Episode 104 of The JamBase Podcast, a partner of the Osiris Media Network, features an interview with The Record Company‘s Chris Vos and Alex Stiff. JamBase’s Andy Kahn spoke to the pair, who along with Marc Cazorla rounds out the trio that just released their terrific third LP, Play Loud.

The interview took place recently over a video call while The Record Company was on tour in Philadelphia. The chat began with Vos and Stiff talking about that tour in support of Play Loud and how safety protocols in place because of COVID-19 have unexpectedly forced the band to be more focused on the music they make night in and night out. They explained the roles of the two touring musicians that are part of the tour and did a brief “The Art Of The Setlist” breakdown of their pre-show planning routine, while also describing how the songs from the new album are fitting into their sets.

As Vos and Stiff explained in the interview, The Record Company sought to expand their approach to writing and recording for their third album. The previous two records were self-recorded and produced by Stiff, who was among the first in the group to suggest bringing in an outside producer for what became Play Loud.

Vos and Stiff discussed making the decision to go with Grammy Award-winning producer Dave Sardy, and his extensive role in pushing the band to explore new sonic paths while staying true to the band’s foundation. Chris and Alex also talked about the decision to further shake up their previous insular approach, detailing the experience of working with outside songwriters for the first time.

The Record Company’s relationship with JamBase goes back to at least the 2015 Songs Of Their Own covers series celebrating the Grateful Dead’s 50th anniversary that featured the band covering “Easy Wind.” The interview wrapped with some exploration of how The Record Company has incorporated covers into the live and studio settings.