Decibel Geek Podcast

After a week of picking favorite debuts, we return to talk about greatest followups with Sensational Seconds! By now, you've most certainly heard of the dreaded "sophomore slum." While that term could be applied to many artist's second attempt, we're digging for the gold this week. There are a ton of great second albums in hard rock and metal history. This week, we're going over an exhaustive list of great second albums. You'll hear discussion of releases by Metallica, Ozzy, KISS, Tesla, Tora Tora, Saigon Kick, and a bunch more! After we get through the list, we try to pick our individual Top 5 choices. Decisions, decisions! Listen along and pick YOUR top 5 choices for greatest follow-up albums! Be sure to put your list in the comments below and let us know what you agree and disagree with of ours! We hope you enjoy Sensational Seconds and SHARE with a friend! Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcasts family. Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on

This week we're talking about bands that never topped their debut with Best Firsts! While many legendary bands take a few albums to fully find their footing, there are certain cases where the artist put their best foot forward on their debut album. Bear in mind, these are purely our opinions and your mileage may vary but we feel pretty confident in our picks this week. In this episode we talk about many well-known rock and metal artists and there's no easy way to not spoil it here in these notes. Did we get it right? Are we way off on some of these? Should we have our heads examined after listening to this episode? Listen and comment below and tell us! We also share some new updates on ROCKNPOD Weekend taking place in Nashville August 6-8th. Get your tickets, VIP, podcast registration, and discounted hotel rooms at www.rocknpod.com! We hope you enjoy Best Firsts and SHARE with a friend! Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcasts Family Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Fa

This week we're joined by Ron Keel for an insightful conversation on his career and future plans. As recently announced, Ron has been added to the roster for ROCKNPOD weekend taking place in Nashville this August. In this conversation, Ron talks about his early days in Nashville. Coming to Music City in 1979, Ron encountered a much different Nashville than the way it is today. In this discussion, he shares stories of what led him to Nashville, the rock scene at the time (or lack thereof), and how he planted roots and founded Steeler. The formation of Steeler would lead Ron and the band to Los Angeles in the early 80's. In this conversation, Ron shares the story of the band's early days, lineup changes, and how he feels about the legacy of the band. Things would go full-circle in 2019 when Ron reunited with several past members of the band at KEELFEST which would take place at the Alrosa Villa in Columbus, OH. It was a great way to cap off the history of Steeler. Steeler would give way to the formation of KEEL

This week we're taking a bite out of the Big Apple as Tony Mann joins to tell us why New York Rocks! Tony is a man of many talents; musician, author, filmmaker, designer, and writer. He started attending rock shows in New York City back in the early 70's. Over the years, Tony formed a bond with many artists that would go on to become legendary. With the recent passing of Sylvain Sylvain of the New York Dolls, it's a good time to delve into this subject. New York RocksTony Mann was close to Sylvain and has many great stories to share about the history of the Dolls, Sylvain as a person, and much more. Tony also shares his experiences and friendship with the late, great Dee Dee Ramone. Of course, we couldn't do a New York rock episode without including KISS. In this discussion, Tony shares his memories of KISS' early days, how they fit into the scene, and personal interactions with the members of the band. There's so much more to talk to Tony about in the future so, rest assured, he'll be returning in a future

We're back this week to deliver all the news that's fit to spit with New Noize 13! So far, 2021 has been an active year for rock and metal news. In this episode we talk about some of the notable stories that have taken place recently. Def Leppard recently launched an online museum for their fans. This site contains images of passes, stage worn gear, photographs, and tons more from their entire career. Best of all, it's actually free. We take a look at the Def Leppard Vault and share our thoughts on it and how it is a great template that other bands should be using for fan interaction. Some exciting reissues are on the horizon from the Ronnie James Dio era of Black Sabbath. Heaven and Hell and Mob Rules are getting the deluxe treatment and contain some cool bonus tracks. We talk about this cool reissue. Gene Simmons recently partnered with Gibson Guitars for a set of new guitars and basses as well as upcoming digital content. We break it all down in this episode. Legendary label owner Marsha Zazula passed rece

We kick off the new year with a look and listen back at our favorite albums from the past year with Best of 2020! While last year absolutely sucked for the world, it didn't stop the release of tons of great rock and metal music. By our count, there were over 80 albums released in 2020 that deserved our attention. We've poured over them all and narrowed it down to our Top 15 each. In this episode, you'll hear clips from 30 albums released in 2020 and get an explanation of why we chose them. Lots of legendary acts released new material in 2020. We got new music from the likes of AC/DC, Ace Frehley, Marilyn Manson, Blue Oyster Cult, Bon Jovi, Stryper, Armored Saint and more. Several "supergroup" type projects were released by Revolution Saints, Dirty Shirley, Sons of Apollo, Black Swan, and Tokyo Motor Fist to name a few. Some longtime metal acts returned to the scene with new material such as Primal Fear, Annihilator, Cirith Ungol, Testament and Alcatrazz. Younger bands emerged in 2020 with fresh material such

We're closing out 2020 with special guest Julian Gill as we talk The Best and Worst of 70's Judas Priest! The Metal God, Rob Halford, and his band of brothers started kicking our asses all the way back in 1974 and continue to do so today. While the vast majority of their catalog is considered essential, the first 5 albums hold a special place in our hearts. In this week's episode we discuss our thoughts on Rocka Rolla (1974), Sad Wings of Destiny (1976), Sin after Sin (1977), Stained Class (1978), and Killing Machine / Hellbent for Leather (1978). These albums would influence countless musicians around the world and help foster the arrival of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and, later, Thrash Metal. Their importance can't be understated. Picking a Best & Worst track on each of these albums was no small feat and there were some definite differences of opinion in this discussion. We'd love to hear YOUR picks in the comments section below! We thank the awesome Julian Gill for joining us this week and hope y

We're back this week to pick our favorite bass and drum combos with our Rhythm Section Draft! While the singer and guitarist tend to get the most fanfare in bands, there's nothing like a groove being laid down by the bass and drums. When this unit is locked in, it can produce magical results. The rock genre has been home to some amazing rhythm sections from the 60's on. With so many to choose from, we go back and forth and pick our choices. 20 total picks are made (10 for each of us). We think you'll agree with some picks and probably be infuriated with others. Got an idea of YOUR Top 10 rhythm sections? List them below in the comments! We hope you enjoy our Rhythm Section Draft and SHARE with a friend! Decibel Geek is a proud member of Pantheon Podcasts Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Subscribe to our Youtube channel! Support Us! Buy a T-Shirt! Donate to the show! Stream Us! Stitcher Radio Spreaker TuneIn Become a VI

We have a big announcement this week in an episode we're calling The Pantheon of Rock! In the nearly ten year history of Decibel Geek, we've been approached by several podcasting networks. While the offers were tempting, we've always shied away. However, we recently were approached by the Pantheon Podcast Network and, after a productive conference call and the possibilities of growing the show and offering more to our listeners, we've accepted their invite. This week Pantheon Podcast Network founders Christian Swain and Peter Ferioli join us to talk about Decibel Geek joining the network. Additionally, you'll hear more about the network and the great collection of music podcasts that are a part of it including our friends at Rock and/or Roll, The Hustle, Should It Out Loudcast, and many more. The network also has great shows by rock author Martin Popoff and the legendary Pamela DesBarres among many others. Christian and Peter also share some entertaining stories of their musical background including concert m

We're joined by Wally "Gator" Norton of the CGCM Podcast this week as we discuss The Best and Worst of Motley Crue! It's hard to believe that in the nearly 40 year history of this legendary Hollywood-bred band that only 9 proper studio albums exist from them. This week your three hosts pick their favorite and least favorite tracks from each Motley studio album. Starting and 1981's 'Too Fast for Love' and going all the way through 2008's 'Saints of Los Angeles,' there's a lot to cover. Additionally, you'll get our stories of how we discovered Motley Crue, concert experiences, record store purchases, and much more! It's a fun ride through the discography of one of the most notorious rock bands ever! We hope you enjoy The Best and Worst of Motley Crue and SHARE with a friend! Please leave YOUR choices for these albums in the comments below! Decibel Geek Podcast is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcast Network. Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow

We're back this week to cover all the rock news that's fit to spit with New Noize v12! In a dark, crazy year there's still some interesting stuff going on in the rock and metal world and we're here to talk about it! AC/DC has electrified the music world again with the release of Power Up; a 12 track slab of new rock for your ears. This album has been getting rave reviews across the world. What do we think about it? Is it among the band's best? Listen and find out as we review the record. Wolfgang Van Halen made headlines this week in a series of interviews amidst the release of two new tracks; 'The Distance' is a touching tribute to his recently departed father Eddie. The accompanying video has helped raise Kleenex stock all over the world. Another track, 'You're to Blame' shows some diversity from the rising star; using the moniker Mammoth WVH. We share our thoughts on the songs as well as what we think of the revelations brought out during these new interviews. Other topics covered this week include new and

We're back this week to present Our Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Part Two! If you thought last week's list was wacky, wait til you hear this! This week we're going from 2000-present. Like last week, we look at the list of official inductees from the Rock Hall and make our picks by comparison. Drawing on what bands were eligible each year, you can imagine how much different our list is from the official one. Of course, it's way better! Let us know what you think of our picks and make your own in the comments below! We hope you enjoy Our Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Part Two and SHARE with a friend! Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Subscribe to our Youtube channel! Support Us! Buy a T-Shirt! Donate to the show! Stream Us! Stitcher Radio Spreaker TuneIn Become a VIP Subscriber! Click HERE for more info! This show is part of Pantheon Podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we give our take on a pretty divisive topic in music fandom as we present Our Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Part One! The good people at HBO reached out to us to help spread the word on the 2020 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction ceremony taking place November 7th on HBO Max. Inductees this year include Nine Inch Nails, The Doobie Brothers, and T-Rex among others. With that said, we decided why not give OUR take on who we would have picked among those eligible over the years. Our Rock & Roll Hall of Fame This week we're tackling the inductee list from 1986 through 1999. In this episode, we're looking at who got in as well as who was eligible and stating what the Hall of Fame got right and correcting what we think they got wrong. If you're a regular listener of the show, you can imagine how different our lists are. Take a listen and play along with us! Additionally, you can WIN a free blu-ray copy of Doobie Brothers - Live from the Beacon Theatre. We've got 8 of them to give away! Just listen to find

We return this week with a blast from the past with Rock Mag '87. In the 80's, one of the only sources of rock news and information were magazines. Rock magazine titans of the 80's included Metal Edge, Circus, and Hit Parader. In June of 1987, Hit Parader released their supersized anniversary issue. Featuring Ozzy Osbourne and Randy Rhoads on the cover, this giant issue is a great time capsule of a magical time in rock and metal music. In this episode, we scan through the magazine and share our thoughts on several of the stories. Some of the news items, rumors, and letters to the editor are pretty entertaining in hindsight. Topics covered include Steven Pearcy, Whitesnake, Autograph, Black Sabbath, David Lee Roth, KIX, Ace Frehley, Megadeth, Rob Halford, Eric Carr, and tons more! We hope you enjoy Rock Mag '87 and SHARE with a friend! Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Subscribe to our Youtube channel! Support

We're getting cerebral this week while talking about the hottest band in the land as we chat with the authors of KISS and Philosophy; a book that seeks to enlighten you in a rock and roll way. On the surface, you'd probably think that KISS songs are simply about groupies and having fun. To a point, you'd be right. However, as this book seeks to prove, there are a lot of poignant statements made throughout KISS' lyrical history. Editor Court Lewis and contributor Matt Alschbach (along with others) provide an interesting case study in the ways that KISS' music parallels philosophy by Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and more. Don't worry, this is no stuffy read; it's written for the layman and carries some great humor throughout. Plus, these guys are died-in-the-wool KISS fans and you'll get lots of cool nuggets throughout. In this discussion, Matt and Court share their personal KISStories as well as help explain the main points of the book. We had a great time talking to these guys and know you will enjoy listen

With the sad news this week of a legends passing, this week we are Remembering EVH. Eddie Van Halen passed away from cancer this week at age 65. The news shook the world impacted us personally. To help process this information, we decided to go live on Youtube and Facebook. It was a cathartic chat between ourselves and several guests that joined us. Additionally, a large number of viewers shared their thoughts in the comments; many of which we reacted to. Guests that joined us for this live tribute included Bakko from Cobras and Fire Podcast, JTB from JTB's Groovy Record Room, Ian Wadley, Rockin' Ron Runyon from Decibel Geek TV, Greg Mangus, and Toddzilla. The void left by Eddie Van Halen is impossible to fill but we're appreciative of the decades of amazing music he left behind. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time. We hope you enjoy the replay of our livestream of Remembering EVH and share with a friend. Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes

This week we welcome back one of our favorite people to the show as we have a Conversation with Phil Shouse! As many know, Phil is one of the founders of Thee Rock n' Roll Residency here in Nashville. You also probably know that he's a member of both the Gene Simmons Band and the Ace Frehley Band. You may even know that Phil recently became a member of ACCEPT. What you might not know is that Phil has entered the world of podcasting/content creation! Shouse Rules recently launched on Youtube and is a welcome addition to our community. In this episode Phil gives us his thoughts on appearing on the new Ace Frehley album Origins Vol. 2 from eOne. The members of Ace's band including Phil, Ryan Cook, Jeremy Asbrock and drummer Paul Simmons perform a scorching version of 'She' by KISS. We got the breakdown of how the song was chosen as well as the story behind the recording. Additionally, with Phil's recent addition to German legends ACCEPT, he shares his story of how he was brought into the fold as well as an upd

This week we're joined by special guest Ian Wadley to talk all the rock news that's fit to spit with New Noize 11! This is a mega-long, alcohol-fueled deep dive into a ton of rock and metal news so strap in! In this edition, we'll discuss news stories such as a possile new AC/DC album, the new Ace Frehley album Origins Vol.2, the recent death of Lee Kerslake, and tons more! Ian also shares some news about the status of the Diabolus in Podcastica podcast. Other topics include Every Mother's Nightmare, Blue Oyster Cult, Marilyn Manson, Sammy Hagar, Tommy Lee, Sevendust, Smashing Pumpkins, Accept, Alice Cooper, L.A. Guns, Ozzy Osbourne, Megadeth, Rob Halford, and a great story from Aaron on the unifying power of Heavy Metal. It's nearly 3 hours of news, discussion, and laughs! We hope you enjoy New Noize 11 and SHARE with a friend! More New Noize HERE! Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Subscribe to our Youtube c

We're back again to tease your brain and test your metal with Reverse Beat the Geek Week! Reverse? Well, this time we're switching it up as Chris Czynszak hosts the festivities this time as three DBG VIPs from Patreon take on Aaron Camaro in the only game show that goes to eleven! Will Aaron claim the new crown? Will the contestants beat our favorite Wisconsin metalhead? Will Chris have any idea how to come up with decent questions? You'll have to listen to find out! Want to be a contestant on a future Beat the Geek episode? To be eligible, all you have to do is become a DBG VIP on Patreon for as little as $1.00! Head to www.patreon.com/decibelgeek to get signed up today! Plus, you'll get lots of great bonus audio content including The Chris & Aaron Show as well as Torpedo Dudes; a KISS podcast! We hope you enjoy Reverse Beat the Geek Week and SHARE with a friend! More Beat the Geek HERE Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram

This week we bring you our in-depth chat with producer & engineer Mike Fraser. Mike's credit list is a Who's Who of rock and metal music. In this conversation, we talk to Mike about many of his notable projects. Getting his start at the legendary Little Mountain Studios in Vancouver in the early 80's, Mike Fraser was in good company right away; working with such production greats as Bob Rock and Bruce Fairbairn among many others. From his early days working on projects such as Rush's Exit...Stage Left, Brian Adams' Reckless, and Loverboy's Notorious, Mike got his feet wet quickly on quality albums. Things would go up a notch in 1987 with Aerosmith's Permanent Vacation. Fraser, Rock, and Fairbairn would collaborate on the making of this comeback album from the Bad Boys from Boston. In this episode, Mike shares some cool behind the scenes stories about making of the album and working with the members of the band during big change in their lives. Mike also reflects on the making of the Pump album that would com