The Rock is George Podcast

George Dionne interviews ARMORED SAINT bassist JOEY VERA about their latest album ‘Emotion Factory Reset’. The album is set for release on May 22, 202 through Metal Blade Records.Vera is also the bassist for FATES WARNING and has been featured on releases by LIZZY BORDEN, JOHN ARCH, OSI, SEVEN WITCHES, MOTOR SISTER, and more. Highlights include:-How long the album has been in the works-What inspires him to keep writing new material-Which song on the album got the ball rolling-Deciding on the album’s title-Focusing more on vocal melodies-Trimming songs & writing more personal-Leftover material-Why Europe gets all the cool vinyl variants-Is the album cover AI or rendered by an artist-Live performance plans in support of the album-Backing up John Bush during his ANTHRAX-years show-Filling in on bass for Bush’s CATEGORY 7-Is there another catalog album worth of the praise ‘Symbol of Salvation’ receives?-What’s going on with FATES WARNING-And much, much, more!

George Dionne interviews CRASHING WAYWARD vocalist PETE SUMMITT and guitarist DAVID HARRIS about their latest single “Holding for Dear Life” and upcoming EP ‘The Fight Within’. CRASHING WAYWARD are set to kick off The Crazy Eight Tour on April 23rd. “We are Modern Rock, but what is Modern Rock?” - Pete SummittHighlights include: -Discussion of their latest single-Why criticism motivates them-Their songwriting process-How the visual artwork helps define the band-‘The Fight Within’ EP coming in the fall-The sequel EP their not supposed to talk about-Why not combine the two EPs?-Signing the deal with Golden Robot Records-The Crazy Eight Tour and how it got its name-Hometown shows and the crowds they bring-Plans after the mid-west run-Ron Keel’s involvement with their debut album ‘Listen’ (2023)-The waiting process in putting out music-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews Blues artist COLIN BURGESON about his debut solo album ‘From Sunshine Into Shadow’. The album is out now through Pavement Entertainment. “The funny thing is, what inspired the album’s title has absolutly nothing to do with [the music] whatsoever.” - Colin Burgeson Highlights include: -What inspired the album’s title-Why now was the time to ‘go solo’-Collecting the songs over a lifetime-How they have changed over the years-Taking a DIY approach to everything-Stories behind the singles-Music video plans-His LAKETOWN SOUND cover band-How they helped out on his solo album-Live performance plans-Signing with Pavement Entertainment-His past Heavy Metal projects PSIDIUM & INVASIVE-Opening for STEEL PANTHER, QUIET RIOT, and others-His father fronting FOGHAT in the ‘90s-Flirting with a career in law enforcement-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews LION’S SHARE guitarist LARS CHRISS about their first album in seventeen years, ‘Inferno’. The album is set for release on March 27, 2026 through Metalville. LION’S SHARE also features ASTRAL DOORS frontman Nils Patrik Johansson on vocals. Highlights include-Why the 17 year hiatus-Trickling singles since 2019 -Their songwriting process-Performance vs lyric videos-Plans for their back catalog-Hometown album release show-Other live show plans-Sharing the stage with DIO, MANOWAR, and MOTORHEAD-Releasing their 1st album in 1994-How does 2026 LION’S SHARE differ from 1994 -Issues with their first label-The origins of the band’s name-The story behind their demon mascot-Producing other artists-His work as a member of JOHAN KILBERG’S IMPERA-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews RICK MONROE AND THE HITMEN frontman RICK MONROE about their latest single “Our Love” and upcoming album ‘Southern Tea Bags’. Highlights include:-Transitioning from a solo artist to a band-The stories behind the singles-Crowd sourcing the video for “Our Love”-Multiple albums set for release-How they settled on the album title ‘Southern Tea Bags’-Releasing material on their own label Asylum 1212-Expanding the artist roster-Playing Daytona Bike Week & Jeep Week-Connecting with their fans directly-Sharing the stage with Charlie Daniels & Dwight Yoakam-Seven Time Jagermeister ambassador -Switching to a Monster Energy sponsorship-Will there be physical releases of their music?-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews FEMMES OF ROCK violinist NINA DIGREGORIO about their 2026 tour. Highlights include: -What to expect at a FEMMES OF ROCK show-How the tour has been going so far-Venues & Towns that have long supported the group-Core and rotating members-Future touring plans-Backing up the Totally 80s Symphonic! show-The changing entertainment scene of Las Vegas-Opening for CHEAP TRICK & BAD COMPANY-Her ‘Does It Violin?’ video series-How long it takes to create a short video-Was there a song that didn’t make it?-The staying power of her cover of Eddie Van Halen’s “Eruption”-Good & bad comments she’s received about it-Feedback she’s received from the artists she’s covered-How Jimi Hendrix influenced her artistry as a Rock violinist -Differences between the classical & pop/rock violin community-Does she still play classical pieces on the violin?-Her Buffalo Bills fandom-Future recorded music from the FEMMES OF ROCK-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews TIM DURLING, the host of TIM’S VINYL CONFESSIONS, about his YouTube channel and series of music related publications.

George Dionne interviews A LIGHT WITHIN vocalist KYLE BRANDT and guitarist JEFF IRVINE about their latest single “Dying Clock”. Highlights include:-Discussion of the new single-How the song came together-Working toward a full-length album-Members of the band on a break-Guest drums by Kelli Scott (FAILURE)-Their prior concept EP releases-Updating some of that music-Other music projects their involved in-The origins of the band’s name-How Kyle & Jeff first met-And much, much more!*Photos by Sid@Too Much Rock, Todd Zimmer & Jeff Irvine

George Dionne interviews vocalist PETER GOALBY about his lost solo album DON’T THINK THIS IS OVER. The album, originally recorded in the late ‘80s, was recently released on December 5, 2025 through Explore Rights Management. The album follows two prior releases of lost music PETER GOALBY recorded after his departure from URIAH HEEP in 1986.Highlights include:-His unreleased material finally getting its due-Not being aware that the recordings still existed-The process in getting it all back-Discussion of DON’T THINK THIS IS OVER-Mick Box (URIAH HEEP) punching up one of the songs-How a radio DJ caused RAK Records to pull the plug on his solo album-Worldwide response to his current releases-Playing golf with GLENN HUGHES-Getting the gig in TRAPEZE-Originally getting passed over for URIAH HEEP-His first album with URIAH HEEP turning their career around-Highlights of his time with the band-ARGENT, MOTT THE HOOPLE, and MICHAEL SCHENKER courting his services-Replacing RONNIE JAMES DIO in RAINBOW-Getting fired shortly thereafter -Does he have any more unreleased material?-Why he left URIAH HEEP in 1986-Rumors sabotaging future opportunities-And much, much more!*b&w photo by Juha Kivinen

George Dionne interviews Rock and Roll solo artist DES ROCS about his latest single “The Juice”, upcoming 2026 studio album, and recently announced North American tour. “The Juice” is available for streaming now through Sumerian Records.Highlights include: -Discussion of the new single-Previous released singles-His contributions to the video game Borderlands 4-Collaborating with Zayn Malik (ONE DIRECTION)-Covering “Ring of Fire” for the movie Nobody 2-Upcoming 2026 studio album-Touring North America in 2026-His involvement with the 2024 film Queen of the Ring-Signing with Sumerian Records-Opening for the ROLLING STONES-His one-of-a-kind Aviator guitar-Recurring symbols -Being in a band vs. going solo-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews HORIZON THEORY vocalist JOSH HARRINGTON and guitarist CHRIS BLACK about their latest single TRANCENDANCE. The single is out now through Mindful Recordings, with a full studio album, MISSION CONTROL, expected March 2026. “We’re lucky that we have kind of a home studio set-up, because we can record all the time…we’ve got probably two years worth of music right now that we can have mixed and mastered and put out any time we feel like it.” - Chris BlackHighlights include:-Trying to avoid genre labels-The story behind “Trancedence” -Working with producer Morgan Rose (SEVENDUST)-Shifting their production from in-house to outside-Songwriting dynamics-Singles vs full albums-Offering other bands recording, production, and songwriting services-Camaraderie among Michigan bands-Partnering with Mindful Recordings-Getting their music on vinyl-Does HORIZON THEORY have a drummer?-Their recent tour with HED PE-Touring with SEVENDUST-Their on stage “flame thrower”-Future touring plans-Story behind the band’s name-Not knowing of all the other ‘theory” bands-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews DEADLY APPLES frontman ALEX MARTEL about their latest singles, and upcoming album DISTRESS. DEADLY APPLES also features Antoine Lamonthe on drums and synth. Their upcoming album features guest spots by Richard Patrick (FILTER) and Danny Lohner (NINE INCH NAILS).”I really think that the best way to experience Deadly Apples is live…as much as I’m a very calm and quiet person…when I get up on stage, a whole different side comes out.”Highlights include: -How DEADLY APPLES was formed-Plans for their full album release-Taking their time crafting their music-Special guests from FILTER & NINE INCH NAILS-Lamonthe playing on METALLICA’s drum kit -Hitting 100k streams on Spotify & YouTube-Debuting “Volatile” video at Montreal Festish Weekend-Stories behind the singles-Performing at Welcome to Rockville 2025-Rubbing elbows with his music idols-Future live performances-His other music ventures-What inspired the band name-Continuing to write music-And much, much more!* Photos by Emmanuelle Guilbault Daif

“[On his time in SAGA] It is what it is, and thankfully it lasted at least three years. We pulled off a studio and live album…then Michael [Sadler] came out of retirement, and I understand that.” - Rob MorattiGeorge Dionne interviews Melodic Rock solo artist ROB MORATTI about his latest album SOVEREIGN. The album is set for release on December 12, 2025 through Frontiers Music and features Joel Hoekstra (WHITESNAKE, NIGHT RANGER ) and Tony Franklin (BLUE MURDER, JIMMY PAGE). Moratti was also the frontman of FINAL FRONTIER (2002-2006) and SAGA (2008-2011).Highlights include:-How soon after his last album he started writing this one-Songwriting collaborations-Deciding on the album’s title-SOVEREIGN’s message-Stories behind the singles-Countries and markets that embrace his style of music-Chances of a vinyl release-Opportunites to perform live-His early years in FINAL FRONTIER-Co-writing with guitarist Mladen Haze (VON GROOVE)-Pete Lesperance (HAREM SCAREM) on their debut album-Joining Progressive Rock act SAGA in 2008-The US band gig he nearly secured-And much, much more!*Photo by Surge Audio & Video

George Dionne interviews HELL IN THE CLUB drummer MARCO “MARK” LAZZARINI about their latest album JOKER IN THE PACK. The album is set for release on November 7, 2025 through Frontiers Music.Marco is also the drummer for SECRET SPHERE (w/bandmate Andy), ACHON ANGEL (w/Zak Stevens of SAVATAGE), and ODD DIMENSION.Highlights include: Frontman Davide Moras (ELVENKING) leaving the bandHow Tezzi Persson (INFINITE & DIVINE, VENUS 5) became their new singerHis contributions to the songwritingStories behind the singlesAlbum release party in Italy with special guestsBacking up JIM PETERIK & PRIDE OF LIONS over the summerGetting the gig with HELL IN THE CLUB in 2020Will there be more SECRET SPHERE musicThe future of ACHON ANGELWorking with ODD DIMENSIONThe declining local music scene And much, much more!*Group photo by Manuel Maggiore & Heine Otomiya. Marco photo by Debora Zaccarelli

George Dionne interviews solo artist CORY MARKS about his latest album SORRY FOR NOTHING, VOL.2. The album is out now through Better Noise Music. “Everyone’s got a story and I’m just trying to tell mine through my music” - Cory MarksHighlights include: -Discussion of the new album-If volume 1 and 2 tie into each other-Stories behind the singles-Working with the production trio of Kevin Churko (OZZY), Kile O’Dell (NITA STRAUSS), and Andrew Baylis (JELLY ROLL)-Signing with Better Noise Music-Reducing featured guests on this album-Upcoming Southside Double Wide Tour with SEVENDUST-Recent touring in Canada, UK, and Europe-1st experience in Europe-Flying with Royal Canadian Air Force Demo Squadron-Advancing from his personal to commercial pilots license-Playing competitive hockey-His brother Mark playing in the NHL-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews vocalist LAURI YLONEN of THE RASMUS about their latest album WEIRDO. The album is out now through Better Noise Music.“When we got on that stage [in Ukraine], it was pure joy. People were so happy that they had something else to think about for that one hour…the day before…there was a bombing.” - Lauri YlonenHighlights include:-Discussion of the new album-Writing & recording with Desmond Child & Marti Frederiksen-Being labeled a weirdo-Social media’s impact on self-esteem -Stories behind the singles-Creating more than just the music-Performing at the Atlas Festival in Ukraine-Live performance plans-New guitarist Emilia Suhonen’s impact-The origins of the band’s name-And much, much more!*Photo credit Venla Shalin

George Dionne interviews Swiss solo artist SERAINA TELLI about her latest album GREEN. The album is set for release on October 24, 2025 through Metalville Records. TELLI previously fronted the Power Metal group BURNING WITCHES from 2015 to 2019.“I see a lot of people that have a lot of influence, that could do so [many] good things, and they decide to not be good role models…you’re connected with millions of people, so tell them something good!” - Seraina TelliHighlights include:-Discussion of the new album-The concept of the color green-Shifting her sound for this album-Stories behind the singles-Connecting this album with future ones-Recent and upcoming live performances-Issues during her first US tour-Mixing full band with acoustic shows-Her 2024 release BLACK ‘N’ WHITE SESSIONS-Opening for KISSIN DYNAMITE in October-Were there people that discouraged her to pursue a solo career?-Christmas acoustic nights in Switzerland-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews TWO WOLF founder and bassist GREG T. Walker about their self-titled debut. The album is out now through Cleopatra Records, with a vinyl release set for October 2025. TWO WOLF also features LANCE LOPEZ, KRIS BELL, and RUSTY VALENTINE. Walker was also the cofounder and bassist for the Southern Rock act BLACKFOOT. Highlights include:-The formation of TWO WOLF-Discussion of the new album-The resurgence of vinyl-Songwriting dynamics-Mixing originals with BLACKFOOT songs-Stories behind the singles-Recording the album in a traditional studio-Southern Rock Woodstock performances-Appearing on the the Rock Legends Cruise 13 years in a row-BLACKFOOT signing with Epic Records-Signing with Atco Records-The high points and low points-The label trying to change them-Falling out of favor with Atco-Unreleased BLACKFOOT material-His brief stint with LYNRYD SKYNRD-Does he keep in touch with RICKEY MEDLOCKE-His Indian heritage-What inspired the band names BLACKFOOT & TWO WOLF-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews PANGAEA guitarist COREY SCHENCK and bassist RON POULSON about their latest album THE RECKONING. The now double album was recorded but shelved back in the early 2000s, and is now available with bonuses. Highlights include:-The reception their 2024 reunion album BEOWULF received-Live performances that followed-Why THE RECKONING was originally shelved-Why it differs a bit from the rest of their catalog-The differences between the two volumes of the album-Corey’s “stacks of notebooks” for song material-Contrasts between the two producers ROBERT BERRY & DITO GODWIN-Jumping into the music streaming game after trying to avoid it-Taking a break from live shows-A lot of new PANGAEA in the pipeline-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews THE SQUIRTS bassist and vocalist MATT BISSONETTE about their latest album SQUIRTS III. The album is out now through F-Bomb Records.MATT BISSONETTE has recorded and/or toured with numerous National music acts including ELTON JOHN, RINGO STARR, DAVID LEE ROTH, JOE SATRIANI, JEFF LYNN, SHEENA EASTON, KEVIN CRONIN, and more. Highlights include: -How the group was formed-Convincing RICK SPRINGFIELD to let them open-The long gap between album 2 & 3-Discussion of the new album-Songwriting dynamics-Stories behind the singles-Music streaming issues-THE SQUIRTS live -His current tour in KEVIN CRONIN’s band-Working with DON FELDER-His 10+ year run in ELTON JOHN’s band-Missing out on a tour with JEFF LYNN-His short stint with GINO VANNELLI-Self-doubt joining the DAVID LEE ROTH band-Auditioning & recording with OZZY OSBOURNE-Working on a solo Jazz record-A new album with THE REDDCOATS-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews PATRIARCHS IN BLACK guitarist and founder DAN LORENZO about their latest release HOME. The album is set for release on August 15, 2025 through Metalville Records. PATRIARCHS IN BLACK was founded by Dan Lorenzo and Johnny Kelly (TYPE O NEGATIVE) and each of their four albums features guest musicians. Highlights include: -Wasting no time in releasing new music-Discussion of the new album-Musicians appearing for the 1st time-Stories behind the singles-Collaborating more with Mark Sunshine-Trading album appearances with Daryl “DMC” McDaniel-Plans for leftover music-The difficulties of playing live-Appearing on Ozzy’s Boneyard-HADES live show re-release-And much, much more!*Solo photo credit Gina Lorenzo

George Dionne interviews CHOKESETTER vocalist JESSI MAULE about their self-titled debut. The album is out now through Pavement Entertainment. Highlights include:-How the band was formed-The long road to getting album out-New material already in the works-Songwriting dynamics-First single a tribute to FRANK ZAPPA-Album artwork discussion-Collaborating with DELCO DETENTION-Live show plans-Recent gigs with CROBOT-Upcoming Thunder on the River appearance-Best gig / worst gig-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews PUDDLE OF MUDD frontman WES SCANTLIN about their latest album KISS THE MACHINE. The album is out now through Pavement Entertainment. Highlights include: -Discussion of the new album-Handling most aspects of the writing & recording-Stories behind the singles-Testng the new music while getting an oil change-Trying to collab with former bassist Doug Ardito-A new UMG project on the horizon-Inspiration behind the album’s title-KISS THE MACHINE on vinyl?-Signing with Pavement Entertainment in 2019-Their Boardwalk Rock Festival performance-Future touring plans-Memories of recording COME CLEAN (2001)-Fred Durst (LIMP BIZKIT) and others helping them get signed-Working briefly with Jimmy Page (LED ZEPPELIN)-High point of PUDDLE OF MUDD’s 20+ years-Last time he spoke with Fred Durst-Offers to join other bands?-And much, much more!*Photos by Bryce Cain Photography & David “Doc” Abbott

George Dionne interviews CLAMFIGHT drummer/vocalist ANDY MARTIN about their latest self-titled album. The album is self-released and available now.“It was lining up four very busy people’s schedules, plus the pandemic, that just made this recording process go on and on.”Highlights include:Origins of the band’s nameHow they all came togetherDiscussion of the new albumDelays and restarts along the wayThe passing of producer STEVE POPONIStories behind the singlesAlbum cover art inspirationReleasing it without a record labelPerforming at Popnipalooza ‘25 in PAFuture live performances20 years of CLAMFIGHTAnd much, much more!*Photos by Dante Torrieri

George Dionne interviews JASON DEA WEST & THE SISKIYOU CREST frontman JASON DEA WEST and bassist AMIE ASTELLE about their latest album 8 MILES FROM RUSK. The album is out now through Anti-CorpMusic.”We’re both Punk kids that started playing Folk and Country music sometime in our early twenties.”Highlights include:Discussion of the new albumHow the group was formedRecording in a short period of timeWorking with producer DAN EMERYStories behind the singlesArtwork by VANESSA JO BAHARSigning with Anti-Corp Music8 Miles From Rusk TourOpening for Grammy winner SIERRA FERRELLCollaborations with DARIEN LANEGrowing up on and managing the family farmAnd much, much more!*Photos by Monika McFadden & Kenzie Marie

George Dionne interviews bassist JERRY PRUTZ of CIRKUS PRUTZ about their latest album MANEFESTO. The album is out now through Metalville Records. Highlights include: -Discussion of the new album-Writing & recording the traditional way-Working with Heavy Metal producer Peter Tagtgren (SABATON, PAIN, HYPOCRISY)-Stories behind the singles-Where the album title came from-Live performances-Tightness of the Swedish music community-How he originally started the band with Christian Carlsson (THE QUILL)-His work with WIRED ELECTRIC TENSION (W.E.T.) from 1991-1998-Any issues with the current band W.E.T.?-His other music ventures-And much, much more!*Photo by Kent Renaker

George Dionne interviews guitarist and vocalist JACOB DERAPS of DERAPS, about their latest album VIVA ROCK N’ ROLL. The album is set for release on May 23, 2025 through Metalville Records.Highlights include:-Discussion of the new album-How long has they been working on it-Stories behind the singles-Long distance songwriting-The album cover’s backstory-Live performances-Opening for BLUE OYSTER CULT & LEE AARON-VAN HALEN’s influence on his music-Has anyone in VAN HALEN commented on his sound?-Best/worst material by VH-Almost performing with TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA-And much, much more!* Photo credits Nick Kozub & Louise Newiss

George Dionne interviews songwriter, producer, and Blues Rock solo artist ANTHONY KRIZAN about his latest album ‘Cool Shade of Blue’ and the re-release of his 2017 and ‘Dust & Bone’. Both albums are out now through Deko Entertainment. Krizan was a member of the SPIN DOCTORS in the mid ‘90s, and he has written music for LENNY KRAVITZ, JOHN WAITE, CONTRABAND, GRETCHEN WILSON, PAT TRAVERS, and the WWE.Highlights include: -Discussion of the new album-Stories behind the singles-Writing songs for film-Settling on the album’s title-The re-release of Dust And Bone (2017)-Differences between both albums-Signing with Deko Entertainment-Marketing music in today’s landscape-Live performances-His Sonic Boom Studio in New Jersey-Who he’s recorded and produced there-His custom guitar pickups with Greenville Pickups-Getting the gig with SPIN DOCTORS in 1994-Auditioning with Alex Scolnik (TESTAMENT)-Opening for the ROLLING STONES-Writing songs for Michael Schenker supergroup CONTRABAND-Working with LENNY KRAVITZ-Writing music for Lillian Garcia of the WWE-Auditioning for the BLACK CROWES-AMPHIBIAN project with Tom MArshall (PHISH)-Producing DOGS IN A PILE-Plans to release archive material -And much, much more!*Photo credit Ron Adelberg

George Dionne interviews former GRAND FUNK RAILROAD guitarist/vocalist MARK FARNER about his first solo album in nearly 20 years, CLOSER TO MY HOME. The album is out now through Righteous Rock Records and was produced by Mark Slaughter (SLAUGHTER). Highlights include: -Discussion of the new album-The importance of dancing-What got him back into the studio after decades-Working with producer Mark Slaughter-Stories behind the songs-Collaborating with Jim Peterik (IDES OF MARCH, PRIDE OF LIONS, ex-SURVIVOR)-The comeback of music on vinyl-Re-Recording “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home)”-Playing in the American standard-Memories of recording 1970’s ‘Closer To Home’-Live performances with MARK FARNER’S AMERICAN BAND-His near-death experience-The story behind the cover art for his self-titled 1970 solo debut-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews POISON drummer RIKKI ROCKETT about his latest project THE ROCKETT MAFIA. The group features vocalist Bradnon Gibbs (DEVIL CITY ANGELS), guitarist Mick Sweda (BULLETBOYS), and bassist Bryan Kimes. -How the group was formed-Their 1st cover “I Think I Love You”-Covers & deep cuts in their live sets-Working with Brandon Gibbs over the years-Discovering Bryan Kimes-1st gig at the Whisky A Go-Go-Touring across the USA-Clubs vs. Festivals-Being inducted into the Metal Hall of Fame-Why he missed the ceremony-His time as an EMT-POISON in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame?-“Hair Metal” synonymous with POISON-Shooting the cover for ‘Look What The Cat Dragged In’ (1986)-The cover of ‘Open Up and Say…Ahh!’ (1988) having to be altered-His upcoming book ‘Ghost Notes’-Career highlights-The future of POISON-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews AIR DRAWN DAGGER vocalist MAISIE MANTERFIELD about their debut full-length A GUIDE FOR APPARITIONS. The album is set for release on April 4, 2025 through Long Branch Records.Highlights include: How the group originally formedWriting music in the back of a cake shopDiscussion of the new albumStories behind the singlesWorking with Tobi Duncan of TRASH BOATProducer Neil KennedyDabbling in witchcraft Singing with Long Branch RecordsAlbum release show at The CorporationImportance of theatrics on stage2025 live performances2024 SONGS TO FIGHT THE GODS acoustic EPHer thoughts on the label “female fronted band”What inspired the band’s nameAnd much, much more!

George Dionne interviews frontman DREW CAGLE of DREW CAGLE & THE REPUTATION about their latest album BAD ATTITUDE. The album was released on January 31, 2025 through Pavement Entertainment. Highlights include:-Discussion of the new album-Stumbling blocks along the way -Working with producer Matt Coles (EAGLES, ALICE COOPER)-Stories behind the singles-Competing with the local cover band scene-A Hard Rock record with a Country based backing band-Paying tribute to his Dad-Easter eggs within the album art-Signing with Pavement Entertainment-2025 live performance plans-The experience of opening for SLAUGHTER & GREAT WHITE close to home-Hanging with STRYPER & MR. BIG-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews LORD OF THE LOST frontman CHRIS HARMS about his debut solo album 1980. The album is set for release on February 7, 2025 through Napalm Records.“I kept telling myself for ten years now, if I keep waiting for the perfect moment, where there’s enough time [to record a solo album], I’m never gonna do it.”Highlights include:- Discussion of the new album- Why is now the time for his first solo album- Working on next LORD OF LOST album simultaneously with his solo album- Collaborating with Corvin Bahn & Anthony J. Brown- Stories behind the singles- Shooting videos to mimic the 80s- Guest musician Sven Friedrich (SOLAR FAKE)- Selling out of multiple formats weeks before release- Resurgence of vinyl albums- Live performances for his solo music- LORD OF THE LOST touring through 2026- Their experience opening for IRON MAIDEN- And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews CATS IN SPACE guitarist GREG HART about their latest album TIME MACHINE. The album was released on October 25, 2024 through Cherry Red Records.Highlights include:-How the band was originally formed-Discussion of the new album -Is TIME MACHINE a concept album?-Songwriting dynamics within the band-The importance of recording in the same room-Stories behind the singles-“Time Machine” having a familiar chord progression-Signing with Esoteric Antenna / Cherry Red Records-Bringing their back catalog with them-Album artwork discussion-2025 touring plans-Their recent appearance at Firefest 2024-FIRE IN THE NIGHT live album-His work on ASIA’s AQUA in 1992-Missing out on meeting Princess Diana-Is the band name inspired by THE MUPPET SHOW sketch Pigs In Space?-And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews NOVO COMBO vocalist/bassist STEPHEN DEES and drummer MICHAEL SHRIEVE about their latest album 45 WEST 55TH. Shrieve is also known for his work with SANTANA, and Dees for his work with THE BANDEES. Highlights include: - What brought the band back together- Discussion of their new album- Re-recording their best and reviving old demos- Two year journey to get the album completed- How THE BEATLES inspired the release- Recording individually now vs. in studio then- Songwriting dynamics within the group- Having their old music stolen- Streaming vs. physical media- An aside on THE TALKING HEADS- Chances of NOVO COMBO reuniting live- Archive live performances - Story behind 45 WEST 55TH title- BILL AUCOIN bringing Stephen & Michael together- Passing on vocalist KIM MILFORD- Recruiting the rest of the band- What led to the break up of NOVO COMBO- Record label BS- An aside on drummer SINA DOERING- Michael’s The StickPeople Podcast- And much, much more

George Dionne interviews STEEL CITY guitarist MIKE FLOROS and bassist JASON CORNWELL about their latest album REVERENCE. Highlights include: - Discussion of the new album- How a solo project became a band- Jason being brought into the fold- Recruiting ROY CATHEY (THE FIFTH, COLD SWEAT)- What inspired the album's title- Songwriting dynamics- Stories behind the singles- Signing with Frontiers Music- Past labels helping raise their profile- Recent show at The Whiskey- Future live performances- Their other working band LOVE IN CHAINS- Other music ventures- 4th album already in the works- And much, much more!*Photos by Joe Schaeffer, Jody Wilk, and Jimmy Taaffe

George Dionne interviews RADIOACTIVE founder and guitarist TOMMY DENANDER about their latest album RESET. Highlights include:- How the project formed out of band drama- TOTO’s involvement in the first album- Discussion of RESET- Why a reset in sound was needed- MUTT LANGE cutting demos but avoids vocal feature- His relationship with ROBIN MCAULEY (MSG)- JIM JIDHED (ALIEN) contributing- DENANDER returning the favor on his solo album- Newcoming HARRIS DIO ZINDANI- Joey Vanna (MECCA) making an appearance - DENANDER’s 1st time singing on his own album- Trading his services for a new JEFF PARIS album- Signing with Frontiers Music- Songwriters taking a backseat to the performers- Enjoying being the guy in the background- Working with ALICE COOPER for over a decade- RADIOACTIVE documentary- Comparisons to Fredrik Salma’s AOR project- Other artists and projects he’s working on- His thoughts on the upcoming GIANT album- Working debut solo album by STEFAN BLOMQVIST (BLACK PAISLEY)- And much, much more!*Photo by Marty Punch

George Dionne interviews DAYTONA vocalist FREDRIK WERNER about their debut album GARDER LA FLAMME. Highlights include: - How the band formed- Discussion of the new album- Influences from the '70s & '80s- writing & arranging with guitarist ERIK HEIKNE (MISS BEHAVIOR)- Surprising response to their first two singles- Big video production for "Slave To The Rhythm"- Story behind the album cover- Signing with Escape Music- Live show opportunities- Summer shows with his band AIR RAID- New music with AIR RAID?- 15 year anniversary of his band OKUSARU- Possibility of a FREDRIK WERNER solo album- Settling on the band name DAYTONA- And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews BLIND EGO founder KALLE WALLNER about their latest album THE HUNTING PARTY. Highlights include: - How the project came to be- Discussion of the new album- Collaborating with outside lyricist DOMINIK FEINER- Lyrics coming before music- Freedom to take chances outside of a band setting- Recruiting vocalist KEVIN KEARNS (CYANT)- Releasing to longest song as the first single- Upcoming tour of Germany & the Netherlands- How their last tour was cut short- Their 2017 "Storm Concert" at Night of the Prog Festival- His recent tour as a member of RPWL- The group's upcoming 20th anniversary plans- Writing & producing with other acts- Origins of the project name- And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews Glam Rock newcomer BOBBIE DAZZLE about her debut album FANDABIDOZI.Highlights include:- Discussion of the new album- Being to young to catch the 1st wave of Glam Rock- Main influence SWEET- BOBBIE DAZZLE project born out of tragedy- Music as therapy- Story behind the album's title- Recording in a traditional studio- Stories behind the singles- "Lightening Fantasy" taken from father's childhood lyrics- The trippy 70s style video for "Merry Go Round"- Incorporating the flute into her music- Surprising response to first singles- Co-writing with Dean Ashton (DIAMOND HEAD)- Signing with Rise Above Records- Selling out of vinyl editions- Upcoming UK Tour- Saying farewell to previous band ALUNAH- Catsuits & Glam- And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews LOVE IN REVERSE frontman MICHAEL FERENTINO about their latest album AMYGDALA. Ferentino is also the frontman for BEDTIME FOR ROBOTS, CORDUROY POO-POO, TRANFUSION M, and is featured on other projects.Highlights include:- Discussion of the new album- Story behind its title- Why AMYGDALA was not originally in the cards- Stories behind the music- Origins of the band's name- Society becoming a big reality show- Group think tearing the World apart- The retro album cover- Their LOST & FOUND compilation- Leaving Warner Brothers Records in 1998-1999- Working with producer Russ Titleman- His BEDTIME FOR ROBOTS project- New CORDUROY POO-POO compilation- His latest release as TRANSFUSION M- Collaborating with A FAIL ASSOCIATION- CONCRETE PLATFORM SHOES solo album- Stepping back from live performing- And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews VERTICAL HORIZON frontman MATT SCANNELL about the 25th anniversary release of EVERYTHING YOU WANT. "Military shows are the most meaningful things we do...we get to support the people that take care of us."Highlights include: - Revisiting EVERYTHING YOU WANT (1999)- Signing with RCA- Stories behind the singles- The muse behind "Everything You Want"- Local radio embracing "We Are"- "You're a God" appearing in BRUCE ALMIGHTY (2003)- Adding "Give You Back" to the set at the suggestion of RICHARD MARX- Recent tour with GIN BLOSSOMS & TOAD THE WET SPROCKET- Joining the Summer of '99 Tour with CREED in California- Upcoming 25th anniversary headlining shows- Working with the Gary Sinise Foundation to entertain the troops- Two new studio albums in the works- And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews SWEET guitarist ANDY SCOTT about their latest and final studio album FULL CIRCLE.Highlights include: - The evolution of the band’s sound- Discussion of the new album- Starting the writing in 2019 - Shifting gears to record Isolation Boulevard (2020)- Andy’s fight with Stage 4 cancer- Avoiding after show get togethers- His love of fly fishing - The farewell tour- Why FULL CIRCLE is their last album- Songs he wrote for the album- Their recent performance at Wacken 2024- SWEET continuing on without him?- And much, much more

George Dionne interviews OTIS frontman BOONE FROGGETT about the history of the band and their latest single “Last Fool In The Line”. Highlights include: - Formation of the band in 2013- Releasing a tribute to JOHN BRIM as 1st album- Producer GREG MARTIN (KENTUCKY HEAD HUNTERS)- Catching the ear of BILLY GIBBONS (ZZ TOP)- Boone’s ties to BLACK STONE CHERRY- Signing with Cleopatra Records for EYES OF THE SUN (2017)- Working with the late PAUL NELSON (JOHNNY WINTER)- Appearing on the STREET SURVIVORS soundtrack- Touring the UK for the 1st time- Discussion of new single “Last Fool In The Line”- Surviving thyroid cancer- Touring as crew for the KENTUCKY HEAD HUNTERS- The next full-length album- Working with producer KEVIN MCKENDREE - The origins of the band’s name- And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews CACTUS drummer CARMINE APPICE about their latest album TEMPLE OF THE BLUES - INFLUENCES AND FRIENDS. “[CACTUS] was supposed to be JEFF BECK, ROD STEWART, ME, and TIM [BOGART].” Highlights include: - The formation of CACTUS is 1970 - How/why CACTUS became an all-star project - Discussion of the new album - Recruiting the guest musicians - Having to adjust his recording style - Deciding on who plays on what - Being surprised by who was influenced by CACTUS - Eddie Van Halen’s “Eruption” born from a CACTUS song - Why two versions of “Guiltless Glider” - Who passed on appearing on the new album - Debuting on the Billboard Blues Chart at #3 - Working with an AI version of folk vocalist Melanie (Safka) - The parallels between this album and his Guitar Zeus (1995) series - Vinyl release of CACTUS - THE BIRTH OF CACTUS 1970 - His thoughts on the 2023 Royal Albert Hall tribute to JEFF BECK - KING KOBRA’s 2023 album WE ARE WARRIORS - No money in writing new music - His live Rod Stewart Tribute show with ROB CAUDILL - Touring with CACTUS & VANILLA FUDGE - 2023’s BECK, BOGART, & APPICE - Live 1973 & 1974 - And much, much more!

George Dionne interviews solo artist MADISON GALLOWAY about her latest self-titled album. Hightlights include: - Discussion of the new album - How the album developed from a couple of singles - Stories behind some of the songs - Collaborating with other songwriters - How her cover of "White Rabbit" (JEFFERSON AIRPLANCE) came to be - Recording in multiple studios - Crowdfunding the album and U.K. Tour - Creative side of music vs. the business side - Reward for fans helping to fund the U.K. Tour - Her Mad Cats fan club - Performances after she returns from the U.K. - How Purple Bee Records came to be -And much, much more! *Photo credit Dan Fisher

George Dionne interviews HER HEAD'S ON FIRE guitarist JEFF DEAN about their latest album STRANGE DESIRES. Highlights include: - Discussion of the new album - How the project originally formed - How the band has progressed since their debut - Songwriting dynamics within the group - Stories behind the singles - Their tribute to GARED O'DONNELL (PLANES MISTAKEN FOR STARS) - Working with co-producer JASON NARDUCY (SUPERCHUNCK) - Signing with Iodine Records - Collecting vinyl - Recent tours of the U.S. & U.K. - Working with bands HEAVY SEAS & DEEP TUNNEL PROJECT - Origins of the band's name - And much, much more! *Photo by Nathaniel Shannon

George Dionne interviews COLLECTIVE SOUL bassist WILL TURPIN about their latest album HERE TO ETERNITY. Highlights include: - Discussion of the new album - Recording at ELVIS’ Palm Spring House - Songwriting dynamics within the group - Stories behind the singles - Special guests MICKEY THOMAS (JEFFERSON STARSHIP), PETER STROUD (CHERYL CROW) and BRAIN RAY (PAUL MCCARTNEY) - Touring with HOOTIE & THE BLOWFISH - Playing arenas & ball fields - Band longevity -Opening for VAN HALEN 30 years ago -Performing at WOODSTOCK ‘94 & ‘99 -Turpin’s REEL TO REEL recording studio -Musicians in the family -A follow up to his solo album SERENGETI DRIVERS (2018) -Looking at the next COLLECTIVE SOUL album -And much, much more! *Photos by Lee Clower

George Dionne interviews Norwegian vocalist ISSA about her latest album ANOTHER WORLD. ISSA also discusses the advantages to writing and recording in-house, working with collaborators JAMES MARTIN & TOM MARTIN (Martin Brothers Productions), how the songwriting process develops between the group, the stories behind the singles, how the video for “Armed & Dangerous” came together, paying homage to 80s movie soundtracks, album artwork, why ISSA preforms live very rarely, her work on the 2023 NITRATE album FEEL THE HEAT, how she met her husband JAMES MARTIN, whether their are plans to make album releases completely in-house, and much, much more. *Photos by James Martin

George Dionne interviews guitarist DAN LORENZO of PATRIARCHS IN BLACK about their latest album VISIONING. Lorenzo also discusses how he formed the project with JOHNNY KELLY (TYPE O NEGATIVE) & guest vocalists, releasing a new album each year since their formation, stories behind the singles, working on DARRYL “DMC” MCDANIELS’ upcoming solo album, signing with Metalville Records, guest singers and bassists he couldn’t secure, the conclusion of his band CASSIUS KING, working on new music with VESSEL OF LIGHT, his 1982-2011 band HADES, opening for TWISTED SISTER in the early ‘80s, brushes with members of KISS, and much, much more.