Free Daily Podcast Summary
LaunchLeft: Daily Summaries Delivered
by LaunchLeft and Kast Media
LaunchLeft is a music discovery podcast where famed creatives launch emerging artists. Hosted by Rain Phoenix, you can expect in-depth conversations with well-known musicians discussing their process and, throwing light to emerging artists. LaunchLeft is an alliance of artists who break from the norm and lean into the unique. We enlist famed creatives to launch emerging artists.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 1 weeks ago1h 6m
IAN SVENONIUS launches Crush
Guest host Ian Svenonius takes over LaunchLeft to explore the boundaries of underground rock and roll. As an author, musician, and filmmaker, Ian shares his unique perspective on navigating music industry trends, exploring various music genres, and preserving artistic authenticity in a highly digital world. Ian officially launches the independent music duo Crush, featuring Cole Alexander and Zumi Rosow of the Black Lips. Cole and Zumi discuss their debut vinyl release, the raw power of the live music experience, and how they channel their creative chaos to formulate a sound that refuses to be categorized or restrained. What You Will Learn in This Episode✅ How Crush maintains creative control across multiple music genres. ✅ Why the live music experience is vital for independent musicians. ✅ The impact of musical influences on their artistic philosophy. ✅ How to harness creative chaos to craft true underground rock and roll. LaunchLeft champions artists for whom radical creativity is a necessity. Support these artists by streaming, sharing, and showing up at live events. Donate to keep independent, left-of-center voices thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review to help more listeners discover LaunchLeft! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Guest host Ian Svenonius launches the band Crush 03:10 Cole Alexander and Zumi Rosow explain their varied musical influences and rejecting strict music genres. 06:20 Zumi Rosow reflects on learning the saxophone in rock and childhood art programs. 11:25 How the saxophone cuts through the noise in rock and roll history. 17:15 The band details their debut vinyl release and preserving the live music experience. 20:15 The group jokes about playing with holograms and super intelligence technology. 25:55 Ian coins a new genre called Malibu Barbie Dream House Rock. 29:30 Unpacking the concept of the chaos frequency. 36:10 The conversation shifts to OCD, religious rituals, and ancient history. 01:00:37 Ian wraps up this masterclass in underground rock and roll. TAKEAWAYS 💎 Blending multiple music genres allows bands to avoid being boxed in. 💎 Leaning into creative chaos forces audiences to stay present and experience the moment.💎 Withholding immediate digital access can build anticipation and restores value to physical music. 💎 True underground rock and roll relies on genuine artistic authenticity and creative control. ABOUT THE GUESTS Crush is an electrifying independent music duo formed by Cole Alexander and Zumi Rosow, both prominent members of the Black Lips. Zumi is a multi-instrumentalist, artist, and designer who brings distinct saxophone skills and visual flair to the project. Cole, a singer and guitarist, provides a raw and unpredictable energy that defines their sound. Together, they released their highly anticipated debut 45 on Glue Moon Records. They are dedicated to delivering an unmatched live music experience that challenges modern music industry trends. Cole: https://www.instagram.com/oldkingcoleyounger/ Zumi: https://www.instagram.com/fangusz666/ ABOUT THE HOST Ian Svenonius is an acclaimed author, musician, and filmmaker renowned in the underground music scene. He has released numerous books and dozens of records, consistently pushing boundaries with his artistic philosophy. Currently, his latest record is ESCAPE-ISM’s "Charge of The Love Brigade" on Radical Elite Records. He recently wrote and produced a stage play called "The Story of Johnny Lightning," cementing his status as a multi disciplinary creator. His expanded edition of "Supernatural Strategies for Making a Rock ’n’ Roll Group" continues to influence DIY music artists globally. https://www.iansvenonius.com Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/ian_f_svenonius/ RESOURCES MENTIONED Come On Blood 7" by CRUSH LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link KEYWORDS LaunchLeft podcast, Ian Svenonius interview, Crush, Black Lips, in
- Sep 29, 20261h 12m
MELISSA AUF DER MAUR launches Petra Szilagyi
Musician, photographer and writer Melissa Auf der Maur shares stories from her memoir Even the Good Girls Will Cry and her pro human artistic approach. She explores her analog era artistic process from her touring years before digital media transformed creative culture. Melissa, host of this episode, launches interdisciplinary sculptor Petra Szilagyi to discuss their interactive prayer space work and the Apocalypse Anonymous project. Together, they explore a 12 step spiritual framework, sacred artistic spaces, and how independent artists build community outside corporate spaces. What You Will Learn in This Episode ✅ How Melissa Auf der Maur draws from her analog era artistic process.✅ Why Petra Szilagyi built an interactive prayer space for real connection. ✅ How the Apocalypse Anonymous project creates community through recovery. ✅ How cross generational creative connection sustains art outside corporate spaces. LaunchLeft champions artists for whom radical creativity is a necessity. Support these artists by streaming, sharing, and showing up at live events. Donate to keep independent, left-of-center voices thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review to help more listeners discover LaunchLeft! TIMESTAMPS 00:05 Melissa Auf der Maur introduces Petra Szilagyi 02:07 Meeting through Hawthorne Valley Farm and shared spiritual Waldorf connections 10:10 Breakthrough spiritual moments and Melissa on memoir Even the Good Girls Will Cry 18:00 Petra on studying politics, music, and the unveiling after September 11th 23:30 Studying performance art, West Africa experiences, and Yoruba knowledge systems 28:20 Leaving tour life to found Basilica Hudson non profit arts center 36:30 Petra on 12 step recovery, prayer, and building the first interactive prayer space 44:48 Petra Szilagyi is launched as they discuss post human experience and technology 55:02 Exploring the Apocalypse Anonymous project and redefining the apocalypse 01:05:24 Translating 12 step spiritual framework into community arts and future gatherings KEY TAKEAWAYS True creative freedom requires stepping away from digital noise to build grounded physical spaces for community. Embracing an interactive prayer space allows artists to foster spiritual connection without relying on rigid religious dogma. The Apocalypse Anonymous project shows how recovery tools can transform existential anxiety into collective artistic expression. Long-term artistic authenticity thrives when creators build independent platforms and foster cross generational creative connection. ABOUT THE GUESTS MELISSA AUF DER MAUR Before becoming the bassist for 90s alternative rock bands Hole and the Smashing Pumpkins, Montreal born Melissa Auf der Maur studied photography at Concordia University. She maintained her daily practice while on the road, requesting a roll of 35mm film at every venue as part of her rider, resulting in over 10,000 images documenting life onstage and away from crowds. A major exhibition of Auf der Maur's photographs is on view at the Art Gallery of Ontario from September 2, 2026, accompanied by a hardback photobook published by the AGO and DelMonico Books. Her photographs have been featured in National Geographic and Spin, and in 2010 she cofounded the non profit arts center Basilica Hudson in upstate New York. This past March, Auf der Maur published her memoir, Even the Good Girls Will Cry. PETRA SZILAGYI Petra Szilagyi is an interdisciplinary sculptor, artist, and educator currently based in Somerville, Massachusetts. Raised in Los Angeles and educated at Williams College and VCU, Szilagyi works extensively with woodworking, installation, performance, and visual art and sculpture. Their work focuses on exploring spiritual awakening through contemporary art and sculpture while designing non denominational sacred artistic spaces that invite public participation. Szilagyi created the Apocalypse Anonymous project, an interactive initiative blending a 12 step spiritual framework with contemporary art and performance. Their installations have been featured at major venues including MASS MoCA and the Center for Contemporary Arts in Lagos, Nigeria. RESOURCES MENTIONED Even the Good Girls Will Cry by Melissa Auf der Maur Basilica Hu
- Aug 25, 202654 min
THEY MIGHT BE GIANTS launch Tele Novella
Guest host Rich Tupica sits down for an electrifying John Flansburgh interview, diving headfirst into four decades of They Might Be Giants magic. John shares insider stories about their latest album, The World Is to Dig, the true craft behind pop music songwriting, wild vocal lessons, and why staying curious keeps an indie band thriving. Then, John proudly launches Texas duo Tele Novella, taking listeners into their world of folk fantasy music. Discover how their cassette-tracked magic and visual flair prove that radical DIY artistry is alive and kicking. What You’ll Learn This Episode: ✅ How John Flansburgh approaches pop music songwriting and creative growth. ✅ Why Tele Novella embraces folk fantasy music and theatrical visual art. ✅ The role of independent record labels in shaping underground scenes. ✅ How vocal training for singers and studio curiosity foster longevity. LaunchLeft champions artists for whom radical creativity is a necessity. Support these artists by streaming, sharing, and showing up at live events. Donate to keep independent, left-of-center voices thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review to help more listeners discover LaunchLeft! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Rich Tupica welcomes John Flansburgh to discuss the new They Might Be Giants album, The World Is to Dig 01:45 John on choosing power pop covers like Starry Eyes and Istanbul 05:00 Reflections on DJing, doo-wop, and vintage musical gear techniques 08:45 Thoughts on Alex Chilton, Paul Westerberg, and fame 16:25 Aiming for pure pop music songwriting and crafting memorable melodies 20:30 Recording studio experimentation behind the instrumental Peggy Guggenheim 25:20 The reality of Dial-A-Song, tour props, and visual art decisions 31:55 Michael Azerrad profile and taking vocal training for singers 42:10 Early punk rock history memories and seeing bands at The Rat 46:55 Second guest is launched: John introduces Tele Novella KEY TAKEAWAYS 💎 Creative freedom thrives when artists focus on making captivating work rather than chasing temporary industry trends. 💎 Tele Novella builds a distinct identity by pairing analog textures with theatrical storytelling free of self-conscious vanity. 💎 True artistic longevity requires curiosity, continuous skill development, and embracing studio experimentation. 💎 Performing for small, dedicated crowds builds resilient foundational confidence that sustains long musical careers. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link JOHN FLANSBURGH LINKS: https://www.theymightbegiants.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tmbghq/
- Jul 28, 202618 min
CHUCK D & JOHN DENSMORE launch Jabee & Kamau Daaood
Music icons Chuck D of Public Enemy and John Densmore of The Doors explore the concept of LaunchLeft and examine how raw creative expression bridges generations. The conversation centers on the intersection of hip hop and poetry, highlighting how rhythms and spoken word art carry powerful cultural histories. Shifting the spotlight left of center, these legends launch two phenomenal independent creators: Oklahoma City rapper and community activist Jabee, and visionary LA poet Kamau Daaood. From founding historic jazz spaces to using hip hop for neighborhood revitalization, this episode uncovers how building community through independent music creates an enduring artistic legacy. What You’ll Learn This Episode: ✅ How John Densmore honors social justice poetry and uses music mentorship to elevate new voices ✅ Why Jabee embraces a grassroots movement framework to transform local communities ✅ The power of a collaborative record to unite diverse genres like jazz and hip hop ✅ How independent creators preserve creative expression by staying true to their neighborhoods LaunchLeft champions artists for whom radical creativity is a necessity. Support these artists by streaming, sharing, and showing up at live events. Donate to keep independent, left-of-center voices thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review to help more listeners discover LaunchLeft! IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Shepard Fairey welcomes musical icons John Densmore and Chuck D 01:19 John Densmore details his collaborative record work and poetry appreciation 02:23 John Densmore recites powerful social justice poetry from Etheridge Knight 05:02 Kamau Daaood is launched as a visionary LA poet and community organizer 06:48 Reciting Kamau Daaood's evocative stanzas on the jazz and hip hop space 08:15 Jabee is launched as Chuck D introduces the independent hip hop artist 09:08 Chuck D explains the grassroots movement behind discovering Jabee online 11:55 How Jabee transformed early radio airplay into sustained community activism 14:59 Chuck D on his collaborative record curation with emerging Canadian vocalists 17:05 Jabee shares a personal audio message honoring Chuck D's music mentorship KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎 Artistic freedom thrives when creators protect their raw creative expression without corporate compromise. 💎 Independent creators can leverage their localized platforms to spark a powerful grassroots movement. 💎 Real community activism builds sustainable creative ecosystems that outlast standard promotional cycles. 💎 A true artistic legacy is cemented by mentoring and launching the next generation of rule breakers. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link SHEPARD FAIREY https://obeygiant.com https://www.instagram.com/obeygiant https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shepard_Fairey CHUCK D https://www.instagram.com/mrchuckd https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chuck_D JOHN DENSMORE https://www.johndensmore.com https://www.instagram.com/johndensmore https://www.facebook.com/johndensmore1 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Densmore JABEE LINKS: https://www.instagram.com/mynameisjabee https://jabee-mmg.bandcamp.com/ KAMAU DAAOOD LINKS: https://www.leimertparkmovie.com/team/kamau-daaood/ BIOGRAPHIES: John Densmore is the legendary drummer of the
- Jun 30, 20261h 15m
SHEPARD FAIREY launches DOPE
Shepard Fairey hosts cultural icons Chuck D of Public Enemy and John Densmore of The Doors as they discuss their groundbreaking collaboration, DOPE | No Country for Old Men. What happens when different genres collide with a purpose? Their conversation explores activism, artistic responsibility, hip hop and rock history, creative evolution, spoken word, poetry, social change, and the power of music to challenge systems. Together, they reveal how generations of artists can unite to create meaningful work in a time of distraction and division. What You Will Learn in This Episode:✅ How Chuck D and John Densmore merged hip hop, rock, poetry, and activism to create DOPE. ✅ Why artists have a responsibility to challenge power structures and inspire critical thinking. ✅ The similarities between rap lyricism, spoken word poetry, and jazz improvisation. ✅ How collaboration across generations and genres can spark new creativity and cultural dialogue. LaunchLeft champions artists for whom radical creativity is a necessity. Support these artists by streaming, sharing, and showing up at live events. Donate to keep independent, left-of-center voices thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review to help more listeners discover LaunchLeft! TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Welcome to LaunchLeft 00:01:34 Shepard Fairey praises Chuck D's book Hour of Chaos 00:05:58 Activism, civil rights movements, and why DOPE matters now 00:17:00 How the DOPE collaboration first came together 00:22:54 John Densmore on rap as an art form equal to jazz improvisation 00:25:52 Learning hip hop production, drum machines, and creative evolution 00:28:15 Etheridge Knight, poetry, and spoken word influences on the album 00:38:00 "Artificial Intelligence vs. Ancestral Intelligence" discussion 00:44:29 Revisiting Doors history through the song "Doomsday" 00:46:56 "Everybody gets older, but they don't get elder" 01:05:21 Building bridges through art, education, and cultural conversation KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎Great Art Bridges Generations and Genres: DOPE demonstrates that meaningful collaboration isn't limited by age, genre, or background. Chuck D and John Densmore found common ground through activism, storytelling, and a shared desire to create art that matters. 💎Activism Remains Central to Creativity: Music can be a vehicle for social awareness and change. Their work continues the tradition of artists using their platforms to challenge injustice and inspire dialogue. 💎Hip Hop and Rock Share More Than People Realize: The conversation reveals deep connections between rap, rock, jazz, poetry, and spoken word. Great music transcends genre labels and is rooted in expression, rhythm, and truth. 💎Experience Doesn't Automatically Create Wisdom: One of the most powerful themes is the distinction between aging and becoming an elder. The discussion centers on mentorship, responsibility, and passing knowledge to future generations. ABOUT THE GUESTS: SHEPARD FAIREY is a contemporary street artist, graphic designer, activist, and founder of OBEY Clothing and creative agency Studio Number One. In 1989, while at Rhode Island School of Design studying for his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration, Shepard Fairey created the “Andre the Giant has a Posse” sticker that later evolved into the OBEY GIANT art campaign. In 2008, his portrait of then-Democratic candidate Barack Obama became an internationally recognized emblem of hope. He is known for the “We The People” campaign debuted during the 2017 Women’s Marches worldwide. Fairey has painted more than 140 public murals, become one of the most sought-after and provocative artists globally, and changed the way people converse about art and view the urban landscape. JOHN DENSMORE is the drummer for the legendary rock band The Doors. In 1993, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and since then, he has earned a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In addition to his three books, the best-selling Riders on the Storm: My Life with Jim Morrison & The Doors, The Doors Unhinged: Jim Morrison’s Legacy Goes On Trial and The Seekers: Meetings With Remarkable Musicians (and Other Artists), his writing has also been featured in the Los Angeles Times, Rolling Stone, the Guardian, the Nation, and Chicago Tribu
- May 26, 202647 min
JENNY LEE (WARPAINT) launches Sierra Swan
Today on LaunchLeft, guest host Rich Tupica chats with Jenny Lee Lindberg for a candid conversation about longevity and creativity, collaboration, and artistic independence. Jenny opens up about balancing music and painting, Warpaint’s evolving future, and finding freedom through visual art. Then, Jenny launches Sierra Swan, who reflects on growing up around music, self-producing her work, and embracing a fearless DIY spirit. Together, they discuss Los Angeles nightlife, artistic authenticity, dance, and why creating without compromise matters more than ever. What You Will Learn in This Episode:✅ How Jenny Lee balances painting, songwriting, and life outside Los Angeles ✅ Why Sierra Swan embraces complete creative control over her music and visuals ✅ The impact of the changing music industry on independent artists ✅ How friendship, dance, and artistic community fuel long-term creativity LaunchLeft champions artists for whom radical creativity is a necessity. Support these artists by streaming, sharing, and showing up at live events. Donate to keep independent, left-of-center voices thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review to help more listeners discover LaunchLeft! TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Rich Tupica welcomes Jenny Lee 01:10 Jenny discusses leaving Los Angeles for Salt Lake City and how that’s impacted her creative process 04:08 Jenny opens up about ADHD, hyper-focus, and creative deadlines 05:28 Warpaint’s upcoming Meltdown Festival performance and band hiatus 08:00 Painting as therapy and rediscovering creativity during the pandemic 10:00 Jenny reflects on collaborating with Dave Gahan 14:50 Dream collaborators: André 3000 and Mark Rothko 20:14 Jenny discusses burnout and the changing music industry 28:16 Sierra Swan is launched. She shares how she met Jenny at Burning Man 37:20 Sierra previews her upcoming EP Mistress of Love and her DIY creative process KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎Creativity thrives in freedom. Painting gave Jenny a level of artistic freedom she rarely experienced in collaborative music settings. Working alone allows her to reconnect with her instincts and create without compromise or outside pressure. 💎Sierra Swan sees value in handling every aspect of her creative work herself—from songwriting and directing videos to self-releasing music. 💎The music industry has dramatically changed. Jenny reflects on how exhausting and financially unsustainable the modern music business has become for many artists. Streaming culture and constant online promotion have fundamentally shifted artistic careers. 💎Community and friendship sustain artists. Jenny and Sierra’s decades-long friendship demonstrates the importance of encouragement, collaboration, and mutual inspiration. ABOUT THE GUESTS: Jenny Lee Lindberg is a multidisciplinary artist whose creative work bridges the raw pulse of post-punk music with the intuitive expressionism of visual art. She is best known as the bassist and founding member of the critically acclaimed band Warpaint. Parallel to her music career, Jenny Lee is a prolific painter whose visual work reveals the same spontaneity and emotional honesty that defines her sound. Working primarily in acrylics and mixed media, her paintings often explore form, color, and gesture through an abstract lens. Her visual art, like her music, resists easy categorization - favoring mood, movement, and process over polish or perfection. With a DIY ethos and a fiercely independent spirit, Jenny Lee continues to evolve as an artist across mediums, crafting immersive experiences that are deeply personal, rhythmically rich, and emotionally resonant. Sierra Marie Swan was born in the San Fernando Valley with music in her blood. Her father Billy Swan had his first hit when he was sixteen with Lover Please. During Sierra’s many nights backstage while her father played rhythm guitar for Kris Kristofferson, she conjured up her own dreams of becoming a professional musician. As a teenager, Sierra listened to Prince, Queen, Oingo Boingo, The Beatles, Grant Lee Buffalo, Mozart and Patsy Cline. It was Patsy Cline who inspired her singing career. When she was 16 she began playing at L.A. coffeehouses. In 1997 Sierra joined the alternative rock band Dollshead and was signed to MCA Records. Two years later Sierra decided to leave the band and become a solo artist signing with At
- Apr 28, 202659 min
MICHAEL DES BARRES launches Night Mover
Today on LaunchLeft, rock legend Michael Des Barres joins Donita Sparks for a wildly entertaining and deeply reflective conversation on creativity, resilience, and reinvention. From glam rock beginnings and acting alongside icons to fronting The Power Station at Live Aid, Michael shares unforgettable stories, moments of happenstance and hard-earned wisdom. Plus, the rising duo Night Mover is launched. Night Mover discusses their musical history, their genre-blending sound, nightlife roots, and evolving artistry. Catch a sneak peek at one of Night Mover’s songs. What You’ll Learn This Episode: ✅How Michael Des Barres built a multi-decade career through reinvention and fearless creativity ✅Why self-belief and authenticity are essential for artistic longevity ✅The realities of rock stardom—from Live Aid to behind-the-scenes chaos ✅How Night Mover blends global disco, punk, and electronic influences into a modern sound IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction to Michael Des Barres 01:17 The importance of self-belief in artistry 06:51 Landing a role in To Sir, With Love 12:17 Moving to LA with $200 and a dream 15:28 The Power Station and near-miss opportunity 19:11 Performing at Live Aid 21:15 Writing the hit song “Obsession” 23:35 New music: “Kiss or Kill Me” 32:31 Life as a radio host on Underground Garage 41:31 Night Mover is launched 47:30 Current film project and DJ history KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎 Authenticity beats trends. Great artists don’t chase, they create. 💎 Reinvention is a skill that sustains long-term success. 💎 Rock and roll is as much about attitude and emotion as it is about sound. 💎 Collaboration and shared passion are driving forces behind new creative projects. RESOURCE LINKS: LaunchLeft Podcast Smart Link MDB Links: https://michaeldesbarres.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mdesbarres https://www.facebook.com/mdesbarres https://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelDesBarresBand NIGHT MOVER LINK: https://www.instagram.com/nightmovermusic/ BIOGRAPHIES: Michael Des Barres is an actor, rock singer, songwriter, and radio host. His arrival in the entertainment world began as a Marquis attending boarding school in England, where he first started acting at age eight in commercials and school plays. At nineteen, Michael played the androgynous rock star Rose in the nude musical The Dirtiest Show In Town. Andrew Lloyd Webber saw Michael’s performance and went backstage to tell him that he should form a real rock band. Michael quickly wrote his first song. That song lead to the formation of Silverhead, a raucous glam rock experiment. After two albums and two world tours Silverhead disbanded and Michael moved to Los Angeles where he formed the band Detective. Detective was signed to Swan Song Records by Jimmy Page and recorded two albums. In 1982 Michael formed the band Chequered Past featuring Steve Jones, Clem Burke, Nigel Harrison and Tony Sales. After they opened for Duran Duran in 1984, Michael was chosen to replace Robert Palmer as lead singer of The Power Station, fronting the band at the 1985 Live Aid concert. As a songwriter Michael co-wrote “Obsession” with Holly Knight, which was famously covered by the L.A. based New Wave group Animotion and was a number one hit in twenty-seven countries. Michael's love of acting had never subsided and in 1985 he was cast in the role of “Murdoc” in the ABC hit series MacGyver. Additional credits include Melrose Place, Seinfeld, WKRP in Cincinnati, Miami Vice, Alf, Roseanne, The Rockford Files, Northern Exposure, and many more. In 2014 Michael was asked by Steven Van Zandt to bring his encyclopedic knowledge of rock and soul music to Little Steven’s Und
- Mar 24, 202645 min
THURSTON MOORE launches Devon Ross
In this special episode of LaunchLeft, guest host Thurston Moore launches rising artist Devon Ross to celebrate the release of her new EP, Pinups. The project—a four-song digital release on Moore’s Daydream Library Series—reimagines classic tracks through Ross’s raw, minimalist, and emotionally charged lens. From analog nostalgia to DIY recording techniques, this conversation dives deep into Ross’s creative process, musical influences, and the timeless power of reinterpretation. Then, listeners will be treated to ‘Killer’, the song that first put Devon Ross on Thurston Moore’s radar. What You Will Learn in This Episode:✅ The story behind Devon Ross’s EP Pinups and its stripped-down, home-recorded sound ✅ How artists like Buddy Holly, Bob Dylan, and Randy Newman shaped Devon’s musical identity ✅ Tension between convenience and connection in modern music consumption ✅ Why cover songs can be acts of discovery, not imitation ✅ Ross’s approach to recording entirely solo using minimal tools (even a phone drum app) LaunchLeft champions artists for whom radical creativity is a necessity. Support these artists by streaming, sharing, and showing up at live events. Donate to keep independent, left-of-center voices thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review to help more listeners discover LaunchLeft! TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introducing guest host Thurston Moore who launches Devon Ross on her Pinups release day 01:24 Discussion on digital vs. analog music culture and generational perspectives 02:06 Devon shares her love for physical media and early music influences 04:18 Breakdown of Pinups distribution across streaming platforms 04:35 Devon on learning guitar through Buddy Holly songs 11:11 Thurston reflects on Devon’s minimalist yet amplified reinterpretations 17:19 Conversation shifts to Bob Dylan and Blondie’s influences 18:43 Devon reveals how she recorded Pinups entirely solo, including layered guitars 22:30 The philosophy behind cover songs and musical reinterpretation 36:05 Devon teases her upcoming full-length album loud, cool, and rocking and creative direction and shares her song KILLER KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💎Devon Ross approaches cover songs not as replicas, but as reinterpretations that reflect her own artistic voice. By maintaining the emotional core while reshaping the sonic landscape, she creates something that feels both familiar and entirely new. 💎Despite being part of a digital-native generation, Devon deeply values analog music culture—vinyl records, CDs, and physical collections. This influence shapes not only her listening habits but also her artistic sensibility, grounding her sound in timeless traditions. 💎Devon recorded Pinups entirely on her own, using minimal equipment—including a drum machine app on her phone. This stripped-down process allowed for complete creative control and emotional authenticity. This kind of intimacy often translates into a more compelling and honest listening experience. 💎Great songwriting transcends decades, whether it’s Buddy Holly in the 1950s or Randy Newman in the 1970s. Devon gravitates toward songs with strong emotional resonance, proving that simplicity and sincerity remain powerful across generations. 💎While Pinups is a focused, intimate project, Devon hints at a bigger, louder, and more fully realized full-length album on the horizon. The groundwork laid by this EP reflects her evolving confidence and artistic clarity. ABOUT THE GUEST: Thurston Moore started Sonic Youth in 1980. Since then Thurston Moore has been at the forefront of the alternative rock scene since that particular sobriquet was first used to signify any music that challenged and defied the mainstream standard. With Sonic Youth, Moore turned on an entire generation to the value of experimentation in rock n roll – from its inspiration on a nascent Nirvana, to Sonic Youth’s own Daydream Nation album being chosen by the US Library of Congress for historical preservation in the National Recording Registry in 2006. Thurston records and performs in a cavalcade of disciplines ranging from free improvisation to acoustic composition to black/white metal/noise disruption. He has worked with Yoko Ono, John Zorn, Bobby Gillespie, David Toop, Cecil Taylor, John Paul Jones, Faust, Glenn Branca and man
About LaunchLeft
LaunchLeft is a music discovery podcast where famed creatives launch emerging artists. Hosted by Rain Phoenix, you can expect in-depth conversations with well-known musicians discussing their process and, throwing light to emerging artists. LaunchLeft is an alliance of artists who break from the norm and lean into the unique. We enlist famed creatives to launch emerging artists.
Customized Recaps
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Straight to Your Inbox
Get key takeaways from LaunchLeft in a 5-minute read.
Save Hours Every Week
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Podzilla's LaunchLeft daily summary?
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of LaunchLeft as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
How does the LaunchLeft podcast summary work?
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
Is this an official LaunchLeft product?
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by LaunchLeft and Kast Media.
Can I get summaries of other podcasts too?
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts, any in the catalog. Basic raises that to 15, Pro to 40 and Max to 100. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
How often does LaunchLeft release new episodes?
LaunchLeft publishes monthly. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
What topics does LaunchLeft cover?
LaunchLeft covers topics including News, Music, Entertainment, Culture, Society & Culture. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Start getting LaunchLeft summaries tomorrow morning.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.