Alec of IATT joins Tom on And Now The Band to discuss IATT's ambitious concept album Etheric Realms of the Night, the psychology of sleep and insomnia, and the band's incredible feature-length black metal rock opera film now available through Thunderflix.

Etheric Realms of the Night explores the different stages of sleep and the psychological experiences surrounding them, including insomnia, sleep deprivation, somniphobia, and the human mind. Alec explains how IATT approaches songwriting through extensive research and discussion of psychology, allowing the album's themes to influence both the music and the band's larger visual presentation.

The conversation goes much deeper when Alec discusses the 18-month process of creating IATT's feature-length black metal rock opera film. Created independently and largely self-financed by Alec and his team, the film was produced on a shoestring budget and combines IATT's music with cinematic storytelling without traditional dialogue.

Alec draws on his background in film school and music-video production to explain how the project came together, the enormous amount of time invested in it, and the self-doubt that comes with spending more than 500 hours on an ambitious creative project.

The film premiered in Philadelphia before being released on Thunderflix, and Alec discusses plans for film-festival submissions, a potential special-edition DVD/CD release, behind-the-scenes material, and the possibility of eventually presenting the film with a live pit-orchestra-style performance.

Tom and Alec also discuss:

• IATT's Etheric Realms of the Night
• Black metal and concept albums
• Sleep, insomnia and somniphobia
• The psychology behind IATT's music
• IATT's feature-length black metal film
• Black metal rock operas
• Thunderflix
• Independent filmmaking
• Film school and music-video production
• Spending 500+ hours on a creative project
• Overcoming self-doubt
• Album artwork and visual storytelling
• Vinyl, CDs and physical music
• Black Lion Records
• Envima Records
• The importance of the complete album experience
• Streaming vs. physical music
• IATT's upcoming West Coast tour
• Narcotic Wasteland
• Future live screenings and performances
• The future of IATT

Alec also talks about "Walk Amongst," one of his favorite IATT songs to perform, including the possibility of incorporating live saxophone into future performances.

The episode closes with discussion of IATT's upcoming touring plans, including their September West Coast tour, a show with Narcotic Wasteland, and the possibility of bringing their film to Louisville for a special screening and live event.

If you're a fan of black metal, extreme metal, concept albums, experimental music, independent filmmaking, psychological horror, or ambitious DIY music projects, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Tom sits down with recording engineer, producer, and mixer Mario Quintero for a deep conversation about three decades of recording music, the evolution of digital production, and the philosophy behind creating massive yet authentic-sounding records.

Mario discusses his work with bands including Spotlights, Pallbearer, Hiroe, Shiner, Amblare, Moon Destroys, and Bunuel, explaining how his approach to recording has evolved throughout his career. Rather than relying on endless processing or technical tricks, Mario emphasizes the importance of the song, the performance, and finding the right balance between instruments.

After beginning his recording journey with ADAT machines and eventually moving into Pro Tools, Mario explains how the transition from analog recording to modern digital production changed the way musicians and engineers work. He describes how today's musicians have access to an unprecedented amount of information and learning resources, allowing them to develop their skills faster than previous generations.

Mario also explains his "less is more" approach to production and how, over the last decade, he has moved away from heavily manipulating individual tracks toward creating space, balance, and interaction between instruments.

Additional topics include:

• Mario's 30-year recording career

• Engineering, mixing, mastering, and production

• Working with Spotlights and Pallbearer

• Hiroe and long-term musical relationships

• Shiner and the pressure of working with established bands

• Amblare and the Brian St. Pair recording

• Moon Destroys

• Bunuel with Eugene Robinson

• Working with smaller independent bands

• Analog recording and ADAT

• The transition to Pro Tools

• Modern digital recording techniques

• Why "less is more" can produce better records

• Balancing huge production with live energy

• Mixing and mastering

• Translating studio recordings to live performances

• Getting musicians to think about the band as a complete unit

Mario shares how being both a musician and engineer allows him to work backward from a desired sonic result, often envisioning the final record while creating demos. He also discusses the challenge of remaining objective when you're deeply involved in every stage of a project and the importance of having trusted people who will provide honest, unfiltered feedback.

The conversation goes beyond recording technology and into the psychology of making records. Mario explains why producers need to help musicians understand their role within the overall arrangement rather than focusing exclusively on their individual parts. He discusses overplaying, excessive effects, the importance of space, and why emotional impact ultimately matters more than technical perfection.

Mario also talks about why he particularly enjoys mixing, describing the process of discovering what a great recording can become once all of the individual performances are brought together.

For musicians, producers, engineers, and fans interested in what happens behind the scenes of heavy music, this episode provides an inside look at the creative and technical decisions that turn great performances into great records.

Tom welcomes legendary vocalist Mark Sunshine for an in-depth conversation covering more than three decades of heavy music, from his early days with Elysium and System Addict to his current work with Patriarchs in Black, Unida, and the emerging progressive metal project Lost Beacon.

Mark reflects on his musical journey, explaining why he stepped away from music at various points throughout his career rather than settling into performing cover songs. He discusses his time with Elysium before joining System Addict alongside Damon Trotta and Ed Furman, laying the foundation for a career built on authenticity and powerful vocal performances.

The conversation explores Mark's recent contributions to Patriarchs in Black, including recording "Immigrant Song" after being recommended by Mike of Non-Fiction. Mark also shares updates on the upcoming 4 Patriarchs release, revealing that three new songs are currently being completed ahead of a September deadline. He also teases another cover song suggested by Johnny Kelly of Type O Negative and Quiet Riot.

Additional topics include:

• Mark Sunshine's career history
• Elysium and System Addict
• Patriarchs in Black
• Recording "Immigrant Song"
• The upcoming 4 Patriarchs album
• Working with Johnny Kelly
• Unida's return
• Mojave Festival 2027
• Tabernas Festival in Spain
• Lost Beacon with Trevor from Ashen Hoard
• Performing classic songs while maintaining originality
• The importance of authentic live performances
• Touring as the ultimate test for new music

Mark also discusses his role as the vocalist for Unida since 2022, including upcoming appearances at Mojave Festival 2027 alongside Yawning Man, Mondo Generator, Red Fang, and Deathchant. While excited about the band's future, he candidly addresses the frustrations surrounding delays in releasing new material and emphasizes the importance of getting music into fans' hands.

Tom and Mark also dive into the philosophy of performing classic songs, discussing Rainbow, Led Zeppelin, and Chicago while exploring the balance between honoring iconic performances and maintaining one's own artistic identity. The conversation closes with updates on Lost Beacon, Mark's collaboration with Trevor from Ashen Hoard, which blends progressive metal and power metal into an exciting new creative direction.

Tom welcomes David back to the show for a complete recap of Holler of Doom 2026, reflecting on one of the festival's biggest and most successful years despite unpredictable weather, logistical challenges, and the ever-changing realities of organizing an independent music festival.

David shares how heavy rain and overnight storms threatened portions of the weekend but ultimately had little impact on the performances themselves. Thanks to careful planning, dedicated volunteers, and an incredible community effort, the festival ran smoothly with no major incidents while delivering two unforgettable days of underground heavy music.

The conversation highlights many of the standout performances from across the weekend, including unforgettable sets from Vibrolas, Crystal Spiders, Faerie Ring, Wyndryder, Year of October, Hollows, Phoxxxy Grandma, Earth Tomb, Riffzard, Ghost in Me, and Veilcaste, whose appearance marked the venue's 100th show. David also discusses how Vibrolas' partnership has helped shape the future direction of Holler of Doom, creating an even stronger foundation for future festivals.

Additional topics include:

• Holler of Doom 2026 recap
• Overcoming severe weather conditions
• Festival logistics and organization
• Record-breaking pre-sale ticket numbers
• Supporting more bands than ever before
• Vendor and sponsor appreciation
• Hagtronics' festival sponsorship
• Merchandise sales and festival branding
• Growing attendance from across the United States
• Community volunteers and teamwork
• Heat exhaustion response and attendee safety
• Planning Holler of Doom 2027
• Building one of the Southeast's premier underground heavy music festivals
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David also reflects on more than two decades of involvement in underground heavy music and how Holler of Doom has evolved from its humble beginnings into a destination event for doom, sludge, stoner rock, and underground metal fans. The episode concludes with a look ahead at future festivals, upcoming shows, and the continued growth of the Holler of Doom community.

Tom welcomes Patrick of Nashville-based heavy rock band Nehoda for a thoughtful conversation about the band's musical evolution, recording philosophy, the realities of balancing music with full-time careers, and the ever-changing Nashville music scene.

Patrick shares the story of relocating from Seattle to Nashville nearly a decade ago in search of a more affordable city where musicians could continue creating while maintaining sustainable careers. Together, Tom and Patrick reflect on Nashville's incredible level of musicianship and how many world-class performers balance their artistic passions alongside everyday professions.

The conversation explores Nehoda's evolution across four albums, highlighting the band's decision to embrace a more studio-oriented approach for their latest recordings. Patrick explains how layering guitars, vocals, and additional textures allowed the band to expand beyond their traditional live recording style while preserving the emotional core of each song. He also discusses revisiting earlier material by re-recording five songs with drummer Chip, giving longtime fans a fresh perspective on the band's growth and improved production.

Additional topics include:

• Moving from Seattle to Nashville
• Nashville's thriving music community
• Building songs inside the recording studio
• The band's evolution over four albums
• Re-recording classic songs with drummer Chip
• Independent music promotion and PR strategies
• Balancing a full-time career with touring
• Quality over quantity in live performances
• Weekend touring and regional expansion
• The changing Nashville music landscape
• Staying artistically authentic in a commercial music city
• Learning to enjoy the present instead of constantly chasing the next goal
• Family, loss, perspective, and finding balance through music

Patrick also opens up about the challenges of managing the business side of an independent band while maintaining his passion for creating music. The discussion concludes with an honest conversation about personal growth, the importance of appreciating each milestone, and why making meaningful music remains the band's greatest priority.

Tom welcomes David, Rodrigo, and Antonio of UK heavy rock band Okay You Win for an in-depth conversation about their debut full-length album End of Days, recording with producer Andy Hawkins, signing with Blues Funeral Recordings, and building a career through authenticity rather than chasing trends.

The band reflects on the creation of End of Days, discussing how every song was written honestly from personal experiences without trying to fit into commercial expectations. Tom praises the album's dynamic songwriting, particularly the opening track "Smoke," while the band shares the stories behind standout songs including "Beat Me Down," "The Greatest Lie," and "Red Flag."

David explains how the lyric "I won't break" became a defining statement for the record, representing perseverance through life's challenges. Rodrigo discusses the collaborative effort that shaped "The Greatest Lie," while Antonio highlights the spontaneous punk energy that made "Red Flag" one of the band's favorite songs to perform live.

Additional topics include:

• The making of End of Days
• Recording with producer Andy Hawkins in Leeds
• Signing with Blues Funeral Recordings
• Honest songwriting and artistic authenticity
• Lessons learned during the recording process
• Desertfest London
• Opening for Alan Johannes
• Performing at London's legendary Underworld
• Opening for Orange Goblin at Cart & Horses
• Queens of the Stone Age's influence
• Favorite emerging UK bands
• Touring Europe and future U.S. plans
• Expanding internationally while remaining independent

The conversation also explores the band's rapid growth, from early local performances with friends to festival appearances and major support slots. The members discuss the importance of staying true to their artistic vision while building momentum across Europe and looking ahead to future tours in the United States. Their passion for songwriting, friendship, and genuine connection with listeners shines throughout this engaging interview.

Tom welcomes Atlanta extreme metal trio Apostle for an emotional and insightful conversation about their latest EP, A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon, the band's creative evolution, and how personal loss has shaped both their music and outlook on life.

The members of Apostle discuss how transitioning from a four-piece to a three-piece lineup strengthened their chemistry, streamlined their songwriting, and created a more focused creative process. Working through daily rehearsals, collaborative vision boards, and open communication, the band has developed an approach that balances technical precision with emotional intensity.

A major focus of the conversation centers on grief, healing, and finding purpose through music. Maurice shares the deeply personal experiences that inspired much of the EP following the loss of multiple family members in 2024, explaining how those experiences brought greater clarity to both his songwriting and his perspective on life. Tom also reflects on his own experiences with loss, leading to an honest discussion about the healing power of music and the connections it creates between people from all walks of life.

Additional topics include:

• The making of A Splinter in the Infinite Noumenon
• Working with Terminus Hate City
• The evolution from four members to three
• Vision boards and collaborative songwriting
• Building stronger band chemistry
• Touring throughout the Southeast
• Long-term plans for the Northeast, Canada, Europe, and Japan
• Vinyl color variants and physical releases
• Creating artwork alongside Fabio using early demos and visual concepts
• Balancing day jobs with independent touring
• Atlanta's thriving underground metal community
• Favorite albums and artist recommendations

The band also discusses the importance of maintaining friendships outside of rehearsal through regular non-music gatherings, demonstrating how strong personal relationships continue to fuel Apostle's creative growth. The result is an honest conversation about resilience, artistic purpose, and building meaningful heavy music through trust, collaboration, and shared experience.

Tom sits down with the members of Soft Curse—Jonny (vocals/guitar), Jef (bass), Michael "Mitch" (guitar), and Dan (drums)—to discuss their debut album Liminal Ritual, the band's origins following State Faults, and their unique blend of doom metal, post-rock, and atmospheric songwriting.

The band reflects on how lifelong friendships and years of playing together naturally led to the formation of Soft Curse, allowing them to explore slower tempos, massive riffs, clean vocals, and cinematic textures while moving beyond the screamo and post-hardcore foundation of their previous band.

The conversation explores the making of Liminal Ritual, including the decision to record the entire album live to two-inch analog tape in a single day. The band explains how the pressure of capturing complete performances created an organic energy that perfectly matched the emotional weight of the songs.

Additional topics include:

• The creation of Liminal Ritual
• Recording live to analog tape
• Vinyl collecting and rare pressings
• Favorite records and musical influences
• The transition from State Faults
• DIY artwork, music videos, and independence
• Spotify music discovery
• Spotlights and modern "doomgaze"
• Chelsea Wolfe, Pallbearer, Electric Wizard, Acid King, and Mars Red Sky
• Building Dan's custom drum kit
• Favorite songs from the album
• "Weight of the Sky" and its deeply personal inspiration
• Bringing melody and atmosphere into heavy music
• Touring opportunities and future East Coast shows

The band also shares stories behind several of the album's standout tracks, discussing the collaborative songwriting process, the emotional experiences that shaped the record, and why maintaining complete creative independence remains central to Soft Curse's identity. The result is a thoughtful conversation about friendship, artistic growth, and creating emotionally powerful heavy music without compromise.

Tom welcomes Ralph Torres of New York hardcore band Total Meltdown for a conversation covering the band's new EP2, the evolution of modern hardcore, vinyl releases, live performances, and the importance of mental health within the music community.

Ralph discusses how Total Meltdown expanded beyond the traditional hardcore formula on EP2, introducing dynamic songwriting, noise textures, and greater emotional depth while maintaining the intensity and speed that define the genre. He also explains the band's decision to release shorter EPs, allowing listeners to experience focused collections of songs that encourage repeat listens while adapting to today's music consumption habits.

The conversation explores the band's unique vinyl presentation, featuring a striking triptych artwork created by Chuck Barrett with creative direction from bassist Drew Castle. Ralph also reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome while starting the band alongside longtime friends and experienced musicians, including guitarist Chris, whose musical background helped shape the band's early direction.

Additional topics include:

• The release of EP2 on vinyl and streaming platforms

• The evolution of New York hardcore

• Vinyl artwork and collectible releases

• Performing their first livestream during the pandemic

• First live shows and building confidence on stage

• Touring throughout the Northeast

• Supporting independent music scenes

• Spotlights, Mr. Bungle, Melvins, and Gorilla Biscuits

• Non-alcoholic beer and changing lifestyles

• Community, friendship, and hardcore culture

• Men's Mental Health Month

• Using music as an outlet for mental health awareness

  
  

  
  

Ralph also shares how songwriting has become a powerful form of self-expression, allowing him to address personal struggles while creating meaningful connections with listeners. Together, Tom and Ralph discuss how hardcore music continues to build supportive communities where honesty, resilience, and shared experiences remain at the forefront.

Tom welcomes Amos Rifkin of Insomniac for a special episode announcing the band's upcoming Fall 2026 tour while discussing independent touring, festival culture, the evolving live music landscape, and what's next for the band.

Amos shares details about Insomniac's newly announced fall tour, which follows directly after their summer run and features performances throughout the Midwest, Northeast, and East Coast. He discusses the importance of reaching new cities, returning to longtime supporters, and building sustainable touring opportunities through strong relationships with venues and promoters.

The conversation also explores the realities of booking tours in today's music industry, the resurgence of smaller markets, and why intimate venues continue to be the backbone of underground heavy music. Amos reflects on the changing culture surrounding live events, including the growth of all-ages shows and the increasing popularity of alcohol-free social spaces.

Additional topics include:

• The Summer and Fall 2026 Insomniac tours
• Touring with Slumbering Sun
• Bog Social's 12th Anniversary celebration
• Booking shows across the United States
• Building audiences in smaller music markets
• The rise of all-ages venues
• Non-alcoholic bars, THC beverages, and changing concert culture
• In the Key of Dune Fest
• Joint Jam Festival
• Wisconsin Doomed & Stoned Festival
• Visiting Acadia National Park while on tour
• Writing Insomniac's next album
• Exploring themes of grief, healing, and personal growth through music

Amos also reflects on how the underground music community continues to thrive through collaboration, grassroots promotion, and meaningful relationships, offering an inside look at what it takes to keep independent heavy music alive while preparing for Insomniac's next creative chapter.