Episode 23

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Published on:

9th May 2024

A Chat with James Mastro

Embracing the Dawn of a New Error with James Mastro

In this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English delves into a rich conversation with veteran musician James Mastro, primarily discussing Mastro's first solo album, 'Dawn of a New Error.' Mastro, known for his long career as a side musician and a member of the Bongos, explores the motivations behind his solo venture, reflections on his career, and the potential risks and rewards of releasing his own music. The discussion also covers Mastro's experiences playing with iconic musicians like Robert Plant, Patti Smith, and Ian Hunter. Throughout, Mastro and English touch on broader themes like the impact of COVID-19 on creativity, the interplay between religion and music, and the importance of not taking oneself too seriously while deeply committing to one's art. Listeners get a glimpse into the interconnected world of music, how it bridges diverse communities, and Mastro's enduring curiosity and openness to life's unpredictable journey.

00:00 Embracing Mistakes and New Beginnings

01:06 Introducing Curious Goldfish Podcast

01:45 A Small World Story: From Hoboken to Athens

02:28 James Mastro: The Man Behind the Music

03:29 On Tour: Reflections and Anticipations

10:36 Exploring Themes: Religion, Optimism, and Connection

17:23 Memorable Moments and Musical Connections

26:09 The Journey of a Solo Album

28:06 Curiosity, Humility, and the Creative Process

34:11 Wrapping Up with Curious Goldfish

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About the Podcast

Curious Goldfish

A Community Where Inquisitiveness and Music Come Together. Inspired by the Mindset of Ted Lasso.

Launching in 2024, the Curious Goldfish Brand is inspired by two episodes from the First Season of the Apple TV+ Series Ted Lasso.

The “Goldfish” reference is about the importance of not dwelling on mistakes in life. In an early episode, Ted Lasso, the series’ namesake asks one of his players – after they were badly beaten in a play during training – what the happiest animal on earth is. The answer: A Goldfish, because it has a 10-second memory. Lasso encourages the player to forget the mistake and to not let it hinder his mindset. In other words, to “Be a Goldfish.” The “Curious” reference is born from another Season 1 episode where Ted finds himself in a dart match at a local Pub with a ruthless Football Club Owner. Lasso references a quote from Walt Whitman to “Be Curious, Not Judgmental.”

So “Being a Goldfish” is a great start, but curiosity is an undervalued trait in today’s world. We don’t ask enough questions; we don’t inquire enough about each other and about life. So I want people to be “Curious Goldfish.”

The initial premise of the podcast will center around my curiosity about music. I can’t sing. I don’t play a musical instrument, but I am inspired by artists who are vulnerable enough to put their thoughts down and then share them with the entire world. I’m curious about the songwriting process; I’m curious about a musician’s journey; I’m curious about the business of music; I’m curious about who or what inspires a sad song, a love song - and everything in between.

Though the initial premise is music, we will likely spend time discussing and highlighting all-things Ted Lasso. In its three seasons, it inspired the host in so many ways (work, personal, relationships etc).

The musical focus of the Curious Goldfish Podcast will center around up-and-coming artists primarily in rock, roots, folk, Country and Americana genres. Not every aspiring musician will earn $100 million from Spotify streaming like Taylor Swift. Our goal is to shine a light on those artists who have as few as 100 monthly listeners to those with more than 100,000. Their stories deserve to be heard because your music can inspire, and it’s time you had a chance to share them.

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About your host

Jason English

Tech Exec by Day, Music Lover Day and Night. Former Journalist who is trying to be a middle-aged William Miller from the Movie Almost Famous. Also, Ted Lasso changed his life...so there's that.