136: Charles Fox Interview, Chicago Recap, and George McConnell Reflections

Show Notes

In episode 136 of The Bluest Tape, hosts Harvey Couch and Jeff Kollath discuss summer activities, recap Widespread Panic's recent Chicago shows, and share a detailed interview with legendary taper Charles Fox recorded several weeks prior.

Topics Discussed:

• Summer plans including family camps and upcoming Goose shows in Indianapolis and St. Louis
• Detailed recap of Widespread Panic's three-night run in Chicago featuring guest appearances by Billy Strings and Jerry Joseph
• Jeff's deep dive into George McConnell-era shows, specifically a 2003 Tallahassee performance, and reflections on that transitional period
• Analysis of how the George era might have been viewed differently if it had been shorter
• Discussion of current ticket prices and venue challenges at Chicago shows
• Tribute to Sly Stone, who passed away recently

Charles Fox Interview Highlights:

• Charles's evolution from DAT trading in college to becoming one of the premier audience tapers in the scene
• Technical discussion of recording equipment, from Shep's tube microphones to modern Sound Devices recorders
• The importance of positioning and the "sweet spot" for optimal recording quality
• How taper wives play a crucial support role in protecting equipment and managing crowds
• Stories from memorable recording experiences, including sneaking gear into Rolling Stones and Jazz Fest shows
• His approach to distribution via Archive.org and maintaining multiple backup copies
• Introduction of his teenage son to the taping world

Technical Gear Discussion:

• Evolution from external preamps and DAT recorders to integrated Sound Devices units
• Benefits of 32-bit recording and modern windscreen technology
• The art of discrete recording for venues that don't allow taping

Recommendations:

• Harvey: Karen Reed trial coverage
• Jeff: "90 Day Hunt for Love" reality show

Notable Quotes:

• "When this show starts and they start playing Chilly, I don't know how many people were in that venue, but it's there were like 25,000 fucking people in that. Like, they lost their gourds." - Jeff on the energy of 2003 shows
• "I don't know how they could be any better than they're currently playing right now." - Charles Fox on the current state of Widespread Panic
• "Sometimes you think it doesn't get better, but it's gotten smaller, it's gotten better sound." - Charles Fox on recording technology evolution
• "I usually have a kind of a scale, you know, where I recorded in Nashville, I probably have this similar game to start with at the first night of Charleston." - Charles Fox on his recording approach

The episode showcases the deep technical knowledge and dedication of the taping community while providing insight into both the current state of Widespread Panic and reflection on the band's transitional periods.

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