A-Sides

Formed in 1976, The Clash quickly spread their wings beyond their punk roots, releasing a string of experimental and influential albums, including 1979's London Calling. Multi-talented musician Ryan Waters returns to the podcast for Episode 239 to share his introduction to the band, a few noteworthy songs from their catalog, and how he aligns with the band's worldview. The Clash's music can be found on most streaming platforms or get their records from your favorite indie music store. You can find more information about Ryan Waters through his personal website here: https://www.ryanwatersmusic.com/ Huge thanks to Ryan for returning for another conversation on A-SIDES and thanks to all who listen!

Morgan Rose from Sevendust joined A-SIDES Episode 238 to talk about the band's new music along with their upcoming summer tour with Theory Of A Dead Man. However not every podcast goes according to my plans or notes I have taken beforehand. This is a conversation where Morgan Rose from Sevendust took me on a behind-the scenes history of the band's struggles. While fans like myself have supported the band through tickets and album sales, we never would have known that it doesn't always translate to a financially successful album. Morgan and the band have come out the other side and released their 15th album, ONE, on May 1st.  The band's album ONE can be streamed on your favorite app or purchased through Napalm Record's website. The "Dead Seven" Tour with Theory Of A Deadman kicks off this August and you can follow along with the band here. Huge thanks to Morgan and Sevendust, Kevin Chiaramonte, and Janus Management.

Mark Menghi has assembled an all-star tribute to Chris Cornell called King Ultramega. It is an all-consuming project for him as he is not only gathering the musicians, but also producing and planning the recordings, and contributing bass. Six songs have been released since Summer 2025's first release, Soundgarden's "Rusty Cage", with four more recordings on the horizon. All ten tracks in total will stretch the length of Chris Cornell's career, from Soundgarden to Temple Of The Dog and Audioslave. You can follow along with King Ultramega on social media, listen to these songs on your favorite streaming apps, or visit the website for merch and music videos at kingultramega.com. The first physical release has been a 12 inch single of "Rusty Cage" and "The Day I Tried To Live", which is available through Reigning Phoenix Music. Thanks to Mark Menghi for being a guest on Episode 237 of A-SIDES.

In their return appearance on A-SIDES, Austin and Zach from Cole Hollow join Episode 236 to share details on their mission for 2026. They have several summer shows booked along with new music ready to launch. The guys also share their thoughts on reaching new fans, "AI-generated music", a shared affection for pro-wrestling, and more! Thanks to Austin and Zach for coming back onto the podcast for another fun conversation.   To see Cole Hollow on the Peoria Riverfront with Buckcherry on June 28, purchase tickets here: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/60943284/buckcherry-with-cole-hollow-peoria-peoria-riverfront Cole Hollow will also be performing at Bloomington's Castle Theatre with Black Stone Cherry on July 17. Get tickets here: https://www.thecastletheatre.com/shows/black-stone-cherry-17-jul  

Episode 235 of A-SIDES celebrates the life and times of influential space traveler, guitarist, and plumber, Ace Frehley. Co-host Brent Stortzum, along with returning guests Corey Rozzoni, Patrick Kennison, and Kenny Wright share their affection for "The Space Ace", chance encounters with Ace, experiencing KISS live, collecting mementos and magazines, and even the origins of an Ace Frehley tribute band. Pop in your earbuds and prepare to blast off for planet Jendell in the Klaatu solar system for an out of this world episode of A-SIDES! Thanks Brent, Corey, Patrick, and Kenny!

For Episode 234, Joey Vera of Armored Saint joins the podcast for a brief discussion on the band's recording process. The band is also gearing up for a tour alongside Metal Church this fall with a few unique promotional appearances that may "pop up." Armored Saint's latest record, Emotion Factory Reset, can be found streaming on your favorite app or physically from Metal Blade Records. The band also has tour dates and merch listed on their website here. Thanks to Joey, Armored Saint, Earsplit Compound, and everyone who listens!

For this special full band interview, heavy Central Illinois rock band heaving. joins A-SIDES for Episode 233. Following the release of a new single titled "Faces On You" onto Bandcamp and all music streaming platforms on May 20th, the band discusses their origins, favorite bands and artists in their formative years, setting themselves apart, and even what they hope to accomplish throughout 2026. Thanks to Morgan, Bowie, Trevor and Tyler for the fun conversation. Check out their music and merch on Bandcamp and follow them on their social media pages for new music and show dates! 

On May 29th, 2026, Devin Townsend will release The Moth through Inside Out Music. For Episode 232, Devin joins A-SIDES to discuss this latest release, capturing moments of creativity, and maintaining your mental and physical health. It was an absolute thrill to hear his process for creating music and even witnessing a moment of his creativity at work. Huge thanks to Devin, Kevin Chiaramonte, Inside Out Music, and everyone who listens. You can listen to The Moth on May 29th on all streaming platforms or purchase it in multiple formats via Inside Out Music. He also has his own Patreon with exclusive videos, podcast links, and more!

Immersing yourself into the world of a new rock band is an amazing feeling; it's almost like how an archeologist must feel like when uncovering a new species of dinosaur or an explorer discovering uncharted territory. That is how it felt leading up to this interview with Cody Bowles from progressive rock band, Crown Lands! Cody is the drummer and vocalist of this epic duo that is set to release their new album, Apocalypse, on May 15th. Cody joins Episode 231 of A-SIDES to explain the backstory to this new album, the ongoing lore within the music of Crown Lands, working alongside a few of their heroes, and growing as an artist. Huge thanks to Cody for being a guest on A-SIDES, to Kevin Chiramonte, and all who listen! You can follow Crown Lands online and order 'Apocalypse' through Inside Out Music.

March 3rd, 1986 marked the 40th anniversary of the release of Metallica's third studio album and thrash metal classic, Master Of Puppets! Three voices joined the podcast to share their own stories with Metallica, from their introduction, to seeing the band live! Hear from co-host Brent Stortzum; returning guest and LA-based musician Yohai Portal; along with notable metal afficionado Paul Tincher. Thanks to all who listen and to all three that contributed to Episode 230 of A-SIDES.

One amazing thing about the accessibility digital music is discovering bands you may have overlooked years ago. Ugly Kid Joe is one of those bands, which flew under the radar until their 2023 US tour with Fozzy. Since then, they've been a constant presence in my digital library. Record producer and band member Dave Fortman joined A-SIDES Episode 229 to share stories from recording and touring with Ugly Kid Joe, producing several albums for bands like Evanescence and Godsmack, and more! Ugly Kid Joe has recently announced tour dates for 2026, which can be found at the website along with merch and band news! Thanks for listening to Episode 229 of A-SIDES!

Corrosion of Conformity will release their long-awaited album Good God/Baad Man on April 3rd, 2026. With the new release being a double album of music, this episode is a double-length podcast featuring two interviews with the band! Founding member Woody Weatherman shares details on recording the album, traveling and touring with fellow metal bands, and how he spends his downtime at home. New bassist Bobby Landgraf shares his history in the metal genre, making connections that led him to becoming part of COC, and the music that inspires him.  Corrosion of Conformity's new album can be pre-ordered through Nuclear Blast Records' website. You can also follow the band for tour dates and merch on their own website. Huge thanks to Corrosion of Conformity and their team for this latest episode. Thanks for listening!

KT Tunstall will be performing in Central Illinois on March 23rd 2026 at Bradley University's Dingeldine Music Center in Peoria, IL. She spoke about this upcoming performance, her "Top Tips" on Instagram, and even the recent 20th anniversary release of her album, Eye To The Telescope. You can purchase tickets to KT's performance in Peoria at the event page on Event Brite. If you are unable to attend the Peoria concert, she will be on tour throughout 2026 with O.A.R. and later Brandi Carlile. Find tour dates, merch, and more at her website. KT is even very active on her Instagram and social media. Thank you for listening to this latest episode of A-SIDES and huge thanks to KT Tunstall and 99.9 WWCT.

In November 2025 Soundgarden was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. It feels fitting to invite longtime friend and guitarist Corey Rozzoni back onto the podcast for an episode about Soundgarden, Chris Cornell, and the legacy they have carved into the world of rock music. While this is not a complete history of one of Seattle's greatest bands, we did share our favorite era of Soundgarden, highlighted select tracks, and even touched on Cornell's later work with Audioslave. Thanks to Corey for joining Episode 226 of A-SIDES. You can explore more about Soundgarden on their official webpage with links to music, merch, and more. Thanks for listening!

One of my absolute favorite guests on A-SIDES over the last 5 years of interviews has been LiV Warfield. Not only does she call Peoria, IL her hometown but she will returning on April 17th, 2026 for "LiV'N It Up", a special performance alongside the Peoria Symphony Orchestra. LiV shares details on this special show, performing on NBC's America's Got Talent, musical collaborations, and more! You can purchase tickets for the April 17th performance by visiting the Peoria Symphony Orchestra's website. Huge thanks to LiV for taking time away from her busy schedule to guest on A-SIDES Episode 225 and thanks to all who listen!

One of the earliest friends of the podcast, John Massaglia, returns to A-SIDES for his 6th appearance on Episode 224. John discusses the newest release called Wombat Alchemy from his band The Truth Council, his son performing lead vocals on a new song, making plans for 2026, and even several of his bucket list vacation destinations.  If you are near Central Illinois, come enjoy The Truth Council's live performance at Oz'z Bar in Creve Coeur, IL on March 28th. Wombat Alchemy will be for sale! You can also discover the band's music on Apple Music and Spotify. Thanks for listening to this latest episode of A-SIDES with John Massaglia!

One my favorite venues to attend shows has been at the Castle Theatre in Central Illinois. From seeing shows with friends and family, to even meeting Jimmy Eat World on the curb outside the venue, the list of memories made is long. Jason Williams has been the longtime talent buyer at the Castle, helping to bring artists to Central Illinois like Jason Isbell, The Struts, Dorothy, and recent rock bands like The Hu and Mammoth. Thanks to Jason for taking time to share stories on Episode 223 of A-SIDES! If you're in Central Illinois, keep up with the Castle Theatre's vast array of shows on their website.

2025 saw not only the release of Sons of Silver's first full-length album, Runaway Emotions, but they even book-ended the year with a live EP titled 7 Cities 7 Songs. While the band is currently completing more music, Brina Kabler took time away to record this latest episode of A-SIDES. After starting with a full tour of the band's rehearsal space and headquarters, she shared how she made a huge leap of faith to follow music as a career to become a studio engineer. This has served her well as she shapes the band's sound in the studio and continues to try new recording techniques. Brina has also shaped the visual aspect of the band with a keen eye for visual arts. Huge thanks to Brina for joining A-SIDES for Episode 222! You can follow Sons of Silver on their website and even find their official bootlegs on Bandcamp, which were recorded during their 2025 tour with Myles Kennedy. Sons of Silver's music can be found on your favorite streaming app and even their own downloadable app! And don't hesitate to follow the band on social media as they stay active! Thanks for listening!

Last summer, Gus Rios released the Cold Slither album, which turned a fictional GI Joe cartoon group into a living, breathing entity! Gus' confidence as a songwriter and front man has taken shape with his next musical project, called Union Black. In A-SIDES Episode 221, he explains his growth as an artist, taking Cold Slither from the screen to your stereo, making honest music, re-imagining the music of Type O Negative and Depeche Mode, and even working alongside his musical icons. You can listen to Union Black's existing music, Songs In The Key Of Black, on Bandcamp with forthcoming music later in 2026. If you're a fan of dark lyrics, 80's synth, and metal riffs, this is right up your alley! Cold Slither's album and merch can be found through Reigning Phoenix Music and also on your favorite streaming app. Huge thanks to Gus Rios for returning to A-SIDES to share details on Union Black and thanks to all who listen!

On March 21, 1976, Thin Lizzy released their 6th studio album, Jailbreak, which will celebrate it's 50th anniversary in 2026. You can still hear their anthem "The Boys Are Back In Town" on your local classic rock station or nightly on any tavern's jukebox. Three past guests returned to A-SIDES for Episode 220 to share their memories and reflect on the band's legacy. Ryan Waters, songwriter/guitarist with LiV Warfield, and touring member of Heart Kenny Wright, drummer and singer of Nashville's The Great Affairs Freddy Herrera, current bassist for Everclear and The Exies Thanks to Ryan, Kenny, and Freddy for contributing to this episode, to Thin Lizzy for their enduring legacy, and thanks to all who listen!

Michigan-based recording artist Sammy Boller has recently recorded and released his solo EP titled Midnight Garden. He joined the podcast for Episode 219 to discuss his guitar playing, several of his favorite Michigan musicians, touring the world, the best pizza, and even practicing yoga. You can find Sammy's music and tour dates on his website which also includes link to purchase merch and more! His music can also be streamed on your favorite streaming app and his Bandcamp page. Thanks to Sammy for the interview, Kevin Chiaramonte, and everyone who listens! Thanks for another amazing year of A-SIDES.

James And The Cold Gun is an emerging rock band from the UK, described as "South Wales' Loudest", and they are set to perform in Central Illinois on December 4, 2025. Whether you live in Central IL or not, James And The Cold Gun are a band that should be on your music radar as they have a hard-driving, straight up rock n roll sound. Frontman James Joseph joined Episode 218 ahead of the show to talk about trying to eat right on tour, his connections to 90's rock legends, and even Christmas music.  You can follow James And The Cold Gun on Bandcamp, their website for merch and tour dates, and even stream them on your favorite app. Thanks to James, the entire band, and WWCT FM for setting up this interview. Tickets for the Dec 4 concert can be found on WWCT's website.

Episode 217 features a fun conversation with Mike Leon, the brand new bassist for CKY. They just released a new single "Can't Stop Running", which preceded a UK tour and an announcement of a slot performing at the 2026 edition of Sonic Temple. Mike chats about discovering CKY, trying out different instruments in his youth, tattoos, favorite bands, and more!  Huge thanks to Mike for the conversation, CKY, and Shane Handel. You can get CKY merch at their website and follow the band on social media!

November 7th 2025 was the release date for the long-awaited studio album from Finger Eleven titled Last Night On Earth. Guitarist Rick Jackett joined A-SIDES to share his songwriting process, along with the many influences of the band, living on a farm, performing on stage, and even a shared connection with Our Lady Peace and King's X. Huge thanks to Rick for joining this episode and a big thank you to the entire Finger Eleven crew for the numerous hours of music they've created. You can follow along with the band through their website for tour dates and merch, including the latest record. Thanks to everyone who listens!

Episode 190 started a mini-series within A-SIDES called "Everybody Loves Cheap Trick." In this next edition, 5 more guests share their interactions, experiences, and memories of one of the most beloved rock n roll bands, Cheap Trick. Episode 215 features- Matt Gabs, guitarist with Ravagers, formerly with Biters Jerry Gaskill, drummer for the rock trio known as King's X Matt Andersen, bassist with Nashville's The Great Affairs Jamie Markley, Illinois talk and rock radio personality Acey Slade, musician and owner of New Jersey-based Catfight Coffee Thanks to all the guests for sharing their stories and time with A-SIDES and thanks to everyone who listens!

In just under a year's time, this is Sons Of Silver's third appearance on A-SIDES. Episode 180 featured band members Peter and Adam previewing their album Runaway Emotions and their winter tour supporting Myles Kennedy. Episode 192 featured Peter and Kevin recapping their tour and the feedback they received along the way. This time, for Episode 214, Peter makes a solo appearance to detail the band's new fan club app which includes tons of audio and video content; their new live EP 7 Cities 7 Songs; and even their live bootlegs collection on Bandcamp. Peter also shares a few of his favorite live albums and previews what's next for the band. You can find their official bootlegs from various shows of 2024 and 2025 on their Bandcamp page: https://sonsofsilver.bandcamp.com/ The band's website also has links to their fan club, band merch, and more! Thanks to Peter, Dana, and the entire Sons Of Silver crew!

JC, from the international powerhouse trio Danko Jones, joined A-SIDES for Episode 213. With only a limited time to record over a 30-minute lunch break, we packed in as much as we could- from touring with their musical heroes, to recording new music, and staying physically fit. Huge thanks to JC for taking time away to share his stories on this latest episode! The power trio known as Danko Jones is set to release their latest album, Leo Rising, on November 21, 2025. You can order physical copies through their label Reigning Phoenix/Perception music through their webstore. The band also has tour dates, links to Danko's podcast, and news updates on their own website. Thanks for listening and following along!

With its origins as a New York-based tribute to King Diamond, THEM has shed that skin and re-established the band as a storytelling power metal band with 4 albums under their belt. The band's fifth release, titled Psychedelic Enigma, releases on October 24th, 2025. Troy Norr (aka "KK Fossor" in the band's lore) shares his history within the heavy metal scene on Long Island, creating the band's concepts, initially connecting with guitarist Markus Ullrich, and sets the stage for the band's latest concept album. Thanks to Troy for chatting with A-SIDES for Episode 212. You can find THEM on Bandcamp for music and merch items: https://them6.bandcamp.com/ Or purchase from their label Steamhammer SPV: https://store.spv.de/collections/them   Their music is also available on your favorite streaming platform!

Last December Sam Spade joined A-SIDES for Episode 181, and this year he returns for Episode 211! Sam shares details from being on the road for the first half of 2025, how he stays in shape, his drive and determination to be the best at what he does, his classic rock heroes, and more! Huge thanks to Sam for returning to the podcast and thanks to everyone who listens! You can follow The Midnight Devils on Facebook and Instagram and also get merch and music through their website here. Be ready for more touring from The Devils in '25 and beyond!

Frontman for multiple heavy metal acts, John Bush is spending the latter half of 2025 celebrating the 40th anniversary of Armored Saint's album, Delirious Nomad, and 3 shows performing songs from his time with Anthrax. John joins A-SIDES to share details on these tours, several pivotal shows in his formative years, how he stays in shape for touring, and the music that fuels his life.  Huge thanks to John for taking the time to be featured on Episode 210, Liz for scheduling this conversation, Brent Stortzum, and everyone who listens! You can follow along with Armored Saint online for tour dates, merch, and more on their website. John, along with his other band Category 7, will be performing three shows this December celebrating his tenure with Anthrax. Ticket information is available through their website. You'll also find John's many bands on your favorite streaming app!

James Black guested on A-SIDES' Episode 164 last summer ahead of the band's run on Creed's Summer of '99 tour, which also featured the band 3 Doors Down. He shared stories on collecting records from film score composers such as John Barry, and a genre titled "exotica", which includes the works of Les Baxter. For Episode 209, James returns to share more on his music collecting habits and details on the forthcoming studio album from Finger Eleven, titled Last Night On Earth. Ahead of the album's Nov 7th release date, the band has released 3 singles and will embark on a North American tour starting this fall. You can find their tour dates and pre-order the record on their website here. Huge thanks to James for returning to A-SIDES! And thanks to all who listen!    

Episode 193 featured guest Jared Jones from the Nashville-based rock band, Emerge. This latest discussion with Jared picks up right where we left off last spring, diving back into shared musical tastes like Disturbed and Sevendust, his experiences with Revis, listeners' music habits, fall activities, and radio station contests! Huge thanks to Jared for making another appearance on A-SIDES for Episode 208, and thanks to all who listen! Extra shout-out to Disturbed and the other musicians being honored by the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 in Joliet, IL this September! Emerge's music is available on your favorite app and you can follow them on social media at their Facebook page or Instagram at @emerge_music!

A recurring theme throughout the 6-year lifespan of A-SIDES has been the beloved Illinois rock band Cheap Trick. Episode 190 titled, "Everybody Loves Cheap Trick", was packed with 6 different guests sharing their origin stories and love for Cheap Trick, so this anniversary episode of the podcast seemed like a perfect opportunity for a follow-up. Episode 207 features returning guests, familiar voices, and more! Brent Stortzum, co-host/musician/Illinois resident Kenny Wright, drummer and co-vocalist in The Great Affairs Billy Baker, drum builder/drummer of Valentine Saloon Dug Pinnick, bassist for King's X Patrick Kennison, of Heaven Below and Lita Ford Huge thanks to all 5 friends of the podcast who contributed and shared their passion for Cheap Trick. Thanks to all the friends, guests, and listeners of the last 6 years of A-SIDES, too!

Episode 206 of A-SIDES features a conversation with musician and artist Emily Burton, who performs with the all-female Black Sabbath - Black Sabbitch, and California-based rock act, Fireball Ministry. Fireball Ministry scorched the Earth with great albums like 2005's Their Rock Is Not Our Rock, which is now pressed on vinyl through Ripple Music. She shares a few details on the band's formation, growing up in the Midwest, creating artwork, and more! Check out Black Sabbitch online for merch and live shows at their website. You can also find Fireball Ministry's music through your favorite streaming app and grab the fast-selling vinyl records through their Bandcamp page.  Huge thanks to Emily Burton and everyone who listens!

Following the release of Heaven Below's latest album The Majestic Twelve, Nikki Stringfield returns to A-SIDES to share a few details behind the creation of the album. She also discusses the recent tour with her husband Patrick Kennison which featured them as an opening act for Marty Friedman; life at home between tours; the impact and influence of Ozzy Osbourne; and performing with The Iron Maidens. For information on Nikki's tour schedule with The Iron Maidens, visit their website here. You can also purchase her solo albums and music with Heaven Below on her own website. Huge thanks to Nikki for making her third appearance on A-SIDES, as well as thanks to Patrick Kennison, and you for listening to this newest episode!

Dropping on August 22nd is the fifth album from Dinosaur Pile-Up, titled I've Felt Better. Matt Bigland joined A-SIDES for Episode 204 to share a few details behind the new songs, meeting and working with acclaimed songwriter Scott Stevens, his favorite bands from the 90's, and what cassette tape was played repeatedly on a cross-country road-trip. Huge thanks to Matt for being a guest on this latest episode of A-SIDES. Before I've Felt Better is released, you can check out their catalog on your favorite streaming platform, preview the band's 5 newest songs, and follow along with them on their website. Thanks for listening!  

After releasing their full-length debut in 2023 and sharing stages with acts like The Struts and Sublime With Rome, King Falcon is back with new single, "Plastic Crown." Michael Rubin from King Falcon shares his musical history, from listening to his parents' music, playing endless hours of Guitar Hero, to cutting his teeth as part of School Of Rock. Michael even shares his theory on the songs of Steely Dan, which can be broken down into three distinct categories. It was an absolute blast having Michael as a guest on Episode 203 of A-SIDES. You can follow along with King Falcon on their website, social media @kingfalconband, and stream their music on your favorite app. Thanks for listening!

July 5th 2025 was a monumental day for rock music as it was the farewell concert for Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath titled "Back To The Beginning." From heavy metal icons such as Metallica to 21st century rock acts like Rival Sons, all performed and paid tribute to the founders of heavy metal with unique covers in addition to their own music. Zak Bellante from Death Comes Lifting was there to experience it all first-hand and he shares that experience on Episode 202 of A-SIDES. Huge thanks to Zak for returning to the podcast to discuss that day in Birmingham, thanks to everyone who listens, and most importantly thanks to Ozzy and Sabbath for the innumerable hours of joy spent listening to their music. You can find Zak online at Death Comes Lifting, which features online fitness classes, health and wellness programs, and an amazing supply of merch!

In 2015, album release dates shifted from Tuesday to Fridays as the new standard to optimize music consumption on streaming platforms. Always one to buck trends, Heaven Below is releasing their new album, The Majestic Twelve, on Tuesday July 22, 2025. Patrick Kennison makes his fourth appearance on A-SIDES to share details on the album's creation, talks about the recent tour with Marty Friedman, drawing inspiration from movies, and even provides a teaser on upcoming releases from Heaven Below. Huge thanks to Patrick Kennison for making another appearance on the podcast and thanks to all who listen! You can find Heaven Below on Facebook, purchase the new record here, or stream the album digitally on all platforms starting tomorrow!

DETROIT - known for fast cars, loud rock n roll, pizza, and the soulful "Motown" sound. Episode 200 of A-SIDES takes a look at the bands and artists of this Midwest mecca, from Bob Seger to Iggy Pop, Grand Funk Railroad, and even lesser known acts like Death and Sonic's Rendezvous Band. Paul Tincher makes a return appearance on the podcast to share his favorite bands, venues, and stories of the city, as well as how we uncovered our favorites and their connections to other musicians we love.  Thanks to Paul Tincher for returning to A-SIDES, a huge thanks to all of our guests, listeners, the friends we've made through this podcast, and most of all the musicians who have given us endless hours of joy and episode topics!

In a 1985 episode of the original run of the GI-JOE: A Real American Hero cartoon series, COBRA created the fictional rock band, Cold Slither, to perform music with subliminal messages to control the masses. Forty years later, HASBRO and RPM have brought this band to life, with the Cold Slither album dropping on July 25, 2025. Episode 199 of A-SIDES features a conversation Gus Rios, who has brought Cold Slither to life. He shares his love for GI Joe, his path to music, maintaining mental health, and why he was the perfect fit for the Cold Slither project. If you want to read Gus' article in Decibel, you'll find it here. If you're in the San Diego area, you can see Gus bring Cold Slither to life before your eyes at Brick By Brick on the eve of the album's release. You can also find the Cold Slither record through the RPM label.  Huge thanks to Gus Rios, RPM, and everyone who listens! Yo Joe!  

An emerging hub for all things entertainment is Las Vegas, which is also the home base for heavy rock band Velvet Chains. Hot on the heels of their new single "Ghost In The Shell", bassist and founder Nils Goldschmidt shares his musical journey from violin to bass, sharing stages in South America with his heroes of rock music, his many tattoos, and more in this latest episode of A-SIDES! You can find Velvet Chains online for tour updates and merch at www.velvetchains.com. Huge thanks to Nils for the conversation, PFA and the entire Velvet Chains team, and everyone who listens!

Buckcherry dropped their 11th studio album, Roar Like Thunder, on June 13th on Round Hill Records. Frontman Josh Todd was not superstitious about the release date but he did share a few details behind the production of Roar Like Thunder, working with different producers over the years, newer fans embracing the band, and record collecting with his son on Episode 197 of A-SIDES. Buckcherry has a slammed summer full of tour dates, so catch them on the road performing cuts from the new album as well as all their hits. Follow them at www.buckcherry.com Thanks to Josh Todd for the conversation and to everyone who listens!

Coheed and Cambria recently released their eleventh studio album, Vaxis III: The Father Of Make Believe, which features a wide spectrum of blazing guitars in "Blind Side Sonny" to the introspective lyrics of "Goodbye, Sunshine." Frontman and songwriter Claudio Sanchez joined A-SIDES for Episode 196 to share details on the creation of the new album, as well as the origins of the band, gaining self-confidence, and even his son's progress in learning music.  Huge thanks to Claudio Sanchez, Virgin Records, 99.9 WWCT, and to everyone who listens! You can follow the band on tour by visiting their website and you'll find their music on your favorite streaming platform.

Since 2020, Jazz Sabbath has released 3 albums and toured worldwide; however, many don't realize that their music was stolen from them by the members of Black Sabbath. According to legend, long-suffering "Milton Keynes" had the music stolen from him and it has only recently seen the light of day. The real-world story goes that Adam Wakeman has re-imagined the music of Black Sabbath under the banner of Jazz Sabbath, recently releasing his third album in the fall of 2024, titled The 1968 Tapes. He not only shares stories on shaping the arrangements on The 1968 Tapes, but also a funny story from a tour with Ozzy, his recent experience on a cruise ship, and even where to get the best fish and chips! Huge thanks go out to Adam for his second appearance on the podcast. You can follow Adam with his various musical ventures online and purchase his music through Bandcamp.

Ricky Warwick is a prolific songwriter, whether its in a band setting or under his own solo name, even recently releasing another solo effort this year, titled Blood Ties. Spring 2025 also saw him performing a run of acoustic shows in Illinois, which prompted this interview on A-SIDES. Ricky shares a few stories from visiting Illinois over the years, working again with The Almighty, performing these solo shows, and more. Huge thanks to Ben Owen for making this episode happen and a huge thanks to Ricky for the conversation! Ricky's extensive catalog from Black Star Riders to his solo material can be found online on your favorite streaming app, or physically through Earache Records. You can follow Ricky online at https://www.rickywarwick.com/

A band t-shirt is what ultimately sparked the discussion for this episode of A-SIDES. Jared Jones from the Tennessee-based heavy rock band EMERGE joins Episode 193 to discuss that particular t-shirt from the band REVIS, as well as his own band, sailing the high seas on the annual "Summer of 99" cruise, his first CD, music videos, and even road trip snacks. We run the gamut of Jared's interests and influences and it was a fun conversation! Huge thanks to Jared as well as the guys from In The End: Linkin Park Experience. You can find EMERGE's music on your favorite streaming app and follow them social media at @emerge_music or through their Facebook page.

Sons of Silver appeared on A-SIDES late last year for Episode 180, with band members Peter and Adam teasing their upcoming album, Runaway Emotions, and their winter tour slot opening for Myles Kennedy. This time Peter returns to the podcast and brings along fellow guitarist Kevin to not only provide a tour wrap-up, but they also share details on what's to come for 2025, a glimpse into their songwriting process, a few favorite records, and building a family environment within the band. Sons Of Silver's album Runaway Emotions was released in January to all streaming platforms and can also be purchased on their website, along with tour information and the recent launch of their online fan club. Thanks to Peter, Kevin, the rest of Sons of Silver and everyone who listens!

Framing Hanley recently dropped a new single, "Mean It (Photographs and Gasoline, Pt 2)", with plans for more music forthcoming in 2025. Nixon joined this episode of A-SIDES to share details on new music, touring this spring, navigating the music business, growing up in Tennessee, raising kids and sharing his hobbies with them, and even some pro-wrestling deep cuts come up throughout the conversation! Huge thanks to Nixon and the guys in Framing Hanley! You can follow along with their plans for 2025 by visiting them on Facebook or following them on Instagram @framinghanley Thanks to everyone for listening!

Episode 190 features not just one guest, but SIX different guests, all sharing their memories and stories of the rock n roll band, CHEAP TRICK! Denny Smith: Illinois record store owner and songwriter in The Great Affairs Corey "Rizzo" Rozzoni: Rockford IL-born and guitarist in The Great Affairs Ryan Waters: guitarist for LiV Warfield, Heart, and Roadcase Royale Nick Perri: from Silvertide to The Underground Thieves, he's also toured with Rick Nielsen Freddy Herrera: longtime bassist with Everclear and The Exies Ryan Roxie: podcast host, power-pop mastermind of Roxie 77, and a member of Alice Cooper! Huge thanks to these guys for participating and sharing their love of Cheap Trick and a special thank you to all who listen!