In an ever-evolving entertainment landscape, Jason Flom and Jeff Kempler of Lava present a compelling fusion of music, podcasting, and children’s media. With their new podcast, “Bone Valley 3: Graves County,” and a renewed focus on rock music, Lava is pushing the envelope by blending advocacy and creativity. This strategy is setting new benchmarks across various platforms, making Flom and Kempler leading voices in these intersecting fields.
Lava’s Multidimensional Growth
Lava’s unique approach under Jason Flom’s leadership is redefining the industry. Known for his work with iconic labels like Atlantic and Capitol, Flom has signed artists such as Katy Perry and Kid Rock. Today, Lava Records is fostering the resurgence of rock with acts like Greta Van Fleet, The Warning, and Haiden Henderson, marking a bold shift toward revitalizing the genre.
Beyond music, Lava For Good’s podcast network is carving its niche. Flom’s nine-year-old podcast “Wrongful Conviction” has become a beacon for criminal justice reform, sharing stories of those wrongfully imprisoned. “Our aim was always to spotlight these stories, impacting change one case at a time,” notes Flom.
Podcasting and Advocacy
Lava’s expansion into podcasting was a natural evolution stemming from Flom’s passion for storytelling. The upcoming release, “Bone Valley 3: Graves County,” delves into the complex case of Quincy Cross, offering a gripping narrative that is likely to captivate audiences. “These stories need to be told. When you highlight such injustices, change can follow,” Flom emphasizes.
Jeff Kempler points out that podcasting emerged not out of commercial interest but from a need to share these compelling stories. “We saw an opportunity to use our platform to bring attention to cases deserving of justice,” he explains.
The Return of Rock
Rock music is experiencing a resurgence, and Lava Records is at the forefront of this movement. With a focus on emerging rock acts, Flom is confident about the genre’s comeback. “Music trends are cyclical. There’s a hunger for something authentic and timeless, which rock offers,” says Flom.
Artists like Greta Van Fleet are leading this charge, combining classic rock elements with fresh energy. “We’re nurturing the next generation of rock stars,” Flom adds, highlighting Lava’s mission to be a pivotal force in rock music’s revival.
Venturing into Children’s Media
Flom’s ventures also extend into children’s media with “Lulu is a Rhinoceros,” a story that stands as a testament to diversity and inclusivity. This narrative has resonated with a broad audience, including the LGBTQ community. “We created Lulu as a hero for those who feel different or marginalized,” Flom explains.
The project’s success has led to its adaptation into a series on Apple TV+. “We’re hopeful about its future, aiming for it to become a lasting series,” Flom states. This move into children’s programming showcases Lava’s versatility and commitment to meaningful storytelling.
In essence, Lava’s approach, underpinned by Flom and Kempler’s innovative strategies, is a testament to their ability to adapt and thrive across multiple spheres of entertainment. Their work continues to break barriers, leveraging Lava’s influence to inspire change and creativity.
