The Metal Maniacs Podcast

The Metal Maniacs-Jason Ingersoll, Nick Modd

Welcome to The Metal Maniacs Podcast, the ultimate destination for extreme metal enthusiasts! 🤘🎸 Nick Modd and Jason Ingersoll, your dedicated hosts, are lifelong metalheads with a burning desire to share their love for this genre with fellow metal enthusiasts. With years of experience as musicians, fans, and scholars of the genre, we bring a unique perspective to the table. From in-depth biographies, reviews, and exclusive interviews with metal artists to insightful discussions about the genre's evolution. Metal Maniacs is your go-to source for all things (extreme) metal.

  1. Dog Skull Interview (2026) | Heavy Post‑Hardcore from  Michigan | The Metal Maniacs Podcast Ep 157 

    2d ago

    Dog Skull Interview (2026) | Heavy Post‑Hardcore from  Michigan | The Metal Maniacs Podcast Ep 157 

    This week on The Metal Maniacs Podcast (Ep 157), host Jay Ingersoll sits down with three‑fourths of heavy post‑hardcore breakout Dog Skull — Brad Jahr (bass), Jackson Filion (guitar), and Chance Reyes (drums) — to talk about life on the road, the grind of DIY touring, and carving a modern sound rooted in underground grit. With Jack (vocals) away this round, the band opens up about everything from their East Coast Tour (4/1 – 4/10) to the writing sessions behind one of Michigan’s freshest heavy releases. Dog Skull has been turning heads across the Midwest with their fusion of raw emotion, groove‑driven riffs, and punk energy — a sound fans of Helmet, Bad Religion, and Trapped Under Ice will instantly connect with. Recorded and produced with the care of veterans who know “clean doesn’t mean soft,” their self‑titled LP (released July 17, 2025) cements them as a serious force in the heavy underground movement. We dig deep into the band’s inception and influences, how each member contributes to the crisp production and tight live chemistry, and what keeps them motivated to chase authenticity in a saturated heavy scene. Expect laughs, road stories, and insight into how these guys balance brutal honesty and unshakable fun in their songwriting. 💿 Dog Skull (Self‑Titled, 2025) – Highlights Discussed 1. The Old Man The Boat – Catchy opener with thunderous bass and syncopated drum drive. 2. Pressure – Raw punk energy and tasteful vox placement discussion. 3. Face of God – Hooks for days + the “friends support builds momentum” chat. 4. Animal Race – High‑energy intro to groove transition breakdown. 5. So Perfect – Nu‑metal adjacent rhythms & creative guitar textures. 6. Tied To – Bass stops and bridge breakdown highlight (must‑listen). 7. Excuse for an End – Heavier take with descending riffs and samples. 8. No Friend of Mine – Disco‑beat meets Static X vibes; non‑stop vocals. 9. None, the Wiser – Grunge‑inspired bends and rock drive closer. 🗣️ Interview Segments - Band origin story & West Michigan roots - Creative process and riff building - Songwriting dynamics and production style - Post‑tour decompression and future plans - Favorite shows and road moments - Top heavy records that shaped each member - Life outside band  🎸☠️ ⚙️ SEO Tags / Keywords Dog Skull Podcast, Dog Skull Interview, West Michigan Post Hardcore Band, Michigan Metal Scene, Underground Hardcore 2026, Metal Maniacs Podcast, Heavy Bands 2026, Post Hardcore 2026, Dog Skull Tour, Midwest Heavy Music, Musicians Interview Podcast, Metal Podcast Dog Skull, New Hardcore 2026, Heavy Post‑Hardcore Band Interview 🔗 Listen / Follow-https://dogskull.bandcamp.com/ 🎧Get episodes early-⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcast⁠ ▶️Follow us here-⁠https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnC⁠ 📸 Support Our Sponsor- ⁠https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/ ⁠ About The Show: The Metal Maniacs Podcast is the Midwest’s underground source for all things heavy — from black, death and hardcore to punk and post‑metal. Hosted by Jay Ingersoll, we sit down with bands, creators, and scene lifers who keep heavy music alive. Every episode dives into the craft behind the chaos — recording stories, gear nerd talk, funny tour moments, and honest discussion about art and life in the underground. 👉 Subscribe, rate & review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube to support independent metal stories. Hit the bell 🔔 on YouTube for new interviews with bands like Dog Skull Get episodes early-https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcast Follow us here-https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnC Support Our Sponsor- https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/

    1h 19m
  2. Metal Maniacs Reaction Series #27 | Circle of Nerves, Unverkalt & Only Human | Hardcore, Post‑Metal & Prog Metal Reactions

    May 28

    Metal Maniacs Reaction Series #27 | Circle of Nerves, Unverkalt & Only Human | Hardcore, Post‑Metal & Prog Metal Reactions

    Sponsers-[https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/](https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/)Get Episodes Early- https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcastWelcome back to Metal Maniacs, hosted by Jay Ingersoll and Modd. This is Reaction Series #27, where we dig into underground submissions and new releases across the heavy spectrum—Stockholm hardcore/powerviolence filth, modern hard rock/metal, tech-heavy metal drops, post-metal darkness, and forward-thinking prog metal. If you’re here for new metal bands, underground heavy music, and honest first-time reactions, you’re in the right place. Drop a comment with the band that hit you the hardest and what we should react to next. Circle of Nerves (Stockholm “filth” / hardcore / powerviolence / nu-metal / HM-2): Music video: https://youtu.be/oj8Me4vwLvQ Cognition (Springfield, MO hard rock/metal w/ female vocals — “The Game”): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cognition417 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BtueEhpqV/ The Omen Machine (new singles): “The Wet Bandits” (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/track/2v1ox2Oa61CySWLRtKyxNq Lyric video: https://youtu.be/IbxDUEEofVA “Delay, Deny, Defend” (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/track/2yjA0JRid7VSwC3jzVQXgj Music video: https://youtu.be/-08zcHZzSos Piss On Christ (links): https://linktr.ee/pissonchrist Scorched Mind (NEPA heavy noise): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scorchedmindband/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@scorchedmindband Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scorchedmindband/ Unverkalt (post-metal w/ blackened edge — “Oath Ov Prometheus”): Video: https://youtu.be/sXOgDZGmu58 Pre-order / pre-save: https://orcd.co/unverkalthereditaire Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/55vU7DZVwI4ks0NpfKDAvK/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@unverkaltofficial/ Only Human (existential prog metal — “Automata”): Video: https://youtu.be/Pn-DFYukecM Pre-order / pre-save: https://orcd.co/onlyhumanplannedobsolescence Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/11Cl9Vdw4xGPUMtcurjgg1 Website: https://onlyhuman.band/ Paradigm Shifter (album demo): https://www.notion.so/2f57f4fbd4ca80e68136f8005bcf3558?pvs=21 Subscribe/follow Metal Maniacs for more metal reactions, underground discoveries, and interviews.

    1h 18m
  3. 🔥 ANNEX VOID Returns | Static Ghost Reaction + New Album Plans | Metal Maniacs Podcast #155 🔥

    May 26

    🔥 ANNEX VOID Returns | Static Ghost Reaction + New Album Plans | Metal Maniacs Podcast #155 🔥

    Episode 155 of the Metal Maniacs Podcast features the return of Detroit progressive metal powerhouse ANNEX VOID. Host Jay Ingersoll reconnects with the band after their last appearance on Episode 84 (Feb 2025), diving into everything that’s changed—from lineup shifts to a sharper, more focused sound. We kick things off by listening to and breaking down their brand new single “Static Ghost”, out everywhere now. The track showcases Annex Void’s signature blend of intricate grooves, harmonic depth, and raw intensity, pushing their sound further into modern progressive metal territory. Hailing from Detroit, MI, ANNEX VOID continues to build momentum after their debut EP Will I Dream (April 5, 2024)—a release that made serious waves with production handled by Jonathan Worgan (Poltergeist) and drum tracking by Eric Sills at Stone Soup Studios. Since then, they’ve shared stages as direct support for Leprous, Greylotus, Conquer Divide, Sarah Longfield, ENMY, and more. We talk about the current lineup: Gabby – Vocals Sam – Bass Rob – Guitar Stu – Drums …and what’s evolved since the last episode, including lineup changes and the departure of former members. (With a cameo appearance from Robby of Ghosts In Motion in the room.) This episode dives deep into: The creative process behind “Static Ghost” Writing and recording their upcoming full-length album Songs that didn’t make the cut—and why How their songwriting approach has changed (and what they’ve unlearned) When it’s “too soon” to start writing again Gear talk including live setup and using the X32 Recent shows (including Mac’s) and building momentum Upheaval Fest appearance and future plans What a true “level up” year looks like for Annex Void Local bands people are sleeping on What they want new listeners in 2026 to feel when hearing them Annex Void continues to carve out a unique lane in the progressive metal scene—balancing technicality with emotion, groove with atmosphere, and precision with chaos. If you’re into forward-thinking heavy music, this is one you don’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen / Subscribe to Metal Maniacs: Get episodes early-https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcast Follow us here-https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnC Support Our Sponsor- https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/ 🔥 Follow ANNEX VOID: https://linktr.ee/annexvoid 💀 Subscribe for weekly interviews, reactions, and deep dives into the underground metal scene. #AnnexVoid #StaticGhost #ProgressiveMetal #MetalPodcast #MetalManiacs #DetroitMetal #UpheavalFest #ProgMetal #NewMetal #UndergroundMetal

    1h 26m
  4. 🔥 WITHHOLD THE BLOOD Interview | Metalcore to Deathcore Evolution | Metal Maniacs Podcast #154 🔥

    May 21

    🔥 WITHHOLD THE BLOOD Interview | Metalcore to Deathcore Evolution | Metal Maniacs Podcast #154 🔥

    In Episode 154 of the Metal Maniacs Podcast, host Jay Ingersoll sits down with Michigan metal veterans Withhold The Blood to break down over 16 years of grinding through the underground scene. From their early inception around 2010 to their latest 2026 single Nation of Fallacy, this episode dives deep into evolution, persistence, and crushing riffs. We talk about the current lineup featuring Jesse (vocals), Eli (drums), and Brandon (guitar), and how the band has stayed alive through lineup changes, limited online presence, and years between releases. Despite the chaos, the passion for heavy music never left. We revisit their early work including the 2014 EP Detached From Reality, featuring long-form songwriting, massive riffs, and vocal highs reminiscent of Randy Blythe. Tracks like “The Chosen” and “Eye For Misery” showcase their early blend of groove, melody, and raw aggression. Then we dig into 2018’s Aberration, where the band leveled up—introducing heavier tones, tighter production, double bass intensity, and stronger deathcore influences. Songs like “Impulse to Kill,” “Broken Dreams,” and “Empty Confessions” highlight their growth in songwriting, rhythm, and technicality. Their newest release, “Nation of Fallacy” (2026), pushes even further—leaning harder into deathcore with relentless vocals, sharp melodic experimentation, and standout guitar work. This track feels like a natural evolution of Aberration while carving a heavier, more refined identity. We also cover: The band’s origin and what kept them going for over a decade Lineup changes including past drummers like Levi Smith, Gary Swaggerty, and Mike Miller Their writing process, riff development, and solo decisions Production approach, tone, gear, and tuning choices Live shows, touring history (including 2019 runs), and recent gigs with Vestigial Practice routines and collaboration dynamics Life outside music, gaming, and influences they’re listening to now What’s next for Withhold The Blood This is a must-listen for fans of metalcore, deathcore, groove metal, and underground heavy music culture. 🎧 Listen / Follow Metal Maniacs: YouTube: Get episodes early-https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcast Follow us here-https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnC Support Our Sponsor- https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/ 🔥 Follow Withhold The Blood: https://open.spotify.com/artist/39bn5UNKbA5W1egRdqBjSg?si=m_7PjAxpQFqtj7ccLv6WFQ 💀 Subscribe for weekly metal interviews, reactions, and deep dives into the underground scene.

    1h 29m
  5. Ghosts In Motion Interview: Nu Metal Revival, Heavy Riffs & New EP | Metal Maniacs Podcast Ep. 154

    May 19

    Ghosts In Motion Interview: Nu Metal Revival, Heavy Riffs & New EP | Metal Maniacs Podcast Ep. 154

    Episode 153 of Metal Maniacs hosted by Jay Ingersoll brings in the chaos with Ghosts In Motion—Robby (vocals), Camm (vocals), Devon (guitar), and Preston (guitar). A 7-piece force out of Flint, Michigan, blending metalcore, rap metal, and nu-metal into something aggressive, raw, and real. We break down what makes this band stand out immediately—vocal variety, insane tones, newer-style riffing, and rock-solid drumming. There’s been talk of “trap metal,” but we call it how it is—this is heavy-first music with just a touch of hip-hop influence, not the other way around. FFO: Periphery, Slipknot, Motionless In White, Nu Metal We dive into the band’s origins, the meaning behind the name, and how a 7-member lineup actually works in a live and writing setting. The conversation hits on their evolving sound, why “2-4-6 is the sweet spot”, and how they balance chaos with precision. We also go deep on their discography and growth: Early energy on NGIS (2019) with rap-metal elements and raw aggression The shift in production and djent influence on The End of Indifference (2021) Slipknot-style groove and breakdown mastery on A Spot of Brother Breakthrough momentum with Unity / Peace (2022) — huge hooks, clean production, standout songwriting Experimental vibes on Dead Beat and Luna Rose Increasing heaviness on Dysfunction (2024) Maturity and vocal evolution on Emotional Damage (2025) Latest single Quicksand (Feb 19, 2026) — a defining track bringing everything together We also talk: Writing process and how riffs, patterns, and hooks come together When and why solos make the cut Guitar tones, tunings, and live setup Production growth over time Touring, best/worst shows, and what’s coming next The upcoming EP dropping later this year Coming out of Flint with grit and intensity, Ghosts In Motion are building serious momentum—sharing stages with bands like Attila, Chelsea Grin, Born of Osiris, and Traitors—and pushing their sound forward without limits. If you’re into modern heavy music that blends groove, emotion, and chaos—this episode is a must. Follow Ghosts in Motion-https://www.facebook.com/ghostsinmotion20 Get episodes early-https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcast Follow us here-https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnC Support Our Sponsor- https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/

    1h 44m
  6. Vestigial Return to Mournlight | Full Album Breakdown of “Shadow Lands” (Epic Concept Album)

    May 12

    Vestigial Return to Mournlight | Full Album Breakdown of “Shadow Lands” (Epic Concept Album)

    Vestigial Return to Mournlight | Full Album Breakdown of “Shadow Lands” (Epic Concept Album)On this episode of The Metal Maniacs Podcast, hosts Jay Ingersoll and Modd welcome back three-time returning guests Vestigial. Mike, Tyler, and Joey return to the show to dive deep into their most ambitious and fully realized work to date — the massive new album Shadow Lands.Vestigial first joined us on Episode 34 (March 5, 2024) and again on Episode 73 (November 26, 2024), and this third appearance feels like a true milestone. With Shadow Lands, the band delivers a 17-track epic that blends extreme metal, melody, atmosphere, and orchestration into what can only be described as high-brow heavy art.“Descend Alone” is available now, serving as the gateway into the cursed kingdom of Mournlight — a world sealed beneath the earth and plagued by eternal suffering. The album was created in collaboration with Dungeon Synth pioneer Witch Bolt, acclaimed voice actor Christopher Tester, and features a guest appearance from Steven Jones of Bleed From Within.Throughout the episode, we break down the concept, story, sequencing, and performances behind the record, track by track. From crushing riffs and razor-sharp death metal to soaring clean vocals, cinematic narration, and orchestral layers, Shadow Lands is packed with dynamics, groove, and unforgettable moments.We talk about:Writing and sequencing a full concept albumBuilding the narrative of the Shadow Lands and the Lamenter lettersCollaborations and guest featuresGuitar harmonies, bass tone, drum dynamics, and orchestrationBalancing catchiness with complexityGrowth since their last two appearancesTouring plans, including hitting the road with RiversHow Vestigial continues to evolve while staying unmistakably themselvesProduction is top-tier, the bass tone is massive, and the performances feel deliberate and powerful across the entire runtime. Whether it’s blistering tremolo riffs, unexpected grooves, clean vocal hooks, or full cinematic moments, this record demands front-to-back listening.Shadow Lands Tracklist Highlights Include:“Descend Alone,” “Water Grave,” “Moonshaker Manifesto,” “A Quiet Place to Hide (ft. Steven Jones of Bleed From Within),” “Clockwork,” “Halos to Nooses,” and the epic closing stretch that brings listeners back to the Shadow Lands one final time.If you’re into concept albums, modern extreme metal, melody-driven heaviness, and ambitious storytelling, this episode is a must-listen.Descend — and return death to this cursed kingdom. 🤘Follow Vestigial-https://open.spotify.com/artist/14igLBpjfaSvsrah0LDbWOGet episodes early-https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcastFollow us here-https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnCSupport Our Sponsor- https://www.starkrealestatemi.com/

    2h 13m
  7. 🔥 NEW METAL RELEASES 2026 (April) | Archspire, Immolation, Nervosa + MORE | Metal Maniacs Exclusive

    May 8 ·  Bonus

    🔥 NEW METAL RELEASES 2026 (April) | Archspire, Immolation, Nervosa + MORE | Metal Maniacs Exclusive

    In This Patreon-exclusive episode of The Metal Maniacs hosted by Jay Ingersoll dives deep into the heaviest releases from March and April 2026. We break down underground gems, major releases, brutal death metal, technical death metal, metalcore, and black metal while giving honest, no-BS reactions for real metal fans. This is our monthly Patreon-only series where supporters get exclusive episodes, can join the conversation, and recommend albums for future reviews. In this episode we cover: Egregore – It Echoes In The Wild Poison The Well – Peace In Place The Good Depression – Where Grace Won’t Grow Gore Machine – Congealed And Foaming Protrusion – The Last Suppuration Only Human – Planned Obsolescence Party Cannon – Subjected To A Partying Rivers Ablaze – In External Dread Corrosion Of Conformity – Good God / Baad Man Nervosa – Slave Machine Bloody Valkyria – Requiem: Reveries Of The Dying Winterfylleth – The Unyielding Season Multiwomb – Anatomy Of Gorelus Obscure Fate – Shades Of A Dying World Mutilation BBQ – Flesh Regenerated Bilmuri – Kinda Hard Rats Will Feast – An Evocation Archspire – Too Fast To Die Immolation – Descent Inferi – Heaven Wept Bodysnatcher – Hell Is Here, Hell Is Home gif from god – Dissimulation The Last Ten Seconds Of Life – The Dead Ones Pissrot – Absolute Form Reeking Aura – On The Promise Of The Moon Ethereal Darkness – Echos Malum – From The Voids At The Gates – The Ghost Of A Future Dead Resistor – Bite This! Obey The Kraken – Apocrypha EP Terror – Still Suffer Sepultura – The Cloud Of Unknowing Sectarian Defacement – Hostile Consuming Rapture Worship The Sacrifice – Veil Of Revelations From filthy underground death metal to polished modern metalcore and everything in between—this is one of the most stacked months of 2026 so far. 👉 Get episodes early-https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcast 👉 Follow us here-https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnC 👉 Support Our Sponsor- https://www.starkrealestatemi.com If you’re into **death metal, black metal, metalcore, hardcore, and extreme music reviews**, this is your monthly fix. #MetalPodcast #DeathMetal2026 #Metalcore #BlackMetal #AlbumReview #Archspire #Immolation #Nervosa #MetalManiacs

    1h 4m
  8. Erikk Stroude Returns: Morbosidad Tour & Black Temple Album | Metal Maniacs Ep. 151

    May 5

    Erikk Stroude Returns: Morbosidad Tour & Black Temple Album | Metal Maniacs Ep. 151

    Episode 151 of Metal Maniacs hosted by Jay Ingersoll and Modd welcomes back a longtime homie and 3-time returning guest—Erikk Stroude. A producer, guitarist, and relentless drummer deeply rooted in extreme metal, Erikk lives and breathes the underground. We tap into his journey since Episode 79 (Jan 7, 2025) and go even further back to Episode 26 with The Black Temple. A full year later, we break down everything happening now—and what’s taking priority across his growing list of projects. With Morbosidad returning from a Mexico and Colombia tour . Erikk talks about the grind, preparation, and what it means to reach this level after years of dedication. From international shows to upcoming US dates, a new split record, and the early writing stages of a new Morbosidad full-length, there’s no slowing down. We also dive deep into: The evolution of The Black Temple and the long-awaited full-length album Belial Infernum, Mercenario, and Underground Onslaught His one-man project Apocalypse Devastator 666 (dropping March 1, 2026 via Blasphemous Spawn Records) Writing, recording, gear, and production approaches on THe Black Temple Album Tracks like Altar of Rotting Flesh, Black Wings of Grace, and Eradication Ritual Touring experiences and what’s next. This is a raw, no-BS conversation about commitment to extreme metal, underground culture, and pushing forward no matter what. Watch/Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDM_7z-GKQ8 More on Morbosidad: https://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Morbosidad/4297 Blasphemous Spawn Records: http://www.blasphemousspawnrecords.bandcamp.com/ Apocalypse Devastator 666: https://www.facebook.com/ApocalypseDevastator666 Subscribe, like, and follow Metal Maniacs for more interviews, reactions, and deep dives into extreme metal. Get episodes early-https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheMetalManiacsPodcast Follow us here-https://tr.ee/YA-9eUZGnC Support Our Sponsor- #MetalManiacs #ExtremeMetal #BlackMetal #DeathMetal #Morbosidad #UndergroundMetal #MetalPodcast #ErikkStroude #BlackTemple #BelialInfernum Follow Us-https://linktr.ee/metalmaniacsmi

    1h 10m

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Metal Maniacs Podcast, the ultimate destination for extreme metal enthusiasts! 🤘🎸 Nick Modd and Jason Ingersoll, your dedicated hosts, are lifelong metalheads with a burning desire to share their love for this genre with fellow metal enthusiasts. With years of experience as musicians, fans, and scholars of the genre, we bring a unique perspective to the table. From in-depth biographies, reviews, and exclusive interviews with metal artists to insightful discussions about the genre's evolution. Metal Maniacs is your go-to source for all things (extreme) metal.