X Minus One Proves Nerd Culture Isn't Just Cool Anymore, It's Everything

X Minus One Proves Nerd Culture Isn't Just Cool Anymore, It's Everything

Author: Zak Davis & Matt Allen April 7, 2026 Duration: 51:48

Buckle up, space cadets! Today, we're diving into the wonderfully weird world of X minus One, a Florida-based band that combines sci-fi fantasy with garage punk grit. If you thought punk was all about capturing angst, these guys are here to blow your mind and your spacecraft! Part 1 of 2 in this interview series.

In this cosmic episode:

  • How a random TikTok doom scroll led to Utah's newest sci-fi punk obsession
  • The secret sauce behind their DIY ethos—galactic style
  • The creative chaos of recording across multiple studios and spacesuits
  • The evolution from cover band to sci-fi spectacle
  • The art of making albums that flow, not just compile tracks
  • The magic of stage props like laser blasters, robot heads, and glow sticks
  • The band’s lineup lineup, including the famous "Nick-number-two" and the indispensable drummer Ryan
  • Their approach to genre-bending, from ska to power pop, with a sci-fi twist
  • How geek culture is no longer nerdy but royalty

Links:

Connect with the band:

And remember, in the space punk universe, the best prop is a good attitude and a killer tune. Keep it cosmic, and keep it loud!

Follow Us: https://zhzpodcast.riverside.com/

*Chapters:*

00:00 Introduction

00:21 Z-Frequency Spotlight and Community Engagement

02:00 Discovery of X Minus One

04:34 The Importance of Physical Media

07:28 The Shift from Albums to Singles

10:26 Band Dynamics and Member Roles

13:06 The Birth of the Space Punk Universe

17:01 The Creative Process and Collaboration

20:51 The Rise of Geek Culture

23:00 The Creative Process in Music

27:50 Recording Techniques and Equipment

30:16 The Band's Sci-Fi Persona

36:35 Latest Album Insights and Artwork

39:25 Maturity and Dependability in Bands

41:30 Band Dynamics and Personal Practices

43:51 Evolution of Musical Style

46:49 Engaging Live Performances

49:20 Transitioning to a Defined Band

51:22 Navigating the Music Scene


There's a particular energy to music made outside the mainstream, and ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music, Artist Interviews & The Utah Scene digs right into the heart of it. Hosts Zak Davis and Matt Allen, from the Z Frequency project, use their platform to amplify the voices often heard only in local venues or home studios. Each episode feels like a conversation among friends, one that just happens to be packed with the kind of practical insights and honest stories that artists usually share after the show. You'll hear from emerging independent musicians not only about their creative process but also about the real, unglamorous work of building a career from the ground up. While the pulse of Utah's vibrant local scene provides a consistent backdrop, the discussions here resonate with anyone curious about the DIY ethos shaping modern culture. This podcast serves as a vital connection point, offering listeners an authentic look at the people and passion behind the tracks. It’s for fans who want to discover their next favorite artist before anyone else and for creators looking for camaraderie and actionable advice. Tune in for genuine interviews that skip the superficial talk and get straight to what matters in independent music.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 58

ZHZ Podcast: Independent Music, Artist Interviews & The Utah Scene
Podcast Episodes
The Indie Music Grind: Where Creativity Meets Zero Budget [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:25
Ready to discover how one Finnish artist turned lockdown into a global collab fest? This episode dives into the real struggles, wild ideas, and sneaky tactics of independent musicians trying to make it without a paycheck…
From Homeless to Rock Star: The Incredible Story of Seasick Steve [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 5:54
Seasick Steve is a modern blues original—Delta stomp, DIY instruments, and an analog-first mindset that keeps his sound raw and human. In this Z Frequency Spotlight, Zak Davis breaks down Steve’s rags‑to‑riches arc, why…
The Burnout Nobody Talks About in Independent Music [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:31
Nick Sefakis shares the truth about burnout, touring, and staying creative in independent music. A real look behind the road life grind.Ever feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of creativity and exhaustion? We…
The Acoustic Band That Plays Like They’re Set on Fire [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:26
This acoustic punk band delivers a fiery, high‑energy performance that hits harder than anything in the scene.Ever wondered how a band can go from losing a van full of gear to rocking stages across Europe with nothing bu…
How Nick Rebuilt After the Iya Terra Fallout [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:49
Nick gives a live apology to fans and opens up about rebuilding after the Iya Terra fallout in this raw artist interview.Everything below is tailored to the emotional weight of the apology, the Iya Terra breakup, and the…
Nick Sefakis on Joining Iya Terra & His Solo Roots: Part 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 19:53
Ever wondered what it’s like to leap into the unknown with a guitar in hand? Nick Sefakis took that leap, left Utah, jumped into California’s music scene, and somehow turned random fan moments into chart-topping greatnes…
Life After Iya Terra: The Evolution of Nick Sefakis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:43
Discover the evolution of Nick Sefakis in his life after Iya Terra. From touring guitarist to solo producer at Enoch Sound. 🎸🎧 IN THIS EPISODE: Join Zak Davis for an exclusive Z-Frequency Spotlight on Nick Sefakis. After…