Car Con Carne

This year-end retrospective 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. With the year winding down, we’re taking a look back on some of 2023’s highlights, including your “top ten” interviews (as voted in a recent online survey). Literally every interview from the past year is mentioned in this episode, and the clips are memorable, fun and engaging. If you’re new to Car Con Carne … welcome! This is a great place to start. If you’ve been with the podcast for a little bit or long time, thank you for your support. Hope you like this episode. -James VanOsdol December, 2023

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 Claudettes return for a Chicago show at Old Town School of Folk Music on Saturday, December 9. See the band that the Minneapolis Star-Tribune described as “A skewed cabaret band of blues, jazz and rockabilly…a sensibility that feels equal parts James Dean and David Lynch.” Buy tickets here: https://www.oldtownschool.org/events/event.php?event_id=8969">https://www.oldtownschool.org/events/event.php?event_id=8969 Johnny Iguana of the Claudettes joins me for this episode. Besides being a founder of the band, he’s also a Blues Music Award nominee, Living Blues Award Nominee, and the co-composer of the score for the first two seasons of FX’s hit show “The Bear.” We talk over Italian Beefs (trying to honor season one of “The Bear”) and get into the band’s unique sound, the creative process, and Johnny’s early career playing piano in Junior Wells’ band. This is a fun one… give it a view/listen, then see the band on Saturday 12/9!

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. It’s been decades … literal decades … since Woolworthy was an active band. Now, in 2023, they’ve returned with the guitar-driven power pop album, “Electric Heartbreak.” The release is less a return to form and more a continuation of all that’s come before. Joining me for this chat, sometimes at different times, are: Rudy Gonzalez - vocals/guitar Rick Uncapher - bass Mark Doyle - drums Dave Suh - lead guitar/vocals We talk about our history, dating back to my Q101 “Local 101” days, the band’s decision to pause and later return, and other names the band could have had.

Capital Soiree headlines Subterranean on Black Friday (11/24/23). It’s one of the best deals you’ll find: Capital Soiree, Violet Crime, Pink Squeeze and Teen Blush for a reasonable $15. James Kourafas and Dean Sinclair from the band joined me to talk about the show, the band’s evolution and their excellent 2023 releases (including the recent single, “Kerosene”). Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Support Alex at alexrossart.com, and be sure to follow his YouTube page!

Mars Williams, the incredibly talented saxophonist best known for his work with Liquid Soul and Psychedelic Furs, was diagnosed with ampullary cancer just under a year ago. The cancer is awful, brutal and unforgiving, and his friends and collaborators are rallying behind him. Music for Mars is a benefit happening 11/25 at Metro, featuring Liquid Soul members, Jesse De La Pena, members of Psychedelic Furs, Jeff Coffin of DMB, Richard Fortus of Guns N’ Roses and Ike Reilly. Ike Reilly joined me to talk about the event, and the impact of Mars’ music and personality. Mars Williams is a tremendous talent, and Ike drives the point home with stories and memories. We also talk about Ike’s upcoming dates (including 12/22 at Lincoln Hall in Chicago), and Ike breaks the news about the forthcoming vinyl release of his breakthrough “Salesmen and Racists” album! ## Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Support Alex at alexrossart.com, and be sure to follow his YouTube page!

Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Support Alex at alexrossart.com, and be sure to follow his YouTube page! Blind Adam and the Federal League returns to the podcast on the heels of the release of the band’s third album, “The Fields We Know.” We met at Dante’s Pizzeria (3028 W. Armitage), and talked about the new release, activism, the upcoming tour with Bouncing Souls, and where Coldplay fits into all this. The band also played a spectacular acoustic version of “Before It Gets Better” in the car after we finished the interview! Support the band at https://www.blindadamandthefederalleague.com/

Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Support Alex’s YouTube page at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTPXeCUinfh6RDdmcn1co9g Robert Fleischman’s career has been fascinating. Most famously, he was brought in to be Journey’s lead singer as work started on the “Infinity” album. He was only in the band for five months, before he was replaced by Steve Perry, but he left an indelible mark on the band, co-writing songs like ‘Wheel in the Sky” and “Anytime.” Robert also was the frontman for the Vinnie Vincent Invasion in the 80s, after Vincent left KISS. And in the early days, Robert was in talks to join bands like (no kidding) ASIA and Genesis. These days, Robert is an accomplished artist with regular gallery shows. He’s also readying his first music release in a long time: “Emotional Atlas.” We cover it all in this episode, fueled by the amazing food of Bistro Monadnock (325 S. Federal). Their menu is fantastic, and the restaurant’s vibe is perfect for after work food and drink, date night or dining out with a group of friends. Robert and I both went with the Bistro Burger (brioche, steak, butter, dijonnaise, red onion relish, gruyere, vargo bros pickle). It was absolutely perfect.

Welcome to Episode 900, presented by Alex Ross Art. For this landmark moment, I hosted a roundtable of friends at Epic Deli (2616 Schaid Ct, McHenry, IL): Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer, Josh Caterer of Smoking Popes, Daryl Wilson of the Bollweevils and Tom Higgenson of Plain White Ts. As we eat each others’ signature sandwiches (an idea that came from Josh Caterer), we talk at length about food and music. No questions or topics were prepared for this episode… this is simply an honest, authentic chat with some of Chicago's most revered music makers. Thanks to Tom, Daryl, Josh and Deanna for joining me. Thanks also to Tyler and the team at Epic Deli for the hospitality. Video footage captured, edited and produced by Zach Spangler. His production work made this episode one million times better. ## Visit Alex Ross on YouTube to keep up to date with one of the comics industry's most important and celebrated creators. ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by Loud Pizza Records. Meet the Plain White Ts at Loud Pizza on 11/19/23 at 2pm! Loud Pizza is located in Chicago's northern suburbs in Downtown Highland Park and is a pizza-themed record store. Each LP is a slice ready for take out. If you dig the 80s post punk, alternative music, punk rock, indie rock or even emo... then check out Loud Pizza Records. Always fresh and always loud at www.LoudPizza.com

Just as Chicago indie band Chicken Happen gets ready to release its fourth full-length (IV), Lilly Choi jumps in my car for hot dogs and a chat about the band and the new album. IV releases on 11/10. Make a point of seeing the band at SubT for the record release show! Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Subscribe to Alex’s YouTube channel, and visit his website at alexrossart.com!

With Halloween fast approaching, I made a visit to the Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb (135 North Second Street) to interview directors/cast members of the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” “shadow cast.” I’m joined by Elliot Lubicz, Josh Chesser, and returning favorite Birdy Vee (of Chicago punk band Sweetie). We talk about why “Rocky Horror” continues to endure, the fans, the music and what it’s like to be a “virgin.” This is a fun one… be sure to keep an eye out for future performances of “Rocky Horror” at the Egyptian! Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Subscribe to Alex’s YouTube channel, and visit his website at alexrossart.com! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine: When you’re in a world-class music city like Chicago, there’s so much happening that it can be almost overwhelming—that’s where In the Loop Magazine comes in. For show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more, visit beintheloopchicago.com

All October long, Car Con Carne is featuring Halloween-related interviews and locations. This episode finds me back at 13th Floor Haunted House (5050 River Road, Schiller Park). Joining me for a trip through the haunt is returning guest Patrick Brower, co-owner of Challengers Comics + Conversation (1845 N. Western, Chicago). Patrick and I talk about our trip through 13th Floor before digging into the state of comics retail, comic conventions and the joy of Mego action figures. Challengers Comics is now celebrating its 15th year serving Chicago comics fans! 13th Floor is open October 24-Halloween night, and then again November 3-5. Find out more and buy tickets at 13thfloorchicago.com. Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Subscribe to Alex’s YouTube channel, and visit his website at alexrossart.com! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine: When you’re in a world-class music city like Chicago, there’s so much happening that it can be almost overwhelming—that’s where In the Loop Magazine comes in. For show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more, visit beintheloopchicago.com

Get ready for a live event unlike anything else happening in Chicago this season: Sideshow Villains’ Deviant Cabaret is happening at Alhambra Palace (1240 W. Randolph) on Sunday, October 22. Described as “a mix of dance, circus, and cabaret acts designed to disturb and delight,” the show will feature Sideshow Villains as well as aerialists, a juggler, trapeze artist, dancers, aerial rope artist, and performance artist Spitfire. This is going to be insane, and insanely awesome. Joining me to talk about the event are Dante and Greg of Sideshow Villains. We also talk about their recent release, “Claws for Breakfast,” which features “seven songs centered around various criminalities.” Thanks to Alhambra Palace for providing food for this episode! Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Subscribe to Alex’s YouTube channel, and visit his website at alexrossart.com! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine: When you’re in a world-class music city like Chicago, there’s so much happening that it can be almost overwhelming—that’s where In the Loop Magazine comes in. For show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more, visit beintheloopchicago.com

Plus-sized Kiss tribute band Phat Kiss plays Livewire (3394 N. Milwaukee) Halloween night. Half the band joined me at Cobra Lounge to talk about the show, and everything relating to Kiss. Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Subscribe to Alex’s YouTube channel, and visit his website at alexrossart.com! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine: When you’re a world-class music city like Chicago, there’s so much happening that it can be almost overwhelming—that’s where In the Loop Magazine comes in. For show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more, visit beintheloopchicago.com

Cinephile/Giallo expert Stephanie Sack returns to Car Con Carne to talk about some Giallo events happening in Chicago during this Halloween season. The centerpiece of that list is a special appearance by “Suspiria” actress Barbara Magnolfi at Chicago’s horror-themed cafe, the Brewed. Ms. Magnolfi will be there on October 14 from noon to 5pm for selfies, autographs and more. We also talk about Claudio Simonetti & GOBLIN performing the score to Argento’s “Demons” on Sunday, October 15 and a very special private screening with Barbara Magnolfi happening earlier that day. This episode was recorded directly outside Red Lion Pub (2446 Lincoln Avenue), one of Chicago’s many alleged “haunted” locations. Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Make sure to visit Alex’s booth at the New York Comic Con (October 12-15, 2023)! ## Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine: When you’re a world-class music city like Chicago, there’s so much happening that it can be almost overwhelming—that’s where In the Loop Magazine comes in. For show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more, visit beintheloopchicago.com

Every year, Halloween fans scramble to find the perfect masks and costumes to represent themselves through Spooky Season. For decades, a local mask maker has been there for them. Zagone Studios in Melrose Park has been making handmade (!) masks since the mid-70s. Their business continues to grow and thrive, thanks to an innovative and creative spirit, as well as a community that actively supports the products. I visited Zagone on a Saturday morning at the peak of Halloween season and talked with co-owner Franco Pacini and Jenelle Wittmann, VP, Sales/Marketing. Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Make sure to visit Alex’s booth at the New York Comic Con (October 12-15, 2023)! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine: When you’re a world-class music city like Chicago, there’s so much happening that it can be almost overwhelming—that’s where In the Loop Magazine comes in. For show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more, visit beintheloopchicago.com

Let me just get this out of the way: The annual opening of HellsGate is one of my most anticipated events of the year. The immersive, engaging haunt is world class, and I leave there smiling and giddy every year. For this episode, I brought longtime friend/colleague Tim Virgin (94.7 WLS, Q101, WLUP, etc.) to experience HellsGate with me. After our journey, we were joined in the car by HellsGate founder/owner John LaFlamboy. Tim and I share our thoughts and favorite moments from our visit, and John puts everything in context. We dig into the finer details of operating HellsGate, as well as the creative spirit that guides it. HellsGate provides one of the most entertaining, memorable experiences you’ll have this year. Make a point of getting there before it gets swallowed back into hell in November. Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Make sure to visit Alex’s booth at the New York Comic Con (October 12-15, 2023)! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine: When you’re a world-class music city like Chicago, there’s so much happening that it can be almost overwhelming—that’s where In the Loop Magazine comes in. For show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more, visit beintheloopchicago.com

Juiceboxxx is no more. Enter Rustbelt. John Chiaverina has moved on from his well-known stage name and is now focused on Rustbelt. Today’s Snack is the title track of his forthcoming 4-song EP (out 1/19/24), “You Got Nowhere to Go But You’re Going There Tonight.” The lyrics address “the absurdity of aiming for greatness as well as the beauty of trying anyway.” I feel like we can all relate in some way.

The Horror House (2911 W. Belmont) has been open for just over a year, and has quickly established itself as an essential part of Chicago’s pop culture landscape. As Halloween approaches, I sat down with Horror House co-owner Vinny Malave to talk about business over the past year, the horror community, the highs and lows of small business ownership, the shop’s Riot Fest presence, the Avondale neighborhood, Fanny DeVito and upcoming store events. Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Alex Ross has a YouTube channel you should subscribe to (@thealexrossart)! Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine. In The Loop loves music just as much as you do, and when it comes to live music in Chicago, they’ve got you covered with show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more. Visit and bookmark In the Loop Magazine at beintheloopchicago.com.

I’m joined by members of monster band the Ooozin’ Ahhhs for this Halloween/Candy Corn Carne episode. Maximilian, Mx. Supreme, Boris and Icfos packed their scary selves into my car to talk about their origins in Romania, the rich history of monster music and some of their upcoming events. While this is available as an audio episode, this one really works best as a visual showcase. Definitely check it out on YouTube or Facebook! Car Con Carne is presented by Alex Ross Art. Check out Alex’s YouTube page, and be sure to subscribe. Car Con Carne is also sponsored by In the Loop Magazine. In The Loop loves music just as much as you do, and when it comes to live music in Chicago, they’ve got you covered with show recaps, tour previews, interviews, photo galleries, and more. Visit and bookmark In the Loop Magazine at beintheloopchicago.com.

This Snack comes courtesy of Chicago singer/songwriter Ron Lazzeretti. The song is “Count Down By Threes,” from his upcoming album “Fat Head, Sunday Paper,” which comes out Friday the 29th. He’ll follow that up with a free show at Fitzgerald's Sidebar on Sat, Sept 30 at 8:30PM.