The Kousins were down one again this week. Kousin Ray was running the length of West Virginia. But, the other Kousins found another family member to fill the empty chair.

Admittedly, neither Kousin Tim, Kousin Gary, nor Kousin Marvin had more than the slightest knowledge of the Canadian three-piece from Toronto not named Rush, so Jem from Alabama was asked to join, and we talked about one of his faves, Triumph.  The “album” listened to was the 2010 Greatest Hits Remixed. Some may say a greatest hits compilation is cheating, but since the band was foreign, why not play the “hits?” Jem gave some fandom insights and commentary. Thank you, Jem!

No calls this week.

Are you a fan of Triumph? What is your favorite Triumph album?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Kousin Gary is on a dude holiday with his son this week, so the other Kousins decided it was time to do some “Now Listening,” or as we call it, “Extended Now Listening,” and do what we usually do and split our regular “Let Me Know” segments and interweave the two. It is three regular tunes plus one Christmas-themed one. We had fun with it.

We had calls from Jem from Alabama and Bruno from Sweltering Hot South Africa.

What have you been listening to?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The reason this podcast started was that there were three KISS Kousins who needed something to do during the pandemic. Along came a fourth – honorary Kousin. We had a great run as a KISS podcast. But we moved away from KISS once they hung up the platform boots and batwings. And we acknowledge that our hard rock fandom would be nothing without KISS, and KISS would be nothing without the release of their 1975 live masterpiece, Alive!.

Because it is a masterpiece doesn’t make it immune to scrutiny, however. The Kousins each took turns talking about other songs from the first three studio albums that they each would like to have heard on this album, and, in some cases, rearranged parts of the setlist to reflect their choices.

We hope you enjoy our takes. Additionally, Gary discusses taking his kids to see Vola.

Calls from Bruno from South Africa, Jim from Irwin, and Jem from Alabama, who delivers a bombshell line that keeps on giving throughout the podcast.

Which songs from the first three studio KISS albums would you have rather heard on Alive!? And in what order?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Kousins have done album showdowns before. But, in some instances, that just doesn’t seem fair to some of the songs on the two albums.

This week, Roadie Ray commands 1979’s Dynasty while Kousin Gary defends that album’s sibling, 1980’s Unmasked. Two albums, both some of the most polarizing in the Katalog, that fans either love or hate. Most people aren’t on the fence about them. Kousin Tim and Kousin Marvin both like each album, so they have the unenviable task of judging. There were some ties, so look for those on Twitter and cast your vote.

How is this different from most album battles the Kousins have done? After a coin flip, the winner can either go first or defer their pick. The first picker chooses their “gladiator” or song for battle. After a short listen, the opposing picker chooses the song (or gladiator) to battle the round’s opening song. The other two Kousins then vote for the winner. The two pickers can change their vote if they choose to, as well. Whichever song has the most votes… wins. If there’s a tie, it goes to Twitter for tiebreaker votes. If that doesn’t make sense, just give a listen and it will become as clear as mud.

The Kousins gave their now listenings. And a call from a long-time listener/first-time caller, Jim from Alabama!

How would your vote go on the songs on Dynasty or Unmasked?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
You can also see it on our YouTube channel. We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!
This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Roadie Ray had to put out some fires in his day job, so the Kousins had to go on without him this week.

This week is the anniversary of 1975’s Dressed To Kill. Three of the four Kousins think that album is mostly “filler,” or songs put in to fill in the cracks and extend the length of the album.

For this episode, Kousin Tim, Kousin Gary, and Kousin Marvin go from KISS (self-titled) through Unmasked (not counting live, solo, or greatest hits albums) and debate and sometimes argue over which songs could have been left off. There were some “rules” that were never really followed, but they gave it a good college try (not really). There were some drop-jaw moments for sure as one of the Kousins is a total “contrarian.”

The Kousins gave their “Now Listening” and covered the “Let Me Know” section.

What are the songs you’d leave off from each of those eight albums?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).

We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!

This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Not technically the opening week of the month (okay, not at all…) we decided to do an “opener” topic. Iron Maiden opened for KISS on the Unmasked tour in 1980 which was odd because that was KISS’s poppiest album and IM was like a hard rock punk band. A strange pairing indeed.

So each Kousin picked their own Top 5. There were some diverse choices, but the end came down to two heavy hitters. In the end, a collective Top 5 was determined via weighted scoring.

Kousin Tim gloated a bit on a recent victory, and each Kousin gave their “Now Listenings.”

What would be your Top 5 IM songs?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).

You can also see it on our YouTube channel. We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!

This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Kousins have done album showdowns before. But, in some instances, that just doesn’t seem fair to some of the songs on the two albums.

Kousin Tim and Kousin Marvin battle with two albums chosen by our Twitter fans. This time around, for the battle of first place in the tourney, KT takes Lick It Up and KM takes Revenge.

How is this different from most album battles the Kousins have done? After a coin flip, the winner can either go first or defer their pick. The first picker chooses their “gladiator” or song for battle. After a short listen, the opposing picker chooses the song (or gladiator) to battle the round’s opening song. The other two Kousins then vote for the winner. The two pickers can change their vote if they choose to, as well. Whichever song has the most votes… wins. If there’s a tie, it goes to Twitter for tiebreaker votes. If that doesn’t make sense, just give a listen and it will become as clear as mud.

The Kousins gave their now listenings.

How would your vote go on the songs on the LIU or Revenge?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).

You can also see it on our YouTube channel. We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!

This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

For the first time in our podcast’s history, we were a duo. Kousin Marvin had a family issue and Roadie Ray had a work thing. So, Kousins Tim and Gary went on with the show. Barstools and caffeine drinks and all. That part isn’t true.

But, the conversation was the top riffs from KISS. Specifically, the top from Paul, Gene, and Ace. We know that Peter didn’t write anything musical. Heck, he barely even wrote lyrics.

We had a discussion last week about the difference between a riff and a lick. KT had it all wrong, exactly the opposite, really. Here’s the definition of each.

Essentially a riff is a full musical phrase with a structure and repetition to ensure the ear catches and understands its wholeness. That is why it is an entity of its own. On the other hand, a lick is an incomplete musical idea that, if put together with other licks, can amount to a riff. (Rock Guitar Universe)

These were all from the early makeup era. KT and KG went through a collective Top 15 with some honorable mentions and a “bonus.”

KT/G gave their riff-influence “Now Listenings.”

What are your favorite KISS riffs?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).

You can also see it on our YouTube channel. We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!

This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Kousins have done album showdowns before. But, in some instances, that just doesn’t seem fair to some of the songs on the two albums.

Kousin Gary and Roadie Ray battle with two albums chosen by our Twitter fans. The self-titled debut and Rock and Roll Over. KG took the s/t and RR held down the fort with RNRO.

How is this different from most album battles the Kousins have done? After a coin flip, the winner can either go first or defer their pick. The first picker chooses their “gladiator” or song for battle. After a short listen, the opposing picker chooses the song (or gladiator) to battle the round’s opening song. The other two Kousins then vote for the winner. The two pickers can change their vote if they choose to, as well. Whichever song has the most votes… wins. If there’s a tie, it goes to Twitter for tiebreaker votes. If that doesn’t make sense, just give a listen and it will become as clear as mud.

The Kousins gave their now listenings.

How would your vote go on the songs on the self-titled or RNRO?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).

You can also see it on our YouTube channel. We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!

This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Eugene B. Sims from Wheeler’s Dog Podcast joins the Kousins to discuss the first Van Halen album, Van Halen (1978).

Euge tells the story of the first time he heard the album, and the Kousins tell their stories, too.

More Van Halen albums were discussed. Why is this a relevant topic for a KISS podcast? The album was in direct correlation to the demo that Gene Simmons produced.

The Kousins and Euge give their now listenings.

Do you remember your first experience with Van Halen, first album or otherwise?

The Kousins wish the Starchild, Paul Stanley a happy 71st birthday on January 20.

They each compiled 5-10 songs that they’d rank among their favorites of Paul’s lead vocal moments.

Some Now Listenings but no mailbag this week.

What would be your top 5-10 Paul vocals?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).

You can also see it on our YouTube channel. We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!

This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Kousins have done album showdowns before. But, in some instances, that just doesn’t seem fair to some of the songs on the two albums.

This week, Kousin Marvin put his #1 (on his ranking list), Hotter Than Hell, against Roadie Ray’s #1, Love Gun. What makes this cool is that these two albums are powerhouses in the KISS Katalog.

How is this different from most album battles the Kousins have done? After a coin flip, the winner can either go first or defer their pick. The first picker chooses their “gladiator” or song for battle. After a short listen, the opposing picker chooses the song (or gladiator) to battle the round’s opening song. The other two Kousins then vote for the winner. The two pickers can change their vote if they choose to, as well. Whichever song has the most votes… wins. If there’s a tie, it goes to Twitter for tiebreaker votes. If that doesn’t make sense, just give a listen and it will become as clear as mud.

The Kousins gave their now listenings. A response to The Huge to The Euge feud with a third competitor entering the ring.

How would your vote go on the songs on Hotter Than Hell or Love Gun?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).

You can also see it on our YouTube channel. We have Instagram and Twitter. We would appreciate a like, rating, and review. Subscribe and follow!

This podcast was recorded in The Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and recorded via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

This weekend will be Kousin Marvin’s birthday! And thus, all four Kousins added three songs each from the year 1976 to celebrate him in a 1976 Mixtape (well, mostly). All the Kousins seemed happy with this mixtape. You should listen and see what you think.

Calls from Bruno from Sunny South Africa, Jim from Irwin, and Dave from Winston-Salem.

What are your three favorite songs from 1976?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

This coming week, Kousin Gary starts his new residency on Camel City Radio. It will be about new music discovery and will be called Asylum – First Listen. It won’t necessarily be new releases, although that’s not ruled out. This will feature newly discovered music, not just from Kousin Gary, but also for listeners of this podcast and, hopefully, new listeners to both the radio show and this podcast. To preview the concept, at least relatively, the Kousins did an “Extended Now Listening,” offering things “new” to them (and hopefully to you). Scattered through the tunes from each Kousin, Kousin Marvin gave his “Let Me Know.”

Calls from Bruno from Windy South Africa, Jim from Irwin, Jem from Alabama, Nick from California, and Ze German.

You can get the Camel City Radio app in the Google Play Store and Apple Store. Camel City Radio is available in the  USA, Canada, Mexico, and the UK. There may be ways for you to listen outside of those areas. Google it!

What’s something new you discovered recently?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Yesterday was Kousin Ray’s birthday! And thus, all four Kousins added three songs each from the year 1970 to celebrate him in a 1970 Mix Tape. Kousin Ray seemed happy with his mix tape. You should listen and see what you think.

A call from Bruno from South Africa. It seems the Spinquisition went well.

What would you contribute from 1970 for Kousin Ray’s birthday mix?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

All four Kousins were in the proverbial house this week. And, with that, there is a new theme intro and outro performed by the fantastic Stuart Hill. But that isn’t all the “new” that the Kousins threw at you this week.

A new segment, called Spinquisition, was launched and will occur approximately every 4-6 weeks.

The premise is this: the Kousins put out a call for their dedicated listener base to send in album recommendations. As was put to them(ish):
“We will load a long list of albums into the randomizing wheel (we dubbed it ‘Takamata’) with the premise of the episodes being that we have to review an album, start to finish, listening party-style with no prep, no advance notice, and totally at random.”

And the listeners came through!  The albums can be any genre as long as they fall in the “Rock” category. Metal, hard rock, grunge, classic rock, current rock, southern rock, new wave, whatever! They can be great, they can suck… all suggestions were welcomed!

Takamata was spun and landed on the album Witness (2021) by the Danish band Vola. That album was submitted by listener Henning, also known as Ze German.

The Kousins spun it and gave an honest review of this album.

There were calls from Nick Provenzano, Bruno from Sunny South Africa, Jim from Irwin Toronto, and Jem From Alabama.

Do you have a submission for Takamata and the Spinquisition?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862). You can leave an email at abner@asylumpodnetwork.com as well!
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Kousins Marvin and Ray were both out, so that left Kousins Tim and Gary on their own. However, the shimmering light known as Christy came and sat in, and offered her perspective on this week’s topic. Speaking of which, circumstances over the last month have kept the Kousins from talking about the 40th anniversary of Live-Aid. The discussion was on the event, who watched it (which was 95% of the televisions in the world except for Kousins you know and love), the aftermath, the performances, and much more. We thank Christy for being our maiden in the tower.

There were calls from The Bringdowns, Bruno From South Africa, Communal Steve, and Jem From Alabama.

What are your memories of Live-Aid?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

A few weeks ago, Kousin Tim committed to a deep dive into Dio-era Black Sabbath albums; at least the first two. That said, Kousin Tim discusses Heaven & Hell (1980) and Mob Rules (1981) with his thoughts – and, believe it or not, he has a lot to say – about his feelings and what he may like or dislike, not only about these albums, but he discusses Ozzy Sabbath and Dio solo stuff, too. This Friday is also the 44th anniversary of the launch of MTV. So, there was a discussion about the once-music-laden channel that now only stands for Miscellaneous Television.

There were calls from Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, and a message from Bruno From Extraordinarily Cold South Africa.

What are your thoughts on Heaven & Hell and Mob Rules?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

This week, the music world is mourning the passing of John Osbourne, better known to his friends, you, and us as Ozzy. We say music world. Not just the metal world. Not just the hard rock world. Celebrities, musicians, artists, influencers, and everyday joes from ALL walks of life, genres, backgrounds, and origins are mourning our beloved Ozzy. We won’t discuss it extensively here in the show notes, as we feel it was adequately conveyed by our listeners who called in, our own thoughts and memories, and more.

Thanks to Eugene B Sims, Jem From Alabama, Jim From Irwin, Nick Provenzano, and Bruno for calling (or writing in).

What is your most excellent Ozzy memory? Or, your favorite Ozzy song, either solo or with Black Sabbath?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

A few weeks ago, the Kousins did a retrospective of music (and other pop-culture things) from 1988, which focused on the hard rock genre. Then, three weeks ago, the grades came in for 1988. Well, a lot of feedback/backlash/tongue lashes later, it was decided some of the most iconic albums of that year had been left off. So, this week, is “Part Deux,” grading 13 more albums that came out that year.

The Kousins will be visiting other years. But before we all move on, it was time to grade the top hard rock albums of 1988 (in their opinion).

The albums that were graded (from A+ to D-) were (in no particular order):

Poison- Open Up and Say Ahh!
Cinderella- Long Cold Winter
Kix – Blow My Fuse
Scorpions – Savage Amusement
LA Guns – LA Guns
Lita Ford – Lita
Jane’s Addiction – Nothing Shocking
King’s X – Out Of The Silent Planet
King Diamond – Them
Bulletboys – Bulletboys
Vinnie Vincent Invasion – All Systems Go
Living Color – Vivid
Winger – Winger

Calls from Jim From Irwin and Ze German

Do you prefer this list to the last one? How does it stack up?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

So, the final show for Ozzy and Black Sabbath was this past weekend. Kousin Gary streamed the whole show, carrying his laptop with him everywhere he went. He provided a comprehensive recap of the event, including the artists, surprises, and the spectacle. The Kousins talked about issues that the online world spouted off about, and the pluses and minuses. There’s even a small comparison between the Black Sabbath Farewell and the KISS Farewell.

After that, the Kousins presented their Collective Top 10 (okay, 13) Sabbath songs, which were picked from the whole career of Black Sabbath.

Calls from Jim From Irwin and Jem From Alabama, as well as a message from Bruno From Sunny (we hope) South Africa.

What would your Top 10 Sabbath songs be from any era?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

On November 24, 1991, KISSdom lost its backbeat, its rhythm. Eric Carr succumbed to heart cancer at the age of 41. Kousin Tim had just turned 21 and took up temporary binge drinking the night he heard. The news of this could have been, nay, should have been bigger; it was a great loss. However, Eric’s death was overshadowed by that of another musical celebrity, probably a bit more high-profile, Freddie Mercury of Queen.  Freddie’s death carried with it the burden of being AIDS. The first-or biggest-named musician who had died from the disease, Freddie, became, and rightfully so, a martyr for fighting the disease or at least its awareness. Kousin Tim vowed to always hold Eric’s passing as important as Freddie’s, and that’s what this episode is about. Honoring both men and their legacies. AND Happy Thanksgiving!!!

We received calls from Bruno from Still Windy South Africa, Jim from Irwin, Nick Provenzano from Northern California, Jem from Alabama, and Ze German (Henning).

What are your favorite Eric Carr and/or Freddie Mercury songs, moments, or stories?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

A few weeks ago, we were supposed to have Stuart Hill on to talk about Matt Mullins & The Bringdowns (in which he’s the guitar player), but due to technical issues, that didn’t happen. We rescheduled with both Stuart AND Matt himself. Well, Stuart had another engagement he had to tend to, so Matt came solo. The Kousins and Matt did a listening party of the newest album from the group, called Learn From Letting Go. And, a first for the podcast, Matt actually played two of the songs live for us on the podcast. We hate that Stuart couldn’t make it, but we had a great time.

Calls from Bruno from Sunny South Africa, Jim From Irwin, and Jem From Alabama.

Have you heard the new Matt Mullins & The Bringdowns album? If not, why and what are you waiting for? If so, what did you think?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

First, our producer apologizes for the lack of an episode last week. There it is; we’re done with it. No more mentions.

A few weeks ago, the Kousins did a retrospective of music (and other pop-culture things) from 1988, which focused on the hard rock genre (which can be found here). The Kousins will be visiting other years. But before we all move on, it was time to grade the top hard rock albums of 1988 (in their opinion).

The albums that were graded (from A+ to F) were (in no particular order):

Bon Jovi – New Jersey
Guns N’ Roses – G N’ R Lies
Metallica – …And Justice for All
Van Halen – OU812
Iron Maiden – Seventh Son of a Seventh Son
Ozzy Osbourne – No Rest for the Wicked
Queensrÿche – Operation: Mindcrime
Danzig – Danzig
Megadeth – So Far, So Good… So What!
Judas Priest – Ram It Down
David Lee Roth – Skyscraper
Helloween – Keeper of the Seven Keys Part II
Slayer – South of Heaven

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, Nick Provenzano, and Bruno From Sunny South Africa.

What would your grades be from the hard rock albums of 1988?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

It’s KISS Throwback time! The assignment was to pick your top five tracks #5 on the 20 KISS studio albums.

To be clear, the #5s to choose from were:

Let Me Know, Let Me Go, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Rock Bottom, Flaming Youth, Baby Driver, Tomorrow & Tonight, Charisma, What Makes The World Go Round, Only You (using the original 1981 track listing from Music From ‘The Elder’), Danger, Gimme More, Lonely Is the Hunter, I’m Alive, Hell or High Water, Read My Body, God Gave Rock & Roll To You II, I Will Be There, We Are One, Stand, Shout Mercy.

Kousin Gary was out, but he still participated in this discussion.

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Dave From Winston-Salem, Bruno From Wintery South Africa.

What is your top #5s from the list above (and the bottom #5s if you’re so inclined)?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Continuing our 1988 theme, the year saw a months-long tour come to the USA and use the name Monsters of Rock. The show consisted of performances by openers Kingdom Come, Metallica, and Dokken, as well as headliners Scorpions and Van Halen.

What the Kousins did was find four songs from each act, put them in the order that they were played, and create a listening party. Along the way, Kousin Ray told stories about the show that came to Pittsburgh (Three Rivers Stadium) that he attended. He was battered, bruised, drunk, hungover, happy, sad, and more. All the Kousins gave some commentary on their thoughts, even Kousin Marvin who was all of 12-ish when it happened.

Calls from Jim From Irwin (or in this case, Beaver Falls, PA) and Bruno From South Africa.

Did you go to any of the tour stops? Did you want to?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Dateline – The Asylum. The Year… 1988.

1988 was still a good year for music. It was great not only in the hard rock but also in all music. We think it was pretty righteous. Some landmark albums came out that year, including Kousin Ray’s all-time fave, which happens to be Kousin Tim’s #2.

Some of those represent the biggest or perhaps most widely known in some artists’ careers. In addition to all the great music, not just hard rock but pop, alternative, and post-punk, the Kousins take on a snippet in time and talk about what 1988 meant to them. Not only is music on the menu for the Kousins, but they also talk about movies, television, sports, and even video games.

No “Now Listenings” because there was a lot of music to go through.

Calls from Bruno From Unwinterilylylyly South Africa, Jem From Alabama, and Jim From Irwin.

What were you doing in 1988? And what were you doing?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Kousin Ray was takin’ care o’bidness this week, so the Original Three Kousins decided to do a little XNL and LMK. Each Kousin did four songs, and it was a pretty good mix of tunes.

Calls from Bruno From Sunny South Africa, Jem From Alabama, Jim From Irwin, and Nick Provenzano.

What have you been listening to?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Kousin Marvin was missing this week, but he did send in his homework (in fact, he sent it in three weeks ago). The Kousins—sans KM—did the Asylum Top 10 Judas Priest Songs. Each Kousin made their top ten, which were combined and given a cumulative score, and the top ten (or, in this case, seventeen) were played and talked about. There were some surprises.

Calls from Bruno from Currently Wintery and Wet South Africa, Communal Steve, Jem From Alabama, two calls from Dave from Winston-Salem, Jim From Irwin, and Ze German.

No “Now Listenings.”

What are your top ten Priest songs?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

A few weeks ago, the Kousins did a retrospective of music (and other pop-culture things) from 1987, which focused on the hard rock genre (which can be found here). The Kousins will be visiting other years. But before we all move on, it was time to grade the top hard rock albums of 1987 (in their opinion).

The albums that were graded (from A+ to F) were (in no particular order):

Alice Cooper – Raise Your Fist and Yell
Def Leppard – Hysteria
Dio – Dream Evil
Guns N’ Roses – Appetite For Destruction
Helloween- Keeper of the Seven Keys, Part I
Kiss – Crazy Nights
Mötley Crüe – Girls, Girls, Girls
Whitesnake – Whitesnake
Rush- Hold Your Fire
White Lion – Pride
Anthrax – Among the Living
Frehley’s Comet – Frehley’s Comet
Aerosmith – Permanent Vacation

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Bruno from Reassuringly Toasty South Africa, and Jem From Alabama.

What grade would you have given these albums?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Kousin Ray is out this week with a stuffy head so Eugene B Sims of the Wheeler’s Dog Podcast is filling in. Actually, he was already scheduled to be on, whether KR was here or not. The Kousins are still riding the 1987 train and Eug suggested we listen to the debut album by E. Z .O which was produced by everyone’s favorite “Demon,” Gene Simmons. It also features songwriting by Jamie St. James of Black and Blue and Adam Mitchell who has collaborated with KISS in the past. So, it’s still in the “family.”

Calls from “Morgan Freeman,” “(the late) Stephen Hawking,” Dave Frey From Winston, Jem From Alabama, and Communal Steve from Podder Than Hell Podcast and I Remember Now: The Queensrÿche Podcast.

Have you heard the EZO album? If so, what did you think?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Here it is! #200. The TWO HUNDREDTH episode! Can you believe it!? The Kousins can’t.

Kousins Tim, Gary, Marvin, and Ray reminisce through the 200 episodes, looking back on the beginnings, the first calls of several mainstays over the years, additions to the “family,” funny or interesting moments, and so much more.

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, Bruno From Mostly Sunny South Africa, and Nick From California.

There were no “Now Listenings” because it was a flashback.

Thank you so much to all the cast of characters who have graced our podcast airwaves over the past four and a half years. We wouldn’t have been here without you. Thank you for the calls, the letters (or emails), texts, messages, and the numbers (you build our numbers, which is what any podcasters want). Here is to you and the Kousins going another 200 episodes (and more)!

What is your favorite memory of the show?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Dateline – The Asylum. The Year… 1989.

Kousin Tim graduated from high school. Kousin Ray finished his first year of college. Kousin Gary was a Junior in high school. Kousin Marvin was 13, so he could probably only think about girls.

Some of those represent the biggest, or perhaps the most widely known, moments in some artists’ careers. In addition to all the great music, not just hard rock but pop, alternative, and post-punk, the Kousins take on a snippet in time and talk about what 1989 meant to them. Not only is music on the menu for the Kousins, but they also talk about movies, television, sports, and even video games.

There was but one caller this week. Bruno from Windy South Africa was our lone contact.

What was going on in your life in 1989? What were you listening to? What were you playing, riding, driving, enjoying, or not enjoying?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Kousins are back together, and it’s time for a KISS topic in the rotation, and look! We have a new release. It’s the sixth in the “Off the Soundboard” series. This Off the Soundboard showcases their San Antonio, Texas stop on December 3, 1985, at HemisFair Arena. This is the first “Soundboard” release to feature Bruce Kulick on guitar. It’s a little fast in places and there are definitely some flubs, but that’s how you know it’s from the soundboard and not reconstructed in a studio. Apparently, there had been some protesters outside before the show. This was the era of the PMRC and “Satanic Panic” after all!

No “Now Listenings” this week.

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, and Dave From Winston-Salem.

Have you heard the latest “Soundboard?”

What did you think?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

We are celebrating Kousin Gary’s birthday on this episode! In honor of that, we invited his best friend (and sometimes adversary), Stuart Hill, to come on the show and have a Gladiator Showdown. This Showdown features a Roth-era Van Halen album vs. a Sammy Van Hagar album. Each combatant only told Kousin Tim what they were picking, leaving it a mystery as to which album either was pitting against their opponent. Kousin Gary picked 1984 (1984). Stuart picked 5150 (1986).

To reiterate the rules, the winner can either go first or defer their pick after a coin flip. The first selector chooses their “gladiator” or song for battle. After a short listen, the opponent chooses the song (or gladiator) to battle the round’s opening song. The other three Kousins then vote for the winner. The two pickers can also change their vote if they choose to. Whichever song has the most votes… wins. If there’s a tie, well, we’ll give that away, there wasn’t. Each combatant has two deferrals (outside the opening coin flip) they can use for the battle.

No “Now Listenings.”

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, Eugene B. Sims, Bruno From He’s Happy To Report Sunny Sweltering South Africa, and our new buddy Dave.

Would you defend 1984 or 5150?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Dateline – The Asylum. The Year… 1987.

1986 was hard to top. It was great not only in the hard rock but all music. So, how did 1987 do? We think it was pretty righteous. Some landmark albums came out that year.

Some of those represent the biggest or perhaps most widely known in some artists’ careers. In addition to all the great music, not just hard rock but pop, alternative, and post-punk, the Kousins take on a snippet in time and talk about what 1987 meant to them. Not only is music on the menu for the Kousins, but they also talk about movies, television, sports, and even video games.

No “Now Listenings” because there was a lot of music to go through.

Calls from Nick Provenzano from Northern California, Jem From Alabama, Jim From Irwin, and Bruno From Not-Sunny-At-All South Africa.

What were your favorite albums from 1987? What was going on with you in 1987?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

So, here it is. The Mt. Rushmore that Kousins Tim and Gary have been waiting for. The Mt. Rushmore of bass players. The instrument that holds the bottom down, tells you what chords you’ll hear, and gets the least respect in a band (behind keyboard players). While Kousin Marvin and Kousin Ray know which bassists they like and respect, it was time for schooling from the other two knuckleheads.

Each Kousin gave their “Now Listening.”

Calls from Nick Provenzano from Northern California and two more catch-up calls from new fan, Dave from Winston-Salem.

Who are your favorite bass players? Who would be on your Mt. Rushmore?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

We are without Kousin Ray, who is “on assignment,” this week. Because it was “random topic week,” Kousin Marvin picked both Alice in Chains EPs, Sap (1992) and Jar of Flies (1994) for the Kousins to imbibe on, listening party style.

A call from Eugene B Sims and two from a new caller, Dave From Winston-Salem.

All three Kousins gave their “Now Listenings.”

What are your thoughts on the two AIC EPs?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

For the KISS retrospective, and because tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, the Kousins decided to do a collective top 10 of their favorite KISS songs with the word “Love” in the title. 27 songs in the KISS Katalog had that word. There were 16 total votes.

The song rankings are real numbers given numeric values and then averaged out—the higher the value, the higher the overall ranking.  “1” equals 10. “2” equals 9. And so on.

Each Kousin gave a “Now Listening.”

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Nick From California, Jem From Alabama, and Bruno From Rainy South Africa.

What is your KISS “love” song ranking?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

A few weeks ago, the Kousins did a retrospective of music (and other pop-culture things) from 1986, which focused on the hard rock genre (which can be found here). The Kousins will be visiting other years. But before we all move on, it was time to grade the top hard rock albums of 1986 (in their opinion).

The albums that were graded (from A+ to F) were (in no particular order):

Alice Cooper – Constrictor
Bon Jovi – Slippery When Wet
Cinderella – Night Songs
David Lee Roth – Eat ‘Em and Smile
Iron Maiden – Somewhere in Time
Judas Priest – Turbo
Megadeth – Peace Sells… But Who’s Buying?
Metallica – Master of Puppets
Ozzy Osbourne – The Ultimate Sin
Queensrÿche – Rage for Order
Tesla – Mechanical Resonance
Van Halen – 5150
WASP – Inside Electric Circus
Poison – Look What the Cat Dragged In
Ratt – Dancing Undercover
Stryper – To Hell With the Devil
Slayer – Reign in Blood

Calls from Jim From Irwin and Jem From Alabama.

What would you have graded these albums?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Keeping with the 1986 theme, and with Kousin Ray out doing “mandatory fun,” the remaining Kousins threw a listening party for Cinderella’s 1986 debut, Night Songs. One Kousin admitted it wasn’t his thing, but did he dislike it? One Kousin absolutely loves it. One thinks it’s pretty cool.

All three Kousins gave “Now Listenings.”

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, and Bruno from South Africa, Where-Once-Again-It-Is-So-Hot-If-He-Goes-Outside-Barefooted-(Which Is His Wont)-He-Has-To-Hop-Around-Like-A-Leprechaun…

What are your thoughts on Night Songs? Do you have any faves?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Kousins all said the same thing, “When I listen to Ozzy, I love it. But, it’s just not a go-to for me.” That may not have been verbatim, but you get the gist. The Kousins decided to compile a list of their own Top 10 Ozzy songs and were tallied into a collective Top 10. The albums that had the ranked songs were Blizzard of Ozz (1980), Diary of a Madman (1981), Bark at the Moon (1983), The Ultimate Sin (1986), No Rest for the Wicked (1988), and No More Tears (1991). It wasn’t a conscious choice to stay within those boundaries; it was just where the cards fell. This was extra special because of Ozzy’s recent induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist (his second after the Sabbath induction).

All four Kousins gave “Now Listenings.”

Calls from Jim From Irwin and Bruno From South Africa Where It’s So Hot You Can’t Stand To Go Outside.

What would your Ozzy Top 10 be?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

It’s a combo/co-production episode of both Asylum AND I Remember Now: The Queensrÿche Podcast. In this episode, it’s some Queensrÿche on Queensrÿche gladiators. Kousin Ray (of both podcasts) defends the 1986 Queensrÿche classic, Rage For Order. In the other corner is “Communal” Steve Wright of IRN, who is defending the 1990 classic Empire.

To reiterate the rules: After a coin flip, the winner can either go first or defer their pick. The first selector chooses their “gladiator” or song for battle. After a short listen, the opponent chooses the song (or gladiator) to battle the round’s opening song. The other three Kousins then vote for the winner. The two pickers can also change their vote if they choose to. Whichever song has the most votes… wins. If there’s a tie, well, we’ll give that away, there wasn’t.

No “Now Listenings” since this episode had so many songs.

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Communal Steve, Bruno From Sweltering South Africa, and Jem From Alabama.

Would you defend Rage or Empire?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Also, check out Ray and Steve on the I Remember Now: The Queensrÿche Podcast and on X.

The Spinquisition was back with a whole new album to drop on the Kousins.

The premise is this: the Kousins put out a call for their dedicated listener base to send in album recommendations. As was put to them(ish):
“We will load a long list of albums into the randomizing wheel (we dubbed it ‘Takamata’) with the premise of the episodes being that we have to review an album, start to finish, listening party-style with no prep, no advance notice, and totally at random.”

And the listeners came through!  The albums can be any genre as long as they fall in the “Rock” category. Metal, hard rock, grunge, classic rock, current rock, southern rock, new wave, whatever! They can be great, they can suck… all suggestions were welcomed!

Takamata was spun and landed on the album Leave Home (1977) by Ramones. That album was, same as the last one, submitted by listener Eugene B Sims from the Wheeler’s Dog Podcast and Camel City Radio.

The Kousins spun it and gave an honest review of this album.

Calls from Jim from Irwin, Jem from Alabama, and Nick Provenzano, fresh home from England.

Have you heard this album? What did you think?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Such-N-Such Media Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Dateline – The Asylum. The Year… 1986.

1984 was a banger. 1985 was a letdown(ish). However, 1986 brought back the hard rock (and all music) scene to kick-ass levels.

There are some landmark albums from 1986. Some represent the biggest or perhaps most widely known in some artists’ careers. In addition to all the great music, not just hard rock but pop, alternative, and post-punk, the Kousins take on a snippet in time and talk about what 1986 meant to them. Not only is music on the menu for the Kousins, but they also talk about movies, television, sports, and even video games.

No “Now Listenings” because there was a lot of music to go through.

Calls from Nick Provenzano from Northern California, Jem From Alabama, and Jim From Irwin.

What was your favorite albums from 1986? What was going on with you in 1986?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Kousins are rockin’ ’round the Christmas Tree in this episode. Being the last Asylum episode of 2024, the Kousins talk about Christmas tunes, each giving two Xmas-based “Now Listenings” and a skimming of A Twisted Christmas (2006) from Twisted Sister.

Calls from Jem From Alabama, Jim From Irwin, Bruno From Sweltering South Africa, Eugene B Sims, and another call from Uncle Steve of Uncle Steve’s Mega Maiden Podcast.

What are your favorite Xmas songs, heavy or otherwise?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

Due to some technical difficulties (of which Kousin Tim is sparing you details), Kousin Tim had to pass off production duties to Kousin Gary. The Kousins thought it was time for another “Mount Rushmore” topic and this time it was lead guitarists. We may get to rhythm guitarists in the future, but for now, the spotlight takers, the shredders, the tappers… lead guitarists. Each Kousin went through their four picks with some accompanying music and why they thought they should be on the Rushmore list.

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, Nick Provenzano, and long-lost Uncle Steve of the Mega Maiden Zone podcast.

Each Kousin gave a “Now Listening.”

Who would be on your Mount Rushmore of lead guitarists?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

It started with Bruno From Sunny South Africa talking about an album that was a “bottom three” album or “top five” or whatever. Arbitrary rankings without context is hard. So, Kousin Tim called on all the “Asylum Inmates” to submit their own KISS Album Rankings. Unbeknownst to any of them, Kousin Tim didn’t really have a plan for the rankings, not unlike a dog chasing a car – what to do once you catch it? So, the Kousins decided to do a comparison and cumulative ranking based on the submissions by Jim From Irwin, Jem From Alabama, Nick Provenzano, Steve from Podder Than Hell/I Remember Now, Bruno, and Eugene B Sims. Kousin Marvin, Kousin Gary, and Kousin Ray didn’t know what any of the others had submitted. So, after the Inmates’ subs were tallied, Kousin Tim brought back the 2021 rankings from the Kousins and factored them in, as well. That gave a cumulative score of a total of 10 KISS fans. Out of 100, that’s 10%, so it’s a pretty good representation.

The albums ranked were: All studio albums from KISS (debut) through Monster, all four solo albums, all four “Alive” (Alive!, Alive II, Alive III, Alive IV – Symphony), Double Platinum, Killers, Smashes Thrashes & Hits, and Unplugged.

Calls by Jem From Alabama and Bruno From Sunny South Africa.

“Now Listenings” and “Let Me Know.”

How would you rank the 32 albums that the whole Asylum Family’s standings?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

While listening to the Paul Di’Anno albums a few weeks back, one of the Kousins mentioned grading Iron Maiden albums. So, that’s what the Kousins are doing. They are grading the Mark I (“the Di’Anno years,” Iron Maiden, Killers) and Mark II (“the Bruce years, part one,” Number of the Beast, Piece of Mind, Powerslave, Somewhere in Time, Seventh Son of a Seventh Son, No Prayer for the Dying, Fear of the Dark) versions of the band. The grades are cumulative averages given each Kousin’s individual grades. The grades can be from A+ to F.

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Nick Provenzano From Northern California, Bruno From (once again) Sunny South Africa, and Jem From Alabama.

No “Now Listenings” this week.

How would you grade the albums listed above? What’s your fave?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.

The Hard Rock community lost original Iron Maiden singer, Paul Di’Anno this past week after bouts with illness over the past several years. So, the Kousins listened through the first two Iron Maiden albums, the band DiAnno, and the Paul Di’Anno later year things, including selections from his last solo record that was released this past September.

Calls from Jim From Irwin, Communal Steve, Nick Provenzano From Northern California, and Jem From Alabama.

What are you favorite Paul Di’Anno moments in music?

Let us know by calling the TLDNetwork (KUZZ Army) hotline and leaving a message for the Kousins at 336-422-NUMB (6862).
We have Instagram and Twitter. We can’t ask for those “enjoy” things and for you to keep getting updates because Facebook doesn’t like that. Pfft…
This podcast was recorded in the Omniverus Studios at Liberty Plaza and connected via Zoom, sponsored by Top Leaf Cigar Lounge.