Joseph Pszonek

How long have you been involved with Folk Music Notebook and how did you first hear about the platform?

Ron Olesko (station owner) and I have been friends for many years. He was kind enough to invite me to do my shows on the channel.

You host two shows on Folk Music Notebook, “Radio Nowhere” and “The Train Wreck.” Tell us about them and how they differ from one another.

Both shows are dedicated to the adventure of discovering new music and new, independent artists. Radio Nowhere is a two hour show on Sunday evenings (eastern) that features singer-songwriters, some folk and blues with an emphasis on artists from The UK, Ireland and parts of Europe. The Train Wreck show basically allows me to “flush the format” and play new music and deep dives, some with more of a rock edge. I also include some jazz, blues, rock, classical styles. The idea is to throw back to creative radio as inspired by radio legends like Vin Scelsa.

What was your favorite release of the past year or so?

Wow! A tough one. Since I have to pick one, I will go with Sowing Acorns by Emma Langford. She is a wonderful performer Limerick, Ireland with the voice of an angel.

Are there any upcoming releases that you are particularly excited about?

All of them, really, because this radio thing is such an adventure. I love to share that discovery with my listeners! I was very happy with Bruce Springsteen’s new one though!

Do you have a favorite artist or album you never get tired of listening to?

Bruce Springsteen Born To Run

Which artist/band has put on the best show you’ve ever seen live?

Another really tough one! I’ve seen so many artists over the years. I will pick one particular unforgettable moment in time. August 8, 1974 Roosevelt Stadium, Jersey City. This was the night that Richard Nixon resigned as President. Unforgettable, though far from perfect musically!

Who is an artist or band totally outside the realm of the music you play on your two shows that people might be surprised to know you love?

Not too much is out of the realm but I’ll go with Black Sabbath

What is your best childhood memory?

My father’s bedtime stories. He worked a lot so these were special moments.

What event in your life would you say has shaped you the most as a person?

Gotta cheat and give you two: The birth of my two children and marrying my wife, Sue.

If you could choose, what time period in the past would you most want to travel back to and visit?

The Roman Empire around 30 CE

Do you have a favorite restaurant in town (dine-in or take out) that you recommend people try?

OSTERIA ITALIANA Garfield, NJ. Very authentic

What in your life brings you the most joy?

Music is my religion.

Lightning Round:

Dog or Cat? Dog
Morning Person or Night Owl? Morning
City or Country? Country
Beach or Mountains? Beach
Watch TV or Read A Book? Book
Sunny or Rainy? Sunny
Restaurant or Home Cooking? Restaurant
Pants or Shorts? Shorts
Warm or Cold drinks? Cold Drinks

Given all of our time now spent at home, do you have any current favorite shows you’re enjoying/binging? How about a movie (new or old) that you’ve watched recently that you loved?

Schitts Creek

Finally, what do you miss most about your pre-pandemic life?

Travel (esp. Italy!)