Decibel Geek Podcast

KISSMAS in July is now drawing to a close for 2014 and there were so many things we wanted to cover we figured, why not cover them all?   This week Aaron and Chris open up a KISS Grab Bag of topics to discuss. Listeners of the show submitted KISS-related subjects and your hosts give their take on those topics this week. Everything from discussion of KISS' merchandising reaching into things like Hello Kitty and arena football to favorite/least favorite albums, stages, costumes, songs, and much much more is covered in this free-form discussion. We also give an update on Vinnie Vincent, plans for more KISS-related shows later in the year and a track by track discussion of the Ace Frehley album 'Space Invader.'   A whole lot to cover to round out KISSMAS in JULY so take it all in and enjoy our talk on the Hottest Band in the Land!   Buy Music!   KISS ACE FREHLEY   Geeks of the Week: I-am Hoops, Joe Lascon, Kal Hinz, Brad Kalmanson, David Alpizar, Brian Odermatt, Rhys Lett, Andy Lafon, Chris Karam,

While Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons are the 2 constant mainstays in KISS, the lead guitar position has faced the most changes of their 40 year history.   This week Aaron and Chris dissect and spin their Top 10 favorite KISS guitar solos. Aaron takes the Ace Frehley route for his list and Chris pulls his 10 favorite from the combined tenure of Vinnie Vincent, Mark St. John, Bruce Kulick, and Tommy Thayer. There's some very interesting and unexpected picks. Let us know what YOUR top 10 KISS guitar solos are by commenting below or on the facebook fan page (www.facebook.com/decibelgeek).   Buy Music!   KISS   Contact Us!   Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Call us on the Hotline! (540) DBGeek - 1 or (540) 324-3351 Support Us! Shop on Amazon!---------->>>>>>>>> (a percentage of sales from that link to the right goes back to supporting Decibel Geek!)   Stream Us!   Stitcher Radio Spreaker TuneIn   Geeks of the

Some of the most memorable KISS discussions we've had are the ones we've conducted with crew members. This week's guest should prove to continue that tradition.   Former KISS crew member Ken Barr joins Chris and Aaron this week for an in-depth discussion of a very transitional phase in the Hottest Band in the Land's career. Ken was a drum tech/guitar tech/carpenter for KISS from 1992 - 1996. His tenure included the Revenge tour, Alive III, the 1995 convention tour, MTV Unplugged, Reunion tour rehearsals, and the 1996 KROQ Weenie Roast. Lots of stories about the personalities behind the members of KISS, stories from the road, and Ken's thoughts on what the band is doing today.   Our talk with Ken today is just the tip of the iceberg of experiences that he's had throughout his career in the music industry. For much more, check out his book We Are the Road Crew at http://theroadcrew.wordpress.com/ Buy Music!   KISS   More from Ken Barr!   Official Blog HERE Amazon Store HERE Official Youtube HERE

This week we kick of the 2014 edition of KISSMAS in July. During these next four weeks we'll be focusing solely on KISS-releated episodes and talking to KISS-related guests; and today's is a good one!   Sher Bach has been in close quarters with the Hottest Band in the Land during different eras of their storied career. Sher was married to a member of NY glitter scene contemporaries The Harlots of 42nd Street. She was also a performer in her own right; working with another New York act; Ruby & the Rednecks. In this long-form discussion, Sher details her memories of the rock scene at the time including her attendance at pivotal shows in KISS' career at venues such as Coventry and the Hotel Diplomat.   A few years later, KISS was on top of the world and churning out enough anthems, toys, and belt buckles to satisfy the population. Her longtime friendship to KISS manager Bill Aucoin strengthened in 1977 when she went to work for Aucoin Management.  Bill Aucoin   In this discussion, Sher gives details o

Chris and Aaron tend to differ on many of the bands that they like. The dichotomy of those tastes have helped broaden their own musical palette over the course of doing this show. But one band that they both agree on is Anthrax.   This week Chris and Aaron are joined by Mars Attacks and Talking Metal host Victor M. Ruiz for a discussion of the first decade of Anthrax (1981-1992). In this discussion Chris, Aaron, and Victor go through the anthrax discography from their Neil Turbin-fronted debut, Fistful of Metal, through the final release of the Joey Belladonna era; Attack of the Killer B's.   Also included in this in-depth discussion are clips from the hosts favorite songs from albums of this era including Spreading the Disease, Persistence of Time, and the genre-bending I'm the Man EP among others.   Other topics covered in part 1 of this Anthrax discussion include rumors that Eddie Trunk was a key player in the removal of Neil Turbin as lead vocalist, touring troubles brought on by numerous problems

There's a lot of hard-working, stressed-out people in this world. One of those people happens to co-host this show.   This week Aaron Camaro gives Chris a much-needed week off and produces and hosts this week's episode all by himself. The theme this week is Love Fest and Aaron pays tribute to Chris and others that deserve credit for the hard work they put in. In between, he spins some uplifting tracks from artists such as Motorhead, KISS, Warrant, Supersuckers, ELO, and more. C'mon get happy and enjoy the smooth sounds of Aaron Camaro and some inspirational tunes.   Buy Music!   Motorhead KISS Warrant Red Hot Chili Peppers Supersuckers E.L.O.   Contact Us!   Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Call us on the Hotline! (540) DBGeek - 1 or (540) 324-3351   Support Us! Shop on Amazon!---------->>>>>>>>> (a percentage of sales from that link to the right goes back to supporting Decibel Geek!)   Stream Us!   S

Chuck Garric is no stranger to large crowds and big tours. His bass duties for such rock and metal legends as Dio, LA Guns, and Alice Cooper have given him quite a resume. But one thing that stays the same after playing in front of millions of people over the years; Chuck Garric is still the same music fan he was as a kid.   When not on tour, Garric resides in Nashville, TN as part of the long line of rockers that have made their way to the Southeastern hotbed of music. On a random weeknight you can see Chuck, along with members/ex-members of Motley Crue, Thin Lizzy, Accept and many others jamming out to some of the songs that got them hooked on rock and roll in their early years.   Aaron and Chris were fortunate enough to grab a coffee with Chuck just before he left for Europe to hit some big festivals with Alice Cooper as well as gearing up to co-headline with Motley Crue on their final tour.   In this discussion, Chuck goes back to his Lake Tahoe, CA roots to describe his musical upbringing, the a

This week we bring you volume 17 of our Radio Sucks Radio Show series. If you're new to the show, it's basically us spinning some tracks, old and new, that we think you'll enjoy. Don't expect to hear the same singles that have been run into the ground by classic rock radio. Expect to hear deep cuts from great veteran bands as well as awesome new tracks that the radio guys in suits and ties continue to ignore.     This volume's selection includes classics from UFO, Sea Hags, D.A.D. and Legs Diamond along with brand new tracks from Rubicon Cross, California Breed and Rival Sons. Also featured are killer cuts from Kyng, Mutha's Day Out and Rearview Ghost.   Buy Music!  (click artist name to purchase via Amazon!)   Legs Diamond D.A.D. Sea Hags California Breed Rubicon Cross Rival Sons Kyng Rearview Ghost UFO Mutha's Day Out   Contact Us!   Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Call us on the Hotline! (540) DBGee

Last week Aaron Camaro went solo with his one on one talk with Mike Tramp. This week Chris decides to strike out on his own with an in-person hangout with some legends of the Great White North.   The Killer Dwarfs were spending a day in Nashville at Sirius Hair Nation deejay Luc Carl’s “metal farm” and Chris took the opportunity to hang out and pester the guys with a microphone between beers. What you’ll hear in the first half of this episode is Chris (and writer Billy Hardaway) hanging out on a patio with the Dwarfs and Luc Carl while chatting about an assortment of stuff including their mutual love for Alice Cooper, touring with Saxon in the 80’s, and what happened to that can of Cuddly Cola from the ‘We Stand Alone’ video.   The second half of the show features a one on one talk that Chris has with Darrell about his time with the band Laidlaw, his other band Automan, getting back together with the Dwarfs, sharing a studio with KISS in 1992 and what Dwarfs fans can expect on their current tour in sup

It's been 27 years since White Lion broke through into the public consciousness with 1987's 'Pride' album. Featuring a solid rhythm section of bassist James Lomenzo and drummer Greg D'Angelo joining virtuoso guitarist Vito Bratta, the band was fronted by a platinum blonde singer that not only had the right look for the era but also had a damn good singing voice that would reverberate through arenas across the world during the late 80's glam rock takeover. That singer is Mike Tramp.   The Danish-born front man fronted White Lion through a very successful run of albums from the previously-mentioned 'Pride' album through 1991's 'Mane Attraction.' The Seattle grunge movement eventually commanded a bigger spotlight and bands of White Lion's ilk were pushed aside; but Mike Tramp perservered, going on to form Freak of Nature and then release eight solo albums with 2013's 'Cobblestone Street ' being his most recent.   Mike Tramp has been on a US tour in 2014. Aided by only his guitar and a son he's been reconne

Sometimes going back on your word can be a good thing......   This week we present you with the 5th installment of our Vinnie Vincent Special. Joining us for this discussion is drummer Andre Labelle of The Sky. Andre was tapped by Vinnie to drum on the still-not-officially released album Guitars from Hell that was recorded over a period of 1989 through 1992. In this discussion you'll hear the whole story of how the project was started, the interesting ways that Vinnie would decide on equipment,recording techniques, and the circumstances that led to the album being shelved.   During this discussion Andre also shares some interesting insight into Vinnie's brief reconciliation with Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons and his work with them on the then-in-production 'Revenge' album as well as Vinnie's influence going beyond the songwriting for the album.   Guitars from Hell has leaked in-part online over the past few years in the form of rough demos; many of which feature Vincent re-recording all the tracks usi

This week Aaron and Chris launch the first installment of a brand new series for the Decibel Geek podcast with Albums Unleashed. The stories behind the songs, circumstances, and creative process from a major player in an album's creation. And to start things off, we're covering Alice Cooper's DaDa album with special guest Dick Wagner.   Released in 1983, DaDa was, for all intents and purposes, dead on arrival due to being the final album in Cooper's contract with Warner Brothers as well as the out-of-the-box style of songs. Part art-rock, part esoteric/theatrical concept, DaDa's synthesizer-infused production combined with a healthy amount of humor crossed with dark subject matter left 1983 audiences confused; and they weren't the only ones.   The early 80's were a self-professed "blackout" period for Alice Cooper with the rocker going as far as saying that he barely even remembers the songwriting process or production of this album. Cooper's lack of recollection has led many die-hard Cooper fans to cre

For a certain segment of the population, April 20th is a very significant day. If you don't partake of a sticky green plant that has certain psychological stimulating qualities, you don't know what I'm talking about.   This week Aaron and Chris celebrate 420 in the most fitting Decibel Geek way; by spinning some of their favorite rocking songs that pay tribute to the enjoyment of ganja (aka marijuana). Tracks from Bulletboys, Enuff Z'nuff, Ace Frehley, Motley Crue, Black Sabbath and more are included. Light 'em up!   Buy Music! (click artist name to purchase!)   Motley Crue Enuff Z'nuff Steppenwolf Bulletboys Ace Frehley Rush GWAR Jimmie's Chicken Shack Great White Black Sabbath   Contact Us!   Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Facebook Fan Page Follow on Twitter Follow on Instagram E-mail Us Call us on the Hotline! (540) DBGeek - 1 or (540) 324-3351   Support Us! Shop on Amazon!---------->>>>>>>>> (a percentage of sales from that link to the right goes back to supp

Every year, the high seas get rocked a little harder during this time of year and 2014 was no exception. The Monsters of Rock Cruise featured around 40 Decibel Geek-worth artists performing rotating sets in the Bahamas aboard the massive MSC Divina cruise ship and our very own Rich "The Meister" Dillon was on board to take it all in.   Rich "Meister" Dillon came through Nashville on his way back from the Monsters of Rock cruise to join Aaron, Chris, and Decibel Geek writer Andy Lafon for a discussion of all of the music, atmosphere, and debauchery that took place on the high seas. Underscoring this conversation is music from artists aboard the ship such as Cinderella, Killer Dwarfs, Winger, Red Dragon Cartel, and a bunch more. Dig it!   Monsters of Rock Cruise Official Website Monsters of Rock Cruise Offical Facebook Page Monsters of Rock Cruise Official Twitter   Contact Us!   Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Fan Page Follow on Twitter E-mail Us Comment Below     Call us on t

If you're anywhere near America during this time of year, the term "March Madness" seems to permeate the air. The NCAA basketball tournament becomes the sports centerpiece for the entire month of March and sports and non-sports fans escape into office pools of their own brackets in an attempt to prove their sports knowledge. The musical equivalent of this takes place on (crappy) radio stations across the land; with stations assigning bands in the bracket spots and letting listeners vote on who should be crowned the champ.    This week Aaron and Chris take a rock band bracket list and go head-to-head in a discussion/argument over what happens when you pit these bands against each other. Some of these matchups and picks will anger you, make you laugh, question our sanity. Either way, it's a fun, laid-back talk between Aaron and Chris and more indisputable evidence that radio absolutely, positively sucks.   Geeks of the Week: Facebook: Matt Ashcraft, Todd Cunningham, Chris Karam, Rick Shaw, Derik Novak,

We're back this week with part 1 of our 2 part 1994 Year in Review. In this episode, Aaron and Chris take a look at the facts, figures, cultural events, and new stories that shaped 1994 with an excellent soundtrack as a compliment. Lots to cover!   Click artist name to purchase on Amazon!   Intro Song: Buckethead– Welcome to Bucketheadland – Giant Robot   Geeks of the week: Facebook: East Side Gamblers, Derik Novak, Matt Ashcraft, Jason Thomas Broadrick, Gino Ames, Chris Karam, Union, Heavy Rock   Twitter: Steve, MusicMagsAndWax, theprettyfilth, John Corabi, Collins Facts & Figures: Average Monthly Rent $533.00 Cost of a gallon of Gas$1.09 Loaf of Bread $1.59   January: January 6 – In Detroit, Michigan, Nancy Kerrigan is clubbed on the right leg by an assailant, under orders from figure skating rival Tonya Harding's ex-husband. January 11 - The Superhighway Summit is held at UCLA's Royce Hall. It is the first conference to discuss the growing information superhighway and is presided over by

We teased last week that we'd be doing a year in review this week. Unfortunately, time and sickness played factors in us getting our research finished in time. The year in review shows take a lot of preparation.   This week, Aaron and Chris bring you volume 16 of the Raido Sucks Radio Show as they spin new tracks by Winger, Heavy Tiger, and The East Side Gamblers alongside rocking tracks from KISS, Betty Blowtorch, Union, Hair of the Dog and much more.   Buy Music! (click artist name to purchase!)   East Side Gamblers Union Winger Hair of the Dog Santa Cruz Betty Blowtorch Heavy Tiger Sugar Ray KISS Skid Row   Contact Us!   Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Fan Page Follow on Twitter E-mail Us Comment Below     Call us on the Hotline! (540) DBGeek - 1 or (540) 324-3351 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The winter of 2013-2014 has been absolutely brutal in the United States and outlying territories. Worse than that, if feels like it's never going to end! March is here and there are still places that have plenty of snow on the ground. It's enough to make even the most cheerful of Decibel Geeks feel depressed and cry out "Winter Sucks!"   This week we're joined by guest host Mitch Lafon for a discussion of some of our favorite Winter-themed songs (ie. songs with words like "cold", "ice", "frozen" in the title). In this hour-long discussion, Aaron, Chris and Mitch discuss and spin tracks by Cinderella, Aerosmith, Rainbow, London, LA Guns, Metallica and much more to help remedy your cold weather blues. Mitch also shares his reasoning for recently leaving the popular Three Sides of the Coin podcast and lets us in on his plans for the future.   Mitch Lafon on Facebook Mitch Lafon on Youtube   Buy Music! (click artist name to purchase!) Tora Tora Rainbow Cinderella David Lee Roth Aerosmith Van Halen

After two weeks of discussing a British Invasion, we decided this week to discuss another kind of British Invasion and Chris and Aaron are joined by Tim Henderson from Bravewords.com for an in-depth discussion of the entire catalog of heavy metal legends Judas Priest.   In this long-form discussion, Aaron, Chris and Tim discuss the recorded output of the iconic Judas Priest catalog; starting with 1974's Rocka Rolla and chronicling each album through 2008's Nostradamus and their hopes for the upcoming album currently being created.   There's a lot of twists and turns in this conversation with each host bringing a different perspective due to differing levels of Priest fandom. We hope die-hard Priest fans enjoy this trip down memory land and we also hope this coversation helps turn on listeners not as familiar with Judas Priest's catalog and hisotry to pick up and discover one of metal's most iconic bands. Enjoy!   Visit Bravewords.com for the best in rock and metal news!   Buy Music! (click album ti

This week the Decibel Geek podcast stays Fab as Aaron and Chris spin some of their favorite Beatles songs covered by some of the favorite rock & metal artists.   The Beatles - Covered in Metal is an hour plus of  rock and metal artists putting their own spin on some Fab 4 classics. Tracks from Kip Winger, Type O Negative, Me First & the Gimme Gimme's, Tesla and more!   Buy Music! (click artist/album title to purchase!)   Whitesnake - Trouble   Tesla - Real to Reel   Jeff Healey - Cover To Cover   Butchering the Beatles: A Headbashing Tribute Me First and the Gimme Gimmes - Ruin Jonny's Bar Mitzvah Gilby Clarke - Hangover   Running Wild - Victory   Type O Negative - World Coming Down   Contact Us!   Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes Join the Fan Page Follow on Twitter E-mail Us Comment Below     Call us on the Hotline! (540) DBGeek - 1 or (540) 324-3351 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices