LaunchLeft

• RAIN PHOENIX launches Team LaunchLeft

  In this inspiring episode of LaunchLeft, host Rain Phoenix chats with Lorraine Petel, Geoff Ryan, Jennifer Tefft, and Rich Tupica, aka the team behind LaunchLeft! Take a dive deep into the creative process, independent music, film, and the challenges facing artists today. From Geoff Ryan’s journey in narrative filmmaking and experimental shorts to Lorraine Petel’s rise in radio and underground music curation, the conversation covers the intersections of creativity, community, and the evolving digital landscape. Jennifer Tefft shares her insights on live music venues and fostering community engagement, while Rich Tupica reflects on finding audiences and promoting indie artists in a saturated music world. The episode also explores artist sustainability in the age of streaming, social media’s influence on creative discovery, and the importance of physical venues for cultivating artistic communities. Whether you’re an independent musician, filmmaker, or visual artist, this episode offers valuable perspectives on building a career in the arts, navigating industry challenges, and celebrating radical creativity. What You’ll Learn This Episode: ✅Meet the creatives who make LaunchLeft happen. ✅How to sustain and promote creative projects in today’s digital and streaming-focused environment. ✅The role of live venues and community spaces in developing artistic careers and fostering audience connections. ✅Strategies for independent artists to navigate the challenges of modern media, from social media algorithms to audience engagement. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction to LaunchLeft and supporting underground music, independent artists, and creative communities 06:42 Geoff’s experience in filmmaking, experimental shorts, and indie film production, including challenges in the industry and returning to music video projects 11:05 Lorraine Petel shares how she fell into radio, her career at NTS London, underground music curation, and artist promotion 16:30 Jennifer Tefft on the importance of live music venues, audience engagement, and community-building, comparing in-person experiences to social media discovery for artists 20:31 Geoff Ryan’s experiences filming under challenging conditions, music video production, and creative collaboration 24:52 Lorraine Petel discusses the growth of her show at NTS and supporting underrepresented musicians, promoting indie artists, and curating unique music 28:26 Artist income, streaming challenges, indie music promotion, and sustaining creative careers in a digital-first world 35:00 Rich Tupica on connecting with fans, online communities, promoting music, and supporting artistic growth, highlighting strategies for success in the modern music and art landscape 44:00 Local music venues & community spaces showcase the importance of live performance spaces, artist development, indie music venues, and community engagement 52:00 The team reflects on the year, expresses gratitude to the LaunchLeft community, creative collaborators, and indie artists, and encourages listeners to support music, art, and independent filmmaking KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎Independent artists face challenges in income, audience reach, and digital saturation, but community support and live venues can bridge the gap 💎Experimental projects and creative exploration are essential for artistic growth, even outside of mainstream success 💎Platforms like NTS London, Bandcamp, and LaunchLeft empower underground and independent artists, providing visibility and connection with audiences 💎Building a local and online community is critical for sustaining artistic careers, from small venues to curated online spaces 💎Supporting artists directly through merch, ticketed events, and Bandcamp can have a tangible impact on their ability to create RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link

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• BEN GIBBARD launches Casey Dienel

  In this episode, Rain Phoenix chats with Ben Gibbard of Death Cab For Cutie to explore his journey in indie music, songwriting, and touring. From the early days of Death Cab For Cutie, to forming The Postal Service, to navigating the music industry, Ben shares insights on creativity, collaboration, and the evolution of alternative rock. Later, Ben launches Casey Dienel, and they dive into her approach to music, artistry, and the challenges new artists face in today’s industry. Casey also shares details about her upcoming album "My Heart as an Outlaw" and her return to live performance after a decade. This episode is packed with indie music insights, songwriting tips, and behind-the-scenes stories from touring life. Don’t miss this candid conversation that celebrates music, creativity, and emerging talent. What You Will Learn in This Episode: ✅ How Ben Gibbard came to music Death Cab For Cutie & the Postal Service ✅ Behind-the-scenes of touring, recording, and navigating the music industry ✅ Casey Dienel’s unique approach to songwriting and creativity ✅ Strategies for new artists breaking into alternative rock and indie music Subscribe to LaunchLeft for more indie music stories. Follow us on socials for updates and bonus content. IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Intro: Ben Gibbard joins LaunchLeft Podcast 05:38 Ben reflects on music industry changes 11:32 Ben's songwriting process and inspiration 16:41 Ben's favorite aspect of making music 21:31 Ben's passion for ultramarathon running 26:27 Ben launches Casey Dienel 32:32 Discussing studio recording experiences and preparation 39:12 How Ben and Casey first met 44:15 Casey talks about her new album "My Heart as an Outlaw" 47:58 Song: "17" by Casey Dienel KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎Ben Gibbard's career spans 27 years, marked by unexpected success and a gradual acceptance of music as a viable career path 💎The music industry has shifted dramatically, with artists facing new economic challenges due to the loss of album sales as a primary revenue stream 💎Ben's songwriting process is deeply personal, focusing on prolific writing rather than trying to predict which songs will resonate with audiences 💎Community and long-term relationships play a crucial role in Ben's life and artistic accountability 💎Casey Dienel's new album "My Heart as an Outlaw" marks her return to music after an eight-year hiatus, showcasing her evolution as an artist RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast BEN GIBBARD LINKS: https://www.deathcabforcutie.com/ https://benjamingibbard.com/ https://www.instagram.com/deathcabforcutie/ https://www.instagram.com/gibbstack/ https://www.facebook.com/deathcabforcutie https://www.facebook.com/bengibbard https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOtn115fCfFKIxG7_Quv9ZA CASEY DIENEL LINKS: https://www.whoiscaseydienel.com/ https://www.instagram.com/casey_dienel/ https://www.tiktok.com/@casey.dienel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp_WKK5gnDQH53qkRxBDeOw https://www.facebook.com/CaseyDienelOfficial BIOGRAPHIES: Benjamin Gibbard is a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and guitarist. He is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter of Death Cab for Cutie, formed in 1997. The band has since recorded ten studio albums, including, most recently, the critically acclaimed Asphalt Meadows (2022). Gibbard is also one half of the electronic duo The Postal Service, whose sole album, Give Up (2003), is certified platinum and the second best-selling title in the 37 year history of Sub Pop Records. Gibbard released his debut solo album Former Lives in 2012. In 2009, in collaboration with Jay Farrar (Uncle Tupelo, Son Volt), he released the album One Fast Move or I'm Gone (2009), which also served as the soundtrack to the eponymous Jack Kerouac documentary. He has scored two films: Lynn Shelton’s Laggies (2014) and, along with musician and producer Steve Fisk, the Kurt Cobain documentary About a Son (2006). Additionally, he wrote and recorded two original songs featured in the 2011 remake of the classic film Arthur. Gibbard is an avid ultra-marathon runner and a longtime resident of Seattle, WA. Casey Dienel is an American singer-songwriter and musician. Dienel, who has also performed and recorded as White Hinterland, plays piano, keyboards and ukulele. My Heart Is An Outlaw is Casey Dienel’s seventh album and first studio release. It arrives after eight years away, the result of a renewed trust in collaboration as a radical act of surrender. The album’s 11 tracks—each a film and a melodic treasure trove—offer a reckoning with freedom, identity, and the conflicting desire for both solitude and intimacy. Recorded at Altamira Sound in Los Angeles, Figure 8 Recording in New York, and Chamber of Commerce in Vermont, the record zooms from micro to macro, intimate breath to mic drop.

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• THE B-52'S FRED SCHNEIDER launches Dagger Polyester

  In this episode of LaunchLeft, host Rain Phoenix welcomes Fred Schneider of The B-52’s as he launches Dagger Polyester. Fred takes us back to the Athens, Georgia music scene where The B-52’s began, sharing stories of DIY shows, thrifting, and how their left-of-center style changed pop culture. He also dives into side projects including Halloween anthems, poetry reissues, and unexpected collaborations. Later, Dagger Polyester joins the conversation to talk about punk influences, resisting background-noise music, and how individuality fuels their artistry. Together, they explore creativity, collaboration, and the future of music in an AI-driven world. What You Will Learn in This Episode:✅ How The B-52’s began in Athens, Georgia and built their unique sound ✅ Why thrifting, vintage fashion, and DIY culture shaped The B-52’s identity ✅ Fred Schneider’s side projects and creative collaborations outside of the B-52’s ✅ Dagger Polyester’s insights on punk, pop culture, and music that resists algorithms 🎧 Listen to the full LaunchLeft podcast here: LaunchLeft Podcast 👉 Subscribe for more conversations with independent artists and cultural icons. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction from Rain Phoenix 04:15 Fred Schneider shares early memories of Athens, Georgia 08:32 The B-52’s first gigs and their DIY approach to music and style 12:40 Thrifting, vintage fashion, and creating an outsider aesthetic 17:55 Tour memories: runaway buses, donuts, and chaos on the road 23:52 Discussing 80s music and artistic influences 28:46 Keeping the band together: equal splits and shared decisions 34:05 Dagger Polyester is launched 38:27 Punk influences, Athens’ creative scene, and resisting algorithm-driven music 44:50 The future of music, AI, and why individuality still matters 49:20 Closing thoughts, resources, and where to find Fred and Dagger’s work KEY TAKEAWAYS: Embracing individuality creates timeless music that stands apart. Sharing credit and resources can strengthen a band’s longevity. Creativity thrives when artists explore side projects and collaborations. Punk and outsider art continue to challenge the mainstream and inspire new generations. ABOUT THE GUEST: Fred Schneider is an American singer, songwriter, and musician, best known as the frontman of the new wave band The B-52s. With his distinctive vocal style and quirky lyrics, Schneider has been a pivotal figure in the alternative music scene since the late 1970s. The B-52s, known for hits like "Love Shack" and "Rock Lobster," have left an indelible mark on pop culture and continue to influence musicians today. Dagger Polyester is an emerging musician known for blending elements of punk, new wave, and experimental rock. With a growing following in the underground music scene, Dagger's unique sound and approach to songwriting are garnering attention from both fans and industry veterans alike. RESOURCES: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link LaunchLeft on Apple Podcasts LaunchLeft on YouTube GUEST RESOURCES: Fred Schneider https://www.theb52s.com https://www.instagram.com/funfred1/ https://www.instagram.com/theb52sband/ https://www.facebook.com/OfficialFredSchneider/ https://www.facebook.com/theb52s/ Dagger Polyester https://daggerpolyester.com/ https://www.instagram.com/daggerpolyester/ https://www.youtube.com/channel SEO Keywords: Fred Schneider, B-52s, Dagger Polyester, punk rock, Athens music scene, 1980s music, thrift store fashion, rock and roll hall of fame, indie music, new wave, alternative rock, music industry, touring experiences, record collecting, AI in music, Ramones, girl groups, Phil Spector, Ronnie Spector, vinyl records, music collaboration, songwriting, music influences, pop culture, music history, LGBTQ+ representation in music

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• LILI HAYDN & PAUL CANTELON launch Itai Disraeli

  In this episode of LaunchLeft, Rain Phoenix hosts a profound and intimate conversation that explores the transformative potential of art and the enduring bonds between artists with long time friends and musicians Paul Cantelon and Lili Haydn. Paul and Lili open up about the deeply personal origins of their heartfelt album "Lullabies for the Brokenhearted", created in the wake of Paul's wife Angela McCluskey's passing. They share deeply personal stories about their musical journeys and the inspirations behind the album and discuss the importance of vulnerability in their creative process and how the project has been healing for them both. Then, they launch Itai Disraeli who discusses his groundbreaking solo bass project “He is Free Now” and the spiritual nature of his music. Tune in for a preview of tracks from both "Lullabies for the Brokenhearted" and an excerpt of Itai's ”Continuation Day”, offering listeners a glimpse into these profound musical journeys. IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Intro: Meet Paul Cantelon and Lili Haydn (05:54) The genesis of "Lullabies for the Brokenhearted," dedicated to Paul's late wife Angela McCluskey and Lili's mother Lotus (10:39) Paul and Lili's experiences with loss and the transformative power of music and community (22:31) Paul shares his childhood encounter with music in Zurich (27:40) Lili's musical upbringing and her mother, Lotus's influence (35:32) Itai Disraeli is launched (38:05) Itai discusses his musical philosophy and upcoming record “He is Free Now” (44:12) The Entwined from "Lullabies for the Brokenhearted" (49:26) Continuation Day from “He is Free Now” KEY TAKEAWAYS: Music of all genres serves as a powerful tool for healing and processing grief. The creation of "Lullabies for the Brokenhearted" was not just about grieving, but about expanding consciousness and creating connection between this realm and the next. The spiritual dimension of music connects us to life, death, and the beyond. True artistry comes from getting out of your own way and letting the music’s spirit flow through you. The most powerful music emerges when you're completely vulnerable and honest, capturing raw moments of catharsis rather than trying to perform or impress. Sound carries immense spiritual power. While words shouted on barricades may be silenced, the depth and resonance of music cannot be shot down or destroyed. By connecting through our art, we become points of light guiding each other home through the darkness. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link LILI HAYDN LINKS https://www.instagram.com/lilihaydn/ https://www.lilihaydn.com/ PAUL CANTELON LINKS https://www.instagram.com/paulcantelon/ Lullabies For the Brokenhearted – a new album by Lili Haydn & Paul Cantelon You Could Start A Fight In An Empty House Podcast ITAI DISRAELI LINKS https://www.instagram.com/itai_disraeli/ https://www.instagram.com/maetarmusic/ BIOGRAPHIES: Violinist-composer Lili Haydn and pianist-composer Paul Cantelon have created Lullabies for the Brokenhearted—a poignant and transcendent album shaped by personal loss and the redemptive power of music. After the sudden passing of Cantelon’s wife, singer Angela McCluskey, grief left him unable to play. Haydn, a lifelong friend and collaborator, invited him into her home and gently rekindled his creative spirit. The result is 8 deeply felt compositions, recorded in just 10 days, with influences ranging from Chopin to Arvo Part. The lead single, “The Edgeless Safety of the Sea,” was released June 27, offering a first glimpse of the album’s cinematic, emotionally resonant sound. Among the album’s most striking moments are “The Last Serenade,” a melody Haydn received at her mother’s deathbed and has since played for others in their final moments, and “Point No Point,” a piece central to Cantelon’s early work and later featured in The Diving Bell and the Butterfly. While rooted in sorrow, the music is full of light, hope, and reverence. Haydn, a Grammy winner and Emmy-nominated composer (Netflix #1 hit Ginny & Georgia), and Cantelon, a Juilliard-trained artist with acclaimed film scores, bring decades of experience to this collaboration—a musical offering that gently holds space for grief, memory, and healing. Itai Disraeli is a Grammy-winning bassist, composer, producer, and spiritual teacher whose music blends groove, psychedelia, and deep emotional truth. Best known for his work with Opium Moon and Maetar, Itai now turns his focus toward a revolutionary solo bass project that is melodic, hypnotic, and entirely human. He is the founder of the music department at the renowned Wildwood School in L.A. and has mentored Grammy winning artists including Thundercat, Gracie Abrams, and Emmy winning composer Zach Robinson. As a composer for film and TV, he has contributed additional music to the Netflix hit Ginny & Georgia, as well as numerous films and documentaries. As a student of the revered Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, Itai believes music is a blueprint for peace. His sound is both a spiritual practice and a funky, soul-stirring ride. Now, after decades of shaping sound in collaborative spaces, Itai steps forward with a groundbreaking solo bass project: He is Free Now is an album that is hypnotic, melodic, psychedelic, layered, groovy, and unlike anything you’ve heard before. This is bass as lead voice, as meditation, as movement. It’s not a solo record. It’s a soul record.

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• TUNE-YARDS launches Esotérica Tropical

  Join the vibrant conversation between Rain Phoenix and Merrill Garbus of Tune-Yards as they dive into Merrill’s musical journey and creative process. Merrill reflects on her experience with 4AD Records, maintaining authenticity in an ever changing industry, and the delicate balance between artistic expression and social responsibility. Then Merrill launches MaJo, aka, Esotérica Tropical. MaJo shares her unique approach to music-making, rooted in healing and connection with the natural world. Together, they highlight the power of music as a tool for personal growth and social change, while also exploring the artists' collaborative projects. The conversation wraps up with Esotérica Tropical’s song "Realismo Magico" featuring Merrill and MaJo’s stunning harmonies. IN THIS EPISODE: (00:00) Intro: Rain Phoenix welcomes Merrill Garbus (05:03) Merrill discusses Tune-Yards' journey and 4AD Records (10:06) Challenges of navigating the music industry (15:35) The changing landscape of music distribution (20:32) Balancing artistry and social responsibility (25:52) The importance of authenticity and joy in music (31:41) Introducing Esotérica Tropical (Majo) (36:15) Merrill and Majo discuss their connection (40:24) Early musical experiences and influences (42:30) Listen to “Realismo Magico” by Esotérica Tropical feat. Merrill Garbus KEY TAKEAWAYS: Music is freedom. It's a way to connect, to heal, and to express what can't be said in words alone. Song writing and production are so unique to each artist. Artist-label relationships can and should nurture creativity when built on mutual trust and support. Creating joy and fostering connection are crucial elements in music and art of all forms. Creating music can serve as a powerful tool for personal healing and growth and expression. Early musical experiences can shape an artist's approach to creativity and their relationship with music and thus carry on the creation of music. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link Tune-Yards Links: https://tune-yards.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tuneyards/ https://www.facebook.com/tuneyards/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oU4wLkBnwIM https://tune-yards.bandcamp.com/ TUNE-YARDS BIO: Formed by Merrill Garbus in 2006, Tune-Yards has become a name synonymous with creativity and forward motion. Known for explosive performances, surprising song structures, and danceable rhythms, their music also highlights connections between song and social consciousness. The New York Times praised their debut album, BiRd-BrAiNs, as “a confident do-it-yourselfer’s opening salvo,” and relentless touring established Garbus as a commanding live performer. Garbus stepped into the producer role with 2011’s w h o k i l l, a bold and sonically inventive album that earned critical acclaim, including the #1 spot on The Village Voice’s Pazz and Jop poll. By 2021’s sketchy., Garbus and bassist Nate Brenner had solidified their partnership, creating a fully collaborative work. The duo has announced their sixth studio record, Better Dreaming, to be released on May 16, 2025 on 4AD. Tune-Yards also excels in scoring, contributing to Boots Riley’s Sorry to Bother You, I’m A Virgo, and the forthcoming I Love Boosters. Their artistry continues to expand across music, film, and television. Esotérica Tropical: https://www.esotericatropical.com/ https://www.instagram.com/esotericatropical/ https://www.facebook.com/esotericatropical https://soundcloud.com/esotericatropical https://esotericatropical.bandcamp.com/ Esotérica Tropical BIO: Esotérica Tropical is a queer Boricua bruja who transcends musical boundaries with her commanding voice, intuitive folk harp, and a fusion of Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba rhythms and electronic innovation. Her work boldly challenges colonial mentality, advocating for sovereignty and surrealism. A chance encounter with a Celtic harp on a Puerto Rican beach in 2009 transformed her from an acupuncturist into a genre-defying musical magician. Drawing on 20 years as a healer, Esotérica’s ritualistic performances have captivated audiences at major venues and festivals worldwide including, Festival Color Caribe (PR), Oakland Museum of California, Teatro Municipal de Cusco (Perú), and Teatro el Supremo (CDMX). In 2022, she featured on Argentinian producer Chancha Via Circuito’s album La Estrella. Her self-titled debut album was named the Best Bay Area Music in 2024 by KQED.

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