Sonic Dorms
Welcome to Sonic Dorms—where music history gets unfiltered.
For over five years, host Max Davallo has bypassed the rigid corporate playlists, fleeting internet trends, & algorithm-driven press junkets to bring you authentic, long-form conversations with the creators shaping our musical landscape.
Sonic Dorms operates on a simple, uncompromising philosophy: no genre limits, no filler, just deep-dive discussions with music creators we genuinely dig. From Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends & Grammy-winning virtuosos to rising independent voices, this is a dedicated safe space built on mutual respect & a pure passion for the art of sound.
Our archive features raw, artist-to-artist storytelling with icons across the musical spectrum, including:
- KK Downing (Judas Priest)
- Don Dokken (Dokken)
- Norman Brown (Grammy-Winning Jazz Guitarist)
- Kalie Shorr (Critically Acclaimed Singer / Songwriter)
Whether it’s the grit of heavy metal, the soul of smooth jazz, or the vulnerability of modern songwriting, Sonic Dorms pulls back the curtain on the true reality of the creative life.
Step inside, leave the algorithms at the door, and connect with the music.
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Connect & Support:
- Business, Public Relations, & Booking Inquiries: sonicdorms@gmail.com
- Follow the Journey on Instagram: @sonicdorms
Sonic Dorms
Inside the Sonic Dorm: A Conversation with Michael Des Barres
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In this episode, I sit down with Michael Des Barres to explore the legacy of The Power Station as the band’s 40th anniversary deluxe edition is released via Rhino Records.
We talk about the rare chemistry that brought together Robert Palmer, Chic drummer Tony Thompson, and Duran Duran’s John and Andy Taylor — a true supergroup that fused rock, pop, funk, with a sublime swagger.
Michael reflects on his key role in the band’s live history, stepping in as frontman for The Power Station’s performances after Palmer chose not to tour, aside from their iconic Saturday Night Live appearance in 1985. The deluxe edition finally gives fans an official release of the previously unreleased 1985 live show from Michael’s tenure, along with the band’s Live Aid performance, also featuring him on vocals.
We also discuss the newly remastered debut album, raw instrumentals, remixes, and why this release is especially meaningful for longtime fans who have only ever known parts of this era through bootlegs.
An insightful conversation about a lightning-in-a-bottle moment in music history — and why it still resonates forty years later.