E21 Material Issue - Ted Ansani Interview

Music In My Shoes

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Strap in for a time capsule adventure, as Ted Ansani of Material Issue takes us back, on an episode thick with nostalgia. He recounts tales of how a couple of Columbia College Chicago music enthusiasts, and drummer Mike Zelenko, turned into a band that left an indelible mark on the power-pop landscape. We talk beginnings, the transition from drumsticks to bass strings, and the twists with Mercury Records. Ted's memories are a rare tour pass to the early '90s, offering an insider perspective on creating hits that outlasted their era.
Reminisce and groove with us as we explore the quirks behind the making of anthems like "Valerie Loves Me" and "Diane," tracks that continue to resonate with fans across the globe. Ted's reflections on the documentary "Out of Time: The Material Issue Story" provide an unexpected depth, while we also celebrate the joy of fans shouting back the lyrics to "Very First Lie" at shows, a testament to Material Issue's enduring connection with their audience.
Yet, the episode takes a poignant turn as we reflect on the band's struggle to navigate the grunge-dominated waters of the '90s music scene and the tragic loss of frontman Jim Ellison. The conversation highlights the resilience of Material Issue and the bittersweet moments that punctuated their journey. Through the highs of hearing their song "Renee Remains the Same" on the radio, to the lows of the industry's fickle nature, we honor the legacy of a band that, against all odds, captured the hearts of power-pop aficionados and left behind melodies that still echo in the hearts of listeners. Join us for a heartfelt tribute to Material Issue, a band that rocked hard and left us with a soundtrack for the ages.
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