Podcast – Allen "Big Al" Tate

Derek Shulman Discusses His Book Giant Steps

September 2, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 17: https://gentlegiantband.com/

In this interview, Derek Shulman discussed his life journey from his Scottish upbringing to becoming a successful musician and later music industry executive. He shared his experiences with various bands, including Simon Dupree and the Big Sound and Gentle Giant, and detailed his transition from performing to working in A&R at Polygram Records. Derek reflected on the evolution of the music industry and advised emerging artists to focus on authenticity rather than fame, while also mentioning his upcoming book “Giant Steps” which explores these themes and the future of music.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/ewl4JwOz3kw

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Derek-Shulman-Discusses-His-Book-Giant-Steps-e37iv3l

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.

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Francois and Junior From Atomik Train

Big Al

August 4, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 16: https://atomiktrain.com/

This week I had a chat with Francois and Junior from the Canadian hard rock band Atomik Train, who discussed their band’s origins, current activities, and upcoming debut album release. The guys shared details about their album launch plans, including physical and digital releases, limited edition merchandise, and upcoming tour dates across Canada and the US.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/00KWt3mfiu8

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Francois-and-Junior-From-Atomik-Train-e36edra

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.

Matt Bisonnette of the Squirts

Big Al

July 28, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 15: https://mattbissonette.com/

In this episode I talk with veteran bassist Matt Bissonette, known for his work with legendary acts such as Elton John, Ringo Starr, and Rick Springfield. We discussed the formation and evolution of his band, The Squirts, including their musical influences, songwriting process, and recent album release. They touched on technical aspects of music production, such as digital audio workstations, and explored the thematic content, highlighting their lighthearted approach and influences, of the band’s latest album. The conversation also covered future plans for touring, vinyl releases, and where fans can find The Squirts’ music online.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/kx5opuvg_Ww

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Matt-Bisonnette-of-the-Squirts-e3615bf

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.

Chandler Mogel of Double Vision

Big Al

July 21, 2025

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In this conversation, Chandler, a member of the Foreigner tribute band Double Vision, discusses their new album of original material, which was released on July 11th. The band’s journey into original music was driven by their goal to establish Double Vision as a benchmark for tribute bands, with half of the album co-written by a Swedish songwriter. Chandler explains their approach to balancing tribute shows with original work, discusses the challenges of competing with the original band Foreigner, and shares insights about their performance style and online presence.

Double Vision (The Tribute): DOUBLEVISIONTHEBAND.COM
Double Vision (The Artist): DOUBLEVISIONTHEARTIST.COM

YouTube: https://youtu.be/3uvmiKLLw2Y

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Chandler-Mogel-of-Double-Vision-e35pmkm

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.

Kris Keller of Black Note Graffiti

Big Al

July 14, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 13: http://blacknotegraffiti.com

Black Note Graffiti’s Kris Keller discussed the band’s history, their latest album “Resist the Divide,” and musical influences in this conversation. The album’s theme revolves around life’s struggles and the importance of resilience, drawing from the band members’ personal experiences. Kris also shared details about their upcoming performance at the MileOfMusic.com Festival and hinted at future shows to be announced on their website.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/3DKt0rdGgSY

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Kris-Keller-of-Black-Note-Graffiti-e35eask

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.