In this engaging conversation, Tommy V, Mikey, and Steven Gray of Dikembe discuss the band's latest album 'King', the creative process behind it, and their experiences recording at Pulp Arts studio. They delve into the significance of Fest in their lives, the evolution of what constitutes a 'Fest band', and how family has become intertwined with their music journey. Steven shares insights on transitioning from guitarist to vocalist, the rewarding experience of engaging with fans at the merch table, and the importance of community in the DIY music scene. Steven also discusses the band's creative journey, including their collaboration with The Jazz June, the challenges of balancing music with teaching, and the significance of their hit song 'Scottie Spliffin'. He also shares insights into their new label, Death Protector, and reflects on the connection with Dikembe Mutombo, highlighting the band's unique place in the emo music scene.Power chords and crashing boards. Mikey, Tom, and Justin talk music, hockey, and anything else that gets in their way. Tom and Mikey are lifelong friends that grew up on Long Island during the glory days of alternative music where our local bands were As Tall As Lions, Brand New, Taking Back Sunday, Bayside, The Sleeping, Envy on the Coast, you get the point. We spent many nights together at The Downtown, catching any pop-punk, indie, hardcore, or emo band that came through. This was not a phase, Mom! Fast forward 20 years and we are still just as passionate about the scene as we were during our girl jeans and youth XL band tees days. Tom and Mikey are diehard New York Islanders fans, but Justin (Bolts fan) likes to remind us that we are #notanislespodcast. As we got older we realized we can like more than one thing and running beside our love for music has always been our love for hockey. We have realized we are not alone in this thinking, actually there are many of us that love these two things! This podcast explores just how connected they are!NEW EPISODE EVERY TUESDAY! SUBSCRIBE SO YOU NEVER MISS A GREAT INTERVIEW!#poppunk #punk #emo #hardcore #hockey #nhl #podcast #elderemo #bardownbreakdown #bardownbreakfest