Editor’s note: Let’s be honest—if you live in Columbus, does Zoo Trippin’ even need an introduction? Tony Casa is pretty much a walking meme. #FreeSandwich and #WTFisthatsound would be his hashtags. If you know, you know.

But for real, Zoo Trippin’ know how to party and are quite the hustlers. Between curating a festival and touring the festival circuit (and more) pretty much nonstop, they know how to put on a show and have the goods to back it up. Read below to learn more about why you shouldn’t miss their set this weekend. It’s this Sunday night by the way. But you should really go for as much of this event as you can. RSVP here.

Can you please introduce yourself?  

My name is Tony Casa (a.k.a. Sonny Black). I am the lead singer of Zoo Trippin’, and CEO of Free Sandwich Productions and Columbus Covers Columbus. 

What made you and your band want to participate in this festival?

My band and I actually came up with the concept. We love showing our friends, fans, and family the local acts that are currently killing shit, or legends of old. 

What is next for you and your band?  

Next for Zoo Trippin’ is a whole slew of festivals (next hometown fest being Steadfast Fest). We will be doing plenty of touring when we get our new van (please check out our gofundme for a new band van). There will be an in-theaters release of a documentary about our band coming soon (hopefully in February). Also, we have been creating mad content. We actually have a bit of a stock pile of new tunes, videos, and more! 

What is your favorite venue to play in Columbus? Hidden Gem?

My favorite venue to play in Columbus would have to be the Newport Music Hall. It’s the longest running music venue in America, and you can feel that history. As for hidden gems, we like to showcase the smaller/midsized venues in the 614 each year at CCC. Last year it was held at the always growing Shrunken Head. This year we are doing it in one of the first venues that gave us a chance, Ruby Tuesday Live. Each following year it will be at another local venue, showcasing the city’s diversity when it comes to these houses that rock built. 

If there were a Columbus Music Hall of Fame, what three acts would you induct?  

The three acts I would personally induct would be: Hoodoo Soul Band, The Floorwalkers, and The Phantods.

Who are some local acts our readers should be listening to?

Some acts that I recommend listing to now are The Turbos, Lily in the Weeds, Blueprint, Souther, Kienemy, Ghost Gardens, Angela Perley and the Howlin’ Moons, and def go watch Hugs & Kisses if you ever get a chance. 

What is your favorite winter activity?  

My favorite winter activity is going to any indoor festivals. I love summer music festival season, and ragers like CCC and Winter Werk Out break up the cold gloomy months. 

What is your favorite winter drink?  

My favorite winter drink is a hot toddy. It’s warm, has whiskey, and has a bit of tea for your winter cough. 

I am a huge fan of covers, what is your all-time favorite cover?  

My all time favorite cover song is “Greatest Hits” by G. Love and the Special Sauce. It’s a solid cover of the original version by Sublime. …Then again Sublime’s version of “Scarlet Begonias” kicks the shit out of the original Grateful Dead song. 

I also have a few songs that I feel should never be covered, do you have any songs that you feel should not and if so, what are they?

Covering any song by Queen seems like a danger zone move. Unless you’re Mr. Fahrenheit & The Loverboys.

If you had to eat one sandwich for the rest of your life, what would it be?  

Betchurarse it would be a FREE SANDWICH (I wonder if anyone else will answer the same way lol)!