Interview with Robbie Cucchiaro, Interview 2, February 2, 2017

Partial Transcript: The record you want to talk about...

Segment Synopsis: Cucchiaro talks about the origins of the record, 1st Imaginary Symphony for Nomad; a concept album inspired by the challenges faced by the 1950s Superman actor, George Reeves. Cucchiaro explains the instrumentation that went into the record along with the underlying message of the album.

Keywords: 1st Imaginary Symphony for Nomad (album); Chocolate U.S.A; George Reeves; Julian Koster; Superman; typecast

Partial Transcript: I mean, there's that song...

Segment Synopsis: Cucchiaro explains the meaning behind The Music Tapes' song, Song for the Death of Parents. He talks about the importance of The Music Tapes' first album to him and discusses his upbringing and love of magic growing up. Cucchiaro describes how his love for arts and crafts was reflected through his work in his band.

Keywords: Song for the Death of Parents; The Music Tapes; magic; parenting

Partial Transcript: The metronome's pendulum or stick...

Segment Synopsis: Cucchiaro describes the design of the 7-ft metronome used by The Music Tapes for performances. He also talks about the his work in the band, Dixie Blood Mustache and describes some of the set designs for performances.

Keywords: Barbara Denver; Dixie Blood Mustache; John Mitchell; Julian Koster; Smoke is a Fireman's best friend; dials; metronome; puppets

Partial Transcript: And they would also, they would dress in...

Segment Synopsis: Cucchiaro talks about the importance of thrift stores in the 90s and the influence of thrift shopping in the costume design of the band Dixie Blood Mustache. Cucchiaro describes the theatrical aspects of The Music Tapes and their decision to favor unconventional performances over the rock themes of the times.

Keywords: Beth Sale; Dixie Blood Mustache; Julia Koster; Lara Hetzler; Laura Carter; rock music; theatrics

Partial Transcript: We have a podcast now that we're making...

Segment Synopsis: Cucchiaro talks about the more theatrical aspects of The Music Tapes' current work and his anxiety around entering the podcast world of music creation. He explains the anxiety he often feels before a show when on a stage and how he prefers to be level with the audience. Cucchiaro describes the story behind their most recent shows and the challenges of touring.

Keywords: Jeff Magnum; Julian Koster; Neutral Milk Hotel; The Music Tapes; The Orbiting Human Circus (podcast); performance

Partial Transcript: You know, you're always fixing things...

Segment Synopsis: Cucchiaro describes the challenges of touring with their podcast, The Orbiting Human Circus. He talks some of The Music Tapes' house performances and the importance of Christmas to him and Julian Koster. Cucchiaro recalls some of their most memorable shows.

Keywords: Baton Rouge; Julian Koster; The Music Tapes; The Orbiting Human Circus; house performances

Partial Transcript: And there were some small audiences...

Segment Synopsis: Cucchiaro describes taking tap dancing lessons at Dancefx Athens and the role of tap dancing in The Music Tapes' performances. He explains the process of learning to tap dance. Cucchiaro concludes the interview by sharing his love for playing in the band Nana Grizol.

Keywords: Dancefx Athens; Jared Gandy; Laura Carter; Matte Cathcart; Nana Grizol; The Orbiting Human Circus of the Air; Theo Hilton; tap-dancing