Best Chris DeMakes & Sound Talent Media Podcasts (2024)

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Throwback Thursday: Fat Mike discusses NOFX's "The Decline" (Part 2) 1:10:18

1h ago1:10:18

1:10:18

In this Throwback Thursday episode, Fat Mike returns for Part 2 of the deep dive into NOFX’s 18-minute punk rock epic, The Decline. Continuing where Part 1 left off, Mike shares more about the song’s intricate composition, its politically charged message, and the intense recording process that pushed the boundaries of punk music. Originally airing …

1
Ep. 233: Joe Queer discusses The Queers "Punk Rock Girls" 1:07:20

42m ago1:07:20

1:07:20

In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Joe Queer discusses the writing and recording of the fan-favorite 1996 single from The Queers, "Punk Rock Girls." Throughout this conversation, Joe reflects on the spontaneous and fun process behind writing the song, as well as the unique recording techniques that gave The Queers their signature sound. He tal…

1
Throwback Thursday: Fat Mike discusses NOFX's "The Decline" (Part 1) 1:03:51

5d ago1:03:51

1:03:51

In this special Throwback Thursday episode, Fat Mike opens up about the writing and recording of NOFX’s ambitious punk rock opus, "The Decline"—an 18-minute, single-track masterpiece that challenges political, social, and cultural norms with biting lyrics and intricate musicianship. Originally aired on June 12, 2023, this is Part 1 of a 2-part seri…

1
Ep. 232: Matt Scannell discusses Vertical Horizon's "Everything You Want" 1:16:25

3d ago1:16:25

1:16:25

In this episode, Vertical Horizon vocalist and guitarist Matt Scannell discusses the writing and recording of their chart-topping hit "Everything You Want," which reached #1 on the US Hot 100 in July 2000. Matt shares the personal experiences and emotions that inspired the song’s introspective lyrics, focusing on themes of unrequited love and self-…

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Throwback Thursday: Christian "MC Bat Commander" Jacobs discusses The Aquabats "Super Rad!" 1:26:54

7d ago1:26:54

1:26:54

For this week's Throwback Thursday episode, we're throwing it all the way back to November 1st, 2021, when Christian Jacobs (aka MC Bat Commander) sat in to discuss the writing and recording of the fan favorite 1997 single from The Aquabats, "Super Rad!" From child actor to creating children's television himself, Christian's story is as fascinating…

1
Ep. 231: Nick Thomas discusses The Spill Canvas "All Over You" 1:21:24

10d ago1:21:24

1:21:24

This week, Nick Thomas sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the 2007 fan favorite single from The Spill Canvas, "All Over You." In this deep dive, Nick shares the emotions and experiences that shaped the song’s lyrics, exploring themes of infatuation, longing, and unrequited love. Together, he and Chris break down the track’s musical ele…

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THE THUNDRED: The Top 100 Albums of All Time (#100 - #81) 1:10:37

12d ago1:10:37

1:10:37

One Hit Thunder’s THE THUNDRED is here! This five-part series kicks off in this episode, where hosts Chris Fafalios and Matt Kelly begin the countdown of the top 100 albums of all time. Compiled from the input of over 100 music industry insiders and passionate listeners, the list spans a diverse range of genres and eras. In this first installment, …

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "The Worst Songs Ever?" episode 54:59

13d ago54:59

54:59

In this sneak preview episode of The After Party that was originally released on November 6, 2021, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios dive into some of music’s most notorious tracks — the songs often deemed the "worst" ever. With their unique mix of humor and insight, they dissect what makes these tunes so divisive and give their own verdicts on whet…

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Throwback Thursday: Art Alexakis discusses Everclear's "Santa Monica" 1:22:26

14d ago1:22:26

1:22:26

"I am still living with your GHOST" — fitting words for a Halloween edition of Chris DeMakes A Podcast! In this special Throwback Thursday episode from October 31, 2022, Art Alexakis of Everclear dives deep into the hauntingly memorable 1995 single “Santa Monica.” Art shares the inspiration and recording journey behind the song, which captures the …

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Ep. 230: Michael Bishop aka Blöthar the Berserker discusses GWAR's "The Road Behind" 1:08:56

17d ago1:08:56

1:08:56

This week, Michael Bishop aka Blöthar the Berserker sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the fan favorite 1992 single from GWAR, "The Road Behind." Michael and Chris dive into the song's creation, unpacking the lyrics, instrumentation, and unique production choices that set it apart in GWAR's catalog. They explore the band's history, the…

1
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “Best Opening Tracks of the 90s” episode 38:10

21d ago38:10

38:10

In this week’s special SNEAK PREVIEW episode of The After Party, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios are joined by One Hit Thunder producer and co-host Matt Kelly to discuss the best opening tracks of 90s albums. They dive into a diverse selection of songs from iconic bands and artists like Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Wu-Tang Clan, Björk, and Beck, ex…

1
Ep. 229: A discussion on Dolores O'Riordan and The Cranberries "Zombie" 59:36

1M ago59:36

59:36

In this week's special episode, Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios dive into the hit 1994 single "Zombie" by The Cranberries, written by the late Dolores O'Riordan. They explore the song’s powerful blend of heavy music and poignant lyrics, addressing the conflict in Northern Ireland, and reflect on the immense talent of Dolores, who …

1
Ep. 228: Dave Pirner discusses Soul Asylum's "Misery" 54:46

1M ago54:46

54:46

This week, Dave Pirner returns to the show to discuss the writing and recording of Soul Asylum's hit 1995 single "Misery." In this insightful conversation, Dave reveals the inspiration behind the song's biting critique of corporate America and the record industry. He shares how the band experimented with recording equipment during this period, enjo…

1
Ep. 227: Anthony Raneri discusses Bayside's "Sick, Sick, Sick" 1:21:45

1M ago1:21:45

1:21:45

This week, Chris is joined by Bayside guitarist and vocalist Anthony Raneri to discuss the writing and recording of the fan favorite 2011 single "Sick, Sick, Sick." Together, they dive into the band's signing with Wind-up Records, working with legendary producer Gil Norton, and the inspiration behind the song's lyrics. Anthony and Chris break down …

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Ep. 226: JJ Wilde discusses her song "Best of Me" 1:05:58

2M ago1:05:58

1:05:58

This week, JJ Wilde sits in to discuss her 2024 single "Best of Me," offering an intimate look into the song's creation and the personal journey that inspired it. JJ dives deep into the duality of embracing chaos and striving for self-growth, sharing how her experiences with recklessness and resilience shaped the song’s lyrics. She also explores th…

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Ep. 225: Joseph Milligan discusses Anberlin’s “Feel Good Drag” 1:07:30

2M ago1:07:30

1:07:30

This week, Anberlin guitarist Joseph Milligan joins Chris DeMakes to discuss the writing and recording of their hit 2008 single "Feel Good Drag." The song, which was initially intended as a fun re-recording of a track from an earlier album, wasn't even meant to be on the New Surrender album. However, it went on to become the band’s widely acclaimed…

1
Ep. 224: Mike Edwards discusses Jesus Jones “Right Here, Right Now” 1:15:20

2M ago1:15:20

1:15:20

This week, Mike Edwards sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the 1991 hit single from Jesus Jones, “Right Here, Right Now." The conversation explores the creation and impact of the song, including the inspiration behind it and the cultural context of the time. Mike opens up about the poignant lyrics, highlighting references to Tracy Chap…

1
Ep. 223: Dr. Frank discusses The Mr. T Experience’s “Ba Ba Ba Ba Ba” 1:08:07

2M ago1:08:07

1:08:07

This week, Frank Portman — better known as Dr. Frank — sits in to dive into the creation of the fan favorite 1996 single "Ba Ba Ba Ba Ba" by The Mr. T Experience. Inspired by The Partridge Family, the song was initially imagined as a folk tune arranged by a rock band. Dr. Frank discusses how the lyrics explore themes of doubt and finding a place fo…

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Ep. 222: Pete Koller discusses Sick Of It All's "Injustice System!" 1:01:29

3M ago1:01:29

1:01:29

In this episode, guitarist Pete Koller of Sick Of It All dives deep into the writing, recording, and inspiration behind the band's classic fan favorite song "Injustice System!" This enduring anthem was born from a violent run-in with crooked law enforcement in the late '80s, and it continues to resonate long after the events that inspired it. Pete …

1
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "European Tour Report and Trivia" episode 34:00

3M ago34:00

34:00

In this special sneak preview episode of The After Party, Chris DeMakes reports back on the European Less Than Jake tour, while Chris Fafalios challenges him with music trivia questions about all the places he visited. If you'd like to get episodes like this every week, PLUS a giant back catalog of HUNDREDS of After Party episodes, head to http://w…

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Ep. 221: Trevor Reilly discusses A Wilhelm Scream's "Boat Builders" 1:21:26

3M ago1:21:26

1:21:26

This week, A Wilhelm Scream guitarist Trevor Reilly sits in to discuss the creation of their fan-favorite 2013 single, “Boat Builders.” Trevor dives into the song’s seamless blend of metal, punk rock, and thrash, revealing how its diverse influences come together to create a powerful and unique sound. He also shares the personal connection behind t…

1
Ep. 220: Tracyanne Campbell discusses Camera Obscura's "Lloyd, I'm Ready to Be Heartbroken" 1:00:35

3M ago1:00:35

1:00:35

This week, Chris is joined by Tracyanne Campbell of the Scottish indie pop band Camera Obscura to explore the creation of their fan-favorite 2006 single, "Lloyd, I'm Ready to Be Heartbroken." Tracyanne shares the story behind the song, a heartfelt response to Lloyd Cole & The Commotions' 1984 track "Are You Ready to Be Heartbroken?"—a band she had …

1
Ep. 219: Jose Prieto discusses MakeWar's "Oh, Brother" 59:16

3M ago59:16

59:16

In this episode, Jose Prieto of MakeWar opens up about the creation of their 2019 fan favorite single, “Oh, Brother.” He discusses how the song’s unorthodox structure results from the song just flowing out of him, inspired by a deep connection to both his younger self and his younger brother. Jose also sheds light on collaborating with Brett “The R…

1
Ep. 218: A discussion on The Outfield's "Your Love" 52:41

4M ago52:41

52:41

In this episode, host Chris DeMakes and producer Chris Fafalios reminisce about The Outfield's unforgettable 1986 hit single, "Your Love." They pay tribute to guitarist and backing vocalist John Spinks and lead singer/bassist Tony Lewis, highlighting their immense talent and the lasting impact of their music despite their untimely passing. The duo …

1
Ep. 217: Aaron Bruno discusses AWOLNATION's "Sail" 1:23:53

4M ago1:23:53

1:23:53

In this episode, Aaron Bruno discusses the creation of AWOLNATION's 2011 hit single "Sail," offering an inside look at his songwriting process during a challenging period in his life. Aaron shares how he was in a very low place when he wrote the song, using it as an opportunity to break free from traditional songwriting constraints and express hims…

1
Ep. 216: Jorge Casillas discusses Voodoo Glow Skulls "Shoot The Moon" 1:02:56

4M ago1:02:56

1:02:56

In this episode, Voodoo Glow Skulls bassist Jorge Casillas offers a look into the making of their beloved 1995 track "Shoot The Moon". Known for its explosive energy and eerily prophetic lyrics about societal stagnation, Jorge discusses the band's early songwriting instincts and their attitude of not knowing or caring about formulaic approaches. He…

1
Ep. 215: Ace Enders discusses The Early November's "Decoration" 1:03:56

4M ago1:03:56

1:03:56

In this episode, Ace Enders sits in to discuss the creation of The Early November's fan-favorite single, "Decoration." Hailing from their ambitious 2006 triple disc concept album, The Mother, The Mechanic, And The Path, "Decoration" captures a raw, vintage essence that resonates with listeners. Ace shares insights into the writing and recording pro…

1
Ep. 214: Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick discusses Fitz and The Tantrums "Out of My League" 1:09:28

5M ago1:09:28

1:09:28

Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick sits in this week to discuss the writing and recording of the hit 2013 single from Fitz and The Tantrums, "Out of My League." In this episode, Fitz opens up about his long road to success in the music industry, a journey initially met with substantial rejection. He du=ives into how he carved his own path, honing his produ…

1
Ep. 213: John Kastner discusses Doughboys "Shine" 58:17

5M ago58:17

58:17

In this episode, host Chris DeMakes sits down with John Kastner to dive into the writing and recording of the 1993 Doughboys single "Shine". As Chris’s favorite band, this conversation is a true delight for him and listeners alike. Kastner reveals the surprising inspiration behind the song, while reflecting on how Doughboys crafted a sound that was…

1
Ep. 212: Greg Camp discusses Smash Mouth's "All Star" 1:04:56

5M ago1:04:56

1:04:56

In this episode, listeners are invited to join Greg Camp, the musical maestro behind Smash Mouth's iconic 1999 hit single "All Star," as he takes them on a journey back to the song’s origins. As the episode unfolds, Greg shares exclusive insights into the writing and recording process of the beloved anthem, treating fans to the never-before-heard d…

1
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "80s Hard/Soft Summer Rock Playlist" episode 33:49

5M ago33:49

33:49

In this episode of The After Party, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they create the ultimate summer playlist. Each Chris picks a standout song from every summer of the 1980s, with DeMakes choosing hard rock anthems and Fafalios selecting soft rock classics. Tune in to hear their dynamic discussion as they …

1
Ep. 211: Alan Benjamin Thomas and Steven Rutherford discuss joan's "want u back" 1:08:19

5M ago1:08:19

1:08:19

In this episode, Alan Benjamin Thomas and Steven Rutherford sit in to shed light on the creative process behind joan’s infectious 2021 single “want u back”. The indie-pop duo out of Little Rock provide insight into the crafting of the uptempo anthem that resonates with audiences worldwide. By fearlessly incorporating any musical element that lends …

1
Ep. 210: A discussion on Andrew Gold and his song "Thank You for Being a Friend" 56:55

5M ago56:55

56:55

Join host Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios as they embark on a musical exploration of Andrew Gold's iconic 1978 single "Thank You for Being a Friend" in this week's episode. While most listeners may recognize it as the beloved theme song from The Golden Girls, DeMakes and Fafalios dive into the rich layers of this timeless track, u…

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Ep. 209: Matt Skiba discusses Alkaline Trio's "Time to Waste" 1:10:33

6M ago1:10:33

1:10:33

In this episode, Alkaline Trio guitarist and vocalist Matt Skiba takes listeners behind the scenes of the band's fan favorite 2005 single, "Time to Waste". Matt opens up about the writing and recording process, shedding light on the band's bold approach to incorporating big production elements, exemplified by the haunting piano intro that sets the …

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Ep. 208: Sonny Sandoval discusses P.O.D.'s "Youth of the Nation" 1:11:38

6M ago1:11:38

1:11:38

P.O.D. vocalist Sonny Sandoval sat in for this episode in which listeners are invited to explore the creation of their iconic 2001 hit single, "Youth of the Nation." Against the backdrop of tragedies like Columbine and other shootings that shook the nation, Sandoval shares how the band was inspired to craft a powerful and inspiring anthem that reso…

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Ep. 207: Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn discuss Local Natives "When Am I Gonna Lose You" 1:08:15

6M ago1:08:15

1:08:15

In this episode, Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn of Local Natives unveil the behind-the-scenes journey of crafting their 2019 single, "When Am I Gonna Lose You." They reveal that the song underwent a staggering 57 different versions, each a labor of love to achieve perfection. From Taylor's raw personal inspiration to Ryan's lyrical contributions and pro…

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Ep. 206: Craig Wedren discusses Shudder to Think's "X-French Tee Shirt" 1:18:19

6M ago1:18:19

1:18:19

Embark on a journey of musical innovation with Craig Wedren as he unravels the mysteries behind Shudder To Think's iconic 1994 single, "X-French Tee Shirt.” From the band's relentless pursuit of originality to the song's jarring yet hypnotic structure, Craig takes listeners deep into the creative process, offering unparalleled insights into its unc…

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Ep. 205: Jacoby Shaddix discusses Papa Roach's "Last Resort" 1:15:49

7M ago1:15:49

1:15:49

In this episode, Papa Roach vocalist Jacoby Shaddix shares insights into the inspiration, creation, and recording of the band's enduring 2000 hit single, "Last Resort." Drawing from a deeply personal experience where a friend faced a crisis, Jacoby discusses the song's emotional origins and its lasting resonance with listeners. With humility, he re…

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Ep. 204: Joshua Fleming discusses Vandoliers "Every Saturday Night" 58:28

7M ago58:28

58:28

In this episode, Vandoliers vocalist and guitarist Joshua Fleming takes listeners behind the scenes of the band's 2021 single "Every Saturday Night." Written during the height of the pandemic as a means to uplift his friends, Joshua shares the heartfelt story of its creation. With fans' support, the band secured a day in the studio to record the so…

1
Ep. 203: Zac Barnett discusses American Authors "Best Day of My Life" 1:10:45

7M ago1:10:45

1:10:45

In this episode, American Authors vocalist and guitarist Zac Barnett invites listeners behind the curtain of their 2013 smash hit single "Best Day of My Life." He shares stories about the song's creation and recording process, offering insights into its enduring popularity over the past decade. Despite its lasting presence in commercials and its ab…

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Ep. 202: Page Hamilton discusses Helmet's "Unsung" 1:23:24

7M ago1:23:24

1:23:24

Helmet frontman Page Hamilton sits in this week to share the writing and recording process behind the band’s iconic 1992 single “Unsung.” He vividly recounts the genesis of the track, even recalling the exact desk where he crafted its unforgettable riffs. Page also unravels the often abstract lyrics that have sparked intrigue and interpretations fo…

1
Ep. 201: A discussion on Kurt Cobain and Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box" 54:13

8M ago54:13

54:13

In honor of the 30th anniversary of Kurt Cobain's passing, this week's episode pays homage to the legendary songwriter by dissecting Nirvana's monumental hit single "Heart-Shaped Box”. Joining as co-host is Chris Fafalios, the producer of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, who brings his unique perspective to unravel the unconventional brilliance of the song…

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Too Much Effing Perspective: Less Than Jake's Chris DeMakes - Winning the Rock 'n' Roll Lottery 40:33

8M ago40:33

40:33

Chris DeMakes was recently the guest on Too Much Effing Perspective, another great podcast on the Evergreen Podcasts network. The show is hosted by Allen Keller and Alex Hofmann, and together they dive deep into their guests' harrowing, humbling, and hilarious Spinal Tap moments on the road. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe to Too Mu…

1
Ep. 200: Chris Ballew discusses The Presidents of the United States of America's "Peaches" 1:10:37

8M ago1:10:37

1:10:37

To celebrate 200 episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, Chris Ballew makes his triumphant return, this time to discuss the writing and recording of The Presidents of the United States of America’s 1996 hit “Peaches”. He recalls the fascinating journey behind this iconic track, from the spark of inspiration while tripping under a peach tree in the ear…

1
Ep. 199: Chuck Ragan discusses Hot Water Music's "Drag My Body" 1:06:50

8M ago1:06:50

1:06:50

In this week's episode, Chuck Ragan unveils the writing and recording process behind Hot Water Music's 2012 single "Drag My Body." The track showcases Chuck's iconic vocals, a defining element of the band's sound, which play a central role in driving its emotional depth. Additionally, Chuck emphasizes the collective musical prowess of the band, hig…

1
Ep. 198: Ray Carlisle discusses Teenage Bottlerocket's "Everything to Me" 54:38

8M ago54:38

54:38

In this episode, Teenage Bottlerocket's Ray Carlisle provides an insightful look into the creation process of the band's 2019 single, "Everything To Me". With heartfelt candor, Ray shares the personal inspiration behind the song—the deep love for his son Milo. From quirky lyrics detailing creative methods to encourage teeth-brushing to poignant ref…

1
Ep. 197: Colin Clive discusses Mustard Plug's "Beer (Song)" 1:03:41

9M ago1:03:41

1:03:41

In this episode, Mustard Plug guitarist Colin Clive discusses the creative process behind the band's iconic ska-punk anthem "Beer (Song)." Having been released years prior to its inclusion on the Evildoers Beware! album, the track underwent a transformation that made it hit even harder and become more memorable. Colin dives into the evolution of th…

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Ep. 196: Tony Lovato discusses Mest's "Rooftops" 1:03:49

9M ago1:03:49

1:03:49

Mest frontman Tony Lovato sits in this week to share the story behind the band’s 2003 single “Rooftops”. From reminiscing about listening to music with friends to contemplating the future, Tony opens up about the song’s heartfelt origins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "Leap Year, Leap Day, Leaplings, and Toast" episode 28:41

9M ago28:41

28:41

The After Party is a weekly bonus episode for members of the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Supporting Cast (which is basically just like Patreon). Head to ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up! You'll get a giant back catalog of episodes, and a new episode each week. Sign up for the Supporting Cast: http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Vis…

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Ep. 195: Jonathan Higgs discusses Everything Everything's "Cold Reactor" 1:02:39

9M ago1:02:39

1:02:39

In this episode, Jonathan Higgs of Everything Everything shares the story behind the writing and recording of "Cold Reactor," the lead single from the band’s 2024 album Mountainhead. The narrative behind the song is intricately woven into the album’s overarching concept, offering a look into Jonathan’s vision of a strange dystopian world. All aspec…

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