The Heavy Galaxy Show

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, John and Matt sit down with MEZZOA guitarist and vocalist Nacho Maldonado for an in-depth conversation about his journey through the San Diego heavy rock scene.Nacho shares his beginnings as an aspiring musician during the explosive 90s underground rock era, where raw, gritty sounds shaped what would become MEZZOA’s signature style. He dives into his early work with his first band, MAGDALENE, and how that project evolved into MEZZOA, with several tracks originally crafted during that time still living on in the band’s current setlist.We explore MEZZOA’s latest album, TON618, and how Nacho leaned hard into heavier influences, fusing traditional metal and hardcore elements to create an aggressive, textured sound. He opens up about the creative process behind the record, how the band's sound has matured, and what fans can expect from their newest material.The conversation also covers the upcoming 5th edition of Nacho's SoCal Heavy Jam Festival, set to take place this October. Nacho talks about the festival’s growth, its roots in the local scene, and how it has become a destination for fans of heavy underground music. If you're into honest, deep dives into music, artistry, and DIY culture, this is an episode you can’t miss.Catch this wide-ranging conversation about music, history, passion, and community in one of the most dynamic underground scenes in the U.S.#mezzoa #nachomaldonado #heavygalaxyshow #socalmetal #undergroundrock #stonerrock #magdalene #heavymusic #ton618 #metalinterview #hardcoremetal #diyscene #metalbands #socalmusic #rockinterview #metalpodcast #stonermetal #heavyrockscene #sandiegomusic #metalcommunityNOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to see if their opinions are true or not.Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

Rob Traynor of BLACK WATER RISING joins Matt & John on The Heavy Galaxy Show for a deep dive into his journey through the world of heavy rock. From growing up in Brooklyn and frequenting the legendary L'Amour club, to crossing paths and befriending members of bands like Type O Negative, Rob shares the roots that shaped his gritty, riff-heavy sound. He opens up about his early 2000's band Dust To Dust, the influence of Peter Steele, and how that relationship helped guide his career.Rob gives us the inside story on Dust To Dust’s rise and fall—highlighting what it's like to be signed to a major label and the business clashes that followed. He explains how those experiences led to the formation of BLACK WATER RISING and how the band carved out its space in the heavy rock scene. With support from Sirius XM Octane’s Jose Mangin, the band gained momentum fast, being offered and landing deals and pushing forward with a powerful debut.We dig into BLACK WATER RISING's songwriting process, including Rob’s lyrical themes and inspirations behind tracks off their latest album 'The Edge'. Rob also talks about how the band navigates the modern music industry, where rock and metal are often sidelined by younger audiences. He breaks down what it takes to stay relevant and independent in today’s fast-changing music landscape.Rob shares details on his collaborations with Brooklyn metal legend Johnny Kelly and longtime New Jersey riff-maestro Dan Lorenzo and their band PATRIARCHS IN BLACK. We talk about upcoming possible physical releases for 'The Edge', the band's plans for future live performances, and whats in store for BLACK WATER RISING for 2025' and beyond. If you’re into hard rock history, raw stories from the scene, and honest insight into today’s music world, don’t miss this one.

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, Matt & John sit down with iconic frontman Mark Hennessy for a no-holds-barred look at his 30+ year journey in rock music. From his early days in the unlikely grunge hub of Lawrence, KS, to becoming a rising force in the heavy rock scene with Godzillionaire, Mark opens up like never before.We dive into Paw’s explosive entry into the 90s rock world as one of the few non-Seattle bands to grab major label attention. Mark talks about the moment Paw caught the ears of Butch Vig at Smart Studios and how that led to their breakout deal with A&M Records. The band’s debut album Dragline and its MTV smash hit “Jessie” are explored in depth—especially the personal story behind the song's emotional lyrics.Mark doesn’t hold back when it comes to Paw’s follow-up record Death to Traitors, expressing raw honesty about his disappointment in the album’s direction and the fallout that followed, including their drop from A&M. He also shares wild tour stories involving Monster Magnet, tense nights with TESLA, and an unforgettable evening with TOOL’s Maynard James Keenan.The conversation shifts to Mark’s time at MTV with The Jenny McCarthy Show, as well as the creative projects that bridged the gap between Paw and Godzillionaire. The guys dig into the birth of Godzillionaire, a band that has reignited Mark’s passion and found a loyal global following with their 2025 album Diminishing Returns.In a powerful and emotional close, Mark talks about being a Stage 4 cancer survivor, his current health battles, and what lies ahead. This episode is raw, real, and unforgettable. If you care about music, resilience, or just great storytelling, this is one you need to watch.#grungerock #heavymusic #pawband #markhennessy #godzillionaire #dragline #deathtotraitors #90srock #mtvclassics #butchvig #toolband #maynardjameskeenan #monsterband #teslaband #altrocklegends #heavyriff #rockinterview #cancersurvivor #rockdocumentary #undergroundmusicNOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to see if their opinions are true or not.Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, filmmaker Matt Hartnett (LIFERS) and Vegas Rock Revolution's John Gist welcome guitar virtuoso Dario Lorina. Known for his killer riffs with Black Label Society and his explosive new band Dark Chapel, Lorina walks us through his dynamic musical journey. From touring at 16 with Warrant's Jani Lane to joining Zakk Wylde's crew in 2014, Dario’s story is one of relentless drive and pure talent.He opens up about his early break with Shrapnel Records and producer Mike Varney, releasing two blazing solo instrumental albums. Dario also dives deep into how he landed the Black Label Society gig.Lorina breaks down Dark Chapel's sound and reveals how diverse influences shaped their debut album. He shares how he approached songwriting, the importance of track sequencing, and what inspired his lyrics. It’s a deep look into the creative mind of a modern metal artist who's constantly pushing boundaries.We also cover the band’s first show at the now-closed legendary venue Count’s Vamp’d in Las Vegas, and their upcoming tour with Zakk Sabbath. Dario hints at future releases from both Black Label Society and Dark Chapel, making this episode a must-watch for fans of heavy rock and shred guitar.Don’t miss this candid and inspiring conversation with one of today’s most electrifying metal guitarists.#BlackLabelSociety #DarioLorina #DarkChapel #ZakkWylde #HeavyMetal #GuitarShred #ShrapnelRecords #HardRock #MetalGuitarist #ZakkSabbath #Countsvampd #VegasMetalScene #GuitarVirtuoso #InstrumentalRock #ModernMetal #GuitarTalk #MetalTour #HeavyGalaxyShow #RockInterview #GuitarInfluencesNOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact.Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

Get ready for a killer mid-year wrap-up on this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show! Matt and John break down their favorite heavy rock and metal albums of the first half of 2025. From thunderous riffs to genre-bending surprises, they spotlight the records that have been dominating their playlists and turning heads across the heavy music scene.But it’s not just about the big names. The guys dig deep into some under-the-radar artists and bands who are redefining the heavy sound and doing it all without mainstream recognition. These are the names you need to know if you care about the future of heavy music.Matt and John also dive into a raw and honest discussion about the challenges facing bands in today’s music industry. Despite a sea of talent, so many incredible acts struggle to break through due to the harsh realities of streaming platforms, limited exposure, and the uphill battle of DIY promotion. Why isn’t heavy music getting the audience it deserves? The guys give their take.To close things out, they touch on the recent cancellation of Pentagram’s Australian tour. What caused it, and what does the future hold for the legendary doom pioneers? Don’t miss this breakdown of what’s happening in the world of heavy rock right now.#heavymetal #hardrock #rockmusic #metalheads #doommetal #stonerrock #undergroundmusic #albumreview #musicindustry #musicdiscussion #rockpodcast #metaltalk #heavymusic #metalpodcast #australianmetal #metalcommunity #rocknroll #newmusic2025 #musicdebate #pentagramNOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, John and Matt dive deep into the state of modern heavy rock vocalists. With the recent passing of the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, the torch is officially being passed. Who's worthy of carrying that legacy forward?The conversation gets real as they highlight the frontmen who rise above the noise and redefine what it means to be a powerful vocalist in today’s heavy music scene. They explore vocal skill, stage presence, lyrical impact, and raw authenticity.Expect honest takes, bold picks, and a passionate breakdown of why some vocalists command attention while others fade into the background. If you're a fan of heavy music and care about who’s shaping its future, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Whether you're discovering new artists or debating longtime favorites, this episode will challenge how you view today’s heavy rock scene. Press play and join the conversation.#HeavyGalaxyShow #HeavyRock #MetalVocalists #RockLegends #ModernMetal #MetalTalk #RockDiscussion #MetalPodcast #NewMetalVoices #HeavyMetalFans #MetalScene #VocalPower #RockCulture #HardRockVoices #UndergroundMetal #MetalDebate #RockRevival #VocalistSpotlight #MetalHeadsUnite #PostOzzyEraNOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to see if their opinions are true or not.Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

On this episode of the Heavy Galaxy Show, Matt & John give their tribute to the late great Ozzy Osbourne and debate whether or not he was the best frontman to ever exist in rock and metal history. The guys discuss the elements to becoming an exceptional lead vocalist and compare Ozzy's prowess to other renowned rock and metal vocalists that are considered some of the greatest to do it throughout the genres history.

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, John and Matt welcome legendary frontman and guitarist Scott “Wino” Weinrich of The Obsessed. Wino opens up about the band’s major lineup change, with Bob Pantella of Monster Magnet and The Atomic Bitchwax stepping in on drums. He explains why the change was made and how it’s already shaping the band’s future.The Obsessed is gearing up for a massive Fall European tour, where they'll perform their iconic album The Church Within in its entirety. Wino reflects on that 1994 release, their only album on a major label, and the intense pressures and choices that came with being signed to Columbia Records. He shares the challenges of preserving artistic integrity in an industry built on compromise.Wino dives into his time working with Dave Grohl on the heavy metal side project PROBOT, offering rare insight into what it was like collaborating with one of rock's biggest names. He also shares his memories of Lemmy from Motörhead, offering personal stories that highlight Lemmy's influence and authenticity.Weinrich takes us back to the early days of The Obsessed in the DC/Baltimore punk and hardcore scene and his run-ins with legendary Black Flag vocalist Henry Rollins. Despite their Black Sabbath-inspired style clashing with the local sound, the band carved out a dedicated fanbase through raw power and commitment. He also reveals details about his upcoming 2025 solo release on Ripple Music, plus a new project he’s creating alongside his wife.This is a rare, deep dive into the life and career of one of heavy music’s most respected voices. Don't miss it.#TheObsessed #ScottWinoWeinrich #HeavyGalaxyShow #RippleMusic #BobPantella #MonsterMagnet #TheAtomicBitchwax #TheChurchWithin #FallTour2025 #PROBOT #DaveGrohl #Lemmy #Motorhead #StonerRock #DoomMetal #HardcoreScene #DCpunk #BaltimoreMusic #ColumbiaRecords #undergroundmusic #henryrollins NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact.Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, John and Matt sit down with Todd Severin, founder of the iconic Ripple Music label. Todd opens up about the early beginnings of Ripple Music and what led him to launch the label during a bleak time for the music industry. Despite no clear revenue model, Todd pushed forward, motivated by a deep love for underground rock and metal. The conversation shifts to Ripple’s core mission—supporting authentic, riff-driven rock music that often flies under the mainstream radar. The guys dig into the historic Back To The Beginning event in Birmingham, England, where Black Sabbath's original members reunited one final time. Todd reflects on Sabbath's impact and how their legacy still drives the underground scene that Ripple supports today. He reveals how he chooses bands for the Ripple roster and what makes a group truly stand out in today’s crowded music landscape. As an ophthalmologist by day and music executive by night, Todd discusses balancing two demanding careers while staying true to his creative passions. He also dives into his debut novel, Deadly Vision, a gripping medical thriller that explores the darker sides of science and morality.The hosts explore some of the lesser-known artists on Ripple's roster who deserve more spotlight and recognition from fans of heavy music. Todd gives an exciting preview of what’s on the horizon for Ripple Music in 2025, including new releases and festival appearances. The trio discusses whether Ripple’s own Freedom Hawk has officially entered legacy artist territory in the underground heavy rock world, Todd updates us on new music on the horizon from legendary guitarist/frontman Wino, Ripple's Beneath The Desert Floor series and much more.Whether you're a longtime fan of Ripple Music or discovering it for the first time, this episode delivers insight you won't want to miss.Watch the full interview to hear how one man’s passion built a label that helped carry a genre through uncertain times.If you love underground rock, metal, and the stories behind the scenes, this episode was made for you.#RippleMusic #HeavyGalaxyShow #UndergroundRock #StonerRock #BlackSabbath #HeavyMetalCommunity #DeadlyVisionBook #FreedomHawk #MetalReunion #IndependentLabel #RockAndRollLegacy #2025RockReleasesNOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, filmmaker Matt Hartnett (LIFERS/Seismic-Sounds.com) & curator/promoter John Gist (Planet Desert Rock Weekend/Vegas Rock Revolution) sit down with T.R. Morton from Freedom Hawk, one of the most revered names in the heavy rock scene. T.R. opens up about the band’s origin in Virginia Beach and how their sound evolved into a globally recognized force. He breaks down his unique vocal tone, often compared to Ozzy Osbourne, and shares how he crafted that distinct style.The conversation dives into T.R.’s favorite festival experiences, the highs and lows of being in a rock band today, and how Freedom Hawk continues to thrive in a world where rock no longer dominates the mainstream. He shares how the band’s music has landed in major TV shows like Hawaii Five-O and gives his honest take on the current state of rock in American culture. T.R. also hints at what fans can expect next and whether new music is on the way. This is an unfiltered and insightful look into the life of a true rock veteran.#HeavyRock #FreedomHawk #StonerRock #RockMusic #HardRock #TRMorton #TheHeavyGalaxyShow #UndergroundRock #OzzyVibes #RockCulture #DesertRock #RocknRollNOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to see if their opinions are true or not.Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

Matt Hartnett (One Palm Productions / Seismic-Sounds.com) and John Gist (Planet Desert Rock Weekend / Vegas Rock Revolution) are back—and they’re turning up the volume on THE HEAVY GALAXY SHOW.This rebooted episode dives deep into the state of heavy rock, tackling its current challenges, cultural shifts, and where it all might be headed.With their combined years of industry experience, Matt and John offer sharp insight and unfiltered commentary that both hardcore fans and curious newcomers will appreciate.They break down the current music festival landscape—what’s changed, what’s missing, and what it means for the heavy rock scene. From dwindling attendance to fewer rock-focused lineups, they explain how the festival world reflects deeper issues in rock culture today.John shares exclusive updates on Planet Desert Rock Weekend VI, returning to Las Vegas in January 2026 with a killer lineup and fresh energy.He explains what makes the event a must-see for fans of stoner rock, desert rock, and heavy grooves that move your soul.The episode doesn’t shy away from hard truths, especially about the growing disconnect between rock and younger music fans. Matt and John explore why younger audiences in the US are losing interest in rock and how that’s slowly eroding the genre’s mainstream influence as artists and bands prefer to focus growing their fanbase in Europe rather than at home. They dig into generational taste shifts, cultural relevance, and how today’s musical gatekeepers are steering listeners away from guitars and grit. But they don’t just stop at the problem—they spotlight bands that are doing everything right, even if they’re still flying under the radar.The Heavy Galaxy Show is back—watch the episode, join the conversation, and help keep rock’s flame burning.#heavyrock #stonerrock #planetdesertrockweekend #rockfestivals #rockculture #heavymusic #lasvegasrock #rockcommunity #90srockinfluence #rockisnotdead #undergroundrock #musicindustrytalkPlease SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

On this episode of SEISMIC SOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND, Matt sits down with guitarist/producer Jeff Henson from Austin metal-heavy rock veterans DUEL. Henson discusses the band's new full-length 'Breakfast With Death' and the band's increased emphasis on metallic-driven songwriting over the last two records. The guys also discuss Henson's work as a producer at his renowned Red Nova Ranch studio in Texas, how he balances being a professional musician and studio maven, why it makes more sense to tour Europe over the US in the current state of the music business and much more.

On this episode of SEISMIC SOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND, Matt chats with HIGH DESERT QUEEN vocalist to talk about the band's sophomore release 'Palm Reader'. The guys discuss the band's musical direction on the album and how Garney expanded his vocal range compare to the HDQ's debut full-length 'Secrets Of The Black Moon'. Ryan discusses their 2024' summer tour plans as well as how the band wound up fearing GAUPA vocalist Emma Naslund on the track 'Death Perception'. Garney fills us in on how he curated Ripplefest 2024' band lineup and the challenges he faces annually when selecting band's for the festival and much more.

On this episode of SEISMIC SOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND, Matt chats with guitarist/vocalist Jon Cosky and bassist/vocalist Jude Sisk from Houston stoner-sludge trio STONE NOMADS. The guys discuss the recent remastering of the band's debut LP "...at the Gates of Solitude" and the contributions provided by TROUBLE/EXHORDER vocalist Kyle Thomas, Grammy award winning engineer Alan Douches and MONOLORD drummer Esben WIllems, their decades long musical relationship going back to their teenage years, challenges they face with touring in the modern day music business and much more.

On this episode of SEISMIC SOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND, Matt sits down with vocalist Mike Vickers from Boston stoner-sludge stalwarts LEATHER LUNG. Vickers talks about the band's debut LP "Graveside Grin" and how the addition of new guitarist Greg has complimented and expanded their sound from previous released EP's. Mike discusses the bands first two singles/videos 'Spit In The Casket' and 'Empty Bottle Boogie' and how he focuses on writing lyrics that music fan can relate to. Vickers discusses the bands debaucherous and alcohol-fueled anthems, the current state of the burgeoning Boston/New England heavy rock scene, LEATHER LUNG's tour plans for 2024 and more.

On this episode of SEISMIC SOUNDS of the Underground Matt chats with bassist and frontwoman High Priestess Nighthawk to chat about the bands new album 'Garden Of Heathens'. They discuss the band's evolving musical style and approach, lyrical themes on the album, recording the album on a farm, favorite memory touring with Wino and The Obsessed, the band's upcoming headlining US Summer Tour with Valley of The Sun and more.

On this episode of SEISMIC SOUNDS OF THE UNDERGROUND, Matt chats with guitarist/vocalist Zach Amster from Denver melodic-heavy rockers ABRAMS. The guys talk about the bands new album "Blue City", the band's ever-evolving sound recording at the renowned God City Studios in Salem, MA, the musical relationship between Zach and his twin brother and NEBULA/MONDO GENERATOR drummer Mike Amster, the bands upcoming summer 2024 US tour dates including an appearance at Desertfest 2024 and more.

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, John and Matt chat with drummer/vocalist Zach Wheeler and bassist/vocalist Sebastian Baltes from Nashville heavy rock honchos HOWLING GIANT. The guys chat about the trio's sophomore full-length 'Glass Future' and discuss the band's more concise approach to the songwriting compare to their debut LP 'The Space Between Worlds'. Zach and Sebastian discuss the band's first single/video 'Aluminum Crown' and how the song was originally scheduled to feature the late-great Mark Lanegan on vocals before his passing in 2022. Baltes talks about being the son of legendary bassist Peter Baltes from German classic metal kings ACCEPT and how joined the three-piece midway through the recording of the band's debut LP back in 2019. Wheeler discusses the bands triple-attack vocal approach and how challenging it is performing led vocals and drums simultaneously and much more. Go to www.HeavyGalaxy.com for all interviews/episodes.

Matt and John chat it up with PATRIARCHS IN BLACK guitarist Dan Lorenzo (Cassius King/Vessel Of Light/Non Fiction/Hades) and drummer Johnny Kelly (Type O Negative/Quiet Riot) to talk about the duo's sophomore LP 'My Veneration'. The guys discuss the band's unique approach in selecting multiple vocalists on their first two records and the additional elements that were incorporated into the stellar follow up to 2021's 'Reach For The Scars'. Lorenzo and Kelly discuss the differences between a traditional rock/metal band who writes and records music together in a studio compared to what PIB does with their approach as band members who live a significant distance from one another. The guys discuss their recent Grammy nomination consideration for their cover of the Led Zeppelin track 'Friends' which also features renowned vocalist Militia Vox (Judas Priestess). Kelly fills us in on current happenings with his latest project EYE AM which features fellow Type O Negative member Kenny Hickey and Crowbar guitarist/vocalist Kirk Windstein. Lorenzo gives us the latest on his other bands Vessel Of Light, Cassius King and much more.

On this episode of The Heavy Galaxy Show, Matt and John chat with HAUNT/BEASTMAKER mainman Trevor William Church. Trevor talks growing up in the music world with his father/legendary bassist Bill 'The Electric' Church (Montrose/Sammy Hagar/Van Morrison) and his soon-to-be-released biography 'THE ELECTRIC CHURCH'. Church discusses the recent reactivation of doom metal masters BEASTMAKER and whether or not they will be releasing new music any time soon. Trevor talks the high-production on HAUNT's most recent full-length release 'GOLDEN ARM', his experiences with John at Stoned & Dusted 2018' with BEASTMAKER and much more.