Tyler Bryant's musical journey embodies the purest essence of artistic dedication. From the moment he left his tiny Texas town of 1,700 people at age 17, armed with nothing but talent and determination, his singular focus has been creating authentic music that resonates. That unwavering commitment has evolved into a Grammy-winning career spanning performance, songwriting, and production. What strikes you immediately about Bryant is his refreshing perspective on success. Where once it meant packe...
Jul 10, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 6Ep. 8
Guitar virtuoso Joe Bonamassa returns to Chewing the Gristle, bringing his characteristic wit and wisdom as he prepares for an ambitious European tour season. This conversation between two master guitarists reveals the realities of sustaining a music career with both artistic integrity and business savvy. Bonamassa takes us behind the scenes of his upcoming three-month European adventure, which includes solo performances, a Black Country Communion reunion after 14 years, and a special tribute to...
Jul 03, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 6Ep. 7
Greg Koch welcomes YouTube guitar sensation and touring musician Ben Eller (Uncle Ben) to the Gristle fire for a conversation that meanders from lighthearted Waffle House tales to profound insights about musical authenticity. Ben shares how his guitar journey and popular YouTube channel were born from simple boredom - first as a homeschooled kid with time to kill, later as a guitar teacher with creative energy to burn. His candid "This is Why You Suck at Guitar" series emerged from the thoughts ...
Jun 26, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 6Ep. 6
What happens when two guitar virtuosos reunite after years apart? Greg Koch welcomes his former mentor Mike Irish to Chewing the Gristle for a masterclass in musical wisdom that spans far beyond technique. Mike Irish, who taught at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point when Greg was a student, shares his refreshingly inclusive teaching philosophy that embraced students' existing musical interests instead of forcing them into traditional jazz molds. "I really had no desire to make more Joe Pa...
Jun 19, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Season 6Ep. 5
When blues powerhouse Albert Castiglia crossed paths with Bill Murray, neither could have predicted the musical partnership that would follow. In this captivating conversation with Greg Koch, Castiglia pulls back the curtain on how a Hollywood legend became his unexpected bandmate through a series of serendipitous connections that began with Murray's brother John. "If Bill Murray wants to play in your band, you let him in your band," Castiglia remarks with characteristic humor. But beneath the c...
Jun 12, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Season 6Ep. 4
Dave Hill seamlessly blends virtuosic guitar playing with razor-sharp comedy, creating an entirely unique performance experience that defies categorization. In this captivating conversation with Greg Koch, Dave reveals the unexpected path that led him from his Cleveland roots as a rock musician to becoming a multifaceted comedian, author, and performer in New York City. The heart of Dave's artistic evolution came when he discovered audiences found genuine humor in his guitar prowess. "When I rea...
Jun 05, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 6Ep. 3
Seth Rosenbloom, the fiery young blues guitarist from Massachusetts, brings his wealth of musical knowledge and performing experience to the Chewing the Gristle podcast. What begins as a gear chat about Two Rock amplifiers quickly evolves into a fascinating exploration of musical authenticity and the hard realities of making a living as a performing musician. When Seth discovered his prized 1956 Stratocaster at Lark Street Music, it changed his entire perspective on the instrument. "It's not as ...
May 29, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 6Ep. 2
What does it take to become a musical chameleon who commands respect across diverse genres? Daniel Kimbro delivers a masterclass in musical versatility on this episode of Chewing the Gristle. From his beginnings in a family folk band called Mountain Soul to his current status as bassist for Jerry Douglas and session player on Eric Clapton records, Daniel shares the winding path that shaped his musical identity. With disarming honesty, he reveals how growing up surrounded by Stanley Brothers, Sti...
May 22, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 6Ep. 1
Ever wondered how blues rock guitar maestro Jeff McErlain from Brooklyn, New York, balances the dual life of performing and teaching? Join us on a soulful journey as we chat with Jeff about his thriving career, his popular teaching platform jmguitarlessons.com, and his engaging YouTube content. You'll get a glimpse into the camaraderie and shared stories that highlight our musical lives' unique challenges and joys, from the practicalities of touring to the ever-present dilemma of choosing the pe...
Aug 22, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 5Ep. 23
What if your musical idols became your mentors? In our latest episode, we sit down with the extraordinary guitarist Allen Hinds to uncover the stories behind his transformative journey from the Southern rock roots of Minnesota and Alabama to the creative hub of Los Angeles. Allen Hinds shares how iconic bands like the Allman Brothers and Cream shaped his musical identity, while also reflecting on the rich and diverse influences of the South. Listen as he recounts his humbling yet pivotal experie...
Aug 15, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 5Ep. 22
Ever wondered what it feels like to tour the world with some of the biggest names in music? Join us as we catch up with the incomparable Jeff Kollman, who brings his electrifying stories from the road and insights into his latest record. From working with Alan Parsons and the Bombastic Meatbats to his own band, Cosmosquad, Jeff's journey through the musical landscape is nothing short of extraordinary. Plus, we dive into his regular performances in Japan and his daughter's new adventures studying...
Aug 08, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 5Ep. 21
What if you could capture the essence of legendary live performances while maintaining your distinct sound? Join us in this episode of Chewing the Gristle as we sit down with the iconic Carl Verheyen. From memorable gigs across Italy, London, and the renowned NAMM show to Carl's innovative touring strategies, our conversation is full of captivating stories and practical insights. Gearheads, this one's for you! We explore the nitty-gritty of achieving that perfect guitar tone, with Carl sharing h...
Aug 01, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 5Ep. 20
What happens when a young Brazilian guitarist, inspired by ACDC, stumbles upon blues legend John Lee Hooker through a stroke of radio interference? Join us as Art Menezes takes us through his incredible musical journey, from the vibrant streets of Fortaleza to the bustling blues hubs of Los Angeles and Chicago. Art recounts his self-taught beginnings, pivotal career moments, and the cultural backdrop that shaped his unique sound. It's a story of passion and perseverance, guaranteed to resonate w...
Jul 25, 2024•55 min•Season 5Ep. 19
Get ready for an unforgettable ride as we catch up with Texas blues rock legend Van Wilks , right here on Chewing the Gristle. From the sweltering Austin heat, Van shares captivating tales from his vibrant musical journey, including the moment he first saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan in Lubbock. You'll hear all about his memorable performance at the Dallas International Guitar Show and the rich musical tapestry of his early years, influenced by his uncles' country swing bands and the dynamic Texa...
Jul 18, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 5Ep. 18
What if you could experience the essence of a city's musical heartbeat and the stories of those who keep it alive? Join us for the season premiere of Chewing the Gristle, where we sit down with the ever-versatile Joe Mass. From his mastery in jazz, fusion, and rock, to his unique role as a Neil Young tribute artist, Joe's journey is nothing short of fascinating. He shares vivid tales of recording under the legendary Bootsy Collins' label and memorable collaborations with artists like Jimmy Hasli...
Jun 27, 2024•55 min•Season 5Ep. 17
What happens when a passion for blues guitar, a serendipitous encounter, and a love for cold pizza collide? You get the legendary Buddy Whittington! Join us for an unforgettable conversation with the Texas blues guitar powerhouse and former member of John Mayall's Blues Breakers. Buddy shares the incredible story of how he landed a 15-year gig with the Blues Breakers, his unique morning rituals, and his humorous attempts to stay healthy. We also dive into his admiration for guitar legends like C...
Jun 20, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 5Ep. 16
What if you could blend traditional blues with inventive hooks to create a sound that captivates audiences? Join us on "Chewing the Gristle" as we welcome back the legendary slide guitar virtuoso Rick Vito to explore this very question. Rick takes us inside his creative haven in Tennessee, where he crafts his latest masterpiece "Cadillac Man" surrounded by iconic instruments, including Peter Green's Armstrong archtop and a nearly century-old National Triolian. Our conversation with Rick Vito als...
Jun 14, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 5Ep. 15
Strap in for a musical odyssey with Texas guitar virtuoso Chris Duarte. This episode is a treasure trove of candid tales and wisdom from the road, offering a glimpse behind the curtain of a touring musician's life. From the logistical ballet of organizing a band to the financial tightrope walk of keeping the music playing. We revel in the memories of our early days, when young ambition and raw talent propelled us from eager protégés to masters of our art. Gearheads and aspiring musicians alike w...
May 30, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 5Ep. 14
When Gary Hoey picked up his first guitar, little did he know how he'd leave his mark on the world of rock. In our latest episode, Gary takes us on a nostalgic trip, recounting his transition from band life to forging a successful solo career, reminding us that the road to musical mastery is as twisted as a guitar solo (but just as exhilarating). We share the lesson of a musician's son whose two-year program trumped a four-year degree, a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more. Our co...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 5Ep. 13
Strap in and let your ears savor the melodic tales of Dave Scher, an Austin guitar luminary who's strumming his way into our hearts here on Chewing the Gristle. Dave unpacks the chords of his musical voyage, from sharpening his skills at the esteemed Berklee College of Music to his current jam-packed tours with rock legends Fastball.
May 16, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 5Ep. 12
As the echo of guitar strings fades into memory, we sit down with the esteemed Andy Aledort, whose fingers have danced along fretboards in harmony with the legendary Dickey Betts. Our conversation takes you on a backstage tour of those hazy, adrenaline-fueled days and the poignant reflections on an era that shaped the very fabric of rock music. Andy's tales of camaraderie and the birth of his latest record spin a yarn of passion and perseverance, revealing the untold stories of life on the road ...
May 09, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 5Ep. 11
Ever found yourself in stitches over a case of mistaken identity? I certainly have, and in this groove-packed episode, my friend Ken Haas from Reverend Guitars joins me to recount those laugh-out-loud moments. We're talking everything from Mick Fleetwood doppelgängers to the impact of Rick Vito’s undeniable charisma on Reverend's storied history. As we look back at our shared adventures, we also drop hints about the exciting collaborations that are brewing on the horizon. It's a harmony of humor...
May 02, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 5Ep. 10
When Larry McCray's soulful voice and fiery guitar licks join the fray, you know you're in for an electrifying episode of Chewing the Gristle. Season 5 ignites with a homespun blend of stories and strums as Larry details his incredible shift from the assembly lines of GM to the main stages of blues music. We wander through the quirky streets of Smackover, Arkansas, Larry's own stomping grounds, and unearth its peculiar place in the annals of oil history. Strap in, gear enthusiasts, because we al...
Apr 25, 2024•1 hr•Season 5Ep. 9
Strap in, gristle tribe, because our latest jam session with blues-rock maestro Davey Knowles is a deep dive into the soulful crossroads where British folk meets Americana. Hailing from the Isle of Man, Davey's heartfelt anecdotes reveal his journey to the heartland of Chicagoland's music scene, and the unvarnished joy of acoustic performances that followed his recent album drop. As we stoke the gristle campfire, you'll feel the vibrancy of English folk legends Bert Janch and Davy Graham through...
Apr 11, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Season 5Ep. 8
Jimmy Hall is a vocalist, harpist, and saxophonist extraordinaire. He is known for his time with Wet Willie, Jeff Beck, the Dickey Betts band, Hank Williams Jr., and as a recent contributor to the Allman Betts Family Revival. Today the mighty Mr. Hall joins Greg to chew the gristle! 2:46 - Jimmy’s upbringing, his draw to music, and the early years in Georgia with the Allman Brothers 22:02 - Turning pro and receiving support from his parents 24:42 - How to sing in a LOUD band 30:27 - Back to Geor...
Mar 28, 2024•57 min•Season 5Ep. 7
Mike Zito has been a fixture of the American blues and roots scene for a long time, with 17 albums to his own name, along with ime spent in the Royal Southern Brotherhood and The Wheel. He's an incendiary guitar player, vocalist extraordinaire, true blues-cat, rock-n-roller, and an all-around cool dude! Greg and and Mike get into it all on this episode of gristle! 2:05 - What’s new with Mike - building up his record label, and the ups and downs of being on the road 16:00 - Formal guitar educatio...
Mar 21, 2024•59 min•Season 5Ep. 6
Stephen Hull is a young Wisconsin native who has taken the international blues world by storm, and connected with Greg while on tour in Buenos Aires! Blues Blast magazine called him a "blues dynamo, capable of nailing just about any blues style, yet somehow projecting a distinct, personal voice." The talk road gear and everything else on this addition of Chewing the Gristle! 2:24 - Touring Brazil, and enjoying the warmth of winter below the equator 5:12 - Escaping Wisconsin to tour the world, an...
Mar 14, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 5Ep. 7
Toronzo Cannon, hailing from Chicago IL, likes to do things The Chicago Way. He's an Alligator recording artist, bluesman extraordinaire, southpaw, and a cool cat! Mojo Magazine said Toronzo "rises to the front rank of Chicago bluesmen" and The Chicago Sun-Times said "The Bridgeport resident (and CTA bus driver) (is) one of Chicago’s new greats". Dig it as Greg and Toronzo get into the Gristle! 1:58 - Who here is a huge Jimi Hendrix fan? And what drew Toronzo to wanting to music and playing guit...
Feb 29, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 5Ep. 5
Dylan Adams is a slide guitar player extraordinaire. Greg first discovered him as many of us have, on social media playing up a storm! Greg was taken away by his beautiful technique, tone, and touch. Dylan has made that heavy impression on many via his Instagram and YouTube accounts, and today Greg and Dylan catch up for a very slide-oriented Chewing the Gristle! 3:03 - The resurgence of slide guitar, Dylan’s own unique voice, and The Allman Bros 8:46 - What interested Dylan in slide guitar, and...
Feb 15, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 5Ep. 4
Reggie is bass royalty in LA, where he has been a first-call session and touring bassist for many years. He has toured or recorded with Seal, Eros Ramazzotti, Babyface, Queen Latifah, Billy Childs, Christina Aguilera, Ricky Martin, Bette Midler, George Duke, Whitney Houston, Stanley Clarke, David Lynch, John Mellencamp, Warren Zevon, Mariah Carey, Tina Turner, Tiziano Ferro, Boyz II Men, Johnny Hallyday and many, many others. Greg and Reggie get into the Gristle! 2:38 - Touring with Chris Bodie,...
Feb 08, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Season 5Ep. 3
