Ever felt like music is just noise and not a journey? Buckle up, because today’s Z Frequency Spotlight takes us into the moody, cinematic world of Briauna, a self-taught indie dark pop artist who’s not just creating tunes; she’s crafting atmospheres. Imagine Lana Del Rey meets Danny Elfman.

In this mini episode, I explore:

- How Briauna’s raw, instinct-driven songwriting creates vulnerability that resonates deeply.

- The influences that shape her ambient, eerie storytelling, including a playlist featuring Lana Del Rey and Elfman.

- The significance of community and collaboration in the indie scene.

- Why Briauna’s new single “Lobotomy” tackles heavy themes, such as erasing memories and confronting darkness.

- Two must-listen tracks: “Skeleton Boy” and “Tired,” emphasizing the importance of mood and message.

- The power of focusing on “what I’m learning” rather than dwelling on what’s wrong.

Connect with Briauna:

- Instagram: https://instagram.com/briauna.official

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1gH1iS0bw6ulgsnvOWH1td?si=56k0BYPDSUaVn5ivOvc4SQ

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH1y7dGhv3M8HyaqvacVgAg

- Booking: https://briaunamusic.kit.com/d6f401f3f4

Most importantly, support Briauna by streaming her singles, sharing her story, and following her creative journey. Peace out!

For more, visit: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Chapters:

00:00: Introducing Brianna: The Dark Pop Artist

02:24: Exploring Brianna’s New Single ‘Lobotomy’

03:23: The Importance of Collaboration and Community

The Gilder Era is here! Indie pop artist Charlie Gilder breaks down his mindset, the "Play the Game" philosophy, and finding your sound on the ZHZ Podcast.

In this episode of the ZHZ Podcast, Zak and Matt sit down with musician and producer Charlie Gilder to dive deep into his artistic journey. We talk about the transition into "The Gilder Era," the grit required to make it as an indie pop artist today, and what it really means to "play the game" in the modern music industry. Charlie shares the stories behind his latest tracks, his creative process in the studio, and why having the right mindset is the only thing that keeps you moving forward as a creator.

Support & Follow Charlie Gilder:

Charlie is making waves in the indie pop scene—make sure you’re following the journey and streaming the latest tracks:

* Official Website & Hub: https://gilder-prod.square.site

* Listen on Spotify: Stream “ITOLDYA” and more https://open.spotify.com/track/4r6Hs2yVVzXC5TGgXp84UF?si=Y8DB8yvNR16lMRrtHSSPYg

Connect with the ZHZ Podcast:

Love the conversation? Discover more episodes, behind-the-scenes footage, and exclusive content from Zak and Matt at our main hub:

👉 https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all things Z Frequency and the ZHZ Podcast!

Chapters:

00:00 I Didn't Wake Up to Be Average

01:03 The Real Reason We Do This

10:18 Rapid Fire Round

21:31 Music as the Soundtrack to Life

25:35 Outro

#independentmusic #artistinterview #zhzpodcast

Charlie Gilder is stepping into what he calls “The Gilder Era”—and if you’ve been stuck overthinking every move, this episode is your wake-up call.

In this ZHZ Podcast interview, we talk about the mindset shift that helps artists stop staring at the problem up close and finally zoom out. Because in Independent Music, it’s way too easy to feel behind, feel overwhelmed, and feel like the whole game is stacked against you. Charlie keeps it real: you can either complain about the current music landscape… or learn how to play it and move forward.

If you’re building in the Utah Scene (or anywhere, honestly), this conversation is packed with perspective, encouragement, and practical ways to keep chasing your dreams without burning yourself out.

What we get into:

• The “Zoom Out” mindset (and why it changes everything)
• What “The Gilder Era” means and why people connect with it
• How to keep moving even when the work feels like a lot
• Encouragement for artists who feel stuck, tired, or behind
• Why “playing the game” doesn’t have to kill your creativity

Follow / Support Charlie Gilder:

Want to keep up with Charlie and what he’s building? Hit these links:

• Charlie’s main hub / store: https://gilder-prod.square.site
• Spotify (featured release): https://open.spotify.com/track/4r6Hs2yVVzXC5TGgXp84UF?si=Y8DB8yvNR16lMRrtHSSPYg
• (“Echo After Midnight” is expected around July 2026 — keep it on your radar.)

More ZHZ Podcast:

For more episodes, guest info, and everything we’re building, visit:

https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Quick favor (helps a ton)

If this episode helped you, please like, subscribe, and drop a comment:

What’s one thing you need to “zoom out” on right now?

Chapters:

00:14 Introduction to the Gilder Era

00:45 Rapid Fire with Charlie Gilder

00:57 Connecting Through Music and Social Media

03:22 The Journey of an Independent Artist

05:37 The Gilder Era: A Movement of Self-Belief

07:39 Navigating Social Media's Impact on Connection

11:28 Echoes After Midnight: A New Musical Release

20:15 Zooming Out: Gaining Perspective as an Artist

24:49 The Importance of Music Promotion

28:41 Finding Your Audience and Release Strategy

31:34 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Vulnerability

33:53 The Mental Challenges of Being an Artist

38:00 The Power of Boldness and Self-Belief

45:04 Preparing for Live Performances

49:18 Incorporating Live Elements into Performances

52:20 The Importance of Authenticity in Live Music

53:17 Embracing Mistakes and Authenticity on Stage

57:15 The Role of Support in an Artist's Journey

#independentmusic #artistinterviews #zhzpodcast

A rapid fire interview moment turns emotional when an artist describes a scent that instantly reminds everyone of grandma’s house.

What started as a fun rapid fire round took a surprisingly deep turn… and honestly, nobody saw this answer coming.

When asked what a signature scent would smell like, Michael Isaak didn’t go with anything typical—he said it reminded him of his grandparents’ house. And just like that, the whole room felt it.

It’s one of those rare moments where music, memory, and emotion all collide—and you can literally see it hit everyone in real time.

If you’ve ever had a smell instantly take you back to a place, this clip is going to land.

🎙️ From The ZHZ Podcast:

Hosted by Zak Davis & Matt Allen

Featuring: Michael Isaak

👉 Subscribe for more artist interviews, real conversations, and moments that hit deeper than expected:

https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Chapters:

00:00 Life in New York: Challenges and Experiences

03:15 Musical Inspirations and Cultural Connections

08:28 The Emotional Impact of Music

10:44 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

#PodcastClips #MusicInterview #EmotionalMoment #Storytelling #ArtistInterview

Discover how an artist's diaspora dreams led to the creation of a genre-defining sound, blending cultural authenticity with innovative music.

Meet Michael Isaak, a Brooklyn-based Egyptian American artist blending folk with Arabic traditions in a fresh genre he calls Arabesque Folk. From living vicariously through imagined desert carpets to crafting a unique sound that bridges worlds, Michael's journey is nothing short of inspiring—and a little magic.

In this episode:

• Michael's early musical influences growing up in the Coptic Church and LA
• The eye-opening trip to Egypt at 19 and cultural rediscovery
• The evolution of his sound from learned guitar chords to blending oud and folk
• How the collaboration with Sohail shaped the "Carpet Maker" album
• Authenticity in production: live recordings, DIY shows, and raw emotion
• Effective marketing for independent artists—word of mouth to social media strategies
• The future of Arabesque Folk and expanding multicultural storytelling
• The power of music as a unifier beyond language and borders

Connect with Michael:

• https://www.michaelisaak.us/
• https://instagram.com/michaelisaacmusic
• https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelisaakmusic
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMtwn2Xci7HwsR-M_XPA1nw
• https://open.spotify.com/artist/559rQJZL0GYH9lVU6zi5ey

Follow Us: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

Additional notes:

• Stay tuned for the album release on May 15, and catch his upcoming live shows.
• Dive into Arabesque Folk and discover new worlds of sound that unite, inspire, and challenge genre boundaries.
• Remember, in music and life, authenticity and community are the real magic.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Michael Isaac and Arabesque Folk

02:09 Cultural Influences and Musical Education

05:10 The Evolution of Michael's Sound

07:42 The Carpet Maker: Concept and Inspiration

10:28 Collaboration and Creative Process

13:17 Recording and Production Insights

23:59 Marketing Music in 2026

26:59 The Art of Busking and Live Performances

32:09 Cultural Identity and Self-Discovery

36:36 Challenges in Musical Fusion

43:42 The Future of Arabesque Folk Music

54:33 Exploring New Musical Horizons

57:13 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

#michaelisaak #zhzpodcast #independentmusic #artistinterview

In this Chris Murray spotlight, the ZHZ Podcast explores the ska legend’s King Apparatus legacy, his lasting influence on independent music, and why this mini episode matters for fans of ska and artist discovery.

Chris Murray is a true ska legend, and in this ZHZ Podcast mini episode, we spotlight his impact as a songwriter, performer, and one of the most respected voices connected to the history and evolution of ska music. From his early work with King Apparatus to his enduring solo career, Chris Murray has inspired generations of artists, including many musicians connected to the Utah scene and beyond.

If you love independent music, artist interviews, ska history, and discovering the artists who helped shape the sound, this Z Frequency Spotlight is for you.

Follow Chris Murray here:

Official Website: https://www.chrismurraymusic.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrismurraymusic/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5lHb57DpHI6R6pp81EyvPP

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Murray_(musician

For more independent music, artist interviews, and stories connected to the Utah scene, follow us here:

https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe, and share this with another ska fan who needs to hear about Chris Murray.

Chapters:

00:00 Spotlight on Chris Murray: A Ska Legend

00:47 The Evolution of Ska: Chris Murray's Journey

02:00 Exploring Chris Murray's Discography

02:52 The Impact of Chris Murray on Modern Ska

Join Rapid Fire 7 with X Minus 1 as they explore the mind-blowing upgrade for a robot drummer that will redefine your expectations.

When Robots and Space Cocktails Collide: The Out-of-This-World Band Talk

Ever wondered what happens when a band gets philosophical, drinks space beer, and imagines robot drummers with bonus arms? Well, strap in, because this episode is a cosmic ride through sci-fi fantasies, band banter, and the unglamorous reality of aging—all with a wicked sense of humor.

In this intergalactic episode:

* The essential upgrades for a robot drummer (spoiler: extra arms and perhaps three boobs)

* Which sci-fi flick perfectly captures their band’s vibe (think B-movies and ‘80s classics)

* Their extraterrestrial cosplay fantasies (tentacle girls and space cocaine, anyone?)

* The un-rock-and-roll reality of everyday life (hello, Centrum Silver multivitamins)

* And a dive into space-inspired cocktails and why Florida is a designated crash site

Chapters:

00:00 – Robot drummers: what’s the first upgrade?

02:02 – Which sci-fi universe fits their vibe? B-movies and glory days.

05:18 – Embracing the silver-haired life with Centrum Silver.

Resources & Links:

* https://open.spotify.com/album/3EfpOFKjotrMQTFTnxrXaB - (a timeless album for space trips)

* https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084040/ – The ultimate low-budget sci-fi flick

*https://www.amazon.com/stores/Centrum/page/A788FB8A-3B74-4972-BFA8-8F7AD231FA93 – The “rock star” aging vitamin

Connect with the band:

* https://www.instagram.com/xminus1astronauts/

* https://www.tiktok.com/@xminus1band

Follow the podcast:

https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com

And remember: Whether you’re upgrading robot drummers, cosplaying as tentacle girls, or just trying to keep your vitamins straight—stay weird, stay cosmic, and keep rocking those space vibes!

Ever heard of Salt Lake City’s rising reggae fusion band? Well, strap in because Native Leaves is bringing sunshine, groove, and good vibes from Utah to your playlist and probably making other coastal bands a little jealous. Think reggae with a splash of hip hop — and somehow it all feels effortless. Let's break down why they are the local band you didn't know you needed.

Key Takeaways:

• Native Leaves formed in 2019 and blend reggae, hip hop, and blues into their signature sunshine energy.
• Influences range from Tribal Seeds to Jack Johnson, creating a chill yet meaningful sound.
• Their 2021 LP, Dab and Fever, scored over a million streams—yeah, they’re kind of a big deal.
• They've played major venues and festivals like Reggae Rise Up and opened for Sean Kingston and Rick Ross.
• Their latest project, Runaway Child (2026), is a tight, confident sophomore effort.
• Favorite track? "Riot" — infectious groove, slick vocals, a must-listen.
• You can find them on all streaming platforms, plus check out their Florida live sessions.
• Native Leaves is proof that you don’t need to be on the coast to make coastal-worthy music.

Resources & Links:

• Native Leaves on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2HGbKZC5Nl4osBC6SAoOBg?si=p5q8zEotS2KnUwSLIRomrA
• https://www.instagram.com/nativeleaves/
• Reggae Rise Up Festival: https://share.google/3keWHGMyjByB0MeLf

Connect with Matt Allen:

• https://x.com/mattybumbo

And remember — good music is no longer just coastal. Salt Lake City’s got the vibe, and Native Leaves is leading the charge. Catch them, support local, and keep those good vibrations rolling!

Chapters

00:00 Spotlight on Native Leaves: A Unique Sound from Salt Lake City

02:07 The Evolution of Native Leaves: From Dab and Fever to Runaway Child

03:48 Supporting Local Talent: The Importance of Discovering New Artists