And Now The Band

In this episode of And Now The Band , Tom sits down with Colin Marston of Krallice for an in-depth conversation about Krallice's evolving sound, their return to a two-guitar lineup , their latest album, and the band's approach to live performance after more than 20 years of creating experimental extreme music. Colin explains why Krallice moved away from their previous synth-heavy live setup and returned to two guitars, allowing the band to bring older and newer material together in the same live set . He also reveals how the band approaches their upcoming tours, including their unusual strategy of preparing more songs than they need and sometimes deciding the setlist only minutes before taking the stage. The conversation explores spontaneity, mistakes, improvisation, creativity and authenticity in live music . Colin explains why he isn't interested in making performances—or recordings—perfect, arguing that mistakes and unexpected moments can make music feel more alive. Tom and Colin also discuss Krallice's songwriting and production philosophy, including Colin's excitement about two particular songs from the new album and the highly collaborative process behind “Unceasing Path.” The episode also looks ahead to Krallice's month-long European tour , their successful U.S. tour opening for Blood Incantation , as well as the band's October 5th warm-up show at St. Vitus in New York . Krallice's return to a two-guitar lineup Why the band moved away from their synth-heavy live setup Mixing new and classic Krallice songs in live sets 90-minute sets and constantly changing setlists Why Krallice sometimes chooses songs just minutes before a show The importance of spontaneity in live music Why Colin embraces mistakes and imperfections Krallice's approach to recording and mixing Colin's favorite songs from the new album The collaborative creation of “Unceasing Path” Revisiting material from Krallice's first four albums Playing a song from Demonic Wealth that was never intended for the stage Krallice's 20+ year musical journey Touring with Blood Incantation The challenges of promoting underground music in the social-media era Krallice's upcoming European tour The October 5th St. Vitus warm-up show The difference between playing music and being a touring band Krallice isn't a band built around simply replaying the past. This conversation explores how a band can continue challenging itself, stay unpredictable onstage, and keep extreme music feeling alive after two decades. #Krallice #ColinMarston #ExperimentalMetal #BlackMetal #AvantGardeMetal #ExtremeMetal #ProgressiveMetal #UndergroundMetal #NewMusic #MetalPodcast #MusicInterview #BloodIncantation #DemonicWealth #StVitus #AndNowTheBand #HeavyMusic Krallice, Colin Marston, Krallice interview, Colin Marston interview, Krallice new album, Krallice new music, experimental black metal, avant garde metal, extreme metal, progressive metal, experimental metal, black metal, underground metal, Krallice tour, Krallice Europe tour, Krallice St Vitus, Blood Incantation, Demonic Wealth, Unceasing Path, metal podcast, extreme music podcast, heavy music interview, experimental music, New York metal, And Now The Band

In this episode of And Now The Band, Tom sits down with the Jasons of Molly McGuire to talk about the band's 30th anniversary of Lime, the history of Molly McGuire, their new album Disaster in Reverse, and the experiences that shaped the Jason's musical career.They discuss returning to the Molly McGuire material after years away and how surprisingly natural the songs felt when the band reunited. The conversation also dives into the band's new record, and the recording process with produced by Sisters and engineered by Paul Malinowski of Shiner and Mario Quintero of Spotlights/MollyMcGuire/Sisters.The episode goes well beyond the reunion, covering hardcore punk, Bad Brains, underground music, classic rock, songwriting, recording, live performance, and the importance of authenticity when performing another artist's material.We also share some wild stories about recording sessions, unexpected sounds captured in the studio, and their experiences with psychedelic culture and live music. They discuss what makes certain records timeless and why less-polished recordings can sometimes have more impact than heavily produced modern music.The Jasons also talks about what's next for Molly McGuire, including the band's upcoming October shows and the first single from the new album, “It's Not For You.”In This Episode:Molly McGuire's 30th anniversary of LimeRevisiting the band's classic materialThe new album Disaster in ReverseThe story behind the title Disaster in ReverseRecording with Paul Malinowski and Mario QuinteroThe first single, “It's Not For You”Bad Brains and the hardcore punk influenceUnderground music vs. mainstream productionSongwriting and recording techniquesPerforming cover songs authenticallyLed Zeppelin, Rainbow and classic rockStudio accidents and unexpected recordingsTouring and upcoming October showsThe evolution of Molly McGuireThe importance of staying true to your musical identityIf you're into heavy music, hardcore punk, underground metal, classic rock, independent music, vinyl, and the stories behind the bands you love, this episode is for you.Subscribe to And Now The Band for more conversations with musicians, producers, artists, and people working behind the scenes in heavy music.#MollyMcGuire #DisasterInReverse #ItsNotForYou #HardcorePunk #BadBrains #PunkRock #HeavyMusic #Metal #UndergroundMusic #NewMusic #MusicInterview #AndNowTheBand #LouisvilleMusic #HeavyMetalPodcast

Jeff Golden of Blood of the Earth and Six Feet Under joins Tom for EP380 of And Now The Band! While Six Feet Under was on tour, the band stopped in Louisville at the Whirling Tiger , giving Tom the opportunity to hang out with Jeff before the show. After grabbing some food and running around Louisville, the two sat down for a conversation about Blood of the Earth, Six Feet Under, death metal, music history, and what's coming next. Jeff goes deep on the story behind Blood of the Earth , including the long-awaited addition of J Costa of Thy Will Be Done on vocals. Jeff explains how long he and J had been discussing the project and why bringing it to life has ultimately been roughly 10 years in the making . The conversation also explores Jeff's introduction to death metal , the influences that helped shape his musical journey, and how those experiences eventually contributed to Blood of the Earth's sound. Jeff also talks about opening Lucky 13 in Tampa , what fans can expect from the new venture, and the work involved in creating a space for the music community. And of course, Tom and Jeff discuss Six Feet Under's current tour , including the band's extensive touring schedule and their plans to take the music around the world. Jeff Golden's work with Blood of the Earth Jeff's time with Six Feet Under The story behind J Costa joining Blood of the Earth Why Blood of the Earth has been 10 years in the making J Costa's crushing vocal performance Jeff's introduction to death metal The bands and music that influenced Jeff Blood of the Earth's development Opening Lucky 13 in Tampa Building a venue and music community Six Feet Under's current tour Touring around the world Life on the road Louisville's Whirling Tiger The underground death metal community What's next for Blood of the Earth If you're into death metal, Six Feet Under, Thy Will Be Done, underground metal, extreme vocals, touring musicians, and new heavy music , this is an episode you don't want to miss. Subscribe to And Now The Band for more conversations with the musicians, artists, producers, promoters, and people working behind the scenes in heavy music. 🔥 In This Episode:

Jake Luhrs of August Burns Red joins Tom on And Now The Band for a conversation about Seasons of Surrender , August Burns Red's 20-year career, songwriting, authenticity, vocal technique, live performance, touring, and maintaining creative chemistry after decades together. Jake explains how August Burns Red approached Seasons of Surrender with the goal of creating the best version of an August Burns Red record rather than chasing trends or making a drastic stylistic departure. He discusses the band's creative process, rewriting songs and endings, pushing one another in the studio, and developing the trust necessary to accept criticism from bandmates. Jake and Tom also compare the new album with Death Below , discussing how the darker and more progressive character of that record reflected the COVID era while Seasons of Surrender represents the band embracing who they are while continuing to evolve. The conversation covers authenticity, songwriting, collaboration, audience connection, live performance, vocal technique, touring, and longevity . Jake shares the story behind developing the low vocal technique required for "Legions" , including working with vocal coach David Benitez, and explains how he prepares his voice for touring and live performances. The episode also explores what it takes to keep a band healthy after 20 years: trust, humility, honest criticism, compromise, personal relationships, and the willingness to keep challenging yourself. Topics include: August Burns Red, Jake Luhrs, Seasons of Surrender , Death Below , metalcore, songwriting, vocal technique, "Legions," "Sonic Salvation," touring, live performance, audience engagement, vocal health, and 20 years of August Burns Red.

Sebastian of God Mother joins Tom on And Now The Band to discuss the band's massive new album Kottvarld, 15 years of God Mother, recording across multiple studios, international touring, handmade merchandise, and the importance of maintaining genuine connections within the underground music community. After nearly two years of work, God Mother are preparing to release Kottvarld, a massive album that represents a significant new chapter for the band. Sebastian explains the band's unique recording process, which involved multiple studios, including an iconic drum-recording facility where ABBA previously recorded. Sebastian also discusses the extensive network of people behind God Mother. After roughly 15 years together, the band has built a support system that extends far beyond the four members, including family, friends, engineers, PR support, and other collaborators. From recording in Daniel's father's basement to working with Michael as the band's sound engineer, that community has played an important role in helping God Mother create their music. As a graphic designer, Sebastian is also heavily involved in the band's visual identity, including album artwork, merchandise, and handmade designs. He shares the story of creating a limited-edition Stanley Kubrick-inspired poster at a show that became so meaningful to one fan that they traveled from Canada specifically to purchase it. Tom and Sebastian explore how merchandise can become more than something fans buy at a concert—it can become a physical reminder of a particular show, band, or moment in someone's life. The conversation also covers God Mother's experiences playing major venues, including Terminal 5 in New York, where they encountered fans and notable musicians including Mike Patton. Topics discussed include: God Mother's new album Kottvarld Two years of work behind the record God Mother's 15-year history Recording across multiple studios An iconic studio where ABBA recorded Recording in Daniel's father's basement Michael's role as engineer Sebastian's graphic design work Album artwork and merchandise Handmade concert merchandise Stanley Kubrick-inspired artwork Building relationships with fans Terminal 5 in New York Meeting Mike Patton European touringUK and Scandinavian shows The challenges of touring the United States International visa and touring issues Stockholm's Cyclops venue Introducing children to heavy music Metallica and Motörhead God Mother's 2013 Central America tour Spotify and music discovery The importance of underground music communities Future touring plans Sebastian and Tom also discuss the changing live-music environment and why personal interaction between bands and fans remains one of the most important aspects of underground music. For fans of God Mother, experimental metal, hardcore, extreme music, Swedish metal, underground music, and international heavy music, EP378 provides an inside look at the band's creative process, their new album Kottvarld, and the community that has helped sustain God Mother for more than a decade. Subscribe to And Now The Band for more interviews with the musicians, artists, producers, and people shaping today's heavy music scene. #GodMother #Kottvarld #Sebastian #ExperimentalMetal #ExtremeMetal #UndergroundMetal #MikePatton #SwedishMetal #HeavyMusic #AndNowTheBand

Alec of IATT joins Tom on And Now The Band to discuss IATT's ambitious concept album Etheric Realms of the Night , the psychology of sleep and insomnia, and the band's incredible feature-length black metal rock opera film now available through Thunderflix. Etheric Realms of the Night explores the different stages of sleep and the psychological experiences surrounding them, including insomnia, sleep deprivation, somniphobia, and the human mind . Alec explains how IATT approaches songwriting through extensive research and discussion of psychology, allowing the album's themes to influence both the music and the band's larger visual presentation. The conversation goes much deeper when Alec discusses the 18-month process of creating IATT's feature-length black metal rock opera film . Created independently and largely self-financed by Alec and his team, the film was produced on a shoestring budget and combines IATT's music with cinematic storytelling without traditional dialogue. Alec draws on his background in film school and music-video production to explain how the project came together, the enormous amount of time invested in it, and the self-doubt that comes with spending more than 500 hours on an ambitious creative project. The film premiered in Philadelphia before being released on Thunderflix , and Alec discusses plans for film-festival submissions, a potential special-edition DVD/CD release, behind-the-scenes material, and the possibility of eventually presenting the film with a live pit-orchestra-style performance. Tom and Alec also discuss: IATT's Etheric Realms of the Night Black metal and concept albums Sleep, insomnia and somniphobia The psychology behind IATT's music IATT's feature-length black metal film Black metal rock operas Thunderflix Independent filmmaking Film school and music-video production Spending 500+ hours on a creative project Overcoming self-doubt Album artwork and visual storytelling Vinyl, CDs and physical music Black Lion Records Envima Records The importance of the complete album experience Streaming vs. physical music IATT's upcoming West Coast tour Narcotic Wasteland Future live screenings and performances The future of IATT Alec also talks about "Walk Amongst," one of his favorite IATT songs to perform, including the possibility of incorporating live saxophone into future performances. The episode closes with discussion of IATT's upcoming touring plans, including their September West Coast tour , a show with Narcotic Wasteland , and the possibility of bringing their film to Louisville for a special screening and live event. If you're a fan of black metal, extreme metal, concept albums, experimental music, independent filmmaking, psychological horror, or ambitious DIY music projects , this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Tom sits down with recording engineer, producer, and mixer Mario Quintero for a deep conversation about three decades of recording music, the evolution of digital production, and the philosophy behind creating massive yet authentic-sounding records. Mario discusses his work with bands including Spotlights, Pallbearer, Hiroe, Shiner, Amblare, Moon Destroys, and Bunuel, explaining how his approach to recording has evolved throughout his career. Rather than relying on endless processing or technical tricks, Mario emphasizes the importance of the song, the performance, and finding the right balance between instruments. After beginning his recording journey with ADAT machines and eventually moving into Pro Tools, Mario explains how the transition from analog recording to modern digital production changed the way musicians and engineers work. He describes how today's musicians have access to an unprecedented amount of information and learning resources, allowing them to develop their skills faster than previous generations. Mario also explains his "less is more" approach to production and how, over the last decade, he has moved away from heavily manipulating individual tracks toward creating space, balance, and interaction between instruments. Additional topics include: Mario's 30-year recording career Engineering, mixing, mastering, and production Working with Spotlights and Pallbearer Hiroe and long-term musical relationships Shiner and the pressure of working with established bands Amblare and the Brian St. Pair recording Moon Destroys Bunuel with Eugene Robinson Working with smaller independent bands Analog recording and ADAT The transition to Pro Tools Modern digital recording techniques Why "less is more" can produce better records Balancing huge production with live energy Mixing and mastering Translating studio recordings to live performances Getting musicians to think about the band as a complete unit Mario shares how being both a musician and engineer allows him to work backward from a desired sonic result, often envisioning the final record while creating demos. He also discusses the challenge of remaining objective when you're deeply involved in every stage of a project and the importance of having trusted people who will provide honest, unfiltered feedback. The conversation goes beyond recording technology and into the psychology of making records. Mario explains why producers need to help musicians understand their role within the overall arrangement rather than focusing exclusively on their individual parts. He discusses overplaying, excessive effects, the importance of space, and why emotional impact ultimately matters more than technical perfection. Mario also talks about why he particularly enjoys mixing, describing the process of discovering what a great recording can become once all of the individual performances are brought together. For musicians, producers, engineers, and fans interested in what happens behind the scenes of heavy music, this episode provides an inside look at the creative and technical decisions that turn great performances into great records.

Tom welcomes legendary vocalist Mark Sunshine for an in-depth conversation covering more than three decades of heavy music, from his early days with Elysium and System Addict to his current work with Patriarchs in Black, Unida, and the emerging progressive metal project Lost Beacon. Mark reflects on his musical journey, explaining why he stepped away from music at various points throughout his career rather than settling into performing cover songs. He discusses his time with Elysium before joining System Addict alongside Damon Trotta and Ed Furman, laying the foundation for a career built on authenticity and powerful vocal performances. The conversation explores Mark's recent contributions to Patriarchs in Black, including recording "Immigrant Song" after being recommended by Mike of Non-Fiction. Mark also shares updates on the upcoming 4 Patriarchs release, revealing that three new songs are currently being completed ahead of a September deadline. He also teases another cover song suggested by Johnny Kelly of Type O Negative and Quiet Riot. Additional topics include: Mark Sunshine's career history Elysium and System Addict Patriarchs in Black Recording "Immigrant Song" The upcoming 4 Patriarchs album Working with Johnny Kelly Unida's return Mojave Festival 2027 Tabernas Festival in Spain Lost Beacon with Trevor from Ashen Hoard Performing classic songs while maintaining originality The importance of authentic live performances Touring as the ultimate test for new music Mark also discusses his role as the vocalist for Unida since 2022, including upcoming appearances at Mojave Festival 2027 alongside Yawning Man, Mondo Generator, Red Fang, and Deathchant. While excited about the band's future, he candidly addresses the frustrations surrounding delays in releasing new material and emphasizes the importance of getting music into fans' hands. Tom and Mark also dive into the philosophy of performing classic songs, discussing Rainbow, Led Zeppelin, and Chicago while exploring the balance between honoring iconic performances and maintaining one's own artistic identity. The conversation closes with updates on Lost Beacon, Mark's collaboration with Trevor from Ashen Hoard, which blends progressive metal and power metal into an exciting new creative direction.

Tom welcomes David back to the show for a complete recap of Holler of Doom 2026, reflecting on one of the festival's biggest and most successful years despite unpredictable weather, logistical challenges, and the ever-changing realities of organizing an independent music festival. David shares how heavy rain and overnight storms threatened portions of the weekend but ultimately had little impact on the performances themselves. Thanks to careful planning, dedicated volunteers, and an incredible community effort, the festival ran smoothly with no major incidents while delivering two unforgettable days of underground heavy music. The conversation highlights many of the standout performances from across the weekend, including unforgettable sets from Vibrolas, Crystal Spiders, Faerie Ring, Wyndryder, Year of October, Hollows, Phoxxxy Grandma, Earth Tomb, Riffzard, Ghost in Me, and Veilcaste, whose appearance marked the venue's 100th show. David also discusses how Vibrolas' partnership has helped shape the future direction of Holler of Doom, creating an even stronger foundation for future festivals. Additional topics include: Holler of Doom 2026 recap Overcoming severe weather conditions Festival logistics and organization Record-breaking pre-sale ticket numbers Supporting more bands than ever before Vendor and sponsor appreciation Hagtronics' festival sponsorship Merchandise sales and festival branding Growing attendance from across the United States Community volunteers and teamwork Heat exhaustion response and attendee safety Planning Holler of Doom 2027 Building one of the Southeast's premier underground heavy music festivals David also reflects on more than two decades of involvement in underground heavy music and how Holler of Doom has evolved from its humble beginnings into a destination event for doom, sludge, stoner rock, and underground metal fans. The episode concludes with a look ahead at future festivals, upcoming shows, and the continued growth of the Holler of Doom community.

Tom welcomes Patrick of Nashville-based heavy rock band Nehoda for a thoughtful conversation about the band's musical evolution, recording philosophy, the realities of balancing music with full-time careers, and the ever-changing Nashville music scene. Patrick shares the story of relocating from Seattle to Nashville nearly a decade ago in search of a more affordable city where musicians could continue creating while maintaining sustainable careers. Together, Tom and Patrick reflect on Nashville's incredible level of musicianship and how many world-class performers balance their artistic passions alongside everyday professions. The conversation explores Nehoda's evolution across four albums, highlighting the band's decision to embrace a more studio-oriented approach for their latest recordings. Patrick explains how layering guitars, vocals, and additional textures allowed the band to expand beyond their traditional live recording style while preserving the emotional core of each song. He also discusses revisiting earlier material by re-recording five songs with drummer Chip, giving longtime fans a fresh perspective on the band's growth and improved production. Additional topics include: Moving from Seattle to Nashville Nashville's thriving music community Building songs inside the recording studio The band's evolution over four albums Re-recording classic songs with drummer Chip Independent music promotion and PR strategies Balancing a full-time career with touring Quality over quantity in live performances Weekend touring and regional expansion The changing Nashville music landscape Staying artistically authentic in a commercial music city Learning to enjoy the present instead of constantly chasing the next goal Family, loss, perspective, and finding balance through music Patrick also opens up about the challenges of managing the business side of an independent band while maintaining his passion for creating music. The discussion concludes with an honest conversation about personal growth, the importance of appreciating each milestone, and why making meaningful music remains the band's greatest priority.

Tom welcomes David, Rodrigo, and Antonio of UK heavy rock band Okay You Win for an in-depth conversation about their debut full-length album End of Days , recording with producer Andy Hawkins, signing with Blues Funeral Recordings, and building a career through authenticity rather than chasing trends. The band reflects on the creation of End of Days , discussing how every song was written honestly from personal experiences without trying to fit into commercial expectations. Tom praises the album's dynamic songwriting, particularly the opening track "Smoke," while the band shares the stories behind standout songs including "Beat Me Down," "The Greatest Lie," and "Red Flag." David explains how the lyric "I won't break" became a defining statement for the record, representing perseverance through life's challenges. Rodrigo discusses the collaborative effort that shaped "The Greatest Lie," while Antonio highlights the spontaneous punk energy that made "Red Flag" one of the band's favorite songs to perform live. Additional topics include: The making of End of Days Recording with producer Andy Hawkins in Leeds Signing with Blues Funeral Recordings Honest songwriting and artistic authenticity Lessons learned during the recording process Desertfest London Opening for Alan Johannes Performing at London's legendary Underworld Opening for Orange Goblin at Cart & Horses Queens of the Stone Age's influence Favorite emerging UK bands Touring Europe and future U.S. plans Expanding internationally while remaining independent The conversation also explores the band's rapid growth, from early local performances with friends to festival appearances and major support slots. The members discuss the importance of staying true to their artistic vision while building momentum across Europe and looking ahead to future tours in the United States. Their passion for songwriting, friendship, and genuine connection with listeners shines throughout this engaging interview.

Tom welcomes Atlanta extreme metal trio Apostle for an emotional and insightful conversation about their latest EP, A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon , the band's creative evolution, and how personal loss has shaped both their music and outlook on life. The members of Apostle discuss how transitioning from a four-piece to a three-piece lineup strengthened their chemistry, streamlined their songwriting, and created a more focused creative process. Working through daily rehearsals, collaborative vision boards, and open communication, the band has developed an approach that balances technical precision with emotional intensity. A major focus of the conversation centers on grief, healing, and finding purpose through music. Maurice shares the deeply personal experiences that inspired much of the EP following the loss of multiple family members in 2024, explaining how those experiences brought greater clarity to both his songwriting and his perspective on life. Tom also reflects on his own experiences with loss, leading to an honest discussion about the healing power of music and the connections it creates between people from all walks of life. Additional topics include: The making of A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon Working with Terminus Hate City The evolution from four members to three Vision boards and collaborative songwriting Building stronger band chemistry Touring throughout the Southeast Long-term plans for the Northeast, Canada, Europe, and Japan Vinyl color variants and physical releases Creating artwork alongside Fabio using early demos and visual concepts Balancing day jobs with independent touring Atlanta's thriving underground metal community Favorite albums and artist recommendations The band also discusses the importance of maintaining friendships outside of rehearsal through regular non-music gatherings, demonstrating how strong personal relationships continue to fuel Apostle's creative growth. The result is an honest conversation about resilience, artistic purpose, and building meaningful heavy music through trust, collaboration, and shared experience.

Tom sits down with the members of Soft Curse—Jonny (vocals/guitar), Jef (bass), Michael "Mitch" (guitar), and Dan (drums)—to discuss their debut album Liminal Ritual , the band's origins following State Faults, and their unique blend of doom metal, post-rock, and atmospheric songwriting. The band reflects on how lifelong friendships and years of playing together naturally led to the formation of Soft Curse, allowing them to explore slower tempos, massive riffs, clean vocals, and cinematic textures while moving beyond the screamo and post-hardcore foundation of their previous band. The conversation explores the making of Liminal Ritual , including the decision to record the entire album live to two-inch analog tape in a single day. The band explains how the pressure of capturing complete performances created an organic energy that perfectly matched the emotional weight of the songs. Additional topics include: The creation of Liminal Ritual Recording live to analog tape Vinyl collecting and rare pressings Favorite records and musical influences The transition from State Faults DIY artwork, music videos, and independence Spotify music discovery Spotlights and modern "doomgaze" Chelsea Wolfe, Pallbearer, Electric Wizard, Acid King, and Mars Red Sky Building Dan's custom drum kit Favorite songs from the album "Weight of the Sky" and its deeply personal inspiration Bringing melody and atmosphere into heavy music Touring opportunities and future East Coast shows The band also shares stories behind several of the album's standout tracks, discussing the collaborative songwriting process, the emotional experiences that shaped the record, and why maintaining complete creative independence remains central to Soft Curse's identity. The result is a thoughtful conversation about friendship, artistic growth, and creating emotionally powerful heavy music without compromise.

Tom welcomes Ralph Torres of New York hardcore band Total Meltdown for a conversation covering the band's new EP2, the evolution of modern hardcore, vinyl releases, live performances, and the importance of mental health within the music community. Ralph discusses how Total Meltdown expanded beyond the traditional hardcore formula on EP2, introducing dynamic songwriting, noise textures, and greater emotional depth while maintaining the intensity and speed that define the genre. He also explains the band's decision to release shorter EPs, allowing listeners to experience focused collections of songs that encourage repeat listens while adapting to today's music consumption habits. The conversation explores the band's unique vinyl presentation, featuring a striking triptych artwork created by Chuck Barrett with creative direction from bassist Drew Castle. Ralph also reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome while starting the band alongside longtime friends and experienced musicians, including guitarist Chris, whose musical background helped shape the band's early direction. Additional topics include: The release of EP2 on vinyl and streaming platforms The evolution of New York hardcore Vinyl artwork and collectible releases Performing their first livestream during the pandemic First live shows and building confidence on stage Touring throughout the Northeast Supporting independent music scenes Spotlights, Mr. Bungle, Melvins, and Gorilla Biscuits Non-alcoholic beer and changing lifestyles Community, friendship, and hardcore culture Men's Mental Health Month Using music as an outlet for mental health awareness Ralph also shares how songwriting has become a powerful form of self-expression, allowing him to address personal struggles while creating meaningful connections with listeners. Together, Tom and Ralph discuss how hardcore music continues to build supportive communities where honesty, resilience, and shared experiences remain at the forefront.

Tom welcomes Amos Rifkin of Insomniac for a special episode announcing the band's upcoming Fall 2026 tour while discussing independent touring, festival culture, the evolving live music landscape, and what's next for the band. Amos shares details about Insomniac's newly announced fall tour, which follows directly after their summer run and features performances throughout the Midwest, Northeast, and East Coast. He discusses the importance of reaching new cities, returning to longtime supporters, and building sustainable touring opportunities through strong relationships with venues and promoters. The conversation also explores the realities of booking tours in today's music industry, the resurgence of smaller markets, and why intimate venues continue to be the backbone of underground heavy music. Amos reflects on the changing culture surrounding live events, including the growth of all-ages shows and the increasing popularity of alcohol-free social spaces. Additional topics include: The Summer and Fall 2026 Insomniac tours Touring with Slumbering Sun Bog Social's 12th Anniversary celebration Booking shows across the United States Building audiences in smaller music markets The rise of all-ages venues Non-alcoholic bars, THC beverages, and changing concert culture In the Key of Dune Fest Joint Jam Festival Wisconsin Doomed & Stoned Festival Visiting Acadia National Park while on tour Writing Insomniac's next album Exploring themes of grief, healing, and personal growth through music Amos also reflects on how the underground music community continues to thrive through collaboration, grassroots promotion, and meaningful relationships, offering an inside look at what it takes to keep independent heavy music alive while preparing for Insomniac's next creative chapter.

Tom welcomes Nick Crider of Dumb Waiter for a conversation about the band's latest album Change , the evolution of their songwriting, the Louisville heavy music community, vinyl collecting, and balancing music with the visual arts. Nick reflects on Dumb Waiter's progression from an intensely technical, genre-bending style influenced by Mr. Bungle toward a more focused and emotionally driven approach on their sixth album, Change . He explains how simplifying arrangements and emphasizing a single emotional direction has strengthened the band's songwriting while allowing the music to connect more deeply with listeners. The discussion also explores the band's decision to handle vocals internally after experimenting with several vocalists, resulting in a more natural integration between the instrumentation and vocal melodies. Additional topics include: The Louisville underground music scene Connections with Young Widows, Photo Crime, and Coliseum Running Gallery5 in Richmond An upcoming art exhibition with Evan Patterson Vinyl, cassette, and physical music releases Modern vinyl production and pressing improvements Favorite recent albums and underground bands Music videos for Deaf Club Greg Puciato, Better Lovers, and Jerry Cantrell Live music in intimate venues versus larger clubs Supporting independent artists and regional music communities Nick also shares his passion for collecting records, creating visual art, and maintaining a healthy balance between multiple creative outlets while continuing to push Dumb Waiter's sound into exciting new territory.

Tom welcomes Rick Jimenez of Extinction A.D. for a wide-ranging conversation covering the band's ambitious new release strategy, the realities of touring in today's music industry, songwriting, hardcore culture, and why authentic human connection remains at the heart of heavy music. Rick explains Extinction A.D.'s decision to release one new single every month through the end of 2026, discussing how the approach allows the band to remain creatively flexible while responding to current emotions instead of waiting years between album releases. He also reflects on the financial challenges facing independent bands and why modern touring requires careful planning more than ever before. The conversation explores the growing overlap between thrash metal, death metal, and hardcore, along with the resurgence of younger audiences discovering heavy music through live shows. Rick also shares his frustrations with social media algorithms, discussing the difference between meaningful fan engagement and chasing online metrics. Additional topics include: Working with M-Theory Audio after Unique Leader Records Touring economics in today's music industry Creating meaningful content instead of chasing algorithms Personal training, sales, and staying authentic Why live music creates irreplaceable human connections AI and the future of creativity Building stronger local music scenes The importance of smaller, packed venues Songwriting and demo production Writing over 90 minutes of material before entering the studio Early musical projects with Chris Enriquez Future musical experiments inspired by Failure and Cro-Mags Rick also discusses his philosophy on songwriting, collaboration, and artistic integrity, offering an honest perspective on balancing creativity, family, work, and life as an independent musician in today's evolving heavy music landscape.

Tom sits down with Dave Krusen, the original drummer of Pearl Jam, for an engaging conversation about Loud Love: A Tribute to Soundgarden , Seattle's legendary grunge movement, and the evolution of the modern music industry. Dave discusses joining the Loud Love tribute project, explaining how the opportunity to honor Soundgarden's legacy and support a meaningful cause made the invitation impossible to refuse. He shares the challenges of learning Matt Cameron's intricate drum parts, ultimately finding his own interpretation while respecting the spirit of the original performances. The conversation explores Seattle's explosive music scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s, reflecting on the rise of Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, and Nirvana, and how the city's unique culture helped define an entire generation of rock music. Additional topics include: Relearning "Loud Love" on drums Matt Cameron's drumming style and influence Touring life and favorite memories on the road Seattle landmarks and music history The Showbox and Seattle's legendary venues Dave's current band, The Vases Recording new music at Litho Studios The changing economics of the music industry Artist ownership and retaining music rights New music recommendations including Neurosis and Volcandra Tom also shares personal stories about visiting Seattle on his honeymoon, exploring iconic Pearl Jam locations, and discussing how the grunge movement continues to inspire musicians around the world. This episode is packed with stories from one of rock's most influential eras while offering an insightful look at where independent music is headed next.

Jordan Nalley of Louisville based Sporelord spent some time chatting with me about the band and his shop. A local TCG shop named Heavy Meta Gaming. Jordan helps explain how Sporelord puts together their unique sound. How they fit on to so many different bills. From playing with some super heavy bands to some not so heavy bands. We also talk about their unique approach to releasing music It really helps each single stand out on its own and makes each single a collectable.

While on tour with Death Angel and VIO-Lence, El from Arizona based Incite joined me from behind the merch booth for a quick chat before the show. We discussed everything from The release of Savage New Times last year to the current run with these rad bands and crew. El talked about how everyone was super helpful and there were no egos on this run. I need to say that this bill absolutely rips and it's a tour you don't want to miss if you're into Thrash. This tour runs for a couple more weeks. They're on the West Coast now finishing up. I'm hoping they do another run soon!