136: Charles Fox Interview, Chicago Recap, and George McConnell Reflections

12/06/2025 1h 36min Episodio 136
136: Charles Fox Interview, Chicago Recap, and George McConnell Reflections

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Episode Synopsis

Show NotesIn episode 136 of The Bluest Tape, hosts Harvey Couch and Jeff Kollath discuss summer activities, recap Widespread Panic's recent Chicago shows, and share a detailed interview with legendary taper Charles Fox recorded several weeks prior.Topics Discussed:Summer plans including family camps and upcoming Goose shows in Indianapolis and St. LouisDetailed recap of Widespread Panic's three-night run in Chicago featuring guest appearances by Billy Strings and Jerry JosephJeff's deep dive into George McConnell-era shows, specifically a 2003 Tallahassee performance, and reflections on that transitional periodAnalysis of how the George era might have been viewed differently if it had been shorterDiscussion of current ticket prices and venue challenges at Chicago showsTribute to Sly Stone, who passed away recentlyCharles Fox Interview Highlights:Charles's evolution from DAT trading in college to becoming one of the premier audience tapers in the sceneTechnical discussion of recording equipment, from Shep's tube microphones to modern Sound Devices recordersThe importance of positioning and the "sweet spot" for optimal recording qualityHow taper wives play a crucial support role in protecting equipment and managing crowdsStories from memorable recording experiences, including sneaking gear into Rolling Stones and Jazz Fest showsHis approach to distribution via Archive.org and maintaining multiple backup copiesIntroduction of his teenage son to the taping worldTechnical Gear Discussion:Evolution from external preamps and DAT recorders to integrated Sound Devices unitsBenefits of 32-bit recording and modern windscreen technologyThe art of discrete recording for venues that don't allow tapingRecommendations:Harvey: Karen Reed trial coverageJeff: "90 Day Hunt for Love" reality showNotable Quotes:"When this show starts and they start playing Chilly, I don't know how many people were in that venue, but it's there were like 25,000 fucking people in that. Like, they lost their gourds." - Jeff on the energy of 2003 shows"I don't know how they could be any better than they're currently playing right now." - Charles Fox on the current state of Widespread Panic"Sometimes you think it doesn't get better, but it's gotten smaller, it's gotten better sound." - Charles Fox on recording technology evolution"I usually have a kind of a scale, you know, where I recorded in Nashville, I probably have this similar game to start with at the first night of Charleston." - Charles Fox on his recording approachThe episode showcases the deep technical knowledge and dedication of the taping community while providing insight into both the current state of Widespread Panic and reflection on the band's transitional periods. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.