Talk Louder

Josh ToddAs the frontman for Buckcherry, singer Josh Todd is a human blur of rowdy rock energy. On the eve of the band's eleventh album, “Roar Like Thunder,” he joins us (on his birthday, no less) to discuss the new album, the touring hustle, why the Scorpions always bring the girls and how Val Kilmer talked him into acting in “The Salton Sea.” Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Robert FleischmanHe briefly sang for Journey and co-wrote two of the band's best-known songs. His other credits include his piercing vocals on the cult-classic, glam-metal debut album from the Vinnie Vincent Invasion plus brushes with Asia, Michael Schenker, Genesis and Gene Simmons. Vocalist Robert Fleischman joins us to discuss his storied past, his latest album, “Emotional Atlas,” that time he got an encouraging two thumbs up from Beatles producer George Martin and an unforgettable outburst from a “pissy” Vinnie Vincent. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Tracii GunsGuitarist Tracii Guns returns for a third time to discuss the creative chemistry behind L.A. Guns' latest album, “Leopard Skin;” its deep-rooted classic rock and funk influences; singer Phil Lewis' initial dislike of the album title; the band's collective favorite track; “pimp music;” and why James Hetfield is the bravest man in rock. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Frank MeyerWith his first solo album, “Living Between the Lines,” and his membership in punk legends, FEAR, guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Frank Meyer keeps his credits rolling. He joins us to discuss his songwriting process, collaborating with the Runaways' Cherie Currie, recording FEAR's latest album, “The Last Time,” jamming with Taylor Hawkins' son, and why Taylor Swift and Amy Winehouse are such pop-perfect inspirations. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

John 5Long before he played guitar for Motley Crue, Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson and others, John 5 was – and remains – a diehard KISS fan. Need proof? Welcome to Knights in Satan's Service – John's recently opened, Los Angeles-based KISS museum featuring his personal, lifetime collection from the hottest band in the world. From original boots and belts to Gene Simmons' blood-stained “KISS Alive!” glove, John's mountain of memorabilia is larger than life. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Jizzy PearlSinger, author, YouTuber and rock'n'roll martyr Jizzy Pearl joins us to discuss his new album, “Punk Rock Fiesta.” We also learn about his insightful and humorous YouTube channel (JPearlTV), writing books, hanging from the Hollywood sign, singing for Love/Hate, Quiet Riot, L.A. Guns and Ratt, and that time he and Zakk Wylde got into a drunken fight.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Johnny KellyHe was a mailman, mechanic and almost a cop until music took priority against the wishes of his mother (and to the delight of his rocker Dad). Drummer Johnny Kelly joins us to discuss his latest project, Sun Dont Shine, his early years with Andrew “Dice” Clay (say what?), success with Type O Negative, including tours with Nine Inch Nails (dismal) and Motley Crue (better), plus his ongoing gig with Quiet Riot. This might be one of our favorite episodes and not just because he got to tell his Mom, “I'm going out with Hookers & Blow.”Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Rowan RobertsonAt age 17, guitarist Rowan Robertson was hired by Ronnie James Dio to record the “Lock Up the Wolves” album and tour the world. His first gig was opening for Metallica, but his grand entrance was straight out of “Spinal Tap!” He joins us to discuss his time with Dio, his subsequent bands Violet's Demise (featuring singer Oni Logan), DC4 and Bang Tango. We also learn the importance of his father's and friends' unwavering belief, his current gig in the all-star Vegas production, Raiding the Rock Vault, and why Jimmy Bain endearingly called him “Mr. Vomit.”Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Angry AndersonFive decades of rock'n'roll has left him scarred for life – and he wouldn't have it any other way! Legendary Rose Tattoo singer Angry Anderson joins us to discuss the band's new single, “Hard Road,” plans for an upcoming album, a farewell to touring, thoughts on life, his massive 1986 solo ballad, “Suddenly,” boozing with ZZ Top and why his upcoming tattoo will surely be a pain in the ass.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Bevis M. GriffinAs an African-American glam rocker during the 1970s, Bevis M. Griffin broke barriers and brought like-minded people together in Austin's burgeoning music scene. He joins us to share his journey from Los Angeles to Texas and onward to New York City where he befriended Living Colour guitarist Vernon Reid and helped establish the Black Rock Coalition to advocate for black musicians.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Dirty HoneyAs an unsigned band in 2019, Dirty Honey made history when they drove the rock'n'roll bullet train to the top of the charts. In 2025, they still can't find the brakes! Singer Marc LaBelle and guitarist John Notto join us to discuss their new live album, “Mayhem and Revelry,” the accompanying four-part video series, their favorite live albums, plus words of wisdom and encouragement from Mark Tremonti and the Black Crowes.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Dangerous Toys: Metal Hall of Fame IntroOn Jan. 22, 2025, Dangerous Toys joined Twisted Sister, Saxon, Triumph, Armored Saint, Judas Priest, Anthrax and many others in the Metal Hall of Fame. Our co-host and Dangerous Toys singer Jason McMaster shares his experience at the ceremony in Anaheim, CA, and is joined by Austin filmmaker Budro Partida whose Pennyrock Productions crew was there to capture footage. From Mark Geary's kitchen to the Metal Hall of Fame. Not bad for a bunch of kids from Texas.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Ginger WildheartHe's one of the most prolific and creatively uncompromised rock musicians of the past 30 years -- and he's far from finished. Ginger Wildheart joins us to discuss The Wildhearts' new album, “Satanic Rites of the Wildhearts,” his soul-bearing songwriting process, his history with Michael Monroe, Courtney Love and Brides of Destruction, plus that time Mick Ronson turned up to solo on The Wildhearts 1993 debut album, “Earth Vs. The Wildhearts.” We also revisit an on-stage memory with Motorhead and that time our own “Metal Dave” added a guest voice to Ginger's 2005 solo album, “Valor Del Corazon.”Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Art Villarreal of S.A. SlayerS.A. Slayer was one of Central Texas' most celebrated underground metal bands until its final chapter in 1984. With recent news of reunion gigs booked at the 2025 Hell's Heroes and Keep It True festivals, we caught up with guitarist Art Villarreal for an update and history lessons, including the highly collectible 1983 “Prepare to Die” EP, his time in Karion, the regional metal contingent, South Texas Legion, and why San Antonio was fertile ground for a faster, harder, more evil style of metal.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Kenny HickeyHe earned gold and platinum with the murky metal of Type O Negative before forging new paths with Seventh Void, Silvertomb and touring stints with Danzig and Kingdom of Sorrow. Today, guitarist/vocalist Kenny Hickey fronts doom metal supergroup Sun Dont Shine featuring Type O drummer Johnny Kelly, Crowbar/Down guitarist/vocalist Kirk Windstein and original Down bassist Todd Strange. He joins us for a career retrospective including a breakout tour with Motley Crue, his brotherhood with Pantera, that Playgirl magazine thing and how the influences of Elton John, the Beatles, Black Sabbath and Ace Frehley coalesce into Sun Dont Shine.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Kerry KingHe is risen and still reigns as the King of thrash-metal brutality. Guitarist Kerry King joins us to discuss his new album, “From Hell I Rise,” his immortal legacy with Slayer, his infamous nail gauntlet, meeting his musical heroes, his favorite Oakland Raider, the chances of another Slayer album and why he's happy being the AC/DC of thrash.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Patrick KennisonWhen he's not rocking stages as lead guitarist in Lita Ford's band, Patrick Kennison is prolific in his own right as the frontman for Heaven Below and co-guitarist/co-vocalist in an acoustic duo alongside his wife, Nikki Stringfield of the Iron Maidens. He joins us to discuss an upcoming tour supporting Marty Friedman, the “Ghost Notes” EP with wife Nikki and the upcoming Heaven Below album, “The Majestic Twelve.” We also learn about a cease-and-desist from Metallica, a Nine Inch Nails audition and how Rob Zombie lured him out to Hollywood more than 20 years ago.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Tony Dolan: Venom Inc.As frontman for Venom Inc., Tony Dolan relishes his role of serving the devil his due (quite the dichotomy considering his sweet and funny demeanor). He joins us for an impromptu history lesson (who knew?) and thoroughly engaging discussions on his upbringing, the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, his early days in Atomkraft, his tenure with black metal kings, Venom, and how the former morphed into Venom Inc. based on a T-shirt design! Helluva guest, this one!Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Bob Catlin SA SlayerS.A. Slayer was one of Central Texas' most celebrated underground metal bands until its final chapter in 1984 (Jason calls them the Texas version of Mercyful Fate). With recent news of reunion gigs booked at the 2025 Hell's Heroes and Keep It True festivals, we caught up with guitarist Bob Catlin for an update and history lessons, including the infamous 1984 Slayer vs. Slayer gig, the highly collectible 1983 “Prepare to Die” EP, his foray into industrial metal with Evil Mothers and Pigface, and how former S.A. Slayer singer Steve Cooper was the coolest cat in the room.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Bob DaisleyDespite repeated efforts to scrub his name from the history books, bassist, composer and lyricist Bob Daisley is universally celebrated (and rightfully so) as a creative force behind some of heavy metal's most defining songs and albums (you've heard of “Crazy Train,” eh?). He joins us to discuss the writing and recording of “Blizzard of Ozz,” “Diary of a Madman,” “Bark at the Moon” and other albums that made Ozzy Osbourne a superstar. We also discuss his theory behind the fatal Randy Rhoads plane crash; the inspiration of Jimi Hendrix; his time in Rainbow and Uriah Heep; his book, “For Facts Sake;” and that time Bon Scott bummed a beer, but left behind some cash like a gentleman. Special photo thanks to Richard Galbraith and Alan Perry

Krusher JouleHis graphic design work can be found on albums by Ozzy Osbourne, Iron Maiden and Black Sabbath, among others. He's also done work for Motorhead, Hawkwind and the mighty Kerrang! Magazine (he designed the iconic logo). Steve “Krusher” Joule joins us to discuss his battles with Sharon Osbourne and Don Arden, how his work on “Diary of a Madman” was deemed satanic, why the gatefold to Iron Maiden's “Live After Death” nearly made his eyes glaze over and how Black Sabbath's “Born Again” went from a speed-fueled, lost-cause disaster to a shockingly approved, love/hate success. And to think it all started with Blondie?!

2024 Year-in-ReviewWith thanks to our viewers and listeners, Dave and Jason look back at memorable guests, albums and concerts from 2024.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Nick BowcottHe promised to “See You in Hell” in 1983 and we all welcomed the warning with horns held high. Grim Reaper guitarist Nick Bowcott joins us to discuss his heavy metal heyday; his post-Reaper career as a music columnist and gear brand ambassador; his audition for Iron Maiden (pre-Dennis Stratton); how a broken leg paid for his first guitar (his signature Union Jack Yamaha); his friendship with Dimebag Darrell; a memorable chat with Randy Rhoads; why he shaved his head; and that time Dave Grohl surprised him by naming a deep cut as his favorite Grim Reaper song. You will not meet a more passionate, heavy metal lifer.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Michael WiltonIt's hard to overstate the jaw-dropping impact of Queensryche's 1983 self-titled EP and the subsequent catalog of prog-metal classics, including “The Warning,” “Rage for Order,” “Operation: Mindcrime” and “Empire.” Guitarist Michael “Whip” Wilton joins us to discuss the band's early years, “The Origins” tour, his new solo album, “Vol. 1,” the inspiration of Eddie Van Halen and the day singer Todd LaTorre floored everyone in the room with his beyond-belief vocals. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

AI in Art & Music with Claudio Bergamin How far is too far when it comes to AI in art and music? Paranormal and heavy metal artist Claudio Bergamin (Judas Priest, Ignitor, Burning Witches) joins us to debate the pros and cons of human creativity interacting with AI. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Ozzy in Hall of FameFor all its good intentions, Ozzy Osbourne's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction was not without its oversights. We discuss Ozzy's celebrated career, the induction ceremony and the overlooked names who helped pave the path to his successful solo career.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Ronnie SimmonsHe's played guitar with Rose Tattoo, Faster Pussycat and Richie Ramone – which automatically triples his cool factor (although he's too modest to say so himself). Ronnie Simmons joins us from Australia to discuss his latest band, Ronnie Simmons and the Redback Spiders, lessons learned from Angry Anderson, Taime Downe and Richie Ramone, plus jamming with Slash and falling in love with America.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Sean PierceStanding 6'6” and swinging a flaming guitar, Sean Pierce was hard to miss with New York glam punks, the Toilet Boys. He joins us to for a hilarious retelling of the band's countless misadventures, including indiscretions with gunpowder, opening for Guns ‘N Roses, going broke on tour with Red Hot Chili Peppers, ticking off Lemmy and Dee Snider (before making amends), fistfights with fans, pyro mishaps, a broken nose, go-go dancing to pay the rent, procuring party favors and “birds” for various rock stars and how being a punk-rock parent allows him to relive his youthful rebellion (within reason, of course). Whew! It's nonstop entertainment with this guy!Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Billy ChainsawReturning with their latest album, “Horns and Hammers,” Texas metal warlords Ignitor are once again battle-ready. Bassist Billy Chainsaw joins us to discuss the album's inspired chemistry, the cover of Saxon's “Machine Gun,” artwork by renowned artist Claudio Bergamin (Judas Priest) and the frighteningly fantastic origins of his nickname. Ignitor singer and co-host Jason McMaster also shares the humorous inspiration of a fruity flavored breakfast cereal. Only here on the Talk Louder Podcast!Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Paul Di'Anno TributeWith the recent passing of former Iron Maiden singer Paul Di'Anno, Dave and Jason pay tribute to the man whose heavy metal contributions cannot be overstated. RIP, Paul.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Marc StoraceIn 1982, Krokus went Boom! on the strength of the must-have, hard rock album, “One Vice at a Time.” Front and center was vocalist Marc Storace whose powerfully gritty voice added feral menace to the music's primal beat. He joins us to discuss his upcoming Storace album, “Crossfire;” how he joined Krokus in time for the band's fourth album, “Metal Rendez-Vous;” his missed opportunity to witness Rob Halford's guest appearance on Krokus' “Ready to Burn;” why he didn't join AC/DC; and what a thrill it was to watch the “Headhunter” album turn his little band from Switzerland into international rock stars. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Nasty RonnieBack with their first new album in 20 years, Nasty Savage still slams hard. Vocalist Nasty Ronnie gives us a tour of the “Jeopardy Room” and explains how the latest lineup honors the past while feeding the bottomless pit of his tireless imagination.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Blaze BayleyHe realized his dreams as the singer for Wolfsbane until a successful Iron Maiden audition launched him beyond his wildest. Now a long-time and highly-prolific artist in his own right, Blaze Bayley joins us to discuss his latest album, “Circle of Stone,” how Ronnie James Dio inspired him to quit his hotel job, his eternal gratitude toward his fans (whose steadfast loyalty carried him through a recent heart attack) and the lifelong lessons learned from Maiden bassist Steve Harris and famed producer, Brendan O'Brien. You won't meet a more enthusiastic or appreciative bloke.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Richie StottsAs a founding member of shock-rock, punk-metal band, The Plasmatics, guitarist Richie Stotts generated enough notoriety to last 10 lifetimes. He joins us to discuss blowing up cars, smashing TVs, chain-sawing guitars, touring with KISS, merging punk and metal, and that stunt involving chickens that didn't go so well. PS. He's a really nice guy and no one was hurt while recording this episode.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Marty FriedmanFrom his early beginnings in Deuce, Hawaii and Cacophony to worldwide acclaim with Megadeth and a celebrated solo career, Marty Friedman has established himself as an undisputed, world-class guitar virtuoso. He joins us to discuss latest album, “Drama,” his upcoming autobiography, “Dreaming Japanese,” (don't believe all you've read about Megadeth) and his respect for techno thrash-metal pioneers, Watchtower. He also reveals a love for the Ramones and tells us why his Ozzy audition was much better-suited to Zakk Wylde. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Mark TornilloReturning for a second time to the Talk Louder Podcast, Accept vocalist Mark Tornillo checks in from the road while touring with KK's Priest on the aptly titled Full Metal Assault Tour. Join us as we discuss Accept's latest album, “Humanoid,” the infamous 1984 Judas Priest gig at Madison Square Garden (Mark was there, but had nothing to do with it, Your Honor), his favorite Accept deep cut and why a rolled-up towel is his secret weapon. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Neil ZlozowerHe was the trusted, inner-circle photographer friend who captured iconic shots of Van Halen, Motley Crue, Guns N' Roses and countless others on their wild rides to fame. Legendary photographer Neil Zlozower joins us for a rollercoaster ride through his colorful history, including early photos of KISS, Aerosmith and Rush, the heyday of Hollywood's glam-metal scene, an awkward meeting with Tom Waits and how his unfiltered, high-energy approach always brings out the rock-star attitude. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Ron KeelIt's Ron Keel's world and we're just living in it. From Steeler, Keel and Black Sabbath to southern rock and country, Ron Keel captures the many sounds of his career on new album, “KEELWORLD.” He joins us to discuss the new album, past history, working with Gene Simmons, his short-lived (but contractually ongoing?) Black Sabbath gig and the irresistible qualities of “'80s cheese.” Oh, there's also an early Pantera connection. Saddle up! It's a fun ride. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Michael SweetOn the eve of releasing new album, “When We Were Kings,” Stryper frontman Michael Sweet joins us to discuss his vocal technique (thanks, Rob Halford!), the decadent days of Roxx Regime, that time Stryper was billed with Slayer and touring as a co-lead vocalist and guitarist for rock legends, Boston. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Johnny GoudieHis alternative, pop-rock band, Goudie, was signed by Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich who was impressed enough to release the album “Peep Show” in 2000. Besides his namesake band, Johnny Goudie has also made a name for himself with the Austin-based bands, Mr. Rocket Baby and Skyrocket, among others. Since 2011, he's hosted the “How Did I Get Here?” podcast, which is a question worth asking considering his Lars connection and work with members of the Go-Go's, Fastball, the BoDeans and others. He joins us to discuss all this and more.Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Bad MarriageBad Marriage guitarist Mike Fitz and newcomer Tommy Skeoch (ex-Tesla) join us discuss the band's new chemistry, past history, an upcoming tour with Vandenberg, how a metal detector inspired a new song and that time Eddie Money kicked open their dressing room door to praise the band's name in his best (unintentional) Rodney Dangerfield voice. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten

Rick VenturaFeatured on Riot's seminal hard rock/heavy metal albums, “Fire Down Under” and “Restless Breed,” guitarist Rick Ventura was poised for stardom on the strength of high-profile tours with Rush, Black Sabbath, Sammy Hagar and Rainbow. He also had the immense respect of his peers (Hello, Lars Ulrich!). So, what happened? Sharpen your swords and pour some tequila as we dig into Rick's storied past, his new music with Riot Act, the story behind Riot's oft-maligned album covers and the heartfelt humility of leaving his mark. Created and Produced by Jared Tuten