The Hook Rocks!

Formed in 2007 in Sutherland, IA by brothers Zach and Blake Bedsaul the band Saul offers metal fans across the globe hard melodic riffs and meaningful lyrics. I sat down with Blake to discuss their upcoming album "Rise As Equals" as well as their creative process, influences, and what's next for the band. The album is filled with great songs Saul fans will enjoy and open the door for new fans who are looking for their metal fix. Please enjoy the episode!

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The first nine months of 2020 are in the books and once again several great rock albums have been released. I welcome back Chris Corradetti and we break down our favorites of the year so far for the months of July through September. Debut releases and music from our favorites are once again spotlighted. Which ones have you listened to? Which ones will make our lists! Please enjoy the episode.

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Having had the pleasure of seeing Tyler Bryant and The Shakedown live...twice, I can say for certain they are the goods. Without a doubt, they are among the bands leading the charge with new rock music. Armed with great songs, incredible players, and an electric stage presence the band reaches new heights on their forthcoming record "Pressure". I talk with Tyler Bryant about the new album and the recording experience during the pandemic, as well their plans once things return to "normal". Please enjoy the episode!

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Guitar legend Eddie Van Halen passed away this past Tuesday after a long battle with cancer. Upon hearing the news I immediately remembered my 8-year-old self discovering the wonder of Van Halen while hearing Eruption for the first time. It changed my life. Throughout my youth their music always connected with me and it remains a part of the soundtrack for my life. This episode was a struggle but I hope many of you find it helpful as I did to speak about it as we keep his music and memory alive.

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The U.K's new wave of rock music continues to be a force to be reckoned with, building momentum with a huge selection of new bands. Doomsday Outlaw is right in the middle of the fray. With music filled with great songwriting, killer hooks, and the need to keep evolving as artists this is a band you want to hear. I had the pleasure of chatting with bassist Indy Chanda about their history, current music, and where they're headed. Please enjoy this episode!

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2020 is the year everything had to be put on pause. From movies to music, from album release dates to bands going out on tour this year will be forever remembered as the "lost year". As far as new rock music goes the momentum that was building going into 2020 for new bands and artists is also a victim of circumstance. U.K's music journalist Anne Estella and I discuss the impact this year will have on new music as well as the importance of supporting new rock 'n' roll today and into the future. Please enjoy the episode!

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With a career spanning two decades Joel Hoekstra is regarded as one of rock 'n' rolls hardest working guitar players. Being a member of Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Whitesnake while touring with Cher has given Joel the ability to showcase his tremendous talent to a wide-ranging audience. However, it doesn't stop there! Our discussion covers all of these things plus the many side projects he's involved with and his passion for teaching guitar. Please enjoy the episode!

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For the past several years rock music has been brewing a feast of incredible new bands. The new scene is global and musicians from one corner of the globe to the next are proving to be up to the task of carrying the legacy torch of rock n roll. The band Black Smoke Trigger from New Zealand is part of the new wave of rock enlisting legendary producer Michael Wagener and guitar player Mick Mars to be part of their debut EP "Set It Off." Guitarist Charlie Wallace and I chat about the EP and the process of recording it and what the future holds for the band. Please enjoy the episode.

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2020 is the year we would all like to forget. The things we know and love like sporting events, vacations, and concerts have been postponed or canceled in the wake of the Covid19 pandemic. For live music lovers, small clubs and theatres are or on the verge of closing because of the loss of revenue. The impact this has on the communities surrounding these venues is devastating. Jordan Grobe from the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), the group behind the Save our Stages campaign sits down with Jay Scott to discuss the current bill in congress, seeking aide for these venues and what the outlook is for live music if it's not approved. Please enjoy the episode!

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We welcome back one of our favorite guests Joey Cassata to discuss his latest book "Wrestling With Joeylicious". A Rocky meets Porky's adventure about an amateur wrestler pursuing his dream while his imaginary Pro Wrestling friends guide his journey. Many of you know Joey from the band ZO2, the television show Z Rock and his first book, the autobiography "Start With a Dream". You don't need to be a wrestling fan to enjoy this story and the fun conversation he and I had about the book and our similar childhoods.

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