Decibel Geek Podcast

Before the fire, before the blood, before the bombs, the boots, the makeup, and the myth… there was a struggling New York band trying to find its way. This week, we go Before the Thunder with Lew Linet — the man who witnessed Wicked Lester evolve into KISS. He saw Gene Klein become Gene Simmons, Stanley Eisen become Paul Stanley, Peter Crisscuola become Peter Criss, and Paul Frehley become Ace. From the shelved Epic Records album to the early club grind at The Daisy, Lew was there before the world understood what was coming. This is the story of rejection, reinvention, and persistence — told by someone who saw the lightning strike before the thunder rolled. He later built a career in the automotive industry, carrying those early lessons in perseverance into the training work he still shares today. We hope you enjoy Before the Thunder: A Conversation with Lew Linet and SHARE with a friend! Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcasts family. Contact Us! Rate, Review, and Subscribe in iTunes

This week on Geekwire, we’re covering possible Poison 2027 live plans, Mötley Crüe’s American Idol appearance, and John 5 responding to backing-track rumors. We’ll also discuss Geddy Lee’s comments on drummers reaching out after Neil Peart’s passing, Geoff Tate’s unreleased autobiography, Chris Holmes ruling out W.A.S.P., and the upcoming Paul Di’Anno documentary. Plus, thoughts on new music from Anthrax and The Rolling Stones, and we remember legendary producer Jack Douglas. All that and more on this edition of Geekwire. 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 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! Comment Below Direct Download  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Radio Sucks Radio Show returns with a new batch of songs selected by Chris and Aaron. Chris’ picks focus on 2026 releases, including recent tracks from Tygers of Pan Tang, Crobot, Crown Lands, Rachel Bolan with Danko Jones, and Mustasch Aaron’s picks include a mix of older cuts and 2026 releases, ranging from Motochrist’s 2000 album 666-Pack to Vain’s 1995 album Fade, along with newer songs from Bakko, Sour Ops, and Bloodstain. It's a bunch of ear candy in this one. Enjoy! We hope you enjoy this episode 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 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! Comment Below Direct Download  The Radio Sucks Radio Show returns with a new batch of songs sele

Chris and Aaron are back with another edition of DBG Times, covering a fresh update on the Sebastian Bach / Monsters of Rock Cruise fallout, a look back at notable April rockstar deathdays, milestone album anniversaries, and a batch of new and upcoming rock and metal releases. Big stories, deep cuts, and plenty of side roads await… and much more! This episode opens with an update connected to Sebastian Bach’s recent meltdown, including added context straight from Stevie Rachelle. From there, the guys remember several names from rock history and rock-adjacent chaos, including Kurt Cobain, Layne Staley, Sam Kinison, Joey Ramone, and Peter Steele… and much more! The anniversary section revisits a wide range of albums hitting milestone birthdays in 2026, including releases from TOOL, Judas Priest, Temple of the Dog, Van Halen, Ramones, and The Rolling Stones. From classic metal to punk landmarks to Seattle history, there’s a lot to dig into… and much more! The new releases section checks in on fresh and upcomi

GeekWire 04.22.26 is packed with the usual mix of rock drama, reunion talk, tour news, and a few curveballs. This week we’re covering Ted Poley walking back his Sebastian Bach rant, new Slayer anniversary shows, Billy Corgan’s latest NWA move, KISS adding more live activity in Vegas, Alice Cooper hitting the road with a new guitarist, and more from the worlds of Poison, Iron Maiden, Accept, Motörhead, Blue Murder, and beyond. We also touch on one non-rock side story about the iPod making a comeback with listeners looking for a distraction-free music experience. Stories covered in this episode: Ted Poley takes the blame and says he regrets publicly going off on Sebastian Bach Slayer announces California and Minnesota shows celebrating 40 years of Reign In Blood Kyle Thomas says arguing over Pantera’s connection to Exhorder is pointless Billy Corgan lands a major TV deal for the National Wrestling Alliance Joel Hoekstra joins Stephen Pearcy’s solo band for the 2026 tour David Reece says he’

This week we dive into one of rock’s most hysterical and revealing cultural flashpoints: the Satanic Panic. From Robert Johnson crossroads mythology and Screamin’ Jay Hawkins to Black Sabbath, KISS, Iron Maiden, Ozzy, Slayer, and beyond, we trace how devil imagery, shock rock, media fearmongering, church protests, and moral crusades helped turn hard rock and metal into public enemy number one. We get into the Peters Brothers and the anti-rock movement, KISS concert protests, the PMRC hearing, the Filthy Fifteen, Richard Ramirez and AC/DC, the Judas Priest backmasking trial, Norwegian black metal church burnings, and the later scapegoating of Marilyn Manson after Columbine. We also follow the thread into more modern acts like Ghost, The Pretty Reckless, and Twin Temple, showing how Satanic imagery evolved from public scandal into branding, theater, provocation, and pop culture tradition. If you’ve ever wondered how rock music became the target of preachers, parents, politicians, and nightly news panic, this

This week on Geekwire, we dig into Vinnie Vincent’s latest bout of absurdity as he puts a $2 million price tag on his new album, while Ace Frehley’s legendary 1975 Les Paul heads to auction with a hefty expected sale price. We also cover a surprise Guns N’ Roses-related reunion performance at Rock For Jennifer and Charlie Benante’s thoughts on both a possible live album from Pantera and the direction of the upcoming Anthrax release. We also get into Blaze Bayley being added to the list of Iron Maiden members nominated for the Rock Hall, Bobby Blotzer calling for one last tour from Ratt’s classic lineup, and the sons of Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons releasing a new Stanley Simmons video while Paul pushes back on the nepotism talk. On top of that, Melissa Reese will miss the upcoming Guns N’ Roses tour, William Shatner teams with Rob Halford for a reworked Judas Priest classic, Rikki Rockett’s long-awaited memoir finally gets a release window, Ginger of The Wildhearts reveals a serious cancer diagnosis, and Ge

We're back to discuss the past, present, and future of rock with another issue of DBG Times! Rockstar Deathdays include Andrew Wood, Chuck Berry, AJ Pero, Dave Brockie, Taylor Hawkins, Randy Castillo, and Randy Rhoads. Album anniversaries this week include 5 years of Now & Then from Paul Stanley’s Soul Station, 20 years of Rob Zombie’s Educated Horses, 25 years of Just Push Play by Aerosmith, Every Six Seconds by Saliva, and Time Bomb by Buckcherry. Turning 30 is KISS Unplugged. Turning 40 are Metallica’s Master of Puppets, Van Halen’s 5150, Great White’s Shot in the Dark, and Ted Nugent’s Little Miss Dangerous. At 50 years, Judas Priest’s Sad Wings of Destiny, Thin Lizzy’s Jailbreak, and KISS Destroyer all hit major milestones. Turning 55 are Black Oak Arkansas’ debut, Jethro Tull’s Aqualung, and Humble Pie’s Rock On. New music covered this week includes releases from Black Stone Cherry, Gotthard, The Black Crowes, Exodus, Axel Rudi Pell, Tyketto, Black Label Society, Flea, Suzi Quatro, Lou Gramm, and D

We're back to discuss all the latest, greatest, and strangest happenings in the rock world with Geekwire! Here's what we're digging into this time: Sebastian Bach joins Twisted Sister with Dee Snider's full blessing, and the band also added Joey Cassata on drums for the upcoming shows. Jon Bon Jovi is still showing vocal struggles in public performance, this time during a Tony Robbins appearance. Zakk Wylde revealed the song that first made him want to pick up the guitar and explained his motivation for opening for Black Label Society. Reactivated Sister Sin has released “Drive,” only its second new single in 12 years. Metallica has added six more “Life Burns Faster” Sphere residency shows in Las Vegas. Mortgage brokers are standing by. A massive Ozzy Osbourne statue will be unveiled at Hellfest, while Sharon says Ozzfest will return in 2027. Members of Ace Frehley’s solo band have announced an Australian tour celebrating a late KISS legend. Geddy Lee says Anika Nilles didn’t click immediately, but by

We're back to take stock of one of the biggest bands to explode out of the 1980's as we decide The Best and Worst of Bon Jovi!  In this episode, we kick off Part 1 covering every studio album from the self-titled 1984 debut through 2002’s Bounce. The goal was simple: each of us picked one favorite and one least favorite track from every album — no live albums, no compilations — and let the arguments fall where they may. We start with Bon Jovi and 7800° Fahrenheit. These 2 first albums straddled the line between AOR vibes, solid riffs, keyboard overkill, and rushed timelines for recording. The discussion revolves around early identity, flashes of future greatness, and whether these records are overlooked gems or simply necessary growing pains. Then it’s into the arena-stratosphere era with Slippery When Wet and New Jersey, where a string of hits vaulted the band into stadiums and MTV dominance. We examine whether the massive singles define the albums or overshadow deeper cuts. The early ’90s shift begins w

We're back with the latest issue of the DBG Times! Here's what we're commemorating this time! ROCKSTAR DEATHDAYS We remember Sid Vicious, Tim Kelly, Big John Harte, Ty Longley, Mark Lanegan, and Bon Scott. 2026 ALBUM ANNIVERSARIES Ten years ago, Anthrax released For All Kings. Fifteen years ago, Orchid debuted with Capricorn. Thirty years ago brought Bruce Dickinson’s Skunkworks, Enuff Z’Nuff’s Peach Fuzz, and Deep Purple’s Purpendicular. Thirty-five years ago saw Queen’s Innuendo, Saigon Kick’s debut, and Great White’s Hooked. Forty years ago, Ozzy Osbourne released The Ultimate Sin and King Diamond launched his solo career with Fatal Portrait. Forty-five years ago included Judas Priest’s Point of Entry, Rush’s Moving Pictures, Riot’s Fire Down Under, and Iron Maiden’s Killers. Fifty and fifty-five years ago featured Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Gimme Back My Bullets, along with Cactus and Uriah Heep releases. NEW MUSIC New albums this month arrive from Tailgunner, Wicked Smile, Lily Löwe, The Hellacopters, B

This week on Geekwire, we dig into some big movement in the hard rock and metal world as Skid Row teams up with Sweetwater for a worldwide search for a brand-new singer — and yes, anyone with the pipes can throw their hat in the ring. We also hit comments from Slash, who explains how the Guns N' Roses recording process has always worked as a democracy behind the scenes, plus tour news as W.A.S.P. announces the “1984 to Headless” North American run with special guests KK's Priest. We discuss a tough update from the metal world as Twisted Sister cancels all 2026 reunion shows due to Dee Snider’s health challenges, and the reaction across the scene. Also in the mix: Manowar shares emotional words following news about Ross “The Boss,” Accept guitarist Philip Shouse unveils his debut EP, and Blaze Bayley explains why he’s stepping away from meet-and-greets at future shows. We check out a funny story from Chris Jericho involving Ozzy Osbourne, along with new music news from Donnie Vie signing to Steven Van Zand

In this episode, you’ll hear hard rock, glam, and metal bands absolutely duke it out, both with rival bands and with themselves. We dig into legendary external feuds like Guns N' Roses vs Mötley Crüe, where Axl Rose publicly challenged Vince Neil to a fistfight, and Metallica vs Winger, highlighted by Lars Ulrich literally throwing darts at a Winger poster. We also cover industry power struggles like Skid Row vs Bon Jovi, where refusing to stay an opening act allegedly led to blacklisting and some very public trash talk. The chaos doesn’t stop there, as plenty of bands turned on themselves in spectacular fashion. We break down Van Halen imploding across multiple eras, Dokken recording parts separately out of sheer hatred, and Ratt splintering into multiple touring versions while suing each other over the band name. You’ll also hear about long-running grudges involving Megadeth, internal dysfunction in KISS, and famously toxic relationships in bands like Enuff Z'Nuff—all proving that sometimes the biggest thr

This edition of the DBG Times covers a wide range of rock and metal history, along with notable Rockstar Deathdays honoring Phil Lynott, Neil Peart, Steve Clark, Eddie Clarke, Sylvain Sylvain, and John Sykes. Looking back 10 years to 2016, the show revisits releases from Black Sabbath and Megadeth, including Sabbath’s final studio-era material and Megadeth’s well-received return to a heavier, more classic sound. From 2001, we highlight Turn 21 by The Donnas, an album that helped solidify their identity and garner more recognition. Going back 30 years to 1996, the discussion includes albums from Accept and Mr. Big, reflecting a challenging era as traditional hard rock and metal faced shifting trends. At 35 years (1991), we touch on notable releases by David Lee Roth, Drivin' N Cryin', and Motörhead, showcasing the variety of sounds coming out of the early ’90s. Looking at 1986, we revisit Seventh Star by Black Sabbath and the long-delayed debut of White Lion, two releases with very different paths and out

We're back to cover all the latest, greatest, and stupidest rock news out there with Geekwire! Here's what's on our minds this time: Peter Criss responds publicly to Gene Simmons over recent “Beth” songwriting comments, calling Gene’s statements ridiculous and uncalled for. Rikki Rockett says Poison’s 2026 tour plans were scrapped after Bret Michaels allegedly pushed for a larger share of the money. Rockett also confirms he’ll perform Poison’s Look What The Cat Dragged In in full with The Rockett Mafia. John Corabi explains how he got the “Crabby” nickname and says it isn’t what most people assume. A posthumous John Sykes EP is coming, set for release through Golden Robot Records (editor note - recorded before Sykes family statment). Stephen Pearcy on his refusal to use backing tracks (and a wild story from Aaron on that subject). Angel announces a farewell tour planned for 2026–2027. The official Judas Priest documentary The Ballad Of Judas Priest is set to premiere at the Berlin International Film F

Chris &Aaron are back to kick off 2026 by looking back at the Best of 2025! Chris is bringing 10 great picks from artists such as Alice Cooper, Mammoth, The Hellacopters, Wings of Steel, Southern River Band, The Darkness, Wanted, The Wildhearts, and more! Aaron is countering 10 killer choices of his own including tracks by Enuff Z’Nuff, Peter Criss, Bonfire, Madhouse, Bat, Cheap Trick, Savage Master, and more! Along the way, we'll tell you what artists almost made the list, albums that were disappointments, and plenty of laughs.  It's a mega-long chunk of tunes and talk so strap in. We hope you enjoy Decibel Geek's Best of 2025 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 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! Clic

This week on Geekwire, Vinnie Vincent fires back at complaints about his high-priced music offerings, telling critics to “grow the f— up.” John Bush takes his Anthrax Celebration show to St. Charles, Illinois, spotlighting his era with the band. The original BulletBoys lineup returns to the stage together for the first time in four years. Peter Criss appears at Rough Trade in New York City to sign copies of his new solo album, drawing a big turnout from KISS fans. Yngwie Malmsteen calls out several former singers, accusing them of trying to capitalize on his name. Jane’s Addiction says the band has come together “one last time” to finally resolve internal issues. Steve Morse reflects on his exit from Deep Purple and admits some members were glad to see him go. And Geoff Tate reveals he’s about 85% finished with “Operation: Mindcrime III,” with producer John Moyer saying the first single is already strong. We hope you enjoy Geekwire and SHARE with a friend! Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Pod

We're back with a brand new issue of the DBG Times, covering the past present, and future of rock! ROCKSTAR DEATHDAYSThis issue pauses to remember some of rock’s most significant losses, honoring the legacies of John Lennon, Dimebag Darrell, Lemmy, Scott Weiland, Ray Gillen, Tommy Bolin, and Leslie West — artists whose music continues to echo through every corner of the genre. ALBUM ANNIVERSARIESWe take a tour through decades of releases celebrating birthdays this month, from classics to cult favorites. Highlights include AC/DC’s T.N.T., Queen’s Flash Gordon soundtrack, Blue Öyster Cult’s Club Ninja, Mr. Big’s reunion record What If…, KoRn’s See You on the Other Side, Yungblud’s Weird!, and milestone albums from T. Rex, Wishbone Ash, The Beatles, The Who, and more. It’s a snapshot of how many eras of rock are all intersecting at once. NEW MUSIC & UPCOMING RELEASESWe look ahead to what’s next, spotlighting upcoming releases tied to Peter Criss and new music on the horizon from Megadeth, Alter Bridge, Michae

This week on the Decibel Geek Podcast, Chris is hosting solo, leaning into a music-forward episode that features killer instrumentals; No Singer No Problem. This is NOT a shredder's episode; instead he's pulling from from across classic rock, hard rock, metal, and modern instrumental territory. Before diving in, Chris takes a moment to pay tribute to our late friend and former Decibel Geek staff member, Kate Thompson. Her love of music, dedication to the cause, and presence within the rock community are deeply missed, and this episode is dedicated in her memory. After a quick look back at listener feedback from the previous DBG Times episode and a new round of Geeks of the Week, the show shifts fully into instrumental mode. From an iconic Jeff Beck Group tune from the 60's to the shredder-ific heights scaled by Jason Becker and Criss Oliva to more moody, atomospheric tunes from Aerosmith, Russian Circles, and more, it's a solid mix of tunes. We hope you enjoy No Singer No Problem and SHARE with a friend!

This edition of the DBG Times looks back on the losses that shaped the rock world in the month of November, remembering Corey Smoot, Chuck Mosley, Malcolm Young, Kevin DuBrow, Hank Von Hell, Eric Carr, Freddie Mercury, George Harrison, and Tom Higgins (Klassik 78).  We also revisit a wide spread of album anniversaries, from Crazy World by Scorpions and Heartbreak Station by Cinderella to Under Lock and Key by Dokken, Come Out and Play by Twisted Sister, Delirious Nomad by Armored Saint, and Down for the Count by Y&T. The list rounds out with milestones from Helloween, Faith No More, Saxon, REO Speedwagon, Blondie, Queen, Deep Purple, and Tommy Bolin, each marking a distinct moment in rock history. On the new-release front, there’s a mix of returns, surprises, and collaborations, including Finger Eleven’s Last Night on Earth, Alcatrazz’s Prior Convictions, Aerosmith and Yungblud teaming up for One More Time, a Metallica tribute with No Life ‘til Leather, and new drops from Cheap Trick, Stryper, Midnight City