🎙️ Signals From Mars – Episode 435

Hour One: 2025 Hard Rock & Heavy Metal Recap

In Episode 435 of Signals From Mars, Victor is joined by longtime patrons Brad Dahl, Jeremy Weltman, and Ed Ferguson for a spoiler-free recap of hard rock and heavy metal in 2025.

This episode continues the revived Hour One format, focusing on conversation, reflection, and community rather than rankings, placements, or click-driven takes.

🔥 Episode Topics

🎸 Best-Selling Hard Rock & Metal Albums of 2025

The panel discusses albums that made a major commercial impact, exploring physical sales vs. streaming, genre perception, fan loyalty, and how success is measured today — without revealing rankings or outcomes.

🌍 Top-Grossing Hard Rock & Metal Tours

A spoiler-free look at touring trends in 2025, including legacy acts, stadium vs. arena strategies, touring economics, and how nostalgia and setlists shape the live experience.

📰 Biggest Hard Rock & Metal News Stories of 2025

Victor and the panel reflect on the year’s most talked-about developments, major announcements, and ongoing legacy band narratives. (Deaths are intentionally excluded from this segment.)

🕊️ Remembering Those We Lost

A respectful segment honoring influential artists who passed away in 2025, focusing on legacy, impact, and what these losses mean to the rock and metal community — without ranking or sensationalism.

❤️ Community & Reflection

Beyond albums and tours, this episode highlights why Signals From Mars exists: music as therapy, shared fan experiences, patron-driven discussion, and keeping the rock and metal community connected across generations.

🤘 Patron Shout-Outs

Thank you to the Signals From Mars Patrons who help keep the show independent and community-driven:

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

Many patrons actively participate in episodes like this one and help shape the show.

🔗 Connect with Signals From Mars

Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

#SignalsFromMars #HardRock #HeavyMetal #MetalPodcast #RockPodcast #MetalCommunity #YearInReview #MusicPodcast

🎸 Signals From Mars – Episode 434

October & November 2025 Hard Rock & Metal Albums Review (Livestream)

Episode 434 of Signals From Mars is a livestream-recorded episode featuring Victor M. Ruiz, joined by Jeremy and Ed, as they catch up on hard rock and heavy metal releases from October and November 2025.

Recorded on December 12, this episode continues the show’s long-standing mission: supporting new music and keeping the hard rock and metal scene alive. Rather than living only in the classics, Signals From Mars shines a light on both established artists and lesser-known bands releasing new material.

🎙️ What to Expect (Spoiler-Free)

Thoughtful discussion on the importance of discovering and supporting new music

Honest, conversational reactions to recent releases

A wide range of styles across hard rock and metal

Friendly debate, differing opinions, and shared enthusiasm

Personal listening habits and how albums grow over time

A relaxed livestream atmosphere with real fan interaction

No rankings, no spoilers — just genuine music conversation.

🤘 Why This Episode Matters

In Episode 434, Victor makes the case that new releases are essential to the future of hard rock and metal. Without continued support for current artists, the genre risks becoming frozen in time.

This episode is about exploration, curiosity, and keeping the genre moving forward, whether you’re into classic sounds, modern production, or underground discoveries.

🙌 Patron Shout-Outs

A huge thank you to the Signals From Mars Patrons for making episodes like this possible:

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

Your support keeps the conversation going 🤘

🔗 Connect with Signals From Mars

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

Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

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

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

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

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In Episode 432 of Signals From Mars, Victor welcomes Ulf “Uffe” Pettersson, vocalist of Swedish thrashers Mezzrow, to discuss the band’s powerful new album Embrace The Awakening. Uffe reflects on Sweden’s enduring metal culture, the impact of recent losses in the community—especially Thomas Lindberg of At The Gates—and how Mezzrow rediscovered their spark decades after disbanding.

Uffe explains how the band reunited in 2021 after finding an old recording they’d made with their late former guitarist. This led to recruiting guitarist Magnus Söderman and producer/guitarist Ronny Bjarnström, helping Mezzrow evolve while remaining rooted in Bay Area–influenced thrash. The band focused on making a concise, high-quality album, selecting eight of twelve written tracks for maximum impact. They avoided keyboards this time to create a more live, energetic thrash feel, while still blending in subtle influences from jazz, prog, and black metal.

Victor and Uffe discuss how the new songs fit alongside Mezzrow classics like “Frozen Soul,” how the band approaches setlist balance, and why intimate festivals such as Muskelrock remain personal favorites. Uffe also reacts to press comparisons to modern Testament and Coroner, a compliment he embraces proudly—especially after sharing a stage with Coroner in Bulgaria.

Mezzrow keeps fans updated through active social media, and the best way to support the band is by purchasing merch directly from their official shop.

🎙️ 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 Mezzrow:

Website: http://www.mezzrow.black/

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

🔗 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 431: Rich Knox (Danko Jones)

In Episode 431, Victor is joined by Rich Knox, drummer for Danko Jones, to talk about the band’s new album Leo Rising, his journey into the band, working with Marty Friedman, and what keeps the Danko Jones sound sharp after more than a dozen years behind the kit.

Rich shares stories about his audition for the band, touring with The Darkness and Black Stone Cherry, the differences between jazz and rock musicians, and how the band writes music while living in three different countries. He also reflects on pandemic-era livestreams, KISS fandom, and what makes a great rock song.

The conversation also dives into Rich’s passion for health, mindset, and fitness. Through his project Performers Health, he helps musicians stay healthy on and off the road. Learn more at: https://performershealth.com

Topics include:

• Making Leo Rising

• Collaborating with Marty Friedman

• The Danko Jones songwriting process

• Minimalist drumming philosophy

• Jazz vs. rock approaches

• Touring stories & festival moments

• Pandemic livestream memories

• Health, wellness & Performers Health

• Staying grounded as a touring musician

🎙️ 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/

🎵 Follow Danko Jones & Rich Knox:

Official Site: https://www.dankojones.com

Instagram: @danko_jones | @richknoxdrums

Performers Health: https://performershealth.com

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

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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

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#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:

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🎸 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

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