A-Sides

Episode 169 - Scott Stevens

Episode 169 of A-SIDES features a special follow-up with songwriter, producer, and frontman for The Exies, Scott Stevens. In what was intended to be a conversation on "comfort songs", this became something greater as Scott shared about influential figures throughout his life, lessons learned, his process of songwriting, and even the 20th anniversary on The Exies' Head For The Door album.
You can experience The Exies' next performance at the Machine Shop in Flint, MI on November 9th, 2024. Purchase tickets here.
Also stay up-to-date with future Exies performances, news, and merch through their website.
Huge thanks to Scott for another conversation on A-SIDES and thanks to all who listen.
 

Episode 168 - Nikki Stringfield

Accomplished and award-winning guitarist Nikki Stringfield is about to celebrate the 1-year anniversary of her solo album Apocrypha. For Episode 168 of A-SIDES, she not only shares details about her own music, but plans for the release of Heaven Below's new album, her love of Avenged Sevenfold, balancing work and life, and more!
Follow Nikki on her website for tour dates, merch, and more! You can find Heaven Below on Facebook and their social pages for links to dates with Marty Friedman and news on their upcoming album, The Majestic Twelve.
Thanks Nikki for returning to A-SIDES!

Episode 167 - Wrex Horton

Last fall on a tour stop in Canada, Wrex Horton (vocalist of Flat Black) appeared on A-SIDES' Episode 136 and was on foot for an exciting conversation. This time we catch up with Wrex in his studio following the release of Dark Side Of The Brain, Flat Black's immensely anticipated studio debut. Wrex shares his favorite songs, lessons he's learned as a member of the band, the Paris Olympics, touring with Godsmack, and more!
Stay updated on all things Flat Black by visiting their website here. You can also purchase their album through their web store or stream it on your favorite app.
Thanks to Wrex for coming back onto the podcast, thanks to the Flat Black team, and to everyone who pushes play on Episode 167!

Episode 166 - 80's Movie Soundtracks

Expanding on a previous discussion with Denny Smith about his favorite movie soundtrack, Episode 166 explores the entire decade of 1980's soundtracks! We share a few noteworthy albums along with topics ranging from buying albums to acquire a specific rare track, the all-too-brief discography of Andy Taylor, 80's revivals of Eric Carmen and Tina Turner, plus a surprising connection to Dave Bickler, and what this has to do with a specific oiled-up saxophone player!
Huge thanks to Denny for making his most-triumphant 8th appearance on A-SIDES and thanks to everyone who listens!

Episode 165 - Cris Hodges

Cris Hodges was originally on A-SIDES at the early part of 2023 for Episode 117, just as he was about to embark on tours opening for Alter Bridge, Fozzy, and Ugly Kid Joe. On this episode, Cris shares interactions and lessons learned on the road, joining Grey Daze, performing the Collision Course songs with In The End and their guest Avery Hardin, finding peace, and maintaining positive mental health. It was a blasting having Cris back for Episode 165!
Cris will be out this fall with Grey Daze, and you can stay updated on their tour plans and more, by visiting their website.
He also performs with In The End, a California-based Linkin Park Experience, which will be embarking on a tour this fall celebrating the recent Papercuts compilation. Check them out here!
 

Episode 164 - James Black

James Black from Finger Eleven joins A-SIDES for a huge discussion on collecting vinyl records, 007 movie scores, creating a song for 2003's Daredevil movie, marrying visual art with music, and more!
One of the biggest tours of Summer 2024 is the return of Creed, along with Finger Eleven and 3 Doors Down as opening acts. You can follow along with Finger Eleven through their tour dates at their website. Huge thanks to James for taking time to chat before the band embarks on this huge summer tour. Thanks for listening to Episode 164 of A-SIDES!

Episode 163 - Nick Perri

While music itself is already a shared passion, a recurring theme between guests and hosts alike seems to be Cheap Trick. The special guest for A-SIDES Episode 163, Nick Perri, is no different. Not only does he love Cheap Trick, he's even toured with and interviewed founding member Rick Nielsen. We discuss Nick's inspirations and favorite artists, his own music, methods to center yourself, and we barely scratch the surface of Nick's expansive record collection.
Huge thanks to Nick for being a guest and sharing his stories. He dropped a new song - "Sunset to Sunset (Electric)", which can be found on many streaming platforms or at this link. You can also stay updated on Nick through his website and you can even become a Patreon here.
Thanks for listening!

Episode 162 - Invincible Shield

Episode 162 of A-SIDES features returning guest and heavy metal enthusiast, Marc Sasso! We not only discuss several of our favorite tracks from Judas Priest's latest album Invincible Shield, but also stolen cassettes, the day Rob Halford departed Judas Priest, the perfect song for speeding in your car, Ghost, Metallica's Kill Em All, and more!
Huge thanks to Marc for making his second appearance on A-SIDES and to everyone who listens!
Mixing heavy metal and graphic illustrations is not only a passion for Marc Sasso, it's also his career. He's crafted artwork for Dio, Rob Halford, and more! Check out his website here: http://www.marcsasso.com/