Car Con Carne

Hyperlocal Chicago podcast hosted by long-running local media personality James VanOsdol. Guests include musicians, restaurateurs, brewers, authors, actors and interesting persons of note. More often than not, the interviews happen in James's car.

Inside the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 (Episode 1115) 04/05/2026

Inside the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 (Episode 1115) In this episode of Car Con Carne, James heads to downtown Joliet to step inside a three-story vault of local musical history. He sits down with founder Ron Romero to explore how a "germ of an idea" from 2012 evolved into the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66. Why you should listen: The "Underdog" Location: Discover why this massive project planted its roots in Joliet rather than Chicago, and how it’s helping revitalize the "crossroads of Mid-America." Redefining the Hall of Fame: Learn about the museum's "all music is connected" philosophy—from Mavis Staples to Naked Raygun—and how they are using a community Wiki to honor every band in Illinois history. Preserving the Future: It’s not just a collection of gear. Get a sneak peek at the museum’s lower-level recording studios and classrooms designed to train the next generation of roadies, engineers, and rock stars. The Gear: Hear the stories behind artifacts from REO Speedwagon, Cheap Trick, Styx, and the legendary Chicago Blues scene. Don’t miss: James will be spinning a 100% Illinois-minted set at Gallery Cabaret in Bucktown on Wednesday, April 22, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. ### Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They’re local, and they focus on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. And Jonathan, the guy behind Exploding House, has you covered. Beyond his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients. /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/40733930

Recreating PiL’s ‘The Flowers of Romance’ live w/ Martin Atkins (ex-PiL drummer) (Episode 1114) 03/23/2026

Finding community and catharsis: Cat Ayala of Scarlet Demore (Episode 1113) 03/12/2026

The DIY evolution: Cult Canyon’s Josh Chicoine on the making of ‘Smoke Tricks’ (Episode 1112) 03/05/2026

The DIY evolution: Cult Canyon’s Josh Chicoine on the making of ‘Smoke Tricks’ (Episode 1112) In this episode of Car Con Carne, James VanOsdol welcomes Josh Chicoine, the creative force behind Cult Canyon, to discuss the release of the debut album, Smoke Tricks. The conversation delves into the evolution of Josh's musical projects, from the raw energy of the M's and the acoustic harmonies of Cloudbirds to the collaborative and sophisticated sound of Cult Canyon. Key Highlights: The Making of Smoke Tricks: Josh explains how the album, initially inspired by string arrangements recorded in 2019, was brought to life through a grant from the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). Creative Collaborations: The album features contributions from talented musicians like Alison Chesley, Susan Voelz, and Dave Max Crawford, as well as backup vocals from Melissa Busch-Wolford and Lindsay Weinberg. DIY Spirit: Josh shares his experiences with the DIY approach to music, from producing and promoting records to filming music videos with a GoPro and a vintage VHS filter. The Influence of Chicago: The city of Chicago serves as a backdrop for the album, with Josh reflecting on his relationship with the city and the local music scene. Second Hand News: Josh and James discuss his involvement in the Fleetwood Mac tribute band, Second Hand News, and the transgenerational appeal of the legendary band's music. Album Information: Item Details Artist Cult Canyon Album Title Smoke Tricks Release Date March 13, 2026 Label Rattleback Records Release Show The Hideout, March 14, 2026 This episode is brought to you by Exploding House Printing. Based in Hermosa, they specialize in screen printing, embroidery, and custom merch for bands and brands. Visit for a quote. Episode Transcript James VanOsdol: This right here is Car Con Carne. Car Con Carne is a Q101 podcast. I'm James VanOsdol. Car Con Carne is brought to you by Exploding House Printing. They’re based in Hermosa and they specialize in screen printing, embroidery, and custom merch for bands and brands. Check them out on explodinghouseprinting.com. Get a quote, see all the people, businesses, bands, and brands that they’ve worked with. Explodinghouseprinting.com. (Theme song plays) James VanOsdol: So, after the Golden Line EP a few years ago, Cult Canyon is set to release its debut album, Smoke Tricks, on March 13th. The album will be released on lovely vinyl via Rattleback Records and the release will be celebrated with a live show at The Hideout the following night. Josh Chicoine, whose creative resume is deep, impressive, and familiar, joins me in the car on a rainy, dreary, just kind of shitty transitional winter-into-spring night. Josh Chicoine: Muck, winter mix. James VanOsdol: Let’s talk about Cult Canyon. We’re here, the album’s almost out as we’re sitting here talking about it. Josh Chicoine: It is. James VanOsdol: A lot of us came to know you from your time with the M’s earlier this century. Have you metaphorically moved from the garage to the living room with these projects? Josh Chicoine: It feels like I have. I mean, there was definitely a lot of garage influences happening with the M's. Certainly a DIY spirit. James VanOsdol: That kind of raw immediacy. Josh Chicoine: Yeah, I think we were trying to—well, it was of the time too. So this was the early 2000s, there was a lot of that stuff rolling around. And we kind of fit into that mix and just wanted to bring our own little flavor, which is heavily melodic, a lot of singing, a lot of gang vocals, which is one of my favorite things to do. And still, I guess, pop ethos, you know? Major and minor chords, nothing crazy. But yeah, we got done with that and I started a three-piece singing group called Cloudbirds and did that for about three years with a couple of guys that were in the M’s also, Joey King and Glenn Russell. And that was definitely in the living room. That was acoustic guitars, sometimes we had electric, but mostly acoustic music and three-part harmonies and very folky. And it was a real welcome relief, I’d say, to almost 10 years of loud guitars and bashing drums and shouting vocals. James VanOsdol: You weren’t pounding kids anymore. Josh Chicoine: We were not. We were not, and we kind of got started late anyway. So by the time 2009 rolled around, I was probably in my mid-30s, early 30s, everybody was kind of getting into their 30s. So being on the road was just awful. I think I was about ready to have my first child. And so yeah, the whole kind of idea shifted. And so we just couldn’t sustain that. So being in a singing group and just three guys, a lot easier to organize practices and singing some sweet melodies and harmonies, and that was more my style. And I kind of chased that for a little while, and then I had a new band called Sabres and I tried to do the rock thing again in 2014 and self-released that record, put a lot of time into that record. And it was another big record. And I found out I was just really tired. The DIY thing is that you have to do it yourself. So that means producing the record, promoting the record, getting all the artwork together, getting five people—now more grown people—to get together for any rehearsal, any show. I thought it was going to maybe be a bit easier, but it just wasn't. It wasn't easy, so I had to put that down. James VanOsdol: DIY is hard. We’re doing DIY right now in a car on urban radio in 2026. I do it in my car with a couple of cheap—see how the world has shifted for us both. Josh Chicoine: It has. I might say for the better. James VanOsdol: One would argue or could argue that, yeah. We’re our own bosses. Josh Chicoine: I think so. Yeah, there you go. James VanOsdol: You’re the CEO of Cult Canyon. Josh Chicoine: I am the CEO of Cult Canyon. I have a lot of contributors and collaborators, which I’m very thankful for. James VanOsdol: Let’s talk about some of them. Alison Chesley is a contributor. Josh Chicoine: She is. She is actually appearing on the latest record. To go back to the Golden Line EP in 2019, so right before COVID, I released an EP called Josh Chicoine and it was called Dream Believers. And I was imagining this trajectory where the next bunch of songs would include a string quartet. And so in 2019, early 2019, I recorded three songs including with Susan Voelz, who’s a good friend also. James VanOsdol: She’s delightful. Josh Chicoine: Yeah, she’s delightful, she’s an old friend, she’s a great contributor, what a great spirit. And with her and a few other string players. And then COVID came, so I sat on this thing. And I sat on this thing for quite a while because part of the DIY situation that we’re in now is that there’s so much noise and there’s so many competing avenues for attention, including your couch doing nothing. That’s a big one. James VanOsdol: Yeah. Josh Chicoine: Yeah, so I sat on it and I didn’t know what I was going to do. And so I applied for a grant. It was really the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events here in Chicago, they have an individual artist program, DCASE. James VanOsdol: DCASE. Shout out to DCASE. Josh Chicoine: They have a grant program every year, and I applied and I said, you know, I’m coming back into making things and this is what I want to do. I want to make a rock record in the city of Chicago using Chicago musicians out of Chicago studios. And that was really the kind of impetus to be like, okay, what do I want this Cult Canyon thing to be? And so that’s when I looked back at those Golden Line songs, which are really lush string arrangements done by our good friend Dave Max Crawford of Poi Dog Pondering and the Total Pro Horns. And he does a fantastic job. I’ve been collaborating with him since the M’s, he did a lot of those string arrangements and horn arrangements and stuff, so he’s really adept and really tasteful. And so I was just like, why not bring it into everything that I’m doing and make Cult Canyon more of a catch-all and a place where, for one, I can do what I want and I can do it with others that I want to do it with, people that I love. And yeah, Alison Chesley, I met her through Susan because playing with quartets, you end up having a large stable of artists because people are busy or they want more money than you want to give them or can give them on any given night. So I was able to meet and reach out to a bunch of string players and continually find new ones in town that can fill a role for a time. And happily, Alison is on this record on a tune called Good Bad Habits. James VanOsdol: I love it. And the album sounds great. Now, we’re recording this right before it comes out, like I said. The album is Smoke Tricks. We’ve had—we, the public—have experienced some of it already. Real Sublime is a single. You shot a video for this one. Josh Chicoine: I did. James VanOsdol: Was that your house you shot it in? Josh Chicoine: That was at my house, yeah. James VanOsdol: Very tastefully appointed. Josh Chicoine: Thank you. That’s all due to my wife. James VanOsdol: You’ve got you in a convertible on the lakefront. Josh Chicoine: That’s my buddy Al’s ‘67 Oldsmobile. James VanOsdol: That’s badass. Josh Chicoine: Pretty badass. We all need a buddy like Al. Al’s the best. James VanOsdol: Convertible on the drive, clearly different time of year from when we’re recording this. Josh Chicoine: Yeah. James VanOsdol: And is that the lake you jumped into or did you shoot that— Josh Chicoine: Yeah, jumped into the lake. Another good friend of mine is a Great Lake jumper, Dan O’Conor. James VanOsdol: He’s a celebrated Great Lake jumper. Josh Chicoine: They continually celebrate Great Lake jumper. I think he did it for five years straight every day. And yeah, so I started going out there and doing that. So it wasn’t so far afield to imagine, because what are videos now? I don’t even know what they are. But for this one, it was like, all right, Al, let’s get in a car, let’s drive around. I got this GoPro, I’ll stick it to your car, drive around, and then let’s go to the lake and let’s jump in the lake. James VanOsdol: So it doesn’t necessarily tie back to the lyrics or the theme? Josh Chicoine: I don’t think so. I mean, but maybe somebody sees something that I don’t. I think that’s part of my MO, at least, is to leave enough fog to allow for some interpretation. But yeah, this is more of kind of a performance, roll around, get some good footage, put a 1989 VHS filter on it and make it look cool and get it out. James VanOsdol: And you’re a fan of film and what can be done with movies. Josh Chicoine: Yeah, for sure. I mean, I love film, I love movies, I love music movies. For eight years I was the co-founder and director of the Chicago International Movies and Music Festival. And we were all over the place throughout the city. And we would show movies from all over the world, like 33 countries usually were represented each year. And that was just, for me, was fascinating to figure out how to build something like that that could last and to raise money for it, you know, practicing all these adult skills that being in a van in a band on tour you’re not really practicing too much. James VanOsdol: Do you miss doing CIMMfest? Josh Chicoine: There’s a lot of it that I do. I really miss just the people and the spirit. I mean, we had an incredible group of volunteers that would come every year and really they were the ones that were able to activate this thing. And so I loved sitting around and dreaming, I loved building marketing materials, if only because then I could have something to go and take to people that I knew and a network that I was building. And I thought it was really a cool thing for the city and it really got me in touch with a lot of old friends and made so many new friends and it kept me—this was right after the M’s, and the M’s were kind of media darlings and played a lot of shows and, you know, I knew a lot of club owners and I knew publicists and I knew all that network. So it kind of allowed me personally to stay connected to that world. And coming out of there, that’s what my kind of career goals were. I was just like, okay, I want to stay in this world, I want to stay connected to these people. So it was my friend Ilko Davidov, who’s a Bulgarian filmmaker, and it was his concept. And I was just sort of the right person that was able to come and hoodwink a bunch of people into coming on board and giving me a bunch of money and being able to try to make this thing into a sustainable institution. We never quite got there. It’s always resource-light and operations-heavy. And never quite got there, but still just some great memories and really happy and really proud of what we were able to build. James VanOsdol: Thinking about film and music and making short music films, I’ve wondered this out loud on this podcast before, but I feel like this is a golden moment. This is the time for artists to explore that side of things. I mean, it’s not like the 1980s when I grew up, when videos were bankrolled by record labels and there were millions of dollars. Like, you grabbed a GoPro, you sit it on the dash—like, this is a real opportunity for creative expression, I think. I just don’t know if enough independent artists are taking advantage of it. Josh Chicoine: I mean, if you look at—I’ll have to disagree, I feel like, you know, the barriers are down and people now, everybody’s got a pretty decent camera in their pocket at all times. Since the barriers are down and since everybody’s got a camera, you can do whatever you want, put it up there, and not going to say it’s good, most of it’s not, most of it’s schlock. But you at least have the opportunity to make something that’s decent and the technology affords it. You don't even need to be great at editing. You can cobble stuff together. You really can. I mean, I use a really cheap editing software. James VanOsdol: Can I ask? Josh Chicoine: It’s called CapCut. And the same company, I can’t remember what they’re called, the TikTok corporation, ByteDance. It’s a ByteDance product. And I got it because it was cheap and another friend of mine was using it. And he was making some cool stuff, so I was just like, all right, I’m just going to dive in and start doing stuff. And so that’s what I did. James VanOsdol: That’s DIY. Roll up your sleeves, let’s get to it. Josh Chicoine: Yeah, it’s just—I had spent CIMMfest was so much about favors and so much about waiting for favors from people that you were either getting a deep discount from or not paying at all. And I know the pain, you know? And it’s real. So if you have any kind of means by which you can get a hold of this stuff, then it’s just about putting the work in and, you know, time is mine to give or throw away. So, yeah, it’s just sort of—I keep getting better and better, I mean other people can be the judge of that, but I feel pretty good about what I’ve been able to do with hardly any resources. James VanOsdol: It’s pretty cool. Josh Chicoine: Yeah, it’s pretty cool. James VanOsdol: All right, going back to this album Smoke Tricks again, available on March 13th. Bitter Birdies is how we begin. If you listen close, actually you don’t even need to listen that closely, there are dogs barking at the beginning of the song. Josh Chicoine: Yeah, Ralfy. James VanOsdol: I was going to ask. Josh Chicoine: It’s my doggie. James VanOsdol: And you were aware when you were recording the dog was part of it, right? Josh Chicoine: Yeah, well, my producer, my co-producer on this was Todd Rittmann and Todd Rittmann was in US Maple. I don’t know if you remember that band. Affiliated with Cheer-Accident, of course. James VanOsdol: Of course, always interesting. Josh Chicoine: Yes. Now he’s in Dead Rider, for everybody out there who’s watching, check out Dead Rider. Yeah, he’s fascinating, he’s got a great little studio called Shy Diamond Studio down in Logan, just north of Fullerton. And, you know, him and I kind of cobbled this thing together. And I never expected that the piano tracks were the final. So I would just make demos at my house and then I would send them to Todd and I’d be like, “Here’s what I’m thinking for this song,” and then we would try and fit it in somehow. And he was just—he’s like a maestro. He was just like, “I love it, you’re never taking away the dog’s bark. We’re keeping it in there 100%.” So I was like, “All right, let’s go.” Piano sounded fine, sounded good, it’s my piano in my living room. I loved it, and that’s my boy Ralfy. So he’s my spirit animal and I’m glad he’s on the record too. James VanOsdol: Good boy, Ralfy. Josh Chicoine: He’s a very good boy. James VanOsdol: On this song, I know you want people to interpret songs as, you know, as any artist would suggest, like you want to feel a connection, right? But you do mention “stuck here in Chicago” in that song. Were you feeling—do you feel a weird relationship with the city? Josh Chicoine: I think I love Chicago. It’s my favorite city. It’s especially my favorite city to come back to. I don’t know if you’ve ever leave for like a little while, but when you come back, it’s just like—ah. Especially when you’re driving back home and like you catch that first glimpse of the skyline. That is a moment. It’s real. So, I mean, when I got that grant from DCASE, it was like, “Oh no, now I got to write a record.” They called your bluff. Every time for me, at least, I decide to write a record, I have to figure out how to write a record again. And that—it’s like a lot of introspection and a lot of like, “Who am I now? What am I going to write about now?” And it takes a long—it took me a long time. And Bitter Birdies kind of came about based upon that piano that opens it up. I had that piece for a long time, but sort of like lyrically I wasn’t quite sure. And my wife and I are going to be married 25 years in June. James VanOsdol: Congratulations, that’s a big milestone. Josh Chicoine: Thank you. It’s been wonderful. But seven years into our relationship, there was a breakup. Post-college, I mean I was dating her since I was 19. I’ve known her for a long time. So yeah, moved to Chicago, joined a band, you know, our lives were diverging. And so we broke up. And she went—she quit her job, she was like working at a financial firm downtown. I was in a band, so you can see divergence. For sure. But yeah, she quit her job, she went on walkabout in Europe for six months. And I took myself back to that time. And that time was sort of very freeing and very fun at the beginning, and then the longing just really set in and, you know, the longer my notes and messages would go to her, the shorter and shorter that they came back to me. So it appeared like she was moving on and there was something really heart-wrenching about that for me. So yeah, that song was about that. So, you know, she was having this really great experience and seeing all new things and new people and I was here stuck in Chicago. So I was living in a loft space where Salvage One is now off of Hubbard, between Wood and Wolcott. With these crazy artist people and there were raves and I was making a bunch of music. So it was just like this Kevin Bacon Quicksilver life that I was living. And I just started to really miss her, no matter what I was just like, “What if she came back here and she lived with me in this hovel and we could do this together?” And that’s sort of the kind of emotional impulse that I felt from writing that and wanting to get out of it, you know, wanting to get out of that space. So nothing against Chicago, I love Chicago, but you know there’s definitely moments where you’re just like,... /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/40324815

LATTER: Equal Parts Art Project and Band (Episode 1111) 02/24/2026

LATTER: Equal Parts Art Project and Band (Episode 1111) Episode Overview In this episode of Car Con Carne, host James VanOsdol welcomes Meredith and Jon from the Chicago-based band Latter. Described as "equal parts art project and band," Latter delivers a sound that is jarring, experimental, and unapologetically intense. James talks with the duo about their integration into the local heavy music scene, and the raw, emotional alchemy that defines their creative process. What You’ll Hear in This Episode The "Latter" Origin Story: How a "just for funsies" Instagram post and a mutual friend brought together a New Jersey transplant and the drummer from Beach Bunny to form this formidable duo. Songwriting as Catharsis: Meredith explains why her lyrics are fueled by raw emotion, channeling whatever she is "pissed off about"—from the state of the world to personal struggles—into the music. World-Building Through Visuals: A look at the band's cinematic approach, from rmusic videos to curated Pinterest mood boards for future releases. Left-Handed Synergy: A fun look at the "similar genes" and creative connection Meredith and Jon share as two left-handed musicians. What’s Next: Details on their Audiotree session dropping March 4th and their upcoming May tour supporting Faetooth Featured Music & Mentions Album: My Body is My Sickness (2024) EP: What Lives Inside Me (2025) Key Tracks: "Bloodlines," "Expiration Date," “Callous,” and "I Don’t Owe You.” Local Ties: Shoutouts to The Empty Bottle, SubT, and their engineer Pete, the "King of Tones". About the Guests Meredith: Vocals/Guitar. A sound artist and musician originally from New Jersey and Philadelphia who uses Latter as a vehicle to "exorcise demons". Jon: Drums/Bass. Known also for his work in Beach Bunny, Jon explores his love for heavy, propulsive music and experimental tones with Latter. Sponsor Spotlight This episode is brought to you by Exploding House Printing. Based in Hermosa, they specialize in screen printing, embroidery, and custom merch for bands and brands. Visit for a quote. /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/40221995

The history of Chicago dining told in new ‘oral history’ book (Episode 1110) 02/20/2026

The Effigies + the Evictions (Episode 1109) 02/17/2026

The Effigies + the Evictions (Episode 1109) In advance of their show at Cobra Lounge on Sunday, 2/21, I’m joined by members of the Effigies and the Evictions at Cobra! Paul, Steve, and Andy from the Effigies and Johnny from the Evictions jumped in the car to preview the show and talk about the long history of Chicago music and punk. We also were treated to new items from Cobra’s pizza menu, thanks to Chef Jason: Dragged Through the Garden - poppy seed crust, sliced hot dogs, onion, sport peppers, dill pickles, green relish, mustard and celery salt Louie’s Pizza - Pepperoni, giardiniera, and calabrian chili oil Both pizzas were spectacular, but I think the hot dog pizza was really something extra special. See you at Cobra on Saturday! Apologies for not also having the Bollweevils on this episode - looks like I’ll have to have Daryl on again soon. Cobra Lounge (235 N. Ashland) - Saturday 2/21 - Effigies, Bollweevils, Evictions Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They’re local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here’s why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/40138080

Do the Dale (Episode 1108) 02/16/2026

Do the Dale (Episode 1108) Are you doin’ the Dale? You should plan on doin’ the Dale. My guests are Shawn Podgurski (DMen/Sybris) and Dave Hornyak (Livewire Lounge), organizers of Doin’ the Dale, an Avondale-centric music and arts festival happening 2/26-3/1. We met outside Avondale Tap and talked about the event, which will include (but isn’t limited to) the following: Thursday 2/26 - Dmen Tap - Art Show Friday 2/27 & Saturday 2/28 - Livewire Lounge 2 days of music Sunday 3/1 - Dmen Tap - Craft Fair This is an exclusively Avondale event - everyone is from the neighborhood. If you’re keeping track, it’ll be (roughly) 15 bands, 7 artists, 7 vendors. And how’s this for the music line-up? Lollygagger, Salvation, Autofobia, Vaudettes, Sharkula, the Sonnets, Reivers, Revel Noise, Freelapse, the Nix, Vince and Lauren, Chancey Brothers, Selfish Lovers, Werewolf Detective, Denim Daisy, Baggy Time I plan on coming out for some of it, and hope you will, too! DO THE DALE. Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They’re local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here’s why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients. /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/40123350

Pulling back the curtain on podcasting: A chat with Jaime Black (Episode 1107) 02/06/2026

La Rosa Noir: ‘Existence is resistance … I am doing this for younger me’ (Episode 1106) 01/29/2026

Time Thieves meet me at “VEGAN TACO HELL” inside Dante’s (Episode 1105) 01/28/2026

Double Identity twins embrace pop, physical media, and metaphor (Episode 1104) 01/22/2026

The Brokedowns can be wolf (Episode 1103) 01/21/2026

The Brokedowns can be wolf (Episode 1103) “You're born, you'rе cursed, and every deck is stacked.” Who are the Brokedowns? “A tradesman, two remote workers, and a pizza chef named Mustafa forged their sound in the industrial glow of Chicagoland, channeling blue-collar grit through a lens of existential comedy and transforming Midwest frustration into something loud enough to sound like hope.” The Brokedowns piled into the car to chat about their excellent new album, “Let’s Tip the Landlord.” It’s not every day you can get all four guys in the same place, so I was excited to be joined by: Kris Megyery (guitar/vocals) Eric Grossmann (guitar/vocals) Jon Balun (bass/vocals) Mustafa Daka (drums) We go deep into “Let’s Tip the Landlord,” an album that includes a saxophone, a disturbing recurring ad, loving gaslighting, the Beach Boys and Sirhan Sirhan … a must-listen! See the Brokedowns at Beat Kitchen in April! You have plenty of advance notice! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They’re local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here’s why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at exploding house printing dot com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients. /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/39810795

Comics aftermarket - flipping, speculating, and celebrating w/ Jon Belonio and Dave Zortea (Episode 1102) 01/16/2026

Dr. Daryl Wilson (Bollweevils) reviews JVO’s medical drama of past few months (Episode 1100) 01/05/2026

Dr. Daryl Wilson (Bollweevils) reviews JVO’s medical drama of past few months (Episode 1100) As I head toward the end of my appendectomy/ileocectomy recovery, I jump back into podcasting with an obvious guest: Dr. Daryl Wilson of the Bollweevils. Who better to talk through the past 2 ½ months of medical madness than a celebrated ER doctor with decades of experience? We talk through my experiences, from the moment my appendix burst through my current recovery, all discussed with a requisite amount of dark humor (and insight). If you ever wanted to know what the most vomit-inducing experience was during this period, we don’t hold back (spoiler: the colonoscopy doesn’t even come close). After Daryl “clears me” to return to podcasting and we put a bow on my appendix era, we get into Daryl’s new band, Pressure Set. It’s surprising, brand new, and something you’ll want to look out for in 2026. And don’t forget the Bollweevils: They have big plans for ‘26, as well. I’m grateful to have a friend like Daryl, and I think after listening to this episode Daryl will feel like a friend of yours, as well. So yeah… I’m back. As Daryl says in the episode, I’m “big back.” Thank you for your support, positive vibes, and kind words. Let’s have fun this year. -JVO ### Let’s talk about merch. Exploding House Printing is here for all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merchandising needs. They’re local, headquartered in the heart of Hermosa. Here’s why I want you to consider them for your t-shirts, merch, whatever - their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and the list goes on and on. Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or check out their site at explodinghouseprinting.com for a quote, or to see a list of some of their clients. /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/39618705

Guest host Gillian McGhee (Hi Ho) with Aly Jados (Blood People) - Episode 1101 12/30/2025

Guest host Jacques LaMore chats with Guardrail frontman Kevin Andrew (Episode 1099) 12/20/2025

2025 Revisited with James VanOsdol (Episode 1098) 12/08/2025

2025 Revisited with James VanOsdol (Episode 1098) I’m back for a special end-of-the-year episode! Watch/listen for a handful of memorable highlights from 2025, including two especially wonderful musical performances. As I explain early in this episode, this is in no way meant to be considered a “best of.” With over 80 episodes recorded this year, it would be impossible to pull something like that together (and incredibly unfair to my guests). Consider this an “amuse-bouche” for the podcast; a hint of what made it so much fun to host this year and a promise of more to come in 2026. Thank you to all my guests (who are each individually named in this episode), and to you for supporting the podcast. I appreciate you. -James Car Con Carne is nominated for “Best Music Podcast” in the Chicago Reader’s “Best of Chicago” survey (https://chicagoreader.com/best-of-chicago-music-nightlife-2025/). Please consider voting for the podcast - recognition like this can go a long way for a DIY, one-person operation! ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: If you’re looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space, Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions that are tailored to your lifestyle. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Bands, brands, listeners who want to get the word out: Exploding House Printing can help with your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. Exploding House delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or just email info@explodinghouseprinting.com to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/39316880

Guest host Kevin Kellam talks with SKLAR BROTHERS (Episode 1097) 12/07/2025

Guest host Jaime Black talks architecture with Stewart Hicks (Episode 1096) 12/04/2025

Guest host Kevin Kellam talks with comedian Adam Burke (Episode 1095) 12/03/2025

Drainage tubes, the colorectal surgeon, appendicitis and me (Episode 1094) 12/02/2025

Welcome to the Family Business: Fiona VanOsdol guest-hosts (Episode 1093) 11/28/2025

Welcome to the Family Business: Fiona VanOsdol guest-hosts (Episode 1093) As I continue to recover from a variety of appendix-related issues, I’m turning to capable and talented guest hosts to keep Car Con Carne running. This episode offers something a little bit different: It features the podcast-hosting debut of my daughter, Fiona VanOsdol. Joining her are her college friends Faith Ferry and Fionn Riley, co-hosts of her college radio show called “The F Word” (their names all start with “F,” and they talk about topics that start with “F”). Their topic for this episode is “food,” which pretty much drives home the fact that Fiona’s my daughter. Among the food-related topics discussed: * Dining hall food, and its potential health risks. * Thanksgiving foods - tater tots on green bean casserole is a thing? * Fiona’s second attempt at constructing a Jell-O dessert. * Favorite restaurants - let’s have more buffets (or not)! Also, what’s the best thing to order from Panda Express? Chili’s? * Fiona shares a dark sandwich moment from our shared history (she calls it “James lore”). Thanks for supporting Car Con Carne, especially during this weird period where I’m off the grid. Thank you for listening and watching - I had an especially fun time handing the show over to Fiona. ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: If you’re looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space, Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions that are tailored to your lifestyle. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Bands, brands, listeners who want to get the word out: Exploding House Printing can help with your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. Exploding House delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or just email info@explodinghouseprinting.com to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/39195685

Guest Host Evan J. Thomas welcomes Chicago rockers Now It’s Dark (Episode 1092) 11/26/2025

Guest hosts Bellhead talk Killing Joke’s ‘Extremities’ with Martin Atkins (Episode 1091) 11/18/2025

Guest hosts Bellhead talk Killing Joke’s ‘Extremities’ with Martin Atkins (Episode 1091) As I continue to recover (and prepare for a couple of procedures and impending surgery) from appendix issues, I’ve excitedly turned Car Con Carne over to guest hosts. For this episode, Karen and Ivan from the Chicago bass duo Bellhead steal the keys to the car while I recover. Their guest is a post-punk legend, entrepreneur, author, and museum founder: the infamous Martin Atkins (Pigface, NIN, PiL). They recorded at Martin’s Museum of Post Punk and Industrial Music (natch) and discuss (among other things): *Martin’s decision to perform Killing Joke’s “Extremities” in its entirety for the first time in 33 years at Reggies Rock Room on November 28th and 29th *The cast of characters invited to take on this endeavor *Martin’s early days with Killing Joke, including how some of the “Extremities” songs came to life. *The creation of PPIM and updates, and why you should come visit. Thanks for supporting Car Con Carne, especially during this weird period where I’m off the grid. Please support my guest hosts and their guests (go to Reggie’s or watch the live stream Thanksgiving weekend)! Thank you for listening and watching. -JVO ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: If you’re looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space, Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions that are tailored to your lifestyle. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Bands, brands, listeners who want to get the word out: Exploding House Printing can help with your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. Exploding House delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or just email to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/39071845

Guest host Kevin Kellam talks about the 90s with author Greg Prato (Episode 1090) 11/17/2025

Guest host Kevin Kellam talks about the 90s with author Greg Prato (Episode 1090) Hello from James VanOsdol. As I type this, I’m recovering from appendix-related issues and preparing for an appendectomy just before Christmas. I’m counting it as a holiday gift. Bottom line: I’m not able to get out and record the podcast in-person or at my usual pace at the moment. When I first announced that I had been hospitalized (twice!) for a perforated appendix, I had a few kind friends offer to step in and guest host Car Con Carne in my expected absence. The first person to suggest the idea is friend and former radio colleague Kevin Kellam (Q101). I told him to go nuts and do whatever he wanted, and he killed it. For this episode, he interviews author/rock journalist Greg Prato, whose work has been seen in major publications like Rolling Stone and Classic Rock. He’s also the author of dozens (!) of books, including the focus of this conversation, Alternative for the Masses: The '90s Alt-Rock Revolution - An Oral History. Greg knows his stuff, and if you have any interest in the 90s (I mean, who doesn’t ?), you’re going to love this chat with Greg and Kevin. Thanks for supporting Car Con Carne, especially during this weird period where I’m off the grid. Please support the podcast’s guest hosts (listen to Kevin on Q101; buy Greg’s books)! Thank you for listening and watching. -JVO ## Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: If you’re looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space, Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions that are tailored to your lifestyle. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Bands, brands, listeners who want to get the word out: Exploding House Printing can help with your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. Exploding House delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or just email to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/39055800

Folk-punk troubadour Sam Russo takes huge leap forward on ‘Hold You Hard’ (Episode 1089) 10/18/2025

Folk-punk troubadour Sam Russo takes huge leap forward on ‘Hold You Hard’ (Episode 1089) Sam Russo put out his fourth album (“Hold You Hard”) a few months ago and is currently touring the states in a run-up to the Fest in Gainesville later this month. The new album was written across America, and feels like the result of travels that were well, if not thoughtfully, spent. Sam jumped in my car in front of GMan to talk about the new album, video-making, songwriting, and a shared love for horror films. As I mentioned in a recent social post, Sam is one of the most genuine, authentic souls I've come across in my decades of interviewing musicians. He speaks, writes, and performs with unflinching sincerity and rawness … his new album is a wonderful leap forward for him as an artist - highly recommended. Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered. Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House can help with all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. They’re a truly local Chicago business, right in the Hermosa neighborhood. And their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and so many others (check out to see the list). Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or email to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/38627535

From the Kinetic Playground to the Park West: The 55+ year journey of Chicago legends the Flock (Episode 1088) 10/14/2025

From the Kinetic Playground to the Park West: The 55+ year journey of Chicago legends the Flock (Episode 1088) The Flock was making noise on a national level starting back during the Nixon administration. They were unorthodox for the time: Jazz. Prog. Rock. Fusion. A little bit of everything, all masterfully played by the individual band members. They put out a few major label albums in their prime (Columbia, Mercury) … then, just as quickly as they came onto the scene, they faded away. Fast forward to the present: The Flock had a reunion show at Ravinia in 2024, and will return next month for a headlining show at Park West on Saturday, November 1st. Jerry Smith (bass/vocals) from the Flock joins me on the northwest side for this episode to talk about the band’s remarkable history (your jaw will drop at how many legendary bands they shared stages and experiences with) and what the present day vision is for Park West and beyond. This chat is true Chicago (and classic rock) history, told by a guy who’s seen and done it all. I think you’re really going to appreciate it. Hope to see you at Park West on 11/1! ## Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered. Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House can help with all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. They’re a truly local Chicago business, right in the Hermosa neighborhood. And their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and so many others (check out to see the list). Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or email to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/38584260

Are the Volo Antique Malls haunted? (Episode 1087) 10/12/2025

Are the Volo Antique Malls haunted? (Episode 1087) This episode finds me at the fabulous Volo Antique Malls, where I can easily lose myself for hours at a time. Owners/managers Keith and Lisa Santiago sat down with me about collectibles and antique culture, as well as the fact that their buildings are “haunted.” Seemed like the perfect time of year to dig into the latter, as paranormal tours of the facilities are being conducted along with the Volo Auto Museum. Lisa and Keith were a pleasure to talk to. And yes, I easily found a few things to buy before I left the area completely. Visit the Volo Antique Malls, which in their words, “aren't your stuffy grandma’s mall; we are your cool grandma’s mall.” 27640 Volo Village Rd. Volo, Illinois 60073 Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered. Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House can help with all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. They’re a truly local Chicago business, right in the Hermosa neighborhood. And their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and so many others (check out to see the list). Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or email to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/38556855

wht.rbbt.obj delivers fuzzed-out, torchy & sexy new album, ‘Oscar Bravo Juliett’ (Episode 1086) 10/09/2025

wht.rbbt.obj delivers fuzzed-out, torchy & sexy new album, ‘Oscar Bravo Juliett’ (Episode 1086) Frank and River of wht.rbbt.obj are back to talk about their excellent new album, “Oscar Bravo Juliett.” As I mention early in this episode, the new album is a collection of songs that are alternatingly (sometimes all at once) fuzzed out, torchy, sexy, and searing. We met at Charlie Beinlich’s in Northbrook for burgers (and a tuna salad sandwich) - thanks to the team there for the unexpected curbside service! See wht.rbbt.obj this month at the below dates, and listen to the album when it releases on 10/17! Oct 11 Rockford, IL Oct 17 Indianapolis, IN Oct 31 Long Grove, IL Car Con Carne is sponsored by Easy Automation: Looking to transform your home, office, or business into a smart, seamlessly connected space? Easy Automation delivers custom automation solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re upgrading your home entertainment, streamlining your office tech, or enhancing the atmosphere in your restaurant or sports bar, they’ve got you covered. Their expert team designs and installs personalized systems—from smart lighting and climate control to audio/video distribution and robust Wi-Fi networks—all managed through an intuitive app on your favorite device. Easy Automation makes technology work for you—effortlessly, reliably, and always with your satisfaction guaranteed. Visit easy-automation.net or call Dan at 630-730-3728 and take control of your environment today! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Exploding House Printing. Exploding House can help with all of your screen printing, embroidery and other merch needs. They’re a truly local Chicago business, right in the Hermosa neighborhood. And their focus is on small businesses, bands, brands, and everything in between. They’ve worked on products for Meat Wave, Empty Bottle, the Music Box, Dante’s Pizzeria, the Brokedowns, and so many others (check out to see the list). Jonathan at Exploding House has been doing screen printing for decades. He knows what he’s doing - besides his technical expertise, he delivers production efficiency and cost awareness to offer boutique print shop quality at much lower, large print shop prices. Check out their work on Instagram at (at)explodinghouse, or go to their website or email to get a quote! /episode/index/show/carconcarnepodcast/id/38520755

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