Acid King formed in San Francisco in 1993, led by guitarist and vocalist Lori S. along with bassist Peter Lucas and drummer Joey Osbourne. Their name was inspired by Ricky Kasso — the real-life “Acid King” from the book Say You Love Satan — and it perfectly captured the band’s otherworldly, doom-laden sound. From the start, they stood out in the underground scene for their thick, fuzz-drenched tones and hypnotic, slow-burning riffs that defined the early stoner-doom movement emerging in the ’90s.Their debut EP appeared in 1994 through Sympathy for the Record Industry, but it was the 1995 full-length Zoroaster that began to turn heads. Acid King hit their stride with Busse Woods in 1999 on Man’s Ruin Records — a cult classic now considered one of the cornerstones of stoner rock. That record combined weighty riffs, atmospheric reverb, and a trippy, meditative flow that set them apart from their peers. Lori S.’s distinctive vocals, part chant and part haze, helped shape the sound that would become their signature.Over the following decades, Acid King released III (2005), Middle of Nowhere, Center of Everywhere (2015), and Beyond Vision (2023). Each album expanded their sound — from the raw biker-doom of the early years to the cinematic, cosmic vibe of their latest work. Despite numerous lineup changes, Lori S. has remained the band’s creative core, driving the heavy grooves and mind-bending textures that define Acid King’s legacy.Today, Acid King are seen as pioneers of the stoner-doom genre. Their music continues to influence new generations of heavy bands worldwide. With Beyond Vision, they’ve proven that their blend of fuzzed-out riffs, spacey melodies, and unrelenting heaviness still resonates deeply. Acid King’s sound is timeless — a hypnotic journey best experienced loud, late, and lost in the haze. Official Website: acidking.com  • Facebook: facebook.com/AcidkingSF  • Instagram: @acidkingrocks

In this episode, Dweezil Zappa returns to talk about his groundbreaking album Automatic, a record that showcases his evolution as a guitarist, composer, and producer. The album dives deep into modern instrumental rock, blending fierce technical skill with melodic and emotional precision.Dweezil discusses the creative process behind Automatic — how he approached writing and arranging songs that balance complexity with groove. He opens up about tone crafting, gear experimentation, and the influences that pushed him toward a more cinematic and expressive sound.Throughout the conversation, Dweezil shares insight into how Automatic bridges his past and present — a reflection of both his Zappa lineage and his own artistic voice. From shredding guitar lines to lush textures, the album proves why he remains one of the most inventive players in rock.We also touch on his recording techniques, the evolution of his playing over the years, and what fans can expect from future projects. It’s a deep, honest look at how Automatic became one of his most personal and technically refined works to date.Follow Dweezil Zappa:Website – dweezilzappa.comInstagram – @dweezilzappaofficialYouTube – Dweezil Zappa

Rock legend Angry Anderson of Rose Tattoo joins Laughingmonkeymusic to talk about his powerful new single “Hard Road” and what fans can expect from the band’s upcoming 2026 tour. Known for his raw energy, unmistakable voice, and hard-hitting attitude, Angry reflects on his decades in rock and the drive that keeps him going strong today.We also talk about how touring has changed, what it’s like to perform for generations of fans, and how new material like “Hard Road” keeps the fire alive. With 2026 shaping up to be a big year, Rose Tattoo’s return to the stage promises to be a celebration of pure, unfiltered rock ’n’ roll.Angry’s honesty, humor, and passion for the music shine through as he talks about legacy, inspiration, and what still fuels him after all these years. This is a conversation every rock fan will want to catch.Follow Angry Anderson / Rose Tattoo:Website – rosetattoo.com.auFacebook – Rose Tattoo OfficialInstagram – @rosetattoobandofficial

Dweezil Zappa joins Laughingmonkeymusic for a deep dive into one of his most iconic works — “My Guitar Wants to Kill Your Mama.” In this episode, Dweezil breaks down the song’s origins, its connection to his father Frank Zappa’s legacy, and how he reimagined it for a new generation of guitar fans.From tone and technique to songwriting and production, Dweezil walks us through the creative choices that shaped the track and the mindset behind his unique guitar voice. The conversation moves beyond nostalgia, touching on how he continues to evolve as a player and composer while honoring the Zappa name.We also get into Dweezil’s approach to recording, live sound, and how he balances the technical precision of his playing with emotional depth. His insight into gear, arrangement, and artistic intent gives fans a rare behind-the-curtain look at what makes his music tick.If you love guitar-driven rock, musical storytelling, and creative freedom, this episode is a must-watch.Follow Dweezil Zappa:Website – dweezilzappa.comInstagram – @dweezilzappaofficialYouTube – Dweezil Zappa

Bill Fisher has carved a fascinating path through modern rock and prog. Based in Nottingham, he first caught attention leading Church of the Cosmic Skull, the seven-piece band known for its lush harmonies, cosmic themes, and a theatrical mix of heavy riffs and vintage melodies. The band’s blend of progressive rock and psychedelic soul quickly earned them a devoted international following and a strong live reputation.As a solo artist, Bill pushed even further. His debut Mass Hypnosis and the Dark Triad mixed proto-metal and prog with sharp lyrical wit, while his 2024 album How to Think Like a Billionaire revealed a more refined sound—part folk-prog, part cinematic rock, and fully his own. Each release shows his ability to cross genres without losing his melodic backbone or emotional punch.Fisher’s work dives deep into human behavior, belief, and ambition—all wrapped in irresistible guitar tones and rich arrangements. His songs aren’t just heard; they’re experienced, inviting listeners to question everything from power to perception while nodding their heads to unforgettable hooks.This episode explores Bill’s creative process, his evolution from band leader to solo visionary, and how he manages to balance humor, heaviness, and heart. We also touch on the live side of his art—where his cosmic energy truly comes alive.Watch, listen, and dive into the mind of one of the most inventive rock songwriters around.Follow Bill Fisher:Website – billfisher.netBandcamp – billfisher.bandcamp.comInstagram – @churchofthecosmicskullChurch of the Cosmic Skull: https://cosmicskull.orgBill Fisher solo releases: https://billfisher.netMassive Hassle: https://massivehassle.tvDystopian Future Movies: https://dystopianfuturemovies.com

Michael Sweet, frontman of Stryper, returns with a full slate of new music. The band’s upcoming Christmas album The Greatest Gift Of All blends classic holiday songs with original tracks in true Stryper style — heavy guitars, harmony vocals, and messages of hope and faith. It’s a bold take on Christmas music from one of rock’s most enduring and faithful voices.

In addition, Sweet is preparing a new solo album focused on worship and spiritual reflection. This project offers a more personal side of his songwriting, showing how his faith continues to shape both his music and his message. It marks another chapter in his evolution as an artist who balances conviction, creativity, and craftsmanship.

Stryper is also writing their next studio album for a 2026 release. Sweet promises it will honor their signature sound while adding new ideas and depth. After four decades in music, he continues to deliver powerful songs and positive energy to fans worldwide.

Official Links:

Michael Sweet — michaelsweet.com

Stryper — stryper.com

Instagram — instagram.com/michaelsweetofficial

Facebook — facebook.com/TheMichaelSweet

X / Twitter — twitter.com/michaelhsweet

YouTube — youtube.com/@MichaelSweetOfficial

adventurous streak led her to a new path that would shape her life.In 1995, at just 19, she joined The Dandy Warhols in Portland, Oregon, despite having minimal formal music training. Her bold personality and willingness to learn made her an essential part of the band, evolving from keyboardist to a full-fledged multi-instrumentalist handling bass, percussion, and vocals. Zia’s style and charisma became a cornerstone of The Dandy Warhols’ distinctive blend of psychedelic rock and alternative cool that helped define an era of modern rock.Outside of the Dandys, Zia has kept her creative energy flowing in multiple directions. As DJ Rescue, she’s lit up clubs around the world with eclectic sets that mirror her wide-ranging musical tastes. She also performs with her country project, Brush Prairie, blending heartfelt songwriting with her love of roots music. Away from the stage, she has found success as a Portland real-estate broker, bringing her sense of community and authenticity to a completely different world.In addition to music and real estate, Zia has long hosted her own radio show, where she dives into the songs and stories that inspire her. She continues to be an active voice for creativity, equality, and the environment—never afraid to speak her mind or champion causes close to her heart.With a new Dandy Warhols record on the horizon for 2026 and several personal projects in motion, Zia McCabe remains as vital and multifaceted as ever. She continues to balance art, activism, and real life with the same fearless energy that first put her on stage. Keep up with her world through instagram.com/ziamccabetwitter.com/ziamccabefacebook.com/ZiaMcCabeOfficial

lKory Clarke is best known as the outspoken frontman and creative force behind Warrior Soul, the politically charged, no-filter hard rock band that rose from New York City’s underground in the late ’80s. Clarke’s mission from the start was clear: shake the system and wake the people.Blending punk attitude with metal power, Clarke led Warrior Soul through a run of killer albums — Last Decade Dead Century, Drugs, God and the New Republic, and Salutations from the Ghetto Nation — all loaded with rebellion, wit, and that “acid punk” energy that made them stand out. His lyrics hit like manifestos, railing against greed, control, and media corruption, long before those themes were trendy again.Even after lineup changes and label battles, Clarke kept pushing forward, reviving Warrior Soul in the 2000s and continuing to release new music that’s just as raw and fearless as ever — including Rock ’N’ Roll Disease and Out on Bail. He’s also an accomplished painter and poet, channeling that same defiant spirit into every art form he touches.With his gravel-and-gasoline voice, anti-establishment fire, and refusal to ever play it safe, Kory Clarke stands as one of rock’s true lifers — a rebel artist who never stopped believing that music could still mean something.Official band website: warriorsoul.com  • Bandcamp (music & downloads): koryclarkewarriorsoul.bandcamp.com  • Instagram (art + updates): @kory_clarke_art 

Dave Lee — founder of Signal Snowboards and creator of Cardboard Sessions — has turned a wild idea into a full-blown creative movement. What began as experiments in building snowboards and skateboards out of cardboard with Ernest Packaging evolved into playable guitars, basses, and drum kits. The result is Cardboard Sessions, a YouTube series where world-class musicians jam on fully functional cardboard instruments, blending craftsmanship, sustainability, and pure curiosity into one inventive concept.

A former pro snowboarder, Lee brings his same fearless “let’s try it” attitude to music and design. Each session captures spontaneous performances by artists like Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, exploring what happens when expectations are stripped away — and replaced by creativity and play. Behind the fun lies serious engineering: layered cardboard, bio-resin, and pro-grade hardware combine to make instruments that don’t just look cool but sound surprisingly great.

More than a gimmick, Cardboard Sessions celebrates innovation, sustainability, and the joy of collaboration. Lee’s message is simple but powerful: when you mix passion with experimentation, you can turn almost anything — even cardboard — into art. It’s a refreshing reminder for creators of all kinds that the best ideas often start with a “what if?” and a willingness to build something just for the love of it.

Asaf Avidan joins us to talk about his brand-new album Unfurl, diving deep into the music, stories, and emotions behind the release. Known for his unmistakable voice and poetic songwriting, Asaf continues to push creative boundaries with a sound that blends raw honesty and cinematic atmosphere.Born in Jerusalem, Avidan first rose to fame with Asaf Avidan & The Mojos, earning international acclaim when “Reckoning Song” became a global hit through the remix “One Day / Reckoning Song.” Since then, his solo albums like Different Pulses, Gold Shadow, and The Study on Falling have established him as one of the most original voices in modern music.In this exclusive conversation, Asaf opens up about the making of Unfurl, his evolving creative process, and the personal reflections that shape his art today.

Listen & Follow Asaf Avidan:

🔗 Official Site

🔗 Spotify

🔗 YouTube

🔗 Instagram

John Haughm remains a big creative part of Agalloch, but in recent years he has also carved a singular path as a solo artist. His solo work explores ambient, experimental, folk, and spectral textures — often using minimalist instrumentation, field recordings, and layered atmospherics. You can find his releases, old and new, on his Bandcamp page: haughm.bandcamp.com At the same time, the Agalloch catalog has seen renewed life through reissues, remasters, and archival releases. EPs like The White and The Grey have been reissued to reach broader audiences, and classic albums have been re-pressed or remastered for new formats. (For example, Of Stone, Wind, & Pillor (Remastered) was reissued with expanded artwork via Eisenwald)  The band maintains a presence on Agalloch’s Bandcamp as well: agalloch.bandcamp.com Haughm and Agalloch also maintain active social media profiles to engage with fans. Agalloch’s official Facebook page (Agalloch – The Official Page) shares news, show announcements, and merch links. Their Instagram (@agalloch_official) similarly posts updates, visuals, and tour promos. John Haughm also posts on his Facebook about solo releases and special edition bundles (e.g. CD + shirt offerings) linking back to his Bandcamp. On the touring front, Haughm has continued to perform solo — offering intimate sets that reinterpret Agalloch material or present new compositions in a stripped setting. When Agalloch reunited (with original members plus a new drummer) in 2023, they began playing selected shows and full-album performances, weaving Haughm’s solo interludes into the larger live experience. For those interested in exploring Agalloch’s releases, much of their catalog is released through Dämmerung Arts and Eisenwald (among other labels). For example, The Serpent & The Sphere was issued via Dämmerung Arts / Eisenwald / Profound Lore depending on format and region. These labels help facilitate the reissues and physical editions that bring both Agalloch’s legacy and Haughm’s solo work to fans worldwide.

Uli Jon Roth is a German guitarist, composer, and visionary best known for his groundbreaking work with the Scorpions in the 1970s and for pioneering a neo-classical approach to rock guitar. Born on December 18, 1954, in Düsseldorf, Germany, Roth joined the Scorpions in 1973, helping shape their early sound on albums such as Fly to the Rainbow (1974), In Trance (1975), Virgin Killer (1976), and Taken by Force (1977). His emotive phrasing, fluid bends, and extended melodic solos set him apart from his contemporaries, influencing generations of guitarists including Yngwie Malmsteen, Kirk Hammett, and Steve Vai. Roth’s classical leanings and improvisational flair brought a sense of artistry and spirituality to the hard rock landscape of the time.

After leaving the Scorpions in 1978, Roth formed his own band, Electric Sun, which became the platform for him to explore a more personal and philosophical form of music. Albums such as Earthquake (1979), Fire Wind (1981), and Beyond the Astral Skies (1985) blended Hendrix-inspired rock with symphonic and spiritual elements, showcasing his evolution from guitar hero to musical poet. His lyrics and themes often touched on mysticism, universal consciousness, and the search for enlightenment—concepts that would define much of his later work.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Roth expanded beyond rock, composing orchestral works and developing his own instrument, the Sky Guitar, which extends the range of a traditional electric guitar to encompass violin-like tones. This innovation allowed him to perform complex classical pieces alongside rock compositions, bridging two worlds few musicians had combined so seamlessly. His projects such as Metamorphosis of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Under a Dark Sky demonstrated his ambition to merge classical grandeur with electric intensity.

In the decades since, Uli Jon Roth has remained a respected figure in both rock and classical circles, often described as a philosopher with a guitar. He continues to tour internationally, performing retrospective concerts that celebrate both his Scorpions legacy and his later symphonic works. Revered for his technical mastery, tone, and spiritual depth, Roth’s influence endures as one of the most unique voices in the evolution of modern guitar music—a true bridge between the soul of classical composition and the freedom of rock improvisation.

https://ujr.info/

Dweezil Zappa was born on September 5, 1969, in Los Angeles, California, the son of legendary musician and composer Frank Zappa and Gail Zappa. Growing up in one of the most creatively charged households in rock history, Dweezil was surrounded by instruments, recording sessions, and a constant stream of innovative artists visiting the family home. Naturally drawn to music, he began playing guitar at a young age, inspired by players like Eddie Van Halen, who would later mentor him. By the time he was 12, Dweezil released his first single, “My Mother Is a Space Cadet,” with Eddie Van Halen producing and playing on it—a remarkable start for such a young artist.

Released in 1986 on Barking Pumpkin Records, Havin’ a Bad Day was Dweezil Zappa’s debut solo album and a bold introduction to his talent as both a guitarist and songwriter. Recorded largely at his father’s famed UMRK (Utility Muffin Research Kitchen) studio, the album captures Dweezil as a teenager experimenting with hard rock, glam metal, and pop influences that defined much of the decade. Produced by Frank Zappa and Bob Stone, the record showcases slick 1980s production values while allowing Dweezil’s guitar work to take center stage.

The album features nine tracks, including the title song “Havin’ a Bad Day,” “Blonde Hair, Brown Nose,” “Electric Hoedown,” and “I Want a Yacht.” The songs balance tongue-in-cheek humor and youthful energy, mirroring both his father’s satirical edge and the flashy guitar-driven sound of the era. Musicians like Scott Thunes and Chad Wackerman—both members of Frank’s touring bands—provided bass and drums, while other family members, including Moon Unit and Gail Zappa, contributed backing vocals, adding to the album’s homegrown atmosphere.

While Havin’ a Bad Day didn’t make major commercial waves, it served as an important artistic statement for a young guitarist stepping out from a legendary shadow. Critics noted Dweezil’s technical skill and melodic instincts, though many recognized he was still finding his voice as a songwriter. Today, the album stands as a fascinating snapshot of his early years—part youthful exuberance, part serious musicianship—and the first step in a career that would see him evolve into one of rock’s most respected modern guitarists.

Geoff Tate emerged from the Seattle music scene in the early 1980s, co-founding Queensrÿche in 1982. His dynamic tenor voice and dramatic delivery quickly set him apart, helping the band stand out in the rising heavy metal landscape. Their self-titled debut EP gained international traction and laid the foundation for a career built on ambitious, thought-provoking music.The band’s early albums The Warning (1984) and Rage for Order (1986) earned critical acclaim, but it was Operation: Mindcrime (1988) that defined Tate’s legacy. The politically charged concept record became one of metal’s most celebrated works. Success continued with Empire (1990), featuring the hit “Silent Lucidity,” which earned Grammy recognition and cemented Queensrÿche’s place in mainstream rock.Through the 1990s and 2000s, Tate led Queensrÿche through stylistic evolution, exploring progressive, alternative, and modern sounds. Albums like Promised Land (1994) revealed a darker, introspective side, while later releases such as Tribe (2003) highlighted collaboration and experimentation. Though not all projects matched earlier commercial highs, Tate’s voice remained the band’s defining element.Following his departure from Queensrÿche in 2012, Tate pursued a solo career and later formed the project Operation: Mindcrime. This new venture allowed him to continue his passion for conceptual rock while touring globally. His solo releases and collaborations further demonstrated his range and commitment to musical storytelling beyond the Queensrÿche catalog.Today, Geoff Tate is celebrated as one of rock’s most distinctive vocalists, known for his soaring range, theatrical style, and ability to merge heavy music with narrative depth. He continues to tour internationally, often performing complete renditions of Operation: Mindcrime and Empire, keeping his legacy alive for new and longtime fans alike.https://www.geofftate.com

In this episode, we dive into the story of The O’Reillys and the Paddyhats, the German folk-punk powerhouse that blends Celtic tradition with rock energy. From their beginnings as a small duo to becoming festival favorites across Europe, the band’s history is filled with passion, reinvention, and a love for music that gets crowds moving.

We explore their early days, the evolution of their sound, and how they carved out a place in the international folk-punk scene with albums like Green Blood, Dogs on the Leash, and their re-imagined collection In Strange Waters. Their creative journey reflects a fearless spirit — one that respects tradition while daring to experiment.

A major part of the conversation centers on the 2022 singer change, when founding member Sean O’Reilly stepped away and Paddy Maguire took the mic. We talk about how that shift impacted the band, how fans reacted, and how the new voice has shaped their latest work, including the acclaimed 2024 release Coming Home.

Listeners will also hear about the band’s raucous live shows, where fiddles, guitars, and chants collide in an atmosphere of celebration. Whether in clubs or major festivals, The Paddyhats are known for shows that leave no shirt dry and no audience standing still.

Join us as we trace their journey from pub corners to international stages, unpack the challenges of change, and celebrate the enduring energy that keeps The O’Reillys and the Paddyhats at the forefront of the folk-punk scene.

Steph Paynes & Lez ZeppelinSteph Paynes is the visionary guitarist and founder of Lez Zeppelin, the all-female powerhouse that has redefined what a tribute band can be. More than just a faithful recreation, Lez Zeppelin brings the spirit, swagger, and intensity of Led Zeppelin’s music into a new light, guided by Paynes’ fiery guitar work and her dedication to channeling the emotional risk and raw energy of Jimmy Page’s playing. Since its inception, the project has drawn praise worldwide — even earning acknowledgement from Page himself.As a guitarist, Paynes is known for her technical mastery, tonal precision, and fearless improvisation. She has spent years studying the intricacies of Zeppelin’s catalog, not to mimic but to interpret, embracing the unpredictability and dynamic shifts that made the originals so compelling. Her performances often blur the line between homage and reinvention, breathing new vitality into riffs and solos that remain timeless while bearing her own unmistakable touch.With Lez Zeppelin, Paynes has overseen ambitious projects that go beyond the stage. Their debut album, produced by legendary engineer Eddie Kramer, captured the raw spirit of Zeppelin while showcasing the band’s own unique voice. Later, the group recreated Led Zeppelin I using the same vintage equipment and recording methods as the original sessions — a daring undertaking that proved their commitment to authenticity and artistry. These ventures set Lez Zeppelin apart as a band that respects tradition while pushing boundaries.Touring has always been at the heart of Paynes’ mission with Lez Zeppelin. The band’s live shows are known for their thunderous energy, dynamic setlists, and the sense of surrender Steph describes as essential to the music. Audiences around the globe have experienced their electric presence, from major festivals to historic theaters. In 2025, the band embarks on a special tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of Physical Graffiti, performing the album in its entirety alongside other Zeppelin classics, ensuring fans old and new can immerse themselves in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.Steph Paynes continues to prove that Lez Zeppelin is more than a tribute — it is a living, breathing incarnation of rock’s most enduring legacy. Through her artistry, leadership, and dedication, she keeps the music alive not just as nostalgia but as a vital, evolving force. Whether on record or on stage, Paynes and Lez Zeppelin deliver performances that honor the past while igniting the present, reminding audiences why Led Zeppelin’s music — and her interpretation of it — will always matter.

https://lezzeppelin.com/

Dweezil Zappa – Go With What You KnowDweezil Zappa, the son of legendary composer and guitarist Frank Zappa, has carved out his own path as a musician, producer, and guitarist with a distinctive voice. Known for his virtuosic guitar playing and wide-ranging musical tastes, Dweezil blends elements of rock, jazz, funk, and experimental textures, always infusing his work with both technical skill and personality. By the time he released Go With What You Know in 2006, he had already built a reputation for adventurous guitar work and innovative projects, both as a solo artist and collaborator.Go With What You Know stands as a showcase of Dweezil’s ability to merge complex musicianship with accessible grooves. The record features a mix of instrumental tracks and vocal numbers, highlighting his intricate guitar lines and keen ear for arrangement. While some songs lean into heavy rock energy, others reveal jazz fusion influences and melodic, atmospheric passages, creating a dynamic listening experience.Among the standout tracks are “Love Ride,” a fiery instrumental displaying Zappa’s trademark precision and flair, and “All Roads Lead to Inca,” which reflects his deep connection to his father’s musical legacy while stamping it with his own unique style. The title itself—Go With What You Know—suggests an embrace of authenticity, channeling what comes naturally rather than chasing trends. It’s a philosophy that resonates throughout the album’s shifting moods and textures.The album also includes contributions from a strong cast of musicians, underscoring Dweezil’s collaborative spirit. Yet it is his guitar work that anchors the record, weaving through complex harmonies, soaring solos, and unexpected rhythmic turns. Whether tearing through rapid-fire lines or settling into a soulful melodic phrase, his playing is consistently inventive and engaging.Go With What You Know serves as both a personal statement and an artistic milestone, reminding listeners that Dweezil Zappa is not simply carrying on a family name, but expanding on a legacy in his own voice. The album blends reverence for tradition with fearless exploration, offering a rewarding listen for guitar fans and music lovers alike.

Formed in Los Angeles in 1988, Rhino Bucket emerged as one of the most unrelenting purveyors of stripped-down, no-frills hard rock. With a sound often compared to AC/DC due to its raw guitar riffing and gravel-voiced delivery, the band built a reputation for keeping rock ‘n’ roll honest and powerful at a time when the music scene was shifting toward glam and alternative trends. Led by Finnish-born frontman Georg Dolivo, Rhino Bucket quickly carved out their place with a dedication to pure, riff-driven songs built for both the stage and the stereo.

The group’s self-titled debut album, released in 1990, showcased their straightforward, hard-hitting style and quickly gained traction among fans of classic hard rock. Their follow-up, Get Used to It (1992), solidified the band’s identity with tracks that captured the grit and swagger of old-school rock while resonating with newer audiences. By the mid-1990s, Rhino Bucket had toured extensively, earning a loyal following despite the changing tides of the rock world.

After a hiatus in the late 1990s, the band reemerged with a revitalized energy in the 2000s, releasing albums such as And Then It Got Ugly (2006) and The Hardest Town (2009). Their music continued to embrace the same no-compromise philosophy, blending relentless guitar riffs, stomping rhythms, and Dolivo’s signature raspy vocals. This consistency reinforced Rhino Bucket’s identity as a band for true rock loyalists—undistracted by trends and uncompromising in sound.

Rhino Bucket’s music has also appeared beyond the stage, with tracks featured in films like Wayne’s World and on various soundtracks that helped expose their raw energy to wider audiences. Their inclusion in media underscored the timeless appeal of their sound—straightforward, catchy, and unapologetically loud. The band remained a strong touring act, delivering performances that were as direct and powerful as their studio recordings.

Over the decades, Rhino Bucket has maintained their reputation as one of the most authentic hard rock acts to come out of Los Angeles. With a catalog that celebrates the essence of riff-driven rock and a stage presence rooted in grit and electricity, they stand as proof that rock ‘n’ roll doesn’t need frills to make an impact. Their legacy is one of loyalty to the craft—music that hits hard, keeps it simple, and never loses its bite.

https://www.rhinobucket.rocks/

Udo Dirkschneider is making waves again with Dirkschneider & The Old Gang (often shortened to DATOG), a new all-star collaboration that draws deep from his legendary roots in Accept and U.D.O. The group includes longtime comrades Peter Baltes (bass, ex-Accept), Stefan Kaufmann (guitar, ex-Accept & U.D.O.), Mathias Dieth (guitar, Sinner/U.D.O.), his son Sven Dirkschneider (drums), and singer Manuela Bibert. Together, they’ve released singles such as “Where The Angels Fly”, “Face Of A Stranger”, “Every Heart Is Burning”, and more recently “Time To Listen”. The excitement builds toward their debut DATOG album Babylon, due out in October 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music. Alongside the DATOG project, Udo is revisiting the Accept catalog in powerful ways. Most notably, the album Balls to the Wall has been re-recorded in a version titled Balls to the Wall Reloaded, celebrating that pivotal Accept record’s 40th anniversary. He’s also touring with that tour, playing classic Accept songs and giving fans both nostalgia and renewed versions of these heavy metal staples. Udo’s story is as rich as the music. Born in 1952, he rose to fame as the original singer of Accept, helping shape the band’s signature sound with albums like Breaker, Restless and Wild, Metal Heart, Russian Roulette, and of course Balls to the Wall. In 1987 he left Accept and founded U.D.O., carrying on with his powerful voice and songwriting. Over the decades he’s released many U.D.O. albums: Animal House (1987), Mean Machine, Faceless World, Timebomb, Solid, No Limits, Holy, Man and Machine, Thunderball, Mission No. X, Mastercutor, Dominator, Rev-Raptor, Steelhammer, Decadent, Steelfactory, We Are One, Game Over (2021), Touchdown (2023), plus other projects such as cover albums. Touring has always been central to Udo’s work, both with Accept (in its classic days) and with U.D.O. In recent years he’s done tours dedicated to Accept’s legacy: for example the Back to the Roots tour (performed under the name Dirkschneider) where he played many of the classic Accept songs. Now, with Balls to the Wall Reloaded and the upcoming DATOG album Babylon, fans can expect shows that mix the old and the new: classic Accept tracks, newer U.D.O. material, and fresh DATOG songs. What emerges is an artist still vital, still shaping how his past dialogues with his present. Udo’s voice (literally and metaphorically) bridges decades of heavy metal: the pioneering Accept era, the evolution of U.D.O., and now the DATOG venture. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, what’s coming promises both homage and innovation — new compositions rooted in a storied history, re-engaged performances of classics, and that unmistakable Udo Dirkschneider spirit at the heart of it all.⸻You can check out his official site for tour dates, news, and more here: Udo Dirkschneider Official Website

Nick Oliveri, born October 21, 1971 in Los Angeles, is an American bassist, vocalist, and songwriter best known for his work in the desert and stoner rock scenes. He began playing in early bands in the Palm Desert area, including Katzenjammer, which evolved into Sons of Kyuss and later Kyuss, where he appeared on the albums Wretch and Blues for the Red Sun.In 1997 he founded Mondo Generator, a project that allowed him to combine elements of punk, metal, and heavy rock into a distinct sound. Around the same time, he joined Queens of the Stone Age, contributing as bassist and vocalist from 1998 through 2004. His work with the band was central to the albums Rated R and Songs for the Deaf, where his aggressive playing and distinctive vocals became defining features.Beyond these roles, Oliveri has remained highly active as a collaborator and performer. He has recorded and toured with The Dwarves, Moistboyz, Svetlanas, and Big Scenic Nowhere, among others, and has also pursued solo work. His solo releases include Demolition Day (2004), the acoustic-based Death Acoustic (2009), and Leave Me Alone (2014) under the name Nick Oliveri’s Uncontrollable.Oliveri has also released the ongoing compilation series N.O. Hits at All, showcasing the breadth of his collaborations across various projects. Throughout his career, he has maintained a reputation as a versatile and energetic musician, bridging the worlds of punk, hard rock, and desert rock with a distinctive sound and presence.

https://www.mondogenerator.net/