Blowing Smoke with Twisted Rico

Mike Worm joins us to talk about a cool show happening at The C Note in Hull, MA on August 29, featuring Unnatural Axe, The FU’s, Spectacle, and of course—WORM.

Known for their relentless energy, raw lyrics, and deep roots in the local scene, WORM has built a loyal following up and down the East Coast. With four records already under their belt, they’re gearing up to release their explosive fifth album, Slave Driver, in 2025—a ferocious statement of resistance and survival in a chaotic world.

Tune in as Mike shares what fans can expect at the show and how WORM is spreading the word.

Music

Gang Green "Out On The Couch"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

The Charms "So Pretty"

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

Tyler Pollard joins us from the electrifying Boston-based trio Robotic Hawks, a band that may have been flying just under your radar — until now. Fresh off the release of their latest EP, New, Better Things, Tyler takes us on a deep dive into the band’s journey: from their early days cutting their teeth in local clubs to collaborating with studio heavyweights Benny Grotto and Paul Q. Kolderie — two producers I’ve long admired.

With their signature blend of pub rock punch and garage-pop hooks, Robotic Hawks are crafting a sound that's raw, infectious, and unmistakably their own. We also talk about their inspired cover of the Crowded House deep cut “Something So Strong” — which naturally gave me a reason to shout out Split Enz, a favorite from my college radio days.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering Robotic Hawks, this episode is your backstage pass to the energy, chemistry, and no-nonsense grit that powers their music.

Music

Gang Green "Out On The Couch"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

The Charms "So Pretty"

(All music used with label and artist permission)

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

Sixteen years ago, acclaimed singer-songwriter Pete Droge set out to find his birth mother—only to discover her obituary. That moment sparked an unexpected and deeply personal journey through loss, identity, illness, and healing. In this moving podcast, Droge shares the story behind Fade Away Blue, his most autobiographical album to date. Through candid conversation, poetic insight, and intimate musical moments, Droge explores the emotional terrain of adoption, family, creativity, and resilience. It’s a story of transformation—not just in music, but in life.

Music

The Charms "So Pretty"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

Paul Rajpal, guitarist for the acclaimed doom metal band Morne, joins us to discuss their latest album, Engraved With Pain (Metal Blade Records), and the band's upcoming performance at the Somergloom Festival on August 9 in Somerville, MA.

Music

The Charms "So Pretty"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

Thank you Joe’s Albums, Taang!, and Spectacle Eyeware

Chris Conway returns to the show to discuss the new EP from his band, The Gypsy Moths — a project he also produced. We also dive into a full review of The Dogmatics' Nowheresville album, along with plenty of other great conversation.

Music

The Charms "So Pretty"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

In tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, we're revisiting a special episode originally aired on October 8, 2021. In this conversation, Duncan Wilder Johnson and I talk about and debate the legacy of Black Sabbath and reflect on what the band—and Ozzy himself—meant to us personally and musically. Join us as we honor the Prince of Darkness and the band that changed rock forever.

Music

The Charms

The Dogmatics

Guitar Riffs by Duncan Wilder Johnson

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

This episode recorded by Mike Nash at Voice Motel

Additional edits by Duncan Wilder Johnson

On this episode, we are joined by all three members of the legendary Ape Hangers.

At the end of June, we did a zoom interview with Pete Sjostedt, Bob Kiah, and Dennis McCarthy — better known as Ape Hangers — for a fun, free-flowing conversation. These guys are not only amazing musicians but longtime friends and all-around great people. At the time, we were a little vague about what was on the horizon, but now I can finally let the cat out of the bag: Ape Hangers are officially back with a brand-new EP and single coming soon on Rum Bar Records. It’s been over 20 years since their incredible self-titled second album and even longer since their debut on A&M Records, which featured the unforgettable “I Don’t Want To Live Today,” famously included in the cult classic film Empire Records.

And here’s the really exciting part — the band is playing their first Boston show in more than two decades on Saturday, August 23 at 3 PM at the Midway Cafe in Jamaica Plain. They’ll be sandwiched between two Boston rock staples, The Dogmatics and Stop Calling Me Frank, making it a powerhouse lineup for anyone who loves real, gritty, high-energy rock 'n' roll.

Music

Ape Hangers " She Comes Again

The Charms "So Pretty"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

Thank you Joe's Albums, Taang, and Spectacle Eyeware

On this episode we are joined by singer/songwriter Isabella Pombrio—an emerging indie artist forging a unique path in Nashville’s music scene while juggling the demands of college life. Originally from New Jersey, Isabella blends heartfelt songwriting with nostalgic alt-rock influences from the ’90s and early 2000s, crafting a sound that’s both intimate and raw.

Whether performing solo acoustic sets or rocking out with her alt-rock band Good Damage, Isabella thrives in the DIY spirit—gracing everything from university radio to live vinyl sessions. This podcast dives into her creative process, the balancing act between student life and songwriting, and what’s next as she builds a steady stream of releases, both solo and collaborative. Tune in for an inside look at one of indie’s most promising up-and-comers.

Music

The Charms "So Pretty"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

In this episode, we sit down with Ronnie Barnett, bassist and founding member of The Muffs, a cornerstone band in the 90s garage pop-punk scene. Ronnie shares stories from the band's nearly 30-year journey, offering insight into his role in crafting their signature sound. With deep musical roots and a sharp ear for melody, Ronnie helped define an era of punk-pop that still resonates today. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the scene, this conversation is packed with music history, behind-the-scenes stories, and creative inspiration. And Ronnie is a huge KISS fan.

Music

The Charms "So Pretty"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

Join us for a lively episode, recorded live on WMFO, as we're accompanied by former music journalist and musician Charles Terlino (Waylon & Co) for a musical journey through songs that remind us of summer. Expect a fun tune, some wild stories, offbeat opinions, and plenty of laughs along the way. It's summer nostalgia with a twist! No Yacht Rock allowed?

Music

The Charms "So Pretty"

The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll"

Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

Engineered by Mike Newman live on WMFO on Saturday July 5, 2025