604 Records Presents: Verses

What was it like building a band in Western Canada before streaming, before social media, and before anyone outside your city knew your name? In this episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with 64 Funnycars, one of Victoria's underground power-pop bands from the late 80s, to talk about the realities of building a music career in Canada during a completely different era. They share stories about: Recording a full album in just 36 hours Touring Western Canada with almost no infrastructure Playing legendary venues like Harpo's Campus radio shaping the success of indie bands The chaos of booking DIY tours before the internet Why some bands chose not to chase fame And much more! This episode is available in video form on YouTube. If you enjoy local music conversation - hit subscribe! Thanks for watching.

Kelsey Hamilton sits down with Kevvy Maher who directed her debut comedy special to talk through it as well as a whole bunch of other nonsense. We learn why a lime scooter, then a blooper reel was the only thing that mattered for the special, her mother's obsession with Nate Go Wild the mysterious animal videographer, and why she has the best teeth in the game. Likes/comments/shares help us out big time so please do! The podcast is also available in audio form wherever you get them. Subscribe for more musician/comedian interviews from 604 Records/Light Organ Records/Comedy Here Often.

Sister bands Fionn and Vox Rea join the podcast to talk about growing up in the Vancouver music scene, busking at Granville Island as teenagers, and how the some of the weird experiences there shaped their careers. Topics include: Busking at Granville Island Pressure around age in the music industry The value of long-term artistic pursuits Why the Vancouver music scene is slowly becoming cool How a heckle can completely derail you & much more! 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms or watch on YouTube 📺 Subscribe for more artist interviews and industry stories and please leave a rating/comment they help us out big time!

In this special episode of Verses, Jonathan Simkin sits down with Payton Adler — frontman of Floorplan — to discuss their debut self-titled EP, creative struggles, and building a loyal fanbase. Payton opens up about writing from personal lows, performing with emotional intensity, and what it means to release music through 604 Records. This episode connects to the upcoming film Sweetness, with actor Herman Tømmeraas appearing in character. Topics include: – Floorplan's new EP (out March 6) – The single "Payback" – Writing about anxiety and relationships – Fan culture and touring – Influences like My Chemical Romance – Performing as emotional release 🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms 📌 Like, comment, share, and save #VersesPodcast #604Records #SweetnessFilm #IndieRock #MusicInterview #NewMusic #CanadianMusic #FilmMusic

Nick and Ally from Sleepy Gonzales join their project manager Joseph for a candid conversation about their new music, creative process, and wildest band stories. They open up about getting in trouble for their "murdery" music videos, Nick's passion for low-level pro wrestling, and how touring shaped their perspective on collaboration and authenticity. From songwriting dynamics to the evolution of their sound, this episode offers a raw and funny look inside one of Vancouver's most original indie acts. If you love honest music talk, creative chaos, and behind-the-scenes insights from Canadian artists — hit play. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:29 The Completely Random Formation of the Band 07:10 Pro Wrestling Dreams Distracting from the Music 09:47 Why Touring is the Best Experience of their Life 13:55 The New Variation in their Sound 20:09 Visual Storytelling & 'Murdery' Music Videos 25:14 Themes and Messages in Their Music

Canadian pop duo Fionn (Alanna & Brianne) join Kevvy Maher (Fake Shark, 604 Records) on Verses to reveal the stories behind their viral single "Blow" and fan favorite "Banshee." They break down their unique 15-minute songwriting rule, share behind-the-scenes moments from recording Everyone's a Critic, and talk about the thrill of hearing their music on Vancouver radio. The trio also dish on prepping for Fionn's first U.S. tour, road-trip mishaps, and what it takes to succeed in today's Canadian indie pop scene. Perfect for fans of indie pop, songwriting podcasts, and anyone curious about the modern music industry. The full episode is also available in video on Youtube!

Jonathan Simkin of 604 Records sits down with country artist Mitch Zorn to talk about the booming Kelowna music scene, the excitement of signing to a label, and how radio, streaming & viral moments impact artists today. Mitch shares thoughts on his new EP, staying authentic in the digital age, and why AI should enhance—not replace—creativity In this episode they explore: Kelowna's vibrant music scene The emotional ride of signing a record deal How streaming and radio shape artist careers today The thrill (and reality) of viral moments Mitch's new EP & upcoming tour plans The weirdness of AI in music right now 🤖 Reflections on live shows, memorable moments & big dreams Subscribe for more behind the scenes interviews with Canada's emerging artists.

The Armchair Cynics sit down with Jonathan to revisit a wild chapter of Canadian alt-rock: the Killing the Romance era, the story behind "Coal Mine," why "Starting Today" still hits, and the hard drive discovery that unearthed unreleased demos. They break down recording with Dave Genn, sessions with Chad Kroeger & Joey Moi at Mountain View, mixes by Mike Fraser, and why the band passed on a Theory of a Deadman tour. They also dive into AI video upscaling (restoring "A Blaze," "Coal Mine," and "Bang" from old MuchMusic sources), Victoria, BC music scene of the 2000s, and reuniting at 604's studio on the legendary Little Mountain Sound console. Plus: life after the band—production, coral farming (Beyond the Reef), and an AC/DC cover band—then back together to record again. 🎧 Listen to Verses on all audio platforms. 📺 Watch the newly upscaled videos soon and follow for 604 Decades releases. Timestamps: 0:12 - Intro 1:38 - How it went for the Armchair Cynics 4:28 - How 604 discovered the band (the Victoria connection) 10:35 - AI upscaling + MuchMusic archives: restoring "A Blaze," "Coal Mine," "Bang" 20:28 - The timing in their lives for committing to music 23:35 - Working with Dave Genn, Chad Kroeger & Joey Moi (Mountain View) Mixes by Mike Fraser; studio gear & Little Mountain console 27:28 - Saying no to a Theory of a Deadman tour—what changed 28:47 - Why the island is a weird place 30:22 - Life after the band 36:54 - Reuniting at 604, vinyl ideas & the 604 Decades plan

Jonathan Simkin sits down with Dave Benedict (Default) and Brett & Nolan from The Vidos to talk new music, their upcoming tour, and the lessons learned from years in the music industry. From high school band days to navigating record labels, the conversation covers authenticity in songwriting, the urgency of career goals, and the bonds that keep musicians going. Plus—stories about hockey, unexpected inspirations, and why long-lasting industry friendships are rare treasures. #TheVidos #DaveBenedict #VersesPodcast #DefaultBand #CanadianMusic #RockMusic #MusicPodcast #TourLife #Songwriting #BehindTheScenesMusic

Chevy Beaulieu joins 604 Records President Jonathan Simkin on Verses to discuss his journey as a Métis and First Nations country artist. From his musical roots to his challenges balancing a day job and a rising music career, Chevy's path is one of resilience. Learn about his songwriting process, the importance of mental health, and his aspirations for the future. Don't miss this deep dive into the life of a rising star in the country music scene. Like what you heard? Let us know! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604 Chapters 03:08 Cultural Heritage and Family Background 06:05 Musical Roots and Early Influences 09:02 The Journey to 604 Records 11:57 Showcase Experience and Performance Insights 14:52 Record Label Experience and Charting Success 17:46 Songwriting Process and Authenticity in Music 21:09 Balancing Music Career and Day Job 24:04 Mental Health and Songwriting as Expression 26:31 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Juno Week

Join guest host Wendy Boomer as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Mitch Zorn as he takes us through his journey into country music. From his first gig performing alongside his dad to crafting authentic lyrics that resonate, Mitch shares how his musical upbringing and solo songwriting process shape his artistry. Hear about his transformative experiences in Nashville, the unique inspirations behind his songs, and the excitement for his upcoming album and tour. 🚨 Don't miss this chance to get an exclusive look at Mitch's creative process and his mission to headline venues he once played as an opener. Whether you're a country music fan or a songwriting enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights and stories that'll leave you inspired. Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry! Like what you heard? Let us know! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

In this episode of Verses, Alanna and Brianne of Fionn open up about their first headlining tour across Canada, sharing stories from the road, from driving in unpredictable weather to fueling up on Tim Hortons. The sisters dive into the joys of connecting with new fans, unexpected support at their shows, and what it's like performing live on Breakfast Television after only a few hours of sleep. They also reveal how their twin bond gives them a unique edge, from "twin telepathy" on stage to sharing unspoken thoughts, even when they're apart. But it's not all smooth sailing—being so close can lead to friction. Hear how they balance the fun, the chaos, and the deep connection that drives their music career. Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full video episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604

In this episode, Kevvy & Grant share their personal experiences from a years of international performances, exploring the exhilaration of live shows and the reality of being on the road. The chat is full of stories of their early days in a performing arts high school to current successes in music and comedy, and. Join us for a heartfelt discussion about the beauty of following your passion and the surreal moments that come with it! 🎧 Listen to the full episode now and don't forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes looks at the music industry! Like what you heard? Let us know below! Remember 🤞 to like & subscribe! Find full audio episodes and everything else HERE: https://ffm.bio/verses604