The conversation focused on Wüstenberg's unique blend of musical influences and their experience performing at Wacken Open Air. The discussion explored band member backgrounds, genre definitions, the challenges and joys of live performance, and the importance of breaking out of musical boxes. Stories about musical upbringings, cross-genre influences, and festival adventures rounded out a lively and candid episode. The group also touched on the impact of social media, fan engagement, and the changing landscape of live music.Main Topics Covered

• The pronunciation and meaning behind the band name "Wüstenberg" and its international implications (00:24)
• Navigating genre identity and the resistance to being boxed in (06:33)
• Musical backgrounds of band members, from classical to metal to folk traditions (04:08, 05:04, 20:08)
• The story of how the band formed and its recruitment process (04:08)
• Experiences at Wacken festival, including guerrilla marketing and stage performances (25:00)
• Blending influences: Irish music, metal, classical, and blues-rock influences (07:06)
• The emotional and therapeutic importance of music in the lives of the band members (28:42)
• Adventures with instruments—banjo shredding, violin tales, and gear mishaps (03:04, 23:07)
• Language, cultural identity, and humor within the band (15:07, 17:48)
• Music industry challenges: social media, algorithms, and fan connection (41:16)
• The significance of live music and supporting local musicians (43:07)

Key Discussions & Stories

• Pronunciation Problems:
  One concept discussed was the complexity of spelling and pronouncing "Wüstenberg" for international fans and event organizers, including the use of the German umlaut and its effect on branding (00:55).
• Genre Fluidity:
  A key theme that emerged was the struggle and resistance to fit into genre boxes. The group described themselves as “folk rock” for convenience, but emphasized their individuality and broad influences: “Everyone puts their DNA in it, and it is what it is in the end, and it's up to others to decide what they think where to put it” (09:48).
• Recruitment & Chemistry:
  The discussion explored how the band came together through friendships, musical connections, and referrals via a vocal coach, with the lead songwriter seeking new creative avenues (04:08).
• Instrument Crossovers:
  Several points were raised, including the story of how a self-described metalhead adopted the banjo, blending Irish traditional music with rock techniques and jokes about turning down offers from the Dropkick Murphys for this band (05:07).
• Festival Highlights:
  The band recounted their unique guerrilla marketing tactics at Wacken—playing music on a cart to rally attendees for their early set—and expressed joy at drawing a lively crowd as a non-metal band on a mostly metal bill (25:00).
• Personal Journeys in Music:
  Each band member shared their own musical origin story, highlighting moments when they knew music was their calling—from coping with loss through song, to choosing music over professional careers, to being driven by an irresistible, soul-deep need to play (28:46).
• Stage Mishaps and Metal Attitude:
  Stories of onstage and festival misadventures included a classical violin striking concrete during a performance—deemed “very metal”—and good-natured ribbing about drinking habits (23:42, 38:36).
• Fan Connection & Social Media:
  The group discussed the limitations of algorithms and the importance of direct connection via their newsletter and live performances, encouraging fans to support bands by attending shows and buying merch (41:16).

Notable Quotes

• “I think we're like a Swiss knife, you know. You can have us on mainstream festivals, you can have us on metal festivals, and we will leave our mark” (09:02)
• “I don't know one metalhead that only likes metal. Not one.” (13:17)
• “Music's a transfer of emotion, and when I see bands that you, you can tell they're not into it up there, how are you going to be into it?” (27:16)
• “It's an absolute necessity to pick up her violin and to play. It nurtures her soul.” (35:54)
• “Cherish all the differences, cherish all the influences that could inspire you.” (14:25)
• “Let's stay connected because that's, I think, a very human thing to do.” (43:24)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Find Wüstenberg Online:
  • Spelling in international platforms: WUESTENBERG_music
  • Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube – Search: “Wüstenberg” or “WUESTENBERG” (40:32)
  • Band newsletter (direct sign-up recommended for latest updates)
• Upcoming Gigs:
  • Next show: Festival in the Azores, Portugal (Santa Maria island) (41:46)
• Festival References:
  • Wacken Open Air – Germany
  • Renaissance and Celtic Festivals
  • Mention of Hellfest (France) (15:21)
• Artist References:
  • Lindsay Stirling
  • Motörhead
  • Dropkick Murphys
  • Jethro Tull/Ian Anderson
  • Metallica
  • AC/DC, The Dubliners, Larkin Poe (07:32)
• Beer Discussion:
  • Praise for German beer (Spaten), disparagement of Budweiser (39:35)

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In this episode, Pipeman interviews members of German rock band Kärbholz, live from the iconic Wacken Open Air festival. The conversation covers the emotional power of music, their personal journeys, the meaning behind their songs, and how music can transcend cultural and political barriers. The episode also features heartfelt stories about fan connections, the healing role of music, and the true community spirit among metalheads.Main Topics Covered

• Experiencing Wacken Open Air as performers
• Personal beginnings and influences in music
• Music as emotional therapy for artists and fans alike
• Mosh pits: misunderstood spaces of catharsis and connection
• The transformative power and meaning of music
• Fan stories illustrating the impact of Kärbholz’s songs
• The community and inclusivity of metal culture
• Handling politics and truth in songwriting
• Promoting Kärbholz’s new album and merchandise

Key Discussions & StoriesThe Wacken Experience

• Band members recount the honor and excitement of performing at Wacken, calling it a dream come true for most rock and metal acts 00:35.
• Describes Wacken as the “cherry on the top” for their musical journey 01:30.

Beginnings in Music

• One member shares picking up the guitar at 14 and learning Nirvana, realizing the inspiring power in playing music from his idols 01:57.
• Another describes starting with music education in kindergarten and eventually finding emotional connection and talent with drums 02:27.

Music as Emotional Therapy

• Both guests and Pipeman reflect on how music allows both artists and listeners to process and release emotions 03:11.
• Pipeman shares a personal story of using a Slayer mosh pit to work through grief after losing his grandson, emphasizing music’s healing quality 04:27.

Songs that Save Lives

• Kärbholz members discuss their track “Mutmacher” and its profound effect on fans, including a story about a young woman who said the song saved her life during a suicidal crisis 05:51.

The Real Spirit of Metalheads

• Contrast between the tough appearance of metal fans and the actual warmth, emotional openness, and sense of community at festivals like Wacken 08:27.
• Examples of playful circle pits, regardless of music style, highlighting the inclusive and fun-loving nature of the scene 09:39.

Music Beyond Politics

• Discussion about keeping politics out of music to foster unity, while acknowledging the importance of encouraging listeners to think for themselves and remain open-minded 11:31 and 12:49.

On Truth and Perspective

• The pitfalls of living in ideological bubbles and the value of open, diverse debate and personal experience in forming one’s worldview 14:01.

Notable Quotes

• “[Playing at Wacken] is like the cherry on top of the ice cream that is our amazing life playing music and having fun all the time.” 01:30
• “Music is the best therapy for you, the artist, and for me, the listener.” 03:12
• “How much more can you achieve with doing stupid music? You saved someone’s life.” 06:27
• “We are one race, the human race. We don’t have to all be the same.” 10:40
• “We don’t want to teach people, because we don’t know the truth... My truth is not your truth or his truth.” 11:43
• “Educate yourself. Just know what you’re talking about, and then you can make your decisions.” 13:25

Resources and Links Mentioned

• Kärbholz’s New Album: Sturmzieh auf (releases September 18, 2026)
  • Available on Spotify, Amazon, and all streaming platforms 15:14
• Merchandise:
  • Website: shop.kerpholz.de (ships worldwide, including USA and Canada) 15:22
• Connect with Kärbholz:
  • Spotify, Amazon, and their own online shop 15:14

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In this episode, Pipeman sits down at Wacken Open Air Festival with Christy from Dirty Shirt and members of the band to discuss their experiences playing the legendary festival, their evolving journey in the European metal scene, the vibrancy of Romania’s underground music culture, their upcoming album featuring high-profile guests, and insights into the challenges of touring internationally.Main Topics Covered

• Dirty Shirt’s history and experiences at Wacken Open Air (00:28, 00:41)
• Evolution of the European metal festival scene and sense of community (02:22)
• New Dirty Shirt album details, special guest features, and release timeline (03:01, 03:30)
• Collaborations with Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) and Jared Gomes (Hed PE) (03:30, 03:54)
• Touring challenges outside Europe, especially in the US (04:53, 05:00)
• The revival of nu metal and resurgence of bands like Limp Bizkit in Europe (06:17, 06:39)
• Perspectives on the metal scene in Romania versus Italy and other European countries (08:52, 08:58)
• Building community among Dirty Shirt fans on social media (08:24, 08:33)
• Travel stories and plans for future tours (10:25, 11:31)

Key Discussions & StoriesPlaying Wacken: Dirty Shirt’s Journey

• Band’s third appearance at Wacken since 2014, crediting the festival for helping keep them together as a group (00:37, 00:57)
• Reflections on Wacken's growth from 800 attendees to a global phenomenon (02:47)

New Music & Notable Collaborations

• Upcoming album set for release next year; third album for Christy with the band (03:02, 03:16)
• Collaboration with Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), appearing—and playing flute—on their next single (03:30, 03:44)
• Additional guest: Jared Gomes (“Jahred”) from Hed PE, delivering powerful vocals on a vampire-themed track (03:58, 04:02)

Touring & Metal Scenes Around the World

• Obstacles to touring the US, including visas and costs, despite extensive touring across 17 European countries (04:53, 05:07)
• Strong revival of nu metal; bands like System of a Down, Linkin Park, and Limp Bizkit enjoying massive stadium returns in Europe (06:25, 06:39)
• Dirty Shirt members express excitement over the vibrant and supportive Romanian metal scene compared to other European countries (08:52, 09:25, 09:53)

Community & Fan Engagement

• Active Dirty Shirt Facebook community: fans posting photos wearing their shirts from festivals worldwide (08:24, 08:41)
• Encouragement for new fans, especially US listeners, to connect via Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and check tour dates when traveling to Europe (11:13, 11:31)

Notable Quotes

• “Wacken… it’s more than a festival, it’s just, it’s a concept, it’s a… thing to be something I like.” (02:10)
• “For example, Wacken, they started the first edition with 800 people. So multiply by 1,000.” (02:47)
• “[Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull] will be on a song… that will be released in September. It’ll be the first single of the new album.” (03:44)
• “We have a community made on Facebook and we are very active there. So right now at the festivals in Romania, you see a lot of Dirty Shirt t-shirts there.” (08:24)
• “While in Romania there is a huge, huge place for underground bands and do-it-yourself activities and concert organizations.” (09:13)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Dirty Shirt Online:
  • Facebook: Search “Dirty Shirt”
  • Instagram: Search “Dirty Shirt”
  • YouTube: “Dirty Shirt” – features recent, well-produced live gigs (11:39)
• Join the Band’s Community: Participate in sharing pictures and experiences from gigs worldwide on their Facebook group (08:24)
• Tour Information: For European festivals and tour dates, check their social media platforms (11:27)

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In this episode, Pipeman sits down with Val from The Hardkiss at Wacken Open Air to discuss the band's journey, their latest album "Greyhound," the challenges and uniqueness of making music during wartime in Ukraine, and their genre-blending sound. The conversation explores the evolution of The Hardkiss, the importance of originality in music, and the role that culture and adversity play in shaping artistic identity. The episode wraps with insights on resilience, creativity, and how fans can support the band.Main Topics Covered

• Debut at Wacken Open Air
  • The Hardkiss performing their first full set at the festival (00:34).
  • Reflections on playing an acoustic set in Wacken Church (00:44).
• The Creative Process & Musical Evolution
  • Comparison between intimate acoustic performances and festival crowds (01:13).
  • The evolution from commercial sounds to heavier, more experimental styles in the new album "Greyhound" (02:31).
• Blending Genres & Influences
  • Difficulty in categorizing The Hardkiss into a single genre (03:02).
  • The band as a blend of metal, jazz, soul, and rock influences (03:39).
  • Discussion on modern music trends and the importance of finding a unique sound (04:21).
• Stories of Musical Beginnings
  • How both Val and the other band member started in music and formed The Hardkiss (11:07).
• Ukrainian Music Scene & Performing During War
  • The impact of the conflict in Ukraine on daily life and the music scene (13:03).
  • Perseverance and courage of Ukrainian artists continuing their craft despite adversity (14:23).
• Visual Identity & Stage Presence
  • The importance of visuals, music videos, and onstage persona, especially the recurring "grey suit" from the "Greyhound" album (07:46).
• Fan Engagement & Support
  • The significance of merchandise sales and how fans can support the band (16:01).

Key Discussions & Stories

• Wacken Experiences
  • Memories of intimate acoustic sets and the unique atmosphere of performing in a church (00:44).
  • Enjoyment of both small, intimate performances and large festival settings (01:31).
• Unique Sound
  • The Hardkiss's refusal to be pigeonholed into a single music genre.
  • Val discusses the heavier experimentation on "Greyhound" with more guitar and synth influence (02:31).
  • The role of backgrounds: Val's metal influence and the other member’s jazz & soul roots blending to form the band's distinct sound (03:39).
• Trivia & Music Influences
  • Fun trivia about Dave Mustaine of Megadeth and the jazz influences in classic metal guitar (05:35).
• Resilience Amid Conflict
  • Ongoing performances and creative projects in Ukraine despite frequent attacks (14:10).
  • TV shows being filmed underground as a symbol of perseverance (14:10).
• Personal Stories
  • Shared backgrounds, musical upbringings, and the spark that led to forming The Hardkiss (11:07).
  • Navigating the European music scene after success in Ukraine (12:19).

Notable Quotes

• "You cannot tell what genre is The Hardkiss actually... we're somewhere in the middle of genres, and this album shows that a lot." (03:02)
• "Life is going on somehow. It's horrible." (15:00)
• "Keep safe, enjoy your life, and listen to good music. And kiss from The Hardkiss." (17:13)
• "We are grateful to everyone who supports the right side." (15:50)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Official Website:
  • thehardkiss.com — for music, merch, tour information (16:20)
• Social Media & Streaming:
  • Instagram, YouTube, TikTok (search "The Hardkiss") for music videos and updates (16:33)
• Upcoming Tours:
  • European tour dates (November) and upcoming North American and Canadian dates—details on the website (16:46)

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In this high-energy episode, Pipeman sits down with Philippa and Linnea from Thunder Mother at Wacken, the world’s biggest metal festival. The conversation covers everything from band transformations, wild backstage stories, and the Swedish experience, to inside info on Thunder Mother’s upcoming music—including playful banter and deep appreciation for their dedicated fans.Main Topics Covered

• Thunder Mother’s lineup changes and band dynamics
• Backstage stories: Ice plunges, reindeer meals, and Arctic adventures
• Insights into Swedish culture and music scene
• Thunder Mother’s show at Wacken and their connection with fans
• Upcoming album announcements and new single reveal
• Fun with song inspirations and banter about band life
• Parenthood, being musicians and mothers on the road
• The importance of having a strong fanbase in Germany
• Plans for future tours and dreams of performing in the USA
• Humorous talk about band image, make-up, and "bimba boost"

Key Discussions & Stories

• Thunder Mother’s “No Rules” Attitude:
  • Discussing their band’s name and alter ego (“Motherfuckers”), and how their vibe isn’t always typically Swedish (00:35-01:00).
• Wild Band Stories:
  • Early gig with the secret name “Motherfuckers” (01:26).
  • Band member ice plunging in the Arctic Ocean after a show in North Norway (04:11).
  • Eating reindeer (“Rudolph”) and funny misunderstandings about Swedish food and culture (02:54).
• Festival Experiences:
  • Playing at Wacken in extreme heat, crowd surfing, and seeing thousands of dedicated fans (06:15).
  • Investing in their own stage pyro for an unforgettable performance (09:49).
• Band’s Journey & COVID-Era Touring:
  • Describing “old school” touring during COVID—playing on a fire truck when venues were closed (08:15).
• Upcoming Releases:
  • First public reveal of their next album due in February 2027, titled "Mothers of Thunder" (09:24).
  • Teasing their next single, "Bimbo Boost," coming September 2026 (10:41).
• On Being Musicians & Parents:
  • Their kids' reactions to their music, and balancing band life with motherhood (12:51).
• Playful Banter and Album Secrets:
  • Discussion around a song called "Super Orgasm" and the fun, edgy sense of humor that runs through their music and personalities (14:26).

Notable Quotes

• "Give two beers to a Swedish person and they stop being reserved. Linnea"
• "We want to be there for you to entertain. We are the people band. Philippa"
• "Now I can tell everyone I swim in the Arctic. Philippa"
• "It was like a Metallica crowd out there… it was not easy to get up front. Pipeman"
• "Our next album—releasing February 2027—is the best we’ve ever done. Philippa"
• "You have to hear our next album coming out in 2027 in February. Philippa"
• "We’re bimbos, you need your own boat. Linnea"

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Thunder Mother Official Channels:
  • Fans encouraged to connect online for pre-saving and pre-buying the new album and merch (10:25).
• Upcoming Releases:
  • Album: "Mothers of Thunder" – February 2027
  • Single: "Bimbo Boost" – September 2026
  • "Super Orgasm" (future track teased for next album)
• Radio Promotion:
  • Pipeman offers to spin Thunder Mother on W4CY rotation (08:52).

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In this energetic episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman sits down with Mick and Herb from Visions of Atlantis at the legendary Wacken Open Air Festival. The conversation dives into the band’s history with Wacken, the evolution of festival experiences for artists, their exciting video game collaboration, coping with intense festival weather, the origins of their nautical-pirate concept, and the importance of community in music and beyond.Main Topics Covered

• Playing at Wacken Open Air Festival
  • Visions of Atlantis’ history and memories performing at Wacken
  • Comparisons to other major European festivals like Hellfest
• Festival Organization & Artist Experience
  • How well Wacken and Hellfest care for artists’ technical and logistical needs
  • Tales of festival challenges, especially weather
• Life on Tour and Coping with Conditions
  • Dealing with extreme heat and intense show schedules
  • The importance of artist downtime for performance
• Video Games and Band Collaborations
  • Visions of Atlantis collaboration with Saltatio Mortis for the Assassin’s Creed IV Remake soundtrack
  • Band members’ personal gaming histories and preferences
• The Pirate Theme & Band Identity
  • How Visions of Atlantis fully embraced the pirate/nautical concept in their storytelling and visual craft
  • Creating a sense of escape and community through music
• Tour Announcement & Fan Engagement
  • Upcoming US tour details, with special emphasis on VIP experiences featuring acoustic sets
  • How fans can connect with the band

Key Discussions & Stories

• The band’s first ever show at Wacken was in 2007. Their most recent show was in 2022, for which they released a live album, "Pirates Over Wacken" 01:07.
• Both Mick and Herb praise the evolving artist experience at Wacken, citing improvements in organization and technical preparation, such as advance radio frequency assignments for wireless equipment 04:03.
• Tales of battling brutal summer heat at both Wacken and Hellfest, with moments where the stage attire almost caused Mick to faint 06:08.
• Mick and Herb reminisce about the band’s gradual embrace of their pirate storytelling, culminating in their album "Pirates" and a community philosophy of freedom and escape 17:32.
• The hosts swap weather horror stories from US festivals like Welcome to Rockville, highlighting the unpredictable festival environment 08:30.
• A quirky anecdote about real-life pirates in Florida near Orlando gives the band a laugh and a touch of caution 15:20.

Notable Quotes

• “Every year it steps up. This is the festival in Europe, together with Hellfest.” – Herb 02:12
• “As an artist here, you feel really welcome, really well taken care of. It's always a pleasure to be here.” – Mick 03:05
• “If you have to find out that stuff as an artist when you get on, that's too much stress to have to do a show.” – Pipeman 04:41
• “Hellfest was hell. That's where the name comes from... I think I was on the verge to pass out.” – Herb 06:00
• “We really take people by the hand, bring them for 1.5 hours... to a different reality. That's why we dress up like this.” – Herb 19:28
• “It's so easy nowadays. Just get on any social network, type Visions of Atlantis, and either us or one of our fan clubs will pop up.” – Herb 20:33

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Visions of Atlantis – Pirates Over Wacken (Live Album)
  • Available on Spotify and streaming platforms 00:58
• Collaboration Track
  • Reckless Sailor (metal version of “Drunken Sailor”) with Saltatio Mortis for Assassin's Creed IV Remake 11:13
• Official Band Links
  • Website: visionsofatlantis.at21:58
  • Social: Search “Visions of Atlantis” on all major platforms
• US Tour & VIP Upgrades
  • Acoustic set included in VIP package; tour dates and info on the website 21:09

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In this episode of Podcast, Pipeman interviews Mike and Michael from Born Broken at the legendary Wacken Festival. They dive into the Canadian metal scene, their journey to performing at Wacken, the evolution of metal festivals, band stories from the past, and what community in metal means today. They also reminisce about metal’s roots, the changing music landscape, and the band’s latest accomplishments.Main Topics Covered

• The journey to Wacken and the travel chaos (00:37)
• The scale, history, and magic of Wacken Festival (01:21)
• The experience of playing on the Headbanger stage (02:38)
• Stage size and energy: Club gigs vs. festival crowds (03:36)
• Old school vs. spectacle: Keeping metal authentic (04:42)
• The Canadian metal and rock legacy, including major bands (06:51)
• U.S. Festival and heavy music history (08:42)
• Canadian bands’ path to global and domestic recognition (09:32)
• The Wacken Metal Battle journey and band drama (13:11)
• Community, empathy, and the ethos of the metal scene (16:22)
• Albums as experiences vs. today’s streaming culture (20:50)
• Merch, tape trading, and connecting with fans (19:01)

Key Discussions & StoriesGetting to Wacken

• Pipeman and Michael share their grueling travel experiences, sprinting through huge airports with heavy gear to reach the festival (00:37).
• The hosts reflect on the sheer size and legendary status of Wacken, with its 35-year history and loyal global following (01:21).

On Stage at Wacken

• Mike describes the adrenaline rush and freedom of performing on a large stage, contrasting it with cramped club gigs (02:38), highlighting the energy exchange with the crowd.
• Michael discusses adjusting the live show for smaller venues and the importance of vibe and authenticity over flashy effects (03:37).

Evolution of Metal Community

• Discussion about how metal was always about the music, not the look—albums, liner notes, and tape trading as part of the experience (05:38).
• Pipeman recounts firsthand stories from the LA and Bay Area metal scene, including the first shows of Slayer and Metallica (06:31).

Canadian Rock & Metal Roots

• Mike and Michael list foundational Canadian metal acts and their influence, including Voivod, Razor, Anvil, Exciter, Triumph, Rush, April Wine, and Mahogany Rush (06:51, 09:05).
• Discussion about Canadian bands needing international acclaim before being celebrated at home (09:32).

Festival Memories

• Pipeman draws parallels between Wacken and historic festivals like the US Festival, sharing anecdotes from Van Halen and his personal crowd experiences (10:55).
• Nostalgic reflections on the wildness and different standards of past metal eras (12:08).

Born Broken’s Path to Wacken

• The band recounts entering the Wacken Metal Battle, dealing with internal challenges, and their eventual victory leading to a surreal appearance at Wacken (13:11).
• Emphasis on humility and the community aspect of metal as they progress in their career (14:18).

Metal as Community & Empathy

• Pipeman, Mike, and Michael discuss the camaraderie among metalheads, the supportive vibe of the mosh pit, and the potential for music to bring the world together (15:31).
• Mike describes speaking to the Wacken crowd about being one community and the inspiration behind their song "Age of Anger" (16:22).

Merch & Fan Connection

• The band promotes their merch, especially a limited edition zombie Mountie shirt created for Wacken (19:15), along with ways for fans to get their music and gear.
• Emphasis on DIY ethic—sending physical albums, tape trading nostalgia, and authentic fan engagement (20:08).

Albums vs. Streaming

• Discussion on how albums were once immersive experiences, now replaced by a single/track-focused streaming culture (20:50).
• Mike shares how Born Broken still structures albums as journeys, encouraging listeners to discover hidden influences and Easter eggs (22:22).

Notable Quotes

• “When you have a small stage that you can't do that, it almost cramps your playing, right?” — Pipeman (03:29)
• “It's more about the attitude and the experience… we just go out there and kill, you know?” — Michael (04:26)
• “That's what metalheads are. We're like a community. It doesn't matter where we're from.” — Mike (17:14)
• “I still have the Metallica demo tape that was probably recorded over 50 times. You can't even tell what it says.” — Pipeman (20:30)
• “People ask, how do you put songs together? We still put our songs together like an experience. Every track leads into the next for a reason.” — Mike (20:54)
• “If you can pick out the influences in our songs and hit us up… I’ll send you some free merch.” — Mike (23:08)

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Born Broken Merch:
  • Main shop: loudtracks.com
  • Music platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Bandcamp
  • Social media: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter (“X”)
  • Direct contact: DM on socials for albums/merch
• Bands Referenced: Voivod, Anvil, Exciter, Triumph, Rush, April Wine, Mahogany Rush, Metallica, Slayer, Winger, Skid Row, Cryptopsy, Kataklysm, DBC, Razor, Bryan Adams, Shania Twain
• Album Mentioned: Am I Invisible (Born Broken)

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In this episode of The Adventures of Pipeman on W4CY Radio, Pipeman sits down with Phantom and Rod Usher of The Other at Wacken festival. The conversation dives into The Other's journey to the festival stage, the significance of their band name, horror punk influences, iconic live show memories, upcoming music, and the interplay between punk and metal subcultures. Expect personal stories, some music history trivia, and passionate discussions about legendary bands like The Misfits, Iron Maiden, and Mötley Crüe.Main Topics Covered

• The story behind The Other’s band name and merch challenges
• Getting to play Wacken and what the festival means
• Phantom’s motivation for joining the band
• Upcoming shows, Halloween events, and new releases
• Deep roots and influences: The Misfits, Danzig, Iron Maiden, KISS, and more
• Punk vs. metal: bridging genres and scenes
• Memorable concert stories from the LA Sunset Strip and beyond
• Notable trivia and music history moments

Key Discussions & StoriesBand Name & Merch

• Rod Usher shares that the name "The Other" is conversation-starting and sometimes confusing for new listeners 00:28.
• The band’s merch can be bought at Wacken or online at theother.de, but shipping to the US is currently tricky due to high costs 01:31.

Playing Wacken

• Rod Usher recounts how they landed their first Wacken show by directly emailing the event founder 02:12.
• Phantom says joining The Other was partially motivated by a wish to play Wacken: "This has been on my wish list" 03:21.

Band’s Upcoming Plans

• Annual Halloween show is their highlight 04:15.
• Planning a double headliner tour in Europe with a former Misfits musician; new album coming soon 04:23.
• Compilation album "Other Dimensions" releasing October 30th, featuring originals and covers 09:57.
• Plans for a new album with hopes for a Halloween release next year, plus top 10 album chart success 24:05.

Horror Punk & Iconic Influence

• Rod Usher and Phantom reflect on how The Misfits, Danzig, Typo Negative, The Damned, AFI, and others shaped their style 04:50, 24:45.
• Discussion of The Misfits’ impact on both music and the punk/metal crossover 06:25.
• Favorite Misfits songs: "Skulls" (Rod Usher), "Dig Up Her Bones" (Phantom), and "TV Casualty" (Pipe Man) 07:58-08:27.

Punk & Metal Crossover

• Panel discusses how punk and metal scenes used to clash, only to blend later — with stories from LA and legendary bands like Metallica, Slayer, Suicidal Tendencies, DRI, and Possessed 11:04-14:14.
• Rod Usher: “Our second show ever was supporting DRI.” 12:29

Memorable Live Shows & Early Influences

• Pipeman recounts seeing Mötley Crüe as a horror punk band before their glam transformation, hanging out with Mick Mars and Lemmy at 13, and his first ever concert (Beatlemania at Madison Square Garden) 16:06-18:15.
• Phantom shares his first live show: an Iron Maiden tribute featuring Helloween’s drummer 18:57.
• KISS influence: first album owned by Pipeman, tattoos by Rod Usher 21:05.

Notable Quotes

• Rod Usher: “Once you’re part of the Wacken family, it is an awesome community.” 02:45
• Phantom: “One of the reasons why I joined is I wanted to play Wacken. It’s always been on my wish list.” 03:21
• Pipeman: “If they don’t buy your merch, they can’t listen to my show.” 01:11
• Rod Usher on beginnings: “We started as a Misfits cover band for fun… then we just slipped our originals in, and people didn’t notice — they thought it was a Misfits song.” 09:13
• Pipeman on punk/metal unity: “Band together, morons, instead of fighting each other.” 11:30
• Rod Usher: “If you like The Misfits, Danzig, Typo, AFI… you’ll probably like us.” 24:45

Resources & Links Mentioned

• The Other Merch & Band Info: theother.de
• Upcoming album: "Other Dimensions," releasing October 30th
• Socials and general band connections found via official website

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Are raw food warnings exaggerated?

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Pythonic - Set You Free 

Pythonic is a Canadian death-groove metal band hailing from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Drawing inspiration from groove and death metal giants like Lamb of God, The Black Dahlia Murder, Morbid Angel, and Devildriver, the band blends crushing riffs with unrelenting energy. Striving for the tightest live sound possible while delivering an electrifying stage presence, Pythonic is truly a sonic force to be reckoned with. Over the years, the band has seen many lineup changes, but two core members have remained constant. Lead guitarist Ryan Hunter, the resident guitar prodigy, shreds some of the grooviest riffs and most blistering solos. Rhythm guitarist Vincent Kohut brings a machine-like precision, combining thick low-end riffing with razor-sharp tremolo picking.

The 2025 and beyond lineup is the tightest and most prolific in Pythonic’s history:

Jayden Warriner – skin-slapping powerhouse on drums

Morgan Warriner – a vocalist with a beastly range that will leave your head spinning

Max Hiske – the latest addition, locking down the low end and slappin’ da bass with fury

Together, this lineup delivers the full-throttle sonic assault that defines Pythonic.

Morgan Warriner transitioned from bass to lead vocals, writing and learning a full setlist of songs ahead of Pythonic’s first show of 2025—Serenade Metal Fest in Edmonton, held in February.

During the early months of the year, Alex Conley filled in on bass. After Alex left to pursue school, he was replaced by bass phenom Max Hiske. By the end of June, Max played his first show with Pythonic, which also marked Morgan’s third performance as lead vocalist.

Just one week later, we had the honor of opening for local legends Lava Goat and international heavy-hitters 200 Stab Wounds.

Pythonic’s current lineup is a force to be reckoned with.


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Click Here to Subscribe for PERKS, BONUS Content & FREE GIVEWAYS!

Follow @pipemanradio on all socials & Pipeman Radio Requests & Info at www.linktr.ee/pipemanradio

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Download, Rate & Review the Podcast at The Adventures of Pipeman, Pipeman Radio, Talk 4 Media, iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & All Podcast Apps.