The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music

Jay Jay welcomes back 2 very special guests to the podcast - guitar legends Joe Satriani & Steve Vai!This episode is a must listen for all guitar heads. Jay Jay discusses the 2026 Twisted Sister Reunion, as Joe and Steve get into their current collaboration. They dig into why their interplay isn’t mystical so much as decades of a deep musical conversation that they began as kids. Their friendship and close listening to one another, to the more technical - tone choices, and practical staging (mono vs stereo rigs, crew wizardry), etc. They talk gear, dynamics, and the telepathy that you gain after years of playing everywhere from yards & garages, to festival stages & concert halls. Jay, Joe & Steve discuss “commercial” vs “authentic” pursuits — exploring whether chasing radio hits matters, and how you can’t fake what people will like, but only write what you feel. They talk about how playing with humans matters more than all else in the current digital landscape. Joe and Steve differentiate the ways in which touring with separate bands differs from merging into one tight unit, how arrangements are made on the fly, and the inherent value of close collaboration in fast moving environments.They wrap their conversation talking about how chasing trends can ultimately be a trap, and how commercial success should be a byproduct, rather than at the forefront of one's artistry, getting into the importance of staying true and doing the work. Don't miss this insightful conversation from 3 guitar legends - only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music!Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

This week, Jay Jay is joined by his Producer Matthew Mallinger, as they discuss the world of HiFi audio & Jay Jay's new upcoming program Twisted Systems. They delve into electroacoustic engineering and how the landscape of audio production has changed, emphasizing that you don't need to break the bank to get great sound. Matthew shares his journey within art as a drummer, painter & producer - & his most meaningful influences along the way; from hearing his uncle Pat Mallinger perform in Chicago as a kid, to his current involvement in Deantoni Parks Technoself School of Philosophy. They get into myths about audio quality and discuss the importance of understanding what elements are most important as a listener. Jay & Matthew end their conversation talking about the excitement surrounding Twisted Sister's tour coming up this year, & their plans to carry on with the anticipated reunion. Don't miss this conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music!

Join us this week as we revisit a previous favorite of Jay Jay's conversations on hi-fi audio; If there are two individuals who know the world of Hi-Fi audio, it's Ken Kessler & Michael Fremer. Ken is a Hi-Fi expert journalist, who joined Hi-Fi News & Record Review in 1983, to which he still contributes. He also writes a column for the website Soundstage UK, is the author of "Quad: The Closest Approach", "McIntosh … For The Love Of Music", and co-author of "Sound Bites" and "KEF: Innovators In Sound." Michael Fremer is the editor of analogPlanet.com, and senior contributing editor at Stereophile magazine. He’s also contributed to The New York Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, Consumer Digest, and The Bergen Record (New Jersey) among other publications and periodicals. These two audio experts are long-time friends of Jay Jay's, & their conversation was so extensive that we had to split it into two parts. This is "Analog Wars: Part I" with Ken Kessler & Michael Fremer.Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

Tune into Part II of Jay Jay's conversation with Lenny Florentine, a renowned audio expert and YouTube sensation. They further explore the world of high-end audio equipment, getting into discussion about turntables and the crazy variation in prices that can come with them in modern day. Lenny candidly reflects on the absurdity of some of these prices while acknowledging that for some, these extravagant systems are akin to owning a luxury sports car. They get into the importance of understanding your listening environment, emphasizing that even in smaller rooms, one can achieve fantastic sound without breaking the bank. Lenny talks about the issue of gear acquisition syndrome, a common affliction among audiophiles, where the pursuit of the next best piece of equipment can sometimes overshadow the joy of listening to music itself. This episode isn't just about audio gear; it's about the love of music and how it connects us, making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about sound and the stories behind it. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just getting into the hobby, this conversation paired with Lenny's practical advice and passion for music will resonate with you. Don't miss this conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music! Produced and Edited by Matthew Mallinger

This week, tune in for part II of Jay Jay's conversation with distinguished writer and producer Maxim Langstaff! Max is a Grammy- and Emmy-nominated writer, producer, and author whose creative work has reached millions worldwide. Known for his innovative vision and storytelling versatility, Max has collaborated with many of the most influential figures in music and popular culture.He recently released his first novel Sasq'et, which is available in stores now. Don't miss this conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music!Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

Join us this week as Jay Jay welcomes legendary tv & radio personality Riki Rachtman! Riki is well known as a long standing host of MTVs Headbanger's Ball, and as the owner of the Hollywood nightclub the Cathouse. He joins Jay Jay at his apartment in New York to discuss all things hard rock & Heavy Metal.Riki shares some inspiring career insight as to how he made a name for himself in the music industry - sharing stories of early years of Heavy Metal and the 80's MTV era, up to his current solo touring act that he has been touring the country with, to great reception. As a luminary in the realm of rock over the years, Riki shares his experiences from his time as a club promoter to his role as a television host, shedding light on the evolution of rock culture over the decades through his incomparable lens.Don't miss this conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music!Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

This week, tune in as Jay Jay welcomes special guest & high end audio expert - Valerio Cora! The intricacies of high-end audio technology take center stage in this episode, as Jay Jay and Valerio get into the innovative advancements in audio equipment. This discussion is taking place ahead of the Axpona high-end audio show in Chicago this Spring, which they will both be taking part in. Val shares insights into the evolution of audio systems, tracing the origins of his passion for music and sound reproduction back to his teenage years. They discuss the differences between standard audio systems and high-end equipment, emphasizing how the latter can profoundly transform the way music is experienced. Exploring how advancements in technology have led to a greater appreciation in sound fidelity, these 2 provide a unique insight into the art of audio engineering and the attention to detail required in crafting superior sound systems.Don't miss this conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music! Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

This week, Jay Jay welcomes back dear friend of the podcast - legendary comedian Dean Delray. Dean joins Jay Jay fresh off the release of his new comedy special '5836,' produced by Bill Burr.They get into the intricacies of live performance, and discuss the evolving landscape of comedy today. Dean & Jay share the strong belief that when preparation meets opportunity, true magic can happen within one's life & trajectory. This leads them to relate on the idea that consistent practice and readiness can be crucial in the pursuit of success. Del Rey reflects on the years that have shaped his craft, serving as an inspiring example of the dedication & resilience that's required for one to thrive. This conversation is both a first hand glimpse into the comedy world, and an exploration of the spirit that drives true performers to continually hone their craft.Don't miss this conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music! Be sure to check out Dean's new comedy special '5836' produced by Bill Burr & available now on youtube & through Dean's website https://www.deandelray.com/Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

This week, after the news of Bob Weir, we're revisiting Jay Jay's previous conversation with guests Justin Kreutzmann & Mark Pinkus. This episode is a must listen for all Dead Heads!Justin is a director, & the son of legendary Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kreutzmann. Justin has worked on a large catalogue of projects with music legends such as Pete Townshend and The Who, Motley Crue, Yoko Ono, Sean Lennon, Emmylou Harris, Mavis Staples, & last but not least - The Grateful Dead. He has worked as an editor & producer on a wide variety of music documentaries & programs - including Long Strange Trip, Let There Be Drums, Backstage Pass & Dead Ringers: The Making of Touch of Grey.Mark Pinkus is president of Rhino Entertainment, and he is the official General Manager of Grateful Dead Properties. He has access to the Dead's extensive vault — a superfan's paradise with thousands and thousands of tapes — and handles the production and release of the music contained within.Tune in to hear these 3 discuss all things Grateful Dead - from producing their most recent documentary, to each member's unique character & style of playing, & why the Dead have had such a huge impact on multiple generations. Justin discusses how his dad being a member the Dead has impacted his life & career, & Mark discusses his special working relationship with the Dead. Jay Jay tells stories of seeing the Grateful Dead perform growing up in New York, & the impact that their musical connectedness had on his playing.Don't miss this one of a kind conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music!Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

This week, Jay Jay welcomes an old friend of his - special guest Paul McGowan of PS audio. Jay Jay recounts his first encounter with PS Audio equipment, as they get into a broader discussion about the evolution of audio technology over the years. Paul shares his journey from a young engineer to the president of a leading audio company, detailing the challenges he's faced in a market that's constantly evolving. They reflect on the impact that digital technology has had on the music landscape, discussing the rise and fall of various formats & how consumer tastes have influenced their development. Paul talks about PS Audio's dedication to service & community for audiophiles, as their conversation sheds light on both the technical aspects of sound reproduction and the culture that exists within the audio community. This episode is a must listen for audio files; don't miss their conversation - only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music! Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger 

Tune in this week for part II of Jay Jay's conversation with audio expert Adrian Low! Adrian is not only a distinguished audio expert and the owner of Audio Excellence in Canada, but also happens to be one of Jay Jay's favorite audio influencers / reviewers. They delve into the disparity between contemporary listening habits and those of previous generations & reflect on how the allure of high-fidelity systems has waned, with convenience often being prioritized over audio quality. Adrian talks about the challenges faced in rekindling interest among youth, who tend to gravitate towards earbuds and computer speakers rather than traditional stereo systems. These 2 discuss the deep value that the appreciation of hi-fi audio can bring to the listener, & how accessible hi fidelity equipment holds the ability to inspire a new era of musical engagement among younger audiences. Don't miss part 2 of their conversation, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music!Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger

Tune in this week for part two of Jay Jay's conversation with special guest Steve Guttenberg! These 2 dive straight back into the world of audio, & what it really is that makes great sound systems tick. Steve is an audio expert - with an extensive history both as a salesman and a reviewer. Steve & Jay chat about learning to appreciate sound quality through jazz music, and the importance of understanding depth, soundstage and transparency in audio. They reminisce about their wide range of experiences they've had with different audio gear – from the highs of discovering amazing speakers to the lows of dealing with equipment that just doesn't cut it. Whether you’re a music lover or just curious about audio, this episode is a must listen! Don't miss this episode, only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music!Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger 

This week, Rudy Sarzo returns for the second half of his recent conversation with Jay Jay to share more about his storied career, full of unforgettable experiences and legendary encounters over the years in the rock scene. The episode kicks off with Rudy reminiscing about the various bands he's played with, diving into some wild tour stories. Rudy reflects on the emotional impact of losing musical icons, particularly with the recent loss of his dear friend & collaborator Ozzy Osbourne. His heartfelt insight reveals a deep respect and admiration for the artists he’s worked with, & the lifelong bonds that are formed in the world of music. Don't miss this conversation - only on The Jay Jay French Connection: Beyond the Music! Produced & Edited by Matthew Mallinger