Michael's Record Collection

Episode 167: Eric Gillette of The Neal Morse Band Discusses "L.I.F.T."

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0500

My guest for this episode is vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Eric Gillette of The Neal Morse Band. NMB just released its fifth studio album, L.I.F.T., on Friday, Feb. 27, and it's another standout concept album from the five-piece veteran prog rock ensemble. Eric was kind enough to discuss the making of the album, his musical beginnings, playing bluegrass at a young age, getting into progressive rock, joining forces with Neal Morse, when we can expect the next TEMIC album, making his cover videos, and much more. Learn more about Eric at www.ericgillettemusic.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, and Bluesky. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

I'd love to have your support for this independent podcast. You can become a patron of this show by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and at some levels you can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Episode 166: Robin McAuley on Black Swan's New "Paralyzed" Album

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Legendary Irish rock vocalist Robin McAuley returns for his third appearance on the show to discuss the latest album from his supergroup Black Swan. Paralyzed drops February 27 from Frontiers Music and is a high-energy, melodic rock tour de force from this all-star group of musicians that also includes guitarist Reb Beach (Winger, Whitesnake), bassist Jeff Pilson (Dokken, Foreigner), and drummer Matt Starr (Mr. Big, Ace Frehley). In addition to making Paralyzed, Robin spoke about touring in support of his 2025 solo album, Soulbound, making videos for the new Black Swan album, his love of macabre subject matter, his vision for Stan Decker's amazing cover art, and more.

Episode 165: Alberto Bravin of Big Big Train Discusses "Woodcut"

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

My guest for this episode is Big Big Train vocalist, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Alberto Bravin. Arriving from legendary Italian prog band PFM a couple of years back, Bravin discusses the band's new album (his second with Big Big Train), Woodcut. It's the 16th studio album for BBT but the band's first concept album. Alberto sat for the interview in early December 2025, but the album drops Friday, Feb. 6 from Inside Out Music. In addition to the making of the album and the concept story background, Alberto spoke about his musical beginnings and influences, how he found out he was producing the new album, and much more. To learn more about Big Big Train, visit bigbigtrain.com.

Episode 164: Echolyn Interview (All Four Members!) - TimeSilentRadio II and vii

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500

My guests for this special episode are all four members of veteran progressive rock band Echolyn — Raymond Weston, Christopher Buzby, Brett Kull, and Jordan Perlson. The four musicians joined me to discuss their self-released twin albums, TimeSilentRadio II and TimeSilentRadio vii, which came out March 7. The band just released a new video and these outstanding modern prog albums are well worth your time. They were kind enough to tell me about the album, their writing approach, their history, some of their early influences, and much more. For more information on this band that not nearly enough people know about, visit echolyn.com.

lease hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 163: Nick D'Virgilio on Rewiring Genesis Tribute to The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Nick D'Virgilio returns to discuss the reissue of his 2008 Rewiring Genesis A Tribute to The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway album. The reissue drops Friday, with some new parts recorded, including guitar by Genesis legend Steve Hackett and strings recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London. Nick discussed what's been added, what makes The Lamb special, his own personal history with the classic Genesis album and the band, touring as Hackett's drummer, what's next for D'Virgilio, Morse & Jennings and Big Big Train, and more. For more info on Nick, check out his website at www.nickdvirgilio.com.

Episode 162: Ted Leonard Talks New Spock's Beard Album 'The Archaeoptimist'

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

My guest for this episode is vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Ted Leonard, who is the front man for Spock's Beard, Pattern-Seeking Animals, and Enchant. Ted and his Spock's Beard mates are set to release the band's 14th studio album (the fourth since Ted came in to replace Nick D'Virgilio as vocalist after the latter left the band). The Archaeoptimist drops Friday from Madfish Music. Ted talks about the big influence Ryo Okumoto had in writing the album, the many references to classic Spock's Beard songs sprinkled throughout the tracks, the status of Enchant as a band, his musical background, and much more. Find out more about the new album at spocksbeard.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 161: Jonas Lindberg & The Other Side - Time Frames

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

My guest for this episode is Swedish multi-instrumentalist and composer Jonas Lindberg. His band/solo project, Jonas Lindberg & The Other Side is set to release its third album, Time Frames, on Nov. 7. Jonas was kind enough to tell me about the new album, his approach to songwriting, why the band hasn't played live in more than 10 years, his musical influences and background, and more. The music can best be described as a mixture of Spock's Beard, The Flower Kings, Kaipa, and Genesis, but there are other flavors as well. Learn more about Jonas' work on the band's Facebook page or his website: https://www.lindbergmusic.com/.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 160: Thomas Andersen of Gazpacho - "Magic 8-Ball"

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 18:45:08 -0400

My guest for this episode is founding member and keyboardist of Norwegian progressive rockers Gazpacho. This is one of the most interesting bands in modern progressive rock, and they're back with a new album on Oct. 31 called Magic 8-Ball, a conceptual piece that provides everything you already love about Gazpacho and yet delivers some fresh new sounds and ideas as well. Thomas was kind enough to talk to me about his background and influences, the story behind the Magic 8-Ball concept, the album Gazpacho had to scrap before making the new one, and much more. To find out more about the band, visit GazpachoWorld.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 159: Mariusz Duda Talks New Lunatic Soul Album

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

My guest for this episode is Polish composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Mariusz Duda (Riverside, Lunatic Soul) about the upcoming Lunatic Soul album, The World Under Unsun. It's the first double album for Lunatic Soul (the name under which Duda records his solo albums). Despite being a double concept album, he keeps the length manageable, and Mariusz was kind enough to tell me about the new record, the story that underlies all of Lunatic Soul's recorded work, his influences and background, his songwriting approach, his concept of genreless music using a variety of musical styles, and much more. For more information on Lunatic Soul, visit the official website at Lunaticsoul.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 158: Lawrence Gowan of Styx on "Circling From Above"

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

My guest for this episode is vocalist/keyboardist Lawrence Gowan of Styx. The Canadian musician took over for Dennis DeYoung ahead of the 2003 album Cyclorama and although he's only been part of the band's last five studio albums in that time, Styx continues to find ways to explore interesting musical ideas and create memorable music. Lawrence was kind enough to discuss the new album, Circling From Above (which came out in July), his first favorite record, how Jon Anderson of Yes ended up on his solo album, joining Styx, playing in a band with his brother, and (of course) the excellent new album. Learn more about Styx at Styxworld.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 157: Celebrating 40 Years of "Dream Into Action" by Howard Jones

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Jon Lamoreaux from the Hustle Podcast has been on the show before, and he returns to go track by track with me through the 1985 synth-pop masterpiece Dream Into Action by Howard Jones. The album turned 40 earlier this year and Howard is currently on his 40th anniversary tour for the album, playing most of the songs from it, along with other hits and favorites. We discuss the stories behind the songs and the differences between the original U.S. and U.K. versions of the album, how we discovered Howard's music, and more. It's always a blast talking to Jon, so be sure to give the Hustle Podcast a listen.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 156: Tom Galgano of IZZ Discusses Debut Solo Album

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0400

My guest for this episode is IZZ co-founding member Tom Galgano, who has finally put out his first solo album after more than 25 years as a professional musician. Sleepwalking in a Strange Land will present many surprises for longtime IZZ fans, but at the same time, there is a lot that the band's longtime supporters will love. Tom was kind enough to take me through his process, his musical background, how he formed IZZ, his approach to soloing, which IZZ albums he would have liked to have worked on more, and much more. To keep up with Tom, follow along on the IZZ Facebook page and you can get the new album digitally or on CD at the IZZ Bandcamp site.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 155: Arjen Anthony Lucassen on Solo Album "Songs No One Will Hear"

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Arjen Anthony Lucassen, best known for his Ayreon all-star progressive rock project, is back with his first solo album in 13 years. Songs No One Will Hear is a conceptual piece about the world finding out that an asteroid is coming to destroy the planet in five months' time. The music is eclectic — at times fun, at others serious, with an excellent blend of darker and lighter moments. Arjen was kind enough to talk to me about his new album, his musical past, working with legendary actor Rutger Hauer on his last solo album, and many other topics. Learn more about Arjen's work at https://arjenlucassen.com/.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 154: Author Andrew Wild Discusses 80s British Prog Rock Scene

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0400

It was my honor recently to speak with music writer Andrew Wild, who has written books about the likes of Queen, Fleetwood Mac, Dire Straits, and Pink Floyd, as well as about the iconic Live Aid concert festival. Andrew just released his second book about the 1980s "neoprog" era in England, chronicling six British bands that kept the progressive rock torch alive when the 1970s bands were either fading out or pivoting to more pop-oriented sounds. Those bands are: Marillion, IQ, Pallas, Pendragon, Twelfth Night, and Solstice. The book, A Playground of Broken Hearts: the Progressive Rock Revival 1984 to 1989, is a sequel to his A Mirror of Dreams: the Progressive Rock Revival 1981 to 1983. Andrew spoke to me about his music history, how he came to write about these six bands, how those groups kept the prog scene alive, and much more (including his upcoming book about Big Big Train!). Learn more about Andrew's work at https://www.andrew-wild.co.uk/ or follow him on Facebook at Andrew Wild - Author.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 153: Mark Zonder of A-Z Discusses "A2Z2"

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 12:22:56 -0400

My guest for this episode is Warlord and former Fates Warning drummer Mark Zonder, who was kind enough to talk to me about A-Z's sophomore album, A2Z2, which dropped June 6 on Metal Blade Records. A-Z provides catchy and accessible hard rock music that's a bit more adventurous than your typical AOR fare. The band is made up of accomplished musicians and they just flat out rock. The band's second album has more bite and has more progressive elements than the debut, as A-Z continues to define its sound. Big thanks to Mark for telling me about his musical background, playing in Fates Warning, forming A-Z and more. Learn more about A-Z at www.a-zband.com or follow them on Facebook.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 152: Roine Stolt of The Flower Kings Discusses "LOVE"

Mon, 05 May 2025 08:00:00 -0400

I welcome back the legendary Roine Stolt from The Flower Kings to discuss LOVE, the new album from the Swedish progressive rock masters. This 17th studio release is sure to appeal to longtime fans of the band, as The Flower Kings have produced an album that builds on their recent releases while calling back to their classic sound. Roine was kind enough to tell me the stories behind the recording and writing of LOVE, the guitars he used, and even a few surprises about the band's co-headlining tour with Neal Morse & the Resonance. Learn more about the band at their Facebook page or at roinestolt.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram, Bluesky, and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 151: Imminent Sonic Destruction Interview - "Floodgate"

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400

My guests for this episode are Tony Piccoli and Pete Hopersberger from Michigan-based progressive metal outfit Imminent Sonic Destruction. Tony has been on the show before, back on Episode 58 to discuss the band's third album, The Sun Will Always Set, but the band is back with fourth album, Floodgate, which dropped April 25 on FC Records. Tony and Pete discussed the making of the album, the stories behind the songs, Pete's musical background, and much more. Learn more about the band on their Facebook page or at imminentsonicdestruction.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 150: Phil Keaggy of Cosmic Cathedral Discusses "Deep Water"

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400

My guest for this episode is legendary guitarist Phil Keaggy. Phil has joined forces with Neal Morse, ex-Genesis drummer Chester Thompson, and noted session bassist Byron House to form a new prog rock supergroup called Cosmic Cathedral. The band's debut album, Deep Water, drops April 25 from Inside Out Music. Phil was kind enough to tell me how the project came about, the making of the record, his musical beginnings and more. Cosmic Cathedral rocks, swings, grooves, and is full of all the proggy goodness you'd expect from a project involving Neal Morse.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 149: Steve Babb of Glass Hammer - Rogue

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400

After the heavy, guitar-driven science fiction epic Arise (2023), Glass Hammer returns with the band's most accessible album yet. Co-founder Steve Babb returns to Michael's Record Collection to discuss the brand new album Rogue, the most human of all Glass Hammer's concept albums. Drenched in keyboards, Rogue shares connective tissue with some of Glass Hammer's most beloved albums, with hints of Genesis and Yes mixed with dream pop, space rock, and 80s synth pop influences. Steve was kind enough to share the stories behind the concept and the music with me. Find out more about the band at glasshammer.com or order their music at glasshammer.bandcamp.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 148: Dave Kerzner on New Genesis Lamb Tribute

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400

My guest for this episode is repeat offender Dave Kerzner, making his third appearance on the show. In his first, we discussed one of his all-time favorite albums, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway by Genesis. That was a few years ago and he hinted about a Lamb tribute album in the works featuring performers such as Francis Dunnery (It Bites), Nick D'Virgilio (Big Big Train), Billy Sherwood (Yes), Steve Rothery (Marillion), and others. That album is now a reality, with the recent release of Sonic Elements' IT - A 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Lamb Lies Down on Broadway by Genesis. Dave was kind enough to tell me the hows and whys of the new album, which was obviously a painstaking labor of love. It's well crafted, honors the source material, and includes a few pleasant surprises. Find out more about Dave's work at davekerznermusic.com and sonicelements.bandcamp.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. I'm also on Bluesky now as well. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 147: Grackle Interview - All That Matters

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0400

For this episode, I'm joined by three members of Grackle, a Louisville, Kentucky-based indie/progressive rock band that defies simple classification, with elements of prog, alt-rock, jazz, classical, folk, classic rock, and more. Primary songwriter Steve Katsikas (vocals, keyboards, saxophone, etc.) along with backing vocalist Jennifer Lauletta and drummer Jeff Gard stopped by for a discussion of the band's recently released third album, All That Matters, which sees Grackle take a big step forward in development in songwriting and finding themselves as a band. Big thanks to the three musicians for the chat. Check out Grackle's website at grackleband.com, follow them on Facebook, and sample their music at grackleband.bandcamp.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. I'm also on Bluesky now as well. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 146: Peter Nicholls and Mike Holmes of IQ on "Dominion"

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0400

My guests for this episode are the principal writers for the British progressive rock band IQ, Peter Nicholls (lyrics) and Mike Holmes (music). The lead singer and guitarist, respectively, along with their bandmates are set to release the band's 13th album, Dominion, on Giant Electric Pea Records on March 28. The two discussed the album's music, lyrics, and writing process, their musical backgrounds, Peter's fake-it-til-you-make-it approach to becoming one of the most unique voices in progressive rock, and more.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. I'm also on Bluesky now as well. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 145: Kevin J. Anderson Part 2 - Rush, Neil Peart, and Clockwork Angels

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0400

It's Part 2 of my interview with bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson! In this episode, Kevin discusses how he found out he was going to write the novelization for Rush's Clockwork Angels album, working with Neil Peart on the books, his friendship with Neil, his love of Rush's music, and his thoughts on the Clockwork Angels album. Visit wordfire.com for more information on Kevin's work.

Get in on Kevin's Terra Incognita and Roswell Six Kickstarter here.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. I'm also on Bluesky now as well. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 144: Kevin J. Anderson Part 1 - Terra Incognita and Roswell Six Kickstarter

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0400

My guest for this episode is New York Times bestselling author Kevin J. Anderson, who is firing up a new Kickstarter (see URL below) today to reissue his outstanding Terra Incognita trilogy in special hardcover and bespoke editions. What does this have to do with my record collection? All three of Kevin's novels in the trilogy have a companion album of original progressive rock songs performed by an all-star cast, helping to bring the story to life. The "band" name is Roswell Six, and only two of the albums came out while the books were being released. The third album has finally been completed and may be the best of the bunch. In this first part of my interview with Kevin, he discusses how he became a fan of progressive and what we now call classic rock, the Terra Incognita kickstarter, how he brought his novel/album idea to fruition, why the third album wasn't originally made, how that eventually became a reality, and more. Part 2 will drop next week, in which Kevin discusses his love of Rush, collaborating with Neil Peart on the Clockwork Angels steampunk novels, his love for the Clockwork Angels album, and more. Visit wordfire.com for more information on Kevin's work.

Get in on Kevin's Terra Incognita and Roswell Six Kickstarter here.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. I'm also on Bluesky now as well. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 143: Jonas Reingold Discusses New Karmakanic Album "Transmutation"

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Current Steve Hackett bassist and ex-Flower King Jonas Reingold is back with the sixth Karmakanic album, Transmutation. The new album sees Karmakanic as less of a band and more of a collective of musicians, featuring a new lead vocalist in John Mitchell (Lonely Robot, Arena, It Bites, Kino, Frost*). Jonas was kind enough to tell me about the making of Transmutation, his musical background, joining the Flower Kings and Steve Hackett's band, being in Los Angeles to mix the record during the height of the wildfires, and much more. Check out mor on Karmakanic at jonasreingold.se.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. I'm also on BlueSky now as well. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 142: Riverside's Michal Lapaj Discusses Live ID

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0500

My guest for this episode is Riverside keyboardist Michal Lapaj! The excellent Polish heavy prog rockers toured extensively for the outstanding 2023 album ID.Entity, and that has resulted in the recent release of a new live album, Live ID. Michal talks about the tour, a bit about the making of the live album and ID. Entity, the loss of guitarist Piotr Grudzinski, his musical beginnings, how he ended up in Riverside, and more. You can learn more about the band at riversideband.pl.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. I'm also on BlueSky now as well. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 141: John Boegehold of Pattern-Seeking Animals on "Friend of All Creatures"

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0500

My guest for this episode is composer and multi-instrumentalist John Boegehold of Pattern-Seeking Animals! The band is releasing its fifth studio album on Feb. 14 titled Friend of All Creatures. The album features all the prog rock goodness you've come to expect in a melodic and accessible package. In addition to the making of the record, John talks about his musical past, his approach to writing, and much more. Learn more about the band at www.psanimals1.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 140: Maiah Wynne Returns with Debut Solo Album

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Way back in Episode 67, I had the pleasure of speaking with Maiah Wynne about her involvement with Envy of None, a project featuring Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson, on which she sang lead vocals. Maiah is back with her debut solo album, and the talented singer-songwriter has made an exquisite first solo impression with Out of the Dark, a heartbreakingly beautiful collection of songs that span 10 years of her life. In addition to discussing the album's songs track by track, Maiah was kind enough to talk about what's next for Envy of None, some of her struggles that led to the new album's themes, Lifeson's involvement on some of the songs on her album, learning about making videos, and more. Learn more about Maiah's work at www.maiahwynne.com!

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 139: Neal Morse Returns to Discuss "No Hill for a Climber"

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Progressive rock master Neal Morse is a prolific and qualitative force in modern prog and he's back on the show to talk about a brand new band project called Neal Morse & the Resonance. The band will drop its debut album, No Hill for a Climber, Nov. 8 on Inside Out Music. Neal discusses the other band members, making the album and writing the songs, his recent solo acoustic tour, an exciting new collaboration with Chester Thompson and Phil Keaggy coming soon, and more. Learn more about Neal and order the new album at nealmorse.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 138: Galahad Guitarist Lee Abraham Discusses New Solo Album

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Galahad guitarist Lee Abraham returns to the show to discuss Origin of the Storm, a brand new solo album (his 10th), which drops Oct. 21 on F2 Music. Lee was kind enough to discuss the making of the new album with me, along with the stories behind the songs. The new record should appeal to fans of melodic progressive rock with Steve Rothery-esque guitar work. Follow Lee Abraham Music on Facebook for more info.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 137: Jem Godfrey of Frost* Discusses "Life in the Wires"

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Progressive rockers Frost* return with the band's first official concept album, Life in the Wires, which is set to drop Oct. 18 on Inside Out Music. Founder, keyboardist, vocalist, producer, and primary songwriter Jem Godfrey was kind enough to take time out of his busy schedule to discuss the new album with me, as well as such topics as his musical beginnings, how he became a producer, producing No. 1 hits for pop artists, playing keyboards for guitar heroes Steve Vai and Joe Satriani, and much more. The new album should appeal to fans of the Frost* 2006 debut, Milliontown, although it includes sonic flavors from more recent albums as well. Learn more about Frost* at the band's website, frost.life.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 136: Dream Theater's Jordan Rudess Discusses "Permission to Fly"

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Dream Theater and Liquid Tension Experiment keyboard wizard Jordan Rudess joins me to discuss his upcoming solo album, Permission to Fly. Unlike many keyboard player solo albums, which focus on the keys and often use multiple singers and musicians, this one was put together like a band album, using a consistent lineup across the record. It's a cohesive album that has its moments of keyboard pyrotechnics, but also contains a strong commitment to servicing the songs. In addition to the album, Jordan discussed his musical background, joining LTE and Dream Theater, how he ended up on David Bowie's Heathen album, his take on AI's place in creating music, and more. Learn more about Jordan's work at jordanrudess.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 135: Jon Courtney of Pure Reason Revolution

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Jon Courtney is the founder, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist who drives modern prog rock outfit Pure Reason Revolution. The band is set to release its sixth album on Sept. 6, Coming Up to Consciousness. The themes on the record are lyrically personal ones to Jon, who was kind enough to discuss the album, getting the legendary Guy Pratt to play on it, his influences, and the band's career with me. Find out more about the band at https://www.purereasonrevolutionofficial.com/.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 134: IZZ Members Discuss New Album 'Collapse the Wave'

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Four members of the New York-based progressive rock band IZZ are my guests on this episode as we discuss their first new album in five years, Collapse the Wave. The new record is a fresh and energetic take on their signature sound that should please their longtime fans and impress newcomers. It was a blast learning about the making of the album. Be sure to check out their website at izzmusic.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 133: Andy Tillison of The Tangent Returns

Fri, 10 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Andy Tillison from The Tangent returns to talk to me about the new album To Follow Polaris, which is a unique record in the band's catalog. The primary reason for this is because it's all Andy this time. With his bandmates' busy schedules, Andy decided to have a go at a Tangent album himself, playing all the parts and trying to get into the headspace of his bandmates. The result is another solid release from The Tangent and it was kind of Andy to take the time to tell me about what went into making it. Learn more about The Tangent at https://www.thetangent.org.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 132: Saga Guitarist Ian Crichton Talks New Six By Six Album

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

My guest, Ian Crichton, has long been an underrated yet exciting guitarist primarily known for his work in the Canadian progressive pop/rock band Saga. Ian's still a member of that band, but he's also in an exciting trio called Six By Six with vocalist/bassist/keyboardist Robert Berry and Saxon drummer Nigel Glockler. Six By Six dropped its sophomore album, Beyond Shadowland, today, and like the debut record, it's full of melodic hard rock with pop sensibility and a bit of complexity that keeps things interesting. Ian was kind enough to tell me about his background, joining Six By Six, and the new record. Learn more about it at SixBySixBand.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 131: The Kings Are Here!

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Canadian power pop-infused party rockers The Kings are my guests for this episode. Well, at least bassist/vocalist David Diamond and guitarist Mister Zero, anyway. We discuss the band's 2023 release, The Longest Story Ever Told, the band's first release in 20 years. We also dove into their musical backgrounds, how they got Bob Ezrin to produce their debut album, the writing of their hit "This Beat Goes On/Switchin' to Glide," and much more. Learn more about the band at thekingsarehere.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 130: Big Big Train Founder Gregory Spawton

Sat, 17 Feb 2024 06:30:00 -0500

Big Big Train has been building momentum in the progressive rock world for years with their brand of quintessentially English, pastoral prog, but the sudden and tragic death of lead vocalist David Longdon dealt the band a huge blow. The band is about to release its first album without David on March 1 through Inside Out Music. New vocalist Alberto Bravin isn't Longdon, but his voice is well suited for what Big Big Train does well. Founding member Gregory Spawton was kind enough to discuss the new album with me, as well as such topics as his musical origin story, how the band got its name, how the band navigated the loss of Longdon and ultimately found Bravin, finally becoming a full-time career musician in his 50s, and much more. Learn more about the band at bigbigtrain.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 129: Shadow Circus Guitarist John Fontana on ”From the Shadows”

Sat, 30 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Independent progressive rockers Shadow Circus are back after a long hiatus with a brand new album, From the Shadows. The band released its fourth album on Halloween digitally and started shipping out CDs just recently. This latest release sees the band going heavier, darker, and much more introspective and personal than their previous albums, and it's given more punch with the contributions of former Pain of Salvation bassist Gustaf Hielm and drummer Ryan Van Poederooyen of The Devin Townsend Band. John gave the full backstory of the album and its songs and discussed his musical beginnings, the formation of Shadow Circus, why the band spent so much time between albums, and much more. Check them out at shadowcircus.bandcamp.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 128: Moon Safari’s Petter Sandstrom Discusses Himlabacken Vol. 2

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

After a 10-year absence, Swedish melodic progressive rock masters Moon Safari are back with their soaring five-part harmonies, melodic hooks, and fantastic musicianship on Himlabacken Vol. 2, the long-awaited follow-up to Himlabacken Vol. 1. Don't let the title fool you, the lyrics are in English (except for one short song). As good as the band's previous albums have been, this fifth studio album may end up towering over them all. Vocalist/guitarist Petter Sandstrom joins me to discuss his musical background, the forming of the band, the making of the new album, and much more. Check out https://www.moonsafari.se/ for more information on this wonderful and talented band out of Sweden.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 127: Celebrating 30 Years of Rush Counterparts

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Ryan Murphy and Jim Benner from the Rushfans community on YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter are my guests as we celebrate the recent 30th anniversary of Counterparts by Rush. It's hard to believe that "newer" Rush album is three decades old, but here we are. Ryan, Jim, and I go track by track, discussing the songs that make up this fantastic album and we give our song rankings from the record at the end of the discussion. Big thanks to Ryan and Jim for stopping by and be sure to check out the @Rushfans channel.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 126: Robert Reed on New Cyan Album ”Pictures From the Other Side”

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

My guest for this episode is composer, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Robert Reed, who is best known for his work with the outstanding modern progressive rock band Magenta. However, before there was Magenta, there was Cyan. Rob has put together a new incarnation of Cyan featuring standout musicians and the band has just released Pictures from the Other Side. These new Cyan albums are the same as the old ones ONLY in name, as Rob has reimagined the old Cyan songs with his new bandmates' talents in mind. He's also taken parts out, written new parts, and made changes all over the place. Big thanks to Rob for telling me about the all-new Cyan and this new release.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 125: Dave Kerzner - Heart Land Mines Vol. 1

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0500

Dave Kerzner returns for the first time since way back in Episode 24, when he and I discussed the Genesis classic, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, along with his music career up to that point. Dave's newest solo album dropped in mid-October. Heart Land Mines Vol. 1 is an outstanding mixture of classic rock, Americana, and progressive rock with diverse influences, standout playing, and (above all) excellent songwriting. Big thanks to Dave for giving me the full story on his latest release. You can learn more about Dave and his music at davekerznermusic.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 124: Nick D’Virgilio Talks DMJ, Kevin Gilbert, Genesis, Spock’s Beard, and More

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0400

My guest this week is multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and vocalist Nick D'Virgilio, who is perhaps best known as the drummer for progressive rock greats Spock's Beard and Big Big Train. Nick joined me to talk about the upcoming release of Sophomore, the appropriately titled second album by D'Virgilio, Morse & Jennings, a trio of talented vocalists who build accessible songs based on glorious three-part harmonies. Nick also spoke about his musical background, how he met Neal and Alan Morse and joined Spock's Beard, meeting Kevin Gilbert, finishing up Kevin's posthumous release The Shaming of the True, how he became one of the drummers on Genesis' final studio album Calling All Stations, working with Tears for Fears, and much more.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 123: Galahad Returns - The Long Goodbye

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Stuart Nicholson and Dean Baker from Galahad kindly returned to the show for this episode to discuss the band's brand new release, The Long Goodbye. This album was written at the same time as the songs from the band's 2022 release, The Last Great Adventurer, and Stu and Dean were generous with their time in discussing the making of the record and some of the stories behind the songs. It was great catching up with the two of them and the new record is sure to please those who have been enjoying the progressive rock Galahad has been releasing. Be sure to check out the band's website at galahadonline.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 122: Steve Babb of Glass Hammer

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Just when you think you know Glass Hammer, everything changes...the lineup, the vocalist, the style. Arise is another concept album from the Tennessee-based progressive rock project headed by Steve Babb (and, usually, Fred Schendel), but it's the band's first space opera. It's also a much heavier album than what longtime Glass Hammer fans are used to hearing. Steve was kind enough to talk to me about the new album, which drops next week, as well as his musical past, how he met Fred, some of the artists who inspire him, and much more.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 121: Dave Meros of Spock’s Beard and Pattern-Seeking Animals

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

I'm delighted to bring you this interview with Spock's Beard and Pattern-Seeking Animals bassist Dave Meros. Dave was kind enough to spend some time telling me about the upcoming Pattern-Seeking Animals album Spooky Action at a Distance, along with the upcoming 20th-anniversary release of Spock's Beard's Feel Euphoria album on vinyl. He also spoke about the making of that Spock's record and that period in the band's history when it transitioned from Neal Morse to Nick D'Virgilio as lead singer. Dave also dove into his musical background, playing Snow live in its entirety at MorseFest, and many other topics.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 120: Sean Timms Talks New Southern Empire & Unitopia Albums

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:29:24 -0400

Australian songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Sean Timms has had a charmed 2023 as part of four progressive rock releases this year. His new albums with Unitopia and Southern Empire came out a few weeks apart and have captured a lot of attention among prog rock fans this year. Both albums could end up on several "best of 2023" lists by the end of December. Sean was kind enough to tell me about both albums, as well as his musical background, meeting Steve Hackett, and much more. You can learn more about both bands on their Facebook or Instagram accounts.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 119: How To Decide What Album to Play When You Can’t Decide

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 06:30:00 -0400

Greetings, dear listeners. This episode could not be more different than the others. Rather than having an interview or an album discussion, I wanted to talk about how to choose an album to listen to when you're indecisive, like me, or simply aren't in the mood for any one particular thing. Many of us have sizable music collections and it can be difficult to make a decision when looking at your shelves full of discs or LPs. I have a couple of methods I want to share with you this week and I hope you'll share your methods with me.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 118: Roine Stolt of The Flower Kings

Sat, 26 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Swedish progressive rock masters The Flower Kings are back with a new album, Look At You Now, which drops here in the U.S. on Sept. 8. I was fortunate enough to catch up with Roine Stolt to discuss the new album, his songwriting process, the band's current lineup, his musical background, how he ended up in Kaipa and Transatlantic, and much more. To keep up with Roine and his band, visit roinestolt.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 117: George Lynch of Dokken, Lynch Mob Talks Heavy Hitters II

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Dokken and Lynch Mob legend George Lynch is my guest to discuss a new album he put together with ex-Dokken bassist Jeff Pilson. Heavy Hitters II is the duo's second album of cover songs, done as heavy rock tracks. This time out, the two former bandmates enlisted the soulful Bernard Fowler, backup singer from the Rolling Stones, to lend his voice to the proceedings. The new record pulls from several genres and eras, but the music delivers what you've come to expect (and love) from Lynch & Pilson. George also talked about his musical beginnings, his love of old R&B, his time in Dokken, and much more. Learn more about his work at georgelynch.com.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 116: Carlos Cavazo Talks New King Kobra Album

Sat, 12 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

It was a treat to talk to the legendary Carlos Cavazo, who rose to prominence in the 1980s playing guitar for Quiet Riot as the band brought heavy metal music to the top of the Billboard charts. Carlos is now in Carmine Appice's 1980s band, King Kobra, and they've got a new album out called We Are Warriors. Carlos talked about how he joined forces with Carmine Appice and company, the making of the album, his musical origin story, joining and having success with Quiet Riot, briefly becoming a member of Ratt, and much more. Big thanks to Carlos for his time.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 115: Simon Collins

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 11:58:12 -0400

In my opinion, not enough people know about the excellent music career of Simon Collins. The son of Genesis legend Phil Collins, Simon is a talented musician and songwriter in his own right, both collaboratively and as a solo artist. I spoke with Simon about his musical origin story, going on Genesis tours as a child, the rise and fall of the outstanding progressive rock band Sound of Contact, his recent eMolecule collaboration with Kelly Nordstrom, and my favorite of his solo works: U-Catastrophe, which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. Big thanks to Simon for his time.

Please hit the like button and/or leave a rating/review wherever you consume this podcast. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 114: Doug Ott of Enchant

Sat, 29 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

It's a banner year for Enchant, as the band's 1993 debut album, A Blueprint of the World, turns 30 years old in 2023 and their 2003 Tug of War album turns 20. So, for this episode I spoke with guitarist Doug Ott extensively about both albums, his musical background, band personnel changes, searching for his guitar tone, and much more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram and/or TikTok. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 113: David Cousins of the Strawbs Returns

Sat, 22 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0400

David Cousins of the Strawbs returns to MRC! A guest way back on Episode 7, David joins me to discuss the new Strawbs album, The Magic of It All. The band's new record was recorded in Cape Town and has a decidedly South African flavor running through it. David was kind enough to tell me about the recording of the album, how the idea of recording in South Africa came about, the origins of some of the songs, and much more.

Episode 112: A Cheap Trick Concert and Venue Review

Sat, 15 Jul 2023 07:30:00 -0400

On June 28, the legendary Cheap Trick was the first band to headline a new outdoor concert venue in Clearwater, Florida, called The Sound at Coachman Park. I was fortunate enough to attend the show with my friend Ben Montgomery from the Records Revisited Podcast. Ben joins me for this show as we review the concert, which was his first time seeing Cheap Trick and my first time seeing them since 1987. We not only gave our thoughts on the band's performance, but also on the new venue itself.

Episode 111: Jim Peterik Talks Survivor, Pride of Lions

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 00:05:36 -0400

Grammy Award-winning songwriter Jim Peterik (Ides of March, Pride of Lions, ex-Survivor) joins me for this episode and I crammed as many topics in as I could while still trying to do justice to his excellent new Pride of Lions album, Dream Higher. Jim was a fantastic interview and has collaborated with some of the biggest artists in rock history. He not only co-wrote the iconic rock anthem "Eye of the Tiger" and most of Survivor's best-known songs, but he also co-wrote several 38 Special hits, collaborated with Sammy Hagar on "Heavy Metal," and has had a fascinating career in rock. His autobiography is damn good, too! Learn more about Jim's work at jimpeterik.com.

Episode 110: Progressive Rock Legend Neal Morse

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 14:14:10 -0400

Here's an interview I've been wanting to do for a long time! My guest is the legendary Neal Morse, founder of Spock's Beard and currently a solo artist, a member of The Neal Morse Band, Flying Colors, Transatlantic, and D'Virgilio, Morse & Jennings. I spoke with Neal about many topics, including his two upcoming releases, An Evening of Innocence & Danger: Live in Hamburg by The Neal Morse Band, and a new solo prog rock concept album, The Dreamer - Joseph Part One. We covered a variety of subjects and Neal was gracious with his time. To find out more about these two releases and Neal's work in general, check out www.nealmorse.com.

Episode109: Whitesnake Guitarist Joel Hoekstra

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

It was a real treat for me to talk with guitar legend Joel Hoekstra, who is probably best known for having been in Whitesnake for nearly a decade. He's also a member of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Revolution Saints, and Iconic. He's played on Broadway in Rock of Ages, toured with Cher, and is a former member of Night Ranger. Joel's solo project, Joel Hoekstra's 13, has a new album dropping soon called Crash of Life. It's another standout effort from Joel and an all-star cast of musicians and Joel was gracious enough to take the time to talk to me about all of the above. Find out more about Joel and his work at JoelHoekstra.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and at some levels you can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Episode 108: Talking Record Store Day with Park Ave CDs owner Sandy Bitman

Sat, 03 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400

If you like Record Store Day, like I do, you look forward each year to seeing what titles will be available and strategizing for the big event. But what goes on behind the scenes? How do the record stores deal with RSD? I questioned Sandy Bitman, owner of Orlando, Florida's Park Ave CDs to find out more about Record Store Day, record store ownership, and more. It was a fun conversation, and a bit of a departure from the normal album discussion. I hope you like it. Support your local, independent record store!

Episode 107: Remembering Gordon Lightfoot

Fri, 05 May 2023 00:30:00 -0400

Well, I can't say that these tribute shows are getting any easier, especially when we're remembering an artist as legendary as the incomparable Gordon Lightfoot. Joining me to talk about Gordon's talent, legacy, and vast music catalog is Sly Dog from the Sly Dog Music-Cast. We share our experiences of how we became Gordon Lightfoot fans, discuss his underrated work, and try to process his loss. Be sure to check out the Sly Dog Music-Cast.

Episode 106: Deen Castronovo Talks Journey, Revolution Saints and More

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:10:00 -0400

This week's episode is a special one as I spoke with Journey drummer Deen Castronovo about a variety of topics, including the new album, Eagle Flight, by his other band, Revolution Saints. It's the band's fourth album and features a new lineup that includes guitarist Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Trans-Siberian Orchestra) and bassist Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, Black Swan, ex-Dokken), with Deen on drums and lead vocals. We spoke about Deen's early influences, learning the drums, how he met Neal Schon and was invited to join Bad English, playing with Ozzy, and much more, including the making of the great, new Revolution Saints album.

Episode 105: Remembering Gentle Giant’s Ray Shulman

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 00:28:51 -0400

I'm joined by IZZ bassist/vocalist/guitarist John Galgano to celebrate the supremely talented multi-instrumentalist Ray Shulman, a founding member of progressive rock legends Gentle Giant. Ray passed away on March 30 at age 73 and his death hit me hard, as he was one of the first guests I had on this show, back on Episode 12, when we discussed the making of the Free Hand album. John was the perfect guest to discuss Ray, because he's also a bassist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter, and he too is in a band with a sibling, just as Ray was in Gentle Giant with brothers Derek and Phil.

John and I talk about what made Ray and Gentle Giant great, our favorite GG albums, and prog rock in general. Near the end, John discussed the reissue of his solo album, Real Life is Meeting, and what's next for IZZ.

Episode 104: dUg Pinnick of King’s X - Out of the Silent Planet

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 02:00:00 -0400

They may not be a household name, but if you're a rocker, many of your favorite bands know King's X. The band has been recording and performing for decades and in this episode, we're celebrating where it all started. I'm joined by bassist/vocalist dUg Pinnick to discuss the debut album by King's X, Out of the Silent Planet. The album turned 35 years old on March 28 and it's time to reflect on such a fantastic bland of rock, metal, funk, soul, gospel, and power pop that radio stations and the record company had no idea what to do with the band. I had a great time catching up with dUg and discussing the making of this record, his background, and more.

Episode 103: Stephan Lill of All My Shadows Talks ”Eerie Monsters”

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 01:50:27 -0400

Guitarist Stephan Lill returns to the show, but this time he's not talking (much) about his usual band, Vanden Plas like he did on Episode 72. This time he's got a new project called All My Shadows, which just released its first album, Eerie Monsters. The songs are shorter and more hook-laden than Vanden Plas' usual progressive metal offerings, but the presence of Lill, vocalist Andy Kuntz, and drummer Andreas Lill gives these songs a decidedly familiar flavor. Stephan talked about why he started All My Shadows, why 3/5 of Vanden Plas are in the band, the influences that led him to make this kind of music, and more. Learn more about All My Shadows at the band's Facebook page.

Episode 102: RPWL Front Man Yogi Lang Discusses ”Crime Scene”

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 08:30:00 -0400

I have another treat for you this week as I got the chance to speak with Yogi Lang, the front man and keyboard player for the excellent German progressive rock band RPWL. The band has a uniquely German-flavored brand of atmospheric prog rock that is heavily influenced by Pink Floyd. Yogi discussed the band's new album, Crime Scene, which drops March 17. The record explores some dark themes and bizarre stories and Yogi was kind enough to not only tell me about the songs, but also about RPWL's writing process, his early influences, and more.

Episode 101: We Came From Space - Overlords

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 08:30:00 -0500

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Bill Hubauer and Dave Buzard from the Pennsylvania-based We Came From Space about their new album, Overlords. This progressive rock release has the musicality that will satisfy prog fans and infectious hooks and soaring harmonies that any music fan would enjoy. In addition to giving me the story on making Overlords, the guys also talked about their early musical influences, opening for The Winery Dogs recently, and why they embrace humorous sci-fi B-movie stories on their website. I also asked Bill about his time in The Neal Morse Band. Find out more about the band at wecamefromspace.net.

Episode 100: A.C.T - Falling

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 08:30:00 -0500

It's the 100th episode of MRC! Joining me for this milestone show is Jerry Sahlin and Ola Andersson from the Swedish progressive rock band A.C.T. These guys are not your typical prog band, leaning heavily into melodies and harmonies inspired by the likes of ELO and the Beach Boys. If you threw songs by Saga, Dream Theater, and Jellyfish into a blender, the resulting music might sound like A.C.T. Jerry and Ola were kind enough to talk about their new release Falling, which will be released March 3 (two singles are already available on all the streaming sites). Falling is the third EP in a four-EP cycle that mirrors the seasons and this is, of course, fall. There are eight songs totaling about 30 minutes of excellent music the way only A.C.T can write and play it. The guys also told me about their musical backgrounds, the formation of the band, and much more. You can find out more about A.C.T on their Facebook page or visit actworld.se.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Episode 99: Mike Portnoy Discusses The Winery Dogs ”III”

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 08:30:00 -0500

I jumped at the chance to talk to one of my favorite drummers for this episode. I've been following Mike Portnoy's career for 20-odd years and he joins me this week to discuss the new album, III, by The Winery Dogs. This is a brilliant collection of technical blues-based rock featuring Portnoy, the incomparable Richie Kotzen, and bass legend Billy Sheehan. In addition to discussing the making of this Winery Dogs record, Mike talked about his musical beginnings, his musical chemistry with Neal Morse, why it's difficult for young bands to make a living as musicians, and more. Find out more about The Winery Dogs and their current worldwide tour at www.thewinerydogs.com.

Episode 98: Great Love Songs!

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 08:30:00 -0500

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! You may notice this week's show dropped a couple of days early. That's because I wanted this episode about great love songs to go live on Valentine's Day. What could be more appropriate? I'm joined by Jon Lamoreaux from The Hustle Podcast and Ben Montgomery from Records Revisited and we each selected five of our favorite love songs to present to you on this holiday. It was a fun discussion and there were some surprises along the way. Be sure to check out The Hustle Podcast and Records Revisited wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode 97: Kelly Nordstrom of eMolecule Discusses ”The Architect”

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 08:30:00 -0500

Canadian musician Kelly Nordstrom is half of a duo called eMolecule with Simon Collins, the drumming and singing son of Genesis legend Phil Collins. Kelly and Simon are dropping a new concept album called The Architect on Feb. 10 and it's a good one. This modern take on progressive rock is grounded in guitars, big drums sounds, electronics, atmosphere, mood, rock, and pop, all wrapped up in a modern production. Kelly talked to me about his background, the concept behind the album, the writing process, his previous work with Simon, the rise and fall of the band Sound of Contact, and much more. For more info head over to emoleculemusic.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Episode 96: Great Second Singles with the Great Song Podcast

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 08:30:00 -0500

J.P. Moser and Rob Alley of the excellent Great Song Podcast joined me this week to explore a unique topic. The three of us all selected five songs that were the second singles released from their respective albums that we loved more than that record's first single. The caveat to the topic was that us liking that first single was a requirement. This turned out to be a lot of fun and I think we got a nice mixture of different kinds of songs. Check out our picks and let me know what your favorite second singles are! The guys also talked about how they got started doing their show and tell listeners a little bit about it. You can find J.P. and rob at their regular haunt at greatsongpodcast.com or on any major podcast platform.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Episode 95: Robin McAuley Returns with New Solo Album, ”Alive”

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 08:30:00 -0500

Robin McAuley returns to Michael's Record Collection to talk about his new solo album, Alive, which is not a live album, but a studio release that drops on Feb. 17. The album rocks, has plenty of crunch and power, but it's also melodic as hell and Robin's sings the songs incredibly well. In addition to the making of the record, he spoke about what else he's been up to, what he has planned (including some live shows!), and much more. To find out more about Robin, check out his website at http://www.robinmcauley.com/ and (if you missed it), listen to Episode 56 of this show to catch his first appearance, in which he provides a lot more of his background and talks about Black Swan's Generation Mind album.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Episode 94: Todd Kerns Talks Heroes and Monsters

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 08:30:00 -0500

Canadian bassist and vocalist Todd Kerns (Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators) stopped by to talk about his new band, Heroes and Monsters! The trio consists of Kerns, guitarist Stef Burns (Huey Lewis & the News, Sheila E., Berlin, Alice Cooper, Y&T, etc.), and drummer Will Hunt (Evanescence, Dark New Day, Black Label Society, Staind, Slaughter, etc.). Their self-titled debut album drops Jan. 20 and features 10 tracks of excellent and varied hard rock. Heroes and Monsters makes quite an opening statement with this record and I got a little of the background on the project from Todd, who also discussed his musical influences, but we also devolved a bit into a discussion of KISS, a band we're both passionate about (Todd has played with Bruce Kulick's band on the KISS Kruise in recent years). Find out more about Todd's work at ToddKerns.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Episode 93: Galahad Discusses The Last Great Adventurer Album

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 08:00:00 -0500

It's a super-sized episode of Michael's Record Collection this week as I had the pleasure of speaking with Galahad vocalist Stuart Nicholson and keyboard player Dean Baker. The two musicians were generous with their time in telling me about their latest release, The Last Great Adventurer, which came out in late October of 2022. The two went deep into their songwriting process and some of the stories behind the songs, discussed their musical backgrounds and beginnings, and more. To find out more about the band, check out their website at galahadonline.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 92: Best Music of 2022

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0500

This week, it's just me, as I go over my favorite records from the calendar year that just ended. My best of 2022 episode features several categories of albums, my top tracks, and a good-sized list of honorable mentions. Feel free to let me know what albums I might have missed, as the year isn't long enough to get to everything!

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 91: Nevena Discusses Self-Titled Debut Album

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Nevena Dordevic is a talented pianist and vocalist from Serbia who now lives in Boston. She's teamed up with Lithuanian-born Swedish vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Michael Palace to record her self-titled debut album, Nevena, on Frontiers Music, which dropped on Dec. 9. It's an outstanding melodic rock album with lots of pop sensibility and hooks for days. It's one of my favorite discoveries of 2022 and I couldn't wait to talk to Nevena to hear the stories behind her musical background and this new album. She talked about her early influences, her time becoming a finalist on First Voice of Serbia, why she left Serbia to attend the Berklee College of Music, the music school she founded (Monody), and much more. You can learn more about Nevena's music at https://www.nevenamusic.com/ or follow her on Instagram or Facebook.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 90: Rob Moratti - Epical

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Solo artist Rob Moratti has just released his fifth studio album and it's a wonderul melodic rock album that calls back to the great 1980s albums by bands like Journey, Toto, and Survivor, but without sounding as if it was recorded in that era. Rob was briefly Michael Sadler's replacement in Saga for the band's 2009 album, The Human Condition. I spoke to Rob about his musical background, how he got involved with Saga, and about his great new solo record that is one of my favorite melodic rock releases of 2022. Find out more about Rob's work at RobMoratti.net.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 89: Best Morning Wakeup Songs

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 13:37:06 -0500

This week, I've enlisted the help of fellow music lovers Dave Zalatoris (from the Beer in Front Podcast) and Jon Lamoreaux (from The Hustle Podcast) to discuss our favorite morning wakeup songs. We each brought five songs to the table that get us going one way or another in the morning, whether that's a fast-paced track that gets the blood pumping or a beautifully arranged song that awakens us spiritually and helps us face the day. We've crafted three very different lists and even mention some of our honorable mentions as well. Here's a handy list, in case you want to check them out:

Michael - 1. ELO - Mr. Blue Sky, 2. Queen - Headlong, 3. Iron Maiden - The Trooper, 4. Rush - The Spirit of Radio, 5. R.E.M. - The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite.

Dave - 1. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Let the Day Begin, 2. The Killers - All These Things That I've Done, 3. The Darkness - I Believe in a Thing Called Love, 4. Stevie Wonder - Superstition, 5. Frank Turner - Get Better.

Jon - 1. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Awake, 2. James - Born of Frustration, 3. The Moody Blues - Your Wildest Dreams, 4. UB40 - Breakfast in Bed (feat. Chrissie Hynde), 5. Cat Stevens - Morning Has Broken.

There are two honorable mentions each as well. I hope you enjoy this discussion as much as we did!

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 88: Remembering Fleetwood Mac Legend Christine McVie

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0500

The sad news of Christine McVie's passing hit me like a punch to the gut on Nov. 30, and I felt like it was important to talk about her place in the iconic band Fleetwood Mac. Although it seems like Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham grab all the headlines, Christine was the connective tissue, playing well off both and happy to serve both the band and the music without needing all of the attention. I enlisted the help of friend Brian Colburn from the Playlist Wars podcast (also a fine solo artist and leader of his own band, Colburn & Co.) to help me process Christine's passing and celebrate her legacy of excellent music. You can find out more about Brian's work at BrianColburn.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 87: John Galgano of IZZ Discusses ”I Move”

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0500

New York progressive rockers IZZ just released their 20th anniversary remastered edition of their 2002 classic I Move, with 70+ minutes of bonus material on a second disc, but the sonic improvement on the new remaster of the proper album alone is worth buying this excellent modern masterpiece again. John talked a little about the remastering and where the new material came from, the band's origins, his musical background, the period of time that led to the making of I Move, and much more. For more information about the band check out their Bandcamp or their official website, izzmusic.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 86: Mark Boals of Ring of Fire Talks ”Gravity”

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Vocalist/bassist Mark Boals has worked with just about everyone. He's played and/or sung with Savoy Brown, Ted Nugent, Yngwie Malmsteen, just to name a few. His project Ring of Fire began in the year 2000 and quickly put out three studio albums from 2001-2004. Ring of Fire is back with a standout album, Gravity, which dropped Nov. 11. With Italian guitar virtuoso Aldo Lonobile stepping into Tony MacAlpine's considerable shoes on this record, Ring of Fire has put together another great release that should appeal to fans of power metal and more progressive outfits like Dream Theater and Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Mark talked to me about his background, how he got some of his past gigs, the new record, and much more. Find out more about Mark's work at MarkBoalsOfficial.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 85: Guitarist Jimi Bell of Autograph and House of Lords

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Guitarist Jimi Bell has had a busy 2022. A member of two top-notch rock bands, House of Lords and Autograph, plenty of his new music is hitting the streets. House of Lords' new release, Saints and Sinners, dropped Sept. 16, and Autograph's new album, Beyond, will become available on Nov. 18. Both records are on Frontiers Music. Jimi was gracious enough to talk to me about both of these fine, new albums, his musical background, how he came to open for Joan Jett and then appear in a movie with her, his invention (the Shred Neck), and much more. Find out more about Jimi's various projects at https://www.jimibell.com/.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 84: Carmine Appice Returns!

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 00:38:42 -0400

Legendary rock drummer Carmine Appice returns to discuss the remastered re-release of the original Vanilla Fudge lineup's Led Zeppelin covers. The album, released in 2007 as Out Through the In Door, has gotten cleaned up, a new name (Vanilla Zeppelin), and a new track order and has recently been released. I spoke with Carmine about covering Zeppelin and then the conversation meandered to many other projects he's got in the works, including new King Kobra, new Carmine Appice & Fernando Perdomo, and a new Beck, Bogert & Appice release. Keep up with Vanilla Fudge at https://vanillafudge.com/.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 83: Tommy Cain of Dead City Ruins Discusses ”Shockwave” Album

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Every now and then I discover a band that's got a few albums out but I'd never heard of them and their music quickly captures my heart. That's what happened with Dead City Ruins and their new album, Shockwave. The band is heavily influenced by 1990s hard rock and grunge, but the band has a knack for writing catchy and sometimes anthemic songs with great hooks and the musicianship is top notch. Guitarist Tommy Cain joined me from Brisbane to discuss the making of the new record, his musical background, his and the band's influences, working with producer Gene "Machine" Freeman, and more. Learn more about the band at https://deadcityruins.com/.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 82: Arthur Brown - Monster’s Ball

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:30:00 -0400

The legendary God of Hellfire himself, Arthur Brown, is still going strong at age 80. Arthur is releasing a new album Oct. 21 called Monster's Ball. Just in time for spooky season, Brown's latest album mixes humor and terror and features a host of fantastic guest musicians. He was kind enough to spend some time with me to talk about the new release, how he came to choose some of the songs, his work with such artists as Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson, the Alan Parsons Project, and Carl Palmer, hanging out at the UFO Club with the likes of Pink Floyd, and his musical beginnings. Big thanks to Arthur for his time. This interview was a real treat. To learn more about Arthur and his music, please visit thegodofhellfire.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 81: Steve Overland - Kings of Mercia

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 09:30:00 -0400

British vocalist Steve Overland is best known for his work with rock outfit FM, but he's teamed up with Fates Warning guitarist Jim Matheos on a new melodic hard rock band called Kings of Mercia. The band, which includes Matheos' Fates Warning bassist Joey Vera and legendary drummer Simon Phillips, has just released its self-titled debut album on Metal Blade Records. It's an outstanding blend of what Matheos and Overland are best known for and the album is full of catchy, well-crafted songs that showcase both Matheos' big guitar sound and Overland's bluesy vocals. Steve was kind enough to tell me about how he got involved with the band, how the writing was done, and a bit about his background as well. You can find out more about Kings of Mercia at the band's website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 80: Chez Kane - Powerzone

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0400

I'm very excited to bring you my interview with Welsh singer Chez Kane, who is part of the band Kane'd with her two older sisters. Chez is about to drop her second solo album, Powerzone, a follow-up to her 2021 self-titled debut. Once again, Crazy Lixx vocalist/guitarist Danny Rexon heads up the project, writing, playing on and producing the songs. Chez talked about the process a bit, her musical influences, why she likes this style of melodic rock, and much more. To find out more about Chez or order her music, pleas visit www.chezkane.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 79: Dean Friedman - American Lullaby

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0400

Singer-songwriter Dean Friedman isn't a one-hit wonder. His best-known song in the U.S., "Ariel" charted back in 1977, but he's had follow-ups do well in various other countries. Dean was gracious enough to join me this week to talk about his self-titled debut album, which came out 45 years ago, his musical background, some of the books he's authored, and his latest album, American Lullaby, which dropped last year. American Lullaby is a time capsule of the last six years, including the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections, the pandemic, divisive political views, climate change, and more. You can learn more about Dean's music at DeanFriedman.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like it on Facebook, and follow on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 78: Swedish Rockers Ström Discuss Debut Album

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Ström is a new band out of Sweden that wear their classic 70s hard rock influences on their sleeve. The band is set to release its self-titled debut album on Sept. 23 and Zdravko Zizmond (vocals) and Johan Siljedahl (guitars) were kind enough to tell me about the record, which was necessary because unlike many rock bands in Scandinavia, Ström lyrics and vocals are not in English. Ström sings in Swedish, which ironically sets them apart even in their home country for their chosen genre. Big thanks to Zdravko and Johan for their time. You can follow Ström on Facebook for more information and order their music on Sound Pollution's web shop.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 77: KISS - Love Gun with Shout It Out Loudcast

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 09:30:00 -0400

If you grew up in the 1970s in the midwest, you were practically issued your KISS Army uniform. We were weaned on KISS albums like Alive!, Destroyer, Rock and Roll Over, Double Platinum, and, of course, Love Gun. That album turned 45 years old this calendar year, so I thought it was a good time to discuss it. Joining me to do just that, and to tell me how they started their excellent podcast, is Tom and Zeus from the outstanding Shout It Out Loudcast. We shared our KISS origin stories and went track by track through this 1977 classic.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 76: Pink Floyd - Animals

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 09:30:00 -0400

I've been wanting to talk about Pink Floyd for quite some time. One of my favorite bands of all time, Pink Floyd had an incredible run of albums in the 1970s that were the whole package...music, lyrics, production value...it all worked. As 2022 is the 45-year anniversary of the album Animals, which is one of my favorites, I though that would be a good place to start. I enlisted the help of my friend Joel Craig, a former internet DJ who hosted the show Interstellar Overdrive at ProgRock.com and The Dividing Line a few years back. Joel and I discuss the album in depth and share our passion for this classic album.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 75: John Mitchell Talks New Lonely Robot Album

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 09:30:00 -0400

The talented John Mitchell joins me in this episode to discuss his latest album under the Lonely Robot moniker, A Model Life, which drops Aug. 26. This new record is Mitchell at his most vulnerable and introspective and it's brilliant. He also discussed the upcoming Arena album, the rise and fall of The Urbane, starting Kino, joining It Bites, how he became a member of Frost*, and much more. John was one of the most candid and honest interview subjects I've had over these 75 episodes.

Find out more about John's work at johnmitchellhq.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 74: Robert Berry - SiX BY SiX

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 09:30:00 -0400

It's been a little over a year and a half since I had California-based multi-instrumentalist Robert Berry on the show to discuss the Third Impression album he released under the name 3.2 as part of the trilogy of his work with Keith Emerson. Robert is back with a new power trio, alongside Saga guitarist Ian Crichton and Saxon drummer Nigel Glockler in SiX BY SiX. This new band rocks its guitar-based music on its self-titled debut release and Robert was gracious enough to tell me how the band came about and the stories behind the music and the graphic novel about the album that will follow next month.

You can learn more about this project at sixbysixband.com and you can follow the band on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 73: Talking Iron Maiden’s ”The Number of the Beast” with Uncle Steve

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 09:30:00 -0400

I've been wanting to talk about Iron Maiden for some time, and outside of the band itself, who better to do that with than the host of the excellent Uncle Steve's Iron Maiden Zone podcast? Steve joined me to give me his Iron Maiden origin story and to tell me a little about his show. We then dove into a discussion of Maiden's iconic classic The Number of the Beast, which turned 40 years old this year from start to finish. You can find Uncle Steve's Iron Maiden Zone wherever podcasts are available and you can follow him on Twitter. My thanks to Steve for his time. This was a fun discussion.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 72: Stephan Lill - Vanden Plas Live & Immortal

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 09:30:00 -0400

This week I had the pleasure of speaking with Vanden Plas guitarist Stephan Lill. The German progressive metal masters have a new live CD, LP, and video release coming out Aug. 12 called Live & Immortal, which captured a full concert performance on the band's Chronicles of the Immortals tour. Stephan discussed why the band seldom tours, takes a long time between albums (especially live albums), how he got into rock music, and much more.

For more info on Vanden Plas, visit the band's website at VandenPlas.de or check them out on Facebook.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 71: Mary Fahl - Can’t Get It Out of My Head

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Former October Project vocalist Mary Fahl has had a solo career as unique as her voice. She's got a new album out called Can't Get It Out of My Head, which is made up of her early favorite classic songs that became part of her musical DNA. Mary was kind enough to talk about the making of the album, how she reimagined the songs to put her own spin on them, how she ended up doing a song for an Anne Rice audiobook, how she got dragged back into music, and much more.

For more information on Mary Fahl, go to MaryFahl.com or look for Mary Fahl Music on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and even Tiktok.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 70: Ryo Okumoto - The Myth of the Mostrophus

Thu, 21 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0400

Keyboardist Ryo Okumoto (Spock's Beard, ProgJect) joins me to discuss his upcoming solo album, The Myth of the Mostrophus, which drops July 29. It's his first solo release in 20 years and it's amazing. He enlisted the help of his Spock's Beard and ProgJect bandmates on an album that is cohesive, progressive (in all the right ways), and fun. Ryo also talked to me about his background, how he ended up in both of his main bands, and much more.

Learn more about Ryo Okumoto's work and order his merch at his website, RyoOkumoto.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 69: You Asked, I Answered

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 09:30:00 -0400

What does a podcaster do when he starts to get actual email questions that he's been asking for but forgets to answer those on his shows? Well, in my case, I wait a couple more weeks, get a few more questions, and go ahead and do a whole show about them. Thanks to everyone who has been sending in questions via email (michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com) or to me on Twitter (@MikesRecords). This show covers concerts, albums, bands, and even this podcast. I hope you enjoy this episode, which is a bit different than the standard format.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 68: Talking Pat Benatar’s ”Precious Time” with Playlist Wars

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 09:30:00 -0400

For this episode I welcome back to the show Brian Colburn, an Americana artist from New Jersey and the co-host of the popular Playlist Wars podcast. Brian and I have a shared love of the Precious Time album by Pat Benatar. With the 1981 album serving as our favorite Benatar record, we took the opportunity to spin it a few times and go through it track by track.

To learn more about Playlist Wars, head to their website. Be sure to visit Brian's Bandcamp page to check out his music. And, of course, check out Pat Benatar's website for all things Pat Benatar.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 67: Maiah Wynne from Envy of None

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:30:00 -0400

The delightful Maiah Wynne from Envy of None (and a terrific solo artist) was kind enough to talk to me about her career, her musical background, working with legendary Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson and Coney Hatch's Andy Curran in Envy of None, the stories and meanings behind the songs on the band's self-titled debut album, and so much more.

To learn more about Envy of None, visit the band’s website and to learn more about Maiah Wynne, you can visit her solo website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 66: The Tangent’s Andy Tillison Discusses ”Songs from the Hard Shoulder”

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 09:30:00 -0400

For this week's episode, The Tangent's Andy Tillison joined me to discuss his band's new album, "Songs from the Hard Shoulder." Andy dove into the stories behind the songs on the record and other topics include: his intro to music, how he came to love Close to the Edge by Yes, some of the thoughts behind some of The Tangent's top songs, and much more.

Find out more about The Tangent at www.thetangent.org and follow the band's Facebook page.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 65: Weird Al’s ”Dare to Be Stupid” with the Beer’d Al Podcast

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Music comes in all kinds of forms and some of them are funny as well as pleasing to the ear. In my opinion, that perfectly describes "Weird Al" Yankovic's 1985 classic, Dare to Be Stupid. Joining me to dissect this excellent slice of mid-80s pop culture is Lauren Carey from the outstanding Beer'd Al Podcast. Lauren and her brother combined their two favorite things, craft beer and the music of Weird Al, to create a unique and entertaining show. In addition to discussing Dare to Be Stupid, we talk about the origin of the Beer'd Al Podcast, where her love of Weird Al began, and more. And look for me on the next episode of Lauren's show as well, as we take a different angle and rank our songs from the album, countdown style.

Learn more about the Beer'd Al Podcast at beerdalpodcast.com and download it basically everywhere podcasts are available.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 64: Billy Joel Drummer Liberty DeVitto on ”The Nylon Curtain”

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 09:30:00 -0400

I couldn't wait to get this episode out because I spoke with longtime Billy Joel drummer Liberty DeVitto. I've always been a big fan of Billy's music and part of the reason for that is his outstanding band, highlighted by DeVitto's work behind the drum kit. With Billy's The Nylon Curtain album set to celebrate its 40th anniversary in September, I wanted to talk to Liberty about a record which is very special to me. But we didn't just talk about the album. We also spoke about his autobiography, his involvement with the excellent Hired Gun documentary, his trip behind the iron curtain to play rock music in the Soviet Union, his current bands (the Slim Kings and the Lords of 52nd Street), and more. Big thanks to Liberty for his time.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more. Learn more about Gentle Giant releases on the band's official webstore.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 63: Gentle Giant’s Derek Shulman - ”Civilian”

Thu, 26 May 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Derek Shulman, founding member of Gentle Giant and successful record executive, is my guest for this episode. We're here to talk about the remastered and reissued "Civilian" release that just dropped. Derek also talked about his musical beginnings, ending the band, his transition from musician to record executive, his new endeavors in the music documentary space, and what other releases Gentle Giant fans can look forward to in the near future. Big thanks to Derek for his time.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more. Learn more about Gentle Giant releases on the band's official webstore.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 62: Renan Zonta of Skills on ”Different Worlds”

Fri, 20 May 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Melodic hard rock fans have another new supergroup to check out and it's a good one. Skills is a project that partnered guitarist Brad Gillis (Night Ranger), bassist Billy Sheehan (Mr. Big, The Winery Dogs, Sons of Apollo), drummer David Huff (Giant), and Brazilian vocalist Renan Zonta (Electric Mob, Brother to Brother). The band just released its debut album, "Different Worlds," and it's a really good one. I had a blast speaking with Renan about how Skills came about, the making of the record, his background and influences, his time on the Brazilian version of The Voice, and much more. Check out Renan on his Instagram (@renanzonta).

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 61: Jonathan Mover of ProgJect

Thu, 12 May 2022 09:30:00 -0400

For this week's show I checked in with drummer Jonathan Mover, the founder of the progressive rock homage band ProgJect. Jonathan has worked with some of the biggest names in music: Aretha Franklin, Alice Cooper, Joe Satriani, and the Tubes to name a few. He was briefly a member of Marillion in the 1980s and he helped Steve Hackett and Steve Howe form GTR. Jonathan was kind enough to tell me about how the ProgJect idea came about, how the tour went, and what's next for the band. He also discussed his background, how he fell in love with prog rock, his time in Marillion, and forming GTR.

To find out more about ProgJect, visit their website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 60: Talking The Who in Concert with Records Revisited

Thu, 05 May 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Ben Montgomery from the Records Revisited podcast became the first repeat guest in the history of Michael's Record Collection in this episode. I spoke with Ben because we both made the trip from Orlando to Tampa last week to see The Who on the band's "The Who Hits Back" tour. I didn't just want to compare notes on the show with Ben, but I also wanted to talk about how going to see bands live affects our music listening habits both in the leadup and aftermath of the show. Ben also gave a valuable tip for people attending shows at large arenas.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 59: Crashdïet - Automaton

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 09:30:00 -0400

For this episode, I spoke with Martin Sweet and Peter London of Crashdïet, a melodic rock band out of Sweden. The duo make up half of the band and they were kind enough to spend some time with me to discuss their forthcoming album, Automaton (out April 29). The album is sure to please fans of 1980s and 1990s hard rock with its catchy, anthemic choruses and standout musicianship. We also talked about the history of the band, their backgrounds in music, and even a new beer that will share a name with the new album.

Find out more about Crashdïet at their official website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 58: Imminent Sonic Destruction - The Sun Will Always Set

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Michigan progressive metal masters Imminent Sonic Destruction are about to release their third album, The Sun Will Also Set. The band already has two standout albums in its catalog and the third one may be the best of all. I spoke with guitarist/vocalist Tony Piccoli about the making of the album, the band's origins, his early influences and a lot more. Despite my promo tracks being in the wrong sequence, it was still a great listen and I've since fixed the problem with Tony's help.

Find out more about the band at their official website or at their Bandcamp.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 57: Nazareth Bassist Pete Agnew

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Rock and roll doesn't get much more old school than Scottish legends Nazareth. The band is still going more than 50 years since releasing their first album. Their 25th album, Surviving the Law, is coming out in mid-April, and bassist and founding member Pete Agnew was kind enough to tell me how this fresh new take on the Nazareth sound has come about. Pete and I also spoke about his introduction to music, switching from guitar to bass out of necessity, and (of course) that classic album Hair of the Dog.

You can learn more about Nazareth at the band's official website (https://www.nazarethdirect.co.uk/website/) or their Facebook page, and you can order Surviving the Law on colored vinyl or cassette from the Frontiers Music webstore.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 56: Robin McAuley - Black Swan’s ”Generation Mind”

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 09:30:00 -0400

Legendary Irish rock vocalist Robin McAuley has been a busy guy and the former McAuley Schenker Group frontman is about to have his second release with his newest band, Black Swan, drop in early April. Robin and I spoke in depth about the new Generation Mind album, his background, having his first hit song with a "Stairway to Heaven" cover, joining M.S.G., his successful Las Vegas show ("Raiding the Rock Vault"), and even a new upcoming solo album. It was great catching up with Robin and the new album flat out rocks. Learn more about Black Swan on their Facebook page.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 55: Oliver Wakeman - Collaborations, Yes, and More

Thu, 24 Mar 2022 09:30:00 -0400

I caught up with composer and keyboard maestro Oliver Wakeman this week to discuss the release of his newest box set, Collaborations. This three-CD set contains new reissues (with bonus tracks) of his The 3 ages of Magick collaboration with Steve Howe and his Ravens & Lullabies album with Gordon Giltrap. There's also a disc of previously unreleased live material with Giltrap and vocalist Paul Manzi (Sweet, ex-Arena). We also spoke about his background, coming from a family of famous keyboard players, his time in Yes and The Strawbs, his solo work, and much more.

Learn more about Oliver's music at his YouTube channel or at OliverWakeman.co.uk.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 54: August Zadra - Guiding Star

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 09:30:00 -0500

Dennis DeYoung's guitarist August Zadra has been in the music business a long time. Aside from playing with the legendary Styx front man for the last 12 years, August has been in several tribute bands and has played with some of the greats in rock music. Now he's put together his first solo project under the name Zadra and released his first album, Guiding Star. I spoke with August about this excellent, melodic, AOR album, as well as his influences, how he met Dennis, working with Jeff Scott Soto, and much more.

Check out August's Facebook page. You can order Guiding Star digitally from most online outlets and the CD is available on Amazon. The exclusive white vinyl version of Guiding Star is available only at the Frontiers online store (and you can save 10% on orders by signing up for their email newsletter when you visit).

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 53: Journey - Escape

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 09:30:00 -0500

This week's show is a little different. I'm discussing Journey's iconic 1981 "Escape" album with David Rohe and we're giving out song rankings from the album. Dave was the very first Michael's Record Collection Patreon supporter and I've known him for many years. We had a great time dissecting a classic record from the early 80s track by track and then ranking the songs to see how our lists compared.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 52: Kevin Gilbert’s ”The Shaming of the True” with Wayne Perez

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 09:30:00 -0500

This week's show discusses a criminally unknown album by a criminally unknown artist. Kevin Gilbert may not be a name you recognize but you've likely heard his work. If you don't know his bands Giraffe or Toy Matinee, you may be familiar with Sheryl Crow's debut album, on which Kevin co-wrote the majority of the songs and played multiple instruments. Kevin passed away at the young age of 29 in 1996 and his posthumous classic The Shaming of the True is an album worth owning. Here to talk me through the story behind it (and its impending vinyl release) is Wayne Perez, archivist for the estate of Kevin Gilbert and host of You Are Here: A Kevin Gilbert Podcast, on YouTube.

Learn more about Kevin Gilbert at KevinGilbert.com and the official Kevin Gilbert Facebook page, and check out You Are Here at the official Kevin Gilbert YouTube channel.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 51: John Payne Celebrates Asia, Aqua

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 09:30:00 -0500

It's never easy to replace a popular band's original lead singer and it's twice as hard when that singer is John Wetton. But that's what John Payne did, carving out his own niche as the lead singer and bassist of Asia through the 1990s and beyond, appearing on eight studio records with the band. John is hitting the road with Asia Featuring John Payne to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the band's self-titled debut album and the 30th anniversary of his first release with the band, Aqua. I spoke with John about joining Asia and the making of Aqua. We also spoke about the awkwardness of having two touring bands flying the Asia banner, some of his other recording projects (such as GPS and the Dukes of Orient), and he revealed the name of his next upcoming endeavor.

Learn more about John and the upcoming Asia Featuring John Payne tour at the band's website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 50: Legendary Drummer Carmine Appice

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 09:30:00 -0500

The one and only Carmine Appice is this week's guest! Carmine has been a force with Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, Rod Stewart, Ozzy Osbourne, Blue Murder, King Kobra, and several other bands and side projects and he's played with nearly every big name in rock music. I spoke with Carmine about a historic new release. A recording of the first ever Cactus concert was unearthed and released as The Birth of Cactus - 1970. It's a terrific document of the band's first live appearance. We also spoke about his work with other artists, such as Rick Derringer, Pink Floyd, Paul Stanley, and more.

Find out more about Cactus at the band's official website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 49: Lana Lane - Neptune Blue

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 09:30:00 -0500

Lana Lane has just released her first album in a decade with the outstanding new Neptune Blue. The queen of symphonic and melodic rock has taken a little of the complexity out and made more or less an album-oriented rock album that is accessible enough for the masses but with enough technical musical flourishes by her excellent contributing musicians to satisfy the progressive rock fans. I spoke with Lana about the making of this record, some of her guest vocal work, having her first vinyl release, her background, and more.

Find out more about Lana and her work at her website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 48:Talking Duran Duran’s Rio with Author Annie Zaleski

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 09:30:00 -0500

Author Annie Zaleski literally wrote the book on the seminal 1982 album Rio by Duran Duran. An album that began with sluggish U.S. sales turned into an iconic juggernaut on the strength of its songs, heavy rotation of hit singles on MTV, and the talent and sheer willpower of the five young men who made the record. Annie talked about how she got started as a writer, how she fell for Duran Duran's music, how she ultimately came to write about Rio for 33-1/3 Books, and what she learned along the way. We had a great conversation about the album, too.

You can learn more about Annie's work and order her book (including signed copies!) at her website or you can order it on Amazon or other major online retailers.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 47: Saga Frontman Michael Sadler Discusses ProgJect

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 09:30:00 -0500

Michael Sadler has one of the most unique voices in music. His work with Saga has been stellar through the years and he pops up periodically on releases by other artists. His newest endeavor is joining a band called ProgJect: the Ultimate Progressive Rock Experience. ProgJect pays homage to the progressive rock masters and the five-piece group is set to hit the road across the U.S., bringing prog rock to the people. It's God's work, really. I spoke with Michael about how he got involved with ProgJect, whether we might see a recording from the band soon, and his approach to carrying the mantle of legends like Jon Anderson, Phil Collins, Greg Lake and others...all in the same set! We also spoke about Saga's 40-year-old classic Worlds Apart album, his solo release Clear, some of his collaborations with other artists, and more.

Find out more about ProgJect at their website and keep up with the latest Saga news at Sagagen.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 46: Talking Cheap Trick at Budokan with Pat Francis

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 09:00:00 -0500

Pat Francis from the excellent Rock Solid podcast is like the godfather of music podcasters. His show is in its 11th year and is going strong with its best guests ever. Pat's show has a rotating format. One week it's an interview, the next it's a roundtable between Pat and his friends discussing an album track by track. This week, I was delighted to welcome Pat to this show to talk about Rock Solid, hunting down autographs after concerts, and (most importantly) about our shared love for Cheap Trick's essential live classic album, At Budokan.

Find out more about Pat's show at rocksolidpodcast.com and follow his Twitter!

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 45: Best Songs and Albums of 2021

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 09:30:00 -0500

It's the first annual Michael's Record Collection awards! For this episode, you're stuck with just me (no guests) as I walk through the songs and albums that stood out to me over the 2021 calendar year. Play along at home and tell me what I got right and wrong. I have a list of albums and songs below in case you want to check out any you're not familiar with, so if you don't want to be spoiled about the podcast, stop reading after the next two paragraphs.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Albums discussed in this episode:

Plush - Plush
Mason Hill - Against the Wall
Wildstreet - III
CHVRCHES - Screen Violence
Inglorious - Heroine
Chantel McGregor - Shed Sessions Volume One and Volume Two
Laura Meade - The Most Dangerous Woman in America
Leslie Hunt - Ascend (EP) / Descend (EP)
Lindsey Buckingham - Lindsey Buckingham
John Mayer - Sob Rock
Dennis DeYoung - 26 East Vol. 2
Night Ranger - ATBPO
ABBA - Voyage
Foo Fighters - Medicine at Midnight
Dee Snider - Leave a Scar
Iron Maiden - Senjutsu
Lifesigns - Altitude
Transatlantic - The Absolute Universe
The Neal Morse Band - Innocence & Danger
Mammoth WVH - Mammoth WVH
The Connells - Steadman's Wake
Apollo Junction — All In
Black Diamonds — No-Tell Hotel
Blackberry Smoke — You Hear Georgia
Chrissie Hynde — Standing in the Doorway: Chrissie Hynde Sings Bob Dylan
David Crosby — For Free
Dec Burke — Life in Two Dimensions
Dirty Honey — Dirty Honey (EP)
Duran Duran — Future Past
The Dust Coda — Mojo Skyline
Garbage — No Gods No Masters
Gary Kemp — INSOLO
Gary Numan — Intruder
Greta Van Fleet — The Battle at Garden’s Gate
Halsey — If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power
Inglorious — We Will Ride
Jackson Browne — Downhill from Everywhere
Land of Gypsies — Land of Gypsies
The Livesays — Not What I Bargained For
Micky Dolenz — Dolenz Sings Nesmith
Olivia Rodrigo — Sour
Rachel Flowers — Bigger on the Inside
Samantha Fish — Faster
Secret Sphere — Lifeblood
Steve Hackett — Surrender of Silence
Steven Wilson — The Future Bites
Styx — Crash of the Crown
Toad the Wet Sprocket — Starting Now
Velvet Insane — Rock ‘n’ Roll Glitter Suit
VOLA — Witness
Walter Egan — Fascination

Individual tracks discussed in this episode:

Billy Idol - "Bitter Taste"
Tears for Fears - "The Tipping Point"
Men Without Hats - "No Friends of Mine"
D'Virgilio, Morse & Jennings - "Julia"
Steven Wilson - "12 Things I Forgot"

Episode 44: Terry Ilous - Land of Gypsies

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 09:30:00 -0500

Terry Ilous isn't exactly a household name but he's an artist that has had some success across multiple genres. He fronted his band XYZ in the late 1980s and early 90s, spent more than eight years as Jack Russell's successor as the lead singer of Great White, and has done a lot of Latin-influenced and Flamenco-type music as well. Terry's new project, Land of Gypsies, released its self-titled debut album Dec. 10 and it pays tribute to some of the great bands of the 70s, such as Bad Company, Humble Pie, and early Foreigner and Whitesnake. Terry was gracious enough to talk to me about the making of Land of Gypsies, his time in Great White, the status of XYZ (new music coming?!?), some of his solo work, and more.

You can learn more about Terry at his website and you can order Land of Gypsies from Amazon or Frontiers Music or on the digital services.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 43: Genesis - The Last Domino Tour with Matt Wardlaw

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 09:30:00 -0500

I'm changing things up a little for this episode as instead of discussing a new or classic album, I enlisted Matt Wardlaw from Ultimate Classic Rock to compare notes on our recent experiences seeing Genesis on The Last Domino? Tour. Genesis is my all-time favorite band, so there was never a question of whether I was going to see them, so much as a question of where and how often. Matt and I saw them about a week apart in different cities but in similarly located seats. We broke down the setlist, the performance, our Genesis origin stories, and more. I hope you enjoy this special Michael's Concert Ticket Collection episode! Big thanks to Matt for his time.

You can follow Matt on Twitter at @MattWardlaw or find his work at UltimateClassicRock.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 42: Vinnie Moore of UFO Plays Pink Floyd

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 09:30:00 -0500

Vinnie Moore is a guitar master. He's carved out a great career for himself as a solo artist, a guest musician, and as a guitarist in the legendary hard rock band UFO since 2003. Vinnie recently joined a group of well-known musicians who took part in a great tribute record called Animals Reimagined - A Tribute to Pink Floyd. Playing on the album's best track, "Dogs," Vinnie was joined by ex-Rainbow vocalist Graham Bonnet, ex-King Crimson drummer Pat Mastelotto, Kasim Sulton from Utopia, and Dream Theater keyboard wizard Jordan Rudess. I spoke with Vinnie about his involvement in the project, his background in music, playing on Alice Cooper's Hey Stoopid record and the ensuing tour, performing with the legendary Peter Frampton, joining UFO, his solo career, and more.

Find out more about Vinnie and his music at vinniemoore.com. (He has a new solo album coming soon!)

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 41: Chuck Wright on New Solo Album, Quiet Riot, Giuffria & More

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 09:30:00 -0500

Bassist and composer Chuck Wright may not have a name you instantly recognize, but you've heard his music before. Chuck was in Quiet Riot and played and sang on some of that band's biggest hits and albums. He was also in the band Giuffria, which had a major hit single in the mid-80s called "Call to the Heart." He's played with everyone from Alice Cooper to Gregg Allman to John Waite to Eddie Money, as well as members of Guns N'Roses, Dream Theater, KISS, Skid Row, and Mr. Big. Now Chuck has a new solo project called Chuck Wright's Sheltering Sky, with a debut album scheduled for early 2022 and a new single out right now. "Army of Me" is a Bjork cover, which is unexpected, but it's great. Chuck spoke with me about the single, the album, the 30+ guest musicians he enlisted, his time in Quiet Riot and Giuffria, and so much more.

Check out Chuck's work and get updates on the new album at ChuckWright.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 40: Talking The Cars - Heartbeat City with Brian Colburn

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 09:30:00 -0500

It's a bonus episode of MRC this week. It's Thanksgiving week and I'm thankful to all the supportive folks out there who have downloaded Michael's Record Collection, streamed my videos on YouTube, subscribed to the MRC newsletter on Substack, and supported the show on Patreon. I'm also thankful to have met some great friends along the way while doing this show. One of those is Brian Colburn, a New Jersey musician who also happens to co-host the excellent Playlist Wars podcast. You may recall I had his podcasting partner Gomez on Episode 22 to discuss his show as well as Meteora by Linkin Park. Brian told me about his musical origin story, his own music, and then we discuss the fantastic 1984 album Heartbeat City by The Cars.

Check out Brian's music on Spotify or on his Bandcamp page and you can see a video of him singing Tom Petty's "Yer So Bad" with Hot Day at the Zoo at https://t.co/lhLSJIzqHV?amp=1. And find out more about Playlist Wars here.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists, come on the show to co-host, enter prize drawings, and more.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 39: Leslie Hunt - Ascend and Descend

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:30:00 -0500

Chicago-area singer/songwriter Leslie Hunt isn't a household name, but she should be. The lead singer of progressive rockers District 97 and a top 10 finisher on the women's side in Season 6 of American Idol, Hunt is a talented musician and writer with a fantastic voice. She's released two seven-song EPs this year, Ascend and Descend. They're companion releases but each have their own sound. Both are filled with short, catchy songs that reward repeat listens. Leslie was kind enough to spend some time with me, telling me about her background, how she hooked up with District 97, and we took a deep dive into Ascend and Descend.

You can find out more about Leslie Hunt and buy all of her music at LeslieHuntMusic.com.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits will escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 38: Talking Def Leppard - Pyromania with Def Lep Pod

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 09:30:00 -0500

Neil Poole hosts the excellent Def Lep Pod, a podcast that takes a deep dive into the music of Def Leppard in a humorous way. Neil treats Def Leppard's music with the utmost respect but each episode is a fun adventure through some aspect of the band's music, whether that's a song, an album, or a chat with a guest. I asked Neil about the origins of his Def Leppard fandom and his show and then we embark on a discussion of my favorite of the band's albums, Pyromania.

You can find Def Lep Pod wherever podcasts are offered, and you can follow him on social media: Def Lep Pod Neil on Facebook or @DefLepPod on Twitter.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits will escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 37: Dec Burke - Life in Two Dimensions

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 09:30:00 -0400

Irish-born progressive rocker Dec Burke is known for his time in Frost* and his former band Darwin's Radio. But he's a talented and respected solo artist as well, and he just released his fourth album, Life in Two Dimensions, in late September. It's chock full of guitar heroics, with a modern sound and production, but it retains Dec's melodic sensibilities, which he places first and foremost. Dec was kind enough to take a deep dive into the album with me and also talked about his influences, how he consumes music, why he changed from keyboards to guitar as his instrument of choice, working with Frost*, and more.

You can find out more about Dec Burke on his Facebook page.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits will escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 36: Talking Rush - Signals with Something for Nothing Rush Fancast

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 09:30:00 -0400

Steve and Gerry host the excellent Rush-centric podcast Something for Nothing: A Rush Fancast each week, informing and entertaining fans of the band Rush and converting new ones. I had them on to not only tell us about their show and how they got started, but also to talk about my favorite Rush album, Signals! In the first part of the show we talk about Something for Nothing, its origins, and how Steve and Gerry became the huge Rush fans they are. Then we get into the 1982 album Signals and have a track-by-track discussion on why this is a special record. I had a blast talking Rush with two of the best Rush talkers out there.

You can find Something for Nothing: A Rush Fancast on all the major podcast platforms, and you can find them on Twitter and on Instagram.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits will escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 35: Rachel Flowers - Bigger on the Inside

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Sometimes interviews are more of a treat than expected and this was the case when I got to talk to multi-instrumentalist and composer Rachel Flowers. You might know Rachel from the documentary Hearing is Believing, which chronicles her life. Born 15 weeks premature, Rachel lost her vision as a newborn. However, her parents quickly discovered that she had an incredible ear for music. Rachel started taking classical piano lessons at age four, was learning jazz at age nine and went on to some acclaim on YouTube for her performances of complex Emerson, Lake & Palmer songs. She just released her third studio album entitled Bigger on the Inside. Part jazz, part progressive rock, with classical, pop, and rock elements all mixed together, this album is a major achievement for Flowers. Her mom, Jeanie, also a musician, sat in on the interview and helped provide some insight as well.

To find out more about Rachel, please visit her website.

Order Rachel's music on Bandcamp.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits will escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 34: Chantel McGregor - Shed Sessions

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 09:30:00 -0400

For this episode, I had a great chat with UK singer/songwriter Chantel McGregor about her two summer 2021 releases, Shed Sessions Volume One and Shed Sessions Volume Two. This chat was fun despite the fact that: 1) I forgot my notes at the office and had to wing the interview from memory, and 2) There was a bit of background white noise emanating from something on Chantel's end that I couldn't eliminate in editing. It was worse before we started recording, so we managed to make it listenable but it isn't up to the quality standard I'd like. Regardless, it was fun learning about Chantel's two new (mostly) cover albums, the unexpected arrangements and songs, and the unusual way she recorded her vocals at home. I hope you enjoy it.

To learn more about Chantel McGregor and buy her music, check out her website.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits will escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up at michaelsrecordcollection.substack.com. Follow MRC on Twitter (@MikesRecords), like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 33: Gil Moore of Triumph - Rock and Roll Machine Documentary

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0400

I'm extremely excited about this episode because I got to talk to Triumph drummer and co-lead vocalist Gil Moore. The band hasn't released a new album since 1992, but it's still a busy time for the legendary Canadian power trio. Triumph was recently inducted into the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame and, just a few weeks ago, a brand new documentary about the band premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. I spoke with Gil about the new documentary (Triumph: Rock and Roll Machine), the Heavy Metal Hall induction, and the recent Allied Forces 40th Anniversary release. We also spoke about the band's history, music, and songwriting, and the projects coming up that Triumph fans will want to know about.

To keep up on the latest Triumph news, check out their website and follow them on Twitter.

Reminder: You can support independent podcasting by becoming a Michael's Record Collection Patreon subscriber starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the MRC Patreon page. Supporter benefits will escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show. For example, you will know about interviews in advance and some levels can submit questions for the artists.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music or the Goodpods app if you consume this podcast on those platforms. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 32: John Young of Lifesigns - Altitude

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Progressive rockers Lifesigns have released their third studio album with Altitude, and it might be the band's best release yet. It should appeal to most prog rock fans who grew up listening to the masters of the genre, or really any fan of melodic rock music. John Young is the vocalist and keyboard player in the band and he writes the songs. John is a gifted and versatile musician who plays in Bonnie Tyler's band and has worked with Asia and the Scorpions as well. He was kind enough to talk to me about the new album, his interesting songwriting process, his background, his bandmates, and much more. I hope you enjoy hearing about this excellent 2021 album.

To learn more about Lifesigns and their music, visit the band's website.

Become a Patreon supporter starting at only $2 per month (50 cents an episode...or less!) at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like us on Facebook, and check us out on Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 31: Nektar - New Live Release ”Sounds Like Swiss”

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Bassist Derek "Mo" Moore and guitarist Ryche Chlanda of legendary progressive rock giants Nektar took time out to talk to me about their new live release, ...Sounds Like Swiss. The title is a play on their 1973 release ...Sounds Like This and this new three-disc (2-CD/DVD) set captures the band at the height of their powers in 1973. The DVD features a live appearance on Swiss TV while the CDs contain both that live performance and another show from 1973 in Switzerland. The guys told me why they love releasing live albums, their approach to recording, the cool stuff they've got going on during their tour, and a lot more. This release gives Nektar fans another chance to see and hear the late, great Roye Albrighton, who passed in 2016.

Find out more about Nektar at their official website.

Episode 30: Mike Connell of The Connells - Steadman‘s Wake

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Guitarist Mike Connell and his brother David formed a band in 1984. The band that bears their name, The Connells, is set to release its ninth studio album, and the first one in 20 years! I spoke with Mike about this excellent new record, Steadman's Wake, some of the songs on The Connells' most well-known release, "Ring" (1993), and more. It was great talking with Mike and I can't wait until you hear this record.

Find out more about Steadman's Wake and The Connells at their website and purchase the album on LP, CD, or digital.

Episode 29: Nathan James of Inglorious - Heroine

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

England's Inglorious is one of the best hard rock bands in the business today and their 2021 album We Will Ride will be on a lot of "best of 2021" lists at the end of the year. But the band has just released its second album of the calendar year and it has a bit of a twist to it. Heroine is an album of cover songs with Inglorious performing tracks by women who have been an inspiration musically and/or vocally. Lead singer Nathan James joined me to tell me about this incredible album and how the band turned pop songs by the likes of Christina Aguilera, Whitney Houston, Avril Lavigne, and Miley Cyrus into hard rock tracks. The band also covered more obvious choices like Heart's "Barracuda" and Joan Jett's "I Hate Myself for Loving You." Nathan was a blast to talk to and I enjoyed going through the album with him.

You can find out more about Inglorious and order Heroine at their website.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show for as little as $2 per month at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 28: Billy Livesay - Not What I Bargained For

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Former Clarence Clemons guitarist Billy Livesay (pronounced "leh-vuh-see") is my guest for this episode and his band, The Livesays, have a great new album out called Not What I Bargained For. This should appeal to fans of Bruce Springsteen or Americana bands. Billy was kind enough to talk to me about the making of the new album (which just came out), working with Clarence, his influences as both a guitarist and a vocalist, and a whole lot more. I hope you enjoy this interview and I hope Billy will forgive me for referring to his excellent album opener "Two Sides" as "Both Sides" several times during this interview.

For more information on The Livesays or to order the album, check out their website.

For information on Billy Livesay, check out his website.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 27: Chip Z‘Nuff - Never Enuff: Rarities & Demos and More

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Enuff Z'Nuff was a band that got unfairly lumped in with the 80s hair metal bands but that wasn't really their blueprint. The band's music fused power pop with glam, psychedelic rock, and hard rock into a new concoction. The band rose to prominence with its self-titled debut release in the late 80s and the single "Fly High Michelle." I spoke with founder Chip Z'Nuff this week about the band's new rarities and demos box set which features songs from the band's earliest days which collects 40 previously unheard tracks and these don't sound like your garden variety demos or outtakes. Chip has a lot more going on, as well, with a Beatles tribute album set for release in the coming months, a solo album some time next year, and more. We also spoke about his influences, his first record purchase, and other topics. Please enjoy!

For more on Enuff Z'Nuff, visit their website here.

For more information on Donnie Vie, visit his site.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 26: Corky Laing of Mountain - Toledo Sessions, Charlie Watts and More

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Sometimes unexpected things happen when recording podcasts, so when I lost my connection with legendary Mountain drummer Corky Laing in the middle of our conversation, I didn't panic. But I wasn't prepared for him to come back on the Zoom call with the news that Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts had died. Aside from that shocking development, I enjoyed talking with Corky about him being on the road again, his recent Toledo Sessions release and his Pompeii The Secret Sessions release, writing "Mississippi Queen," and a whole lot more. Corky is an energetic and funny guy and it was a blast catching up with him.

To find out more about Corky's music and shows, visit his website here.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 25: Brad Gillis of Night Ranger - ATBPO

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

I'm very pleased to bring you my interview with guitarist Brad Gillis of the legendary 80s rock band Night Ranger. Brad was kind enough to tell me about the making of the excellent new album ATBPO (an acronym for "and the band played on," which is how Night Ranger responded to the COVID-19 pandemic last year). With live venues shut down, the band started writing via Zoom calls and eventually put together a killer record that just came out earlier this month. Brad also told me about his early guitar heroes, playing on the rock and metal famine relief record "Stars" by Hear N' Aid in the 80s, making videos, the gear he used on ATBPO, and more. Check out the new album and I hope you enjoy this interview as much as I did.

Find out more about Night Ranger at their website.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 24: Genesis - Lamb Lies Down on Broadway with Dave Kerzner

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I reached out to prog rock musician Dave Kerzner, who has worked with virtually everyone at some point, to discuss his projects and his favorite Genesis record. He chose the 1974 classic double concept album, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway. Dave was the perfect person to talk about Genesis with (in general) and specifically about The Lamb. He's played that piece live for a special 20th anniversary performance at ProgFest '94 with Kevin Gilbert and Nick D'Virgilio — who went on to release his own Lamb tribute under the name Rewiring Genesis, and he played drums for Genesis on the Calling All Stations album. "Squids" Kerzner is working on his own Lamb tribute album with Francis Dunnery of It Bites (among others), played in Sound of Contact with Phil Collins' son Simon, recently bought a bunch of Tony Banks' keyboard equipment, and has worked with Steve Hackett and famed Genesis producer Nick Davis. There's more, but I'll leave his credentials there for now. Dave and I walked through the album and he dropped in interesting anecdotes along the way. It was a lot of fun. I hope you enjoy revisiting The Lamb with us and perhaps learning more about Kerzner's work.

Learn more about Dave's music here.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 23: Jack Russell's Great White - Led Zeppelin Tribute

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Jack Russell has had a long and storied career in rock, fronting the well-known band Great White. That band has since split and he now leads Jack Russell's Great White, which is working on a new studio album or original songs. But the band recently spent some time in the studio recording an album full of classic songs by the mighty Led Zeppelin and now Jack Russell's Great White is set to release Great Zeppelin II: A Tribute to Led Zeppelin. Jack was kind enough to tell me about the making of the album, his love of Zep, his history in music, and we covered a variety of topics. Big thanks to Jack for his time.

Learn more about Jack Russell's Great White at the band's website.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 22: Playlist Wars and Linkin Park's "Meteora"

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

On this bonus episode I welcome Alex Gomez from the entertaining and unique Playlist Wars podcast. They've got a fantastic show with good guests and an interesting premise and every episode brings something a little different. Gomez was kind enough to tell me how he and Brian Colburn got the show started and then we dive into his favorite record: Meteora by Linkin Park. This second album by the band came out in 2003 and is well outside my comfort zone, but I did enjoy exploring it to find what I liked about it and what other people see in this band. Thanks to Gomez for challenging me to step outside my usual wheelhouse.

To learn more about Playlist Wars, check out their website.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments or want to suggest a topic? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 21: Walter Egan Discusses New Album "Fascination"

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Walter Egan is a criminally underrated American singer-songwriter in what we now call the Americana genre. Many people will remember his 1978 smash hit "Magnet and Steel" with backing vocals by Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, but not enough people know how deep and rich his catalog really is. That catalog got even deeper and richer in 2021 with the release of Fascination, an album that chronicles his romantic pursuit of former rock super-groupie Pamela Des Barres a few years back. Walter was kind enough to take some time to talk about the new album with me, as well as all of the stories that led to the songs on the record. He also discussed working with Buckingham and Nicks and he told me why he never gets tired of being asked about "Magnet and Steel." And lots of other topics were covered as well.

To learn more about Hookers & Blow, visit their Facebook.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 20: Quiet Riot's Alex Grossi on Hookers & Blow's Debut Album

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Guitarist Alex Grossi from Quiet Riot and Guns N'Roses keyboard player Dizzy Reed started a side band in 2003 called Hookers & Blow as a way to have some fun and maybe get some free drinks in Hollywood. Nearly 20 years later, the band is on the cusp of releasing its self-titled debut (on digital, CD, and vinyl). It's a collection of 12 excellent cover songs, mainly from the 1970s. Two of these are Led Zeppelin classics that feature drumming from the late, great Frankie Banali (Quiet Riot). Alex was nice enough to spend some time telling me about Hookers & Blow, the songs chosen (and not chosen) for the album, and more.

To learn more about Hookers & Blow, visit their Facebook.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 19: Clive Nolan Discusses All of the Projects

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Clive Nolan is a busy guy. In addition to being in two well-known progressive rock bands (Arena and Pendragon), he writes musicals and works on a plethora of side and solo projects. I spoke with Clive about his upcoming projects, his favorite records, and much more, including his new solo album of "Viking music" based on Beowulf.

Learn more about Clive's music at his website.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram. Have questions or comments? Hit me up at michaelsrecordcollection@gmail.com.

Episode 18: Jesper Lindgren of Velvet Insane - Rock 'N' Roll Glitter Suit

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

I'm excited to bring you one of my favorite discoveries of 2021. A Swedish band with the delightful name of Velvet Insane is bringing back the glam rock of 1973 with a new release called Rock 'n' Roll Glitter Suit, which comes out on July 16 on Sound Pollution Records. I spoke to founder and guitarist Jesper Lindgren about the making of the record, his influences, his love of glam rock, the tragedy that set his career on its current path, and more. Big thanks to Jesper for his time and I hope you'll enjoy these fun and infectious songs.

Find out more about Velvet Insane on their Facebook page.

You can order Rock 'n' Roll Glitter Suit from the Sound Pollution site.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Episode 17: Dennis DeYoung - 26 East Vol. 2, Styx, and More

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Styx founder and former frontman Dennis DeYoung is a force of nature and so setting up 30 minutes to talk to him about his new album quickly turns into an hour and 15 minutes of talking about life and death, religion, his departure from Styx, and so much more. I enjoyed hearing about his excellent farewell album (we should all sound so good at age 74) and I hope you will too, along with all the other topics he covered.

Find out more about Dennis at his website.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Episode 16: Andy Scott of Sweet Discusses Isolation Boulevard

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Sweet (or "The Sweet" if you're European) have been churning out great glam rock hits with soaring vocal harmonies since the early 1970s. You know the songs: "Fox on the Run," "Love is Like Oxygen," "Ballroom Blitz," etc. The current lineup of the band, led by original guitarist Andy Scott -- the sole surviving classic era member of the band -- has re-recorded and reworked a dozen of the band's most beloved songs on a new release called Isolation Boulevard, a play on the 1974 classic Sweet album Desolation Boulevard. Andy was kind enough to talk to me about the making of the record and a lot of other topics in this exclusive interview. Enjoy!

To find out more about Sweet or to order the album, visit their website.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Episode 15: Wildstreet Discusses New Album "III"

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

New York rockers Wildstreet literally pulled their van off the side of the road to do this interview with Michael's Record Collection about the band's latest release III while on tour in the southeast. All of the band's members weigh in, particularly lead singer/guitarist Eric Jayk, about the making of III, their process, their favorite tracks from the album, and more. They're a fun bunch of guys who just want to rock and put on the best show possible for their fans. Above all, they want to have fun, and that comes through in their music. The new album is available from all the streaming services or directly from the band.

To find out more about Wildstreet and order a physical copy of III, visit their website and follow the band on social media:

Twitter
Facebook
YouTube (awesome videos)
Instagram

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Episode 14: Shane Howard of Goanna on Spirit of Place

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Singer/songwriter Shane Howard traveled to the heart of Australia 40 years ago and it changed his life. He had a spiritual awakening that led him to write "Solid Rock," a hit song (particularly in Australia) from his band Goanna's debut album, Spirit of Place. That song remains one of my favorite all-time song from the 1980s (and ever) and so I was eager to talk to Shane about how it came about and what it was like to be part of the Australian music scene at a very exciting time. Shane was more than gracious with his time and I enjoyed hearing his stories and discussing an album that should have been a monster not just in Australia but everywhere.

You can learn more about Goanna here. The band didn't have a long lifespan but the music is timeless and doesn't sound dated the way a lot of 80s music does.
You can learn about Shane's solo work here. Shane's solo music should appeal to fans of acoustic rock, folk, or Americana.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, providing more value the more you support the show.

Episode 13: Annie Haslam - Renaissance's 50th Anniversary

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

For this episode I'm joined by Annie Haslam of the legendary symphonic progressive rock band Renaissance. The band just released its 50th anniversary live box set with the prog-length title 50th Anniversary Ashes are Burning, an Anthology - Live in Concert with the Renaissance Chamber Orchestra. Annie was kind enough to talk to me about making the live album, her long tenure in the band, her background in music, her artwork (which adorns the stage during the live performance), riding out the pandemic, and more. It was a fun interview and a must-listen for Renaissance fans.

Find out more about Renaissance and order their 50th anniversary live box set here.
Check out Annie's artwork here.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level, getting more value the more you support the show.

Episode 12: Ray Shulman of Gentle Giant - Free Hand

Thu, 27 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I'm joined by Ray Shulman of the legendary progressive rock band Gentle Giant. The band's Free Hand album (1975) has been reissued with 5.1 surround and Dolby Atmos mixes by Steven Wilson. Ray was kind enough to tell me how the band got involved with Wilson, who has remixed several of their releases. He also talked about the making of the album, what it was like being in the band back at the height of its powers, and much more.

You can get more information on Gentle Giant here.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level.

Episode 11: Laura Meade - The Most Dangerous Woman in America

Fri, 21 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Singer/songwriter Laura Meade is best known for her work in the progressive rock band IZZ. She's a fantastic talent and her contributions to that band cannot be understated. However, she's also a great solo artist and has recently followed up 2018's Remedium with a new album titled The Most Dangerous Woman in America. The album centers around the theme of women who have been silenced from speaking their truths and those who history has largely forgotten. I figured out on release day that it was originally based on actress Jean Seberg. Laura was kind enough to spend some time talking about the making of this album, the work that went into it, working with a new vocal coach, what's next for IZZ, and more.

You can order The Most Dangerous Woman in America here.

Follow Laura online at LauraMeadeMusic.com or find LauraMeadeMusic on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level.

Episode 10: Ben Montgomery of Records Revisited

Thu, 13 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we're doing things a little differently. Rather than interviewing a musician about an album they did, I'm talking to a fellow music lover with a podcast that discusses many albums. Ben Montgomery of the Records Revisited podcast joins me and I ask him about his show and then it kind of devolves into two guys discussing what music they like, how they got into music, how they listen, how they approach their music collections, and more. Ben was a great hang and I enjoyed finding a kindred spirit to talk music with, so I hope you'll find it interesting and fun as well.

You can find Records Revisited at just about all the major podcast platforms, and you can follow them on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level.

Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on Apple Music if you consume this podcast on that platform. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram.

Episode 9: Rocket Scientists - 15 Years of Revolution Road

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0400

In this episode I'm joined by 2/3 of the band Rocket Scientists. Musicians Mark McCrite and Don Schiff (unfortunately Erik Norlander wasn't available) were kind enough to discuss the making of their 2006 double album Revolution Road, which is now 15 years old. This is one of my favorite Rocket Scientists records and I enjoyed hearing about how it was made and a little of the history involved. Sadly, it does involve some tragedy, as the band was set to work with talented musician and vocalist Shaun Guerin, who died in 2003. Mark and Don were gracious with their time and shed a lot of light on the story of this excellent album.

Find out more about Rocket Scientists on their website.

I appreciate you listening! Please hit the like button and leave a rating/review on your podcast service of choice. You can read my Michael's Record Collection newsletter for free by signing up here. Follow MRC on Twitter, like MRC on Facebook, and check out my Instagram.

Episode 8: Secret Sphere - Lifeblood

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0500

For this show, I'm joined by Aldo Lonobile and Roberto Ramon Messina from Italian power metal masters, Secret Sphere. Aldo and Roberto talked to me about the band's new studio album (the band's ninth), Lifeblood. This is a fun, melodic, and at times progressive album that I really enjoyed. The guys told me a bit about the record, how it was made, their musical influences, signing with Frontiers Records, the metal scene in Italy, and more.

Band members who were unable to appear on the show were Andy Buratto (bass), Gabriele Ciaccia (keyboards), and Marco Lazzarini (drums).

Learn more about Secret Sphere on their Facebook page or follow them on Instagram.

I have to warn listeners that the sound quality is a little rough in a few spots, as Roberto's audio was feeding back, and that happened mainly a few times when Aldo was talking. I cleaned it up as best I could in editing but there are still some parts that are noisier than I'd like. Still, Aldo and Roberto provided a lot of interesting stories and good information so I wanted to publish it even if the audio isn't up to the quality standards I'd like.

Episode 7: Dave Cousins - The Strawbs' / "Settlement"

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Dave Cousins is the leader of the legendary band The Strawbs, who have been recording albums since the late 1960s. He's also, as it turns out, a delightful fellow with which to have a conversation. Dave joined me to discuss his band's latest release, "Settlement." The album was recorded remotely by the band during the pandemic lockdown and Dave talked about how he hasn't been able to go back to his own home due to his basement flooding, having to buy gear to record the album at home, and various lyrical and musical stories behind the songs.

Find out more about The Strawbs here.

Episode 6: Eternal Return - Once Only

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 09:16:00 -0500

In this episode of MRC, I jump into a musical genre a bit outside my usual comfort zone. Eternal Return is an interesting new post-rock/ambient/experimental project that entered my radar because of the involvement of Porcupine Tree bassist Colin Edwin. The five musicians in Eternal Return all started the project while living in different countries and got together in Germany to record the album before the pandemic.

The core of the group is the ambient duo Dogon (Paul Godwin and Miguel Noya), along with Edwin, Estonian guitarist Robert Jürjendal, and drummer Miguel Toro. I spoke with Paul, Robert, and Miguel Noya about the making of this record, its theme of nomadism, and their process.

You can check them out on Spotify or other streaming services, and visit their Bandcamp site here.

Episode 5: Billy Sherwood - Yes/Arc of Life

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 18:39:00 -0500

In Episode 5, musician/producer Billy Sherwood, probably best known for his work with progressive rock giants Yes, joined me to discuss his newest project, Arc of Life. Recorded before the pandemic, Arc of Life began with some simple writing sessions with Jon Davison while Yes was on tour and grew from there. Billy talks about the making of the record, being in Yes, serving as a good steward of Chris Squire's legacy in that band, and many other topics.

Keep up with Arc of Life on their Facebook page.

Find out more about Billy on his Facebook page and his page on the YesWorld site.

Episode 4: Lee Abraham - Harmony/Synchronicity

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 21:32:00 -0500

Welcome back to Michael's Record Collection! For Episode 4 I spoke to British musician Lee Abraham about the making of his eighth studio album, Harmony/Synchronicity. The album was put together while he was in lockdown for the pandemic. Lee is a great guitarist and bass player and has been a member of the storied British prog band Galahad. Generous with his time, as ever, Lee spoke about his recent AOR influences, writing and recording the album, the equipment he used, and more. He also broke some news here about his forthcoming ninth album.

Find out more about Lee on his website.

Order Lee's music here: progrock.co.uk - the home of Progressive Rock

Episode 3: Robert Berry on 3.2 and Keith Emerson

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 19:07:00 -0500

Robert Berry is a talented guy and he's worked with a lot of other talented musicians. His latest release is "Third Impression" under the moniker 3.2. The 3.2 project emerged out of the band 3 from the late 1980s when Berry connected with Keith Emerson and Carl Palmer of ELP to record and release "To the Power of Three." The project was shelved for years until he convinced Emerson the time was right for a follow-up. Unfortunately, before all the recording had been completed, Emerson took his own life.

In this interview, Berry talks in depth about working with Keith, why and how the second 3.2 release (and third of the trio including 3) came about, and working with Palmer. He even talks a bit about meeting and playing with Greg Kihn.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level.

Enjoy Episode 3!

Episode 2: Randy George of The Neal Morse Band

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:14:00 -0500

Randy George is a terrific multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. He may be best-known as the bassist in progressive rock supergroup The Neal Morse Band, but he's done a lot of other things. I spoke to Randy about he and his wife Pamela's Sweet Invention project, playing live during the pandemic, his christian prog rock band Ajalon (and whether we'll see another album from that band), meeting and recording with Neal Morse, the early sessions for the forthcoming fourth Neal Morse Band album, and a lot more.

Check out Sweet Invention and Randy's solo works on Spotify and Neal Morse's Waterfall streaming app. You can also listen to select Neal Morse solo (with Randy on bass) and Neal Morse Band music on public streaming or all of it on the Waterfall app with a paid subscription. You can watch my interview with Randy on YouTube or go there to check out Randy's episode of Neal's chat show Musicians Having Coffee & Talking About Stuff.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level.

Episode 1: Little Atlas - Wanderlust

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 22:42:00 -0500

In 2005, the Miami-based progressive rock quartet Little Atlas was one of South Florida's best bands and recorded what I believe to be their best album in a catalog full of great music. I interviewed lead vocalist and keyboard player Steve Katsikas and we were joined in mid-discussion by bassist Rik Bigai. The two musicians are great guys and talked me through the making of the 2005 album Wanderlust.

I appreciate you listening! You can become a patron of the show at the new MRC Patreon page, with supporter benefits that escalate at each level.