ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music, Artist Interviews & The Utah Scene cover art

ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music, Artist Interviews & The Utah Scene

ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music, Artist Interviews & The Utah Scene

By: Zak Davis & Matt Allen
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About this listen

Looking to discover fresh independent music, hear authentic artist interviews, and connect with the Utah music scene? The ZHZ Podcast is your backstage pass to indie culture. Hosted by Zak Davis and Matt Allen of Z Frequency, we spotlight emerging independent artists, share insider industry insights, and explore the DIY journeys shaping today’s sound.

Whether you’re an indie artist learning the ropes, a fan searching for new voices, or a local supporter of Utah’s creative community, this show brings you closer to the stories behind the music.

🎧 New episodes every week — subscribe now to discover your next favorite artist and join us inside the world of independent music.

2025 Zak Davis & Matt Allen
Music Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Chris Murray Spotlight | Ska Legend, King Apparatus Legacy & ZHZ Podcast Mini Episode
    Apr 24 2026

    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

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    4 mins
  • Rapid Fire 7 with X Minus 1: The One Upgrade for a Robot Drummer That Will Blow Your Mind
    Apr 21 2026

    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!

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    6 mins
  • Dive into the Vibe: Native Leaves, Salt Lake City's Reggae Hip Hop Dream Team
    Apr 17 2026

    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

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    4 mins
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