A Chat with James Mastro

Curious Goldfish

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