Signals From Mars Podcast

Victor M. Ruiz
  • 4.4 (19)
  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

All types of hard rock and metal interviews and music discussions since 2009. Visit us at www.signalsfrommars.com. Linktr.ee/signalsfrommars patreon.com/signalsfrommars

  1. February 2026 Albums Review

    14H AGO

    February 2026 Albums Review

    Victor is joined by Jeremy Weltman and Ed Ferguson to break down a wide range of hard rock and heavy metal releases from February 2026, with the goal of keeping new music in the conversation and helping listeners discover albums that deserve more attention. This episode mixes monthly album-review staples with broader discussion about style, songwriting, production, and why supporting new rock and metal still matters. Among the records and artists discussed are Tailgunner, Hoaxed, Converge, Leatherhead, Deeper Graves, A Wilhelm Scream, Silver Sun Pickups, Zepter, Serpent Gates, NerveStar, The Sheepdogs, and more. Victor, Jeremy, and Ed each highlight different favorites from the month, giving the episode a strong mix of traditional heavy metal, goth rock, punk, melodic hard rock, metalcore, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Standout picks from the episode include Tailgunner – Midnight Blitz, Hoaxed – Death Knocks, Deeper Graves – Pull Me Toward the Dark, and A Wilhelm Scream – Cheap Heat, along with plenty of discussion about why certain albums connect more than others and how listeners can use these monthly review episodes to find new bands worth following. Shout out to my Patrons: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond Thank you for all of your support! Featured artist / band links: Tailgunner: https://www.instagram.com/tailgunnerhq/ Hoaxed: https://www.hoaxedband.com/ Deeper Graves: https://deeper-graves.bandcamp.com/ Deeper Graves Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deepergraves/ A Wilhelm Scream: https://www.awilhelmscream.com/ Connect with Signals From Mars: Website: https://signalsfrommars.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/ X / Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars Merch: https://signals-from-mars.creator-spring.com/

    1h 35m
  2. Mark Strigl

    MAR 13

    Mark Strigl

    In Episode 448 of Signals From Mars, Victor M. Ruiz sits down with Mark Strigl for a conversation centered on some of the biggest talking points in hard rock and metal right now. Without giving the interview away, this episode digs into the kind of topics that always spark strong opinions among fans: the idea of Metallica playing the Sphere, Iron Maiden’s 50th anniversary and Eddfest, what it means if rock is once again gaining momentum, and the broader impact Talking Metal has had on podcasting in the hard rock and heavy metal space. This is a discussion built for fans who care about where the genre has been, where it is now, and where it may be headed next. If you’re into hard rock and metal podcasts, music discussion, and longform conversations that go beyond surface-level takes, this episode is for you. Topics covered include: Metallica and the Sphere Iron Maiden’s 50th anniversary celebration Rock’s recent growth as a genre Talking Metal’s place in podcast history Follow Mark Strigl / Talking Metal: Talking Metal Website: https://talkingmetal.com/ Talking Metal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/talkingmetal Mark Strigl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markstrigl/ Mark Strigl X: https://x.com/Strigl Talking Metal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingmetaldigital/ Talking Metal YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/talkingmetal Follow Signals From Mars: Signals From Mars Website: https://signalsfrommars.com Signals From Mars Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars Signals From Mars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars Signals From Mars YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars Signals From Mars X: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars Signals From Mars Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/ Signals From Mars Follow Page: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/follow/ I can also merge this back into the full spoiler-free YouTube description. Special thanks to my Patrons: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond #SignalsFromMars #HeavyMetal #HardRock

    40 min
  3. Philip Shouse

    MAR 10

    Philip Shouse

    Guitarist Philip Shouse joins Signals From Mars to discuss his first solo EP, Side 1 and the journey that led him to finally release music under his own name. Known for performing alongside artists such as Ace Frehley, Gene Simmons, John Corabi, Accept, and the Rock N Roll Residency, Philip has spent years on stages around the world. With Side 1, he steps into the spotlight as a solo artist and shares the songs that represent his personal musical vision. In this interview, Philip discusses how long he has been working on the material, whether he ever shared the songs with artists he’s collaborated with, and the challenges of being seen as Philip Shouse the artist rather than just the guitarist supporting other legendary performers. We also dive into his experiences playing with members of KISS, the unique environment of The Rock N Roll Residency, and what the future holds with Accept. Philip also shares his long-term plans for his solo music, whether Side 2 may be on the horizon, and where fans can go to purchase Side 1 and support him directly. If you're a fan of hard rock, classic rock guitar, and behind-the-scenes stories from musicians who have shared the stage with legends, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Follow Philip Shouse Instagram https://www.instagram.com/philipshouse Facebook https://www.facebook.com/philipshouse X / Twitter https://x.com/philipshouse Follow Signals From Mars 🌐 Website https://www.signalsfrommars.com 📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/signalsfrommars 🎧 Podcast https://signalsfrommars.com 🔥 Patreon https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars 🛒 Merch https://signalsfrommars.com/merch Special thanks to Signals From Mars Patrons Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond #SignalsFromMars #PhilipShouse #AcceptBand #AceFrehley #GeneSimmons #HardRock #HeavyMetal #Guitarist #RockPodcast #MetalPodcast #RockInterview #GuitarHero #ClassicRock #MetalCommunity #RockNRoll

    41 min
  4. 1980

    MAR 6

    1980

    This episode is a fan-voted countdown of hard rock and heavy metal albums released in 1980. All rankings are based on listener submissions and calculated using the same points system used in previous Signals From Mars countdown episodes. This episode focuses purely on how the audience voted, highlighting consensus picks, surprise placements, and albums that narrowly missed the cut. What We’re Covering Listener-submitted Top 10 albums from 1980 Final rankings based on total points Discussion of each album’s placement, impact, and legacy Reactions to controversial rankings and omissions How 1980 compares to other classic metal years already covered on the show Voting Rules Recap Only albums originally released in 1980 were eligible Studio albums only (no live albums or compilations) Points assigned by rank (higher rank = more points) Final list ordered by total points Livestream Format Countdown presented from lowest rank to #1 Ongoing live chat reactions and debate Listener shout-outs as rankings are revealed Open discussion once the Top 3 are revealed Talking Points to Keep in Mind The shift from late-’70s hard rock to early ’80s metal Early NWOBHM influence vs established legacy acts Albums that aged better—or worse—than expected Fan voting vs “classic list” narratives Thank you goes out to my Patrons: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond Thank you for being so supportive! 🔊 Signals From Mars Links Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Signalsfrommars Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommars X / Twitter: https://x.com/signalsfrommars

    2h 20m
  5. Alex Skolnick

    FEB 27

    Alex Skolnick

    In Episode 445, Victor sits down with Alex Skolnick for a wide-ranging conversation that digs into creativity, collaboration, and the mindset of a player who never stops evolving. From the unique chemistry behind Metal Allegiance to reflections on live performance, artistic curiosity beyond metal, and moments that defined a legendary career, this episode balances deep guitar talk with thoughtful storytelling. We talk Metal Allegiance, Testament, Savatage, Ozzy, and The Alex Skolnick Trio. #AlexSkolnick #MetalAllegiance #SignalsFromMars Thank you goes out to my Patrons: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond Thank you for being so supportive! 🔗 Artist & Band Links Alex Skolnick Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexskolnickX / Twitter: https://x.com/alexskolnick Metal Allegiance Website: https://metalallegiance.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/metalallegianceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetalAllegianceX / Twitter: https://x.com/metalallegiance Testament Website: https://testamentlegions.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/testamentofficialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/testamentlegionsX / Twitter: https://x.com/testament 🔊 Signals From Mars Links Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SignalsFromMarsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommarsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsX / Twitter: https://x.com/signalsfrommars

    46 min
  6. A Wilhelm Scream

    FEB 24

    A Wilhelm Scream

    In Episode 444 of Signals From Mars, I’m joined by Ben and Nuno from A Wilhelm Scream for a wide-ranging conversation that dives into the mindset behind their latest album Cheap Heat, the band’s creative process, and the many layers that make up their sound and identity. Rather than sticking to surface-level promo talk, this interview explores how the band thinks about album construction, influence, environment, collaboration, and longevity—both musically and personally. From unexpected cultural touchstones to the realities of self-producing records, this is a discussion rooted in experience, honesty, and mutual respect. If you’re interested in how bands evolve without boxing themselves into a single genre, how outside perspectives shape great records, or how chemistry inside a band develops over time, this episode offers plenty to chew on—without needing to spell everything out for you upfront. 🤘 Signals From Mars Patrons Huge thanks to the patrons who help keep the show independent and listener-driven: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond Thank you for being so supportive! 🔗 A Wilhelm Scream – Official Links Website: https://www.awilhelmscream.comBandcamp: https://awilhelmscream.bandcamp.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/awilhelmscreamFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/awilhelmscreamX / Twitter: https://x.com/awilhelmscream 🔗 Signals From Mars – Follow & Support Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommarsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SignalsFromMarsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommarsX / Twitter: https://x.com/signalsfrommars

    1h 5m
  7. Hoexed

    FEB 20

    Hoexed

    In Signals From Mars – Episode 443, I’m joined by Kat Keo of Hoaxed to talk about the band’s latest album, Death Knocks, and the evolution of their sound and lineup. We get into the sonic jump you’ll hear on this record, the creative process behind bringing April Dimmick into the fold, how that changed what the band can do musically, and how Death Knocks came together after Two Shadows. We also dig into genre labels (hard rock / heavy metal / gothic rock), the realities of coming from the Pacific Northwest, what it means having Relapse Records behind the band, and—most importantly—where you should buy the album to best support the band directly. If you’re into dark, heavy music with atmosphere and hooks, this one’s for you. #SignalsFromMars #Hoaxed #HeavyMetal Thank you to my patrons: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond Thank you for being so supportive! Hoaxed / Kat Keo Links Hoaxed Official Site: https://www.hoaxedband.comBandcamp: https://hoaxed.bandcamp.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoaxedband/ Kat Keo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kat_keo/ Relapse (Album / Store info) Relapse album page: https://www.relapse.com/pages/hoaxed-death-knocks Signals From Mars Links Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.comPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommarsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SignalsFromMarsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommarsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsX/Twitter: https://twitter.com/signalsfrommars

    30 min
  8. January 2026 Albums Review

    FEB 18

    January 2026 Albums Review

    Signals From Mars – Episode 442 January 2026 Albums Review Episode 442 kicks off the 2026 album review season. Victor is joined by Jeremy (UK) and Ed (Kentucky) to discuss selected hard rock and heavy metal releases from January 2026. The month starts slow following the holidays, but quickly builds momentum with several notable releases across thrash, sludge, symphonic metal, traditional heavy metal, and underground death metal. Rather than covering everything released, the show focuses on the albums that stood out most to the panel — including both major releases and lesser-known underground records. Each host shares their personal Album of the Week selections, offering insight into what made those records rise above the rest. If you’re looking for a curated guide to January’s most talked-about metal releases, Episode 442 delivers exactly that. Thank You to Our Patrons Signals From Mars is supported by listeners like you. Special thanks to: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond Your continued support keeps the show independent and growing. Join the Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars Connect with Signals From Mars Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SignalsFromMars Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommars X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/signalsfrommars Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or your preferred podcast platform.

    1h 12m
See All (452)

4.4
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

All types of hard rock and metal interviews and music discussions since 2009. Visit us at www.signalsfrommars.com. Linktr.ee/signalsfrommars patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Information

  • Creator
    Victor M. Ruiz
  • Years Active
    2010 - 2026
  • Episodes
    452
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2009 - 2023 www.signalsfrommars.com
  • Show Website
    Signals From Mars Podcast

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