Laughing Monkey with Shawn Ratches – Details, episodes & analysis

Chris Reifert remains one of the most important and recognizable figures in death metal history. After first making a major mark as the drummer on Death’s Scream Bloody Gore, he went on to found Autopsy in 1987, helping shape a far filthier, darker, and more depraved branch of the genre. With Autopsy, Reifert became central to the band’s unmistakable identity, combining savage drumming, sickened vocal delivery, and a songwriting approach that fused raw death metal with doom-laden atmosphere. Records like Severed Survival and Mental Funeral helped establish Autopsy as one of the most influential acts in extreme metal, with a sound that was ugly, crawling, primitive, and completely their own.

What has always separated Reifert from many of his peers is that Autopsy never felt like a museum piece. Even after decades in underground metal, the band has continued to create new material with the same diseased spirit that made them legends in the first place. Rather than simply trading on early classics, Autopsy has kept pushing forward, releasing later albums that still carry the band’s signature rot, heaviness, and warped sense of horror. Reifert’s long-running dedication to the genre has made him not only a pioneer, but also one of death metal’s most enduring lifers.

In my interview with Chris Reifert, he also made it clear that Autopsy is not standing still. He said the band plans to start work on a new album toward the end of the year, a detail that should excite longtime fans who have followed the group’s relentless run of grotesque and punishing releases. That comment speaks to what has always defined Reifert’s career: even after helping build death metal from the ground up, he is still focused on creating the next wave of sickness rather than living in the past.

For an interview introduction, Chris came across exactly as fans would expect: grounded, direct, and still completely committed to the underground spirit that made Autopsy essential in the first place. His reflections on the band’s legacy, past records, and future plans show that Autopsy continues to operate with purpose, and with the same morbid heart that has kept them vital for so many years.

In this interview, I spoke with HansFyrste (vocals) and Erik “HaaN” Sæther (guitars) of Svarttjern, the Oslo black metal band they founded in 2003. The conversation digs into the band’s history, their evolution from early demos into full-length releases like Misanthropic Path of Madness, Dødsskrik, and Shame Is Just a Word, and the path that has kept Svarttjern a respected name in Norwegian black metal.

No filler. Just a proper talk with both men about the band, the records, and the road behind Svarttjern.

Thrash legends Whiplash are back, and a new record is on the way. On this episode, I’m joined by Tony Portaro of Whiplash to talk about the band’s long-running place in thrash metal, what still drives him creatively, and the upcoming album Thrashquake.

We get into the energy behind the new material, the mindset going into this release, and what fans can expect from Thrashquake. Tony also talks about the legacy of Whiplash, the band’s connection to old-school thrash, and what it means to keep pushing forward while staying true to that raw, aggressive sound the band is known for.

If you’re a fan of real, unapologetic thrash metal, this is one you’ll want to check out.

https://www.officialwhiplash.com

In this episode, Dweezil Zappa returns to talk about his groundbreaking album Automatic, a record that showcases his evolution as a guitarist, composer, and producer. The album dives deep into modern instrumental rock, blending fierce technical skill with melodic and emotional precision.Dweezil discusses the creative process behind Automatic — how he approached writing and arranging songs that balance complexity with groove. He opens up about tone crafting, gear experimentation, and the influences that pushed him toward a more cinematic and expressive sound.Throughout the conversation, Dweezil shares insight into how Automatic bridges his past and present — a reflection of both his Zappa lineage and his own artistic voice. From shredding guitar lines to lush textures, the album proves why he remains one of the most inventive players in rock.We also touch on his recording techniques, the evolution of his playing over the years, and what fans can expect from future projects. It’s a deep, honest look at how Automatic became one of his most personal and technically refined works to date.Follow Dweezil Zappa:Website – dweezilzappa.comInstagram – @dweezilzappaofficialYouTube – Dweezil Zappa

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.auFacebook – Rose Tattoo OfficialInstagram – @rosetattoobandofficial

Dweezil Zappa joins Laughingmonkeymusic for a deep dive into one of his most iconic works — “My Guitar Wants to Kill Your Mama.” In this episode, Dweezil breaks down the song’s origins, its connection to his father Frank Zappa’s legacy, and how he reimagined it for a new generation of guitar fans.From tone and technique to songwriting and production, Dweezil walks us through the creative choices that shaped the track and the mindset behind his unique guitar voice. The conversation moves beyond nostalgia, touching on how he continues to evolve as a player and composer while honoring the Zappa name.We also get into Dweezil’s approach to recording, live sound, and how he balances the technical precision of his playing with emotional depth. His insight into gear, arrangement, and artistic intent gives fans a rare behind-the-curtain look at what makes his music tick.If you love guitar-driven rock, musical storytelling, and creative freedom, this episode is a must-watch.Follow Dweezil Zappa:Website – dweezilzappa.comInstagram – @dweezilzappaofficialYouTube – Dweezil Zappa

Bill Fisher has carved a fascinating path through modern rock and prog. Based in Nottingham, he first caught attention leading Church of the Cosmic Skull, the seven-piece band known for its lush harmonies, cosmic themes, and a theatrical mix of heavy riffs and vintage melodies. The band’s blend of progressive rock and psychedelic soul quickly earned them a devoted international following and a strong live reputation.As a solo artist, Bill pushed even further. His debut Mass Hypnosis and the Dark Triad mixed proto-metal and prog with sharp lyrical wit, while his 2024 album How to Think Like a Billionaire revealed a more refined sound—part folk-prog, part cinematic rock, and fully his own. Each release shows his ability to cross genres without losing his melodic backbone or emotional punch.Fisher’s work dives deep into human behavior, belief, and ambition—all wrapped in irresistible guitar tones and rich arrangements. His songs aren’t just heard; they’re experienced, inviting listeners to question everything from power to perception while nodding their heads to unforgettable hooks.This episode explores Bill’s creative process, his evolution from band leader to solo visionary, and how he manages to balance humor, heaviness, and heart. We also touch on the live side of his art—where his cosmic energy truly comes alive.Watch, listen, and dive into the mind of one of the most inventive rock songwriters around.Follow Bill Fisher:Website – billfisher.netBandcamp – billfisher.bandcamp.comInstagram – @churchofthecosmicskullChurch of the Cosmic Skull: https://cosmicskull.orgBill Fisher solo releases: https://billfisher.netMassive Hassle: https://massivehassle.tvDystopian Future Movies: https://dystopianfuturemovies.com

Michael Sweet, frontman of Stryper, returns with a full slate of new music. The band’s upcoming Christmas album The Greatest Gift Of All blends classic holiday songs with original tracks in true Stryper style — heavy guitars, harmony vocals, and messages of hope and faith. It’s a bold take on Christmas music from one of rock’s most enduring and faithful voices.

In addition, Sweet is preparing a new solo album focused on worship and spiritual reflection. This project offers a more personal side of his songwriting, showing how his faith continues to shape both his music and his message. It marks another chapter in his evolution as an artist who balances conviction, creativity, and craftsmanship.

Stryper is also writing their next studio album for a 2026 release. Sweet promises it will honor their signature sound while adding new ideas and depth. After four decades in music, he continues to deliver powerful songs and positive energy to fans worldwide.

Official Links:

Michael Sweet — michaelsweet.com

Stryper — stryper.com

Instagram — instagram.com/michaelsweetofficial

Facebook — facebook.com/TheMichaelSweet

X / Twitter — twitter.com/michaelhsweet

YouTube — youtube.com/@MichaelSweetOfficial

adventurous streak led her to a new path that would shape her life.In 1995, at just 19, she joined The Dandy Warhols in Portland, Oregon, despite having minimal formal music training. Her bold personality and willingness to learn made her an essential part of the band, evolving from keyboardist to a full-fledged multi-instrumentalist handling bass, percussion, and vocals. Zia’s style and charisma became a cornerstone of The Dandy Warhols’ distinctive blend of psychedelic rock and alternative cool that helped define an era of modern rock.Outside of the Dandys, Zia has kept her creative energy flowing in multiple directions. As DJ Rescue, she’s lit up clubs around the world with eclectic sets that mirror her wide-ranging musical tastes. She also performs with her country project, Brush Prairie, blending heartfelt songwriting with her love of roots music. Away from the stage, she has found success as a Portland real-estate broker, bringing her sense of community and authenticity to a completely different world.In addition to music and real estate, Zia has long hosted her own radio show, where she dives into the songs and stories that inspire her. She continues to be an active voice for creativity, equality, and the environment—never afraid to speak her mind or champion causes close to her heart.With a new Dandy Warhols record on the horizon for 2026 and several personal projects in motion, Zia McCabe remains as vital and multifaceted as ever. She continues to balance art, activism, and real life with the same fearless energy that first put her on stage. Keep up with her world through instagram.com/ziamccabetwitter.com/ziamccabefacebook.com/ZiaMcCabeOfficial

lKory Clarke is best known as the outspoken frontman and creative force behind Warrior Soul, the politically charged, no-filter hard rock band that rose from New York City’s underground in the late ’80s. Clarke’s mission from the start was clear: shake the system and wake the people.Blending punk attitude with metal power, Clarke led Warrior Soul through a run of killer albums — Last Decade Dead Century, Drugs, God and the New Republic, and Salutations from the Ghetto Nation — all loaded with rebellion, wit, and that “acid punk” energy that made them stand out. His lyrics hit like manifestos, railing against greed, control, and media corruption, long before those themes were trendy again.Even after lineup changes and label battles, Clarke kept pushing forward, reviving Warrior Soul in the 2000s and continuing to release new music that’s just as raw and fearless as ever — including Rock ’N’ Roll Disease and Out on Bail. He’s also an accomplished painter and poet, channeling that same defiant spirit into every art form he touches.With his gravel-and-gasoline voice, anti-establishment fire, and refusal to ever play it safe, Kory Clarke stands as one of rock’s true lifers — a rebel artist who never stopped believing that music could still mean something.Official band website: warriorsoul.com  • Bandcamp (music & downloads): koryclarkewarriorsoul.bandcamp.com  • Instagram (art + updates): @kory_clarke_art