Florida Sound Archive Podcast

Author: Jeff Kaiser

Explore the vibrant music scene of Florida, past and present, through in-depth conversations with the artists, musicians, and industry insiders who shaped it. From the pioneers of Florida's punk and rock scenes to the contemporary sounds of today, our podcast delves into the stories, experiences, and memories that have made the state a hub for musical innovation and creativity. Tune in for insightful interviews, fascinating anecdotes, and a journey through the Sunshine State's rich musical heritage.
Be a guest on this podcast

Language: en

Genres: Music, Music Interviews

Contact email: Get it

Feed URL: Get it

iTunes ID: Get it

Get all podcast data

Listen Now...

#125 JP Soars (Divine Empire)
Episode 125
Friday, 30 January, 2026

From Florida Metal to the Blues: Raped Ape, Divine Empire, and More /////////////////// In this episode, we are joined by guitarist JP Soars to trace his journey from South Florida’s metal scene of the 1980s and 1990s to a decades-long career as a blues artist. JP shares stories from early bands like Raped Ape, Malevolent Creation, and Divine Empire, recording at Morrisound Studios and Studio 13, playing and seeing shows at venues like the Cameo Theater, The Treehouse, The Pit, Weekends, Metal Factory, and more, as well as radio, zines, and touring.He also talks about discovering blues, jazz, and roots music early on, inspired by artists like BB King, Muddy Waters, and Albert King, which eventually led to a full-circle career shift and collaborations with Jason Newsted of Metallica and Lee Oskar of War.