SeanGeek and FastFret Podcast

Todd is still away, so the Fretless party keeps rolling. Sean is joined again by Duane and Dan from Mixtapes From Hell and by Tracy, the voice behind Voicesbytracy.

Sean has a mystery track for the panel that you won’t find anywhere else. There’s more Pass or Go, with songs from far across the ocean and a band from much closer to home. One of the songs has a Montreal connection with a story behind it, and the band’s lineup has everybody’s attention. Plus, a few news items from the music world and the friends who keep the show going.

Press play, see who gets the last laugh, and find out whether Todd is ever going to hear the end of it.

Visit our guests:

Mixtapes From Hell: https://shows.acast.com/mixtapes-from-hell

Voicesbytracy: https://www.voicesbytracy.com/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Todd is out this week, so Sean goes “fretless” for a night of music, movies and mayhem. Joining him are Duane and Dan from Mixtapes From Hell, plus returning guest Tracy, the voice behind Voicesbytracy.

There’s a game of Pass or Go, a movie soundtrack moment nobody saw coming, and a voice-acting challenge that gets out of hand fast. Plus, one band from Winnipeg that you really should be hearing.

Press play and find out why Todd is going to hear about this for a long time.

Visit our guests:

Mixtapes From Hell: https://shows.acast.com/mixtapes-from-hell

Voicesbytracy: https://www.voicesbytracy.com/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Takeaways:

• We kick off Part One with Dan and Duane from Mixtapes From Hell and Tracy joining us, setting a playful, music-first vibe that mixes jokes, banter, and genuine friendship.
• I explain the show's 'Pass or Go' game where we play obscure tracks and decide whether to celebrate them or mercilessly roast them.
• We dive into voice acting with Tracy sharing practical advice about authenticity, script reads, and treating each line like an acting choice, not just audio.
• I highlight how we champion under-the-radar music — from Winnipeg's Moontan to other indie bands — and why finding new music now requires proactive searching.
• We have a hilarious live improv bit where everyone says 'let's get it on' in different characters, demonstrating how voice, intent, and timing change meaning.
• I reflect on career inspiration: Tracy went full-time into voice acting later in life, showing there's no fixed timeline for creative success.
• We also geek out over movie and music culture — from High Fidelity quotes and Jack Black's covers to discussions about discovering music without MTV or radio help.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• 92 Citi FM
• Amazon
• Disney
• NASA
• Siri
• Alexa
• Bandcamp
• YouTube
• MTV
• VH1
• Spotify

Part Two of the sit-down with Darryl Barr picks up right where things left off — more music, more stories, and a lot more getting to know the man before his book officially hits shelves.

An update from the family — A quick, lighthearted check-in on a running storyline listeners have been asking about. Let's just say it involves a cast and a very tough mom.

A mentor, a trailer, and a music education — Sean tells the story of the guy who completely changed how he listens to music, and a chance reunion two decades in the making at a recent show.

How Darryl found the drums — From painting a band's backdrop as a kid to ending up behind the kit himself, Darryl walks through exactly how it all started — including the song that got him there.

High school flashbacks — Mullets, talent shows, and a side-by-side photo comparison that has the guys cracking up. You'll want to see this one for yourselves.

A mystery track — The guys play something that lands in their inbox and challenge each other to guess what — or who — they're listening to. Let's just say the answer is a surprise.

Wrapping up with the book — One last reminder on where to find Darryl's debut book and how to grab a copy before it's officially out.

Support the show on Patreon — tiers available for early access, Discord perks, and a say in future topics and music picks. Thanks to this episode's supporters for keeping the lights on.

Catch Part One if you missed it, and keep an eye out for Darryl's book, officially landing soon.

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

We tear into Part Two with Darryl Barr by nerding out about the little things that make creative life delicious — like the single best comic-book how-to book one of us hoards like a dragon hoards comics. I gab about learning to write comics from oddball script examples, clipping newspaper strips like a cartoon archaeologist, and how writing for comics is its own slippery beast (think screenplay meets haiku with capes). Darryl chimes in with stories and the vibe stays warm and jokey — like buddies riffing in a garage, except with fewer oil stains and more plot beats. Then we slide into music school: the tale of Jeff, the unassuming metal evangelist who turned my musical palate inside-out. I tell how he brought in a subwoofer and educated me on riffs, classical nods inside metal, and how tastes evolve (first beer, then full appreciation — hop pun intended). We relive Revocation’s 20th-anniversary set, play a chunk of "Dismantle the Dictator," and nerd out over doubled solos, triple vocal trade-offs, and a bassist who sounds like Primus on steroids. It’s loud, affectionate, and full of the kind of detail that makes musicians grin — and non-musicians suspiciously curious.

Takeaways:

• We nerded out about comic-book writing versus movie scripts — I explained panel pacing, economical dialogue, and how visual storytelling changes everything compared to a screenplay.
• I gave an update on Mom's Fight Club mishap: she broke two bones, she's got a cast, and we're all convinced she's more pissed-off than injured.
• I told the story of Jeff teaching me metal: he broke songs down like tasting hops, pointing out classical roots, riffs, and drum nuances so I learned to appreciate complexity.
• We talked about live-show culture at heavy concerts — despite moshing and pits, I observed people helping fallen fans, returning glasses, and looking after one another like a bizarre but caring family.
• I raved about Revocation's 20th anniversary set: complex harmonized guitars, three vocalists trading harsh and melodic parts, and why bands that lift up smaller acts deserve our applause.
• We shared hilarious backstage and touring anecdotes — from Anne Murray's surprisingly wild crew to mom doing surprisingly well in Fight Club — proving real life beats expectations.
• I explained how punk scenes evolved into metal lineups, using Suicidal Tendencies and Robert Trujillo as examples of how bands retool personnel to change sound and reach new audiences.
• We pitched the Patreon perks with a wink: early episodes, unedited video, Discord influence, and the chance to suggest songs or topics so listeners can literally shape the show.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Pepsi
• Pepsi Power Hour
• MuchMusic
• Headbangers Ball
• MTV
• Amazon.ca
• Amazon.com
• Patreon
• Discord
• YouTube
• Jack Daniel's
• Riot Fest
• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Part One of a two-part sit-down with Darryl Barr — drummer, artist, retired forensic psych hospital veteran, and now, first-time author. The guys get to know the man behind the nickname, dig into the story behind his brand-new book, and spin a few tracks from his band along the way.

Getting to know Darryl — Before he was "Double Barrel," he was a kid with a pencil who almost had a very different career path. The guys hear how art, drumming, and a 25-year career in one of the most unusual work environments imaginable all fit into one story.

A term you'll want explained — What exactly is a "red dot," and why did Darryl build his entire book around it? You'll have to listen to find out — trust us, it's worth it.

The book — Darryl's debut book is officially out, written entirely from memory after decades on the job. The guys talk about where the idea came from, how it finally came together, and where you can grab a copy.

Music from the man himself — Darryl's also the drummer for a band called Lovable Misfits, and the guys spin a couple of tracks live on the show — with some pretty strong opinions on the production.

Todd's shed saga continues — A quick check-in on Todd's ongoing DIY project, and why he's paying for it physically this week.

Support the show on Patreon and help us keep bringing on authors, musicians, and artists you should know about.

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Sean flies solo this week for a deep dive into two of Marvel's biggest '80s crossover events: Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars (1984) and Secret Wars II (1985). The toy deal that started it all, the editorial gamble that followed, and why one series is beloved while the other gets dragged — Sean's got opinions on all of it.

• A little show history — Sean traces the origin of the "Sean Geek" persona back to the Rum Powered Reviews channel and the Meet the Geeks webcomic.
• Why Secret Wars exists at all — The surprising, toy-driven business deal behind Marvel's first-ever massive crossover event, and the company Marvel was racing to compete with.
• The making of a maxi-series — Jim Shooter's hands-on approach as writer and editor-in-chief, the art team behind it, and why pulling together every major Marvel hero and villain was a bigger challenge than anyone expected.
• The highs and the misfires — Sean breaks down which characters got great moments, which got badly mishandled, and one lasting piece of Spider-Man costume history that came out of the series.
• Listener mailbag — Comic collector Tony Griggs sounds off on tie-in bloat, and School of Hip host Heath McCoy gives his unfiltered take on both series and how they stack up against a certain rival crossover from DC.
• Secret Wars II: ambition meets chaos — The sequel's infamous tie-in sprawl, its unconventional lead character, and why some of the best storytelling happened everywhere except the main series.
• Chris Claremont and John Byrne save the day — How a couple of Marvel's best writers turned a difficult crossover assignment into some genuinely great comics in their own titles.
• The Sean Geek rewrite — If he'd been in the room, here's how Sean would have restructured Secret Wars II from the ground up.
• Looking ahead — A teaser for a future episode on the very different, much more acclaimed 2015 Secret Wars event.
• Patreon thank-yous — Shoutouts to supporters including Ronald George Moore (Manitoba Money Shot Podcast), Sam Thompson (Witch Police Radio), Ruby (Living Through Extinction), Tony Griggs, Corey Morissette, Kevin Brown, Danny Pabst, Duane, and new patron Andrew (Head Full of Radio / Soupful of Radio).

• Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars (1984)
• Secret Wars II (1985) and its many tie-in issues across the Marvel line
• Secret Wars (2015)
• Crisis on Infinite Earths (DC, mentioned for comparison)

Become a Patreon supporter for early episode access, video versions, and the chance to pitch topics for future episodes.

Have thoughts on Secret Wars or Secret Wars II? Let Sean know — your comment might get read on a future episode.

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Hands down, Secret Wars I was the pop-culture sandbox where Marvel dumped its coolest toys and biggest egos and watched fireworks happen — and I gush about it like a kid in a candy aisle. I walk you through the origin story of the event: how Jim Shooter and Marvel teamed with Mattel to essentially build a 12-issue crossover whose primary job was to sell action figures. I explain what a "maxi-series" is (think a limited-run event with a defined beginning and end) and why having so many heavy-hitter characters in one place was innovative and risky back in 1984. I share my own personal memory of hunting down issues in Moncton, trading comics with friends, and the way certain character moments — like the Black Costume for Spider-Man, Galactus' motivations, and the Molecule Man’s surprising emotional arc — stuck with me years later. Then I shift into critique mode: the good, the awkward, and the “what were they thinking?” moments. I point out how the series sold like gangbusters yet received mixed critical response because of uneven writing and jarring characterizations (ahem, Rhodey/Rhodes dialogue and odd turns for Colossus). I also explain why flashbacks were necessary in an era before the internet and ubiquitous comic shops, but how they became cumbersome in collected reads. Throughout, I zoom in on toy-line decisions, artistic highs (Mike Zeck, Bob Layton moments) and lows, and why Secret Wars I mattered beyond nostalgia — it changed how publishers approached crossover storytelling and merchandising, for better and worse. I throw in a few jokes about cheap action-figure bodies and He-Man deja vu, because nostalgia deserves a wink.

Takeaways:

• I learned the original Secret Wars (1984) was essentially a big Marvel–Mattel marketing move — a 12‑issue maxi‑series built to sell action figures, where the comic was a massive hit but the toy line hilariously flopped.
• We talk about how Secret Wars essentially invented the modern crossover concept: jimmy‑rubbing top selling heroes and villains together into one eventful maxi‑series that changed how comics were published and marketed thereafter.
• I’ll be honest — a lot of the character work felt inconsistent: questionable dialogue (looking at you, Rhodey), weird relationship choices like Colossus cheating, and endless flashbacks that made the story feel clunkier than it needed to be.
• Secret Wars II suffered from execution problems: the Beyonder was given human form and the plot got fragmented across roughly 35 tie‑in issues, meaning crucial scenes happened off‑panel and readers needed a PhD in crossovers to follow along.
• I absolutely loved Owen Reiss (Molecule Man) — his emotional growth and romance with Volcana are genuinely touching highlights, showing how grounding character moments can rescue a sprawling, messy event.
• We point out that some tie‑ins actually worked — great creators like Chris Claremont (X‑Men) and John Byrne (Fantastic Four) wove the Beyonder into their own arcs smartly, proving tie‑ins can shine when handled with purpose.
• If I were running the event, I’d slow the roll: hire a dedicated writer/artist team, keep the core emotional beats in the main series (not scattered off‑panel), and avoid tie‑in overload so the story reads like an event, not a scavenger hunt.

The Metal Shop crew is back in the trailer for another round of chaos, "corporate sabotage," and a serious amount of great metal. This one's got a little bit of everything — a shady origin story involving a certain rival podcast's Discord, a spicy round of "who gets voted off Mixtapes From Hell," and a deep, genre-hopping stretch of music picks that swing from old-school thrash to power metal to horror-movie soundtracks. Oh, and there's a dice game.

The "hack" — The guys kick things off with a bit about how they came into possession of some very classified intel from a certain other podcast's server. What did they find? You'll have to listen.

Corporate rivalry escalates — Metal Shop continues its ongoing feud with "that other show," including a few threats aimed squarely at the competition and their crew.

A round of "Who Gets Voted Off Mixtapes From Hell?" — The guys play a song blind and debate whether it's good enough to save someone's spot on a certain other podcast's roster. Spoiler: not everyone agrees.

A deep, genre-spanning music run — From an unexpected cover track to a Montreal band that almost broke big in the '80s, from thrash metal legends to power metal royalty to a horror-soundtrack curveball at the very end — this episode's music picks are all over the map in the best way.

A dice game decides the last song — When you can't decide what to play, you let chance make the call. The crew rolls for it.

(Track order as played)

1. Carcass — "Keep on Rotting in the Free World" (Swan Song, 1995)
2. Sword — "Life on the Sharp Edge"
3. Cinderella — "One for Rock and Roll" (Heartbreak Station)
4. Sacrifice — a cut from Volume 6
5. Witchforce — "Witchcraft"
6. Luca Turilli's Rhapsody — "Ascending to Infinity" (title track)
7. Fulci — "Splatter Fatality"

• Support Metal Shop directly on Patreon — just make sure your comment makes it clear the money's for Metal Shop, not "that other show."

Heath is back this week, and we're diving headfirst into the ultimate showdown: DC versus Marvel! We're not just talking about superheroes; we're taking a stroll down memory lane, reminiscing about our childhood favorites and how they shaped our geeky selves. From the campy antics of the 60s Batman to the epic battles of the Avengers, we explore what makes these universes so compelling. We'll even throw in some playful banter about the missteps and triumphs of both comic giants, plus a dash of nostalgia for those iconic cartoons. So whether you're Team Cap or Team Supes, grab your favorite snack and get comfy because we're about to geek out and have a blast!

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Takeaways:

• This episode dives deep into the epic showdown between DC and Marvel, exploring their rich histories and iconic characters.
• Listeners will get a fun rundown of superhero adaptations in film, including critical opinions on recent releases and classics alike.
• The hosts share personal stories and anecdotes that reveal their lifelong love for comic book characters and the nostalgia surrounding them.
• Expect a lively discussion on the impact of fandom and how it shapes perceptions of superhero movies in today’s pop culture scene.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• DC
• Marvel
• Harvey
• Archie Comics
• Spider Man
• Captain America
• Batman
• Wonder Woman
• Dark Knight
• Supergirl
• Ghost Rider
• Blade
• Man Thing
• Moon Knight
• The Incredible Hulk
• Iron Man
• The Fantastic Four
• The X Men
• Teen Titans
• The Avengers
• Daredevil
• Jessica Jones
• Luke Cage
• Punisher
• Sam Raimi
• Kiss
• Volume
• Chocolate Bunnies from Hell
• Patreon
• Netflix

Studio tour & intro chaos — The usual chaotic cold open, with Sean showing off pieces of his new backdrop — including a superhero helmet you'll have to see to believe.

Remembering Dolly Parton and Frank Beard — The crew pays tribute to two icons lost in the same week, trading Dolly memories and making the case that ZZ Top's Frank Beard deserves way more respect as a drummer than he usually gets. Naturally, it turns into a round of Pass or Go — which ZZ Top deep cut will the guys spin, and will it get a Pass or a Go?

Old house stories — Todd digs up a couple of genuinely wild stories from childhood homes, including one urban legend that'll make you think twice about home renovations.

Gym talk & injury recovery — Todd heads back to the gym for the first time in a while, and Sean makes his pitch for DDP Yoga as the wrestling world's not-so-secret recovery weapon. How'd Todd's first session go, and is Sean actually sold on DDP? You'll have to listen.

Setting up the big topic — The episode wraps with the crew spinning their "Wheel of Topics" and landing on something that ends up needing its own episode entirely...

Check out the Patreon tier structure to support the show — thanks to this episode's supporters: Ron Moore, Sam Thompson, Ruby, Tony Griggs, Corey Morrissette, Kevin Brown, Danny Paps, and Dwayne Allman.

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Kevin and Corey are back for Part Two with hosts Sean and Todd, diving into the hilariously chaotic world of music and pop culture. This episode is all about the wild ride of Milli Vanilli and the shady practices behind their rise and fall in the music industry. We explore how image sometimes trumps talent, and the absurdity of a world where looks can get you further than your vocal cords. With plenty of laughs, playful banter, and even a few jabs at the music biz, we cover everything from the duo’s lip-syncing scandal to the surprising cultural expectations in Portugal’s music scene. So grab your headphones, kick back, and join us for a fun-filled discussion that promises to keep you entertained and maybe even a little enlightened!

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive deep into the Milli Vanilli scandal and how their story reflects the music industry's obsession with image over talent.
• The hosts share hilarious anecdotes about their personal experiences with karaoke, emphasizing the wild and unpredictable nature of live performances.
• We discuss the cultural differences in music performances, especially how Portugal's fado tradition demands live singing, contrasting with modern pop's reliance on backing tracks.
• There's a lighthearted debate about the impact of AI on music today and whether listeners truly care about who the artist is anymore.

Corey and Kevin, the podcast royalty of the Boneless Podcast network, are joining us for a raucous episode that’s all about the ups and downs of navigating life as podcasters, with a side of hilarious banter! From parking garage struggles to the trials of dealing with bananas and fobs, we dive deep into the everyday hiccups that keep us all laughing. We also chat about the fine line between live performances and backing tracks, and how today’s music scene is evolving—sometimes with a little too much help from technology. Expect plenty of playful digs, a few laughs at our own expense, and insightful takes on what it really means to be "live" in the age of digital music. So grab your favorite snack, kick back, and let’s roll!

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/seangeekpodcast

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/seangeekpodcast

We are a part of the Boneless Podcast Network: https://bonelesspodcasting.com/

Merch:

Tee Public: https://www.teepublic.com/seangeekpodcast

Red Bubble: https://www.redbubble.com/people/seangeekpodcast/shop

@seangeekpodcast on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

Takeaways:

• Corey and Kevin bring their podcasting wisdom, highlighting the importance of authenticity in music and performance.
• We explore the evolution of music technology, discussing how digital platforms have changed the music landscape and artist accessibility.
• The crew dives into the world of unique instruments and one-man bands, celebrating creativity in music making.
• Humor and camaraderie shine as our guests share stories about their podcasting journeys and experiences in the industry.
• Listeners gain insight into the dynamics of live performances versus recorded tracks, touching on the ethics of using backing tracks.
• The episode wraps up with a light-hearted debate on favorite songs and artists, showcasing the fun side of music discussions.