Posts in Metal Heads Podcast

Metalheads Podcast Episode 97

Welcome to a brand new decade of the Metalheads Podcast! We kick off 2020 by chatting about the metal holiday gifts we received, running down vital podcast stats from 2019 and giving out the prestigious Jay Awards for 2019. We also debut a brand new segment called Metal Thunderdome that pits Dio's "Holy Diver" against Mercyful Fate's "Melissa," and we share our thoughts on the life and legend of Neil Peart. Plus, the latest news, new releases, What We're Listening to and our Top 5 Albums from 2019 We Missed or Didn’t Put On Our Lists.

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnJanuary 14, 2020Metalheads PodcastComment

Metalheads Podcast Episode 96: Top 40 Metal Albums of 2019 Year-End

2019 was an amazing year for metal. So amazing, in fact, we decided to beef up our lists from 25 to 40. Along with our Top 40 album reveals, you'll hear the sounds of George not drinking beer, John breaking down vital statistics, Markisan describing satanic summer home rentals, Matt getting bitchy with Google pronunciation tech, and an under-the-weather Will using a rectal thermometer wrong. We also discuss our Top 5 Metal Album Covers of the Year and debut a brand new, year-end feature – The Jay Award – in honor of Jay spoiling our combined album rankings without apology or regret.

Metal Heads Podcast, pod4George WashburnDecember 24, 2019Best of 2019Comment

Metalheads Podcast Episode 95: featuring Thrawsunblat

Gather round our metal campfire, listeners! Today, Joel Violette of Thrawsunblat returns to regale you with new tales of blackened folk majesty! In Episode 95 of the Metalheads Podcast, he chats with us about preparing for the band's first live performance at The Capital Complex in New Brunswick, exploring Canadian stories through song, contributing to the Maritime Metal documentary, and how he may or may not be magically powered by forests…

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnNovember 5, 2019ThrawsunblatComment

Metalheads Podcast: ProgPower USA 2019

Each September brings several things back into our daily lives: NFL football, shitty pumpkin beers, and ProgPower USA. In this episode, John makes his annual journey to Atlanta for ProgPower USA XX where he is joined by T. R., the "Metalheads Butler." They discuss all things fest-related including each day's events, best performances, next year's lineup, and their favorite moments from past festivals.

Metal Heads Podcast, pod4George WashburnOctober 8, 2019ProgPowerComment

Metalheads Podcast Episode 94: featuring Adem Tepedelen

The Metalheads Podcast intoxicates you with Episode 94! We brew up a flavorful conversation with Adem Tepedelen, Decibel Magazine’s long-running "Brewtal Truth" craft beer columnist. He talks about his new book, Nothing But the Brewtal Truth, which features expanded and revised versions of his columns from May 2009 to December 2018.

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnOctober 1, 2019Brewtal TruthComment

Metalheads Podcast Episode 93: featuring Crowhurst

In Episode 93 of the Metalheads Podcast we are held captive by Jay Gambit, the creative architect behind the experimental, black noise savagery of Crowhurst.

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnSeptember 17, 2019CrowhurstComment

Metalheads Podcast Episode 92: featuring Arctic Sleep

The Metalheads Podcast returns with Episode #92! We uncap some hearty brews and have a conversation with Keith D, the mastermind behind the arresting doom of Arctic Sleep. He talks about the band's brand new album, "Kindred Spirits," saying goodbye to his beloved cat Yoda through music, blowing off steam with grindcore covers of 80s songs in Chopping Mall, and how he'd love to lend his honeysuckle smooth baritone to voiceover work…

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnAugust 27, 2019Arctic SleepComment

Metalheads Podcast Episode 91: featuring Gates to the Morning

Like a handsome flower in the blazing glory of sunrise, the Metalheads Podcast blooms bright once more! In Episode 91, George, Jay, John and Markisan open their metal petals to Sean Meyers from Gates to the Morning, who talks about his passion project, "Return to Earth," losing all his music files and starting over, the influence of author Robert Anton Wilson on his life, and his love for Led Zeppelin's "Physical Graffiti." Plus, deep thoughts from George and John on recent Iron Maiden and Queen shows, Metal News, New Releases, What We’ve Been Listening To, and Top 5 Albums We're Looking Forward to in the 2nd Half of 2019. Come smell the metal.

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnAugust 6, 2019Gates to the MorningComment

Metalheads Podcast Episode #90: Top 25 Metal Albums 2019 Midyear

Like the 6 evil Constructicons combining to form the mighty Devastator... the Metalheads Podcast has once again come together to bring you our biggest, longest cast ever - the TOP 25 METAL ALBUMS of 2019 MIDYEAR!!! So, put on a hardhat, grab a six-pack and some salty snacks, and allow us to dump some liquid-cement love into your ears…

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnJuly 23, 2019Best of 2019Comment

Metalheads Podcast Episode 89: featuring Immortal Bird

Crom! The Metalheads Podcast returns to solve the riddle of steel with Episode 89! Immortal Bird front-woman, Rae Amitay, joins us for the full cast as we discuss her band's upcoming album, "Thrive On Neglect," how she got into metal, her favorite drummers and how rewarding it is to teach music to kids. We also talk about News, New Releases, What We’ve Been Listening To and our Top 5 Movies that are Metal as F*ck! Plus, George's undying love for Thrawsunblat, the powerful lure of cacti, and our collective worship of cats.

pod4, Metal Heads PodcastGeorge WashburnJune 25, 2019Immortal BirdComment

August 19, 2026

Metalheads Podcast Episode #170: Vested Interest

We've passed the halfway mark for 2026, so we had to start this episode with a discussion on the year in metal so far. We give our overall thoughts on heavy music at the midpoint, then share a few albums that have moved us, surprised us or staked a claim on our lists. We also break down new albums by Dead Kosmonaut, Einherjer and Warning, drop some gems in What We’re Listening To and dig up some rusty metal trinkets for Picks From the Crypt. Plus, Matt leads the Wheel of Pain segment, Battle Vest Builder. We talk about our processes for building vests, improving existing ones and sharing how we might bedazzle our drip in the future.

July 27, 2026

Metalheads Podcast Episode #169: Metal Mingle featuring Trevor Portz and Karl Chamberlain of Ashen Horde

George and Markisan escape the Wheel of Pain to chat with Trevor Portz and Karl Chamberlain of Ashen Horde! Trevor and Karl discuss how they connected with a little help from the Podfather, what went into creating the band’s new album, The Harvest, why they decided to start playing live for the first time and how their mutual love for Swamp Thing inspired them creatively. Plus, can Karl record vocals any place, any time? Yes. Yes, he can.

June 23, 2026

Metalheads Podcast Episode #168: Multiverse of Metal Madness

This episode begins with a lively discussion about brand new albums from Khemmis, Fires in the Distance and Godthrymm. We also share What We’re Listening To and creak open the catacombs to reveal our Picks From the Crypt. Plus, Markisan is in the hot seat for the Wheel of Pain segment, Would You Rather. Find out what imaginative hypotheticals the gang throws at him, then cringe in horror at the terrible choices he's forced to make!

June 3, 2026

Metalheads Podcast Episode #167: The Wheel of Pain

A new era of the Metalheads Podcast begins! We introduce an exciting structure for the show that includes streamlined discussions of New Releases, What We’re Listening To and Pick From the Crypt. After tackling those familiar segments we unveil THE WHEEL OF PAIN! At the end of each show we’ll take turns spinning a virtual wheel with 30 unique discussion topics. The spinner will then lead the segment selected in the next show! For this inaugural Wheel of Pain, we pre-selected the segment, Behind the Curtain. Led by Jay, we discussed the legacy and impact of legendary producer Martin Birch. Plus, George and Will recap their time at Maryland Death Fest and we spin the wheel live for the first time. Find out WHAT our next segment will be and WHO will run it!

March 23, 2026

Metalheads Podcast Episode #166: Dungeon Masters

We're back with a special two-hour hang with some of our favorite guests, Temple of Void! Will was on location with the full band in a secret metal dungeon to discuss their crushing new album, The Crawl. Mike, Alex, Jason and Justin talk about the process for writing songs that are redefining their music beyond death doom. Plus, unexpected love for the 90s riffs of Bush, why boxing is truly the sweet science, what D&D character classes best represent the band, the need for exceptional dexterity when shooting music videos and... the power of haiku? All this and more awaits you, brave adventurer, in Episode #166: Dungeon Masters featuring Temple of Void.

January 29, 2026

Metalheads Podcast #165: Loyal to the Grave

The 2026 seal shatters with an aerodynamic new episode of the Metalheads Podcast! We start with a discussion about New Releases, highlighted by some long and lively takes on the new Kreator and Megadeth albums, then we share What We’re Listening To and Picks from the Crypt. After the sarcophagus closes, John reveals the top 2025 honors based on stats from our big year-end show. Find out who took home the Frenemies Award, the Get a Room Award, the Clairvoyant Award, The America Fuck Yeah Award, the World Traveler Award, the Jay Award and the coveted Wilson Award. Plus, George makes a promise of podcast changes to come...

December 22, 2025

Metalheads Podcast Episode #164: Top 25 Metal Albums of 2025

♫♪♩♬ Here come Metalheads, here come Metalheads, right down Metalheads Lane
We got a bag that's filled with toys for boys and girls again
Hear those slay bells jingle jangle, oh what a beautiful sight
So jump in bed and cover your head, cause Metalheads come tonight! ♫♪♩♬

November 24, 2025

Metalheads Podcast #163: Monsters in the Sky

In the penultimate 2025 episode, our friend Justin Riley joins us to discuss metal news and evaluate a mighty list of new releases, including albums from Coroner, Evoken, An Abstract Illusion, Hooded Menace, Tombs, Wode, Testament and more. Plus, What We're Listening To, Picks From the Crypt, epic homework failures and an elemental monster battle of final albums, as Celtic Frost "Monotheist" locks horns with Bolt Thrower "Those Once Loyal" in a Thunderdome clash for the ages.

September 30, 2025

Metalheads Podcast #162: In Memoriam

This episode we discuss the recent deaths of Ozzy Osbourne, Tomas Lindberg, Brent Hinds and Erik Wunder, and honor their tremendous contributions to metal. We also count down our Top 5 Deceased Artists We‘re Glad We Saw Live, John recaps his time at ProgPower USA XXIV, and we break down the stats and awards from our Top 20 Albums at Midyear show. Plus, News, New Releases, What We’ve Been Listening To, and Picks from the Crypt. So, raise a glass and join us as we commemorate fallen metal legends in this extra-sized In Memoriam edition of the podcast.

July 21, 2025

Metalheads Podcast Episode #161: 2025 Midyear Top 20

On this, the day of our deity of reciprocity, we gather to give special thanks to our treasured Midyear Sun. As an offering for our Podfather, we will today surrender 20 heavy metal albums. As Metalheads take, so Metalheads also give.

June 9, 2025

Metalheads Podcast Episode 160: Through this Dark Time

This episode we welcome back Dennis Mikula of Ghost Bath! We talk about the creation of his band's new album, Rose Thorn Necklace, how he started his vaporwave label, Geometric Lullaby, why sad depressing music soothes him, and how his obsession for writing songs can sometimes be a health risk. Dennis also helps us break down Metal News, New Releases, What We’re Listening to and Picks from the Crypt. Plus, for the first time on the podcast, two live albums get locked in the Metal Thunderdome, courtesy of Jay.

May 4, 2025

Metalheads Podcast Episode 159: Brewtal Pewdle

This episode our friend Nick Pingel joins us to chat about how he first discovered the Metalheads Podcast, the power of underwear hugs and what the metal scene is like in Iowa. We also reminisce about our time at the recent Decibel Metal and Beer Fest in Philly and break down Metal News, New Releases, What We’re Listening to and Picks from the Crypt. Plus, in one of the most personal segments ever recorded on the podcast, we reveal the real life stories behind our Top 5 Albums That Make Us Feel Nostalgic

March 24, 2025

Metalheads Podcast Episode 158: Save it for Later

This episode we discuss the big announcement that Brent Hinds has parted ways with Mastodon, plus news about Iron Maiden's new visual history book and documentary, Acid Bath reuniting, Tool potentially being sued by fans, and Danzig being Danzig. We also review new releases from Havukruunu, Nite, Warbringer, Jesse Stiletto and Rwake, share What We've Been Listening To, and kick open the metal mausoleum to reveal our Picks from the Crypt. Plus, Skepticism - Stormcrowfleet squares off against My Dying Bride - The Angel and the Dark River in Markisan's Metal Thunderdome battle of two great doom albums from 1995. AND, in a situational twist, Matt reveals his new Leviathan contract terms and suddenly decides he'll get back to us on... well, everything.

February 24, 2025

Metalheads Podcast Episode 157: Black-Feathered Gloam featuring Skaldr

This episode we welcome back Carey Vaughn, Brent Delaney and Harry Hogshead from Skaldr to talk about their new album, Saṃsṛ. We also chat about the latest Metal News, discuss New Releases from Phrenelith, Dream Theater, Saor and Mantar, share What We've Been Listening To, and blow the dust off old albums for Picks from the Crypt. Plus, we count down our Top 5 Bands that Should Reunite!

January 28, 2025

Metalheads Podcast Episode #156: Rwwwwr!

We kick off 2025 in grand style with our annual Metalheads Stats and Awards! Find out who won the World Traveler Award, the Get a Room Award, the Jay Award, the Wilson Award and more! We also discuss the latest News and New Releases, reveal What We've Been Listening To, and unearth our Picks from the Crypt. Plus, we discuss the deep cuts Iron Maiden should play on their Run For Your Lives World Tour and George drops a turbocharged bomb on the cast with his surprise Metal Thunderdome!

December 26, 2024

Metalheads Podcast 155: Top 25 Metal Albums of 2024

Dashing through the snow
Six metalheads ready to slay
O'er the mics we go
Laughing all the way
Sounds of metal ring
Making spirits bright
What fun it is to drink and sing
Our Top 25 lists tonight!

November 18, 2024

Metalheads Podcast Episode 154: Unapologetically Satanic

This episode we talk with writer, editor and avid Metalheads Podcast listener, Holly Interlandi, about writing Gene Simmons' Dominatrix and her Last Song comic books, her time as editor on Famous Monsters of Filmland, and how she got into heavy music. Holly also reveals the 3 Albums that Would Help People Get to Know Her Better, then helps us break down the latest in Metal News, New Releases and What We've Been Listening To. Plus, Picks from the Crypt and Top 5 Bands We Want to Play at Decibel Metal & Beer Fest Philly.

October 1, 2024

Metalheads Podcast Episode 153: Hold My Hairspray

We're back at last! No guest this episode, just your favorite six hosts talking Metal News, New Releases, What We've Been Listening To and Picks from the Crypt. Plus, John recaps his time at ProgPower USA XXIII, Will locks us in a new Metal Thunderdome with Primordial and Behemoth, and we wax poetic about Winger.

August 1, 2024

Metalheads Podcast Episode 152: Blue-Haired Kid featuring Jason Roberts of BREATHS

Jason Roberts joins the podcast to chat about writing and recording his new BREATHS album, navigating several band implosions and starting his new post-doom sludge band, Violescent. He also shares his varied rock and metal influences over the years, and talks about what it was like to play shows with Slipknot when he was a teenager in the nu-metal band, Eighth Ground. After the interview, Jason reveals what 3 albums would help people better understand him as a person, then he sticks around to talk Metal News, New Releases and What We've Been Listening To. Plus, John breaks down all the vital stats from our Midyear Top 25 Album lists, we unveil listener poll results from our Horrendous Vs. Tomb Mold Metal Thunderdome, present our Picks from the Crypt and count down our Top 5 Bands We Wish Would Release New Music.

July 8, 2024

Metalheads Podcast Episode 151: 2024 Midyear Top 25

Half of 2024 may be extinct, but the Metalheads Podcast has carefully preserved the best metal artifacts from the 1st six months in our Top 25 Metal Albums at Midyear! Discover our favorite heavy records of the year so far in this 5+ hour countdown episode of archeological metal wonder, filled with unique excavations, glorious gems and exploratory merriment. Featuring the historic return of Matt as Brew Metal Will!

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Albums of 2025 - The Lists

The Metalheads Podcast Top 25 lists are officially unleashed, meaning you can now admire our impeccable taste, question our judgment, and yell at your phone in real time.

Metalhead Podcast 2025 Mid-Year Top 20.png

Metalheads Podcast 2025 Midyear Top 25 Lists

You've listened to the Episode, now read the lists that the show was based on. The names have not been changed because the guilty are not repentant.

Markisan's Top 40 Albums of 2024

2024 is almost in the books and I’m absolutely staggered by the last 366 days of blistering metal. While there are still a few albums trickling in as this leap year fades away, it’s time to power down the stereo, disconnect the headphones and freeze my favorite metal albums in time once more.

Metalheads Podcast 2024 Midyear Top 25

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Albums of 2023

The most magical time of the year has arrived. The Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Metal Albums of 2023 is here! We've secretly wrapped the very best extreme metal albums and piled them high under the tree just for you. So, wipe the sleep crusties from your eyes, pour yourself a yuletide beverage and nestle into your favorite battle snuggie, because you've got 5 hours of joyous unwrapping to do. Happy Holidays!

Markisan's Top 25 Metal Albums of 2023

Here we are, at the end of an amazing year in metal. If you're a headbanger, I don't have to tell you that 2023 produced a mountain of ferocious, incendiary music from all genres and subgenres in heavy music. And now that our 2023 planetary trip around the sun nears its conclusion, it's time for me to once again take stock of all the metal I've spun and enjoyed over the last 365 days.

Metalheads Podcast Mid-Year Top 25: The Lists

Couldn’t understand what the name of that band was when listening to the mid-year episode? They sounded interesting but you can’t figure out how to spell it? We’ve got you. Here are all our lists from the episode. Go forth and explore the ones you don’t know!

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Albums of 2022

Yippee-ki-yay! It's here! The Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Metal Albums of 2022! Featuring James Lewis of Decibel Magazine! We got together, had a few laughs, drank some beers and counted down our favorite extreme records of the year. So, grab a machine gun and make fists with your toes on the carpet because you're about to be trapped in the Metalheads Plaza for 5+ hours. Welcome to the party, pal.

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Albums 2022 Midyear

It’s a midyear miracle! This episode we reveal our Top 25 metal albums released between January and June IN UNDER 5 HOURS! Pour a beer and prepare your ears for this aerodynamic countdown of the best metal recommendations around (and no one’s ever gonna keep em down). Plus, Will reads his old love letters from Jay.

April 2022 - Amorphis, Sylvaine, Uada Live Show Review

One of the most exciting tours happening in the US right now is Uada and Sylvaine, with Finnish melodic metal pioneers, Amorphis, headlining. I caught the show on April 22nd at the Oriental Theater in Denver, Colorado, and had a great first experience seeing these three bands live.

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Metal Albums of 2021

What’s that you say? No patience for sitting through five-plus hours of podcast? You just want the lists already? We hear you. Here they are in all their font-like glory. Our lists from 2021 year-end.

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Metal Albums 2021 Midyear

Once more unto the breach, dear metalheads! We emerge from a deep, metalogical abyss to bring you excavated treasures of heaviness! Listen to us count down our 25 favorite albums released between January and June 2021. Plus, the lyrical lament of Jay, Will can't shut up about Imagine Dragons, intermission ramblings from Markisan and we drink enough to discuss the very real possibility of cannibal camels.

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Metal Albums 2020 Year End

2020 may have sucked overall, but metal did not. Bands and record labels truly rallied in the 2nd half of the year to deliver us some outstanding audio gifts. So, nestle in to a snug spot by your Christmas tree, pour a tankard of spiked nog and listen to us unwrap the very best metal presents of 2020. Plus, revel in the joy of John's Dork Fartress! Episode 110 – The Top 25 Metal Albums of 2020. Happy holidays to you and yours!

10 Horns with Corsair

Markisan talks to Corsair about recording and releasing “Horizons” in a pandemic, telling pirate tales through metal and who in the band has the most convincing pirate accent.

Metalheads Podcast Top 25 Metal Albums 2020 Midyear

In this special, 7-hour episode we welcome our friend James Lewis of Decibel Magazine to count down our 25 favorite albums released between January and June. We also reveal our Top 5 Album Covers and Top 5 EPs of the year so far. Plus, Matt tries to reference every song title on Metallica's Black Album, George perfects the art of speaking at half speed, and Markisan chases rainbows and crashes in a mead haze, only to make the greatest comeback in metal podcasting history. The ultimate TOP 25 METAL ALBUMS of 2020 MIDYEAR are here! Accept no substitutes.