Laughingmonkeymusic

Shawn Ratches

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MUSIC INTERVIEWS
UPDATED TWICE WEEKLY

Hi welcome to Laughingmonkeymusic a show that explores all genres of music. As someone with autism, I bring a unique perspective to my interviews, aiming to create an authentic and engaging experience for both artists and listeners.Thanks for listening!

12 HR AGO

Ep 641: Don McLean on Songwriting, American Pie, and a Lifetime in Music !

Don McLean is an American singer-songwriter best known for his 1971 epic “American Pie,” a composition that has become one of the most analyzed and culturally referenced songs in popular music history. Born in 1945 in New Rochelle, New York, McLean emerged from the late-1960s folk revival scene, drawing influence from artists such as Pete Seeger and the broader Greenwich Village movement. His songwriting is characterized by narrative structure, symbolic lyricism, and melodic sensibility rooted in traditional American folk forms. Released in 1971, the album American Pie cemented McLean’s commercial and artistic stature. The title track, running over eight minutes, achieved No. 1 status on the Billboard Hot 100 and has endured as a generational touchstone, often interpreted as a meditation on the evolution—and perceived loss of innocence—within American rock and cultural life. Beyond that signature work, McLean also achieved international success with songs such as “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night),” a tribute to Vincent van Gogh that showcased his capacity for intimate, emotionally direct songwriting. Over a career spanning more than five decades, McLean has continued to tour and record, maintaining relevance through licensing, covers, and renewed chart activity tied to cultural anniversaries and media exposure. His catalog remains widely performed and referenced, underscoring his role as a transitional figure between the 1960s folk revival and 1970s singer-songwriter era. McLean’s enduring impact lies in his ability to merge poetic narrative with accessible melody, creating works that operate simultaneously as popular hits and interpretive texts. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

32 min
2 DAYS AGO

Ep 640 WARBRINGER'S John Kevill talks WAR & RUIN plus this could be their last tour!

John Kevill is best known as the frontman and primary lyricist for Warbringer, a key band in the modern thrash metal movement. Since co-founding Warbringer in 2004, Kevill has been central to shaping the band’s aggressive sound and uncompromising attitude, channeling the spirit of classic 1980s thrash while keeping it firmly grounded in contemporary relevance. His vocal delivery is raw and commanding, perfectly matched to the band’s high-speed, precision-driven assault. Kevill’s lyrics are a defining element of Warbringer’s identity, frequently exploring themes of war, political corruption, historical conflict, authoritarianism, and the darker aspects of human behavior. Known for his depth and research-driven approach, he brings a sense of intelligence and purpose to the band’s music that goes beyond aggression alone. This lyrical focus has earned Warbringer respect not only for their musicianship, but also for the substance and urgency behind their message. Outside of recordings, Kevill is widely recognized as a powerful and engaging live performer, delivering intense, no-frills performances that reinforce Warbringer’s reputation as a formidable live act. He is also well regarded within the metal community for his thoughtful perspectives on music history, culture, and the evolution of thrash metal. That balance of insight, conviction, and relentless energy has made John Kevill a standout voice in modern heavy metal. Social / Online Presence Instagram: johnkevillsucksX (Twitter): johnkevillsucksWarbringer official websiteWarbringer official InstagramWarbringer official Facebook Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

57 min
5 DAYS AGO

Ep 639 Jason Bitter Shadows Fall is back and in the studio, Jason catches us up on their progress !

Jason Bittner is one of modern metal’s most respected drummers, known for his precision, power, and deep understanding of groove within extreme music. Best recognized for his long tenure with Shadows Fall, Bittner helped define the band’s sound during their most influential years, contributing to albums that bridged aggressive thrash roots with melodic metalcore sensibility. His playing style balances technical control with feel, making even the fastest passages sound intentional rather than mechanical. Beyond Shadows Fall, Bittner has remained a constant presence in heavy music through his work with Overkill, Flotsam and Jetsam, and Category 7, proving his versatility across multiple eras of metal. Whether driving classic thrash riffs or supporting more modern arrangements, his consistency and professionalism have made him a trusted drummer in bands where precision and endurance are non-negotiable. Follow Jason Bittner online Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason_bittner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasonbittnerdrums X / Twitter: https://x.com/jasonbittner Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

30 min
1 FEB

Ep 637 Jimmi Bleacher (former Salty Dog) is back! Making new music + bonus new song at end of show!

Jimmi Bleacher is back, and he’s got plenty to say. Best known as the frontman of the late-’80s Hollywood glam metal band Salty Dog, Jimmi joins the show to reconnect with fans and reflect on a career that’s taken some unexpected turns. From Sunset Strip buzz to major-label releases, his early run with Salty Dog captured a raw, blues-soaked edge that helped set them apart from the pack during a crowded era. In this episode, Jimmi walks through the Salty Dog story in detail—how the band formed, landed a deal with Geffen Records, and released Every Dog Has Its Day in 1990. He talks candidly about the highs of touring and major exposure, as well as the challenges that came with shifting musical trends as the ’90s approached. It’s an honest look at what it was really like to ride the tail end of the glam metal wave. The conversation also brings listeners up to speed on what Jimmi has been doing since those days. He discusses stepping away from the spotlight, personal growth, and how time away from the industry reshaped his perspective on music and creativity. Rather than chasing trends, Jimmi explains how his focus now is on authenticity and writing songs that reflect who he is today. Most importantly, Jimmi is making new music again—and it’s not just a nostalgia play. He shares what inspired his return, what fans can expect from his current material, and how his past informs his present without defining it. This episode is both a catch-up and a fresh start, offering longtime fans and new listeners a clear picture of where Jimmi Bleacher has been—and where he’s headed next. https://www.facebook.com/jimmi.bleacher Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

46 min
30 JAN

DragonForce singer Marc Hudson

https://www.facebook.com/marchudsonofficial Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

32 min
30 JAN

EVILE's guitarist & vocalist OL Drake

https://www.evilecult.com/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

31 min
30 JAN

Virgin Steele singer David Defeis

http://www.virgin-steele.com/ https://www.facebook.com/VIRGINSTEELEOFFICIAL/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

36 min
30 JAN

PRONG'S Tommy Victor: State of Emergency

https://prongmusic.com/ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/laughingmonkeymusic/exclusive-content

28 min

Hi welcome to Laughingmonkeymusic a show that explores all genres of music. As someone with autism, I bring a unique perspective to my interviews, aiming to create an authentic and engaging experience for both artists and listeners.Thanks for listening!

Creator

Shawn Ratches
Years Active

2020 - 2026
Episodes

643
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Shawn Ratches
Show Website

Laughingmonkeymusic