The Hook Rocks!

The Hooks Rocks Podcast is the place to be for talking rock music. In depth discussions on the state of rock music, new music spotlights featuring new up and coming artists, and much more. Get hooked on The Hooks Rocks…The Ultimate Rock Community podcast! Now Part of Pantheon Podcasts!

Music Commentary
Music Interviews
451
Does Rock Music Need Mainstream Acceptance To B...
Rock music rarely see acceptance by the mainstream music industry and when it does it's usually short-lived. When it does happen, the mainstream retroactively celebrates a rock artist or band decades after their prime success. The refusal to acknowledge the musicianship and talent during these prime years leave rock music fans screaming for vindication but, do we really need it? Rock music has faced years of being suppressed, ignored, and mistreated yet it still thrives. Although the definition of success has changed there are more new bands than ever before and more platforms for you to access the music. Bakko from Cobra's & Fire and I offer our perspective on why mainstream success for rock music is likely to not happen and why as rock fans we shouldn't care. Please enjoy the episode! Part of Pantheon Podcasts!
66 min
452
The Michael Schenker Interview
With his new MSG album "Immortal" out and being well received the man himself, Michael Schenker stops by The Hook Rocks Podcast. We talk about the chaotic experience of recording his new album, how he connects with himself when creating music, and how he stays in the present on his musical journey. Michael's spirituality shines through in our conversation and I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did! Part of Pantheon Podcasts!
48 min
453
New Music Spotlight: Interview With Daniel Firt...
With elements of blues, bluegrass, and folk the band Royal Horses bring the sounds of Deep South rock 'n' roll to the forefront. The bands debut album "A Modern Man's Way to Improve" drives home their rockabilly sense with strong melodies to capture the ear of their audience. I speak with drummer Daniel Firth on their influences, history, and how they are planning for the future. Please enjoy the episode!
45 min
454
The Inspiration That Is Pete's Diary
There is no better example of someone who has experienced the healing powers of music while inspiring others through his guitar playing then Pete Dankelson from Pete's Diary. Born with Goldenhar Syndrome he continues to overcome his challenges and embrace what makes him different. Through his guitar playing Pete has been able to connect with thousands on social media conveying a positive message and a joy that is like no other. I chat with Pete about his musical journey, his love for AC/DC, and his desire to work with others who face the same difficulties. Please enjoy the episode! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network!
63 min
455
Coming To A Livestream Near You!
The impact from Covid19 will be felt by the music business long after it becomes a memory. Record labels, streaming services, event promoters, on demand platforms, sponsors and artists have discovered new revenue streams as result and will capitalize on the new found money makers. Livestreams will never replace the emotional connection of being at a live concert but they will offer the fan in local markets and beyond the ability to watch a performance from the comfort of their own home. With improvements in technology and sound quality plus the caution people will have about being in large crowds makes this opportunity a safe bet for corporate conglomerates but also the consumer. The sports fan loves watching a game in person but also watches his favorite sports team at home or orders pay per view for a boxing match or MMA fight. Services like Netflix had already caused movie box office numbers to decline prior to the pandemic. Listen to my conversation with frequent Hook Rocks contributor Kristi Enigl about all of the above. Please enjoy the episode! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network
68 min
456
The Damon Johnson Interview
With a new band The Get Ready and a new album Battle Lessons Damon Johnson has finally found peace in his musical journey. No longer having to compromise his vision Damon speaks candidly with Jay Scott about his happiness with the music on his new record. He has found his music soul brothers in drummer Jarred Pope and bassist Robbie Harrington. Damon opens up about the recording process and life as a musician while living during a pandemic. Please enjoy the episode. Part of Pantheon Podcasts!
66 min
457
New Music Spotlight: Interview With Nathan Jame...
The new album "We Will Ride" is out this Friday February 12th and it is Inglorious at their best. The album integrates their classic rock roots with a modern sound. I begin the episode with my thoughts on the new music and commentary about the challenges recording music during the pandemic. We then welcome lead Singer Nathan James on The New Music Spotlight to share his thoughts on the album, the recording process, and why it was important to release new music during these times. Please enjoy the episode! Now Part of Pantheon Podcasts!
44 min
458
New Album Spotlight: The Pretty Reckless "Death...
The new year is in full swing and great new rock music is afoot. With several great rock albums already released in 2021, the latest by The Pretty Reckless is next level awesomeness. An emotional journey that began after the death of Chris Cornell and friend and long time producer Kato, the band fell into a dark place and the future of the band was in jeopardy. The album "Death By Rock 'n' Roll" chronicles the process of mourning, facing inner demons, and the perseverance of facing these individual challenges while rising through them. The result is perfection. The songs connect with a spiritual vibe unlike no other. Featuring guest appearances by Matt Cameron, Kim Thayil, & Tom Morello this album will connect with the listeners emotions. Please enjoy the episode! Part of Pantheon Podcasts!
21 min
459
The Dokken Legacy
Rising up through the scene on the sunset strip in the early '80s the band Dokken created some of the best music for over a decade. With three and four part harmonies, great songwriting, and addicting hooks they were one the best yet criminally underrated rock groups of that era. Sydney Taylor from Metal From The Inside and I discuss their music, legacy and why they were never able to reach the summit of popularity like their contemporaries. Please enjoy this episode! Part of Pantheon Music Podcasts!
89 min
460
The Deen Castronovo Interview
In his first interview since his departure from The Dead Daisies Deen Castronovo details the challenges involved with his physical health. The impact of Covid19 played a major role in repairing the issues causing the limitations, which ultimately led to him making a hard decision. As always, Deen looks towards the future with positivity once he recovers and is able to perform at the level he expects. With a new side project on the horizon he is looking to move forward. Please enjoy the episode! Part of Pantheon Podcasts
55 min
461
New Music Spotlight: Interview With Johnny Skul...
Merging horror and modern goth imagery with heavy hooks the band Above Snakes is ready to mark their territory in the hard rock/heavy metal world. While playing in and touring with previous groups Johnny Skulls and Dax Dabs wanted to create a band with everyone's creative energy focused on the greater cause instead of a singular ego. The result is a modern metal sound with images reminiscent of bands such as Iron Maiden and others in the NWOBHM movement. Check out this great conversation! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network!
48 min
462
Van Halen I vs Appetite For Destruction
When rock fans speak about great debut albums and the impact their music had on rock 'n' roll no two albums create a more passionate debate than these monster records. Van Halen's self titled debut which is full of big harmonies, shredding guitar, and infectious energy versus the sleaze and back alley grit of Guns 'N' Roses' Appetite For Destruction. Which album had more influence? Which one changed the game? I welcome Chris Preston from My Rock 'n' Roll Heaven to discuss! Please enjoy! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network!
68 min
463
New Music Spotlight: Interview With Tucker McMu...
From the small town of Red Dear, Alberta in Canada the band King Bull fuses elements of rock and punk into a beautiful chaotic sound. I sit down with lead vocalist/guitar player Tucker McMurray and discuss the bands history, their latest EP, and where the future lies for King Bull. It was a fun conversation I enjoyed and I know you will too! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network!
53 min
464
The Return of Joel Hoekstra
Joel Hoekstra returns to the Hook Rocks Podcast to discuss his latest album "Running Games" by Joel Hoekstra's 13. The album features Joel's definitive sound as musicians Vinny Appice, Tony Franklin, Derek Sherinian, Russell Allen, and others contribute on each track. We then move to the timely topic of Covid19 and how its impact continues to put live music in a state of unknown. Please enjoy the episode! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network!
40 min
465
How & Why We Connect With Music
Music can be a time machine connecting us with the memories of the past while we stay in the present. It has a way of binding us together no matter the journey we choose. We connect through lyrics, melodies, and the moments we experience while our favorite song plays in the background. A great song never leaves us. Why is it so personal? Why does music help define our lives? Jaide Alicia returns to The Hook Rocks to discuss this and more...please enjoy! Part of The Pantheon Music Podcast Network!
71 min
466
New Music Spotlight: Interview With Lacey Crowe...
The new year has begun but the same worries and unknowns remains for music fans across the globe. Live music and going to concerts remains a "who knows" as far as when and if tours will be able to go on. However, new music from our favorite artists and new bands will continue to be released in 2021. With high hopes and expectations the band Bourbon House is currently working on a new album with a target for release this spring. Lead Vocalist Lacey Crowe joins the Hook Rocks to talk about the new album, her influences, and where the band is headed. Please enjoy the episode! Part of Pantheon Music Podcasts!
50 min
467
The Todd "Damnit" Kerns Interview
Rock 'n' roll veteran Todd "Damnit" Kerns talks with the Hook Rocks Podcast in a wide-ranging conversation about his influences, the upcoming Minefield album, the evolution of song writing, and much more. We dive into the changes in songwriting styles from the sixties to the '70s and how those changes changed the face of rock music. Todd also discusses the upcoming Minefield project and the album due out this February. Enjoy this great conversation! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network!
70 min
468
New Music Spotlight: Interview With Melody Cris...
The New Music Spotlight kicks off 2021 with a bang as we feature lead vocalist Melody Cristea from Liliac, the band made up 5 siblings from the Cristea family. The band is capturing the attention of rock fans young and old across the globe. I chat with Melody on her musical influences, the dynamic of the band, and the impact the legend Ronnie James Dio has had on her musical journey. We anticipate more great new music from Liliac in 2021. Please enjoy the episode! Part of Pantheon Music Podcasts!
45 min
469
The Carrie Stevens Interview
The journey in ones life is often complicated. At any given moment the road you are on can change without notice. Author, actress, model, and entrepreneur Carrie Stevens writes in her book Unrated: Revelations of A Rock 'n' Roll Centerfold about her life in unparalleled honesty. The grief, the heartbreak, the high and the lows are all on the table during her conversation on this episode of The Hook Rocks. Please enjoy! Part of Pantheon Podcasts
115 min
470
The Top Albums of 2020 Part 2: 1-10
The final installment of the top album's & EP's of 2020 is finally here! Once again Chris Corradetti and Jay Scott discuss their favorites with picks 1-10. From rock 'n' roll veterans to new artists...bands from all over the globe are talked about in the most complete year end celebration of rock music you will find. Please share your thoughts and your picks on our social media posts! Please enjoy the episode! Part of The Pantheon Podcast Network
108 min
471
The Top Albums of 2020 Part 1: 11-20
2020 is over and it's time to look back and talk about the top albums of the year. Once again Chris Corradetti and I discuss our favorites and why we selected them in part 1 of our back and forth.. Bands from all over the globe and a few surprises along the way! Enjoy our conversation and check out these great albums! Now Part of Pantheon Podcasts
79 min
472
The Hook Rocks Top EP's of 2020!
2020 is officially closed and in the books. The year was filled with unprecedented challenges, a new normal, and many questions as we head into the future. However, I believe 2020 will mark the beginning of the resurgence of real rock 'n ' roll. With many great bands releasing incredible music and the angst of the youth building the next wave of rock is ready to take over the world. Chris Corradetti and I break down the top EP's released in 2020 and discuss why many of these artists will be the focus of rock fans for years to come...and there may be a rant about the infamous Led Zeppelin tribute album. Please enjoy the episode! Now Part of Pantheon Podcasts!
73 min
473
What Are The Top 5 Rock Albums So Far This Year...
2020 is in the books and once again several great rock albums have been released in the 4th quarter. I welcome back Chris Corradetti and we break down our favorites of the year so far for the months of October through December. Debut releases and music from our favorites are once again spotlighted. Which ones have you listened to? Which ones will make our lists! Please enjoy the episode.
69 min
474
No Live Concerts In 2020...Let's Discuss Our Fa...
The pandemic of 2020 has paused live music and its return is still in question. For live music lovers this has been traumatic. Gone is the adrenaline rush one gets when a band hits the stage curing the ache of anticipation. Gone is the synergy of the crowd singing a long to a song with fists in the air. We wait for its return. Many of us have turned to live albums in our collection to feed the absence of those moments that captured our imagination and transcended time. Rob In The Hood returns to the podcast to discuss our favorite live recordings and relive the memories of the live show. Please enjoy the episode!
71 min
475
New Music Spotlight: Interview With Chris Foust...
Coming from Music City the band Foust merges the elements of grunge with a modern rock sound. Their debut EP Revival is filled with great songs such as "The Fountain" & "The Ocean". I had a chance to chat with lead singer and guitarist Chris Foust about the current state of rock music, the importance on having thick skin while being in the music business, and much more. I hope you will enjoy this conversation as much as I did! 
64 min