallahassee's underground scene to the larger independent music community. He reflects on recordings, reunions, later projects, and what it means to see people continue discovering and appreciating music created decades ago.

    #6 Re-release: Lee Folmar (Insect Fear)
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5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Explore the vibrant music scene of Florida, past and present, through in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians, and industry insiders who shaped it. From the pioneers of Florida's punk and rock scenes to the contemporary sounds of today, our podcast delves into the stories, experiences, and memories that have made the state a hub for musical innovation and creativity. Tune in for insightful interviews, fascinating anecdotes, and a journey through the Sunshine State's rich musical heritage.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Kaiser
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    98
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jeff Kaiser/Florida Sound Archive 2024
  • Show Website
    Florida Sound Archive Podcast

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