Explore every episode of the podcast Laughing Monkey with Shawn Ratches

Evan Seinfeld’s story starts in Brooklyn, where Biohazard forged a raw crossover sound that brought hardcore, metal, and hip-hop energy into the same room. Decades later, the band remains a symbol of resilience, rebellion, and community—qualities that have defined Seinfeld’s life onstage and off.

In this podcast conversation, Seinfeld reflects on Biohazard’s return to creating new music and what it means to revisit that chemistry with the band’s classic lineup. He also discusses the discipline required to keep evolving creatively while honoring the intensity and truth that built the group’s legacy.

The discussion moves beyond music into what is ahead: a forthcoming book, mantorship, and his continued commitment to fitness and personal development. Seinfeld shares a practical message for anyone rebuilding themselves—show up consistently, stay accountable, and turn hard-earned experience into something that can help the next person.

Dylan Carlson formed Earth in Olympia, Washington, in 1989. Centered on Carlson’s guitar work, the band helped shape drone metal through slow tempos, sustained tones, heavy distortion, and repetition rather than traditional riffs or fast-playing. Their 1993 release, Earth 2: Special Low-Frequency Version, became a foundational record for the genre.

Following albums such as Phase 3: Thrones and Dominions and Pentastar: In the Style of Demons, Earth went on hiatus in the late 1990s. Carlson restarted the project in the early 2000s with drummer Adrienne Davies. This new era retained Earth’s unhurried approach but introduced cleaner tones and influences from country, folk, jazz, and Western film scores.

Records including Hex; Or Printing in the Infernal Method and The Bees Made Honey in the Lion’s Skull showed how Earth evolved while keeping its signature sense of weight and restraint. Across its history, the band has remained distinctive for creating intensity through atmosphere, space, and patience.

* **00:00** - Intro & Welcome

* **01:06** - Reputation, Character, and Creating Your Own Luck

* **05:16** - Artistic Curiosity & Avoiding Being Pigeonholed

* **07:06** - The New Anthrax Video & Fighting a Chair

* **10:00** - Collaborating with Director Don Argott

* **15:06** - Filming in the Swamps & On-Set Hazards

* **20:34** - Working with Bonnie "Prince" Billy

* **25:07** - Live Performance, Subtlety, and Ensemble Playing

* **30:37** - Taking a Break from Drumming & Finding the Spark Again

* **36:40** - Transitioning to Acting & Working with The Adams Family (*The Glorious Dead*)

* **46:00** - The "Victory Lap" Career Phase

* **48:03** - Studio Work & Reconnecting with Glenn Danzig

* **58:30** - Danzig's Advice: Solo Record & Directing Debut (*Jack Shack*)

* **1:02:18** - Following the Muse & Musical Tastes

* **1:04:00** - Outro & Wrapping Up

The first 7 minutes we ever spoke years 5 plus ago and the last 7 seven minutes we spoke recently ....... gonna miss you Angry my friend!

0:00 – Introduction & the Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome costume story

00:46 – George Miller’s film archives & doing stunts as Ironbar

03:48 – Wearing the Ironbar costume in everyday life

04:15 – True Stories piece: Choosing fatherhood & family over rock stardom

06:32 – Australian phone service issues & shark humor

07:40 – Remembering Robin Williams & his comedic genius

10:57 – The value of true friendship & Thomas Moore’s Care of the Soul

12:50 – Reflections on life, aging, and accepting change with grace

14:38 – Lighthearted closing thoughts & shark jokes

00:00 Intro and Catching Up

01:53 The Future of Rose Tattoo: Writing and Recording

03:43 Physical Media vs. Digital: Why Records Still Matter

04:19 Thrifting for Art: Oscar Wilde and the Renaissance

06:27 Perception and Art: Finding Detail in the Layers

11:34 Evolving Perspectives: Seeing the World with Different Eyes

14:14 All the World’s a Stage: Shakespeare and the Great Actors

19:46 Modern Society: Power Outages and Social Issues

21:05 Mad Max as Prophecy: Social Commentary in Film

23:01 Dystopian Cinema: A Clockwork Orange and Deprogramming

26:08 Classic Dystopia: Blade Runner and 12 Monkeys

27:56 Memory, Aging, and Life Reminders

29:10 Therapy, Future Shock, and Personal Reflection

31:56 The Tragic Story of Tom Duca and "Bound for Glory"

33:06 Final Year of the Band and Future Touring

34:25 A Tribute to the Genius of Robin Williams

39:22 The Value of Friendship and "Care of the Soul"

00:00 – 2026/2027 Tour Plans, Festivals & Retirement Discussion

03:00 – Changes in the Live Music Scene & Touring (Australia vs. US)

05:58 – Changing Crowds & Younger Generations at Rock Shows

08:26 – Road Stories: Far North Queensland Gigs & Routine

11:15 – Aging, Staying Grounded & Perspective Over Time

13:16 – Modern Media, General Knowledge & Politics

16:15 – Global Economy, Resources & Australian Mining

20:05 – Housing Challenges & Current Realities in Australia

22:55 – Broken Hill, the Outback & Mad Max Memories

26:33 – Alternative History, Nikola Tesla & Architecture

31:40 – Ancient Engineering, Mathematics & Pyramids

34:40 – Alvin Toffler’s Future Shock & Visionary Thinkers

36:45 – Neurodiversity, Autism & Eccentricity in History

43:10 – Famous Artists (Van Gogh, Monet) & the Genius/Struggle Dynamic

47:05 – Music as a Creative Sanctuary & Empathy in Art

51:25 – Wrap-Up & Sign-Off

Rock legend Angry Anderson of Rose Tattoo joins Laughingmonkeymusic to talk about his powerful new single “Hard Road” and what fans can expect from the band’s upcoming 2026 tour. Known for his raw energy, unmistakable voice, and hard-hitting attitude, Angry reflects on his decades in rock and the drive that keeps him going strong today.

We also talk about how touring has changed, what it’s like to perform for generations of fans, and how new material like “Hard Road” keeps the fire alive. With 2026 shaping up to be a big year, Rose Tattoo’s return to the stage promises to be a celebration of pure, unfiltered rock ’n’ roll.

Angry’s honesty, humor, and passion for the music shine through as he talks about legacy, inspiration, and what still fuels him after all these years. This is a conversation every rock fan will want to catch.

Follow Angry Anderson / Rose Tattoo:

Website – rosetattoo.com.au

Facebook – Rose Tattoo Official

Instagram – @rosetattoobandofficial

00:00 – Intro & catching up with Angry Anderson

01:00 – Social changes, media, and control

04:00 – Reading 1984, technology, and modern society

07:20 – Energy, resources, and historical innovations

11:25 – Water rights and natural resources

16:30 – Power grids, smart meters, and utility control

20:00 – Mad Max, classic cinema, and changing culture

22:30 – Global infrastructure and media narratives

30:05 – Standing your ground & resisting modernization

32:20 – Analog books vs. digital reading as we age

35:30 – Classic literature, sailing romance, and the quest for freedom

38:00 – New single "Hard Road" & upcoming album details

39:15 – Stevie Wright, The Easy beats & Albert Productions history

42:30 – Covering "Black Eyed Bruiser" & the meaning of "Hard Road"

45:00 – Classic blues influences & honoring musical roots

48:00 – Stevie Wright’s influence on Bon Scott

49:15 – Angry’s unique vocal technique and longevity

51:25 – Sammy Hagar, Van Halen, and singing from the soul

54:05 – Classic outlaw country and raw authenticity

56:05 – Commercialization in country music and awards

1:03:45 – The future of Rose Tattoo: Farewell tours vs. studio recording

1:05:25 – Band members & individual side projects

1:06:35 – Setting the record straight on AC/DC & Rose Tattoo gigs

1:11:40 – Wrapping up & looking ahead

In my latest interview with Angry Anderson, the legendary front man of Rose Tattoo, we covered everything from the band’s upcoming farewell tour to his unfiltered thoughts on music, politics, and the state of the world. With Rose Tattoo preparing to retire from touring in 2026, marking their 50th anniversary, Angry opened up about what this milestone means for him and the band. He reflected on the group’s raw beginnings, their impact on rock ‘n’ roll, and how their music has stood the test of time.

As we discussed their new single, he shared his excitement about keeping the spirit of Rose Tattoo alive while acknowledging that this track might be one of the last the band releases. Even though touring will come to an end, he hinted that new music or special projects could still be on the horizon, ensuring that their rebellious sound lives on.

But this wasn’t just a conversation about music—Angry had plenty to say about the world today. True to his nature, he gave unfiltered opinions on politics, freedom of speech, and the changing landscape of society. He’s never been one to hold back, and this interview was no exception. Whether talking about the state of rock music, the importance of authenticity in today’s industry, or his views on global and local issues, he proved once again why he’s one of the most outspoken and respected voices in Australian rock.

This interview wasn’t just about the end of an era for Rose Tattoo—it was a deep dive into the mind of a rock ‘n’ roll outlaw who has lived through it all. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the band or just discovering their music, this conversation offers an honest, passionate, and powerful look at what it means to be a rocker, a survivor, and a truth-teller in today’s world.

00:00 – Introduction & Toast to Dusty Hill (ZZ Top)

03:08 – Putting the List Together & Early Influences (Odetta, Pete Seeger)

06:30 – Vanilla Fudge & Early American Jam Bands

10:15 – Humble Pie (Performance Rockin' the Fillmore) & Steve Marriott

13:38 – The Young Rascals (Time Peace) & Raw Production

17:23 – The Doors, Led Zeppelin, & Room to Breathe in Music

21:10 – Mountain & the Power of "Nantucket Sleighride"

27:00 – Pure Rock & Roll Energy of the 1967–1973 Era

29:30 – The Magic of Listening Parties & Custom Sound Systems

32:22 – Passing Down Classic Music to the Next Generation

34:08 – Angry's Kids, Freeform Art, & Liam's Songwriting

39:15 – Showing Liam a Vinyl Record & Radiogram for the First Time

http://www.rosetattoo.com.au/

https://www.facebook.com/RoseTattoo/

00:00 – Welcome & Catching Up

01:00 – Friendship with Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome co-star Paul Larsen (Master Blaster) & plumbing together

06:14 – Perceptions of height, stage presence, and remembering loved ones

12:43 – Reflecting on aging, mortality, and approaching Rose Tattoo’s 50th anniversary / end of the band

17:40 – Life after Rose Tattoo & future musical plans (Faces-inspired cover band, R&B, Otis Redding)

21:47 – Thoughts on the Elvis movie, Baz Luhrmann, gospel roots, and Elvis’s artistic arc

37:25 – Monsters of Rock Cruise (MORC) experiences & respect among musician peers

41:17 – Favorite songs, songwriting appreciation, and The Police

45:00 – Meeting Air Supply & mutual appreciation for pop music and songwriting

48:00 – Musical influences, BoDeans, and Hall & Oates

51:30 – Stepping away from music vs. returning to instruments

http://www.rosetattoo.com.au/

00:00 – Intro & The Rolling Stones (Goats Head Soup, Exile on Main St.)

04:08 – Mick Taylor, Steve Marriott, Humble Pie & Peter Frampton

06:25 – Band chemistry & bringing new members into the mix

08:15 – Angry’s solo material, "Suddenly," and exploring vocal range

13:20 – The Jimi Hendrix Experience (Are You Experienced) & first hearing "Hey Joe"

19:00 – Hendrix's guitar dynamics ("The Wind Cries Mary" vs. "Foxy Lady")

20:00 – Pink Floyd, David Gilmour, and guitar tones

21:26 – Touring with Robin Trower, discussing Jeff Beck & Hendrix’s legacy

28:00 – Pink Floyd's evolution (The Dark Side of the Moon & Syd Barrett era)

31:27 – Steely Dan (Can't Buy a Thrill) & appreciating studio perfection

35:45 – Joe Cocker (Mad Dogs & Englishmen) & Leon Russell’s vision

40:00 – Van Morrison & the influence of Odetta

42:08 – Santana (Abraxas & Caravanserai) as musical therapy

44:06 – Deep Purple (Machine Head), Cream & witnessing Ritchie Blackmore live

45:30 – Mountain & Leslie West ("Nantucket Sleighride" story and impact)

51:10 – Vanilla Fudge, The Young Rascals & era-defining band names

54:00 – Blind Faith, Eric Clapton & the George Harrison / Pattie Boyd story

56:35 – Discussing The Beatles: Get Back documentary & band dynamics

1:04:20 – Revisiting Mountain and classic Beatles (Rubber Soul & Revolver)

1:06:50 – Future Rose Tattoo sound & staying true to blues roots

1:09:20 – Expanding the lineup with keyboards & wrap-up

http://www.rosetattoo.com.au/

00:00 – Introduction & Catching Up

01:00 – Launching the Angry Anderson (AA) Band

02:45 – Origins of "Realise Legalise" & Lobby Loyde

07:05 – Advocacy for Medicinal Cannabis & Hemp

11:20 – Cannabis Access & Legalisation (Australia vs. US)

15:47 – Australian Federation & State Laws

17:15 – Breaking Down Cannabis Stigmas & Media Perspectives

20:25 – Collaborating with Palace of the King & The New Sound

23:25 – Re-recording Classic Mushroom Records Albums

26:10 – Medical Cannabis Case Stories & Final Thoughts

28:15 – Wrap-Up & Closing

Angry Anderson has rocked and entertained us all for decades as the unequivocal front man of Rose Tattoo. He has torn up world stages with the voice of a working man’s Rod Stewart and one of Australia’s most abiding rock icons! Also known for his generous charity work, journalism, a stint at public office and having received numerous Awards including ARIA Hall of Fame (2006), Advance Australia Award (1986), Australian A.M. (1993) and the Special Merit Advance Australia Award (1995), he is very well versed on a number of different levels!

Now, his new project the Angry Anderson Band releases a first recorded offering, ‘Realise Legalise’ on November 19. Before you start thinking ‘what the’ there is a strong positive message Angry wants to portray with this rock track!

With an eye towards the future and a product, we should all be supporting ‘Realise Legalise’ stands firmly on this terra firma.

“Brothers and Sisters, we are living in strange and therefore exciting times, as to this, there can be no doubt! Depression, anxiety, and the fear of the future go hand in hand with the promise of a better world that we can all play a part in creating.

We are constantly bombarded with talk of sustainability, conservation, preservation, and a growing acceptance of a dependency on renewables!

Renewables! Just what are renewables? I hear voices asking. Some would call them gifts from God. Some would quite rightly refer to them as gifts from nature, the creational process, the provider, they are, put simply, that which comes from the natural realm. From Mother Nature herself! They are Earth, Wind, Water, and Sunshine! Truly gifts, from the Divine!

It is with this spirit of embracing that which is natural to further the comfort and well-being of humanity and in the spirit of true debate that I want to play a small part in opening the

conversation around the utilization of one of Nature's gifts, the genus Cannabis.

Launching a new solo project/band, l was energized to revisit and then continue a personal journey, crusade if you like, that started many years ago.

ln recent years I have been inspired by personal relationships with people from all around our homeland as they struggled to gain access to medicinal cannabis to relieve their own suffering or that of a loved one, also I came across a book written by a doctor, Dr. Teresa Towpik, which I urge all interested to seek out and read, her book, 'Introduction to Medicinal Cannabis, An Easy Guide For Doctors and Patients', enlightened and educated me to the amazing contribution medicinal cannabis does and can make when medically provided.

There are many more worthwhile uses for genus cannabis in the manufacturing sector which would gift us with products that are sustainable and therefore renewable, prime example it could, I’m advised, revolutionize the manufacture of paper, cardboard and, building materials and even replace plastic.

Why then are we afraid to open honest debate into Cannabis? A gift from the past that can benefit our future.

l, for one, am not afraid.” - Angry Anderson.

‘Realise Legalise’ is available on your favorite digital platforms on November 19.

https://www.facebook.com/Gary4Angry7Anderson

* **00:00** – Intro and celebrating the 100th Episode milestone

* **01:03** – *Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome*: Memories of the Ironbar character and George Miller's warehouse museum

* **04:53** – The "most rock and roll moment": Choosing to clean houses to be a present father for his kids

* **09:12** – Living in Australia: Shark fears and the "Jaws” mindset

* **10:18** – The surfing dolphin story: From a nightmare swell to a "Disney movie” moment

* **18:40** – Motorcycle talk: The zen of riding a Harley and city traffic survival

* **24:35** – A father's grief: Honoring his son Liam's memory and musical legacy

* **29:55** – Picking up the guitar and piano: A journey of healing and finding joy in "cowboy chords”

* **37:35** – Falling in love with music again: From disco eras to the magic of vinyl

* **43:22** – AC/DC connections: Mark Evans’ encyclopedic guitar knowledge and the early days in Melbourne

* **51:40** – The reality of fighting: Lessons from amateur boxing and martial arts

* **55:15** – Maintaining the voice: Why "using it or losing it" is the key to his iconic rasp

* **58:00** – The 36-hour panic drive: Escaping the 2020 lockdowns in Europe

* **1:02:25** – Catching up with Angus Young: Why Sammy Hagar was once a hypothetical choice for AC/DC

* **1:05:00** – The Untold Story: Why Rose Tattoo never toured with AC/DC in the early days

* **1:08:40** – The "Albert Family": Memories of the legendary Albert Productions stable

* **1:10:45** – The Angry Anderson Band: Carrying the 70s "Faces" swagger into a new project

* **1:15:00** – Re-recording the classics: Capturing the live studio vibe and the story behind “Rosetta”

* **1:21:00** – The final studio sessions with Harry Vanda: A magical moment of time travel

Skinlab is a San Francisco Bay Area heavy-metal band formed in 1994 by vocalist and bassist Steev Esquivel, guitarists Mike Roberts and Gary Wendt, and drummer Paul Hopkins. Emerging from the Bay Area’s thrash-metal tradition, the band built its identity around groove-heavy riffs, aggressive vocals, and a sound that resisted easy genre labels.

After attracting attention with early demos, Skinlab signed with Century Media and released its debut album, Bound, Gagged and Blindfolded, in 1997. The record established the band as a hard-hitting new presence in American metal. It was followed by the Eyesore EP in 1998 and Disembody: The New Flesh in 1999, both of which expanded Skinlab’s reputation for intense, rhythm-driven songwriting.

Lineup changes shaped the band’s next phase. Guitarists Steve “Snake” Green and Scott Sargeant joined after the departure of original members, while Glen Telford later entered the lineup. In 2002, Skinlab released ReVoltingRoom, produced by Steve Evetts, showing a somewhat broader and more melodic approach without losing its heaviness.

The group split in 2003, but returned in 2007. Their reunion led to The Scars Between Us in 2009. After another quieter period, Skinlab re-formed in 2016, with Esquivel and Hopkins again central to the lineup. The band released Venomous in 2019 and later returned with the single “Flesh Wounds,” continuing its legacy of uncompromising Bay Area metal.

* **00:00** – Touring Costs & Exploring Immersive Audio

* **02:28** – *Summer of '82: When Zappa Came to Sicily* Documentary

* **05:40** – *Via Zammata* & Filming in Palermo

* **09:22** – Outdoor Concert Acoustics & Live Sound

* **10:18** – Composing for TV (*The Ben Stiller Show*, *On the Spot*)

* **11:41** – Jamming "Crazy Train" with Jack Black

* **13:26** – *Pee-Wee's Playhouse* & Nickelodeon

* **14:45** – *What the Hell Was I Thinking?* Project Updates

* **16:32** – *Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure* ("Two Heads Are Better Than One") & *Cobra Kai*

* **17:06** – Recording *Back to the Beach* with Herbie Hancock & Terry Bozzio

* **18:50** – Playing "Watermelon Man" with Stevie Ray Vaughan

* **21:21** – Early Records & 80s Session Calls

* **25:10** – Making Production & TV Library Music (Extreme Music)

* **29:18** – Performing on *The Tonight Show* & with Alice Cooper

* **29:58** – Collaborating with Lisa Loeb for *Legally Blonde 2*

* **31:26** – *Ready to Rumble*, Britney Spears Cover & Diamond Dallas Page Theme

* **33:52** – Guest Solo on Steel Panther Record (Gear & Tone)

* **36:10** – Working on Don Johnson’s Album & the "Heartbeat" Video

* **39:52** – Recording on Winger’s Debut ("Purple Haze")

* **40:58** – Extreme's *Pornograffitti* ("He-Man Woman Hater")

* **42:12** – Solo on Spinal Tap's *Break Like the Wind* & Derek Smalls' "MRI"

* **45:08** – Evolution of Guitar Style & Improvisation Philosophy

* **49:22** – Approaching and Arranging Frank Zappa’s Music Authentically

* **52:07** – Playing on Weird Al’s Frank Zappa Style Parody

* **54:39** – Cleopatra Records Tributes (Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Van Halen, Ozzy Osbourne)

* **58:29** – Jamming with Blues Saraceno ("Chewing on Crayons" & the Survival Speaker)

Like , Subscribe & Comment as I have more behind the scenes stories and tips to share if more people are interested!

Stevie D says Buckcherry is already looking ahead, with the next album planned as part of the band’s schedule for next year. He outlines the steps involved in moving that record forward, from writing and early planning to getting into the studio and shaping the final songs. The focus is on keeping momentum going while making sure the material is ready before recording begins.

Outside of Buckcherry, Stevie D is also staying busy producing other projects, expanding his work behind the boards and helping develop music beyond his role as a guitarist. At the same time, he’s putting energy into recording D’Molls music, showing that project is part of his creative life as well.

The interview also touches on the tragic accident involving the band’s bus, adding a more serious note to the conversation. Stevie D acknowledges the incident as a difficult moment, set against an otherwise forward-looking discussion about new music, production work, and what’s coming next.

Cloven Hoof have spent decades building a legacy as one of the enduring names in British heavy metal, earning a reputation for power, character, and a sound that has remained unmistakably their own. Across changing eras, the band have continued to carry forward the spirit that first defined them, combining classic metal force with a strong sense of identity. That history gives every new release added weight, and it is exactly that sense of legacy that makes this next chapter stand out.

The new album, Never a Prophet in Your Own Land, arrives as a statement of purpose — one that reflects both experience and ambition. The title alone suggests conflict, perseverance, and the challenge of standing firm in the face of doubt, all themes that fit naturally within the world Cloven Hoof have built over the years. It feels like an album shaped by conviction, carrying the strength of the band’s past while pushing forward with renewed intent.

For longtime listeners, this release represents more than just another record in the catalogue. It is a continuation of the band’s story, rooted in the traditions that helped establish their name while still finding room to expand and evolve. There is a sense of momentum around Never a Prophet in Your Own Land — the sound of a band drawing on its foundations without simply looking backwards.

In this episode, we look at the history behind Cloven Hoof, the road that led to Never a Prophet in Your Own Land, and what this album means within the broader arc of the band’s career. We also explore how this release connects past and present, and why it stands as an important moment for a band that continues to hold its place in heavy metal with authority and purpose.

In this episode, we talk about Forbidden, the new album that marks an important turning point for the band. Built on the history, sound, and identity that have defined the group over the years, Forbidden reflects both where the band has been and where it is headed next. It is a record shaped by growth, change, and a clear sense of purpose.

We also discuss the arrival of the band’s new singer and what that means for this next chapter. Their voice brings a new energy and dimension to the music while staying true to the foundation that longtime listeners will recognize. Forbidden represents that balance between legacy and evolution, holding on to the core of the band while opening the door to something new.

The episode also looks ahead to the new tour and what fans can expect from this era live. More than just a new release, Forbidden signals the beginning of a new phase for the band — one that connects its history to its future in a way that feels natural, ambitious, and ready for the stage.

Dan Lilker is a highly respected figure in heavy music whose career has stretched across thrash metal, hardcore, crossover, and grindcore. He first came to wider attention as a founding member of Anthrax and performed on the band’s 1984 debut album, Fistful of Metal. Although his time in Anthrax was brief, it placed him at the beginning of a major moment in American thrash and helped establish his place in metal history.

He went on to build an even deeper legacy through Nuclear Assault, the band most closely linked to his name, and through Stormtroopers of Death, whose aggressive and sarcastic style became hugely influential in crossover metal. Lilker later expanded into grindcore with Brutal Truth, showing how easily he could move between different extremes of heavy music. Across the years, he has also been involved with many other bands and side projects, which has made him one of the most recognizable and versatile musicians in the underground scene.

What makes Dan Lilker stand out is not just the number of bands he has played in, but how often he has been part of important chapters in metal’s evolution. From early thrash to crossover and grindcore, his bass playing, songwriting, and personality have left a real mark on the genre. Even after stepping back from regular road touring, he remains an important and respected presence whose influence continues to be felt across the metal world.

Max Cavalera is one of metal’s most influential figures, first rising to prominence as the co-founder, vocalist, and rhythm guitarist of Sepultura. Emerging from Brazil in the 1980s, Sepultura helped reshape extreme metal with landmark albums like Beneath the Remains, Arise, Chaos A.D., and Roots, blending thrash, groove, punk, and tribal influences into a sound that reached far beyond the underground. Cavalera’s fierce delivery, percussive guitar style, and instinct for reinvention made him a defining voice in heavy music.

After leaving Sepultura in the mid-1990s, Cavalera launched Soulfly, a band that gave him room to push even further into groove, nu metal, hardcore, and world-music textures. Over the years, Soulfly has become a long-running creative outlet and touring force, with Max continuously evolving the lineup and sound while staying rooted in aggression, rhythm, and identity. His career has also included projects like Nailbomb, Cavalera Conspiracy, Killer Be Killed, and Go Ahead and Die, reinforcing his reputation as an artist who never stops moving.

In this interview, Cavalera reflects on life on the road, the enduring mission of Soulfly, and the gear and tuning choices that helped shape his signature heaviness — from Drop D riffing to the raw power of 4-string guitars. He also opens up about the idea of revisiting older material, including the growing conversation around re-recording classic Sepultura-era albums. The result is a wide-ranging discussion with one of metal’s true lifers: honest, loud, and deeply connected to the music that built his legacy.

https://www.soulfly.com

https://www.cavaleraconspiracy.net

Possessed emerged from the Bay Area metal underground in the early 1980s and quickly became one of the defining bands in the first wave of death metal. After early demos and a growing local reputation, the band released Seven Churches in 1985, a record widely recognized for helping shape the sound and language of the genre. They followed it with Beyond the Gates in 1986 and The Eyes of Horror in 1987 before the original run came to an end that same year.

Jeff Becerra’s story is inseparable from that legacy. After the band’s breakup and the shooting that left him paralyzed in 1989, Possessed remained an influential name in extreme metal, even during long periods of inactivity. When Becerra brought the band back in the 2000s, it marked the beginning of a new chapter that eventually led to Revelations of Oblivion in 2019, the first full-length Possessed album in more than three decades.

This interview picks up from there, looking both backward and forward. It focuses on Becerra’s friendship with Chuck Schuldiner, a relationship he has described in direct and personal terms, and on the current state of Possessed as he continues writing material for a new album. Together, those subjects frame a conversation about history, memory, and the next phase of one of death metal’s foundational bands.

Mortiis, the project of Norwegian musician Håvard Ellefsen, began in 1993 after his departure from Emperor, where he had been the band’s original bassist. From the start, Mortiis developed as a separate creative outlet, first centered on atmospheric, synth-based compositions that stood apart from the black metal scene he came out of. In the years that followed, the project expanded in both sound and form, moving through distinct phases that introduced darker electronic, industrial, and rock influences.

That progression has made Mortiis a career defined by change, with each period reflecting a different approach to mood, structure, and composition. Looking back across those shifts offers a way to talk not only about the development of the project, but also about the writing behind it: how ideas take shape, how methods evolve, and what connects the work across different eras. With that in mind, this interview turns to his career and songwriting process, and to the way his music has changed over time.

* **0:19** – Introduction of Paul Mazurkiewicz and his projects.

* **1:12** – Discussion on the origins of Paul's rock band, Umbilicus.

* **2:34** – Early projects: Path of Man and the search for a 70s-style rock singer.

* **6:15** – Reforming during the pandemic and starting fresh with new members.

* **10:30** – Details on the Umbilicus EP, *Ambiguous*.

* **12:11** – Paul's role as a drummer vs. his history with songwriting and guitar.

* **16:05** – Writing the Cannibal Corpse song "Destroyed Without a Trace" entirely on drums.

* **18:11** – Paul's first instrument: Learning guitar on an acoustic before switching to drums.

* **25:28** – The evolution of Paul's drumming style over 40 years.

* **31:30** – Why "Hammer Smashed Face" is the epitome of the Cannibal Corpse sound.

* **33:01** – The challenge of creating setlists with such a massive discography.

* **40:00** – Staying physically fit for extreme metal drumming as he gets older.

* **49:09** – Looking ahead to upcoming Slayer shows and the future of Cannibal Corpse.

Miljenko Matijevic joins the show for a one-on-one conversation about “Without You,” and his work with Niclas Engelin, the new collaborative album that’s on the way, his voice, and the realities of today’s music business. Best known as the founder and voice of Steelheart, Matijevic reflects on the songwriting, the performance side of singing, and how he approaches recording and longevity as a rock vocalist.

The interview also looks back at Steelheart’s history, from the band’s beginnings in Connecticut under the name Red Alert to their breakout with the 1990 debut Steelheart, followed by Tangled in Reins, the 1992 onstage accident that changed everything, and the later return of the band through new releases and touring. It’s a focused conversation with one of hard rock’s most distinctive singers about past chapters, current work, and the new album coming with Niclas Engelin.

Stephen Gibb, often known as Steve Gibb, is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter with a career rooted in hard rock and heavy metal. Born in London in 1973 and raised in Miami, he is the eldest son of Barry Gibb. Although he comes from a famous musical family, Stephen developed his own identity by pursuing a much heavier sound than the pop style long associated with the Bee Gees.

Throughout his career, Gibb has performed with several well-known rock and metal acts, including Black Label Society, Crowbar, Kingdom of Sorrow, and Saigon Kick. He has earned respect as a skilled and adaptable musician, contributing both onstage and in the studio. His work reflects a strong commitment to the rock and metal genres, where he has built a reputation based on musicianship rather than family connections.

In addition to his metal career, Gibb has also collaborated extensively with his father in The Barry Gibb Band, adding guitar, vocals, and songwriting support. This side of his career highlights his versatility and ability to move between very different musical styles. Stephen Gibb’s path is notable because he has managed to honor his family’s musical legacy while establishing himself as a credible artist in his own right.

alor Kand is a musician known for his work with Christian Death, where he became a central creative figure as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter. His presence helped define the band’s identity for decades, and he became closely associated with its intense sound, theatrical style, and confrontational themes. In addition to performing, he played a major role in shaping the group’s direction and keeping it active across multiple eras.

As an artist, Kand brought a forceful and dramatic approach to Christian Death’s music. His work often emphasized heavy guitars, dark atmosphere, and lyrics that drew on religion, power, violence, and social tension. The result was a sound that felt severe and deliberate, combining gothic imagery with a harder musical edge. His style gave the band a sense of scale and intensity that remained a consistent part of its character.

Beyond individual albums or performances, Valor Kand’s significance lies in the way he sustained Christian Death as an ongoing artistic project. He was not simply a performer within the group but one of its main drivers, responsible for much of its continuity, image, and output over time. His name remains tied to the band because of that long-term creative leadership and the strong imprint he left on its music.

* **00:00** - Intro and Welcome

* **00:35** - Meet Hardip (Lead Guitar) and Ben (Vocals)

* **00:57** - Band History and First Releases

* **02:22** - The Bond Between Band Members

* **04:13** - Influences and Finding Their Sound

* **06:58** - Playing Alongside Different Genres

* **10:37** - Working with Tony (VENOM INC ) on the New Album

* **15:15** - Album Release Details

* **17:42** - Upcoming Shows and Bloodstock Festival

* **21:28** - Advice for Young Bands and the Reality of Touring

* **23:39** - The Importance of Playing Live

* **28:44** - Outro and Farewell

!Jesse Hughes has described Eagles of Death Metal as a creative partnership built with Josh Homme from the start, and in interviews he has spoken openly about how closely they write together. Hughes said he and Homme write the songs together, while also calling Homme his best friend and praising the chance to work in a Joshua Homme production session.

On the gear side, Hughes’ documented live setup is very specific: he has used custom Maton guitars, including an MS500 with lightning-bolt styling and hotter-wound humbuckers, and paired them with Orange amps onstage. A recorded rig rundown says he used both an Orange Rockerverb 50 MKIII and an Orange Dual Dark 50, with Hughes explaining that placing amps on both sides of the drummer helped create a stereo sound live; the same feature also noted that he recorded direct with a vintage Mosrite Fuzzrite and an original Orange Roger Mayer Axis Fuzz.

* **00:00** – Introduction and welcome to Dave Rude from Tesla

* **00:22** – Discussing the new album and the "economy of albums" in rock today

* **01:28** – Why Tesla chooses to release singles versus full albums

* **02:17** – How the new covers record came together "by accident"

* **03:03** – Exploring the vocal-focused direction of the new album

* **04:48** – Balancing original sound with the essence of cover songs

* **06:03** – Upcoming tour details with Mötley Crüe and Extreme

* **07:44** – The experience of headlining versus playing larger package tours

* **11:13** – Rehearsing for the tour and updating the stage production

* **13:16** – Why classic bands feel the need to play the "hits"

* **15:56** – The challenge of making new music feel "classic" in the streaming era

* **19:09** – Dave Rude’s solo projects and performing on the Monsters of Rock Cruise

* **23:32** – Recording guitar parts in hotel rooms and dressing rooms on the road

* **28:24** – Closing remarks and tour dates summary

Paul Booth is an American tattoo artist and multidisciplinary dark surrealist from Boonton, New Jersey, whose career has spanned nearly four decades. After beginning his tattoo journey in the late 1980s through an apprenticeship in New Jersey, he developed a signature black-and-gray style centered on macabre, psychological, and surreal imagery. Rather than follow standard flash trends, Booth built his name through large custom pieces that explored horror, religion, trauma, and the darker side of human nature.

By the 1990s and 2000s, Booth had become one of the most influential names in tattooing, especially within metal and alternative culture. His work attracted high-profile musicians and performers, while his broader practice expanded into painting, sculpture, film, and music. He also earned recognition beyond tattoo culture, helping push tattooing toward wider acceptance as a serious art form.

A major part of Booth’s legacy is the world he built around Last Rites in New York, an immersive tattoo and gallery space that became iconic in dark art culture. In 2000 he co-founded the Art Fusion Experiment, bringing tattooers and fine artists together in collaborative work. His fine art later reached international exhibitions, including a solo show at the H.R. Giger Museum in 2011 and a major museum exhibition in Paris in 2014–2015. Although Last Rites closed in 2020 during the pandemic, Booth remains a defining figure in the crossover between tattooing, outsider art, and dark contemporary art

I spoke with Karl Agell about the story behind Legions of Doom, a band born from a heavy kind of history. In the aftermath of Eric Wagner’s passing, what could have remained only a tribute to the past slowly became something more active and alive. Karl talked about how the project grew out of grief, friendship, and unfinished creative momentum, with musicians choosing not to let that chapter simply close.

What makes Legions of Doom compelling is that it does not feel like a band built to imitate what came before. It carries the weight of that history, but it is not trapped by it. Karl made it clear that the group came together with real purpose: to honor the spirit of the music, to give shape to material that still deserved to be heard, and to move forward without pretending the past can be replaced.

There is a real sense of continuity in the band’s foundation. The people involved bring shared history, but also the kind of experience that lets them turn loss into creation. In talking with Karl, that seemed to be the heart of Legions of Doom — not just remembrance, but resolve. It is a band connected to legacy, but driven by the need to make something new out of what was left behind.

Davy Vain’s story starts before Vain the band ever broke out. He first built a name behind the scenes as a producer, then stepped forward as a frontman and songwriter when he formed Vain in the San Francisco Bay Area in 1986. After early buzz, club shows, and a growing reputation, the band signed with Island and released No Respect in 1989, an album that never became a huge chart smash but earned lasting respect for its raw, hungry sound. When label turmoil stalled the band in the early ’90s, Davy kept moving—briefly linking up with Steven Adler in Road Crew before reviving Vain and pushing on through years of lineup shifts, underground releases, and cult-level loyalty. Across every era, from Move On It and Fade to All Those Strangers, Enough Rope, Rolling With the Punches, and 2024’s Disintegrate Together, Davy has remained the engine of the band: its voice, songwriter, and constant creative center.

Boris T. is the online name of Boris Behara, a Croatian musician and YouTube creator best known for metal-focused videos and for leading the one-man project Tryglav. His channel originally started as “Tryglav Official” before expanding into broader content about extreme metal, music culture, and underground scenes.

As a musician, he is tied to black/death metal, with Tryglav described as a Croatian one-man project formed in 2018. His work blends aggressive black/death metal with horror-inspired themes, and he has also discussed side projects beyond Tryglav.

His video content mixes music, behind-the-scenes material, and metal travel/history features. Recent examples highlighted online include videos about Scandinavian black/death metal culture, including exhibitions, gravesites, and locations connected to bands such as Bathory, Mayhem, and Dissection.

https://ruthlesstalent.com/exclusive-creator-boris-t/

https://www.patreon.com/tryglav/about

https://tryglav.bandcamp.com/album/the-ritual

Wino is officially heading back into the studio to begin work on a new The Obsessed record, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for one of doom’s most enduring voices. With fresh material now taking shape, the upcoming album promises to carry forward the band’s signature weight, soul, and uncompromising spirit while opening the door to what comes next.

At the same time, Ritual Arcana is deep in the writing process, with new songs already underway. The creative momentum behind both projects reflects a period of renewed energy and focus, as Wino continues to push forward on multiple fronts with the same intensity and vision that have defined his work for decades.

There is also more on the horizon for fans of The Obsessed beyond the studio. Touring plans are currently in the works, with live dates announced with more coming. More details on the new record, additional music from Ritual Arcana, and upcoming tour news will be revealed soon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmfPMjLm5v8

https://www.wino-art.com/

https://www.theobsessedofficial.net/

https://www.ritualarcana.com/

Riley Pinkerton doesn't just front Castle Rat — she is the Rat Queen. Songwriter, guitarist, costume-maker, prop-builder, and self-appointed monarch of a medieval doom metal kingdom of her own design, Pinkerton has spent the last several years turning a Brooklyn doom band into one of the most theatrical and beloved acts in underground heavy music.

Castle Rat formed in 2019 and found their identity almost by accident, when a Halloween show at Saint Vitus turned into a full-blown costumed spectacle: Pinkerton as the Rat Queen, flanked by The Count, The Plague Doctor, and The Druid, doing battle onstage with the dreaded Rat Reaperess. The bit stuck. What followed was a fully realized fantasy world built on Sabbath-heavy riffs, Frazetta-painting visuals, and lore dense enough to include interdimensional time travel.

Their 2024 debut Into the Realm introduced the kingdom. Their 2025 follow-up The Bestiary — crowdfunded to its goal in 37 minutes — expanded it into a sprawling book of beasts, each track a creature, each creature a chapter. Beneath the swords and smoke, the show is secretly about something deeply human: Pinkerton's own death anxiety, exorcised nightly through a ritual in which the Queen dies and rises again, chanting "Now is forever in this realm" with the crowd.

In 2026, Castle Rat are touring North America with Dethklok and Amon Amarth, headed for Sonic Temple and Bloodstock Open Air, and quietly building a 12-foot rat puppet for the next chapter. Industry plant rumors aside — and Pinkerton finds them hilarious — Castle Rat remains stubbornly, gloriously DIY. Long live the Rat Queen.

Henry Rollins has spent the better part of a year buried in tape from October 1977 — a finished Cramps album, produced by Alex Chilton at Ardent Studios in Memphis, that sat on the shelf for nearly fifty years. It's coming out August 21 as Gravest Gravy on Vengeance Records.

Rollins and Ian MacKaye handled the restoration and mixing together through their RAM Prod. partnership. "I sent the mixes and my notes to Ian MacKaye, whose ears I trust more than anyone I know," Rollins says. MacKaye agreed with every call.

The two saw The Cramps together on April 20, 1979, at a small DC bar. "I've never recovered," Rollins says. "Ian was standing next to me.”

* **00:00** – A Student of Life and Music Librarian

* **00:45** – The Fragility and Preservation of the Past

* **02:00** – Restoring The Cramps' Lost Tapes with Ian MacKaye

* **03:11** – Curating the *Gravest Gravy* Release

* **04:44** – Unearthing More Unheard Cramps Material

* **05:48** – The Archival Mission: Saving History from the Garage

* **07:52** – Driving 34 Hours for the Love of the Game

* **08:52** – The Art of Paper Preservation and Mylar Forehead Tattoos

* **10:53** – Being a Trusted Steward of Musical History

* **11:53** – Upgrading Your Archival Game: Hiring the Experts

* **13:43** – Rescuing Tapes from Black Mold and Rotting Boxes

* **15:04** – Spending Weekends with Sponge Sticks and Toothbrushes

* **16:40** – Lessons from the Library of Congress

* **17:40** – Ian MacKaye’s Incredible Organization Skills

* **18:43** – Scoring Rare Punk Artwork at Auction

* **19:13** – Putting the Dinosaur Bones Together at Night

* **22:38** – A New Chapter of Friendship: Mixing with Ian

* **23:20** – Ian MacKaye as the "Lincoln Cold Sober Judge" of Production

* **25:12** – Recording *Lifetime* in England on a Budget

* **27:11** – Defining Success as Sustainability

* **27:46** – The Three-Year Process of Writing a New Book

* **30:45** – Moving Forward into "Old Ass Man” Projects

* **32:18** – Singing "Rise Above" with Cyndi Lauper

* **35:05** – Navigating Fitness and Aging

* **37:12** – Leaving a Trail: The Importance of Provenance

* **39:40** – Excitement for the *Gravest Gravy* Release

* **41:35** – Ian MacKaye’s "Fishbowl" Philosophy on Internet Comments

The final chapter of The Alarm carries a weight that goes far beyond music. Before his passing, Mike Peters completed what stands as a powerful final statement — an album shaped by perseverance, reflection, hope, and the same unbreakable spirit that defined his entire career.

For decades, Mike Peters was more than just the voice of The Alarm. He became a symbol of resilience inside and outside of music, openly facing cancer battles while continuing to create, perform, and inspire people around the world. His songs always carried themes of survival, belief, unity, and finding strength even in the darkest moments, and this final work feels deeply connected to that legacy.

Recently on Laughing Monkey, I had the privilege of speaking with Jules Peters, whose honesty and strength brought even deeper perspective to Mike’s journey. Our conversation explored not only the music itself, but the human side behind it — the challenges they faced together, the hope they continued to carry forward, and the way music became both a lifeline and a message to others going through difficult times.

What makes this final album especially meaningful is that it doesn’t feel like a goodbye built around sadness. Instead, it feels like Mike Peters doing what he always did best: turning struggle into connection and reminding listeners to keep moving forward no matter what life puts in front of them.

The Alarm’s music has always balanced passion, defiance, melody, and purpose, and this final release stands as both a continuation of that spirit and a lasting testament to Mike Peters’ impact on generations of listeners. Through every challenge, he never stopped creating, never stopped believing, and never stopped reaching people through music.

This conversation with Jules Peters is more than an interview — it’s a reflection on legacy, love, endurance, and the lasting power of music to give people hope when they need it most.

Former Hüsker Dü bassist Greg Norton returns to the spotlight with his hard-hitting new band UltraBomb, bringing punk rock energy, melodic aggression, and raw intensity back to the forefront. Featuring an all-star lineup of veteran underground musicians, UltraBomb is quickly making noise with new music and an expanding tour schedule that reconnects fans with the spirit and urgency that made Hüsker Dü legendary.

In this interview, Greg discusses the formation of UltraBomb, the band’s songwriting approach, upcoming releases, and life on the road again. We also dive into reflections on the lasting influence of Hüsker Dü, the evolution of punk and alternative music, and what still fuels his passion for creating loud, honest music decades later.

For fans of classic punk, underground rock history, and high-energy modern releases, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Legendary Voivod drummer Michel “Away” Langevin joins the show to discuss the band’s powerful new release, Symphoniqïne. In this interview, Away talks about the creative vision behind combining Voivod’s progressive metal sound with a full symphonic experience, revisiting the band’s classic material in a completely new way while still pushing forward artistically.

We also discuss the evolution of Voivod through the decades, the challenges of arranging complex metal compositions for orchestra, the visual concepts tied to the project, and what continues to drive one of metal’s most innovative and respected bands.

A must-watch conversation for longtime Voivod fans, progressive metal listeners, and anyone interested in the intersection of heavy music and orchestral experimentation.

Legendary psychedelic punk innovators Butthole Surfers are finally preparing to release their long-lost album After the Astronaut, a record originally shelved in 1998 following the commercial success of Electriclarryland. In a recent conversation with drummer King Coffey, he described the album as a return to the band’s experimental roots, driven by electronic textures, industrial rhythms, and the bizarre sonic chaos that made the group underground icons. Coffey explained that the band intentionally moved away from the alternative rock trends dominating radio at the time, instead diving deeper into psychedelic sound manipulation and digital experimentation. Nearly three decades later, the album is finally being released exactly as the band originally intended.  

Set for release on June 26, 2026 through Sunset Blvd. Records, After the Astronaut represents the first official studio release of new archival material from the band in over twenty years. Early singles including “Jet Fighter” and “Imbuya” capture the surreal, unhinged atmosphere that has always defined the Butthole Surfers’ sound. Coffey noted that making the record felt similar to the creative insanity surrounding their landmark 1987 album Locust Abortion Technician, with the band embracing every strange idea possible in the studio. The album’s release also follows renewed interest in the band after reunion performances and the documentary The Hole Truth and Nothing Butt, reintroducing a new generation to one of alternative rock’s most unpredictable and influential acts. 

Jared James Nichols continues to establish himself as one of modern rock’s most explosive guitar players with the upcoming release of his fourth studio album, Louder Than Fate. Scheduled for release on June 5, 2026 through Frontiers Mussic,The album showcases Nichols at his heaviest, rawest, and most emotionally driven point yet. Known for his aggressive pick-free playing style, thick blues-rock riffs, and soulful vocals, Nichols blends classic hard rock influences with a modern production approach that gives the new material a powerful edge. Early singles including “Pretend” and “Killing Time” highlight thunderous guitar tones, melodic hooks, and the gritty energy that has become his trademark.

Produced and mixed by Jay Ruston, Louder Than Fate appears to push Nichols deeper into the territory of vintage-inspired hard rock while still maintaining his blues foundation. Recent interviews surrounding the album also revealed Nichols’ switch to Marshall amplifiers after years with Blackstar, a tonal shift he says helped inspire the record’s massive sound and renewed creative energy. The album captures the intensity and authenticity that fans have come to expect from his live performances, while expanding his songwriting into darker and more cinematic territory. With a growing international audience, major touring plans, and a reputation as one of the standout guitarists of his generation, Nichols seems poised to make Louder Than Fate a defining release in his career.  

From the earliest chaos of the Norwegian black metal movement to some of the most experimental extreme music ever recorded, Attila Csihar remains one of the most unique and unsettling voices in heavy music history.

Best known for his work with Mayhem, Attila delivered the haunting vocals on the legendary album De Mysteriis Dom Sathanas — a release that helped define black metal forever. His style was never about conventional singing. It was ritualistic, theatrical, eerie, and completely unpredictable. Growls, chants, whispers, and otherworldly sounds became part of his signature approach.

Long before joining Mayhem permanently, Attila was already making underground waves with the Hungarian band Tormentor. Their cult classic album “Anno Domini” became highly influential in the early extreme metal scene and caught the attention of the Norwegian underground.

What separates Attila from many metal vocalists is his commitment to atmosphere and artistic experimentation. Beyond black metal, he has collaborated with artists across avant-garde, doom, industrial, and experimental music circles. His live performances often feel more like dark ceremonies than standard concerts.

Angry Anderson (born Gary Stephen Anderson on August 5, 1947, in Melbourne, Australia) is best known as the longtime lead vocalist of the Australian hard rock band Rose Tattoo, a group that became one of the defining acts of Australian pub rock alongside AC/DC and The Angels.

Rose Tattoo formed in Sydney in 1976 and built an international reputation with songs including “Bad Boy for Love,” “Rock ’n’ Roll Outlaw,” “Scarred for Life,” and “We Can’t Be Beaten.” Their early albums were produced by legendary Australian songwriting and production team Harry Vanda and George Young.

Anderson is instantly recognizable for his gravel-heavy voice, tattooed image, bald head, and aggressive stage presence. Despite his “Angry” nickname and outlaw image, he became widely respected in Australia for charity work and youth advocacy. In 1993 he was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for service to the community, particularly helping disadvantaged youth.

Outside of Rose Tattoo, Anderson had a successful solo career. His 1987 ballad “Suddenly” became an international hit after being featured during the wedding scene of Scott and Charlene on the Australian TV series Neighbours starring Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan. The song reached the Top 10 in several countries including the UK.

He also worked extensively in television and film, appearing in Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome alongside Mel Gibson and Tina Turner, where he played the character Ironbar Bassey.

Anderson has spoken openly about surviving abuse during childhood and difficult early life experiences. Over time he became heavily involved in charity and community causes, supporting youth homelessness programs, children’s hospitals, cancer awareness campaigns, mental health initiatives, and disaster relief projects.

Rose Tattoo were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2006, cementing their status as one of Australia’s most influential hard rock bands. Their music influenced later hard rock and punk acts internationally, including bands associated with the street rock and working-class rock scenes.

In recent years Anderson has continued touring with Rose Tattoo, including anniversary tours celebrating the band’s long history. Some scheduled performances in 2023 were postponed due to non-life-threatening health issues that required treatment and recovery time.

00:00 - The "Dangerous" Autobiography Geoff discusses his finished autobiography and why his lawyer thinks it's currently too "dangerous" and litigious to release.

00:30 - Welcome & Catching Up Shawn welcomes Geoff Tate back to the show and they recap his recent tour successes.

01:12 - Operation Mindcrime 3: A Labor of Love Geoff talks about the process of releasing the new album and the emotional connection fans have with the original trilogy.

02:54 - Writing for Yourself, Not the Labels A look into Geoff's creative philosophy—writing music for personal fulfillment rather than record company demands.

04:15 - Going Independent The freedom and challenges of self-financing the album without a record label.

06:23 - How Music Connection Changes Over Time Reflecting on how fans' tastes evolve and how albums like Promised Land were appreciated much later.

07:13 - Recording in 18 Different Countries Geoff shares the unique experience of recording in hotel rooms, tour buses, and even a castle in France.

09:30 - Developing the Character of Dr. X Exploring the "audio painting" of the new album and fleshing out the backstory of the mysterious Dr. X.

11:58 - The Influence of Music vs. Silence Geoff explains how deeply music affects him and why he often seeks out silence to hear his own thoughts.

14:21 - Operation Mindcrime: The Movie? The history of film options for the story and the possibility of a future visual series.

16:20 - Doubts in the Age of AI A deep dive into how AI and modern media are creating a "seed of doubt" regarding what is real.

20:25 - Autotune & Authenticity in Rock A discussion on the use of technology in vocal performances and the value of live authenticity.

23:34 - Pioneering Digital Recording in 1988 Geoff looks back at the original Mindcrime being one of the first digital recordings and how technology has evolved since.

26:39 - Touring & New Setlists Details on adding new songs to the live show and upcoming tour dates in America and Europe.

27:22 - Final Thoughts & Venting Shawn and Geoff wrap up the interview with a look at the modern world.

00:00 - Introduction & Song Selection for the Tour 01:19 - Welcome Back to Laughing Monkey 01:43 - Exploring Erik's "Perfect" Career Path 02:19 - Defining the Musical Identity of the New Solo Album 03:03 - Influences: From Karaoke Roots to Genre-Bending Covers 03:47 - The YouTube Channel as a Tool for Healing 04:52 - Challenging Vocals & The Whitney Houston Cover 05:51 - Soul-Searching for the Sound of Erik Grönwall 07:18 - Maintaining Identity While Collaborating with Others 08:04 - Working with the "Coolest" Michael Schenker 10:19 - Focusing on the Solo Journey 11:00 - Clarifying the Skid Row Departure & Health Recovery 13:10 - Moving Forward: Health Status & Touring Pressure 15:56 - Hopes for Skid Row’s Future Singer 16:24 - Building the Live Setlist: Originals vs. Covers 17:49 - Will there be songs from "The Gang's All Here"? 19:05 - Sharing the Story: Original Music & Upcoming Shows 20:42 - Introducing the New Solo Band Members 22:33 - The Strategy of Solo Musicians & Rotating Players 24:28 - Family Channel & Future YouTube Plans 24:45 - Working on the Second Album & Music Videos 26:42 - The Small but "Genius" Creative Team 28:32 - New Album "Bad Bones" Release & Final Thoughts

00:00 Introductions and the "Seven Degrees of Nick Oliveri" 01:00 Reconnecting and Performing with Queens of the Stone Age 05:00 New Projects: The Blast Record and Joining 13 08:20 Geography of Rock: From the Desert to the Swamp 09:40 Solo Work, Mondo Generator, and The Dwarves' New Record 11:45 The Creative Process and Balancing Multiple Bands 16:45 Life on the Road: Scheduling and "Road Dog" Mentality 21:30 High-Stress Gigs and Flying Across the World 23:15 Touring Australia and Performing Fan Favorites 25:30 Health Struggles: Touring with a Hernia 30:45 Overcoming Mistakes and Finding Improvement 34:45 Dealing with Media and Internet Comments 39:45 Perspective on Family and Personal Life 46:10 Songwriting as Therapy During Dark Times 51:30 Near-Death Experience in Hawaii 56:45 The Importance of Vinyl and Record Collections 01:01:30 The "Magic" in Guitars and Finding Your Sound 01:10:00 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Tour Dates

Alex Mitchell remains one of the true survivors of the late-’80s New York hard rock scene. As the founder and voice of Circus of Power, Mitchell helped build a band that mixed street-level biker culture, sleaze rock attitude, and bluesy hard rock into something distinctly their own. Formed in New York City in 1987, Circus of Power quickly developed a reputation for loud, dangerous live shows and albums that stood apart from the polished glam metal dominating MTV at the time. The band earned strong support from the rock press and toured with major acts including Black Sabbath during the “Tyr” era.

Now back living in New York, Mitchell is entering a new creative chapter with a forthcoming double album scheduled for release this summer. The new material reportedly reflects both the grit of the band’s early years and the perspective gained from decades in music. Mitchell has also been revisiting stories from the classic Sunset Strip and New York club days, including memories involving David Lee Roth and the larger-than-life rock scene that surrounded bands in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Those stories capture an era when clubs, biker bars, and backstage chaos were all part of everyday life for touring hard rock bands.

Despite lineup changes and long industry shifts, Circus of Power has continued to maintain its outlaw-rock identity. Mitchell remains the constant driving force behind the band, carrying forward the same raw energy that made their early records cult favorites among hard rock fans. Along with the upcoming album, the band also has several live appearances and shows being lined up, giving longtime fans another chance to experience the music in its natural environment — loud, unapologetic, and straight from the streets where Circus of Power first began.

Venom Inc. are entering a new chapter with a refreshed lineup, new energy, and new music in the works. This is not just about looking back at the history of Venom or replaying the past. The band is focused on what comes next.

Led by Tony “Demolition Man” Dolan, Venom Inc. continue to carry the blackened, aggressive, old-school metal sound that helped define generations of extreme music. The current lineup features Tony Dolan on bass and vocals, Curran “Beleth” Murphy on guitar, and Marc “JXN” Jackson on drums. The band’s last studio album, There’s Only Black, was released in 2022, and Dolan has confirmed that writing has been underway for the follow-up. He described the next phase as feeling like “a new beginning,” with demos, artwork, production plans, and new material already being worked on.  

The focus now is on the current band standing on its own. Venom Inc. still brings the fire, speed, darkness, and raw attitude fans expect, but the new material is about moving forward with this lineup as a real working band. Dolan has also spoken about wanting to record the current three-piece as a band, which gives the next release a different kind of importance: it will represent where Venom Inc. are now, not just where they came from.  

Fans can expect the classic Venom Inc. ingredients: heavy riffs, blackened atmosphere, punk-edged aggression, speed-metal attack, and that dirty, dangerous feeling that made the name matter in the first place. But this new era is also about proving that the band still has something fresh to say.

In this episode, we talk about the new lineup, upcoming music, writing plans, touring, the band’s legacy, and what fans can expect from Venom Inc. going forward.

I recently interviewed Joe and Chuck from Carnivore A.D. to talk about the band’s new EP, their current touring plans, and the creative process behind the new material. The conversation dug into how the songs came together, what drives the writing, and how the band balances honoring the brutal legacy of Carnivore while still pushing forward with its own identity. Joe and Chuck shared insight into the energy behind the new release, the chemistry within the band, and what fans can expect when they bring the songs to the stage.

We also went back into the early history of the band, discussing the roots of the Carnivore sound, the New York metal/hardcore attitude that shaped it, and how that history continues to influence Carnivore A.D. today. From songwriting stories to touring memories, the interview gives fans a closer look at the people behind the music and the mindset that keeps the band moving. It is a strong episode for anyone into heavy music, underground metal history, and the raw, confrontational sound that made Carnivore’s name stand out.