EPISODE · Apr 9, 2026 · 25 MIN
From College Talent Shows to Road Trips: The Rise of Zinc Vacuum
from Mitten Music · host Mitten Music
Most bands get stuck in the same old formulas. Zinc Vacuum, a two-piece psych-rock band from Michigan, shook up the scene in just two years—releasing their debut album Exit Seventh and crafting a fresh sound that mixes heavy riffs, dynamic jams, and raw creativity. Their journey from college talent shows to regional gigs proves that minimalism and fearless experimentation can create a signature style that’s both innovative and instantly captivating.In this episode, Austin Barnette (guitar and vocals) and Vince MacDonald (drums) share how a chance backstage connection sparked their collaboration, leading to rapid progress—despite the challenges of being just two. You'll discover how they write, jam, and record on the fly, capturing spontaneous ideas that evolve into full-fledged tracks like Far Below and Taste. Their approach to recording live riffs, embracing imperfections, and experimenting with future ideas like keyboard adds a fresh perspective on how modern bands can stay authentic yet dynamic.You’ll also explore their influences—from Queens of the Stone Age and Black Sabbath to Tool and Pink Floyd—and how these legendary sounds shape their own unique psych-rock style. Vince’s jazz and classic rock background blends seamlessly with Austin’s psychedelic inspirations, resulting in a sound that’s both gritty and expansive. Plus, get the inside scoop on upcoming tours, the desire to expand into a trio, and the untapped potential of their solo projects—all while balancing college life and gigs.This episode is perfect for aspiring musicians, indie fans craving authentic originality, or any listener interested in how a duo can create genre-defying music through passion, spontaneity, and close collaboration. They’re proof that with the right mindset, even a small band can make a big noise—and inspire the next wave of underground rock. Don’t miss this candid conversation with Zinc Vacuum—where raw talent, creative risk-taking, and a love for true music collide.
What this episode covers
Most bands get stuck in the same old formulas. Zinc Vacuum, a two-piece psych-rock band from Michigan, shook up the scene in just two years—releasing their debut album Exit Seventh and crafting a fresh sound that mixes heavy riffs, dynamic jams, and raw creativity. Their journey from college talent shows to regional gigs proves that minimalism and fearless experimentation can create a signature style that’s both innovative and instantly captivating.In this episode, Austin Barnette (guitar and vocals) and Vince MacDonald (drums) share how a chance backstage connection sparked their collaboration, leading to rapid progress—despite the challenges of being just two. You'll discover how they write, jam, and record on the fly, capturing spontaneous ideas that evolve into full-fledged tracks like Far Below and Taste. Their approach to recording live riffs, embracing imperfections, and experimenting with future ideas like keyboard adds a fresh perspective on how modern bands can stay authentic yet dynamic.You’ll also explore their influences—from Queens of the Stone Age and Black Sabbath to Tool and Pink Floyd—and how these legendary sounds shape their own unique psych-rock style. Vince’s jazz and classic rock background blends seamlessly with Austin’s psychedelic inspirations, resulting in a sound that’s both gritty and expansive. Plus, get the inside scoop on upcoming tours, the desire to expand into a trio, and the untapped potential of their solo projects—all while balancing college life and gigs.This episode is perfect for aspiring musicians, indie fans craving authentic originality, or any listener interested in how a duo can create genre-defying music through passion, spontaneity, and close collaboration. They’re proof that with the right mindset, even a small band can make a big noise—and inspire the next wave of underground rock. Don’t miss this candid conversation with Zinc Vacuum—where raw talent, creative risk-taking, and a love for true music collide.
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From College Talent Shows to Road Trips: The Rise of Zinc Vacuum
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