Posted in Episodes Local 101 pop punk

Pop-punk vets go power-pop: Hot Alice (Episode 917)

This episode was recorded outside Doctor Dogs in Roselle (Note: do not trust Doctor Dogs in the event of a medical emergency; please contact an actual doctor if you need immediate help). I’m joined by ¾ of Hot Alice: Chris…

Posted in cinema Episodes Giallo

Looking for non-mainstream movies in January? Cinephile Stephanie Sack has recommendations (Episode 916)

Burnt out on the same menu of Wonka/Aquaman/etc. currently playing at the local cineplex? Returning guest and known cinephile Stephanie Sack highlights non-traditional January options, specifically focused on the Music Box Theatre’s “Giallo January”: January 1 — House of Psychotic…

Posted in breweries Episodes

Wrong War at BuckleDown Brewing (Episode 915)

Pat Keenan from the band Wrong War and Ike Orcutt, Head Brewer/Owner of BuckleDown Brewing, jumped in my car for a fun chat focused on music and beer (naturally). See Wrong War at BuckleDown (8700 47th St. Lyons, IL 60534)…

Posted in Avondale Episodes

‘I Don’t Wanna Go Fest’ curated by Speed Babes (Episode 914)

Speed Babes are celebrating their ninth anniversary as a band by curating the upcoming “I Don’t Wanna Go Fest” at Reed’s Local (1/4/24-1/7/24). The four nights are stacked, including sets from: Daarling / Heet Deth / Watermelon / Precocious Neophyte…

Posted in Episodes punk rock Punk Rock Tacos

The Usuals rev up for new music in 2024 (Episode 913)

I got caught up with the Usuals before their Punk Rock Tacos performance in December, 2023. They talked about their new album, which is ready to go, the “Godspeed” tribute album, and “the royal weeeee.” Car Con Carne is presented…

Posted in Episodes

Night Spice and Marina City ready to headline Thalia Hall (Episode 912)

Saturday January 20 sees a fantastic double bill of independent local headliners at Thalia Hall. Marina City and Night Spice top the bill, with Muted Color and Grayson Dewolfe also performing. Joining me for this episode are Kevin Singleton of…

Posted in Episodes Punk Rock Tacos Villa Park

The Run Around at Punk Rock Tacos (Episode 911)

Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Visit Alex Ross on YouTube to keep up to date with one of the comics industry’s most important and celebrated creators. The members of the Run Around jumped in the car…

Posted in Episodes Live performances

(LIVE PERFORMANCE/INTERVIEW) Robin Taylor Zander goes ‘The Distance’ (Episode 910)

Robin Taylor Zander (Cheap Trick) joins me for this episode to talk about his debut album, “The Distance.” The album’s a welcome and familiar mix of sounds. As Zander says on the album’s back cover: “You may hear something that…

Posted in Episodes punk rock Punk Rock Tacos

The Queers (Episode 909)

Before the Queers headlined Punk Rock Tacos at Cemitas Poblanos, Joe Queer jumped in the car for an honest, unapologetic and fun interview. We talked about the benefits of being a touring band in the present day, the pros/cons of…

Posted in Announcements Awards

VOTE FOR CAR CON CARNE: “BEST OF 2023!”

Car Con Carne is nominated for “Best Music Podcast” in the Chicago Reader’s “Best of 2023” poll, and I’d love your help! You can vote by clicking through to the direct CCC entry here: If you want to copy and…