The Bandwich Tapes

Brad Williams
  • 5.0 (10)
  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Bandwich Tapes, where host Brad Williams sits down with his friends and musical heroes for candid conversations about life, music, and everything in between. Join us as we dive deep into the stories behind the songs, explore the highs and lows of the music industry, and celebrate the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all. Whether you're a seasoned musician, a die-hard music fan, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Bandwich Tapes has something for everyone. So, come along for the ride as we explore the magic of music and the incredible journeys of the people who bring it to life.

  1. John Mailander's Musical Journey

    1D AGO

    John Mailander's Musical Journey

    In this episode, I’m joined by John Mailander, a fearless and lyrical fiddler/violinist whose work bridges bluegrass, jazz, ambient improvisation, and songcraft. We trace his path from San Diego to Berklee (where he studied American Roots with mentor Darol Anger) to Nashville, where he found a close-knit community that’s as experimental as it is supportive. John discusses the city’s “weirdo music” scene, ambient nights, free improvisation, and oddball collaborations, and how that energy coexists alongside the touring calendar. We dig into his life-changing chair with Bruce Hornsby: the no-setlist ethos, learning the “top 80” deep-cut originals, living on the edge together, and the night Bruce rearranged the stage so John could stand next to John Scofield, then kept tossing them intertwined solos all evening. John shares recent runs with Sam Grisman (with hero Peter Rowan onboard), producing and recording more from Nashville, and the origin of his own band Forecast, a genre-porous collective inspired by Bill Frisell, Brian Blade Fellowship, Pat Metheny/Brad Mehldau, and Joni Mitchell. We talk through the new record Let the World In: how residency nights at Dee’s in Madison shaped the tunes, why the drums sound so alive, and why he welcomes rotating lineups to hear the same music through new lenses. Teaching and mentorship thread through the conversation: passing on what was given to him (formally and backstage between songs), honoring influences like Matt Mundy (ARU/Bruce Hampton), and why the point isn’t “pushing boundaries” as a goal but playing honestly enough that the music pushes itself. It’s a generous, grounded conversation about trust, curiosity, and letting the music lead. To learn more about John, visit his website. Music from the Episode:Let the World In (John Mailander's Forecast)Road (John Mailander's Forecast)Gardener (John Mailander's Forecast)Reprise (John Mailander's Forecast) Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

    52 min
  2. Quick Announcement!

    5D AGO · BONUS

    Quick Announcement!

    I’m excited to announce that for the six weeks, I’ll be releasing two episodes every week, one on Monday and another on Thursday. That means twice the music, twice the stories, and twice the fun. If you haven’t already, make sure to follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, so you don’t miss any of the upcoming episodes. And if you’re enjoying the show, please share it with a friend. That’s the best way to help it grow. Thanks again for listening and for being part of The Bandwich Tapes community.

    1 min
  3. Behind the Drums: Paul Leim's Musical Legacy

    NOV 3

    Behind the Drums: Paul Leim's Musical Legacy

    In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with legendary session drummer Paul Leim, whose six-decade career quietly powers a staggering piece of the soundtrack to our lives. Paul has played on more than 12,000 songs across over 2,000 releases, with 1,400+ silver/gold/platinum certifications, and global sales topping 540 million units. His discography encompasses over 150 combined GRAMMY nominations and wins, as well as 40+ major film/TV awards, and credits on more than 150 films and 100 television specials and series. If you’ve heard Lionel Richie, Shania Twain, Lyle Lovett, Kenny Chesney, Whitney Houston—or cues from Dirty Dancing, Smokey and the Bandit II, The River, or even Return of the Jedi, you’ve likely heard Paul. We trace the arc from East Texas clubs and Dallas jingle mills to late-’70s Los Angeles, where a “typical” week meant two complete drum rigs leapfrogging between Lionel Richie sessions, network TV soundstages, film dates, and award shows. Paul talks mentors and “angels” (band director Neil Grant, Robin Hood Brians, Doc Severinsen), lifelong friendships with the TCB family (Ron Tutt, Jerry Scheff), and lessons that still anchor his playing—especially dynamic control and “letting the mics work.” We get inside the high-wire reality of studio life. Paul calls it “95% boredom and 5% sheer terror”, including how to read conductors, when to lead the time, and when to ride it, and what it’s like to move from live kit to orchestral percussion with John Williams. There are great shop-floor stories: cutting Lionel’s “Truly” and counseling Lionel at the fork-in-the-road moment of leaving the Commodores; discovering that Lyle Lovett’s “The Blues Walk” was gloriously vocal-free; and a deep dive into the precision world of Mutt Lange and Shania, ending bass notes just before the snare for mix “air,” the chrome-over-brass “important” snare, and the on-the-fly invention of tom “Mutt flaps” for short, open fills. Paul also shares a personal fork he chose differently: turning down a James Taylor tour to be home with his young family, only to hand JT the final serial-numbered Leim signature snare decades later at the White House. Today, Paul is still very much in motion: bandleading the TCB Band in Europe, steering The Tennessee Four with Thomas Gabriel to carry the Cash legacy, and jumping into Million Dollar Quartet shows—proof that the hang, the humility, and the groove endure. It’s a conversation about craft, friendship, stewardship of a gift, and the choices that shape both a career and a life. Music from the Episode:Pick it Apart (Mark O'Connor)Truly (Lionel Richie)The Blues Walk (Lyle Lovett) Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com. Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy

    1h 27m
  4. From Classical to Bluegrass: Trish Imbrogno's Musical Journey

    OCT 27

    From Classical to Bluegrass: Trish Imbrogno's Musical Journey

    In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I reconnect (30 years later!) with bassist and singer Trish Imbrogno. We apparently shared the same summers at the Chautauqua Institution as teens, then each took “classical first” career paths before veering joyfully into other sounds. Trish tells the story of leaving a busy classical schedule to become a bluegrass/Americana bassist and bandleader and why she’s never looked back. We explore topics such as discipline, groove, ensemble trust, the debate between purists and progress, and the thrill (and terror) of starting over in a new musical language. We also preview her debut EP Bluegrass Love Songs, Vol. 1 (out Nov 7) and the monster lineup that played on it. To learn more about Trish, visit her website. Music from the Episode:Think of What You've Done (Trish Imbrogno) Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

    54 min
  5. Reconnecting Through Music with Wayne Viar

    OCT 20

    Reconnecting Through Music with Wayne Viar

    In this episode, I reconnect with drummer and percussionist Wayne Viar, a true chameleon equally at home on rudimental snare, timpani, orchestral percussion, hand percussion, and straight-ahead drum set grooves. Raised in Richmond, Virginia, Wayne followed his older brother into the school band and studied at East Carolina University under the guidance of Mark Ford. He marched in the early 1990s with Santa Clara Vanguard in the front ensemble. Those years sharpened the two traits that still define his playing: refined touch and a highly trained ear. Wayne shares how timpani work shaped his sound concept, tuning, touch, and intent, and why those lessons transfer to every instrument he plays. We trade stories from the North Carolina Triangle scene to Atlanta’s deep pool of drummers, reflecting on what makes a rhythm section feel great: listening, placement, and serving the song. Wayne describes his approach to subbing as studying a band’s center of gravity while giving them the feel they expect. He also shares what he learned playing percussion alongside Atlanta stalwarts such as Joe Lee, Scott Meeder, and Jon Chalden. He contrasts the football-team edge of earlier drum corps with today’s more dance-oriented productions. He explains why he writes parts that are musical, supportive, and grooving, using as much as needed but no more, instead of cramming in notes for flash. These days, Wayne splits his time among theater and tribute productions, including A1A, the long-running Jimmy Buffett show he loves for its surprising stylistic range, occasional ABBA productions with original bassist Mike Watson, and writing and teaching for high school programs. Throughout our conversation, we keep coming back to process over product, rehearsing well, building reliable systems, and teaching skills that outlast any single show. It is a deep dive into musicianship, adaptability, and being the kind of player and hang people want to call again. To learn more about Wayne, visit his website. Music from the Episode:Who's Been Talking (Shannon Wickline, Wayne Viar, & Brad Williams) Thank you for listening. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please email me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

    1h 1m
  6. The Unfaithful Servants - Band-Forward

    OCT 13

    The Unfaithful Servants - Band-Forward

    In this episode, I shine the spotlight on The Unfaithful Servants through a conversation with singer, guitarist, and songwriter Dylan Stone From Vancouver Island’s roots scene to a week immersed at IBMA in Chattanooga, the Servants have built a sound that slips past easy labels: tight three- and four-part harmonies, fearless arrangements, and a blend of bluegrass, folk, alt-country, and Americana that still feels unmistakably like one band. Dylan walks me through the Servants’ arc: his partnership with mandolinist Jesse Cobb (a founding member of The Infamous Stringdusters), the jolt of energy when fiddle phenom Quinn Etheridge-Peddon joined, and the final puzzle piece in bassist Mark Johnson. We discuss the chemistry that's palpable onstage and how trust enables them to push beyond genre boundaries while always prioritizing the song. Their new album, Fallen Angel (out October 17), captures that identity. The band converted Quinn’s basement into a studio. It brought in producer Adrian Dolan to keep it honest and alive, arrangements evolving in real time, performances that breathe, and the raw cohesion of a working band. We also explore their next steps: incorporating listening-led improvisation into writing (akin to jazz school rather than “endless solo”) and planning U.S. runs in 2026 from the Pacific Northwest down the coast and inland. The title track “Fallen Angel” is out now on all platforms. Band lineup Dylan Stone — vocals, guitar, songwritingJesse Cobb — mandolin, instrumental writing, vocalsQuinn Etheridge-Peddon — fiddle, vocalsMark Johnson — bass, vocalsTo learn more about The Unfaithful Servants, visit their website. Music from the Episode:Fallen Angel (The Unfaithful Servants)Real to Touch (The Unfaithful Servants) Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

    48 min
  7. Niia: A Journey Through Jazz and Self-Discovery

    OCT 6

    Niia: A Journey Through Jazz and Self-Discovery

    Niia joins me to unpack her forthcoming album—a modern, live-first take on jazz that blends an acoustic rhythm section with subtle, future-leaning electronic colors. Trained as a jazz vocalist and raised at the piano, she set out to create something timeless, without relying on retro tropes or trend-bound sounds. The result is a record that breathes: spacious mixes, genuine dynamics, and arrangements that allow for interplay while keeping the vocal narrative at the center. We trace her path from a fiercely musical Italian family outside Boston—classical piano with her mom, jazz studies at The New School in New York—to early studio reps as a jingle singer, where she learned mic technique, speed, and how to “translate” creative direction. A move to Los Angeles opened new collaborative circles and ultimately led to the creation of this album, co-produced with Lawrence Rothman and Spencer Zahn (whose bass work is a standout). Most core tracks were cut together, with Niia revisiting vocals after living with the songs; mixer John Castello kept the feel alive rather than over-processed. Her version of “Angel Eyes,” distilled to voice and piano, anchors the record and nods to the tradition she loves. We also discuss the human side of performing—stage fright, perfectionism, and the transition from singing with eyes closed to fully engaging with an audience. For Niia, connection beats ego: the goal is to help people feel something, not to sand every edge. As the album rolls out (release date: October 10), she’s launching a 10-date European tour starting in Germany and Copenhagen, with hopes of bringing the show to Asia and the U.S. next. Long term, she dreams of a lush standards album—but, as she puts it, not just yet. To learn more about Niia, visit her website. Music from the Episode:throw my head out the window (Niia)pianos and great danes (Niia)f*cking happy (Niia)angel eyes (Niia) Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

    55 min
  8. From Music to Recovery: Arnold McCuller's Journey

    SEP 29

    From Music to Recovery: Arnold McCuller's Journey

    In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with the legendary vocalist Arnold McCuller, whose voice has graced stages and recordings alongside artists such as James Taylor and Phil Collins, among others. While we reflect on some of his most iconic musical moments, our conversation centers on his current mission as a recovery coach and interventionist, as well as his involvement with Harmonium. This powerful organization supports creatives in recovery. We talk about the unique pressures musicians face, how addiction weaves into the culture of performance, and the courage it takes to rebuild a life and career on new terms. I also share some of my own journey of sobriety — nearing one year — and Arnold offers wisdom on moving past shame, reclaiming creativity, and finding freedom through community. This is a conversation about music, resilience, and hope — one that every artist (and human) will find something in. Music from the Episode:Witness (Arnold McCuller)Chances Are (Arnold McCuller)Hard Times (Arnold McCuller)You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive (Arnold McCuller)Above the Rain (Arnold McCuller) To learn more about Arnold and his incredible work, please visit his website.  Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com. The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy.

    52 min
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About

Welcome to The Bandwich Tapes, where host Brad Williams sits down with his friends and musical heroes for candid conversations about life, music, and everything in between. Join us as we dive deep into the stories behind the songs, explore the highs and lows of the music industry, and celebrate the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all. Whether you're a seasoned musician, a die-hard music fan, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Bandwich Tapes has something for everyone. So, come along for the ride as we explore the magic of music and the incredible journeys of the people who bring it to life.

Information

  • Creator
    Brad Williams
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    85
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 BSW Productions
  • Show Website
    The Bandwich Tapes