In this episode, we’re joined by Aaron Dalbec of Bane for a thoughtful conversation about growing up in the suburbs, staying true to yourself, and finding purpose beyond the band that defined so much of your life. Aaron opens up about carving out an identity outside of Bane, how the hardcore ethos still guides him, and why doing what you love—regardless of expectations—still matters. Whether you found Bane in the '90s or just stumbled across their music last week, this one’s about more than just...
Jul 23, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 667
In this episode, we sit down with Mark Rose, frontman of beloved Chicago rock band Spitalfield , for a deep dive into the legacy of the band, the evolution of the scene, and his continued passion for making music. Rising out of the early 2000s emo and pop-punk surge, Spitalfield became a cornerstone of the Chicago music community—earning a loyal fanbase through honest songwriting, relentless touring, and their time on Victory Records. Mark reflects on those formative years, the tight-knit energy...
Jul 17, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 666
In this episode, we sit down with Ken Susi—guitarist for metalcore pioneers Unearth and a key force behind the scenes at Fishman Music—for a conversation that pulls no punches. Ken talks about what it’s like to never quite fit the mold, how being a loud mouth has both helped and hurt him over the years, and why he wouldn’t have it any other way. From tour stories to gear talk, and moments of real self-reflection, Ken opens up about the things he’s most proud of after two decades in heavy music a...
Jul 09, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 665
In this episode, we’re joined by Jimmy Stadt, frontman of the beloved post-hardcore band Polar Bear Club, for a conversation that traces the band’s journey from the heart of Rochester, NY to stages around the world. Jimmy reflects on the band’s whirlwind early days—how they started fast, caught unexpected momentum, and found themselves navigating a rapidly changing landscape in the hardcore and punk scenes. We talk about the impact of coming up in a smaller city, what it meant to find a voice in...
Jul 02, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 664
In this episode, we’re joined by Troy Lusk, the founder and booking agent behind Tour Peachy , a boutique agency that’s redefining what it means to stay independent in the live music world. Troy walks us through his journey from fan to agent—breaking into the business the hard way, learning by doing, and eventually launching his own agency with a clear vision: keep it small, stay hands-on, and take the kind of risks that build real careers. Tour Peachy has grown steadily by focusing on meaningfu...
Jun 25, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 663
In this episode, we talk with Jensen Ward, guitarist/vocalist of the legendary powerviolence duo Iron Lung , about the band’s uncompromising path through the underground music world. Since forming in the early 2000s, Iron Lung has built a reputation for their blistering sound, minimalist lineup, and relentless work ethic—carving out a space where intensity and intention go hand in hand. Jensen dives into the origins of Iron Lung Records, and how the label has become more than just an outlet for ...
Jun 18, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 662
In this episode, we’re joined by Aaron Marsh from the beloved indie/emo band Copeland for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation. Aaron reflects on the band’s evolution, from their early days crafting sweeping, emotional records to becoming a mainstay in the scene known for their lush arrangements and deeply personal lyrics. He opens up about the whirlwind years when Copeland played nearly 600 shows in just two years, and how that pace shaped both the band’s identity and his own growth as an...
Jun 11, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 661
In this episode, we sit down with Maik Weichert, guitarist and founding member of the legendary German metal band Heaven Shall Burn , for a powerful conversation about longevity in extreme music, the stark contrasts between touring in the US and Europe, and the band's enduring commitment to veganism and activism. Maik shares insights from over two decades of pushing sonic and ideological boundaries—from maintaining creative passion after all these years, to navigating the physical and emotional ...
Jun 04, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 660
In this episode, Dan Campbell from The Wonder Years joins for a thoughtful, laid-back conversation about the band’s evolution over the years. He reflects on the idea of “passing the torch” — supporting younger artists and recognizing how the scene has shifted since TWY first got started. Dan also dives into the emotional weight of playing live shows and why those moments still matter so much to him and the band. A big part of the chat centers on moving past the early perception of The Wonder Yea...
May 28, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 659
In this episode, we’re joined by Luke Bentham, the magnetic frontman of The Dirty Nil , for a conversation that captures the raw spirit and driving force behind one of Canada’s most electrifying rock bands. Luke opens up about life on the road, the band’s unshakable chemistry, and how their no-compromise approach keeps their sound sharp and their performances unforgettable. We discuss the best veggie burger ever, the impact of the American Hardcore documentary on him and the John Reis influence ...
May 25, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 658
Today, I’m joined by Nick Brooks, the vocalist of It Dies Today and Frozen Ground . The band played a major role in shaping the early 2000s metalcore scene, with albums like The Caitiff Choir becoming staples of the genre. Nick’s voice and energy helped define their sound and we spent a lot of time together on the road in the early 2000's so it was logical, since their return, I had to have him on. We discuss Buffalo, identity and Dad’s playing hardcore. It's a riot. Listen to the Official Outbr...
May 15, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 657
For over two decades, Rocky Votolato has been a defining voice in the indie-folk and emo scenes, known for his raw lyricism, haunting melodies, and a body of work that’s both deeply personal and universally resonant. Now, the Seattle-based songwriter is entering a bold new chapter with Suzzallo , a collaborative project that marks a departure from his solo roots. Blending atmospheric textures with the emotional core he's known for, Suzzallo represents both a sonic evolution and a return to commu...
May 08, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 656
Is 90's alt rock mixed with nu-metal your thing? It should be and if you are looking for that fix, that's where Bleed comes in. I fell in love with these guys about a year or so ago when the algorithm lords blessed me and been curious about them ever since. Fortunately, my curiosity was satiated when I had this conversation with Ryan from said band. We discussed so many things including the Texas scene, the importance of Nu Metal and playing what you want. Their debut LP is out soon on 20 Buck S...
Apr 30, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 655
We all know midwest emo, but do we all know Giants Chair? If you don't, let this be a sign that you need to familiarize yourself now! The awesome label Spartan Records have re-released their seminal LP "Red & Clear" that's been out of print for years and to celebrate that, I have Scott Hobart who is the vocalist and guitarist of the band. We get into it all including how sick the bands packaging always was, their tight knit relationship with Giants Chair and the midwest music scene at large....
Apr 23, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 654
A tried and true screamo hero of mine, Billy Werner is on the podcast this week. He is the lead vocalist from the reunited Saetia and also sang for Hot Cross . He's a true gem of a human and happy to bring you this conversation in which we discuss his formative time at NYU, ABC No Rio and playing with Men's Recovery Project. Saetia is releasing their first new music since coming back on Deathwish, so make sure to order that post haste ! Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (executive pro...
Apr 16, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 653
SET THE STAGE, we have Marshall from The Warriors hanging out with us today on the show. The Warriors are from Tehachapi, CA and started playing together in 2002. They quickly captured the attention of many with their interesting blend of Rage Against the Machine meets 108 style hardcore and were extremely active throughout most of the 2000's. The band is back with a new LP, their first since 2019, entitled "Burn Yourself Alive" on Pure Noise and Marshall is a different person than he used to be...
Apr 09, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 652
Sean Ingram from Idle Heirs and Coalesce has made his triumphant return to the show almost 10 years later, and for good reason....his new band! You must listen to Idle Heirs if you haven't already as it's a beast of an LP and expands on Sean's vocal range in some incredible ways. We discuss new beginnings, old friends and being pushed to be creative. Hope you enjoy! Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (executive produced by yours truly) Weekly Recommendation Playlist Subscribe to the po...
Apr 02, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 651
I am thrilled to welcome an old friend of mine to the show this week, Patrick Piccolo from Caged View . Caged View is his new band that is really exceptional and about to release their debut EP on GGT Records ( pre-order that! ). Pat has been involved in punk and hardcore for many years and sang for bands like Beneath the Ashes and Embrace the End , both really important metalcore bands in the 2000's. Patrick also has a very interesting career as a sign painter! We discuss that and a whole lot m...
Mar 26, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 650
The best thing to come from Philly since the Eagles championship this year in football? Possibly, but I think Matt the vocalist of Gridiron would have to disagree as his beloved Eagles are the most special thing about the city. Joking aside, I am thrilled to welcome Matt on the podcast as he sings for PA hardcore band, Gridiron who are on the verge of releasing their second LP called "Poetry From Pain" and I had to chat with him about all things sports, hip hop and repping the city you are from....
Mar 19, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 649
George Hirsch. He's the frontperson of Blacklisted and his newest project, Staticlone is something you need to reckon with. I had him on the show many years ago and it provided a very thought provoking conversation and this time around is no different. He's a very introspective and thoughtful interview subject and we cover a ton of ground including his songwriting process, working in construction and the modern state of hardcore. Let's go! Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (executive ...
Mar 12, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 648
THIS NEEDS TO BE ONE OF YOUR NEW FAVORITE BANDS, OUTLANDER . Now that we have that out of the way, we welcome Joe House who plays guitar and sings in one of the best bummer rock bands out there. I had to get to know the band a bit more, so I invited him on the podcast and we did just that. We dug into the UK metalcore scene, how they write 8 minute long songs and being a "best kept secret". Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (executive produced by yours truly) Weekly Recommendation Pla...
Mar 05, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 647
There's nothing more satisfying for me personally to welcome a guest on the show who's musical output I was impacted by at an early age and between Outspoken and the label he ran called Conversion Records, did just that. Dennis Remsing played drums for Outspoken and just started a new band called Minus Numbers with ex-bandmates in Drift Again. We discuss his early days getting into hardcore, why he stays attached and involved as well as starting a record label/distro. Some great lore in here, so...
Feb 26, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 646
We have a damn fine episode today with one of the Bay Area greats, Mr Casey Watson. He's been a mainstay in the punk/hardcore scene in Northern California by playing in bands like Yaphet Koto, Look Back and Laugh , The Old Firm Casuals and filled in with bands like Cro-Mags and Good Clean Fun. Simply put, the dude has done A LOT and I was excited to have him on. We discussed what it's like playing in so many bands, improvising and being a road dog. Plus, he loves cacti, so we talk about that a b...
Feb 19, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 645
South Florida Straight Edge Metal is fully represented this week in the shape of Cosmo Vidussi from Contention . They released one of my favorite records from last year called "Artillery From Heaven" that is influenced by all of the late 90's stuff we all love, but updates it so it's not only a trip down nostalgia lane. Cosmo was a great chat about all things Florida and it's unique tax laws, being into core as an adult and of course, straight edge. Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (...
Feb 12, 2025•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 644
Today we have the epitome of a "lifer" in the form of Josh James, the guitarist from Stick To Your Guns . He's also played in a ton of other bands like Evergreen Terrace, Casey Jones, 18 Visions and much more but he's on today to speak about his time in STYG as well as dig into Fat Wreck Chords punk, thriving in chaos and removing ego from what your art is (as much as one can). Josh is an open and honest dude so this discussion was a breeze and I hope you enjoy! Listen to the Official Outbreak P...
Feb 05, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 643
THIS IS A BONUS EPISODE FROM THE OUTBREAK PODCAST. YOU SHOULD FOLLOW AND LISTEN TO IT BECAUSE YOU LIKE 100 WORDS...OR EVEN IF YOU DON'T YOU MAY LIKE THE VIBE OF THAT MORE. One of the more inspiring front people in hardcore, Pat Flynn, is on the show this week. He sings for Fiddlehead and Have Heart. We discuss his dream "community center" idea as well as passing the torch to a younger generation and a whole lot more. Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (executive produced by yours truly...
Feb 03, 2025•38 min•Ep. 781
Two dudes, one legendary band... Integrity . I was incredibly happy to welcome Dwid and Aaron from the incredibly important, vital and influential band when they made their appearance at New England Metal and Hardcore Festival this past year. We discussed a lot of things throughout the bands history including the inception of the skull logo, their reputation and quest for always pushing the band to do different things. A must listen. Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (executive produc...
Jan 29, 2025•46 min•Ep. 642
Returning to the podcast for the first time in over 7 years, we have the internet's best friend Brenden Murphy from Counterparts and End. He's a lovely chat and it was great catching up with him about the bands new EP, K-Pop and what's lamer - Zyn or Vaping? All jokes aside, this is a great episode and we dig into all the things. Listen to the Official Outbreak Podcast here (executive produced by yours truly) Weekly Recommendation Playlist Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube Rockabilia sells you...
Jan 22, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 641
FIrst and foremost, if you are in the greater Los Angeles area my heart and soul are with you. I live 45 minutes south and it's soul crushing. Visit this link for assistance and help where you can, financially/physically or otherwise. That being said, we all need to keep on keeping on with our lives to the best that we can and that's exactly what I am trying to do. Here's another great live discussion we had at the New England Metal and Hardcore Festival with two bands that have very little to d...
Jan 15, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 640
Today we throw you a bit of a curveball as usually we speak about punk/hardcore/metal and related DIY type artists but in this episode we cover something called, Nu Metal. Don't let that put you off because Kevin Palmer from TrustCompany isn't like the others...his band rules. TrustCompany came out at a time where every major label was jumping on this craze and TrustCompany got thrust into the limelight with a major label deal, radio play, MTV spins and everything but what makes this story uniqu...
Jan 08, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 639
