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-imaging 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!