25 Years Later: Breaking Benjamin’s Original Era Revisited | The Popko Project Podcast Ep 261

On this episode of The Popko Project Podcast, Popko sits down with Aaron Fink (former guitarist of Breaking Benjamin, current member of Earshot and solo artist) and Baxter Teal (Deepfield) to talk about the highly anticipated live event “We Are Not Alone” presented by Fisher Promotions. For one night only—March 7th 2026 at Front Street Station in Northumberland, PA—Fink reunites with original Breaking Benjamin members Jeremy Hummel and Mark Klepaski to perform music from the band’s first two iconic albums, Saturate and We Are Not Alone. With Baxter Teal stepping in on vocals, this sold-out show promises a powerful, nostalgic celebration of the early 2000s hard rock era that helped define a generation of Pennsylvania music fans. Aaron shares how the idea came together, why this isn’t a tribute band—but rather a respectful, high-level celebration of the original material—and what it’s like revisiting songs 25 years later. Baxter discusses finding his own voice within these beloved tracks, honoring the legacy without imitation, and the full-circle journey that led him to the stage with these musicians. The conversation also dives deep into: The evolution of the music industry—from CDs and radio dominance to streaming and AI The challenges modern artists face in a hyper-saturated digital landscape The mystique (and loss of it) in today’s social media era Touring memories with bands like Three Doors Down Whether a Breaking Benjamin “Behind the Music” could ever happen It’s a candid, nostalgic, and thoughtful discussion about legacy, authenticity, friendship, and the ever-changing business of rock music. If you grew up blasting Polyamorous, So Cold, or Simple Design, this episode is for you. Brought to you by Keller's Garden Center & Landscaping Services, Ionic Development, The V-Spot Bar and Scotch Sauce - makers of Happy Boy hot sauce - get 15% off with code POPKO at scotchsaucehotsauce.com