When the world shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, countless musicians found themselves without rehearsal spaces, live shows, or bandmates. For Calgary indie rock outfit Self-Cut Bangs, those limitations became an opportunity.What started as a songwriting outlet between Shawn and vocalist Cayley quickly evolved into a full-fledged band built on friendship, collaboration, and an unmistakable blend of soaring melodies, crunchy guitars, and infectious energy.Self-Cut Bangs began when Shawn and Cayley were unable to rehearse with their previous bands during lockdowns. Instead of waiting for live music to return, they challenged themselves to write and record songs from home.Initially, the music wasn't even intended for release. It was simply an exercise in staying creative during uncertain times. But after independently recording an album and receiving an enthusiastic response, the duo realized they had created something worth expanding.As restrictions eased, the project evolved into a five-piece band featuring Dillon on guitar, Nicola on bass, and Joel drums, bringing years of Calgary music scene experience into the fold.Every rehearsal, recording session, and performance reflects a group committed to growing together while remaining authentic to who they are. Their willingness to experiment, trust one another, and continuously evolve has transformed what began as a lockdown project into one of Calgary's most compelling indie rock bands.For fans of guitar-driven alternative rock, thoughtful songwriting, and energetic live performances, Self-Cut Bangs is a band worth discovering—and one that's only getting started.Check out Self-Cut Bangs here:https://selfcutbangs.bandcamp.com/album/circle-around-the-freehttps://www.instagram.com/self_cut_bangs/https://www.youtube.com/@selfcutbangs

We had an absolute blast in one of the most enjoyable interviews in We Talk Music's long history with Roland Grapow. Humble and self-deprecating, his music speaks volumes about the man and with a new album by his band Masterplan coming out called Metalmorphosis you'll have the chance to find out very soon why it is he's garnered fans and success for decades in the music business, so check it out!

Formed in 1983, Crimson Glory was one of the inaugural bands to lead what would become known as the progressive metal movement. Now in 2026 they prove they are still at the top of their game with their latest album Chasing The Hydra.The We Talk Music podcast is honored to have been joined by rhythm guitarist and founding member Ben Jackson to talk the past, present and future of the band in a must listen to interview, so check it out.