Tune in as Mark and Thom take you on a sonic journey back to the angst and electricity of their high school days, as they unpack Rage Against the Machine's powerful second album, 'Evil Empire.' This trip down memory lane isn't just about the music; it's about the experiences and stories surrounding Rage Against the Machine that helped to shape these two into the fine gentlemen they are today.

Mark shares tales from his marching band days, discusses the unifying force of music, and the ways in which Rage Against the Machine's played into their youthful rebellions.

Take a deeper look into Zach de la Rocha's political fury and Tom Morello's genre-bending guitar riffs as they explore their formative years and the revolutionary blend of rap, rock, and activism that defined Rage Against the Machine. Thom and Mark muse over the enigmatic impact Zach's upbringing had on his music and politics, chuckle at Morello's unexpected exotic dancing stint, and get real about the persistent relevance of their messages in today's society. Even as they laugh about the odd intersection of Paul Ryan's music taste and his politics, the depth of Rage Against the Machine's work continues to resonate deeply with us.

Whether you're a long-time fan or just curious about the band's impact, you'll find something to connect with as they reveal their personal top picks from the album and reflect on the live performances that left us awestruck. Enjoy this episode - it's part analysis, part homage, and all passion for a band whose rage still echoes in the halls of music and protest.

Show notes

00:01:22 - Thom & Mark catch up, talk puppies, unexpected $700 Door Dash charges, and Mark announces Regan Ashton officially signing with Burro Buracho Records.

00:04:39 - Teasing Evil Empire, Rage Against the Machine's stance on the military and policing in America, Zack de la Rocha's amazing hair, and Tom Morello's guitar skills.

00:05:21 - Mark and Thom's intro to Rage Against the Machine.

00:07:50 - Political disclaimer and some Paul Ryan bashing.

00:19:41 - Zack's early life

00:12:42 - Introing Tom Morello

00:16:07 - Zack meets Tom

00:17:48 - Self-titled release and the three-year wait for Evil Empire

00:18:55 - Production notes for Evil Empire

00:14:50 - Evil Empire cover art and critical reception

00:32:47 - People of the Sun

00:35:52 - Bulls on Parade

00:38:46 - Vietnow

00:40:08 - Revolver

00:42:10 - Snake Charmer

00:45:14 - Tire Me

00:46:54 - Down Rodeo

00:49:02 - Without a Face

00:50:19 - Wind Below

00:51:22 - Roll right

00:52:09 - Year of tha Boomerang

00:58:52 - Thom's top 3

00:59:01 - Mark's top 3

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.