A-Sides

One of the earliest friends of the podcast, John Massaglia, returns to A-SIDES for his 6th appearance on Episode 224. John discusses the newest release called Wombat Alchemy from his band The Truth Council, his son performing lead vocals on a new song, making plans for 2026, and even several of his bucket list vacation destinations. 

If you are near Central Illinois, come enjoy The Truth Council's live performance at Oz'z Bar in Creve Coeur, IL on March 28th. Wombat Alchemy will be for sale! You can also discover the band's music on Apple Music and Spotify.

Thanks for listening to this latest episode of A-SIDES with John Massaglia!

One my favorite venues to attend shows has been at the Castle Theatre in Central Illinois. From seeing shows with friends and family, to even meeting Jimmy Eat World on the curb outside the venue, the list of memories made is long. Jason Williams has been the longtime talent buyer at the Castle, helping to bring artists to Central Illinois like Jason Isbell, The Struts, Dorothy, and recent rock bands like The Hu and Mammoth.

Thanks to Jason for taking time to share stories on Episode 223 of A-SIDES!

If you're in Central Illinois, keep up with the Castle Theatre's vast array of shows on their website.

2025 saw not only the release of Sons of Silver's first full-length album, Runaway Emotions, but they even book-ended the year with a live EP titled 7 Cities 7 Songs. While the band is currently completing more music, Brina Kabler took time away to record this latest episode of A-SIDES. After starting with a full tour of the band's rehearsal space and headquarters, she shared how she made a huge leap of faith to follow music as a career to become a studio engineer. This has served her well as she shapes the band's sound in the studio and continues to try new recording techniques. Brina has also shaped the visual aspect of the band with a keen eye for visual arts.

Huge thanks to Brina for joining A-SIDES for Episode 222! You can follow Sons of Silver on their website and even find their official bootlegs on Bandcamp, which were recorded during their 2025 tour with Myles Kennedy. Sons of Silver's music can be found on your favorite streaming app and even their own downloadable app! And don't hesitate to follow the band on social media as they stay active!

Thanks for listening!

Last summer, Gus Rios released the Cold Slither album, which turned a fictional GI Joe cartoon group into a living, breathing entity! Gus' confidence as a songwriter and front man has taken shape with his next musical project, called Union Black. In A-SIDES Episode 221, he explains his growth as an artist, taking Cold Slither from the screen to your stereo, making honest music, re-imagining the music of Type O Negative and Depeche Mode, and even working alongside his musical icons.

You can listen to Union Black's existing music, Songs In The Key Of Black, on Bandcamp with forthcoming music later in 2026. If you're a fan of dark lyrics, 80's synth, and metal riffs, this is right up your alley!

Cold Slither's album and merch can be found through Reigning Phoenix Music and also on your favorite streaming app.

Huge thanks to Gus Rios for returning to A-SIDES to share details on Union Black and thanks to all who listen!

On March 21, 1976, Thin Lizzy released their 6th studio album, Jailbreak, which will celebrate it's 50th anniversary in 2026. You can still hear their anthem "The Boys Are Back In Town" on your local classic rock station or nightly on any tavern's jukebox. Three past guests returned to A-SIDES for Episode 220 to share their memories and reflect on the band's legacy.

Thanks to Ryan, Kenny, and Freddy for contributing to this episode, to Thin Lizzy for their enduring legacy, and thanks to all who listen!

Michigan-based recording artist Sammy Boller has recently recorded and released his solo EP titled Midnight Garden. He joined the podcast for Episode 219 to discuss his guitar playing, several of his favorite Michigan musicians, touring the world, the best pizza, and even practicing yoga.

You can find Sammy's music and tour dates on his website which also includes link to purchase merch and more! His music can also be streamed on your favorite streaming app and his Bandcamp page.

Thanks to Sammy for the interview, Kevin Chiaramonte, and everyone who listens! Thanks for another amazing year of A-SIDES.

James And The Cold Gun is an emerging rock band from the UK, described as "South Wales' Loudest", and they are set to perform in Central Illinois on December 4, 2025. Whether you live in Central IL or not, James And The Cold Gun are a band that should be on your music radar as they have a hard-driving, straight up rock n roll sound.

Frontman James Joseph joined Episode 218 ahead of the show to talk about trying to eat right on tour, his connections to 90's rock legends, and even Christmas music. 

You can follow James And The Cold Gun on Bandcamp, their website for merch and tour dates, and even stream them on your favorite app. Thanks to James, the entire band, and WWCT FM for setting up this interview.

Tickets for the Dec 4 concert can be found on WWCT's website.

Episode 217 features a fun conversation with Mike Leon, the brand new bassist for CKY. They just released a new single "Can't Stop Running", which preceded a UK tour and an announcement of a slot performing at the 2026 edition of Sonic Temple. Mike chats about discovering CKY, trying out different instruments in his youth, tattoos, favorite bands, and more! 

Huge thanks to Mike for the conversation, CKY, and Shane Handel. You can get CKY merch at their website and follow the band on social media!

November 7th 2025 was the release date for the long-awaited studio album from Finger Eleven titled Last Night On Earth. Guitarist Rick Jackett joined A-SIDES to share his songwriting process, along with the many influences of the band, living on a farm, performing on stage, and even a shared connection with Our Lady Peace and King's X.

Huge thanks to Rick for joining this episode and a big thank you to the entire Finger Eleven crew for the numerous hours of music they've created. You can follow along with the band through their website for tour dates and merch, including the latest record.

Thanks to everyone who listens!

Episode 190 started a mini-series within A-SIDES called "Everybody Loves Cheap Trick." In this next edition, 5 more guests share their interactions, experiences, and memories of one of the most beloved rock n roll bands, Cheap Trick. Episode 215 features-

Thanks to all the guests for sharing their stories and time with A-SIDES and thanks to everyone who listens!