Chord Progression Podcast: The Gateway to New Rock and Metal Music

Every single day, it becomes harder and harder for musicians to stand out and be noticed. This is due to a number of factors from increades competition from so many other musicians releasing music, following the algorithms of social media and streaming platforms, and everything else trying to grab your attention.

Newer artists have it even tougher as they do not have an established brand or an established identity yet with the masses to be recognized and given that attention outright. So what must they do in order to give themselves a chance online? Create a brand that is uniquely them, but not fall prey to the algorithms and become a "meme band."

Austin and Ryan from the emo/melodic hardcore band Everbloom join the Chord Progression Podcast today. With a new band on the horizon for you, we dive deep into this new artist by discussing:

- The origin of Everbloom and the importance of finding other band members that are just as invested in the success of it as the rest of the members are.

- How important it is to properly create a brand for the branmd and for the music both visually, and to create a consistent sonic connection with the fans that they can immediately connect with.

- Songs like "The Day We Said Goodbye" with its emotional toll, and the aggressive upcoming song "The Luxury of Decency," focusing on why being beholden to an algorithm on social media and playing into it directly can be a negative move in the long run.

Young artists and music fans take note, this is what artists are dealing with today. Tap the subscribe button as much more like this will continue to come your way.

Find Everbloom Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everbloom.noise

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everbloom.noise

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@everbloom.noise

YouTube: https://youtu.be/8k_2XB8hc-I?si=aEaszbk9rii65Xcn

Merch: https://everbloomnoise.bigcartel.com

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2sx3Hd5b5ngatbPEuW0BXL?si=fyBd0RONQbyM2Lzz8e2I3g

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/everbloom/1851544939

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

A New Face, & A Returning One, Kicks Us Off: (1:51)

The Origin Story of Everbloom: (4:02)

The Imortance of Properly Branding your Band & Music: (11:45)

Writing "The Day We Said Goodbye" to Sound Distant: (21:29)

The Cricket Sample?: (28:29)

What's the Next Single?: (32:25)

A Younger Band's Take on the Tik Tok & Social Media Problem for Musicians: (37:08)

The Meme Band Trap: (40:55)

What's Next in 2026?: (50:11)

New Artits to Check Out: (53:32)

Kevin's Final Thought; Reflecting on 700 Episodes: (1:01:02)

The Veer Union has been around for over 20 years at this point and relevant for that entire time, something that very few musicians and artists could ever say. Naturally, the band is not the same as they were back when they started in 2004. If the world isn't the same as it was back then, do you think a band should be the same as it once was?

So throughout the span of 20+ years and 7 albums to their name, where is the band now sonically? How has their evolution led to a career spanning 20+ year with no end in sight? Well, there is a simple word... "Reinvention."

Crispin from the Canadian hard rock/alternative emtal band The Veer Union joins the Chord Progression Podcast. With the bands 8th album "Reinvention" releasing on February 20th, we have an incredible 30 minute conversation talking all about:

- How having belief in yourself and investing in your success while weeding out others who don't believe in your vision led to The Veer Union having a long and successful career so far.

- The brand new album "Reinvention" evolves The Veer Union's sound forward into an even heavier direction, against a mass saturation of similar sounds in heavy music today.

- Which non-singles to get ready for on "Reinvention," including Dying Light and Hole In My Head.

Another great episode with a long standing artist in heavy music. Tap the subscribe button as we keep these conversations coming.

Find The Veer Union Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theveerunion

Twitter: https://x.com/theveerunion

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theveerunion

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theveerunionofficial

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/theveerunion

Website: https://theveerunion.net/home

Merch: https://shop.theveerunion.net

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2WQQRKpu2PMLsHSrUJmyCS?si=myWEhjaYT3CVqMSJLtjAbg

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-veer-union/304652483

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Reflecting on Being a Band for 20+ Years: (1:36)

What is in the Sound of "Reinvention?" (5:29)

What Made The Veer Union Heavier?: (8:19)

Not Stopping Until All Songs are Good: (12:20)

Fan Reception to New Music: (13:54)

Non-Singles to Watch For: (16:23)

Why The Veer Union Hasn't Toured Since 2022: (22:34)

Artists to Check Out... if You Haven't: (26:15)

Kevin's Final Thought; Find Those Who Want to Invest in You: (30:03)

Music has, is, and always will be used as a vehicle to help people all across the world find some sort of emotional positivity in their lives. It helps make people feel better and more self-worth when they are feeling down and out. It makes people feel motivated when they lack the will or the drive to do something in life. It makes them feel positives in the world when negatives protrude the perception of life.

And for artists, we know they make their music for the same reasons. Process emotions that make them feel less than their own worth, to find that self-worth yet again. It helps them break through those tough moments in life, and continue to grow through life.

Dylan and John from the Pennsylvania metalcore band, Execution Day, join the Chord Progression Podcast. With a brand new single "I Know I'll Survive" to start 2026, and a new album due out soon, we have a great conversation talking about:

- The core themes of self-betterment and getting through the tough times in life that Execution Day focuses on with their music, given how the band was formed with those ideals in mind for those who created it.

- Writing the newest song "I Know I'll Survive" and creating a subjective emotional connection for the fans through each and every song.

- How their second record evolves the themes of self-betterment and dealing with adversity through a real world experience like a divorce.

Let's get you into a new artist today, and more new music throughout the year. Tap the subscribe button to not miss out on any more.

Find Execution Day Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExecutionDay

Twitter: https://x.com/execution_day

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/executionday/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@executiondaymusic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjfGLI5PblSJhUKyNkVUedg

Website: https://www.theoriarecords.com/pages/execution-day

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3f3CYDS0i8Z0Egxp9gwD1Z?si=GxAANkOGSL2cq0ZHTkzPiw

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/execution-day/1163921616

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Life is Tough, Music Helps, a Core Theme: (1:49)

The Backstory of Execution Day: (8:30)

How the Release of "Hollow" Led to a Change: (14:55)

Continued Themes on New Album: (19:19)

Seeing Beacon of Hope, Quantitatively: (28:14)

"I Know I'll Survive" Backstory & Subjectivity: (30:29)

Finding the Right Producer, Rehashed: (45:32)

When is LP 2 Coming Out?: (47:57)

New Artists to Check Out: (51:23)

Kevin's Final Thought; It's Not Easy Being the Beacon of Hope: (59:20)

It has been 10 years since Capsize released their last record, A Reintroduction: The Essence of All That Surrounds Me. Since then, Capsize went away, and have released a few singles since 2022. But if we are talking about them in an intro like this, there has to be something new coming, right?

Well of course there is, but what is that new thing? Is it new music? And if it is new music, what does it consist of? How is writing music now different for Capsize than 10 years ago? And is it going to connect with fans old and new when it finally releases? Let's get the insight for you.

Daniel from Capsize joins the Chord Progression Podcast today. With the band's return EP, Under a Hollow Sky, releasing on February 6th, we get you ready for the EP and how the band has changed artistically in the last 10 years. On this episode, we talk about:

- The difference between the sound & writing on the new EP, Under a Hollow Sky, and the last album from 2016, stemming from Daniel not having a need to put tunnel vision on making music and ignoring the other influences life throws our way.

- Why Daniel writes Capsize's lyrics based on emotion, and guiding the emotion of the story to you instead of telling a story that very few can connect with on a deep level.

- How "The Scars You Left Are the Only Proof I Existed" touches on a nostalgic MySpace post-hardcore sound, to bring forward a feeling of a less complicated life we all remember from the past.

This is a great episode to reenergize your Capsize fandom. Tap the subscribe button to see more artists and new music coming your way.

Find Capsize Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/capsizeband

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DT9fuEuDKXa/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKS8R3AAUTNBg6of7bdJc_g

Merch: https://www.rouxandruin.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnW79i8Sjm0xt-S8wUwgO3oHMSQtqB0XHtIgHgossERbeTupnarM5A7p6k4Mg_aem_KgJB5ZDVomhzmmHlJxTM6w

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Nt2h0gWNi9cxuLeNjOsET?si=oCv29VpXQ7eOdx4R_hHE9g

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/capsize/178118428

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Hyped Up Intro for Capsize: (1:55)

Initial Thoughts Prior to EP Drop: (3:17)

Reflecting on First Release in 10 Years: (4:56)

How Capsize Lyrics Focus on Emotion: (11:48)

The Non-Single to Check Out: (21:01)

Deep Cuts Better Than Singles?: (31:03)

What Comes After "Under A Hollow Sky": (33:06)

New Artists to Check Out: (34:00)

Kevin's Final Thought; Does Big Band Perspective Distort Quality Music?: (39:45)

Before the pandemic, you easily knew the band Oh, Sleeper in the metalcore world. And why not, they were putting out great music at that time. But then, they were gone. At the same time, Dayseeker released Sleeptalk and started to build on some national recognition. Both bands were going in different directions when the pandemic hit.

So, now that it is 2026, Dayseeker has released 2 albums since Sleeptalk and have gone from a band headlining in front of 200 cap rooms, to a band headlining 4,000+ cap venues, with worldwide recognition. And Oh, Sleeper is coming back too? There is only one person that could give us the inside scoop of this all.

Zac Mayfield, drummer for both Dayseeker and Oh, Sleeper is our guest on the Chord Progression Podcast today. Oh this episode we dive into both bands and reflect on them by talking about:

- The rise of Dayseeker since Zac joined the band back in 2022 as well as how fans of rock & metal seem to be much more accepting of experimentation, leading to more artists rising.

- How the pandemic may have been the perfect catalyst for rock & metal to gain prominence in music once again, by capitalizing on the shared experience of millions stuck at home, discovering the genres for the first time, online, together.

- The status on Oh, Sleeper, what is going on with the new album, and why it is going to be a little bit weird.

A full runthrough of 2 great bands, as well as why rock & metal are popular again. Tap the subscribe button because plenty more conversations like this are coming your way.

Find Zac, Dayseeker, & Oh, Sleeper Online:

Facebook (Zac): https://www.facebook.com/zac.mayfield.2025

Facebook (Dayseeker): https://www.facebook.com/dayseeker

Facebook (Oh, Sleeper): https://www.facebook.com/ohsleeper

Twitter (Zac): https://x.com/ZacMayfield

Twitter (Dayseeker): https://x.com/dayseeker

Twitter (Oh, Sleeper): https://x.com/weareohsleeper

Instagram (Zac): https://www.instagram.com/zacmayfield/

Instagram (Dayseeker): https://www.instagram.com/dayseeker/

Instagram (Oh, Sleeper): https://www.instagram.com/ohsleepertx/

Tik Tok (Dayseeker): https://www.tiktok.com/@dayseekerband

YouTube (Dayseeker): https://www.youtube.com/@Dayseekerband

YouTube (Oh, Sleeper): https://www.youtube.com/@OhSleeperOfficial

Website (Dayseeker): https://dayseeker.band

Website (Oh, Sleeper): https://ohsleeper.com

Spotify (Dayseeker): https://open.spotify.com/artist/5FjQVp1Lb0kltmwIuu5kfj?si=0vH7oW7lSsWnN-sHyTV53w

Spotify (Oh, Sleeper): https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HMsQNXUa0je3yG5REHkQ7?si=IyUdPDqKTei9-upufTpSoA

Apple Music (Dayseeker): https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dayseeker/726336927

Apple Music (Oh, Sleeper): https://music.apple.com/us/artist/oh-sleeper/266082417

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Zac Mayfield is Here: (1:54)

Reflecting on the Rise of Dayseeker since 2022: (3:48)

Why Experimentation in Metal has Become Accepted: (6:55)

How the Pandemic Helped Rock & Metal Become Popular: (14:15)

A New Oh, Sleeper Album Incoming?: (27:37)

The Release of the New Oh, Sleeper Album: (38:02)

New Artists to Check Out: (39:26)

Kevin's Final Thought; Recapping Rise of Metalcore since Pandemic: (42:33)

One question that all young artists and bands must ask themselves is this... what sets you apart from everyone else? Why should people and music fans in general care about your band at all? Is there anything that would draw that fan into your band and into your music compared to all of the other artists out there?

Well when it comes to a younger band, this band might have just discovered those principles and put them into action. They may have just the sound to do it, but further understand the importance of the visual connection that fans must find to connect with a band. When an artist can connect with you more than just through the sense of sound, then you have something worth while.

Andrey and Sahsa from the New England hard rock band Major Moment join the Chord Progression Podcast today, on their request to be a part of the show. Naturally we obliged because we knew a conversation with them would be more than worth it. On this episode, we discuss:

- Why Major Moment decided to go with a visual color theme of purple going forward, how they can use it to show a visual connection and visual evolution to fans, and the importance of it all for connection and live show.

- If colored merch, outside of just the standard black t-shirt, is working for the band and the possible shift in the merch tastes of the American audience.

- How they learned to put on the best live show by watching larger bands do it at Blue Ridge Rock Fest 2021, from stage setup to preshow preparation for the best transitions.

This is an episode that all younger artists should be checking out and listening to. Tap the subscribe button as there are plenty of these conversations still to come.

Find Major Moment Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/majormoment

Twitter: https://x.com/majormomentband

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/major.moment/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@majormoment

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@majormomentvevo242

Website: https://majormomentband.com

Merch: https://majormomentband.com/merch/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4PRHkf31ZSxZ5tbYe8xMZm?si=dVO-NvBKQliZj0FiKiQfyw

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/major-moment/1390215693

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Major Moment is Here, By Their Request: (2:00)

Why the Masquerade in Atlanta Creates Best Live Environment: (4:54)

How Major Moment Captures Attention as an Opener: (9:31)

The Genius of a Color Theme: (13:41)

The Colorful Merch & Visual Connection: (24:54)

The Importance of Creating a Visual Connection: (30:02)

Learning how to Operate Live from Other Bands: (36:27)

What's Next for Major Moment?: (46:06)

New Artists to Check Out: (51:31)

Kevin's Final Thought; The Color Theme is Genius: (58:48)

What makes a band or artist go from a local act, to one that is touring the world and making music that is listened to day after day by many people around the world? There are many theories on this but on this episode, we found out the reason.

It is the same reason why your favorite songs have the staying power in your mind for so many years. It is the same reason why movies and TV shows use music to enhance everything about the story. It is the same reason why artists are able to take a viral moment and make it last, instead of burning out after their 15 minutes of fame. So what's the reason? It all boils down to emotion.

Timo from Our Mirage rejoins the Chord Progression Podcast for the second time, but this time with Our Mirage and their new album "Fractured Minds" releasing on January 30th, 2026. This episode is easily our most insightful for music fans, and all musicians out there. Join us as we discuss:

- How Our Mirage was able to create a successful viral video with 3 great parts included, and why they were able to show sustained growth and success because of it, as their social media following grew by more than 500%.

- The writing of "Fratcured Minds" as a metalcore album with ambience to focus in on mental health and the struggles we all face on a daily basis.

- Why artists & musicians succed and grow today with their music, when they discover how to connect emotion properly to their music, and hold it throughout the entire journey of a song.

This episode still has us buzzing mentally and is easily one of our best of all time. Hit that subscribe button as we try and do better than this in all of 2026.

Find Our Mirage:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OurMirageBand

Twitter: https://x.com/ourmirage1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourmirageband

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ourmirageband

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBIsogAjd-4QZBChuxqmD-A

Website: https://ourmirage.de

Merch: https://arising-empire.shop/kuenstler/our-mirage/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1QpYiCxy3p5Wz7HtomBqHU?si=ximT267vSjCVKbJ3JPMSpA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/our-mirage/1254960910

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Timo Has Returned: (2:10)

How Their Viral Moment in 2025 Succeded: (5:23)

The Making of a Great Viral Video: (9:45)

Don't Look, Schlager, & Timeless: (11:50)

The Waterfall Release of Fractured Minds: (15:39)

What was "Fractured Minds" Written About?: (26:56)

The Most Insightful Music Moment Ever on the Chord Progression Podcast: (34:40)

The 2026 Plan, Post-Release: (49:59)

New Artists to Check Out: (53:45)

Kevin's Final Thought; New Understanding Unlocked: (57:53)

UK metalcore band Shields split in 2018 given the tragic circumstances with the passing of guitarist George Cristie. Very few thought the band would ever make music again, return to the stage, or just be around. Their return would truly be a miracle for metalcore.

Well now it is 2026, and after 8 years, not only has that miracle come true, but the band has a full new album coming out. But everyone has questions about it. Will the new album sound like the first one from 2018? Will the band be successful in getting the album out to the fans? And will they take inspiration from their split to drive the emotion of the new music? Well fear not because we have the answers, thanks to them.

Sam and Krish from the UK metalcore band Shields come to the Chord Progression Podcast with the release of their return album "Death & Connection" releasing on January 30th. Join us as we dive deep into their return as we discuss:

- Writing "Death & Connection" as a form of therapy upon their return to music, & how much more eclectic and expansive their sound is compared to their first album "Life in Exile"

- Ending the album with the emotional "Miss Me" as the proper epilogue to the album after the wild and forever changing "Death & Connection"

- Why musicians struggle with promoting on social media that is driven by short form content, and the necessary yet difficult task of finding their niche

An incredibly eclectic album from a band making their much needed return. Tap that subscribe button as we will keep episodes like this coming all year long.

Find Shields Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shieldsuk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shieldsuk/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shieldsuk

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@shieldsukofficial

Website: https://shields.band

Merch: https://shields.band/store/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7axtOAPWPWUITkUpTHL34I?si=2lRiQmfCT5-Y4yauYqR_bw

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/shields/1341040761

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Presenting Shields... Again: (2:09)

The Single Release Plan & Krish Joining: (5:26)

Why Most Musicians Struggle with Social Media: (11:03)

What is the "Niche" Content Needed: (21:58)

Writing "Miss Me" and the "Death & Connection" Album as a Whole: (24:57)

Krist's First Reaction to "Death & Connection": (34:03)

Diving Into a Few of the Singles: (39:10)

Non-Single to Check Out & Ending with "Miss Me": (41:33)

What to Expect Throughout 2026: (51:14)

New Artists to Check Out: (53:16)

Kevin's Final Thought; Understanding Social Media & The Depth of Sound on "Death & Connection": (59:11)

Are younger artists, smaller artists, and emerging artists outgrowing smaller venues from a production perspective? Think about it. As technology progresses and artists are finding it more viable to have their own in-ear monitors, own lighting and rigs, in order to sound the best and put on the best show, are smaller venues going to be able to keep up with it?

For artists that are in that spot right now, there is a struggle connecting with those types of venues. Does their sound system work well enough for the sound that you need to put on a good show? Are there too many artists on a bill to do a proper sound check? Will cutting corners create a less-than-stellar show and create a negative experience for a band, a venue, and the fans that show up? How can we ensure that doesn't happen?

Vik from the modern rock band Telling Secrets joins the Chord Progression Podcast today. An hour long conversation ensues to show you who the band is and what is going on with small venues. So we talk about:

- If a smaller artists' will and ability to create their best sound with their own equipment outgrow the smaller venues from a production aspect? And how can venues and artists work together to create an experience that allows a band to put on the best show, the fans to have the best time, and the venues to succeed in the long run?

- The dead period of new music and live shows between the end of December and the middle of January every year, and if that dead period is shortening as we progress through the decade.

- Who Telling Secrets is, how Matt McAndrew of Rain City Drive aided the band, and how Vik is learning from his past songs to write stronger songs that connect with people on a stronger level.

A fantastic episode that will also make you think about how smaller shows can be the best value for everyone involved going forward. Tap the subscribe button because episodes like this are not stopping.

Find Telling Secrets Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TellingxSecrets

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tellingsecrets/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tellingxsecrets

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuC03nEH0vpOZ3X05cayIEw

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5gOEb5JcLM5qEnorwA1lFO?si=eVRfIWWHSLyIsLBasNP2EA

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/telling-secrets/1552822021

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

Making the Most of 2026 Already: (1:59)

Is the Dead Period for Music at the End of a Year Shortening?: (3:58)

Will Artists Outgrow Small Venues, Production-Wise?: (10:42)

What Smaller Artists & Venues Need to Do to Win at Smaller Venues: (20:24)

Telling Secrets, with Help from Matt of Rain City Drive: (30:45)

Has Telling Secrets Created Connection with their Songs in the Past?: (40:56)

What's On Tap for 2026?: (51:30)

New Artists to Check Out: (53:45)

Kevin's Final Thought; Can Small Venues Elevate Shows for Bands, Fans, & Themselves All Together?: (59:09)

When a band replaces a longtime vocalist, fans usually have a tough time accepting the change and giving the new vocalist a chance. This is because music is a personal thing for many of us, and a deeply connective thing on an emotional level for many of us. Some go into the new experience with an open mind, and others never give it a chance.

But this one, we implore you to give it a chance. Because the music is just that good, the vocals are just as heavy, and the connective sound to emotion is so well done, you will want to listen to the album over and over and over again. Trust us, we already are.

John from the Japanese metalcore band Crystal Lake joins the Chord Progression Podcast. With the band's first album in 7 years, The Weight of Sound, releasing on January 23rd (and the first with new vocalist John Robert Centorrino), we dive deep into the album and John's time with Crystal Lake since 2023. Join us as we discuss.

- John taking over for longtime vocalist Ryo Kinoshita, and why vocalist changes in any band are tough for fans to process and accept, but why John isn't worried about it.

- How different recording "The Weight of Sound" was compared to other albums John had recorded with bands from the west, and how a sharp focus on the small details makes all the difference.

- Why "The Weight of Sound" was written like a diary, with songs like Coma Wave, The Undertow, Everblack, and Don't Breathe showing a connective tale all based on emotion.

We have not been able to stop listening to this album and neither will you. Tap the subscribe button because episodes like this are always coming your way.

Find Crystal Lake Online:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crystallake777

Twitter: https://x.com/crystallake777

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystallake777

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@crystallake_official

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrystalLake-worldwide

Website: https://crystallake-worldwide.com

Merch: https://merchcamp.shop/collections/crystal-lake

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0A7d0PJxaLO7CGI94ht6PX?si=hmovGvJNRtmAMWN1fEgxGQ

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/crystal-lake/1186055175

Check out our sponsor: DarkFusion Systems!

Use code "CPPOD" for $100 off of your computer build!

https://darkfusionsystems.com

Follow us on social media!

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/chordprogressionpodcast

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cppodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chordprogressionpodcast/

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/channel/UCqRKZCDMcFHIYbJaLQMfDbQ

Chord Progression Podcast (Spotify):

https://open.spotify.com/show/53XWPGrIUvgavKF5Fm6SLk

Chord Progression Podcast (Apple Podcast):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chord-progression-podcast-the-gateway-to-new-rock-and-metal-music/id1454876657

Chord Progression Podcast (Amazon): https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b8dad803-444c-4a73-8aa5-67b4fc43f4ba

Chord Progression Podcast (iHeart Radio):

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-chord-progression-70632531/

Podcast Webpage:

https://mysongoftheday.com/my-song-of-the-day-rock-2000-today/chord-progression-podcast/

Welcome: (0:00)

John from Crystal Lake is Here: (1:54)

The Vibes Going into Album Release: (3:30)

Dealing with a Different Vocalist in an Established Band: (4:49)

Crystal Lake's Live Reaction since John Joined: (11:20)

What Did We Just Plan?: (16:21)

Writing "The Weight Of Sound" Differently than Western Bands: (23:03)

The Shocker of "Coma Wave": (30:51)

Writing "The Weight Of Sound" like a Diary: (34:29)

The Non-Singles You Need to Listen To: (44:56)

What's Coming in 2026?: (50:53)

New Artists to Check Out: (52:27)

Kevin's Final Thought; The Diary Concept is an Incredible Thought: (56:16)