The Sonic Road Podcast

The Sonic Road Media, LLC
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The Sonic Road Podcast is your ultimate destination for all things rock and metal! Dive deep into the world of hard-hitting music as we bring you exclusive interviews with iconic musicians, seasoned roadies, visionary photographers, talented graphic artists, legendary producers, skilled engineers, insightful authors, and groundbreaking directors. Stay up-to-date with the latest music news across the rock, metal, alternative and more. Whether you’re a die-hard metalhead, a rock enthusiast, or just someone who loves discovering the stories behind the music, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we

  1. Rival Sons Frontman Jay Buchanan Reveals the Desert Solitude behind his Solo Album "Weapons of Beauty," and Discusses the Future of Rival Sons

    FEB 17

    Rival Sons Frontman Jay Buchanan Reveals the Desert Solitude behind his Solo Album "Weapons of Beauty," and Discusses the Future of Rival Sons

    In this exclusive episode of The Sonic Road, Jay Buchanan (lead singer of Rival Sons) joins host Beau to discuss his deeply personal solo record, Weapons of Beauty. Jay details his three-month writing retreat in an underground Mojave Desert bunker, where he forced himself into a sparse, reductive sound centered on vocal melody. Follow Jay Buchanan on Instagram: @jaythebirdthatsings Listen & Purchase Weapons Of Beauty Here: weaponsofbeauty.com Follow Rival Sons Here: rivalsons.com Follow The Sonic Road Podcast HERE: https://linktr.ee/thesonicroad On Instagram, Facebook, X & TikTok: @thesonicroad Go behind the scenes of the recording sessions in Savannah with legendary producer Dave Cobb, featuring a powerhouse band including JD Simo and the Powell brothers. Jay also shares the story of collaborating with filmmaker Scott Cooper (director of Hostiles, Crazy Heart) on album sequencing and commissioning world-renowned painter Jeremy Lipking for the cover art. We also get a major update on the future of Rival Sons, and their label Sacred Tongue Recordings, and the status of their next studio album. From vinyl snobbery and AI to the challenges of touring while balancing family health, this is a comprehensive look at one of rock's most authentic voices in 2026. Video Chapters: 00:00 – Jay Buchanan: Releasing "Weapons of Beauty"02:01 – Mojave Desert Solitude: Writing in a Bunker09:13 – The Vulnerability of Solo Performance13:49 – Recording with Dave Cobb in Savannah18:10 – The Studio Band: JD Simo & The Powell Brothers20:52 – Vinyl Sequencing with Director Scott Cooper25:51 – Landing a Jeremy Lipking Painting for the Cover29:57 – 17 Years of Rival Sons: The Next Record34:22 – Sacred Tongue Recordings: Why Start a Label?37:25 – 2026 Tour Dates and Family Health Update43:32 – Record Recommendations: Daniel Norgren & Fela Kuti #TheSonicRoad #JayBuchanan #RivalSons #DaveCobb #VinylCommunity #NewMusic2026

    48 min
  2. Barnburners Album Deep Dive: Handsome Jack’s Track-By-Track Guide and 2026 Tour Plans

    FEB 9

    Barnburners Album Deep Dive: Handsome Jack’s Track-By-Track Guide and 2026 Tour Plans

    The new Handsome Jack album is finally here. Join host Beau on The Sonic Road as the band breaks down "Barnburners" track-by-track ahead of the February 6th release on Alive Naturalsounds. ✅ Find Handsome Jack HERE: http://www.handsomejackmusic.com/        Order Barnburners HERE: https://www.bompstore.com/alive/ 🎸Follow The Sonic Road Podcast: https://linktr.ee/thesonicroad?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=f29d7261-89c5-40c8-b1ab-705aa256faa5 In this exclusive episode, Handsome Jack dives deep into the making of their brand new album, Barnburners. The band discusses the creative process behind their signature blend of blues, rock, and soul, sharing the inspiration for every song and the art concepts that define the record. We cover their 2026 touring plans, recording challenges, and their reflections on the future of rock and roll. The guys also share stories from the underground, including memorable interactions with Dan Auerbach and The Black Keys, and explain why simplicity was the key to naming their latest masterpiece. If you're a fan of analog recording, independent labels, or the Buffalo music scene, this deep dive into one of 2026's most anticipated rock release is for you. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Episode 27 00:31 Interview Kickoff with Handsome Jack 00:41 Discussing the New Album 'Barn Burners' 03:09 European Tour Recap 05:16 Songwriting Process and Influences 14:20 Album Artwork and Special Editions 17:01 Deep Dive into the Tracks 21:45 Exploring Tony Joe White's Legacy 23:20 Dan Auerbach's Influence and Encounters 24:53 The Story Behind Blue Falls Motel 26:17 Creating Catchy Tunes: Do It to It 26:50 Homage to John Lee Hooker: I'm Hooked 27:25 The Art of Sequencing an Album 28:56 Polly Molly: A Modern Dating Tale 30:29 Let's Go Downtown: High-Energy Tracks 31:19 Unreleased Tracks and Future Plans 33:17 Ghost Woman: A Haunting Melody 34:33 Upcoming Releases and Live Performances 37:31 Final Thoughts and Farewell #TheSonicRoadPodcast #HandsomeJack #Barnburners #AliveNaturalsounds #RockAndRoll2026 #NewMusic #VinylCommunity #BluesRock #BuffaloNewYork

    38 min
  3. Sonic Road Podcast Episode 26: The Best Albums and Books of 2025 with Becky Franzel

    JAN 21

    Sonic Road Podcast Episode 26: The Best Albums and Books of 2025 with Becky Franzel

    What were the best albums and books of 2025? Join host Beau and independent author Becky Franzel on The Sonic Road for a deep-dive review of the media that captured us over the last year. In an era dominated by AI and algorithms, we’re celebrating the human artistry, physical media, and DIY communities keeping the heavy music underground alive in 2026. In this episode, Beau and Becky share their definitive 2025 countdown, from the crushing return of Pelican to the riffs of Howling Giant and Die Spitz. Becky Franzel (author of "I Don't Belong Here") brings her unique perspective on the intersection of literature and rock 'n' roll, discussing essential reads like Geezer Butler’s memoir and the evolution of the Milwaukee metal scene. We also explore the fascinating world of vintage van culture and why "Steven," Becky's 1979 Chevy, is a vital part of the rock lifestyle. 🔥 Key Takeaways from the 2025 Year in Review: The Best of 2025: The local Milwaukee band Sex Scenes, Die Spitz (Something to Consume), Howling Giant (Crucible & Ruin) Jesse Sykes & The Sweet Hereafter (Forever I’ve Been Being Born), and Pelican’s return with Flickering Resonance. Literary Riffs: A look at essential rock literature, including Geezer Butler’s Into the Void and Cameron Crowe’s The Uncool.Building Community: How the underground music scene has evolved post-COVID and why DIY mentorship is the backbone of the Milwaukee metal scene.Van Culture & Music: The unique crossover between vintage vans and the rock lifestyle. 📖 Find Becky Franzel’s Work Here: Pre-order Becky’s New Book: I Don't Belong Here (Aw Shucks Publishing)Follow Becky Franzel: @becky_franzel & @awshucks_publishing 🔗 Connect with The Sonic Road: Listen & Subscribe: https://linktr.ee/thesonicroad?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=1ec922a6-c346-4f3e-ab64-81c68a598f62 On Instagram, Facebook & Tictok: @thesonicroad⏱️ Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Episode 26  00:41 Becky Franzel: Author, Advocate, and Rock Enthusiast  01:03 Concert Memories: The 2025 Live Experience  06:54 Top Albums & Books of 2025  12:44 The Resilience of the Independent Music Community  24:27 Black Sabbath & Ozzy: The Eternal Impact of Rock Legends  31:24 The Art of Writing & Rock and Roll Literature  37:03 Van Culture: Life on the Road with ‘Steven'  50:04 Final Thoughts: Why Human Art Wins in 2026 #TheSonicRoadPodcast #BeckyFranzel #HumanMadeMusic #StonerRock #Author

    51 min
  4. Ryan Garney (High Desert Queen) on "Palm Reader," Scaling Ripple Fest & The Future of Rock

    JAN 7

    Ryan Garney (High Desert Queen) on "Palm Reader," Scaling Ripple Fest & The Future of Rock

    High Desert Queen frontman Ryan Garney joins The Sonic Road Podcast to discuss the band's latest album "Palm Reader" and the massive growth of Ripple Fest Texas.  In this deep dive, Ryan breaks down the creative process behind their latest release on Magnetic Eye Records, his shift toward analog recording, and the raw energy of tracking a rock band live on tape. Find High Desert Queen Music & Tour Dates: https://highdesertqueen.bandcamp.com/  Follow Ripple Fest Texas: On Instagram & Tiktok: @gigging.with.garney Follow The Sonic Road Podcast: Subscribe on YouTube: https://linktr.ee/thesonicroadInstagram: @thesonicroadAs the founder of Ripple Fest Texas and Lick of My Spoon Productions, Ryan provides a masterclass on organizing a successful independent festival.  He teases exclusive details for the Ripple Fest 2026 lineup, shares the ethics of using AI in music, and discusses the challenges of booking underground bands in a post-COVID industry. We also dive into his "Gigging with Garney" series on Instagram and his mission to help independent artists navigate the modern music business. High Desert Queen Fans: What are your early predictions for the Ripple Fest 2026 lineup? Let us know in the comments! 🕓 Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ryan Garney and High Desert Queen00:29 Social Media and Festival Promotions00:59 Transitioning the Podcast to Analog01:16 AI in Music: A Double-Edged Sword02:20 The Ethics and Challenges of AI in Music08:09 Recording Techniques and Band Dynamics13:19 The Evolution of High Desert Queen's Sound19:33 The Underground Music Scene and Community32:29 Challenges in the Post-COVID Music Industry35:25 The Challenges of Booking Bands for Festivals37:22 Starting Ripple Fest: The Journey Begins39:23 Scaling Up: From One Day to Four Days41:04 Creating an Unforgettable Festival Experience46:43 Exciting Announcements for Ripple Fest 202649:12 Supporting Independent Music and Touring Plans52:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans#HighDesertQueen #RippleFestTexas #StonerRock #IndependentMusic #MusicBusiness

    1h 1m
  5. Howling Giant's Zach Wheeler on New Album 'Crucible and Ruin,' Recording & Stoner Metal Evolution

    10/22/2025

    Howling Giant's Zach Wheeler on New Album 'Crucible and Ruin,' Recording & Stoner Metal Evolution

    In this exclusive episode of The Sonic Road Podcast, drummer Zach Wheeler from the Nashville rock/metal band Howling Giant dives deep into their sound, process, and new album! Their highly anticipated new record, 'Crucible and Ruin,' releases on October 31, 2025, via Magnetic Eye Records, making this essential listening for fans of modern stoner metal. Zach details the band's evolution and their unique recording process, including how they integrated new member Adrian and the journey of improving their group vocals. Hear candid discussion about his specific drum gear, the concept behind the new album, the creation of their animated music videos, and their future touring plans. This interview provides crucial studio insights and everything you need to know about one of modern heavy rock's most exciting bands.

    46 min
  6. Highlight Reel: Greenleaf's Arvid Hällagård Discusses Mental Health, AI in Art, and Swedish Rock Scene in New In-Depth Interview

    EPISODE 23 TRAILER

    Highlight Reel: Greenleaf's Arvid Hällagård Discusses Mental Health, AI in Art, and Swedish Rock Scene in New In-Depth Interview

    Watch our full interview with Arvid Hällagård, the incredible frontman for the Swedish stoner rock band Greenleaf and the creative force behind POOLS. We take a deep dive into the songwriting and creation of Greenleaf's latest masterpiece, "The Head & The Habit," discussing his dual role as both the lyricist and the album's graphic artist.

    5 min
  7. Greenleaf's Arvid Hällagård Discusses Mental Health, AI in Art, and Swedish Rock Scene

    10/02/2025

    Greenleaf's Arvid Hällagård Discusses Mental Health, AI in Art, and Swedish Rock Scene

    In this full-length interview, we sit down with Arvid Hällagård, the voice of the legendary Swedish stoner rock band Greenleaf. Arvid gives a raw and honest look into the songwriting for their new album "The Head and the Habit,"exploring the powerful themes of mental health that shape his lyrics and creative vision. Follow The Sonic Road Podcast on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & X: @thesonicroad  Subscribe on Youtube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts:  https://linktr.ee/thesonicroad Find all things GREENLEAF HERE: https://greenleaf-music.com On Instagram: @greenleafband Magnetic Eye Records: https://en.merhq.net On Instagram: @magneticeyerecords  This wide-ranging conversation goes far beyond the music. Arvid provides a fascinating look into the unique Swedish rock scene, the challenges of touring while balancing family life, and his perspective on the music industry's future. We also discuss his incredible work as a graphic artist, leading to a crucial debate on the controversial role of AI in art and design. From stories about festivals like Ripple Fest to the creative freedom of his side project POOLS, this is an essential deep dive into the mind of one of modern rock's most passionate and thoughtful artists.

    53 min
  8. What It Was REALLY Like Opening for TOOL (feat. Nick DiSalvo & Jack Donovan of Elder)

    EPISODE 22 TRAILER

    What It Was REALLY Like Opening for TOOL (feat. Nick DiSalvo & Jack Donovan of Elder)

    In this highlight from our full-length interview, Nick DiSalvo (and/or Jack Donovan) of the progressive rock band Elder shares his insight on the creative process and the realities of the modern music industry. The full conversation covers everything from Elder's songwriting process and the evolution of their psychedelic sound to their incredible experience touring with the band Tool and Nick's work at Stickman Records. If you enjoy this clip, you will love the entire deep dive into one of modern rock's most innovative bands.

    9 min
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About

The Sonic Road Podcast is your ultimate destination for all things rock and metal! Dive deep into the world of hard-hitting music as we bring you exclusive interviews with iconic musicians, seasoned roadies, visionary photographers, talented graphic artists, legendary producers, skilled engineers, insightful authors, and groundbreaking directors. Stay up-to-date with the latest music news across the rock, metal, alternative and more. Whether you’re a die-hard metalhead, a rock enthusiast, or just someone who loves discovering the stories behind the music, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we

Information

  • Creator
    The Sonic Road Media, LLC
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Sonic Road Media, LLC
  • Show Website
    The Sonic Road Podcast