Chili-infused Malort at Noon Whistle Brewing in Lombard
Posted in Episodes Lombard Malort spirits

Noon Whistle: ‘Who wants chili-infused Malort?’ Everyone: ___ (Episode 1085)

I’m back at Noon Whistle’s Lombard Brewpub (800 E. Roosevelt) for this one. They’ve pulled me back with yet another mad scientist idea. I’ve had cicada-infused Malort there. I choked down Garlic Butterlort, still an all-time low taste experience. And…

At Hellsgate Haunted House with Chicago band clubdrugs
Posted in Episodes Halloween haunted house

HellsGate Haunted House with clubdrugs (Episode 1084)

It’s my favorite time of year – I’m back at Hellsgate Haunted House in Lockport to see what’s new at the haunt and meet up with creator/owner John LaFlamboy. Joining me for the trip this year are two of my…

The Ooozin' Ahhhs welcome Halloween on Car Con Carne
Posted in Berwyn Episodes Halloween

The Ooozin’ Ahhhs have emerged from their hellholes and crypts (Episode 1083)

In what’s accidentally become an annual tradition, I’m joined by America’s favorite monster band, the Oooozin’ Ahhhs. We met at the wonderful Cigars and Stripes (6715 Ogden Ave Berwyn, IL 60402 // stripesbbq.com) for the episode, and recorded at the…

John from Bass Drum of Death
Posted in Episodes

Bass Drum of Death at Beat Kitchen (Episode 1082)

Bass Drum of Death was back in Chicago on 9/24/25 for a show at Beat Kitchen, and I sat down with John Barrett (singer/multi-instrumentalist) shortly before he took the stage. We talked about: *Chicago, and the band’s “Live and Let…

Jake from Jacob on the Moon
Posted in Episodes Nu Yacht Yacht Rock

Are you ready for Nü-yacht music? – Jacob on the Moon (Episode 1081)

Indie-soul band, Jacob on the Moon, recently released their new EP, “The Gemini Club,” and it’s absolutely excellent. Band mastermind, Jake Dineen, joins to talk about the EPs concept and the band’s infectious, unique sound (Nü-yacht?). Keep an eye out…

Dave Trumfio of the Pulsars
Posted in Episodes post punk synth pop Wisconsin

The Pulsars return! (Episode 1080)

“This is a very nice day, yeah. Hugs and kisses all the way to Wisconsin” Not to bury the lead: synthy, new wavey, indie rock favorites, the Pulsars are back and moving forward. Full disclosure: I love this band and…

Troubled Hubble on Car Con Carne
Posted in Episodes Wisconsin

Troubled Hubble at Bay View Bash (Episode 1079)

Troubled Hubble is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its wonderful “Making Beds in a Burning House” album, and the band joined me in the car before their (long-rain delayed) set at Bay View Bash in Milwaukee! Car Con Carne is…

Devon Kay on Car Con Carne
Posted in Episodes Wisconsin

Devon Kay at Bay View Bash (Episode 1078)

I’m joined for this episode by “one of Chicago, Illinois’ biggest crybabies,” Devon Kay. Devon’s a favorite of mine, and it was fun to connect before the band’s (weather abbreviated) set at the Bay View Bash in Milwaukee. We talked…

Andy Bagwell, Frances Mai-Ling, and Mike Felumlee talk about pinball on Car Con Carne
Posted in Episodes pinball

The pinball episode! (Episode 1077)

Warning: This episode will make you want to play more pinball. This episode was recorded outside the perfectly-curated pinball cafe, Pin Grounds (31 W. Irving Park Rd., Roselle, IL). Thanks to Art for his hospitality, and for opening up on…

Kid Congo Powers on Car Con Carne
Posted in Episodes

Iconic guitarist Kid Congo Powers (Cramps, Nick Cave, Gun Club) talks storied career (Episode 1076)

Kid Congo Powers is an iconic punk guitarist, wildly inventive solo artist, author, and storyteller. His resume includes legendary runs playing guitar in Gun Club, the Cramps and Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. He’s also been doing his own…