In Episode 315 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast, host Mert Tyson sits down with Brad Christmas, frontman of the Australian Americana outfit Copperline, for an in-depth exploration of craftsmanship, creativity, and the human element in modern music.
Brad opens up about collaborating with renowned producer Shane Nicholson for their third album, Sleepwalking, highlighting the deliberate choice to embrace organic production and the “right level of imperfection” over over-polished, modern digital trends. The pair dive into the importance of leaving space in music drawing parallels to classic records like Neil Young’s Harvest, and discuss how the pandemic birthed the album’s title track during a cycle of creative routine.
The conversation tackles pressing modern topics, including the impact of AI on human connection, the illusion of FOMO, and the artificial tightening of genre boundaries in 2026. Brad also shares the personal inspiration behind key tracks like “In Beautiful Things” and “Songs Still to be Sung,” explaining how songwriting acts as a healthy compulsion to process life’s challenges.
Beyond the music, Brad gives listeners a backstage peak into Copperline’s band dynamics—revealing surprising trivia about his bandmates, including a secret penchant for 80s hair metal and Toto. He also touches on his dual life as an author (Saltwater Boy) and his work running a creative agency alongside his wife to support charities. The episode wraps up with details on Copperline’s upcoming Australian tour dates for 2026 and 2027.
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