It says a lot for a band to branch out and try a different market, but for BYSTANDER, they are coming all the way to Texas for their first show back since the lock down in Oregon.

BYSTANDER is an up and coming American heavy metal outfit based out of Portland, Oregon. Blending more technical styles of death metal riffs with groove inspired deathcore breakdowns, BYSTANDER brings forth a crushing sound reminiscent of the golden era of heavy metalcore & “djent,” appealing to fans of Whitechapel, Meshuggah, Thy Art Is Murder, Volumes, Born Of Osiris, After the Burial & more.

Bystander came out to Texas in mid March to get a feel for the Texas music scene to see if this was the place to be when they got back to playing gigs.  Taylor gives his run down of their time here.  They visited Rainy St, checked out some comedy clubs and of course, had to get some Texas BBQ.  

The guys take a dive into the lyrics from the latest Ep "Product of Misinformation" that dropped earlier this year and touched a little on how the band faired during their COIVD lockdown.  Now that shows are returning to a stage near you, they are excited to get back out and mix it up with what is hopefully a new fan base here in Austin, Texas.

Todays featured song is "Isolation Campaign" of their latest album "Product of Misinformation"  Link below to their Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4uYbgRkkg520ViIcz0KXdK

Have You Heard - BYSTANDER

This episode features our very own Taylor Anderson and his band mate Andy McErlean of Pala (ATX).  This one is close to the chest as Pala and the podcast have been close since they performed down in San Antonio for the podcasts first out of town showcase and the bands first time down there as well. 

Pala was founded in late 2016 by front man Andy McErlean (vocals/guitar). He recorded his initial demos with Chad Rockwell at Westfall recording Studio in Austin, Texas. For their debut EP, "The Seven Earths", McErlean and Taylor Anderson teamed up to hone in the sound of Pala. The EP was produced at Anderson's production studio, Titan Audio, located in Austin, Texas.

Pala has been a steady presence in the local Austin scene and have continued to progress and grow as a band.  With the news of them recently signing to Perennial Talent Agency to break into markets, the guys explain where they are taking the band and what's to come.

Have You Heard - Pala

Chuck Loesch has been part of the metal scene in Austin since the early 90s, started NO CONTROL Radio on a sister radio station in 2005. He has since given a voice and a home to metal within the community and is partly the reason or why we began this podcast in 2014.  His Twitter handle is @BeardedApe, he's been smooth cheeked for a while but he's still sexy so don't worry. 

Ryan and Chuck just shoot the shit and play catch up.  Chuck tells stories about 70 Tons of Metal cruises, his recent video shoot for a music video with "In The Trench" and he also gives a peek behind the curtain of No Control Radio.  For the metal dads (and moms), the guys share metal stories about their kids.  Catch Chuck every Saturday night for No Control Radio on 93.7fm KLBJ or 93.7fm HD2 24/7.  Also, if you have a rad story about your kid at a metal show, shoot us an email at austintxmetal@gmail.com and we might share it on a future episode. 

https://www.atxmetalpodcast.com/
https://www.klbjfm.com/show/no-control/
Intro music "Common Flow" by Arborneena
Featured music "Haunted" by In The Trench

Chuck Loesch crashes the Podcast!

I was fortunate enough to catch up with Tony (guitar) and Ricky (vocals) of HateWaker when they opened up for Attila back in Oct 2022.  We chat about what's to come from HateWaker, their South By So What experience and their replay of their set that night.

They are planning their first tour for 2023 and I see a chance to get "Rep Your City Tour" off the ground.  Oh and don't forget to buy everything local.  Check out the links below for more.

Featured song: "Icarus" by HateWaker
Outro song: "Common Flow" by Arborenna

HateWaker Website
ATXMP YouTube
Come and Take It Productions
Come and Take It Live
Titan Audio Productions

Come and Cast It with HateWaker

This is one of those episodes that I was excited to be able to do.  My buddy Matt Fourman (Deadmouth, Formerly Morningside/Taking On Poseidon) is chasing his music career dreams by trying out to be the new vocalist of Japanese heavy weights, Crystal Lake. 

Matt has been on the podcasts radar pretty much since day one.  From his days in Taking on Poseidon to current project, Deadmouth, he continues to pursue his passion and when he saw there were tryouts for Crystal Lake, he knew he had to give it his all.  I talk with Matt about his childhood and growing up around his cool Uncle to why Oh, Sleeper is an important band to him in his teenage years.

Matt tells me where he's at in life and where he wants to be.  If you'd like to support him in his journey, click the link below.  The podcast will not get any money donated.  It is all for Matt.

Matt Fourman Donation Link - https://www.gofundme.com/f/auditioning-in-tokyo

Come and Take It Productions
Come and Take It Live

Journey to Japan with Matt Fourman

Stoneside is an independent music project based out of rural Texas, focused on bringing into this world the stories of those who have passed from it. The music is as haunting, emotional, raw and beautiful as the stories that it gives voice to; combining elements of a range of genres including alternative rock, prog-metal, ambient and electronic, the genres and song structures are fluid and ever-changing; they are merely a tool of the messenger.

Episode info
Stoneside Website: https://www.stonesidemusic.com/
GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/third-record-funding-and-guest-appearance?utm_source=widget&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured tracks: "Terlingua", "Hell" and "Pale Dawn" off Stoneside album's "The Water" and "The Desert"
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/

Digital Footprints with Stoneside

The Bottomless is a progressive experimental band that defies genre! The name " the Bottomless" is in reference to the infinite potential of music and drive to want to change! Members include Aj Johnson on vocals and guitar, Sheridan Kruitz on Vocals, Tyler Watts on guitar and Tj Hargrove on drums.

This was one of my first in person interviews this year and I really do miss being in the room with the people I interview.  There is just so much more energy and the conversation just flows even though we are total strangers.  Their home is "THE" definition of an Austin musician's home.  Gear everywhere.  Drums set up in the living room.  It just had that vibe.  I am grateful to them for allowing me to come to their home, get to know them and help share their story and music.  The Bottomless stays busy with shows so checks the links below and catch them live some time soon.

Episode Info
Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/thebottomlessaj
FB: https://www.facebook.com/thebottomlessband
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thebottomlessband/
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured tracks: "Hawaiian"  by The Bottomless   
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/

Hot tea and Beer with The Bottomless

Sozora is a band with a diverse and evocative sound.  the group's music combines many influences, including post-punk, hardcode, and more.

I sat down with Trevor, Jacob, Aaron and Jake along with Jet who helped produce the interview out at DUP Recording Studio in Burnet, Tx.  I have known these guys for a really long time, seen them play at various venues around Austin and to me, they are one of THE definitions of local Texas metal.  Join us for an hour or so convo about where they started, how many different connections we have through the local scene and a few more tasty topics.

Message from the band:
Our most recent album "Pillars" allows a hard-hitting wall of sound to collide with lush and mesmerizing melodies. Clean vocals and blood curdling screams alternate seamlessly, creating a huge dynamic range for a true sonic roller coaster.  From lush, reverb-laden guitar parts to down-tuned heavy riffs and even some tasteful dissonance, anything goes.

Episode Info:
Bandcamp: https://sozora.bandcamp.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/sozoraband
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sozoramusic/
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Pillars" by Sozora of their latest album "Pillars"
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited/

Just press the Spacebar when you're done with Sozora

The A&R Foundation was founded in 2022 as a non-profit organization, providing services to independent musicians in Austin, TX. Since then, our mission has been to turn creative passions into sustainable businesses by providing independent musicians access to tools, resources, and education on entrepreneurship and music business.

The A&R Foundation is governed by a board of directors who have a wide range of experience in music business, public relations, finance, nonprofit management, fundraising, human resources, and entrepreneurship. The day to day operations of The A&R Foundation are carried out by the organization’s executive leadership, who have a combined 50 years of experience in working with performing artists at all levels of the industry.

Episode Info:
Website: https://theanrfoundation.org/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/theanrfoundation/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/anrfoundation/
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Fall/Fade" by Burning Years 
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited
The Fieldhouse at The Crossover: https://www.thefieldhousetexas.com/

Say Hello to The A&R Foundation: A conversation with James, Rob and Austin

I wanted to mix it up a little bit so instead of interviewing one band, I sat down with three individuals from three various projects to talk about all things guitar.  In this episode I sat down with a long time friend Brien Allen (Bridges Ablaze / Arborenna / Altermind), Dylan Kortz (Living Hollow / Hopefool) and Jon Tadon (Lift the Curse / The Browning). 

In my years of doing this podcast, of the many things I have learned is that the musicians are nerds, haha.  The depth of knowledge that they have about their gear, instruments and software they use to make the sweet, sweet sounds for our listening pleasurer amazes me.  So I decided to get some of the best ones I know in a room together to have a conversation about the thing they love the most.

I wanted to dig a little bit into each other their backgrounds and get to know where all this started and what fueled their passions.  Over the course of the interview we find out origin stories, first instruments and influences.  I ask who will todays generations look up to as they did to the great 80's and 90's metal bands. Of course we talked about their influences and what sounds got them into their sound to include what there tuning is and how many strings is too much.

We also talk about scale length because inches matter and the thickness of your pick.

Episode Info:
Bridges Ablaze: https://bridgesablazeband.com/
Living Hollow: https://linktr.ee/livinghollow
Lift The Curse: https://www.liftthecurse.net/
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured tracks: "Forever Fallen" by Bridges Ablaze; "The Earth Beneath me" by Living Hollow; "Kingsbury" by Lift The Curse
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited
The Fieldhouse at The Crossover: https://www.thefieldhousetexas.com/

It's SHREDtember with Brien Allen, Dylan Kortz and Jon Yadon Jr

Release The Captive have been around the Austin, TX metal scene for a few years now.  I spoke with the band previously back in Dec of 2021 (link below if you want to give that a listen first).  Now that the band has a new drummer and a new single, "Defiance", we got together and caught up with the guys to see what's been going on in the RTC camp.

We get into how their new single "Defiance" came to life, what RTC is doing to stay on top of today's socials to reach their fans, how to be more engaging and how to build their brand to set them apart.  And, with the new addition of Danny to the team, he tells his story about how he made it from Mexico to Berkley and all over the United States and finally here to Austin, TX.  We round out the interview talking about the concept of their upcoming album, what shows they are playing the rest of the year and what's up with Taylor Swift.

Episode Info:
Spotify episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4pNJZdiT7xaZkzDTFLrfFL?si=-d_J8VyHQbO_O_Uzce03wQ
Bandcamp: https://releasethecaptive.bandcamp.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/releasethecaptiveband
IG: https://www.instagram.com/releasethecaptiveband/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoW8GJ7JY8J-NviE9K0vnaQ
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Defiance" by Release The Captive
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited
The Fieldhouse at The Crossover: https://www.thefieldhousetexas.com/

Four dudes and some nood's with Release The Captive

I love when "new to me" bands reach out asking to check out their music out.  It's one of the cool aspects of running a metal podcast.  Vox Nostra dropped me a DM on Instagram about a month prior from the date of this release asking to check out their debut single "Façade".  Upon the pressing of the play button, the riff begins and I got drawn into blast beats and melodic tapping followed by some pretty brutal vocal arrangements.  After hearing the entire track, I hit them back asking them to save the Sunday because I had a cancellation.  Fortunately they were getting together for practice so it really worked out for everyone so Nathan Buckhoff (vocals) and Jay Ramirez (bass/band dad) joined me for an interview.

Vox Nostra is a brand new band, not to just me but, to everyone.  Formed back in May 2022, this 4-piece techdeath/melodic outfit of Houston, TX, Vox Nostra is trying to make their way in the local metal scene.  We started off by getting to know the members, what they do.  Nathan explains how he started is music career with a leap pad learning classical music to using his GI Bill to go to school for music.   Shout out to the Veteran's out there in and out of the music scene.  Semper Fi!

We chat about their plans as a band for the for foreseeable future, to include their debut show alongside Upon A Burning Body which is going down Dec 17th at Scout Bar in Houston, TX.  To know more about them as humans, Nathan is a commercial real estate agent and Jay is the musical director at The School of Rock in Houston, TX.  Jay lets us in on his teachings and instructing kids to adults and how to be successful in that space.

Jay's final comments don't age well about the Astro's.

Message from the band : “Vox Nostra is on mission to push our boundaries as musicians. We aspire to deliver the catchiest riffs, most punishing drum beats, thunderous bass, and otherworldly vocals that we can produce. Come along on this journey with us cause it’s only gonna get better from here.”

Episode Info:
Bandcamp: https://voxnostra.bandcamp.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/voxnostraofficial
IG: https://www.instagram.com/voxnostratx/
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Facade" by Vox Nostra
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

From Beethoven to Breakdowns with Vox Nostra

ESP was founded in 2015 by Timothy Moss. The band’s concept and music was inspired by Timothy’s  travels in the Middle East and events in the US.  The band’s first release, “Call To Arms” was produced by Wyn Davis at Total Access Recording Studios in Redondo Beach, CA . The release on Starwest Entertainment Records was well received and garnered industry interest. 

After the pandemic it was decided to reconfigure the band with top industry talent for the next release.  With help from Wyn Davis and Steve Ornest, Tim “Ripper” Owens (vocals formerly with Judas Priest), Vinny Appice (drums formerly with  Axis, Dio, and Black Sabbath) and Jo Jo Brown (guitars)  joined Timothy in California to record “Digital Soldiers”.  The songs written by Timothy Moss and Jo Jo Brown were greatly enhanced  with the addition of Ripper and Vinny.  Their professionalism helped take the band to the new level the group was seeking.

After the release of  “Digital Soldiers”  a new touring line up was needed.  Sean Salinas, a multi-product endorsed artist (Promark Drumsticks, Evans Drumheads, and Diril Cymbals) and former drummer for two productions with Cirque du Soleil (KA and Zumanity) joined the group.  The combination of Sean’s incredible drumming  with Timothy’s bass playing provided the solid foundation.  Jo Jo Brown’s unique signature playing and writing style was a catalyst and perfect fit for the band.  Kris Keyes, formerly with Gargantua Soul and Dive Bomber, joined as lead singer.  Kris has appeared with his band on the Rage Against the Machine tour and performed at Woodstock 1999 .   At different times these artists have appeared on shows with Korn, Megadeath, and Stone Temple Pilots, to name a few.

Episode Info:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/EngineeredSocietyRocks/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/engineered_society_project
Website: https://engineeredsocietyproject.com/
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Fade Away" by Engineered Society Project
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

Interview with Engineered Society Project

Profiler is a Nu-Metal reawakening from the mind of vocalist and guitarist Mike Evans. This band is inspired by those who have incited change in genres, arts, and theories. It's a weight of legacy that Profiler is comfortable shouldering, backed by SharpTone Records, its home since 2020. After starting as a solo project in Bristol, UK, Mike stepped out from the studio and onto the stage, enlisting bassist/vocalist Joe Johnson and drummer Oscar Hocking. In early 2023, Oscar departed to be replaced by Brad Ratcliffe, cementing the line-up that would forge 2024's debut album, A Digital Nowhere.

Profiler's nu-metal-grunge-alt-rock, call it what you want, is an abrasive distorted soundscape that reverently glances back to those genres' heydays. Profiler is for anyone who misses or missed the contagious nineties Seattle grunge movement or the explosion of nu-metal that dominated the 00s and the genre-bending bands they made a path for.

Episode Info:
Website: https://sharptonerecords.co/collections/profiler
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profilerband
IG: https://www.instagram.com/profilerband/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRkvOHvNcLNjI4khMuje7NQ
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "All in Forever" by Profiler
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors:
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Bumperactive: https://www.bumperactive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

GET UP! with Mike Evans of Profiler

The Breakdown
In this conversation, Dalton Kennerly from the band LEVELS discusses various aspects of the band's journey and music career. He talks about treating the band as a business, the band's influences and musical style, their collaboration with Landon Tewers (The Plot in You), and the sound shift in their new singles. Dalton also shares insights into signing with SharpTone Records, negotiating the record deal, and the importance of having a product. He discusses the band's touring strategy, the role of data in tour planning, and the importance of giving your best performance. Dalton also touches on personal well-being, finding connections between different areas of life, and future plans for the band.

Quick Riffs
Treating the band as a business is crucial for success.
Collaborating with other artists can lead to new and exciting musical directions.
Data analysis is essential for effective tour planning.
Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is important for a successful music career.

Episode Info
Bandcamp: https://levelsar.bandcamp.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/levels.metal/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/levels.band/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@levelsband
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track:  "Pulse" by Levels
ATXMP Website: https://www.atxmp.com/

Sponsors / Affiliates 
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

Plumbers and Drummers with Dalton Kennerly of Levels

The Breakdown

In this interview, I speak with Colin and Ashleigh of Tulip, a symphonic groove metal band from Dallas. We discuss the band's unique sound and influences, as well as their journey forming the band. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing music and relationships, finding time for music amidst family duties, and the music scene in the Dallas area. We also talk about the upcoming tour in Europe and collaborations with local bands. Finally, we discuss the language barriers they may encounter during their trip overseas.

Quick Riffs

Tulip is a symphonic groove metal band with a unique sound that combines elements of opera and European style metal.
Balancing music and relationships can be challenging, but Colin and Ashleigh have found a way to make it work as a power couple.
The band is excited about their upcoming tour in Europe and their collaborations with local bands.

Band/Episode Info:

Website: WE ARE TULIP | High Strangeness 
FB: Facebook /wearetulipofficial
IG: TULIP (@wearetulip) • Instagram photos and videos
TikTok: TULIP (@wearetulip) | TikTok
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Ghost of Kiev" by Tulip
ATXMP Website: ATX Metal Podcast (transistor.fm)

Sponsors / Affiliates 
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

It's time to tour with Tulip!

The Breakdown

In this episode of the ATX Metal Podcast, Ryan interviews Kevin Hellestad from the Chord Progression Podcast. They discuss the importance of supporting the local music scene and how to discover new bands. Kevin shares the origin story of his podcast and his passion for promoting local artists. They also talk about the challenges of being a podcaster and the impact of honesty in music reviews. Overall, the conversation highlights the value of supporting local musicians and the joy of discovering new music. The conversation covers topics such as supporting local music, the role of social media in the music industry, one-stop recording studios, ways to support local podcasters, podcast hosting and growth, expanding the podcast and interviewing big names, showcasing local talent, dream interviews, personal connections and cross-promotion, and final thoughts on supporting local music.

Quick Riffs

Supporting the local music scene is crucial for the growth and success of local artists and is a collective effort that benefits musicians, podcasters, and the entire music industry.

Discovering new bands and supporting them can lead to exciting experiences and connections.

Social media metrics, such as likes, follows, and downloads, are becoming increasingly important for bands, venues, and promoters, and can impact opportunities for musicians.

Showcasing local talent through podcasts and events can provide exposure and support for up-and-coming musicians.

Building personal connections and cross-promoting with other podcasters and musicians can help create a supportive community and expand reach.

Episode Info:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chordprogressionpodcast
FB: https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast
IG: https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/
X: https://twitter.com/cppodofficial
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Someone like me" by These Fading Visions
ATXMP Website: https://atxmp.transistor.fm/

Sponsors / Affiliates 

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

Talking local music with Kevin Hellestad of The Chord Progression Podcast

The Breakdown

In this episode of the ATX Metal Podcast, Ryan interviews the band members Daniel and Stephen of Thumbscrew and delves into their journey as a metal band. The conversation covers their early years, the evolution of their sound, the transition to a new vocalist, recording and promotion challenges, touring experiences, and memorable moments on the road. The band members share their passion for music and the strong bond they formed as a group. Overall, the episode highlights the dedication and resilience required to pursue a career in the music industry. The guys discuss their experiences touring and traveling, the reunion and farewell shows, the dissolution of the band, the last hurrah and closure, the future of Thumbscrew, and the importance of the reunion. They express gratitude towards their friends, family, and fans.

Quick Riffs

Touring and traveling with friends can lead to unforgettable experiences and lifelong friendships.
The dissolution of a band can happen naturally as members pursue different paths in life.
The last hurrah can be a chance to give fans a final show and create lasting memories.
Reunions can be important for reconnecting with friends and reliving past experiences.

Episode Info:

Bandcamp: https://thumbscrewtx.bandcamp.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/thumbscrewtx/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqrahgqAZFU
Intro track: "Common Flow" by Arborenna
Featured track: "Maliscent" by Thumbscrew
ATXMP Website: https://atxmp.transistor.fm/

Sponsors / Affiliates:

Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

Blood on the Snare: 20 years of Chaos with Thumbscrew

The Breakdown

In this episode of the ATX Metal Podcast, Ryan sits down with the band DSGNS to discuss their new record and their journey in creating it. They talk about the process of recording the album live and the challenges they faced. The band members also discuss their approach to playing chaotic music and their collaborative songwriting process. They reflect on the history of the band and the impact of COVID-19 on their music. The episode concludes with a discussion on the upcoming album release and their plans for the future. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of the car test in evaluating music, recording songs that feel good to play, childhood memories of broken CDs, the influence of different music genres, the challenges of the local metal scene, and the possibility of reviving it. The band also discusses their favorite songs to play from their new record and the process of choosing the track order. They express the need for a home base venue and the clickiness of the metal scene. The conversation concludes with shoutouts to local bands and a final farewell.

Quick Riffs

-DSGNS new record was recorded live, without the use of a click track, to capture the energy and spontaneity of their music.
-The band takes a collaborative approach to songwriting, with each member contributing to the process.
-The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges for the band, but also provided them with the opportunity to fine-tune their music and artwork.
-Releasing music in singles allows the band to focus on each song individually and create unique artwork for each release.
-DSGNS is excited to release their new record and has plans to continue writing and recording new music in the future. 
-The in car test is an important tool for evaluating music and ensuring that mixes sound good in different listening environments.
-Recording songs that feel good to play and evoke a positive response from the band members is crucial for capturing the right energy in the studio.
-Early exposure to different genres of music can shape one's musical preferences and influence their musical journey.
-The local metal scene can benefit from a home base venue that supports and promotes local bands, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
-The challenges of getting involved in the music scene and the clickiness of certain circles can make it difficult for bands to connect and collaborate with others.
-Choosing the track order for a record involves considering the flow of the songs, the emotions they evoke, and the overall story they tell.

Episode Info
Bandcamp: https://dsgns.bandcamp.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/dsgnsband
IG: https://www.instagram.com/dsgns/
Website: http://www.dsgnsmusic.com/
Intro track: "Numb" by Bridges Ablaze
Featured track: "Second Death" by DSGNS
ATXMP Website: https://atxmp.transistor.fm/

Sponsors / Affiliates 
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

This is Art: DSGNS return with a new Record

The Breakdown
In this conversation, I chat with members Dan and Tanner of the band Waterfront to discuss their background, education, and signing with Affiant Records. We talk about their musical influences and how they came together as a band. They also share their experiences in high school and university, particularly in relation to their music education. The guys highlight the benefits of working with Affiant Records and the opportunities it has provided for their music career. We also discuss their influences from the metal and rock scene, the evolution of their sound, and the balance between catchy melodies and heavier elements in their music. They also talk about their collaborative songwriting process and how they navigate tensions and creative differences within the band.  We talk about the challenge of touring, hockey of course (go Carolina Hurricanes), what the Calgary Stampede is and the possibility of Waterfront playing at a Calgary Flames game. There is also a bet laid upon the feet of the Ryan's.

Quick Riffs
-The band aims to strike a balance between catchy melodies and heavier elements in their music, incorporating both pop sensibilities and raw, heavy sounds.
-Waterfront has a collaborative songwriting process, with each member contributing their ideas and feedback to create the best possible songs.
-The band navigates tensions and creative differences by holding each other accountable and prioritizing the quality of their music.
-Touring can be challenging for Canadian bands due to the logistical and financial considerations, such as obtaining work visas and covering expenses.
-Waterfront aspires to play at a Calgary Flames game.
-Devin has a secret talent for making unique sounds with his throat.

Episode Info
Website: https://waterfrontofficial.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPLUW_woeKR81y2ORqJIcXg
IG: https://www.instagram.com/waterfrontofficial/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@waterfrontofficial
Intro track: "Numb" by Bridges Ablaze
Featured track: "I Wanna Run" ft. Gutter King by Waterfront
ATXMP Website: ATX Metal Podcast (transistor.fm)

Sponsors / Affiliates 
Come and Take It Productions: https://www.comeandtakeitproductions.com/
Come and Take It Live: https://www.comeandtakeitlive.com/
Titan Audio Productions: https://titanaudioproductions.com/
Texas Metal United: https://www.facebook.com/TexasMetalUnited

All things Canadian: An interview with Waterfront

On Episode 21, Dahk-Tore Smoldyface and Tsar-Djent Peckerhead of Sausage Fingers drop in to tell us about their origins, home planets, how they came to Earth, and why they resorted to making music. They picked these tracks from the vast selection of human-made music, as well as two of their own from their EP Urth Mewzik Volume I: 

Whitechapel - This Is Exile 
Psychostick - So. Heavy. 
Devin Townsend Project - March of the Poozers 
Sausage Fingers - Biomechanical Percussive Mutation 
Sausage Fingers - Punched In The Face With A Dick

Episode 21 (Sausage Fingers)

On Episode 22 we sit down with Sammy and Teddy of Inertia and talk about dicks. We also talk about how the band started, their musical process, and dicks. 

The Devil Wears Prada - Danger Wildman 
Punk Goes Disney - I'll Make a Man Out of You 
Dimmu Borgir - Sorgens Kammer Del II 
Inertia - Forbidden Door

Episode 22 (Inertia)

This episode is all over the place and it's great. AGodUnknown dropped in to talk with us about their local scene in Fredricksburg, their new EP Abstract Pragmatics, Paris and Limp Bizkit, and a Fredricksburg resident named Megan. 

Failure in Vanity - My Bloody Valentine 
Polyphia - Aviator 
After the Burial - Lost in the Static 
Memories in Broken Glass - Barriers 
AGodUnknown - Ocean of Atrophy

Episode 33 (AGodUnknown)

We hang a sweet hang with Josh and Tony of Vilamoura, as well as their manager, Dom.  We got high and talked about getting high, colorblindness, respeck, and hair color (riveting!).

Vitalism - Gradus
Sworn In - Mindless
Backwordz - Statism
Vilamoura - We All Die

Episode 42 (Vilamoura)

Way back in October 2016, we sat down with Jeff and Ethan of Cerebral Desecration and talked about the band, how they keep one another awake carpooling from San Marcos, and we talk about dicks. We always talk about dicks.

Meshuggah - MostroCity
ADE - Sowing Salt
TURMA - Kraken
Hopeless - Dawn of the Black Sun
Cerebral Desecration - Conseption (of the Beast)

Episode 47 (Cerebral Desecration)

We sat down with Chernobyl the Secret back in December and talked about the band, jews, upcoming shows, and told bad jokes.

Thy Art is Murder - Absolute Genocide
Wage War - The River
Chronologist - Guacaracha (feat. Johnuel Hasney of Toothgrinder)
Erra - The Hypnotist
Veil of Maya - Leeloo
Bury the Rod - Risen
Chernobyl the Secret - Burning Bridges

Episode 48 (Chernobyl the Secret)

The guys in Invoker/Impale the Betrayer/Filth dropped in when they were in town recording their new EP with Greg Hinck at Chop Harder Studios. We spend quite a while fellating Greg (he wasn't present) and stumbling through a clumsy interview. In the second half we resort to savagery and unreasonable levels of homosexuality. Ryan dies. The music break is rad:

deatheater - filth
wvrm - swarm sound
ad - compton w/ eazy-e
filth - covet

Episode 50 (Invoker....Impale the Betrayer....Filth)

In a record-breaking episode for fewest mentions of dicks, we sat down with Andy and Trent of Gnarwolf and talked about their music, their new EP, and some adventures in west Texas.

The Continual - The Book I Write
The Arbitrary - Glacial Tranquility
In Cycles and Circle - Vibrance
Every Time I Die - Map Change
Michael Jackson - Beat It

Episode 51 (Gnarwolf)

We sat down and had chat with the boys in Anton's key, discussed "fiddle" vs. "violin," took some phone calls, told stories and did some other things.

Killswitch Engage - Vide Infra
Wanderers - Suffer With Me
Vitalism - Yami Obi
Slice the Cake - The Lantern
Anton's Key - Sekihotai
David Maxim Micic - Where in Now?
Texas Gigantism - Waifu Kaiju
Native Construct - Come Hell or High Water
Sylosis - It Dwells Within
Bleed the Sky - Minion
Born of Osiris - Machine

Episode 67 Live w/ Anton's Key

As we continue on our journey to talk to a large amount of band members and people involved with our music scene, Ryan called Brandon, who is all the way in Hereford Texas and Dylan to talk about their day to day.

Brandon goes into some detail about his current situation, which with the virus becoming a pandemic, was really bad timing for him in his efforts to move down to Austin Texas.  

The guys chat about 5G tower conspiracy causing the pandemic (yeah, its a thing),  They talk about their writing process and the new single "Isolation" which you hear small clips of inside this episode.  

"Isolation" is the latest single from Doubting Thieves and can be found on all major platforms.

Locked In The Closet - Ep 3 With Dylan And Brandon Of Doubting Thieves

Saul Castillo is a good buddy that wears many hats.  Vocalist, Guitarist, Videographer and more.  Ryan calls to check in.  Saul works in the service industry so he was directly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.  He has had to stay home due to his work place reducing staff.  

Saul goes into detail about how he has been working with Eric Meyer of the Noiz Faktory here in Georgetown, TX.  Since the social distancing makes going to live shows hard to do, they are having bands perform in the studio so they can film it and share it with the fans. You can check out those videos on their YouTube Channels.  

Ryan goes on a rant about supporting local music which means, when things go back to normal one day, don't forget about those that helped others during these times.

Locked In The Closet - Ep 6 With Saul Castillo Of Headquaters Film Productions

Originating in Nov 2014, ATX Metal Podcast was started between two friends (Chris and Ryan) in the hopes of bringing the local metal scene the attention that it deserves.  With Austin, TX being named "The Live Music Capital Of The World" you can only imagine the melting pot of music that comes from this great city.  Tune in and turn it up!!!

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