The Ugly American Werewolf in London ...

The Ugly American Werewolf in London is a weekly podcast about classic rock, hard rock, progressive rock, heavy metal, early MTV, 80s music, UK vs. US chart success and all things rock! Hosted by The Wolf and Action Jackson, who interview rock legends, review classic albums and concerts of their favorite classic rock bands each week. Once a month, they welcome musicians, writers and fans to First Concert Memories to tell about one particular night where a live concert changed their life. Action & The Wolf have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge of rock music and its history - tune in to hear what they're passionate about! Proud part of Pantheon Podcasts! 

Music Commentary
Music History
Music Interviews
151
UAWIL #74: Sting Live in London & The Cult Live...
Over the last 2 years live music has been absent from our lives and it's been hard. With COVID restrictions lifting, bands are getting back out on the road and we're as psyched as anyone for that. The Wolf held his Sting tickets for over 2 years before finally being able to see him at the London Palladium where he delivered a classic performance. Action Jackson caught his favorite hard rock band of all time, The Cult, in Florida with some dedicated Cult fans. We have 5 new pre-show questions & 5 new post-show questions for all our concerts and we ask them of each other as we relish being able to see our heroes live again!@ugly_werewolf@actionjax72A proud member of the Pantheon Podcast Network
65 min
152
UAWIL #73: Simple Minds Concert Review & Histor...
Most Americans only know Simple Minds by one song from one movie - Don't Your Forget About Me from The Breakfast Club. But in the UK, Europe and most of the English speaking world, Simple Minds are icons of a generation and writers of dozens of hits. The Wolf was fortunate enough to see Simple Minds the 1st night of their 40th Anniversary tour at Wembley Arena in London and was blown away by the catalog, the stage show and their performance. After waiting more than 2 years to see them live, The Wolf shared his experience with Action Jackson as they explore Simple Minds history and catalog from the US perspective, wishing they'd had more exposure to them over the years.Proud member of the Pantheon Podcast Network@ugly_werewolf@actionjax72
54 min
153
UAWIL #72: Deborah Bonham & Peter Bullick Inter...
Deborah Bonham & Peter Bullick have been making music together for decades. Whether live with Paul Rodgers, in the studio or out on the road these two have lived, loved & lost enough to finally be ready to release an amazing blues album. Culled from classic blues tracks and more modern song given a blues treatment, Bonham Bullick is out April 29. I get Deborah & Peter to talk about their musical origins, early experiences in music and the rundown on the latest album. Deborah doesn't need to trade on her late brother's legacy - she an extraordinary artist in her own right. But she does make room for fans of John & Led Zeppelin and we discuss that part of her life. A fun interview, both of them generous of spirit, we explore the blues, this album and playing live.A proud member of the Pantheon Podcast familyhttps://www.deborahbonham.com/index.htmlhttps://bonham-bullick.lnk.to/Bonham-Bullick@ugly_werewolf@actionjax72
71 min
154
UAWIL #71: Genesis Live Review & London Rock To...
After 3 years of The Wolf living in London, Action Jackson finally got to make it over for a visit. We took the opportunity to take a guided tour of some of London's more historic rock spots and we had a blast. Lee from rocktours.co.uk was our super knowledgeable host who showed us, Savile Row where The Beatles last played, homes of Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin Swan Song offices, the last addresses of Jimi Hendrixx and Steve Clark and so many more. Plus, The Wolf saw Genesis at the O2 in London on what was their 2nd to last show ever. Despite the ailing health of Phil Collins, the band were tight and put on a brilliant show.Our first reunion episode in London!!A proud member of the Pantheon Podcast network@ugly_werewolf
55 min
155
Trailer: The Ugly American Werewolf in London R...
Recorded just off Abbey Road in London, listen to The Wolf with his old friend Action Jackson as they discuss all things related to classic rock n roll. These two friends have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge of rock music and its history. Classic Rock, Hard Rock, Progressive Rock, Heavy Metal, soundtracks - everything we grew up on and more are discussed in our weekly podcast - The Ugly American Werewolf in London. Tune in for classic album reviews, interviews, concert breakdowns and let us know what you want to hear us talk about. A proud member of the Pantheon Podcast network!
1 min
156
UAWIL #70: Amanda Lehmann & Anne Estella Inter...
To wrap up Women's History Month we interview two different women who are making their mark in rock music. First up we welcome back Amanda Lehmann - a talented musician, singer & songwriter who's toured with Steve Hackett and returns to the show to talk her latest single, One Last Spin. Action Jackson & The Wolf also get to ask her about playing with Asia front man John Wetton and her time in a Heart tribute band. We also chat with Anne Estella, a rock journalist, interviewer and producer who gives us the low down on the UK music festival scene, up and coming rock bands we should know and more. These women rock!!Part of Pantheon Podcasts
67 min
157
UAWIL #69: Pink Floyd - A Momentary Lapse of Re...
When Roger Waters left Pink Floyd, he assumed that would be the end of the band. However, David Gilmour had other ideas. Teaming up with Nick Mason, The Wall producer Bob Ezrin, once exiled member Rick Wright and a cast of talented musicians, Gilmour revived Pink Floyd with A Momentary Lapse of reason. Derided by critics and Waters, who thwarted them with lawsuits, this 1987 release is true to Pink Floyd's sound and introduced a new generation of rock fans to the band. With Learning to Fly, On the Turning Away, One Slip and Sorrow, the band recaptures so magic and updated the legendary Floyd live show. The Wolf & Action Jackson share their memories of seeing the videos on MTV, falling in love with the subsequent Delicate Sound of Thunder live release and explore the oft maligned gem.
69 min
158
UAWIL #68: Deep Purple - Machine Head at 50
In 1972, Deep Purple wanted to come off the road and settle into an atmosphere that would allow them to stretch out creatively and better capture their live sound. They headed to Lake Geneva, Switzerland to take residence in a casino right after Frank Zappa played one more gig there. The rest is rock n roll lore captured in the all time classic Smoke on the Water. Containing other radio staples like Highway Star and Space Truckin along with killer album cuts like Never Before and Lazy, this is the album that made it possible for Purple to continue to this day. We discuss the lineup, the relationships within and The wolf's hopes to catch them in London this fall live. Machine Head is 50 and we don't know a world without it!
63 min
159
UAWIL #67: Searching for Jimmy Page author Chri...
The Wolf & Action Jackson grew up worshipping Jimmy Page. So did Christy Alexander Hallberg and that love of Jimmy and his music, especially during his days in Led Zeppelin, inspired her novel Searching for Jimmy Page. Set in North Caroliina in 1988, we follow the story of teenage Luna who is coming to grips with her identity. Of course 1988 marked the release of Jimmy's only real solo record, Outrider, which made a big impression on Christy. We explore the story of Luna, her travels to England to find Jimmy and our experiences with Outrider, Led Zeppelin & all things Jimmy Page. Christy is super knowledgeable about the history of Led Zeppelin, made pilgrimages to LZ sites and is a talented author who put together a fun read.Part of Pantheon Podcasts
76 min
160
UAWIL #66: Iron Maiden - Fear of the Dark
Iron Maiden are the greatest heavy metal band on the planet. But in 1992 the wheels were coming off a bit. 1990's No Prayer for the Dying missed the mark as they switched out guitarist Adrian Smith for Jannick Gers. Bruce Dickinson was ready to leave the band for a solo career and it seemed they may have run out of steam. Credit them for trying new things, like a power ballad, but this shows a band in transition. The title track, Fear of the Dark, is a staple of their live show now but the band was on shaky ground at this time.
70 min
161
UAWIL #65: Number of the Beast at 40 - Iron Maiden
In 1982, Iron Maiden introduced the world to their new singer Bruce Dickinson and that propelled them to superstardom. His powerful and operatic vocals, spot on songwriting and command of the stage changed Maiden from a power punk band to the heavy metal heavyweights they are today. Action Jackson talks about seeing Bruce perform his one man show live in Jacksonville before we dive into this classic record. Has it been 40 years since we first heard Number of the Beast, Run to the Hills & Hallowed Be Thy Name? Is it their best ever? We'll dive into it on our first of two Maiden reviews back to back.
71 min
162
UAWIL #64: Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers - Long...
In the late 80s & early 90s, Tom Petty was huge thanks to a stint with The Traveling Wilburys, solo success with Full Moon Fever, reuniting with the Heartbreakers & a huge greatest hits album.  But in 1982 he had been busy fighting record companies  & the music business while trying to keep his band together.  Though Long After Dark spawned one radio/MTV hit in You Got Lucky, the album is very overlooked and that's a shame. The first side is full of rockers that get under your skin and allows the band to take some chances.  We think you'll like our discussion on this forgotten classic - listen to the album and you'll hear why.
65 min
163
UAWIL #63: Guns n Roses - Appetite for Destruct...
Guns N Roses became the biggest, most dangerous band in the world thanks to raw guitar power & raunchy lyrics. Their debut, Appetite for Destruction, set them on the path to superstardom but it didn't catch fire out of the gate.  It was a bit of a slow burn & needed a kickstart from MTV. But once the world heard Welcome to the Jungle, Sweet Child O Mine & Paradise City they skyrocketed up the charts only to have one of the most spectacular burnouts in rock history. Chris from My Rock n Roll Heaven joins us to discuss this classic.
93 min
164
UAWIL #62: Neil Young - Harvest & Harvest Moon
Neil Young is a man of conviction who isn't afraid to take on governments & corporations. But he has that platform because of all the amazing music he's made over the decades. We look back on Harvest, his 1972 classic which catapulted him to stardom as a solo artist, and Harvest Moon, his reflection on Harvest 20 years later.  Playing with the same cast of characters, Harvest Moon is a great bookend to Harvest which is often overlooked after the monster success of Harvest in 1972.
78 min
165
UAWIL #61: Amanda Lehmann Interview - Innocence...
As a show on classic rock we don't often encounter or review new music. We've been turned onto Steve Hackett in recent years & through discovering his music, we've been introduced to Amanda Lehmann as she has toured & recorded with Steve for years. Her album Innocence & Illusion showcases her talent as a songwriter, singer & guitar player across genres and was one of our top albums of 2021.  A delightful guest, we explore Amanda's origins & career as a musician while talking through her record track by track.
62 min
166
UAWIL #60: The Beatles Get Back with Neil from ...
By 1969 The Beatles hadn't toured in 2+ years & had recorded separately using multi-tracks to create their legendary sound. Always ambitious, they decided to write, record & perform live a new album in 2.5 weeks in early 1969 & create a documentary on the process. Peter Jackson pieced together an amazing documentary from the footage showing breakups, hangers on and some extraordinary songwriting & playing.  Neil from DefLepPod, a native Liverpudlian, joins us to review this amazing piece of film.
95 min
167
UAWIL #59: Exile on Main Street - The Rolling S...
1972 was a tough time for the Rolling Stones. They'd broken with their management, were forced to leave the UK as tax exiles & Keith was in the middle of his decade long heroin battle. But relocating to Nice allowed them to create the album by which all other Stones albums are measured. Rock, blues, country, gospel & soul elements are weaved throughout this masterpiece thanks to slick slide guitar from Mick Taylor, great piano from half a dozen guests and Mick & Keith's songwriting power.
75 min
168
UAWIL #58: Van Halen - The Debut Album
Van Halen released their debut album in 1978 & rock guitar playing hasn't been the same since. With the virtuoso tapping of Eddie Van Halen, super charisma of David Lee Roth and the thumping backbone of Michael Anthony & Alex Van Halen, this album changed rock n roll forever. In a world where punk was king, Van Halen mixed California sunshine with raw power to create a sound that still resonates to this day. Despite their issues later, this is one of the best rock debuts of all time.
71 min
169
UAWIL #57: Best of 2021 - Albums, Episodes, Con...
2021 was an odd and difficult year for so many around the world. Live music returned a bit in the UK but not to the extent we all wished. The Wolf & Action Jackson take the opportunity to reflect on their favorite releases, their best (and worst) episodes, to say thanks to all the guests, friends & fans of the podcast and to talk about what they look forward to in 2022. 
85 min
170
UAWIL #56: The Smiths - The Queen is Dead
The Smiths may not have made it big the US but they were a huge influence on the next generation of rock bands to come out of the UK.  Led by Morrissey's painful laments, Johnny Marr's innovative guitar work and a solid rhythm section of Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce, The Queen is Dead may just be the best record they ever made. Not a band destined to last, or apparently to ever reunite, The Smiths occupy a special place in rock history that can't be ignored.
62 min
171
UAWIL #55: Asia - Official Bootlegs Vol 1 Review
Fans of our show know that love to work Asia into our conversations consistently. The band have released a box set of 5 shows from different tours to show how the band & setlist evolved over the course of 30 years. Thanks to some new artwork from Roger Dean, words from long time collaborator Dave Gallant & some beautiful packaging, this is a must have for Asia fans.  We'll discuss the evolution of the bands sound & setlist while focusing on what we like and lamenting about what we don't.  Of course we'll work in all sorts of Asia facts as our favorite guilty pleasure band gets the treatment they deserve with this lovely box set.
81 min
172
UAWIL #54: REM - Document
REM were the darlings of the alternative/college rock scene in the 1980s. The quartet from Athens, GA blended folk, rock & country to create a unique sound while touring relentlessly to build their fan base. By 1987, it was time for them to step up & with the help of Scott Lit, who would go on to produce all their big albums of the rest of the 80s & 90s, evolved their sound to attract a much larger audience. Some diehards may have resisted but this record put REM on a much bigger stage.
62 min
173
UAWIL #53: U2 - Achtung Baby
30 years ago, U2 wanted to deliver a new, more industrial and techno sound against the backdrop of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Through personal hardships, artistic differences & real world struggles that almost broke up the band, U2 came out on the other side with a new sound that put them back on top for good. It came out just as our intrepid hosts were becoming friends as freshmen in college and this record stirs up lots of memories & emotions for them.
70 min
174
UAWIL #52: Abbey Road Studios Tour & Lecture
The Wolf lives by Abbey Road & recently he had the extraordinary opportunity to visit the legendary studio down the street.  Celebrating 90 years of setting the standard for recorded music & pushing the envelope of technology, Abbey Road hosted lectures by 2 American authors who led us through the years. Innovation, collaboration & talent still ooze out of the place, the walls definitely talk. Listen to The Wolf grin big as he sits at the control desk, visits the echo room & learns about The Beatles, Pink Floyd & so much more.
54 min
175
UAWIL #50 Pt 2: Ryan Condal of House of the Dra...
In show 50 Pt 2, we not only conclude our review of the movie Highlander & the soundtrack by rock legends Queen but we interview House of the Dragon producer/creator/writer Ryan Condal.  Ryan wrote a screenplay to reboot Highlander and we ask him how he came to the film, how things are going on the Game of Thrones series he's running, House of the Dragon, and his prop collection which he discusses on The Stuff Dreams Are Made Of Podcast
86 min