Radioactive Metal

For diehard music connoisseurs a vast discography is always aces. But releasing a lot of albums doesn't always mean a banger every time out. Some artists do achieve that "sweet spot". An era of three or more fave albums in succession. So this week we go over our picks of the artists and albums throwing Three Strikes = Homerun! In our "News, Views and Tunes", we share our Friday The 13th and Father's Day experiences. Musically, we crank some Gwar, Cryptopsy, D.R.I., Indestroy, Oral (!), Lunatics Without Skateboards Inc., Riff Randells, Ascendancy and we introduce Australia's Sharpshooter in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up! 

One of the most important moments in Metaldom history is fast approaching. July 5th will be the legendary Ozzy Osbourne's last gig. To commemorate  this momentous event is the "Back To The Beginning" fest. Commencing out of Oz' hometown of Birmingham, some of the biggest names in our genre will be there to pay tribute. Metallica, Slayer, Alice In Chains, Anthrax and Ozzy himself will be doing double duty with Black Sabbath a.o. And it will be available on streaming. So this week we go through the line up and whatever else crosses our mind about this once in a lifetime event. In our "News, Views and Tunes", we reminisce about the days of overnight lining up for concert tix. Musically, we crank some Dead Kennedys, Dark Angel, Pentagram, Pagan Altar, Texas Toast Chainsaw Massacre, Iron Man, Temptress, Chernobyl Wolves and we introduce NY's Mykey Massacre in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up!   

Our 40th Anniversary Album Spotlight Series continues. This time we tapped one of the most important albums in 80s underground thrash. The amazing Megadeth debut "Killing Is My Business...And Business Is Good" introduced mainman Dave Mustaine's new project to a both curious and eager audience. Little did the underground know what a behemoth Dave and the (interchangeable) Boyz would become. Along with their contemporaries in the "Big 4". So this week we do a deep dive into this album that is still a fave today. We go into how it first hit our turntables and go into all the track by track goodness. Is this your fave 'Deth record? In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss the reborn "Heavy Metal" magazine and the "Back To The Future" guitar. Musically, we crank new and used from Dying Fetus, Laaz Rockitt, Conflict, Chris Poland, War//Plague, Tyran, Vomitor and we introduce Washington's Generation Decline in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up!  

Heavy Metal has always had it's share of misunderstood meaning in it's lyrics. Yes, some of the lyrics are quite clear: sex, old Beelzebub, and rock n roll. But there are a number of classic tunes that Joe and Jane Average lost the plot with. Tunes from Ozzy/Sabbath, Maiden and Twisted Sister have has their unjustified criticisms. Songs that got their panties in a bunch but all knew better. So this week we made a list and are "counting them down". In our "News, Tunes and Views", we examine the close connection between "Star Wars" and "Carrie" and perform an air drum solo over the air. Musically, we crank some Nuclear Assault, Razor, Mantas (pre Death), Quartz, Eviction, Crusader and we introduce Canuck metallers Cruzer in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up! 

For music conisseurs discovering an act before they develop a wide(r) audience scores cool points. The citizens of Metaldom have been racking up the points for decades. There have been numerous bands that Joe and Jane Average picked up on well after the Metalheads/Punks were in on the ground floor i.e Metallica, Soundgarden, Green Day. Yep, we knew 'em first. This week we have a laundry list of such artists. In our "News, Views and Tunes", we "Wow!" over current day Go -Gos. Musically, we crank Lord Vigo, Day By Day, Gehennah, Game Over, Inferno, Demon Pact and we introduce Archdruid in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up!

"Spotify Fights Back" is a rather oxymoronic statement.   This is a recent headline from MusicRadar and it's got us in a tizzy. In said article, Spotify is basically saying their business model is fair ball. But musicians have a slightly different take.   So this week we go our round against the streaming giant. In our "News, Views and Tunes", we tackle A.I. in the music biz and go over the "Thunderbolts*" movie. Musically, we crank Midnight, Ghaal's Wyrd, White Wizard, Mindwars, Leftover Crack, Pupil Slicer, Iron Spell and we introduce Dream Heavy in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

Whew!   We had a lot going on this week. And while most of it was outside the realm of Metal, we decided we still wanted to go over it. Considering Geekworld is good neighbors with Metaldom.   Simply enough, we're talking all our adventures with Free Comic Book Day, May The 4th (Be With You) and the 8th of May (International Motorhead Day). As well, we tackle the announcement from Propaghandi regarding their cancelled US dates for 2025.   Musically, we crank Cancer, Cirith Ungol, the aforementioned Prop., Jaguar, Fleshcrawl, Hexella, The Bloody Hell and we introduce Chile's Witchhunter in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns up!

When RAM was an interview show, we on occasion extended that to the "Indie Spotlight". Whenever an indie band impressed us above and beyond, we liked giving them a moment in the Hot Seat as well.   So since Aaron is going to be sharing a stage with symphonic metal band Eden On Fire this summer, we figured we'd do just that. We're stoked to speak to vocalist Amy Gould and introduce them to our listeners. Give them a listen.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss the Pope's playlist and review the new Alice Cooper (Band) reunion track.   Musically, we crank D.O.A., (Algy Ward's) Tank, Pentagram (Chile), Frantic Amber, The Anti-Queens and Witchspell.   Horns up!

Today more than ever touring is getting tougher and tougher on a lot of artists. Especially financially.   Pop artist Kate Nash has a huge following and her tour was packing 'em in. But she returned home in the red (!). But a couple bare behind pics on OnlyFans and that was that. So that got us thinking about the whole OF thingy and if it's a viable option for artists. What does it take to make it as a musician in today's economy? Have we returned to the days of Mozart when musicians and artists relied on wealthy patron for support?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we talk Metal artists playing WrestleMania. Musically, we crank new Cadaver, Bikini Kill, Wolf (80s), Inepsy, Witch Vomit, Jivebomb, Demona, Revenge (Chile) and we introduce Mexico's Skeletorn  (love that moniker) in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

The mid 80s were an interesting time for Canadian legends Rush.   Like so many of their contemporaries of the time, the trio seemingly openly embraced the era by developing a very "80s" look and sound. That was never more evident than their '85 album "Power Windows". The decisive album is 40 years young.   So as is tradition, we've chosen this album for our 40th Anniversary Deep Dive series. Since we're talking Rush, we once again got our "Rush Guy", Mr. Mark Buell on the horn to help dissect this record. We go track-by-track and discuss everything Rush in that era. What's your 411 on "Power Windows"?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we share our Record Store Day haul and acknowledge Rex Manning Day.   Musically, we crank some Scowl, D.I., Sledgehammer, Shed The Skin, Krossfyre and introduce T.O. crossover thrashers The Slime in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

There was a time when "physical product" was flying off the shelves.   There were some points when labels and stores couldn't keep up with demand.Through it all though there were some albums that should have sold by the bucket load. But they somehow fell short.   This week we go over some of these "can't miss" albums. That did. "Cold Lake" anyone? "Chinese Democracy". How about Crue's self titled album? Great albums that never got a fair shake?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss some past musical advancements and some geek talk. Musically, we crank some Conflict, -(16)-, Hobbs Angel of Death, Frightmare, Damien Throne, Hell Poison and we introduce Greek metallers Ringlorn in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

We've all seen the memes.   Pics of a dozen deceased artists with the caption "You can only bring one back for one more show". Unfortunately, Metaldom has lost their share of artists. And I know we'd all love to see them play their trade one more time. Lemmy? Ramones? Maybe RJD?   This episode we share our list of encore performances. In our "News, Views and Tunes", we talk the appropriate Juno winners and some Geddy Lee talk.   Musically, we crank some Necrophagia, The Great Kat, VHS, Nite, Maul, Antagonizor, Allies and we introduce hardcore bashers Fast Response in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!!!

Aaron is an accomplished musician. He's gifted on a number of instruments and frequently educates us with his Gear Talk. As for Snowy...not so much. He's never so much as owned an instrument. But that's not to say he doesn't appreciate a good axe.   Especially if it's a signature instrument played live by a fave artist. For instance, Micheal Schenker's Flying V. Or one of Lemmy's basses. How about one of the guitars Mantas used to record their classic debut? So this week Aaron has a laundry list of these special instruments to quiz Snowy on how much he'd pay to have these awesome artifacts hanging on the RAM office walls.   Musically, we crank some new and used from Haemorrhage, Slaughter (Can), Spazz, Massacra, Medieval Steel, Iron Curtain, Armoured Angel, Stainless and introduce Quebec bashers Vortex in our "Indie Spotlight".   This is the Ibanez Gem owned by Steve Tai that sparked this topic.   Horns up!! 

Rock n Roll has no rulz.   But I'm sure when we're consuming our fave artists, we all have our own guidelines. Especially when it comes to the all important vinyl. I know when we're digging in the shops we have our own "do's and don'ts". Where's our shopping preferences? What about pic discs and coloured vinyl? And what about Walmart? So this week we do a deep dive into our favourite pastime of digging through the record bins.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we celebrate Thin Lizzy Day and share the fun of our recent golf trip (!). Musically, we crank new and used from Primordial, Savage Master, The Hanson Bros., Jawless, Teaser Sweet, Genocidal Rites, Phantom and introduce India's Sacrifix in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!!

Welcome to #2 of our 40th Anniversary Deep Dive Album Spotlight. Last time we focused on Motley Crue's "Theatre of Pain", an album that epitomized 'Hair Metal'. This time we're going to the opposite end of the spectrum.   NY thrashers Anthrax' second effort "Spreading The Disease" was an important album. Not just for the band, but the Metal underground in general. Along with some of their Big 4 brethren's key releases, the album introduced a more mainstream audience to the  awesomeness that is Thrash Metal. It's also an old fave of ours that still gets turntable time. Was this your fave 'Thrax album?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we go over the "Metal Massacre..." and "Sisters With Transistor" documentaries. Musically, we crank Sacrifice, C.O.C., Bitch, Living Death, S.S. Decontrol, Lady Beast, 7 Year Bitch, Direct Action, November's Grief and introduce Toronto's Villian in our "Indie Spotlight.   Horns Up!!

The countdown's on!!   Record Store Day is generally a big f'n deal around the RAM offices. April 12 is when it all goes down and the first step is the release of the RSD Special Albums list. Another tradition is going over the list on the air. We scroll the list and make our picks for what we hope to find on The Big Day. So go to www.recordstoreday.com, find the list and join us.   As well, we discuss the "Only Girl in the Orchestra" documentary. Musically, we crank some Terrorizer, Omen, Christian Mistress, Chemicide, Traveler, Morbidity, Tomar Control and we introduce India's Air Raid Silence.   Horns up!

Every year the nominees for the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame always seem to raise eyebrows and get tongues wagging. Over the last couple years, the controversy generally is about what exactly constitutes inclusion. Semantics aside, we enjoy getting "The List" and this year we're taking a cue from "High Infidelity" and making our Top 5 list of choices. Who you got?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we hit up the "Capt. Comics Expo" and go over the viral Taylor Swift fan divorce video. Musically, we crank some Blitzkrieg, Budgie, The Exploited, Razor, Sadistic Intent, Mean Mistreated, On Fire and introduce trad metallers Dragonrider in our "Indie Spotlight".   If you are curious about the "Whamola" Aaron mentioned, you can view it here.   Horns Up!

It's that time again. Our little longtime listeners know what the Juno Awards (Canada's answer to the Grammies) mean to us. At least the Metal category, being two time judges ourselves. So we're stoked for this year's nominees. Especially since four out of five are Radioactive Metal alum. So in the spirit of the Junos, we go over the list and "cast our vote" over the air. You'll find making a pick to be a Herculean task too.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we go over the "Back To The Beginning" final Ozzy gig and announce the Manitoba Metalfest. Musically, we crank Deceased, Anciients, Striker, Warpig, Steel Inferno, Pupil Slicer, Drop Off Point, Malefaction and introduce Finland's Steel Machine in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

As we move along in life we pick up (hopefully) little bits of information. It's mostly info that isn't too groundbreaking or Earth shattering.   But in the context of our beloved genre, these tidbits become downright interesting. Over the past little while we've been compiling out own list of musical trivialities and this week we're sharing a handful of them. We hope we informed as well as entertained.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we have some gear talk and soundtrack speak courtesy of the great Akira Ifukybe. Musically, we crank some Dead Kennedys, MDC, Tokyo Blade, Meliah Rage, Holy Grail, Butcher, Lady Rage and introduce Canadian noise rockers Sweet Beast in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

With 1985 celebrating its 40th anniversary, it's time to kick off this year's Deep Dive series on cool albums turning 40.   1985 was an interesting year. That year could be argued to be the year that really kick started "hair" metal. And Motley Crue's "Theatre of Pain" was leading the pack. Gone were the studs and satanic imagery replaced by the pink scarves and hairspray. Nikki Sixx was leaning into his palm rock influences while sound wise a few tracks would have been right at home on "Shout At The Devil".   This was also a very divisive album. Not just back in the day, but around the RAM offices today. We go through the album track by track and discuss all the going ons when the album hit the tracks.   Musically, we crank Nifelheim, Abbatoir, London (!), Odin (!), Archagathus, Ice War, Breakout, Obnoxious Youth and we introduce Seattle's Hyperstrike in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up! 

As dedicated Metalheads, we all have those special albums near and dear to our Metal Hearts. I'm talking that collection of songs that changed our lives. It got us thinking how cool it would have been to be in the studio when these masterpieces took shape. Either as a fly on the wall or giving our 2 cents. Even getting coffee or going on beer runs would've been cool.   So this week we share our choices for such ventures. To help us out why not enlist a guy who knows his way around a studio. Mr. Matt Copper is our co-host with our sister show, Wrestling Night in Canada. More importantly, he's the main man behind his home studio, Atomic 29 Productions.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we have some cool gear talk and the goings on in the Exodus camp. Musically, we crank some Raven, DRI, Whipstriker, Mayhem (80s), Twin Temple, Mother of Graves, Rotting and we introduce German trad metallers Hornado.   Horns Up!

A new year always means more important anniversaries. We hate to remind our more veteran listeners that the year 1985 is 40 (!!) years old now! It was an important and pivotal year for Metaldom, to which the effects are still being felt today. So this time we're going deep into '85. We're going over some of the fantastic albums that hit the racks and some of the amazing bands that first hit the garage. Great times!   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss the LA fires and the "Invoking Yell" black metal found footage film. Musically, we crank Grave Digger, Bloodfeast, Minor Threat, Savage Grace, Impaler, Extreme Noise Terror, Black Lace, Satanic Slaughter, Sadistik Executioner, Axetasy and we introduce ChiTown's Gloryhole Guillotine (!!) in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

It's not over until...we've had our Rammy Awards.   Basically, the Rammies are our take on the Grammies. Meaning we make our picks for the "Best Of" for the year that was. In the categories that mean the most to Metalheads; Band, Album, Live, News Story a.o. As well, as is tradition, we give our inductions into the RAM Hall of Hall for Band, Album and what we call Myth and Legend. Play along with your picks too.   Musically, we crank Warlord, The Rods, Nails, Ghoul, Jaguar, Sentry, Fulci, and Blood Opera.   Horns Up and here's to an awesome 2025!

Aaron has become a proud papa again. First when his offspring came into the world. Second when his little girl asked for a skateboard.   Excited as we are to commemorate this event, we felt it was a good time to discuss all things skating. We discuss our first decks, "skate" music, Thrasher mag and the skateboards impact on pop culture. We even invited Snowy's board Betsy to sit in with us.   Musically, we crank some Septic Death, Beyond Possession, Impaled Nazarene, JFA, Hellripper, Bobbie Dazzle, Woslom, Cuntroaches and we introduce Cruel Force in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!!

Happy New Year!!   2024 is coming to an end, so consider this episode the Radioactive Metal New Year's Eve party. This time we pour some bevvies, crank some tunes and talk about...whatever.   You know, like a party. And what's a party without good friends? So we pour a Lemmy for our bud and sister podcast Wrestling Night in Canada co host Mr. Matt Copper. We yap about new movies, Godzilla comics, our fave Star Wars characters and cool shite' on Thunderflix.   Musically we crank some Manilla Road, Tankard, Wehrmacht, Nunslaughter, Rottrevore, Heavy Load, Withtrap, Starvation Army, Hogan's Heroes, Lurking Corpses, Torso, Owlbear, Taptore and introduce Philly's Breaker in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!!

The biggest news on the hearts and minds of Metalheads the world over is the retirement of long time Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain. Having been behind the kit since the classic '83 record "Piece Of Mind", Metaldom just won't be the same.   As is tradition, every significant retirement requires a proper send off. So we decided to have one for our listeners. We go over our fave Nicko skinbeating moments. We also share our choices of who we'd like to fill these big shoes. And finally, we go over Mr.McBrain's menu for his Rock N Roll Ribs restaurant.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we have Xmas Hallmark (!!) movie recommends and some Roller Derby talk. Musically, we crank new Sacrifice, Thunderstick, Rock Goddess, Virtue, Ice War, Cardinal Noire, Raised By Owls and introduce TX tickets Mean Mistreater in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns up!!!   Timestamps for Aaron's "nerd out":   Hallowed be thy name - Live After Death - happens at 5:36, start at 5:30 Rime of the ancient mariner - Snare fill after the interlude - 8:50, last for about 10 seconds. It's a slow build like a an orchestra percussionist morphing into a rock drummer. Starts at 8:48 with a groove. Senjutsu - Listen to the taiko drums and then how he blends it in with the kit - first 30 seconds - listening again he sounds like a younger drummer that was influenced by him. Revelations - Accents the bass part when it comes in. Starts at 30 seconds as a band, then bass and drums lock in and change the groove at 43 seconds Aces High - 22 seconds the way the drums slow down, and then the crak to bring it all back to tempo at 24-25 seconds The Trooper - 9 seconds in the drums play in unison with the band, this is something I noticed happens a lot in maiden    

The annual Montreal black metal festival Messe De Morte is in the books. We never made it out to La Belle Province ourselves, but it's a yearly trek for our good bud and sister show Wrestling Night in Canada co-host "Ducky" Dustin Maruca.   So this week we sat Mr. Maruca in the hotseat to the get the 411 on the fest. We go over the line up, the highs and lows and and the presence of Antifa (!). We're already eagerly awaiting next year.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we get reintroduced to the Partridge Family (!!) and pay tribute to a Canadian Punk legend. Musically, we crank Messe headliners Marduk and Ancient. Plus some Personality Crisis, Faithful Breath, Demon Bitch, Void, The Headless Ghost and introduce Canuck bashers CHUZO in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up! 

Remember when you were a kid and you hated brussel sprouts? As you got older, your palette may change and evolve to where those evil little veggies may not taste so bad. The same can be said for musical tastes. Particularly towards specific artists or even entire subgenres.   We all have those specific bands that really didn't turn our crank at the time. But now you find yourself front row centre. What are some of those artists for you?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we celebrate music pioneer Wendy Carlos, discuss Knocked Loose on Jimmy Kimmel and call out a domestic abuser! Musically, we crank some Massacre, D.R.I., Sarcofago, Havok, Mutank, Underdog (Ger.), Crossfire, Sidewalk and introduce Gravemass in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!!

Dec. 6th is the last Bandcamp Friday of the year.   One Friday a month, Bandcamp relinquishes their cut of all the sales on the site. Effectively giving the artists 100% of the profits. We've been big supporters of BCF for years now. So this week we figured we'd throw out some of our recommends to add to your collection. But don't just take our suggestions. Run, don't walk, to Bandcamp right now.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we remember the Cabbage Patch Kid riots. Musically, we crank new Anialator (TX), Sign Of The Jackal, Evil Survives, Against Empire, The Pist, Hellfire Club '76, Leatherhead, Hippie Death Cult and we introduce folk metallers Mythbegotten in our "Indie Spotlight".   Snowy's Picks: Hippiedeathcult.bandcamp.com Witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com (Spitfire) Middleearthrockss.bandcamp.com Hellfire76.bandcamp.com Thepist.bandcamp.com   Aaron's Picks: Messer Chups - Don't Worry Be Creepy Rodrigo Y Gabriella Estaurio - Puerta al Sol Mythic - Anthology Echoes of Death  - In The Cemetery Shameless Plug - DiGregorio       Horns Up!

It's no exaggeration when we state that we grew up in record stores. From our early teens right up to this writing, we had a variety of shops that were/are our homes away from home.   These hallowed halls come with a variety of memories you just don't get with streaming. So this week we figured we'd give these cherished shops a "Horns Up" and share some memories. For instance, some of the cool albums we found, autograph signings and the awesome interactions we had some of the awesome people behind the counters. What are some of your cool record store memories?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we go off on the cancelled Canadian King Diamond dates and our friends appear in the new Toxic Avenger comics. Musically, we crank some new + used from Verbal Abuse, Living Death, Warcollapse, Sabire, Bitch School, Satan's Fall and introduce trad metallers Bronze in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!

We admit it. We're old.   Actually, we prefer "music veterans". We're veteran enough to have consumed out music on all three physical media formats - vinyl, cassette and CD (and even a few 8 tracks lol). So with these formats we have a number of special albums that we shelled out for all three. Generally the lineage would be from vinyl to cass. to CD. But of course there's no tried and true formula. So this week we'd figured we'd share a list of these special albums. How many albums made your special list?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss the aftermath of the election and hit up a new record shop. Musically, we crank some Slaughter (Can), Pounder, Hatchet, Asomvel, Poltergeist (Can) and Dissection (Can).   Horns Up!!

We here at RAM have always been vinyl conisseurs. But more and more people are discovering the joys of vinyl. It's really heartwarming when we see the youth of today (that was totally intentional lol) digging thru the racks. That means there's a lot of fertile minds that we feel, as veterans, should be doing our part to enlighten. Vinyl records have basic terminologies every collector should know. For instance: "LP", "hype sticker" and "deadwax". So we gathered a laundry list of said terms. Educational for the young'uns. Entertaining for the vets.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we share our Halloweens and discuss A.I. "music". Finally, we crank some cool tunes from Sacred Reich, Overdrive (Swe.), Witchkiller, Meanstreak, Haunt, Spitboy and Phaethon.   Horns up!!

The passing of ex-Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno was the major topic on the hearts and minds of Metal Heads the world over. Mr. Di'Anno wasn't just a great artist, he was a frontrunner and influence on an entire generation. So it's only appropriate we dedicate our discussion segment to this legend.   We go over how we first discovered The Man. Our fave tunes. And where we think he would be haunting.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we attended the Winnipeg Comic Con and helped christen a new venue.   Musically, we crank Ancients, Castle, Phobia, Desultory, Tailgunner, Juggernaut and Paul Di' Anno's Warhorse and Killers.   Horns Up!

Happy Halloween! We love this time of year. But not only for all the spooky season goodness. Our annual Halloween episode is always a barnburner. For the festivities this year we test Aaron's horror film knowledge with an appropriate number of 13 trivia questions. We also pose the question "Would you buy any records from a serial killer's collection?" And of course, we discuss the Ozzy HOF induction. Musically, we crank a stack o wax with Warfare, MDC, House By The Cemetery, Sadist w/Claudio Simonetti, Vincent Crowley, Savaged, Texas Toast Chainsaw Massacre and Necronomicon Ex Mortis. Horns Up and Happy Halloween!!

Love it or hate it, "Hair" Metal is always an interesting topic. Often the subject of ridicule from more modern fans, the impact the subgenre has had on music as a whole cannot be denied. So when Paramount+ dropped the new docuseries "Nothin' But A Good Time: The Uncensored Story of 80s Hair Metal", we jumped right on it.   We go over all three episodes. But not with a fine toothed comb, of course. As well, we use the opportunity to try to come up with our own Hair Metal Big 4. It's harder than you think.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss RelicRadio.com (old school radio horror) and acknowledge our 17th (!!) birthday. Musically, we crank some Bulldozer, Destruktor, Youth Brigade, Madam X, Warrant (Ger), Poison (Ger) and Toxikull.   Horns Up and Happy Halloween!!

Halloween isn't just about collecting candy and cringy Wednesday costumes. Music plays a big part of the spooky season.   Whether it's awesome horror film soundtracks or horror related guitar rock n roll, music provides the perfect atmosphere sounds for your October. But over the years we've noticed some people's idea of "Halloween" music doesn't quite cut a drunken teenager at Summer camp. So this week we compiled some songs that are debatable and we our "Yay" or "Nay".   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we're off and running with our annual October Horror Movie Challenge and address the Taylor Swift charity guitar incident. Musically, we crank some Municipal Waste, Hallows Eve, Piledriver, Slasher Dave, Subhumans, Messer Chups and introduce Pythonic in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up and Happy Halloween!!

Dec. 31, 1973, in the wilds of Australia, the legendary AC/DC played their very first gig. Effectively making 2024 their 50th (!!) anniversary.   So obviously this is a big f'n deal. So we decided to give Angus and the Boys some time in our "Spotlight" episode. We go over some of our fave songs and albums, how we discovered the band and the (non) controversies. And of course the age old question - Bon vs. Brian?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we go over the recent discovery of a 235 yr old Mozart song. We tell a nazi punk to "Fvck Off!!" And we finally gave THAT Jethro Tull album a spin. Musically, we crank tunes from Hirax, Mortal Sin, Crystal Viper, Gruesome, Asexuals, Limp Wrist, ACXDC and the aforementioned Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (!!).   Horns up!!

We now return to our regular programming.   The legendary Iron Maiden are one of the greatest musical artists of all time. And the 80s is where they reigned supreme. Not just on the live front where they still do. But on the record racks as well.   "Powerslave" was the epitome of 80s Maiden. And it recently celebrated its 40th anniversary! So it's a great time to feature this awesome album in our ongoing 1984 Albums Deep Dive. We dissect this important platter track by track. And share how we discovered the record and a few album cover artwork Easter Eggs.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we celebrated International Bat Man Day and discovered vinyl in our local Toys R Us (!!). Musically, we crank new and used from Witchkiller, Dark Heart, Deadly Blessing, Anti-System and Battle Born.   Horns Up!!

We just lost one of the greats in one James Earl Jones.   It's true doing a deep dive about a legendary actor is a bit out of our format. But we figured "Why not? Let's embrace our geekhood and pay tribute to a man that has a large following in Metaldom."   Unfortunately, Aaron could not join us this week. So we brought in a couple ringers. Matt Copper is no stranger to the show. We've had him on a few times and is the co host of our sister show Wrestling Night In Canada. He's also a RAM alum. As well Snowy's daughter Charity joins us. Both grew up with JEJ' voice in their ears.   Musically, we crank some Satan, Lions Pride, Wolfbrigade, Thulsa Doom (duh), Immortal Bird, Acid Mass and D.V.C. (Darth Vader's Church) (double duh).   Horns Up!

Break out your poison of choice! Welcome to Episode 8 fn hundred! It's time to celebrate!!   When we first went "on the air", nobody really knew what a podcast was. And now we remain one of the longest podcasts, Metal or otherwise. So this time we decided to sit back and relax and shoot the shite'. And of course, crank a fistful of Metal.   We discuss Jason Newstead's reverb shop, some cool flix we saw and the "Hawk Tau" girl. Musically, we crank some Death, Pestilence, Cancer, Bitches Sin, Detente, Abigail, Wargasm, Zoetrope, Orange Goblin, Gallhammer, Birth A.D., Archagathus, Bastard Priest, Goatzilla and Dishammer.   Horns Up! 

Our series on those amazing albums celebrating their 40th anniversary continues. Legendary hardcore/punks Black Flag had a productive '84, releasing three full lengthers. Probably the most renowned is "Slip It In". So we tapped this classic album for a deep dive. We go track by track and share as much info and opinions as possible. Particularly, "the bars" and tattoos. We learn that one of our cohosts REALLY knows a lot about Henry Rollins. Slip this one on and give it a listen.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we pay tribute to Radioactive Metal alum Jack Russell and shout out Midnight for their recent honour.   Musically, we crank some Black Flag, Midnight, Tygers Of Pan Tang, Mortician, Pirate Queen, Messer Chups, and SOA.   Horns up!!

As music connoisseurs, we all have those past gigs we wish we would've caught. We were either to young or the venue was on the other side of the globe. Either way we'd all like to jump into Doc Brown's DeLorean and live those magical moments.   How 'bout the Ramones at CBGBs? Or KISS in the 70s? Or how about a little band called Mantas during the demo days? Musical Nirvana for sure. Which gig did you wish you caught?   In our "News, Views and Tunes", we hit the comic and record shops and shout out "National Vinyl Record Day! Musically, we crank new + used from Discharge, Mantas (Death), Nasty Savage, Ripcordz, Fulci, Stretch Marks, Mekong Delta and introduce Canadian trad metallers Spectre in our "Indie Spotlight".   Horns Up!!

Our coverage of amazing albums celebrating their 40th anniversary continues.   70s glam rockers Slade were over big in the UK/Europe, but it wasn't until the "Keep Your Hands Off My Power Supply" album that Noddy and the Boyz breakthrough on the side of the pond. It's been a favorite of ours since the get go.To celebrate we're giving the record a track -by-track going over, and throwing in a bit of trivia as well.   In our "News, Views and Tunes", the first Spirit of Halloween locale opened in Winnipeg and we have some Doctor Who geek speak.   Musically, we crank some Deceased, Blitzkrieg, Morbius, Guillotine, Amethyst, Toxik Death and we introduce the hilarious Raised By Owls in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up!!

Canadian legends Rush are obviously huge around the RAM offices. And our own Aaron is a badass bassist as well. So of course we both got sucked right into the Paramount + mini series "Geddy Lee Asks 'Are Bass Players People Too' ". The bassist extraordinaire spends time with four major music movers and shakers that strum the four strings. The program sent our imaginations into overdrive. This week we fantasy book our own Season Two. Our picks range from some all time greats to underground underdogs to Lemmy (??!!). In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss Gojira at The Olympics. Musically, we crank some Ironflame, Tokyo Blade, Poison Idea, Malignancy, Helms Deep, Warlust and introduce Florida trad metallers Living Fast in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up!

Pop culture figures venturing into the Music World is hit and miss. Legendary actor Christopher Lee hit it out of the park. While Bruce Willis and Eddie Murphy - not so much. Once again a casual point in conversation inspired this week's discussion. And we came up with our own athletes, actors, etc that we'd like to see take a shot at Metaldom. Elvira doing a Goth project? Or even Samuel L. Jackson doing a 70s  jazz record. Take our money!! In our "News, Views and Tunes", we're less than receptive to the new "Twisters" flick and Nickelback doc. Musically, we crank some new and used from Wraith, Warlord, Iron Angel, Witchsnake, Corky and the Juice Pigs and introduce Vancouver hardcore bashers Fearbirds in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up!

It's no secret that we love music related documentaries. It's always interesting when the talking heads get their brains picked on an equally interesting subject. One particular doc that has gotten attention is the "Records Collecting Dust" and it's sequel. Being vinyl fanatics, it's so cool diving into some our fave artists record collections with them. These amazing docs have inspired us to do our own audio version. We share our first vinyl, some cool collectibles and a fistful of essential platters. Featuring some amazing records ranging from Sodom to The Crue to Bob Newhart (??). What are some of your faves? In our "News, Views and Tunes", we attend the 2024 Ai-Kon anime/manga con and discuss the Legend of Seth Putnam. Musically, we crank Paul Di'Anno's Warhorse, Destroyer 666, Iron Reagan, Overdrive (Swe), Steel Vengeance, Executioner (Boston) and The Voluptuous Horror of Karen Black. Horns Up!

On the live front, the front person has arguably the most important job. As the voice, they're basically running the show. Over the years, Metaldom has had so many awesome performers filling that position. And we all have our faves. Then week we gave ourselves the Herculean task of whittling down our choices to a mere ten. What are some of your faves?   In our "News, Views and  Tunes", we talk "Ghostbusters Night" at the ballpark and exactly how many instruments that Aaron can play. Musically, we crank some new and used from Autopsy, D.R.I., Master, Macabre, Forgotten Rebels, Devil Lee Roy and the immortal Quorthon.   Horns Up!

The classic album "Stay Hungry" from the legendary Twisted Sister is one of Metaldom's most celebrated efforts. The singles spoke to us. Some songs creeped us out. Most importantly, it scared the hell out of the non-believers that needed the fright. It also turns 40 this year! So we gave it the deep dive treatment in our continuing '84 Anniversary albums. We go over how we discovered this platter, the effect and influence on the biz it had and do a track by track dissection. Enjoy, SMFers!   In our "News, Views and Tunes",  it's Canada Day! So Aaron gave Snowy some trivia about Canada (Can you believe the animal was not a Moose?!?). Musically, it's all Canadian artists feat. Sacrifice, Razor, Thor, Kick Axe, Nocturnal Departure, Assault, Buchoffuckinggoofs, Varga, Malhavoc, Overthrow, Society's Grudge, Yer Mum and Chocolate Bunnies from Hell.     Horns Up!

We all love Metallica here in the RAM offices. But those first four 80s albums was when our fandom burned brightest. And depending on the day, Record #2 "Ride The Lightning" is one of our faves. The combination of brutal thrash, brilliant musicianship and songwriting and bombastic attitude also makes it one of the more influential underground albums of the day. And this amazing slab 'o wax turns 40 (!!) years young. So we're doing a deep dive as part of our continuing look at some of the classics from '84. Lightning up your Ass!! In our "News, Views and Tunes", we crank new and used from Bloodfeast, Bikini Kill, Warhead, Drift Into Black and introduce NYs Legionary in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up! 

Last episode during our conversation about Yngwie Malmsteen's ripping debut, we causally mentioned the classic G3 tour. The G3 was a triple threat attack feat. Joe Satriani, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson. It's a concept that had musical affianiodoes all abuzz. So we figured we'd share some of our fantasy G3s. Not only more traditional, but multiple subgenres as well. Which three axeslingers would you want to see tearing it up on stage? In our "News, Views and Tunes", we discuss the concept of "Dad rock" and the new "Lisa Frankenstein" flick. Musically, we crank some Portrait, MDC, Cancer, Hate Eternal, Beyond Possession, Bloodbath, Yellow Fever and introduce Canuck punkers The Poor Choices in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns up!!

'84 saw the solo effort from axe virtuoso Yngwie Malmsteen. "Rising Force" is an appropriate moniker as the record took the Metal World by storm. Not to mention it was kind of a trailblazing release. The 80's was definitely the era of the flamboyant frontman. But Malmsteen chose to let the music do the talking...literally. So this week we go through this musician's musician album. And Unleash The Fury!! In our "News, Views and Tunes", we go over the "The Last Voyage of the Demeter" flick. And give a shout out to Zebra Boy from the "Heavy Metal Parking Lot" doc. Musically, we crank some new and used from Dead Kennedys, Whiplash, Adversarial, Venger, Haatan and introduce Italy's Lord Goblin in our "Indie Spotlight". Horns Up!