Signals From Mars – Episode 430: Condition Critical

In this episode of Signals From Mars, Victor welcomes Tony Barhoum from New Jersey thrashers Condition Critical! Tony discusses the band’s first new album in nine years, Degeneration Chamber, their connection to New Jersey’s thrash legacy, and how they balance old-school aggression with a modern sound.

The conversation touches on the influence of local legends like Overkill and DD Verni, the band’s DIY approach to recording, and how they shaped the album’s late-’80s spirit without sounding dated. Tony also talks about his gear setup, unexpected musical influences, frustrations with streaming platforms, and shares a favorite memory of Ace Frehley.

Topics discussed include:

• New Jersey thrash roots

• Mischief Night traditions

• Joining Condition Critical

• Why Extermination Plan and Degeneration Chamber are nine years apart

• Engineering and producing the new album

• Gear talk

• Surprising influences

• Remembering Ace Frehley

• Where to buy Degeneration Chamber to best support the band

🎧 Listen to or watch the full episode:

https://www.signalsfrommars.com/

💿 Support Condition Critical:

Bandcamp: https://conditioncritical.bandcamp.com/

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

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

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1dTcIKLfUXsCPB1HiizLHn

🎙️ Patron Shout-outs:

Steven Sailer, Steve Hoeker, Jeremy Weltman, Mike Jones, Brad Dahl, Mark Strigl, Gabriel Ruiz, Chris Vaglio, Metal Dan, Johan Ederström, Ed Ferguson, Anthony Mackey, Toni Espin, Sean Richmond.

🔗 Connect with Signals From Mars:

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

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

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

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

Merch: https://signals-from-mars.creator-spring.com/

Podcast Services: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/podcast-services/

Sponsorship: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/sponsorship/

Signals From Mars – Episode 429: Howling Giant

In this episode of Signals From Mars, Victor welcomes Tom Polzine and Sebastian Baltes from Nashville heavy rockers Howling Giant to discuss their new album Crucible & Ruin, released on Halloween.

The band talks about Nashville’s influence, how their sound has evolved since Glass Future, and how the addition of Adrian on keys expanded their creative scope. They share details about writing and recording Crucible & Ruin, favorite gear, and the band’s unique approach to putting their own spin on classic covers.

The discussion also reflects on the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath, and what Ozzy’s passing means to them as musicians and fans.

Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to Howling Giant, this episode offers a deep dive into their creative process, influences, and drive to make timeless, riff-heavy rock that transcends trends.

Topics Discussed:

• Nashville’s impact on Howling Giant’s sound

• The making of Crucible & Ruin

• How Glass Future inspired their next steps

• Gear talk and production choices

• Sebastian’s journey to joining the band

• Their take on cover songs

Connect with Howling Giant:

🌐 Website: https://www.howlinggiant.com/

🛒 Bandcamp: https://howlinggiant.bandcamp.com/

📲 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/howlinggiant/

Patron Shoutouts:

Steven Sailer, Steve Hoeker, Jeremy Weltman, Mike Jones, Brad Dahl, Mark Strigl, Gabriel Ruiz, Chris Vaglio, Metal Dan, Johan Ederström, Ed Ferguson, Anthony Mackey, Toni Espin, and Sean Richmond.

Connect with Signals From Mars:

🎧 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

🌐 Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/

🛒 Merch: https://signals-from-mars.creator-spring.com/

#SignalsFromMars, #HowlingGiant, #CrucibleAndRuin, #NashvilleRock, #StonerRock, #DoomMetal, #HeavyPsych, #ProgressiveMetal, #HardRock, #MetalPodcast, #MusicInterview, #OzzyOsbourne, #BlackSabbath, #NewMusic2025, #RockPodcast

🎃 Signals From Mars – Episode 428: The Halloween Countdown 👻

It’s spooky season on Signals From Mars! In this special Halloween episode, Victor is joined by Dr. Poison himself, Brad Dahl, as they unveil the results of the fan-voted Halloween Countdown — the top 10 bands most associated with Halloween according to the Signals From Mars community! 🧛‍♂️🦇

Listeners from around the world submitted their lists, considering everything from lyrics and imagery to music, atmosphere, and stage presence. Did your favorite creepy or horror-themed act make the list?

Join Victor and Brad as they:

Count down the top 10 Halloween-themed bands 🎶

Share stories and trivia about each artist 💀

Test their musical knowledge with Victor’s “Name That Band” audio challenge 🔊

Discuss Halloween memories, costumes, and rock’s spookiest imagery 🕸️

This episode celebrates everything we love about hard rock, heavy metal, and the eerie side of music that perfectly fits this time of year.

💬 Who’s on the list?

From horror icons to metal legends, these bands define the sound of Halloween. Stick around for surprises, laughter, and plenty of ghostly riffs!

Shout out to my Patrons:

Steven Sailer, Steve Hoeker, Jeremy Weltman, Mike Jones, Brad Dahl, Mark Strigl, Gabriel Ruiz, Chris Vaglio, Metal Dan, Johan Ederström, Ed Ferguson, Anthony Mackey, Toni Espin, and Sean Richmond.

🔗 Connect with us and be part of the conversation:

Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Visit our Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars

Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Follow on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Follow on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/

Merch store: https://signals-from-mars.creator-spring.com/

Podcast services: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/podcast-services/

Sponsorship: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/sponsorship/

#SignalsFromMars #HalloweenSpecial #HeavyMetal #HardRock #MetalPodcast #RockPodcast #HalloweenEpisode #MetalCommunity #RockCommunity #MusicLivestream #FanVoted #HalloweenVibes

🎸 Signals From Mars – Episode 427: Remembering Ace Frehley

In this emotional episode of Signals From Mars, we celebrate the life and legacy of Ace Frehley — the original Space Ace whose sound, style, and spirit helped define generations of rock fans.

From the very first riff that drew us in as kids, Ace became part of the soundtrack of our lives. His guitar tone, his voice, and his unmistakable feel shaped not only KISS but countless musicians who picked up an instrument because of him.

Host Victor M. Ruiz is joined by Brad Dahl (Yarg Metal) and Ed Ferguson for a heartfelt remembrance of Ace — sharing stories of discovery, favorite KISS moments, and the deep personal connections that made his music so meaningful.

Highlights include:

• 🧠 Reflections on Ace’s influence as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter — from Cold Gin and Shock Me to Fractured Mirror and beyond.
• 🗣️ Emotional stories of first hearing KISS Alive II and realizing Ace was the spark that started a lifetime love of rock.
• 🎤 Quotes from Mark Strigl and others who worked closely with Ace, remembering his authenticity and larger-than-life personality.
• 💬 Discussion of his final years, ongoing projects like Origins Vol. 3, and the bittersweet reality that we’ve reached the age where our heroes are starting to leave us.
• ⚡ Insight into how Ace’s feel, humor, and human touch made him more than just a guitar hero — he was real, and that’s what made him unforgettable.

This isn’t just a memorial. It’s a celebration of the man whose music carried us through good times, bad times, and everything in between.

Thank you, Ace Frehley. We love you, Space Ace — and we’ll miss you. 💫

🎸 Signals From Mars – Episode 426: US Vinyl Hall 🎸

In this episode, I take you through my latest vinyl haul — featuring albums, CDs, cassettes, and signed posters I picked up during my trip to the U.S. and a few classics rediscovered in my parents’ home. I also share some of the vinyl I’ve added to my collection here in Spain throughout the year.

This is a deep dive into collecting, nostalgia, and the stories behind the music that continues to shape my life. Whether you’re a vinyl junkie, a lifelong rocker, or just love hearing about the thrill of the hunt, this one’s for you.

Shout out to my Patrons:

Steven Sailer, Steve Hoeker, Jeremy Weltman, Mike Jones, Brad Dahl, Mark Strigl, Gabriel Ruiz, Chris Vaglio, Metal Dan, Johan Ederström, Ed Ferguson, Anthony Mackey, Toni Espin, and Sean Richmond.

#SignalsFromMars #VinylCommunity #NowSpinning

🔗 Connect with us and be part of the conversation:

Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Visit our Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars

Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Follow on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Follow on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/

Merch store: https://signals-from-mars.creator-spring.com/

Podcast services: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/podcast-services/

Sponsorship: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/sponsorship/

🎸 Signals From Mars – Episode 425 (Livestream Recording) 🎸

Join me live on October 3rd with Jeremy and Ed as we dig into the new hard rock and metal releases from September 2025. 🤘

We’ll be sharing our reactions, favorite tracks, and hot takes on the latest albums — from the big names to the hidden gems. Expect debate, surprises, and plenty of music talk!

💬 Jump into the live chat and let us know your thoughts on this summer’s releases — your input could shape the conversation in real time.

Don’t miss it — be part of the live show!

Shout out to my Patrons:

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive!

🔗 Connect with us and be part of the conversation:

Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Visit our Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars

Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Follow on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Follow on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/

Merch store: https://signals-from-mars.creator-spring.com/

Podcast services: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/podcast-services/

Sponsorship: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/sponsorship/

#SignalsFromMars #HardRock #MetalReleases #MetalHeads #RockCommunity #MusicTalk

In this episode of Signals From Mars, Victor is joined by Jeremy and Ed to review the new hard rock and metal album releases from July and August 2025. Together, they dive into standout records, hidden gems, and surprising letdowns across a wide spectrum of styles — from thrash and power metal to gothic and progressive sounds.

This is the first live episode in months, marking the start of Year 16 of the podcast. Expect passionate takes, varied perspectives, and plenty of music discovery.

Key Topics & Timestamps

• Kicking off Year 16 + July 2025 album highlights (00:02:30)
• Debating originality in modern metal vs. retro influences (00:16:10)
• Standout picks from mid-July releases, including supergroups and live albums (00:29:45)
• August 2025 highlights: technical death metal, gothic metal, and groove-heavy releases (01:05:20)
• Final thoughts on August’s closing week and recap of each host’s album of the week (01:55:40)

Actionable Takeaways for Listeners

1. Explore variety: Don’t limit yourself to one subgenre — standout releases this summer ranged from thrash to gothic to progressive metal.
2. Listen critically: Production quality, originality, and songwriting can make or break an album, even from established artists.
3. Check the underdogs: Independent and lesser-known bands like Mods, Caststrator, and Rust n’ Rage delivered fresh, unexpected quality.
4. Revisit legends: Alice Cooper, Halloween, and Deftones proved that veteran acts can still surprise with strong, relevant material.
5. Look for supergroups: Projects like Nefarious and Firstborne highlight how collaborations between seasoned musicians can produce unique results.
6. Stay open-minded: Some albums that didn’t initially appeal still sparked debate and earned respect on second listen.
7. Use album-of-the-week picks as a playlist starter — each host highlighted their top record for every week in July and August.

📌 Signals From Mars continues its mission to spotlight the best in new hard rock and metal. Whether you’re hunting for fresh riffs or curious about how the classics stack up today, this episode is a must-listen.

🔗 Follow & connect:

Patreon: https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Chat: https://linktr.ee/signalsfrommars

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

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

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

In this episode of Signals From Mars, I’m joined by Laura Donnelly, vocalist of the incredible Scottish doom metal band Kingwitch. We dive deep into the making of their latest album, III — their most powerful and emotionally resonant release yet.

Laura opens up about the five-year gap between albums, much of which was shaped by family life, creative resets, and the band’s commitment to authenticity. We explore how having a child and taking time away from the road gave them the space to refine their sound and make a record that truly represents where Kingwitch is today.

We also get into the DIY nature of the band — with Laura contributing graphic design and Jamie (guitarist/partner) handling production and mixing duties. You’ll hear stories about recording in their home studio, experimenting with fretless bass, and even using their child’s xylophone on the record!

💬 Topics discussed include:

• Why III took five years to release
• Recording at home and staying true to the band’s vision
• Laura’s growth as a vocalist after becoming a mother
• Using unconventional sounds in the studio (baby toys and cold-induced effects!)
• How Scottish landscapes, folklore, and mythology influence Kingwitch's music
• The role of artwork and symbolism (yin/yang, wolves, light/dark)
• Their return to the stage after a multi-year break
• Reflections on the recent Ozzy/Black Sabbath tribute show
• The power of doom metal to remain diverse, emotional, and expansive

Laura also shares thoughts on the challenges of being a parent and musician, why Kingwitch doesn’t chase trends, and how they're still proudly flying the flag for variety and dynamics in modern heavy music.

🎧 If you’re a fan of bands like Candlemass, Black Sabbath, or Dio, or just love passionate, honest conversations about metal and creativity, this episode is for you.

🛒 Support Kingwitch 🎵 Buy or stream Three:

• Listenable Records Bandcamp (digital, CD, vinyl)
• Kingwitch Bandcamp (CD, vinyl only)

📲 Follow Kingwitch

• Instagram: @kingwitchmetal
• Facebook: facebook.com/kingwitchmetal

🔗 Follow & connect:

Patreon: https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Chat: https://linktr.ee/signalsfrommars

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

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

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

In episode 422 of Signals From Mars, Victor welcomes back longtime friend and podcasting peer Joshua Toomey for a deep and candid conversation about the state of podcasting, legacy rock bands, and Toomey’s latest creative projects.

Toomey—co-host of The David Ellefson Podcast, host of Talk Toomey, and member of the reunited Primer 55—opens up about his podcasting evolution, lessons learned from past co-hosts and platforms (including Knotfest), and why his new partnership with Ellefson has been both rejuvenating and surreal.

The episode dives into:

🎧 The golden age of rock and metal podcasting 🎤 Blabbermouth clickbait, misunderstood interviews, and viral clip strategies 🤘 Toomey’s take on recent concerts by Ace Frehley, Quiet Riot, and Slaughter 🧠 Honest discussion on aging rock stars and what it’s like to watch your heroes struggle 🎸 The return of Primer 55 — how it happened, the lineup, and what fans can expect 💬 Memories of getting starstruck, being backstage, and finding lifelong friendships through music

Victor and Joshua reflect on 16+ years in the podcasting trenches, staying motivated through burnout, and how nostalgia and authenticity drive the hard rock and metal community forward.

Whether you’re a fan of KISS, Metallica, Faith No More, or underground legends like Primer 55, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and hard truths from two lifers who live and breathe music media.

📺 Watch or listen to the full episode: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/signals-from-mars-episode-422-joshua-toomey/

🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. 🌐 Visit signalsfrommars.com for more episodes, show archives, and extras. 📲 Follow us everywhere: Linktree

#JoshuaToomey #Primer55 #SignalsFromMars #DavidEllefson #HardRockPodcast #MetalPodcast #AceFrehley #QuietRiot #Slaughter #Metallica #KISStalk #PodcastingLife #MusicMedia #RockPodcast #Megadeth #BackToTheBeginning

🎙️ In this episode of Signals From Mars, Victor and Jeremy return with the second installment of “Vinyl Confessions,” diving deep into the records that mean the most to them. Whether it’s about musicianship, emotional connection, or unforgettable stories tied to each LP, this is more than just a show-and-tell — it’s a tribute to why vinyl still matters.

From iconic classics to unexpected favorites, each album comes with personal insights and memories that reflect decades of passionate music fandom. You’ll hear about record store finds, emotional connections to songs, and the joy of passing music down through generations.

💬 Expect laughs, stories, opinions, and a lot of heart as Victor and Jeremy crack open their shelves and invite you into their collections.

🔗 Follow & connect:

Patreon: https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Chat: https://linktr.ee/signalsfrommars

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

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

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