In this episode of The Influencers of Metal Podcast, Collin and Tom dive headfirst into the wild world of Guitar Hero II as part of their ongoing series determining which installment of the franchise is the most metal. This second part of the series explores the iconic 2006 game’s massive 98-song tracklist (on the Xbox 360 version), highlighting the significant uptick in metal representation compared to its predecessor. The hosts geek out over standout tracks like “Beast and the Harlot” by Avenged Sevenfold, as well as classics from Megadeth, Anthrax, Iron Maiden, and Lamb of God. They discuss the deeper meaning (and controversy) of Warrant’s “Cherry Pie,” laugh over the strange lyrical history of Suicidal Tendencies' “Institutionalized,” and wax nostalgic about the surprise inclusion of Spinal Tap. The episode also features love for Canadian representation through Rush’s “YYZ” and Protest the Hero’s “Bury the Hatchet,” as well as deep cuts from bands like The Sword, Shadows Fall, and Deathklok. The duo closes by reveling in how Guitar Hero II helped spotlight the metal genre during a period of mainstream resurgence, all while cracking jokes, going on wild tangents (including about haggis and Vegemite), and celebrating the game’s lasting cultural impact.

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