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In this episode of Metal Mayhem ROC, we’re joined by Bones from the UK heavy metal band Tailgunner. Bones joins us as the band prepare to release their second album, Midnight Blitz, and reflects on a period of rapid growth and forward momentum. We discuss how Tailgunner developed a working relationship with KK Downing, how that connection evolved, and what it was like having KK involved as producer on the new record. The conversation also covers Tailgunner’s role in the No Life ’Til Leather Metallica tribute album, including the exposure that came with kicking off the release, and how extensive touring helped sharpen the band both musically and professionally. Bones also looks back on discovering heavy metal growing up, the early influences that shaped his musical path, and what he’s seeing from audiences today as Tailgunner continue touring in the UK with Fozzy and prepare for major European festival dates this summer, including Download. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Tease 02:08 – Why they call him Bones 02:30 – When KK Downing noticed Tailgunner 04:32 – Why KK got involved 05:41 – KK Downing as a producer 07:38 – How touring shaped the second album 10:08 – New songs: War In Heaven, Midnight Blitz, Eulogy 14:46 – Opening the No Life ’Til Leather Metallica tribute 17:52 – Discovering heavy metal growing up 19:08 – Who’s in the crowd at Tailgunner shows 20:24 – Touring now and playing Download Festival Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Few artists get the opportunity to revisit their first solo album with the benefit of time and perspective. In this conversation, Warren Haynes reflects on the 30-year reissue of Tales Of Ordinary Madness and why revisiting the record mattered now. Haynes discusses defining his solo voice outside of his band work, choosing a metal-leaning label for a deeply personal album, and why the previously unreleased track “Tear Me Down” was left off the original release. He also reflects on Chuck Leavell’s role in shaping the record and how distance from the era allowed the album to be heard as originally intended. The conversation expands into writing “Desiree” for the TV series Landman, building theme-based live shows (including an all-Black Sabbath night in Atlanta), playing with Roger Glover and Deep Purple, honoring Bob Weir’s musical legacy, the current state of Gov’t Mule in 2026, and life outside music — including Warren’s growing appreciation for hockey. 00:00 Intro Tease03:20 Defining His Solo Voice on Tales Of Ordinary Madness05:48 Choosing a Metal Label for a Solo Album09:57 Why “Tear Me Down” Was Left Off the Original Release11:40 Chuck Leavell’s Role in Shaping the Record18:47 Writing “Desiree” for the TV Series Landman24:34 Theme-Based Live Shows & Playing Black Sabbath in Atlanta26:01 Playing with Roger Glover & Deep Purple26:37 Honoring Bob Weir’s Musical Legacy29:46 Gov’t Mule in 2026: Lineup, Health & Future Plans33:10 Life Outside Music & Discovering Hockey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this in-depth conversation, Darryl McDaniels sits down with Metal Walt to explore the heavy metal and hard rock roots that have been part of his musical identity since childhood. Growing up in New York City, DMC discovered rock and metal through radio, hearing bands like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest at a formative age. He explains how those sounds were already embedded in early hip-hop culture, from DJs digging through crates to the attitude and energy that shaped Run-DMC from the very beginning. The discussion revisits key moments such as “Rock Box” and “Walk This Way,” why rock was always part of Run-DMC’s DNA, and how those records opened creative doors that still matter today. DMC also talks about his decision to actively create rock and metal music himself, leading to projects like HellRaisers and his 2026 solo metal single “She Gets Me High.” Additional topics include NYC hardcore roots, playing with Agnostic Front, sharing stages with Sammy Hagar, opening for Lou Reed, and how creativity, authenticity, and curiosity continue to guide his work. 00:00 Show Open & Pre-Roll Tease 04:23 What Music Sounded Like in DMC’s House Growing Up 05:58 Discovering Rock on WABC and the First Metal Obsession (Black Sabbath) 09:11 Rock and Early Hip-Hop Culture — DJs, Crates, and Crossover 11:23 “Rock Box” and Why Rock Was Always in Run-DMC’s DNA 14:16 “Walk This Way” — History, Impact, and the Permission Moment 25:25 When DMC Decided to Start Making Rock Music 28:10 DMC and the HellRaisers — Live Reactions and Reality 31:25 Rock DNA Across Classic Run-DMC Songs (King of Rock, It’s Tricky, Mary, Mary, Why You Buggin’) 36:17 “She Gets Me High” — DMC’s Solo Metal Direction and Lineup 47:13 Hardcore Roots — Agnostic Front, NYC, and Underground Energy 56:22 Legacy, Creativity, and What DMC Is About Today 01:09:22 Wrap-Up & Where to Follow DMC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this in-depth interview, Scott “Wino” Weinrich of The Obsessed sits down with Metal Walt to discuss Ritual Arcana, a collaborative heavy project built around the creative vision of bassist and vocalist SharLee Lucky. Rather than another frontman-driven band, Ritual Arcana is shaped by SharLee’s songwriting, themes, and direction, with Wino contributing guitar and creative perspective. Wino talks openly about stepping back from lead vocals, focusing purely on guitar, and how trust and chemistry allowed the project to develop organically. The conversation explores the band’s doom and hard-rock foundations, atmosphere and symbolism, the “power of three” dynamic within the group, and what’s ahead following the debut release. It’s an honest discussion about collaboration, intention, and letting the music lead. This episode offers a thoughtful look at Ritual Arcana’s origins and creative process, straight from one of heavy music’s most respected voices. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JJ French has lived the full arc of American heavy metal — from club-level survival to global legacy. As guitarist, co-founder, and longtime strategist behind Twisted Sister, JJ French reflects on what it actually takes to last 50 years in a business designed to burn artists out. This is not a nostalgia interview. It is a candid conversation about discipline, reinvention, timing, and truth. JJ discusses the early definition of success, why the UK embraced Twisted Sister before the U.S., the cultural divide between punk and metal at CBGB, the PMRC hearings and their real-world consequences, lineup decisions for the current era, and why the band is returning in 2026 for select 50th-anniversary performances. The conversation also covers milestone performances — including post-9/11 New York City shows, Sweden Rock 2022, and the Morristown Twisted Christmas concert — along with reflections on legacy, music licensing, health, and perspective earned the hard way. Chapters are included for easy navigation.   CHAPTER MARKS 02:59 – Did You Ever Expect Twisted Sister to Last 50 Years? 04:03 – What “Success” Really Meant in the Early Years 06:00 – When the Band Shifted from Survival to the Long Game 12:12 – Was the Live Album Recorded at That Legendary Show? 13:09 – Why the UK Embraced Twisted Sister Before the U.S. 14:31 – Why Twisted Sister Was Never Accepted at CBGB 19:22 – Why the 2026 Twisted Sister 50th Anniversary Shows Are Happening 21:25 – Choosing the Lineup: Joey Franco & Russell Zuto Explained 22:15 – Why Mark Mendoza Isn’t Part of This Version 23:10 – Setlists Today: Deep Cuts or Greatest Hits? 29:57 – Why the Rochester Show Was Recorded for King Biscuit Flour Hour 33:00 – Reflections on 9/11 NYC, Sweden Rock 2022 & the Final U.S. Christmas Show 35:17 – PMRC 40 Years Later: JJ French Looks Back 38:09 – Are “We’re Not Gonna Take It” & “I Wanna Rock” the Most Licensed Metal Songs? 39:22 – What JJ French Hopes This Tour Adds to the Legacy   LINKS Official Twisted Sister Website https://twistedsister.com JJ French Official Website https://www.jayjayfrench.com Metal Mayhem ROC https://www.metalmayhemroc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alycen Rowse joins Metal Mayhem ROC for a wide-open, unfiltered conversation about life inside the rock ’n’ roll world — beyond the myths and stereotypes. Alycen shares firsthand stories from decades spent backstage and on the road, offering rare insight into groupie culture, navigating relationships, personal boundaries, and the realities behind rock’s most extreme moments. From encounters with David Lee Roth and James Hetfield to reflections involving Nikki Sixx, Robert Plant, and the tragic John Entwistle incident she witnessed firsthand, Alycen delivers a perspective few ever hear. She also discusses her book We've Got Tonight: The Life and Times of Notorious Groupie Alycen Rowse and her YouTube channel Cocktails & Rock Tales, where she continues preserving rock history in her own voice. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Alycen Rowse 05:05 Defining a Groupie 07:53 Navigating Relationships on the Road 10:02 Family Reactions and Personal Boundaries 12:42 Rock and Roll Rivalries 15:12 Memorable Encounters and Friendships 19:20 Life Beyond the Stage 22:24 Reflections on Aging Rock Stars 24:23 Intimate Rock Star Moments 30:46 Drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll 33:01 Rock and Roll Rivalries and Relationships 33:38 The John Entwistle Incident 37:31 AC/DC Concert Tragedy 39:23 The Book and Future Plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Sweet of STRYPER joins Metal Mayhem ROC for an inspiring and a wide-ranging conversation about the band’s new Christmas album, The Greatest Gift of All, the importance of keeping faith at the center of the season, and the powerful message behind STRYPER’s music. Michael also discusses recent health challenges, the band’s enduring brotherhood, and how new Generations of fans continue to discover STRYPER. He goes deeper into the creative process behind reimagining Christmas classics, writing new holiday originals, and preparing for STRYPER’s upcoming studio album and future touring plans. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the band, this episode delivers honesty, heart, and hope.   ⏱️ CHAPTERS (FINAL MEGAPHONE VERSION) 00:00 – Show Open & Vernomatic Intro 04:11 – Introduction to Michael Sweet 05:23 – STRYPER’s 40th Anniversary Reflections 06:23 – Brotherhood, Tension & Band Dynamics 07:29 – Michael Sweet’s Health Update 09:24 – New Generations Discovering STRYPER 13:32 – What Christmas Really Means to Michael 17:02 – Reimagining Classic Christmas Songs 24:34 – What’s Next: New STRYPER Music & Projects 26:04 – Final Thoughts & Holiday Wishes   🔗 LINKS Metal Mayhem ROC https://metalmayhemroc.com/ STRYPER Official Website https://stryper.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join The Vernomatic, Metal Walt, and Ian O’Rourke (Motorlord), and Bill “The Rager” for another chapter of The History of Metal. This time, they revisit 1999 and 2000 — a defining turning point when Nu-Metal and Post-Grunge ruled MTV, Napster upended the industry, and legendary icons stormed back into the spotlight. Hear how Slipknot, Korn, and Limp Bizkit reshaped the scene, why Woodstock ’99 went off the rails, and how Bruce Dickinson, Rob Halford, Dio, and Alice Cooper reignited traditional metal. From Metallica’s S&M experiment to Linkin Park’s Hybrid Theory explosion, this episode chronicles how heavy music survived Y2K — and came back louder than ever. CHAPTERS 00:00 Show Open and Introduction Segment – Vernomatic welcome, show setup, and call-to-action 04:23 Setting the Stage – Metal’s identity crisis at the turn of the millennium 08:10 Ozzfest Ignites a New Era – The rise of Nu-Metal and post-grunge power 10:06 Slipknot, Korn & Chaos – The new generation of heavy shocks the scene 12:00 Mainstream Invasion – Creed, Buckcherry & Filter bring hard rock to radio 20:07 Woodstock ’99 Erupts – The day metal was blamed for everything 26:12 ’99 in Review – Favorite albums and overlooked gems of the year 34:27 Y2K Awakening – Guitars, melody, and tradition return in 2000 38:11 Godsmack & Disturbed – New blood defines the sound of a decade 40:02 Women Take the Stage – Kitty, Otep & Lacuna Coil reshape heavy music 43:04 Linkin Park Explodes – Hybrid Theory and the next-gen crossover 46:34 Legends Reborn – Maiden’s Brave New World and Halford’s Resurrection 50:45 Dark Reinvention – Alice Cooper, Dio & Pantera reforge their sound 59:48 Mega Tours of 2000 – Ozzfest, Kiss Farewell & the summer of comebacks 64:56 Napster Changes Everything – Metallica vs. file sharing and fallout METAL MAYHEM ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Renowned rock historian, producer, DJ, and author Denny Somach joins Metal Mayhem ROC to explore the newly updated 2025 edition of his classic book Get the Led Out: How Led Zeppelin Became the Biggest Band in the World, originally released in 2012. Denny recounts Zeppelin’s journey from The New Yardbirds to worldwide domination, shares never-before-told stories from his decades in radio, and reveals how his infamous Howard Stern Show appearance reignited the “Stairway to Heaven” song-theft controversy. He discusses the Black Sabbath–Led Zeppelin jam rumor, the inside details of the Stairway lawsuit, and hints at unreleased Zeppelin live recordings that might finally see daylight. Somach also teases his latest project, Rock and Roll for Grown-Ups, and reflects on 50 years of chronicling rock history. 📘 Buy the updated book on Amazon 🌐 Visit RocknRoll4GrownUps.com 🎙️ Listen to The Rock Podcast with Denny Somach 💥 Explore MetalMayhemROC.com ⏱ FINAL 10 CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00:00 – Show Open & Episode Tease 00:02:47 – Guest Intro & Updated Book Setup 00:03:12 – Somach’s Career Journey (radio → syndication → Grammy, merch) 00:09:39 – Creating Get the Led Out (radio show → book deal) 00:13:41 – Origins: From The New Yardbirds to Led Zeppelin (Plant/Bonham, name) 00:20:25 – 2012 Book Impact & Why the 2025 Update 00:29:05 – Becoming Led Zeppelin + possible sequel rumors 00:30:00 – Sirius pitch & Howard Stern: the song-theft controversy ignites 00:38:14 – Inside the Stairway to Heaven lawsuit (trial, appeal, folio issue) 00:44:30 – Black Sabbath × Led Zeppelin jam rumor; new projects & where to buy Renowned rock historian, producer, DJ, and author Denny Somach joins Metal Mayhem ROC to explore the newly updated 2025 edition of his classic book Get the Led Out: How Led Zeppelin Became the Biggest Band in the World, originally released in 2012. Denny recounts Zeppelin’s journey from The New Yardbirds to worldwide domination, shares never-before-told stories from his decades in radio, and reveals how his infamous Howard Stern Show appearance reignited the “Stairway to Heaven” song-theft controversy. He discusses the Black Sabbath–Led Zeppelin jam rumor, the inside details of the Stairway lawsuit, and hints at unreleased Zeppelin live recordings that might finally see daylight. Somach also teases his latest project, Rock and Roll for Grown-Ups, and reflects on 50 years of chronicling rock history. 📘 Buy the updated book on Amazon 🌐 Visit RocknRoll4GrownUps.com 🎙️ Listen to The Rock Podcast with Denny Somach 💥 Explore MetalMayhemROC.com ⏱ FINAL 10 CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS 00:00:00 – Show Open & Episode Tease 00:02:47 – Guest Intro & Updated Book Setup 00:03:12 – Somach’s Career Journey (radio → syndication → Grammy, merch) 00:09:39 – Creating Get the Led Out (radio show → book deal) 00:13:41 – Origins: From The New Yardbirds to Led Zeppelin (Plant/Bonham, name) 00:20:25 – 2012 Book Impact & Why the 2025 Update 00:29:05 – Becoming Led Zeppelin + possible sequel rumors 00:30:00 – Sirius pitch & Howard Stern: the song-theft controversy ignites 00:38:14 – Inside the Stairway to Heaven lawsuit (trial, appeal, folio issue) 00:44:30 – Black Sabbath × Led Zeppelin jam rumor; new projects & where to buy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marco Mendoza, the seasoned rock bassist known for his work with Blue Murder, Thin Lizzy, Ted Nugent, Whitesnake, and as a solo artist, joins Metal Mayhem ROC to reflect on his remarkable career. He opens up about life on the road, the discipline of sobriety, and the powerful bonds he’s formed with icons like John Sykes, David Coverdale & Neil Schon. From global tours to personal transformation, Marco shares heartfelt stories, insights from decades in rock, and a glimpse into his current projects - an inspiring conversation with one of rock’s most passionate and enduring artists, and a true unsung hero of the music world. 00:00 — Open: Show intro & housekeeping 04:05 — Intro – Marco Mendoza (Blue Murder, Thin Lizzy) 05:32 — Work–Life Balance on the Road 09:17 — New Studio Work & Tour Updates (Iconic; Satriani/Vai) 14:02 — Solo Career: Challenges, DIY Logistics & Wins 27:18 — Gratitude & Sobriety — Marco’s Turning Point 39:31 — Early Breakthrough with Bill Ward (Sabbath) 46:00 — Meeting John Sykes — Forming a Bond 51:05 — Joining Thin Lizzy (Japan Reunion Era) 54:09 — John Sykes — Health, Privacy & Later Years 01:00:50 — Ted Nugent Era — Trio Power & Road Stories 01:02:20 — Whitesnake & Journey — Big Stages, Big Lessons 01:13:24 — Favorite Moments & What’s Next   Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Marco Mendoza Official Website: https://marcomendoza.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bobby ‘Blitz’ Ellsworth and producer Carl Canedy join Metal Mayhem ROC to celebrate 40 years of Overkill’s debut album, Feel The Fire. They revisit the early New Jersey club days, the Ithaca, NY recording sessions, and the DIY hustle that helped launch East Coast thrash. Hear behind-the-scenes stories about working with Johnny Z of Megaforce Records, the album’s iconic cover shoot, and early tours with Anthrax and Slayer — plus what’s next for both Overkill and The Rods. A powerful and nostalgic look back at the spark that lit Overkill’s unstoppable fire. CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Introduction to Bobby ‘Blitz’ Ellsworth and Carl Canedy 00:46 – Early Days and Formation of Overkill 01:37 – The Journey to Recording Feel the Fire 03:00 – Self-Promotion and Breakthrough 05:01 – Recording Challenges and Studio Stories 10:33 – Living Arrangements During Recording 14:29 – Reflecting on Iconic Tracks and Imagery 19:25 – The Iconic Album Cover 21:59 – The Mascot and Touring 25:28 – Reflecting on the Singing Style 27:44 – Band Chemistry and Songwriting 29:53 – Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 33:08 – Future Plans and New Projects LINKS: Metal Mayhem ROC:https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Overkill Official Website:https://wreckingcrew.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doro Pesch, the legendary Metal Queen and trailblazer for women in heavy metal, joins Metal Mayhem ROC for an electrifying conversation about her incredible career. From her early days with Warlock to her latest powerhouse release, Warriors of the Sea, Doro reflects on her lifelong dedication to metal, life on the road, her creative process, and her iconic collaborations with Gene Simmons, Lemmy Kilmister, and others. She also reveals the inspiration behind the new album’s nautical concept and gives fans an exclusive look at her innovative new vinyl edition — proof that after four decades, Doro’s passion for metal still burns brighter than ever! ·       00:00 – Introduction to Doro Pesch ·       02:27 – New Jersey Connections and Album Insights ·       03:52 – The Metal Spirit and Fan Dedication ·       05:35 – German Metal Scene and Personal Background ·       10:05 – Women in Metal and Industry Impact ·       13:56 – Recent Collaborations and Performances ·       16:29 – New Album and Unique Vinyl Release ·       25:36 – Touring Plans and Future Projects ·       27:49 – Personal Reflections and Closing Remarks 🎸 https://metalmayhemroc.com 🌊 https://doropesch.com LINKS: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From winning a songwriting mentorship at 19 to recording with Rush legend Alex Lifeson, Maiah Wynne has become one of modern rock’s most captivating new voices. In this Metal Mayhem ROC exclusive, she opens up about the making of Envy of None’s haunting new album Stygian Wavz, her creative bond with Lifeson and Andy Curran (Coney Hatch), and how the project evolved from a mentorship into a genre-bending collaboration. Maiah discusses the band’s cinematic sound, introspective lyrics, and the visual identity behind their videos and artwork — plus she shares her emotional reaction to the Rush 2026 reunion announcement. Chapters 00:00 – Show Open / Host Intro & Setup 02:11 – Maiah Wynne Introduction 03:05 – Formation of Envy of None 04:59 – Musical Style & Influences 07:16 – Vocal Dynamics & Recording Process 10:04 – Album Themes & Imagery 13:04 – Lyric Writing & Contributions 15:24 – Visual Identity & Music Videos 20:58 – Charitable Efforts & Latest Single 25:22 – Rush Reunion & Future Plans 27:52 – Solo Project Links Metal Mayhem ROC → https://metalmayhemroc.com Envy of None → https://envyofnone.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Flying Airplanes Legendary guitarist Steve Morse joins Metal Mayhem ROC to reflect on his storied 50-year career. With a rock résumé spanning Dixie Dregs, Kansas, Deep Purple, and the Steve Morse Band, he discusses his new album ‘Triangulation’ and upcoming tour plans. Steve shares engaging stories from his decades in music — from his time with Kansas and his 25-year global run with Deep Purple to his passion for flying airplanes. He also recalls performing with Luciano Pavarotti, reinterpreting Ozzy Osbourne songs with Living Loud, and opening for Rush in 1986. Throughout the conversation, Morse offers thoughtful insights into his creative process, collaborations, and inspirations across a lifetime in rock and roll. Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Steve Morse Official Website: https://stevemorse.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been five years since the passing of Eddie Van Halen — one of the most influential and groundbreaking guitarists of all time. In this special episode, radio veteran and musician Keith Roth joins hosts The Vernomatic and Metal Walt to celebrate Eddie’s life, music, and legacy. Keith shares his personal experiences meeting Eddie and Van Halen over the years, offering a rare, first-hand look at the man behind the guitar hero. Along the way, Vernomatic and Walt recall their own run-ins with Eddie, swapping stories about the first time they saw Van Halen live, the unforgettable riffs that changed their lives, and the moments that still give them chills today. Many fans also know Keith as the co-host of Rockstrap on the Pantheon Podcast Network, where he and Don Jamieson discuss their love of heavy metal with sports legends. Tonight’s conversation taps into that same passion — music, memory, and the spirit that keeps Eddie’s influence alive for generations. 🎸 Eddie Van Halen changed rock forever. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to his genius and a reminder of why his magic can never be replaced. 👉 Visit MetalMayhemROC.com to sign up for the newsletter and enter our Kings of Thrash ticket giveaway — October 21st at Photo City Music Hall in Rochester, NY. Two pairs of tickets are up for grabs. While you’re there, browse the merch store and catch up on recent episodes with James Rivera of Helstar, Ian Hill of Judas Priest, and Glenn Hughes of Deep Purple. 👉 Connect with Keith Roth: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/inthesquare/keith-roth 👉 Listen to Keith Roth’s Rockstrap Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rockstrap/id1757444948 ⏱ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Opening tribute: Eddie Van Halen, 5 years later 05:12 – Where were you when you heard Eddie died? 08:06 – Keith Roth’s first Van Halen memory at Macy’s 12:01 – First Van Halen concerts we’ll never forget 19:00 – Meeting David Lee Roth & Eddie Van Halen at the Parker Meridian 25:00 – Walt’s crazy Café Wha? 2012 story — listening from the street 27:18 – Vernomatic’s near misses with Eddie (Golden Girls & Buffalo softball game) 35:22 – What made Eddie Van Halen a once-in-a-century guitarist 43:00 – Why Eddie always put the song before the solo 48:00 – Keith Roth on Rockstrap, Dictators & keeping Eddie’s legacy alive Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices