The Itch Rock Podcast

E318 Arya Goggin of Skindred on Album Titles, Lineup Changes, and Owning Your Style on You Got This

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a three-peat! Arya Goggin of Skindred (The Itch's Official Favorite Band™) joins the three-timer club to discuss their ninth album, You Got This. As with all of their albums, this one is full of genre-hopping earworms ranging from pop rockers to old school ragga-metal jams. In this conversation, we explore how the album got its title (and get some insight into how Skindred almost "jumped the shark" on a previous album), how a Hennessy bottle made it into the recording, and how frontman Benji Webbe's impeccable style comes with some job hazards.

Plus, we explore Skindred's new normal as they embark on their first ever album cycle without founding member Dan Pugsley. And The Itch is down a man ourselves, as (also for the first time ever) KC is out of commission due to technical troubles. But in keeping with the theme of the episode, Dan and Aaron just had to tell themselves... you got this. Enjoy. And hey, grab yourself a free download of the singles from You Got This and Smile, courtesy of the band!

Listen to The Itch Rock Radio Show Rock with us every Sunday night from 6-9pm CST on KCLC-FM in St. Louis. Outside the area? Stream online at 891thewood.com, TuneIn, Radio.net, and OnlineRadioBox!

Connect With The Itch For any and all friendship, questions, inquiries, and offers of pizza, The Itch can be found at the following: Website: itchrocks.com Facebook: Facebook.com/itchrocks Instagram: Instagram.com/itchrocks Email: itchrocks@gmail.com

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E317 Q1 Rock Roundup, Q2 Preview, and March Bandness Winner Announcement!

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to look back and look forward! First, March Bandness is in the books, and we've got a winner to announce! It was a lady-led Final Four, but who among the field of The Pretty Wild, Emi Grace, LYLVC, and Holy Wars took home the title?

Then, we're recapping the first three months of 2026. For The Itch, Q1 featured wish list interviews, some memorable concerts, and a ton of Shiprocked. And while it was a cold winter for album releases, we still found a few hot records to rock out to.

Finally, we look at the absolutely stacked lineup of albums scheduled to drop in April, May, and June ... plus an extra exciting one just announced for July! The Q2 hype has begun! Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E316 Kenny Wayne Shepherd on 23 Years of Sobriety, 30 Years of Ledbetter Heights, and 92 Years of Bobby Rush

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to sing the blues ... again! Grammy nominee Kenny Wayne Shepherd returns in celebration of the 30th anniversary of his debut album Ledbetter Heights. In addition to a re-recording to be released in May, Kenny and his band are playing the album in full on this tour alongside some old faces and some who will be playing the songs for the first time! Plus, we discuss Kenny's recent tribute to B.B. King and collaboration with Bobby Rush, showing that you can still be a young man in the blues world at 48. And Kenny celebrates 23 years of proving that you don't have to party to make life a party. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

March Bandness 2026 Voting Is Open!

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0000

March Bandness is live! The 6th Annual Itch Invitational Tournament features 8 elite artists who joined us on Shiprocked this year for the first time. The field includes The Barbarians of California, Emi Grace, GANG!, Holy Wars, LYLVC, The Pretty Wild, Shepherds Reign, and UnityTX!

Vote here https://freeonlinesurveys.com/s/glA0Jxab on our Championship matchup (or at the link in our Instagram bio or on our Facebook page) for your first round favorites and send 'em all the way to the championship! The winning band gets an episode dedicated to them, but you get the bragging rights for supporting the artists you love. The polls won't be open for long, so get your votes in and enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E315 Concert Catch-up: Our Lady Peace, The Verve Pipe, Butcher Babies, Eva Under Fire, LYLVC, and more!

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for some tours that were full of surprises! First, Aaron visits a new (to him) venue to see the Jeris Johnson tour minus Jeris Johnson, as Butcher Babies step up to headline a show at The WC Social Club with our friends Eva Under Fire and our possible family LYLVC. Then KC and Dan check out a new (to everyone) venue in The Sovereign in St. Louis to catch Itch guest Raine Maida and Our Lady Peace on their 30th anniversary tour with support from The Verve Pipe while Aaron compares notes after seeing them at The Vic in Chicago a few nights earlier. It's ladies night and 90s night for The Itch! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E314 Steve Ewing of The Urge on St. Louis, Steve's Hot Dogs, and Balancing Bands, Business, and Bodybuilding

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to celebrate St Louis! It's episode 314, and who better to spotlight our city than Steve Ewing! Rock fans best know Steve as the dynamic frontman of Lou legends The Urge. But for over 15 years, St. Louisians have also been receiving the gift of flavor at Steve's Hot Dogs!

And if fronting a band and running a business weren't enough, Steve doubles down on both, performing regularly with the Steve Ewing Band and venturing into gourmet grilled cheese with Steve's Meltdown! PLUS, he manages to be a family man, give back to the community, and be a professional bodybuilder at 55. We were honored to be joined in this special episode by a man who's given us great music for over 30 years (as well as a 'Weird Al' themed Polish sausage). Enjoy. And if you're in town and you swing by Steve's, tell him we sent you.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E313 Concert Catch-up: Nine Inch Nails, Badflower, Point North, and more!

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a trio of very different experiences! Dan and KC check off a bucket list band by seeing Nine Inch Nails (we're as surprised as you are that it took this long), and see the wildest performance yet of Badflower, a band we've covered live more than possibly any other. Plus, Aaron has some quality time with his dad seeing Tom Glynn pay tribute to some legendary singer-songwriters of the '70s.

So what was it like to see Trent Reznor and Co. perform for the first time? Were the boys prepared for the pre-show rave? (No.) Was Josh Freese ready to step back into the saddle with NIN? (Of course.) And after "crashing out" on stage due to struggles with his physical and mental health, what does the future hold for our dear Josh Katz and Badflower? (It remains to be seen, but it's encouraging!) All of this and more in our first non-Shiprocked, non-2025 holiday Concert Catch-up of the year! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E312 Itchiversary: Shiprocked 2026 Recap Part 3

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to finally move on... for now. Though we'll have more Shiprocked-related business coming in the near future, we're finally wrapping up coverage of our week at sea. Part 3 of our recap features Avatar, Motionless in White, ’68, Lowlives, Rubix Groove, Aurorawave, The Pretty Wild, Halestorm, House of Protection, The Barbarians of California, Kemikalfire, Gang!, and more! We're exploring not just the music, but the events surrounding it, including a wild game show, a pair of guitar showcases, and an impromptu music video!

Plus, Aaron feels like family with P.O.D., and The Itch learns more than we want to about how often rock stars have ICE CREAM, and our final show of the cruise ends in a way we never would've imagined! Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E311 Itchiversary: Shiprocked 2026 Recap Part 2

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to keep the momentum going! We've got part 2 of our Shiprocked recap, and this one starts on the beach! We're talking about Shepherds Reign, Aurorawave, Suicidal Tendencies, Kittie, The Funeral Portrait, Emi Grace, DeathByRomy, The Stowaways, Zero 9:36, Fox Lake, Motionless in White, and more! Along the way, we discuss making wishes come true, the value of wearing shinguards on stage, and a curse that's apparently very real!

Plus, Aaron gets a chance to see Itch guest Matt Bigland at full health on Dinosaur Pile-Up's headlining show at the Cobra Lounge with Honeyknife! Enjoy, and stay tuned to see if we need part 3 or if we can finally move on!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E310 Itchiversary: Shiprocked 2026 Recap Part 1

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for the best week of the year! Shiprocked 2026 is in the books, and it was another one for the ages. While we couldn't cover it all in this episode, we got off to a good start, talking about Avatar, Holy Wars, Starset, Lowlives, UnityTX, The Pretty Wild, House of Protection, Dinosaur Pile-Up, Dead Poet Society, GANG!, AWOLNATION, '68, Knocked Loose, and more!

Join us for discussions on who was really the best sail away band, the benefits of shenanigans, performing while sick, the best dance moves on the boat, punk rock performance art, and how Shiprocked tested the waters (heh) in some new ways on this cruise. Enjoy, and stay tuned for the rest of our recap(s?) coming soon!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

Shiprocked Replay: Luke Johnson and Lee Downer of Lowlives

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're recovering from being on a boat! We've got another supersized replay for you, this time featuring our back-to-back conversations from 2024 with Luke and Lee of Lowlives. These boys, alongside their bandmates Jaxon Moore and Steve Lucarelli, played a big part in making Shiprocked 2026 a blast for us. They play like their lives depend on it, they make their fans feel like friends, and they consume burgers like mad men. Enjoy this double episode, then check out their debut album Freaking Out. We'll be back with more interviews and Shiprocked coverage in the coming weeks!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

Shiprocked Replay: Nathan Aurora of Aurorawave

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're on a boat! And that means that, per tradition, we're replaying an episode featuring a guest that we're currently rocking out with on Shiprocked. But this year our favorite Carnival concert cruise has a bigger boat, so we're giving you a bigger episode! Enjoy a double dose of conversation with Nathan Aurora of Aurorawave, and then check out their new album Monument! You're rockin' with the wave sh*t.... literally.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E309 Holiday Concert Catch-up: Nonpoint, Boy Hits Car, Aurorawave, and Joe Bonamassa

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to officially close out 2025! We've got reports on a pair of holiday shows, because of course 'twas the season to see concerts. First, KC and Dan saw Itch guest and arguably the world's greatest living blues rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa at Thanksgiving. Then, the entire crew (plus Dan's family!) continues our tradition of seeing our boys in Nonpoint in any state but our own, checking out their Nu Metal New Year tour with fellow Itch guests Boy Hits Car and Aurorawave in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They were some wildly different experiences, but both very much worthwhile! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E308 Riley Breckenridge of Thrice on Sharing What You Love, Avoiding Spotify, and Opting Out of Unhealthy Fandom

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to explore some new horizons! We're joined Riley Breckenridge of Thrice, who just released their excellent 12th studio album Horizons/West. It's almost unheard of for a band to be this consistently good this far into their career, but Riley and his bandmates made it happen with a little patience and a penchant for... being a bit boring? Join us for an explanation of that, plus some talk about the awesomeness of Radiohead, the awfulness of the Los Angeles Angels, a grindcore band formed on a whim, and a bold prediction about St. Louis sports! Enjoy.

And after the episode, check out Riley's blog for his top albums of 2025, and his clothing company for some sweet gear that most definitely should not be an issue for Major League Baseball.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E307 Micah Bournes on Abolition, Nomadic Living, Creative Risks, and Bringing Joy to the Revolution

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to start the year with joy. Micah Bournes returns to the show to discuss his new protest album Til We All Free, the first non-rock record to ever make The Itch's Top 20 list. Born out of a sense of urgency after America's sociopolitical climate changed again last year, the album is an exploration of abolition, the difference between legality and morality, and how to stay joyful while facing and fighting injustice. Micah's art inspires and influences The Itch, and we were grateful to start the year off with him. Enjoy.

Micah's album is available to Name Your Own Price at Bandcamp, which means you can have it for free! But we recommend supporting him with a purchase, or via his Patreon. Micah also recommends the book We Do This 'Til We Free Us by Mariame Kaba as an introduction to learning about abolition.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E306 The 2025 Itch Awards and Top 20 Albums

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to end the year in style! It's time for the sixth annual Itch Awards and our collectively agreed upon top 20 albums of 2025! Tune in to hear what records caught our ears the most, as well as a few of our favorite EPs, our Comeback and Breakout artists, our most listened-to interviews of the year, and what albums we're most looking forward to in 2026. Thank you so much for being with us this year. We know your time is valuable and we value that you spend some of it on us. Happy new year, and here's to another great one!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E305 The Return of Christmas Eva with Amanda Lyberg of Eva Under Fire!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to put a Christmas wrap on our 2025 interviews! Per tradition and unenforceable contract, Amanda Lyberg of Eva Under Fire makes her second appearance of the year (and within a month!) for the return of Christmas Eva! And believe it or not, things have happened since we spoke in November! Join us for a conversation that's very much in the holiday spirit, where we discuss the value of Octane to the active rock scene, a unique and interesting tour that was just announced, and... diaper blowouts? It's an explosive episode for sure. Happy holidays! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E304 Sleigh Bells on 15 Years of Treats, Touring with a Toddler, Sobriety, and How to Put on a Show

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for an early Christmas present... and a seasonally appropriate one at that! Aaron checks off a pair of wish list guests as Alexis Krauss and Derek Miller of Sleigh Bells join us to talk about their latest record Bunky Becky Birthday Boy, how motherhood, sobriety, and a full band have tour life looking different these days, and the work that goes into their energetic live shows (the topic that also brought us last week's guest, their frequent keyboardist and background vocalist Kate Steinberg). Plus, as they celebrate 15 years of their first record, we'll learn just how much Alexis and Derek love Treats... and pastries. Enjoy.

And for further listening, as promised:

Sleigh Bells on LSQ: https://jennylsq.com/2025/04/02/sleigh-bells/

Derek on Songwriters on Process: https://www.songwritersonpodcast.com/derek-miller-sleigh-bells/

Alexis on Female Guides Requested: https://femaleguidesrequested.com/podcast/ep-48-alexis-krauss-rise-outside/

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E303 Coach Kate Steinberg on Holistic Touring Health and Working With Sleigh Bells and Motion City Soundtrack

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for tour support! Kate Steinberg has built a career as a touring and recording vocalist and keyboardist, a voice teacher, producer, and arranger, a songwriter, and... if it seems like this list keeps going, that's because it does. Kate is a multi-talented musician who caught Aaron's attention with her boundless on-stage energy as. she rocked keys and BGVs on Sleigh Bells' recent tour. And that's not the only type of tour support she offers. Kate custom-designs programs for physical and mental well-being and accountability for touring professionals as they face the stress and chaos of life on the road, a practice that has earned her the affectionate nickname of "Coach Kate." Join us for a conversation about her own adventures on tour with Sleigh Bells and Motion City Soundtrack, as well as her insight into how Tour Support programs can meet a felt need for an element of band life that's often not given the care it deserves.

If you're a musician who's interested in Tour Support or any of Kate's other offerings, don't forget to follow her and reach out to see how she can help. And follow Emily Prime, Soundbody, and Kate's sister Lindsey Steinberg to see what's coming next. Oh, and follow us for a great photo of the Moogstand. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E302 Concert Catch-up: Warped Tour Orlando and Tom Morello!

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to see what all the hype is about when Dan heads to Orlando for the revived Warped Tour and Aaron sees Tom Morello for the first time! Dan's adventure included expensive-but-satisfying food, a broad definition of punk, a happy wife, and an absurd step count. Meanwhile, Aaron was treated to some surprise guests, the future of socially conscious hip hop, a strangely shaped venue, and some of the best riffs in rock. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E301 Clipisode: Leftovers VI

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for gratitude! Once again, we had a record number of interview episodes in 2025, and we're treating you to a true buffet of bonus clips from them with our annual Leftovers episode. Enjoy them while you recover from Thanksgiving, while you celebrate (or mourn) your football team's performance, or while you shop (or don't, which we love even more). Thank you so much to all of this year's guests, and to you for joining us for the ride. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E300 Amanda Lyberg of Eva Under Fire Enters a New Era

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to celebrate. And who better to invite to the party than our most frequent guest and honorary co-host, Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire... except this time, she's reclaiming her own name and introducing the industry to Amanda Lyberg. She's been through some things in the past few years, and boy does she have a lot to say about it. Join us for a celebration of not only 300 episodes of The Itch, but of the beauty of bringing your full self into every space, and to the amazing things that can happen when you persevere in the music world... even when it's purely out of spite. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E299 Revis on Creating Their First Album in 20 Years and Feeling More Inspired Than Ever

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to call it a comeback! Revis was one of the first new bands The Itch played on the radio in our college years. Now, 22 years after their first LP, Places for Breathing, they've finally released their second, Killing Time. Following a quick chat at their recent Delmar Hall show (more on that here), Justin Holman and Robert Davis join The Itch to talk about this new release, the challenges and benefits of modern music making, and the importance of having the support of their spouses, and being hungrier than ever creatively half a lifetime after their debut. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E298 Concert Catch-up: Eva Under Fire, Buckcherry, Grandson, Ho99o9, and more!

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for All Hallows Eva (our idea, not theirs) and Grannyween (their idea, not ours)! KC and Dan saw a pair of shows in St. Louis featuring Itch guests [Eva Under Fire](https://evaunderfire.os.fan/), [Buckcherry](https://www.buckcherry.com/), and [Grandson](https://grandsonmusic.com/), plus the stylings of [Drew Cagle & The Reputation](https://drewcagle.com/) and an appropriately timed appearance by [Ho99o9](https://ho99o9.com/)! This one features some lessons in front person and fan etiquette and a curious number of old ladies, and we most definitely do not answer the question, "how old is too old for trick or treating?" Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E297 Concert Catch-up: Halestorm, Lindsey Stirling, Apocalyptica, Everclear, Local H, Sponge, Revis, and Emerge

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to play catch-up! The Itch saw so many shows in September and October that we're still recapping them in November! This work is exhausting, but it's worth it when you get to see legends, modern stars, and triumphant returns. And that's just what we did. First, Aaron and KC visited the Family Arena to see Everclear on their Sparkle and Fade anniversary tour alongside fellow alt rockers Local H and Sponge. Then, Dan and his family caught Itch guests Halestorm and Apocalyptica with Lindsey Stirling on a rainy night at St. Louis Music Park. And finally, Aaron was at long last introduced to the "Panera Bread" of music venues when he and KC saw the return of Revis alongside Emerge at Delmar Hall. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E296 Lee Jennings of The Funeral Portrait on Being a Disney Adult and Building a Life Beyond the Band

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to join the Coffin Crew! Halloween is almost here, and what a more fitting guest than the man who puts the "fun" in "funeral," Lee Jennings of The Funeral Portrait! After toiling for years, the band has built momentum following some door-opening tour pairings and their excellent 2024 album Welcome to Suffocate City. Now, in the middle of their hectic 290 days on the road in 2025 (yes, you read that right), Lee joins us to talk about how he's adjusting to The Funeral Portrait's increasing success, the importance of not always being in band mode, and, of course, his favorite Disney film. Enjoy. And stay zesty.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E295 Matt Flood of Caskets on Artistic Evolution and Keeping Writing Fun While Being Emotionally Honest

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get buried... by the weight of good music. (That works, right?) Caskets frontman Matt Flood joins us ahead of the release The Only Heaven You'll Know, an album Matt has described as "the sound of me falling apart in real time." The new record finds him broadening his skills as a vocalist while the band explores heavier sounds and the lyrical themes somehow become more raw than ever. Plus, we discuss Matt's love for Fightstar and the importance of keeping the writing process fun... even when you're falling apart. Enjoy.

And if you like Caskets, check out our previous conversation with Benji and James as well!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E294 Concert Catch-up: Chevelle, Dead Poet Society, Calva Louise, Wargasm, Dropout Kings, and more!

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for some favorites! We're covering three more shows from our stacked September run. First, Aaron cements his change of heart about Wargasm and experiences the energy of Black Cat Bill and Dropout Kings. Then Dan introduces his sons to Chevelle, the redemption-seeking Asking Alexandria, and Itch guests Dead Poet Society. And finally, all three of the guys catch one of our collective favorites, two-time guests Calva Louise, on their first US headline tour with Sicksense... and we do it across two different cities.

So many questions are raised in this episode, and not all of them by Dan's kids. Who is Wargasm's MVP? What was that unicorn doing in the pit? Where has this Danny Worsnop been? When will Calva reach the level they clearly deserve? And why isn't the best band always the headliner? We don't have all the answers, but this episode has a few of them. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E293 Morgan James on Building an Audience That Will Follow You and Finding the Soul of 90s Alternative Rock

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to jazz it up! Morgan James, whose path has taken her from Broadway to collaborations with Postmodern Jukebox and, most recently, Brass Against, joins us for a change of stylistic pace to discuss her new album Soul Remains the Same. On it she tackles legendary tracks from Nine Inch Nails, Smashing Pumpkins, Pearl Jam, and more, using soul, jazz, and R&B sounds to draw out the emotions of the songs in a new way. Plus, KC gets to see Morgan in concert a few days after our conversation, taking The Itch on a rare trip to a venue that's snazzy instead of scuzzy. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E292 Concert Catch-up: Riot Fest 2025, featuring Green Day, Weezer, Blink-182, Weird Al, John Stamos, and more!

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to talk Forever! Riot Fest 2025 is in the books and it was a ripper. Aaron joined the full house of performers and attendees for three days of great shows, bucket list bands, reunions, and, finally... a properly buttered up John Stamos. Check out his recap of finally seeing Green Day, Blink-182, Jack White, and Rilo Kiley, as well as a fresh add to his ever-growing list of favorite UK punks. Plus, Weird Al rules any stage he's on (including the one KC saw in St Louis) and Dan does his husbandly duties of taking his wife to see From Ashes to New. Enjoy.

Oh, and here's the story of the kid who sung on stage during Green Day's set.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E291 Tori Kravitz of She's With the Band on Working in PR, Returning to Warped Tour, and Giving All the Flowers

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to go Beyond the Breakdown! Tori Kravitz, publicist, podcaster, and pit reporter extraordinaire, joins us to talk all about the off-stage side of the music industry! From working as one of Atom Splitter PR's all stars to spotlighting some of the coolest women in metal on She's With the Band to bringing back Warped Tori for this year's Warped Tour, she's a pro who lives, breathes, and champions music with the best of them. Enjoy.

And for more of Tori's story, check out her own Q&A on She's With the Band and her episode of Rulebreakers With Saraya.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E290 Concert Catch-up: Linkin Park, Nonpoint, Heartsick, System of a Down, Avenged Sevenfold, and more!

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to check off some bucket list bands! The reborn Linkin Park came through St. Louis with Jean Dawson, and the reclusive System of a Down came through Chicago with Avenged Sevenfold, Polyphia, and Wisp... and the full Itch squad went to see them! Plus, the legends in Nonpoint and Heartsic k came to Pops with Upon a Burning Body in celebration of their albums Statement and To The Pain, leading to the most unique set from the boys to date!

Plus: KC knows how to give a birthday gift, Soldier Field is an issue, and The Itch has a suggestion for Linkin Park's next tour. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E289 Raine Maida of Our Lady Peace on Marriage, Mental Health, and Using Technology to Build True Connection

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get Canadian! Raine Maida of Canada's rock royalty Our Lady Peace joins us as the band continues its 30-year celebration. We discuss the fan-inspired push that led them to reclaim the song "Whatever" as a mental health anthem, the tricky task of using technology to connect with your audience, and the decision Raine and his wife Chantal Kreviazuk made to be so open about the ups and downs of marriage as public figures. Plus, we debut a brand new Burning Question, and Raine has a fittingly entertaining answer. It's always a pleasure to speak with someone who we've listened to since before The Itch existed. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E288 Concert Catch-up: Rockin' for The Hook Benefit for Jay Scott featuring Goodbye June, Leilani Kilgore, and more!

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for community. Our friend Jay Scott, host of The Hook Rocks Podcast and one of the first music podcasters to welcome us into this world, is facing a long health struggle. In response, more friends of ours, who you may have heard us refer to as "The Groove Council" in past episodes, recently put together a benefit show for Jay's recovery. Aaron was able to attend, and what a beautiful night it was. Chris, Mike, and Rich of The Groove Council join us in this episode to recap Jay's story, what he's going through, and an amazing night of music just for him. The benefit show, hosted by the amazing team at Reggies, featured performances from Goodbye June, Leilani Kilgore, Parker Barrow, Tuk Smith, Christian Shields, Ignescent, Abby K, and Peter Dankelson.

This episode is all about helping Jay recover his health and get back to what he does best: promoting rising rock artists and building community among music lovers. For more on Jay and The Hook, check out this episode of All Things Blues and Southern Rock. If you want to contribute directly to Jay's recovery, you can do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-jay-scotts-stroke-recovery (And if you do, let us know and The Itch will send you some free stickers in appreciation.)

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E287 Joe Cotela of DED on Punk Influences, Unearned Egos, Working With Chad Gray, and Going Into the Pit Blind

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to play DED. As in, we've played DED's new album Resent (out September 19th) so much that we had to have frontman Joe Cotela on to talk about it. Joe talks about the perhaps unconscious decision to go heavier after a more melodic turn on 2021's School of Thought, how he prefers to use heavyweight guests like Chad Gray, Chris Motionless, and Danny Leal on more brutal tracks rather than for radio clout, and how humility is always more attractive than ego.

Plus, Aaron has a marketing idea, and Joe has a good reason why that idea could lead to trouble. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E286 Oxymorrons on Defining Independence and How They Create, Destroy, Rebuild, Repeat on Their New EP

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to bring back the boys! Oxymorrons return for the first time since 2023 to tell us all about their new EP, Create. Destroy. Rebuild. Repeat. Life is very different for Dee, Jafe, and K.I. since their last appearance on the show, but they never cease to apply their lessons learned to their art and to their lives, or to share them with anyone who's willing to listen. As always, our conversation with the guys exists in the sweet spot where depth and humor meet, where we can mourn a loss one moment and propose Oxymorrons Goes Bluegrass the next. This one's definitely worth your time. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist on Spotify!

E285 Nathan Aurora of Aurorawave on Shiprocked, Reggae's Reputation, and Turning a Vision Into Reality

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to make waves! Nathan Aurora of Aurorawave joins us for the second time this calendar year to discuss the band's new album Monument, how his vision for the year has become reality, and how The Itch played a role! It's a fun conversation that touches on genre-crossing guest spots, goal setting, and splitting time between two very different musical worlds. Plus, Nathan now has an audience of two tiny ones, and The Itch gets a hint about some possible future Aurorawave collabs. Enjoy.

If you like what you hear, you can hear more of us every Sunday night broadcasting rock to the masses from 6-9pm CST on KCLC-FM. If you're not in the St. Louis area, you can stream the show from 891thewood.com, TuneIn, Radio.net, and OnlineRadioBox!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

For any and all friendship, questions, inquiries, and offers of pizza, The Itch can be found at the following: Website: itchrocks.com Facebook: Facebook.com/itchrocks Instagram: Instagram.com/itchrocks Email: itchrocks@gmail.com

Thank you so much for listening. If you like what you hear, please subscribe and leave a positive review and rating on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podchaser to help our audience grow. If you don't like what you hear, please tell us anyway to help our skills grow.

E284 Nova Twins on Industry Acceptance, Mama Nova, Personal Growth, and Pedal Boards

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to celebrate! Just in time for Aaron's birthday, we've got a wish list interview with Nova Twins, whose third album, Parasites & Butterflies, drops Friday, August 29th! Amy Love and Georgia South joined us on the eve of their Warped Tour debut to talk about the new album, including the themes behind it and the wild video for "N.O.V.A.", which stars none other than Georgia's mother! Amy and Georgia are a brand to themselves, from designing their own clothing to campaigning for POC representation in the rock world to crafting some of the hardest working pedalboards in the game. We've been looking forward to this one, and we hope you enjoy it.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E283 Matt Bigland of Dinosaur Pile-Up on Finally Feeling Better and Why Love Is the Worst (and the Best)

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to feel better! After a crazy few years that took him from heartbroken to bedridden with ulcerative colitis to smitten with the love of his life, Matt Bigland and Dinosaur Pile-Up are back from the brink of extinction with the killer new album I've Felt Better. It's a welcome return after being essentially absent from the music world for five years, and the band hasn't missed a beat with their funny, vulnerable style of alt rock.

Matt joins us in this episode to talk about how the new album came about, including a very honest song written with Scott Stevens, tracking down album art from Fred Stonehouse, and the improbable story of how he ended up with his wife, Brazlian punk rocker Karen Dió. We highly recommend the new album, and checking out DPU on tour with A Day to Remember and Yellowcard! It was a pleasure to speak with such a lovely chap, and we're looking forward to rocking out with him on Shiprocked. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E282 PLAIINS on Their Debut Album, Hamburg, Wearing Paper Bags, and Making People Laugh About Themselves

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to put on Happy Faces! And by that, we mean the debut album from Germany's indie punks PLAIINS. Chris, Flo, and Dizzy joined us to discuss how they remain playful in their music even while covering weighty topics like fanatical nationalism, music industry racism, and mistreatment of the working class. It's a fine line, but their album walks it well. Plus, Elton John turns back the clock, a deep dive into the psychology of Burning Questions, and why it's probably smart to put eye holes in your paper bag masks. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E281 Concert Catch-up: Winona Fighter and MSPAINT

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a Thursday episode! Aaron saw pod favorites Winona Fighter at the Q101 Lounge and pod newcomers MSPAINT at Wicker Park Fest, and he's got a wholesome tale to tell about it as we continue another run of Tuesday interview episodes. If you've ever wondered what an intimate radio station performance is like, this is the episode for you. Plus, an inter-generational bonding experience and a tribute to a departed friend. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E280 Arejay Hale of Halestorm on Marriage, KemikalFire, Ozzy's Last Show, and Growing as a Lyricist on Everest

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to reach new heights! Halestorm's new album Everest arrives on August 8th, and drummer Arejay Hale stopped by to become a three-time guest and talk about it! This album was a growth experience for him as a writer, as he took a more prominent role as a lyricist as the band pivoted to a more internal approach with fewer co-writers than on previous records. Of course, it wouldn't be a proper Arejay conversation without bouncing around to a few other topics (and bands!), including his hopes and plans for KemikalFire (his band with Lit drummer Taylor Carroll), newlywed life with his bride Emily Watson, and the surreal experience of playing Ozzy Osbourne's final show. This one has its share of insight and introspection, but it still includes at least one movie quote for the savvy listener. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E279 CRegg Rondell of Boy Hits Car on New Music, Returning to the Road, and Being a Blockbuster Stuntman

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for Lovecore! CRegg Rondell of Boy Hits Car joins us for a look at the band's history as they prepare for their first show in a year, a gig at the famous Whiskey a Go Go that was originally planned for May before Boy Hits Car was postponed due to Truck Hits Bar. We also discuss the impact of the band's self-titled album, the challenges of being independent in the streaming era, performing barefoot, and CRegg's could-have-been alternate career. It was a pleasure to speak with the man behind a band that may yet get the flowers we've always thought they deserved. Enjoy.

Photo credit (as best we can tell): Syracuse.com

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E278 Concert Catch-up: Babymetal, Jinjer, Bloodywood, and The Warning

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for our cutest episode ever! not only did Dan get to see Babymetal, but he brought a couple kids of his own... and then had them on the show to talk about it! That's right, it's the proper debut of Dan's sons Dean and Jacoby, who have eyes on taking over the show. Hear them become famous before your very ears as they tell us all about their experience seeing Babymetal, Jinjer, and Bloodywood, and why KC supposedly made the wrong decision to see The Warning that night instead. You're gonna love it.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E277 Retro Champ on Rap, Rock, and Wrestling, Losing a Parent, and Remembering Adam Ramey

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to go retro! We're showing hometown pride again as St. Louis' own Retro Champ joins us to discuss his past, present, and future in music. Retro is the very definition of "rap rock," taking inspiration from both classic MCs and nu metallers like Linkin Park and Hed PE. We discovered him when he opened for Oxymorrons, and in this discussion we dive into that relationship, as well as other impactful relationships, such as his late mother and the recently passed Adam Ramey of Dropout Kings. Retro also speaks candidly about the challenges of staying inspired in the difficult music business. Meanwhile, Aaron can't wait to sneak in a wrestling question. This one is a good mix of insight and entertainment. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] Wayne Static, High School Math Teacher?

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

As mentioned in this week's conversation with elementary school teacher and dead7 frontman Jason Kozik, here's the story of Dan's high school match teacher, who bore a curious resemblance to Wayne Static of Static-X. We've had this clip in the archives since 2021. It was due to see the light of day. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E276 Jason Kozik of dead7 on Dealing With Deaths, Teaching Special Ed, and Being SharpTone's St. Louis Band

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for local boys to make good! Jason Kozik of St. Louis' own dead7 joins us on the eve of their debut release with SharpTone Records, Love What You Can While You Got Something Left To Love. The album, full of riffs, ambiance, and not entirely traditional arrangements (plus a dash of heavy pop punk), drops July 11th, and we share Jason's excitement for you to hear it. In this episode, we talk fine tuning a band name, working with The Funeral Portrait and Gore., and balancing a career as an elementary school teacher while also making time to rock out. Plus, "AI art" is still not a thing, and The Itch receives a delicious idea on how to turn a profit at the next Pointfest. Enjoy.

Episode art photo: Brewer at xTURNBUCKLEx Photography

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E275 The Itch On Tour: Brand New

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for something new! Brand New is back for the first time since 2017, and we've got to talk about the Chicago date of their tour. But first, we'll explore their history, evolution, and of course, the elephant in the room. It's a complicated topic, but worth diving into.

If you've been groomed or otherwise abused in any way, please speak out. We know it can be difficult, but justice and healing are worth it. We support you.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E274 Concert Catch-up: Winona Fighter, Good Boy Daisy, Sleigh Bells, Sophie Hunter, Phantogram, and more!

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for ladies' night! The Itch saw a series of shows featuring fantastic frontwomen, including some friends of the show, some hopeful future friends of the show, and some first times seeing longtime favorites! Join us for plenty of cool as Aaron finally sees Phantogram and Sleigh Bells (with Sophie Hunter) and KC and Dan catch two-time Itch guests Winona Fighter with twin sister duo Good Boy Daisy and St. Louis' own Fight Back Mountain! Join us to talk overmodulation, Aaron's new crush, Dan and KC digging some pop rock, the importance of a live band, and an album title you can't say five times fast. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Replay: Millennium Mania

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a throwback! We're celebrating 20 albums turning 25 with an episode from back in our Rock Matters days of 2020! Check out our takes on albums from Deftones, hed PE, Flogging Molly, Cold, Lostprophets, The Offspring, Limp Bizkit, Disturbed, A Perfect Circle, Godsmack, Orgy, Fuel, Rage Against the Machine, Papa Roach, Goldfinger, Evanescence, Lifehouse, Our Lady Peace, Earthsuit, and Project 86! Enjoy... again.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E273 New Rock Roundup: ALT BLK ERA, Architects, The Darkness, and Sleep Token

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for new rock! We're five months into 2025 and overdue to spotlight some of our favorite albums of the year so far. The Itch has been enjoying sounds from across the rock spectrum, and we're excited to share them with you. Whether it's the moody drum and bass of ALT BLK ERA, the versatile metalcore of Architects, the unpredictable glam rock of The Darkness, or the praise and R&B-tinged rock of Sleep Token, you're sure to dig something in this episode. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E272 Concert Catch-up: Pointfest, Primus, Puscifer, A Perfect Circle, and Padflower... er, Badflower

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to rebel! AI art is trash, and you shouldn't use it. But if you put on a show as fun as this year's Pointfest, we'll forgive you. Mostly. The whole team made it to see 311 headline a lineup that also featured The Urge, Toadies, Finger Eleven, Sick Puppies, Alien Ant Farm, and our boys Oxymorrons and Tree One Four! Hear about the bands who impressed, The Point's second faux pas, and what legendary collaboration we finally got to see live! Plus, Aaron watches Josh Katz of Badflower try to burp, and KC and Dan celebrate Maynard James Keenan's 61st birthday by politely enduring Puscifer to get to Primus and A Perfect Circle! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E271 Shiprocked Lineup Reaction

Tue, 27 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for community. Last week, the rock world experienced tragic losses. In this episode we honor those we lost and celebrate the way they touched people's lives and brought so many together through their involvement in music. And likewise, we also celebrate a part of the rock world that they were familiar with, and that has become a part of The Itch's DNA: Shiprocked. The lineup has been announced, and this year will hold special significance for us once again. Enjoy our initial breakdown of what we're most looking forward to in the cruise, and please consider supporting the family of Adam Ramey if you're able.

GoFundMe for the Family of Dropout Kings' Adam Ramey

Shiprocked 2026 Playlist

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E270 Concert Catch-up: Boston Manor, Ocean Grove, Hot Milk, Pop Evil, Gore., and more!

Tue, 20 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to party! KC's birthday week was stacked with shows featuring podcast guests, and The Itch got to see plenty of them! First, KC and Aaron catch Boston Manor at the Subterranean in Chicago on their first ever US headline tour, with a diverse supporting trio of Farmer's Wife, Spaced, and Ellis. Then they swing over to the Bottom Lounge to see Ocean Grove supporting Thornhill with Avoid and Banks Arcade. Aaron somehow manages to turn two shows into one on the same night, creating a lineup where Hot Milk and Savage Hands ultimately open for Pop Evil. And finally, KC and Dan catch Gore. at Delmar Hall in St. Louis as they support Of Mice & Men and Until I Wake. It was a lot. And it was awesome. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E269 Alizon Taho and Ben Parker of Calva Louise on Time Travel, Tour Pranks, and DIY Innovation

Tue, 13 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a reunion! Alizon and Ben, our vacation buddies and international inspirations from Calva Louise, return to discuss their brilliant new album Edge of the Abyss, which drops on July 11th. We discuss the interpretive nature of art, the rich story lore that carries through music videos across albums, and the familiar friends they reunited with on Shiprocked. Plus, Aaron wishes he could be more specific about Alizon's invention, and Bloodywood is very good at pranks. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E268 Arya Goggin of Skindred on New Music and Releasing Their Biggest Record 20 Years Into Their Career

Thu, 08 May 2025 08:30:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a homecoming! Arya Goggin of Skindred was our second ever interview, back in November 2020. To celebrate 5 years as a podcast, the man who drums on our theme song makes his long overdue return to keep our weekly interview streak going. We've spoken at length about the huge role Skindred plays in The Itch's story, so Arya was the perfect choice. And he brings not only a great memory of his experiences in St. Louis (and our previous conversation), but the amazing story of Skindred's unexpected grassroots ascent to the top of the UK music charts with their most recent album Smile, plus a side project he hopes the world eventually hears, and a surprising percussion instrument that might make an appearance on Skindred's completed ninth album. Arya was one of our first guests, and he's one of our favorites. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E267 The Itch On Tour: Dorothy and Cory Marks

Tue, 06 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a homecoming! Itch guests Dorothy and her guitarist, our fellow St Louisian Sam Bam Koltun, played at The Hawthorn with Cory Marks, and The Itch had to be there! After dropping The Itch's Album of the Year, Gifts From the Holy Ghost, in 2022, Dorothy just released her follow up, The Way, which adds a bit of outlaw country flare to her rock stylings. Meanwhile, Sam Bam recently added yet another band to his resume by playing a European tour with Godsmack. Plus, Dan looks on the bright side and people state the obvious to KC. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] The Music Menu

Thu, 01 May 2025 08:00:00 -0000

It's our podcast anniversary and this month we're scratching The Itch to celebrate! The Itch Rock Podcast debuted on May 9th, 2020, originally under the name "Rock Matters". What started as a replacement for our radio show when lockdown closed the station has now become a 5-year journey that's taken us across the country, the podcast world, and even into international waters all in the name of rock. Now, 300+ audio offerings (including 100+ artist interviews) later, we're going strong on our longest weekly interview streak to date. We'll be celebrating this month by bringing back some of our favorite guests and seeing many more in concert.

To start the party, we're combining two features that were staples of our earlier shows but have become less frequent as we've focused on talking with our favorite artists: Short Cuts and games. This not-quite-a-full-episode bit was recorded shortly after our conversation with John Cooper of Skillet, when Aaron went down a deep, dorky rabbit whole of bands you could find in the kitchen. Enjoy our tastiest Short Cut, dubbed "The Music Menu", and let us know what delicious dishes you would add!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E266 Han Mee and Jim Shaw of Hot Milk on Punk Ethos, American Insanity, and the Death of Genre

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for honesty! Han Mee and Jim Shaw of Hot Milk join us for a refreshingly candid conversation about their new album Corporation P.O.P (out June 27th) and the ideas surrounding it, including shedding an ill-fitting "pop punk" tag, writing quickly to capture the moment, English identity, and American insanity. Plus, a dodgy opening scene, an Anchorman joke, and Dan's family responsibilities strike again. This is a good one. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E265 Justin Benlolo of BRKN LOVE on Self-Reflection, Trainwreck Shows, and Translating the Studio to the Stage

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get with The Program! BRKN LOVE just dropped an excellent album by that name, and we talked all about it with frontman Justin Benlolo. We discuss the recording and release rollout differences from their prior records, worrying less about how a studio recording will translate on stage, and how in relationships, we're often the ones hurting ourselves. Then The Itch gets further context about BRKN LOVE's memorable Shiprocked 2024 performance and Justin reveals the album to bury him with. Plus, a surprising genre tag, the allure of Charleston, South Carolina, and the Michael Jackson song that absolutely sucks. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E264 The Itch On Tour: Superbloom and Footballhead

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to bloom! Aaron had quite an unusual adventure seeing Superbloom and Footballhead at the Cobra Lounge in Chicago, so we had to discuss the oddities of the evening and how he might be the ultimate anti-wingman. But also, bands! Superbloom is a standout in the 90s rock revival, and Footballhead had the right energy to make a good first impression. Enjoy a brief interruption of our interview streak for a quick reminder that live shows are the best!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E263 Cody Hanson of Hinder on Divorced Dad Rock, Honest Songwriting, Longevity, and the Importance of Timing

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for extreme behavior. Cody Hanson of Hinder joins us for what turns into a roundtable talk about Bring Me Back to Life, the band's first new album since 2017. He discusses what made the band decide to record new music after initially planning not to, how "Everything Is a Cult" in modern society, how Hinder has embraced the title of "divorced dad rock," and songs from their past that could've hit it big like "Lips of an Angel" ... if the timing were right. Along the way we put respect on the name of Ian Thornley and Big Wreck and learn how many drum kits Cody has... and how many fish tanks Dan has. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E262 Devour the Day on Border Patrol, Enjoying the Adventure, and Opening for Themselves with Pop Evil

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to multitask! Blake Allison and Joey "Chicago" Walser formed Egypt Central in 2002, then Devour the Day in 2012, and most recently have both become members of Pop Evil. Being together in so many bands for so many years, they've amassed quite a bit of wisdom and experience... and some pretty wild stories. And they're always interested in the next challenge or opportunity. Currently, that means the ambitious task of pulling double duty on Devour the Day's tour supporting Pop Evil. Join us for a great conversation on how these two longtime friends started making music together, and what they still aim to accomplish. Plus, someone almost gets shot over an energy drink. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E261 Lotta Ruutiainen of LUNA KILLS on Sci-Fi, Discovering Deftones, Panic Attacks, and Lana Del Rey Tattoos

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for sci-fi! Lotta Ruutiainen of LUNA KILLS joins us to discuss her band's new album DEATHMATCH, including a song that came together through a writing practice she never wants to try again. We also discuss her love for all science fiction, the decision for a Finnish band to sing in English, her literal rock star tattoos, and the joy of discovering Deftones for the first time. Plus, The Itch dares to ask about a band name origin, and Aaron is reminded that he needs to see Blade Runner. (He now has.) Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E260 Gio and Jerrod of Giovannie and the Hired Guns on Blending Genres, Getting Responsible, and Being Texan

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to be quitters! Gio and Jerrod of Giovannie and the Hired Guns join us to talk about their new album Quitter. We discuss the making of the record, Gio getting responsible, how Jerrod became a Hired Gun, and what is easily the most entertaining dream tour we've heard so far.

Plus, Dan fears for his life, a venue still struggles to win us over, and The Itch sees a country show. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

March Bandness 2025 Voting Is Open!

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

March Bandness is live! The 5th Annual Itch Invitational Tournament features 8 first-time entries who dropped excellent albums in 2024. Vote here (or at the link in our IG bio) for your first round favorites and send 'em all the way to the championship! The winning band gets an episode dedicated to them, but you get the bragging rights for supporting the artists you love. The polls won't be open for long, so get your votes in and enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E259 Alan Koenig of ASK4 Entertainment on Shiprocked Origins, Poster Fonts, and Building the Best Festival Lineup

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to talk with the Captain! Alan Koenig, founder of ASK4 Entertainment and its flagship event Shiprocked (see what we did there?) joins us to discuss the past, present, and future of The Itch's favorite festival at sea. Join us for some fascinating insight into how the festival was born out of a working relationship with Vince Neil, the excitements and challenges of booking a lineup, and how Alan avoids issues with font size on festival posters. Plus, a sneak peak into the Carnival Horizon, the cruise's new boat for 2026, and The Itch makes a pitch. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E258 The Itch On Tour: Disturbed, Three Days Grace, and Sevendust + Local H (again, sort of!)

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get sick! Disturbed's all-time nu metal debut album The Sickness is 25 years old, and the band is playing it in full on tour. Alongside a now dual-fronted Three Days Grace and an always earnest Sevendust, the tour came through the Enterprise Center in St Louis... and so did The Itch. Plus, Aaron revisits an experience from last year, seeing a screening of Local H's film Lifers, and this time KC joins him! This one's got it all: fire, cinephiles, unexpected but entirely welcome cameos, and a lot of love for St Louis. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E257 Nathan Aurora of Aurorawave on Features, Fatherhood, and Breaking a Reggae Band Into the Rock World

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for reggae metal! Nathan Aurora's band Aurorawave released one of our favorite albums of 2024, and he's putting the finishing touches on the exciting follow-up. Nathan joins us to talk about straddling the line between his reggae roots and his metal aspirations, the Crossed Heart Clothing company he runs with his wife, how he got guest features like Brandon Saller and Dan Jacobs of Atreyu and Jonathan Vigil of The Ghost Inside on his band's debut album, and the time his baby was his biggest critic. Nathan is one of the most driven guests we've had, and one of the easiest conversations. Enjoy. And if you know a reggae keyboardist who can scream, send him Nathan's way.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

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E256 Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire and Anberlin on Blindside, Removing Our Masks, and Learning to Say No

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to take off our masks. Matty Mullins of Memphis May Fire and Anberlin joins us to discuss the new Memphis album Shapeshifter, which looks internally to how we can become better versions of ourselves by unmasking our shames and shortcomings. We'll also discuss how he got his favorite band to appear on the album, balancing the responsibilities of two bands (and the rest of life), and the amazing work his wife Brittany and friend Jake Luhrs of August Burns Red are doing with the nonprofit organization HeartSupport. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E255 The Itch On Tour: Jerry Cantrell and Filter

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get Chains'd! Aaron and KC returned to The Hawthorn in St. Louis to see Jerry Cantrell and Filter on the "I Want Blood" tour. Join us for more Itch Etiquette, an all-star backing band, and Aaron (somehow) seeing a middle school friend's uncle live for the first time. Plus, many questions are answered, including: -Would(?) The Hawthorn redeem itself after the Sleep Token Incident of 2023? -Is time travel possible? -CAN you trip like I do?

Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E254 Eric Bass of Shinedown on Imposter Syndrome and Writing a Personal Album With Fictional Characters

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for some world building! Eric Bass of Shinedown joins us to discuss his outstanding debut solo album Eric Bass Presents... I Had A Name. It's a thrilling rock opera of sorts featuring a cast of characters battling against villainous forces,... and sometimes their own minds. Eric speaks candidly about the fascinating process that led to the album (in between Shinedown records, no less), his own mental diagnoses and faith journey, the album's upcoming companion graphic novel, and how he realized after the fact that the songs he thought were about fictional people were in many ways about himself.

Plus, Dan gets to say thank you to a guy who created one of his all-time favorite albums. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E253 Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D. on His New Book, Surviving the Music Business, and How Nothing Is a Coincidence

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to read a book! Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D. is releasing his autobiography, Son of Southtown: My Life Between Two Worlds on February 25th. He joins the show to discuss his story of God's faithfulness, band drama and reconciliation, and the changes and challenges of the music industry. Plus, Aaron has his long-awaited chance to ask about the cover art of The Fundamental Elements of Southtown, we learn about the process behind P.O.D.'s newest album Veritas, and a child discovers a guaranteed way to make money on tour. This was a wishlist conversation, and it didn't disappoint. Enjoy.

Episode art photo: https://www.gabelugophotos.com/

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E252 Winona Fighter on Their Debut Album, Supporting Local Scenes, Doggy Managers, and the Bass of Doom

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to fight! Coco from Winona Fighter returns, and this time she brought the boys! Join her, Dan, and Austin as they break down the origins of some of the songs on their debut LP My Apologies to the Chef (out Feb 28), their choice to hand pick the opening acts for the corresponding Yes, Chef tour (including our mutual friends Fury in Few), and their commitment to staying authentic and supportive in the music world while still keeping their sanity. Plus, a special guest joins us to add questionably timed commentary. Enjoy!

And if you're an artist who needs some collaboration writing, producing, mixing, mastering, or bassing your new music, give Austin a shout!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E251 Itchiversary: Shiprocked 2025 Recap Part 2

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 09:15:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to keep celebrating! Our Shiprocked coverage continues, as the guys wrap up the week with 80s covers, a pair of epic sets on the beach, a slippery stage, a late night call to Halestorm, and ... Ace Ventura? Plus, Dan goes snorkeling, KC is rewarded for resisting the soft serve machine, and Aaron meets a brother in curls... who also happens to be in Kid Kapichi.

Mentioned in this episode (and/or episode 250): Parkway Drive, Hollywood Undead, Nothing More, The Struts, 10 Years, Atreyu, Austin Meade, Buckcherry, Calva Louise, Ded, Des Rocs, Devour the Day, Diamante, Flat Black, The Ghost Inside, Ghostkid, The Glorious Sons, Goodbye June, Hawk, Jigsaw Youth, Jinjer, Kid Kapichi, Lansdowne, The Native Howl, Nevertel, Oxymorrons, Plush, P.O.D., Rivals, Silly Goose, Spiritworld, and Rubiks Groove, plus Itch guests Keith Wallen of Breaking Benjamin and Taylor Carroll of Lit and KemikalFire among the all-star Stowaways! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E250 Itchiversary: Shiprocked 2025 Recap Part 1

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a birthday celebration! Our radio show was born 21 years ago this month, and to celebrate that milestone (and 250 episodes), the guys spent a wild week on the water with 31 bands on Shiprocked! Join us to kick off a new "season" with tales of broken lights, budding friendships, on-stage pranks, and the game show that created an unlikely legend.

Oh, and those 31 bands we saw/met/discuss in this episode? Parkway Drive, Hollywood Undead, Nothing More, The Struts, 10 Years, Atreyu, Austin Meade, Buckcherry, Calva Louise, Ded, Des Rocs, Devour the Day, Diamante, Flat Black, The Ghost Inside, Ghostkid, The Glorious Sons, Goodbye June, Hawk, Jigsaw Youth, Jinjer, Kid Kapichi, Lansdowne, The Native Howl, Nevertel, Oxymorrons, Plush, P.O.D., Rivals, Silly Goose, and Spiritworld, plus Itch guests Keith Wallen of Breaking Benjamin and Taylor Carroll of Lit and KemikalFire among the all-star Stowaways! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E249 Emma Anzai of Sick Puppies & Evanescence on Bass Solos, Beastie Boys, and Metallica and Halestorm Tours

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for bass! Emma Anzai, co-founder of Sick Puppies and more recent addition to Evanescence, joins us to discuss Wave the Bull, Sick Puppies' first new album in nine years. We discuss the prominence of her bass guitar in some of the tracks, the Beastie Boys influence in their recent single "Going Places," their upcoming tour with Metallica, handling jet lag when traveling from Australia to basically anywhere else in the world, and an interaction with a certain magnifiscent smelling Itch guest while on tour with Halestorm. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Shiprocked Replay Pt 2: Oxymorrons on Performative Justice, Marvel, and Re-educating the Scene (from 2022)

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get educated! Shiprocked sails along, we bring you the second part of the 2022 conversation that introduced us to Oxymorrons. And this is where it gets serious (while somehow remaining silly). Dee, KI, Jafe, and Matty dive deep on the authentic vs the performative, the futility of social media, the cheapening of art as content, and putting Black faces in rock spaces. Plus, Dan makes a new comic geek buddy, Aaron gives a guest homework, and we're bringing skits back. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Shiprocked Replay Pt 1: Oxymorrons on Dragonball Z, New York Bodegas, and Rock’s Black Roots (from 2022)

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0000

This week we're scratching The Itch to ... not be here! The boys are back on a boat enjoying Shiprocked, but while we're out partying with Oxymorrons, we thought we'd post a pair of throwback episodes to when we first met them three years ago, kicking off a genuine friendship. This two-part conversation remains quite possibly our all-time favorite. And when you listen, you'll understand why. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E248 Janine Shilstone of VUKOVI on Art As Therapy, Touring with Unpeople & Calva Louise, and Scottish War Horns!

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for Sno! It's not only in St Louis and Chicago, but in Scotland as well! Janine Shilstone of VUKOVI becomes The Itch's first Scottish guest as she joins us to discuss "Sno," the newest single from (and a character in) her band's new album My God Has Got a Gun, out January 25th on SharpTone Records! It's a vulnerable discussion about the various things that helped her heal from being in a dark place, including therapy, touring the US with Itch guests Calva Louise, and using her own paintings as album art.

Plus, stuff gets broken on stage, The Itch signs off on a Lady Gaga/VUKOVI tour, and Dan has a question about swearing.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E247 The Itch Awards and Top 20 Albums of 2024

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 06:30:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for awards season, baby! The fifth annual Itch Awards are here, honoring the best rock releases of 2024. We've got albums galore, featuring a plethora of past and future guests. Who were our favorite debuts and breakouts of the year? Who dropped the best EP and LP? And what are we looking forward to in 2025? This is a big'n, so grab your pen and paper and take notes, because we're about to fill up your queue. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E246 New Year's Eva II with Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to send the year out in style! Official fourth member Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire joins us for another holiday tradition (and to continue building her lead as our most frequent guest). Despite not releasing much in the way of new music, 2024 was still a year of firsts and gains for Eva and the boys, and we're here to talk about all of it. Well, most of us anyway. Dan wasn't able to make it until the end of the conversation, but a cameo still counts! Join us for another insightful chat with Eva about singing on stage with your idols, becoming an award-winning actress (and The Itch becoming award-winning producers, sort of!), and one heckuva preview of the new Eva Under Fire music set to show up in 2025. Happy New Year's Eva, everyone!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

For any and all friendship, questions, inquiries, and offers of pizza, The Itch can be found at the following: Website: itchrocks.com Twitter: Twitter.com/itchrocks Facebook: Facebook.com/itchrocks Instagram: Instagram.com/itchrocks Email: itchrocks@gmail.com

E245 Christmas Concert Catch-up: The All-American Rejects

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 08:30:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for Christmas cheer! As a follow-up to our recent conversation with Nick Wheeler of The All-American Rejects, The Itch venture out to see the band on not one, but TWO shows of their holiday run... and we weren't alone! A special guest host joins us, bringing a fresh perspective to a rare singularly-focused Concert Catch-up. Enjoy, and merry Christmas from The Itch!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E244 A Conversation with Brandon Yeagley of Crobot

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get choppy! The excellently facial-haired Brandon Yeagley of Crobot joins us for a conversation full of industry insight, artistic excitement, and... giant eggs. We were introduced to Brandon in a quite memorable way at Upheaval 2023, and when you hear this conversation, you'll understand why he's endeared himself to us even more. Enjoy, and check out Crobot touring with fellow Itch guests Nonpoint and Heartsick this January!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E243 A Conversation with Jason Zeilstra and Adam Woloszyn of Nonpoint

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:30:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a tradition! Jason Zeilstra of Nonpoint continues introducing us to his bandmates one by one. one year at a time, this time joining us alongside bassist Adam Woloszyn! The fellas recap another eventful year for the band, compare stories of on-stage injuries, share their memories of Nonpoint's upcoming anniversary albums Statement and To The Pain, and talk one of their other mutual passions... superhero nerdery!

Nonpoint will be touring the US in January with fellow Itch guests Crobot (wait, what?) and Heartsick. This is one you'll absolutely want to see if you can.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E242 A Conversation with Nick Wheeler of The All-American Rejects

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 08:15:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for rejection! Well, in a sense. Nick Wheeler, guitarist and co-founder of The All-American Rejects joins us for a freewheeling discussion (see what I did there?) that covers his history with the band, his current studio work, and ... his favorite rewatch podcasts? Plus, Taco Bell talk, Aaron declares a Perfect Pop Song, and Dan finally finds a context to bring up Smallville! We say it often, but this is a fun one. Enjoy. And come hang with The Itch in St. Louis and Chicago as we see The Rejects on their Christmas show mini-run!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E241 Clipisode: Leftovers V

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 08:15:00 -0000

Today we're scratching The Itch for a post-Thanksgiving tradition! To show our gratitude to our incredible guests and listeners, we've compiled a collection of previously unheard clips from each of our 2024 interviews. We hope you enjoy this extra helping of conversational goodness as you recover from your food coma. If you listen all the way through, you'll find previews of a few future episodes as an early Christmas gift. Enjoy.

Featured in this episode: Fury in Few, Fire From the Gods, Dead Poet Society, Eva Under Fire, Keith Wallen, Paralandra, Unpeople, KemikalFire, Lowlives, Micah Bournes, Tree One Four, Hang Your Hate, The Exies, Flat Black, Apocalyptica, Jutes, Wes Anderson, Fame on Fire, Gore., Atreyu, Boston Manor, Skillet, Pop Evil, Ocean Grove, The All-American Rejects, Nonpoint, and Crobot.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E240 Concert Catch-up: Ben Folds, Lit, The Exies, and more!

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for the greatest week in the history of our sport... er, podcast. Find out why as we recap a trio of shows by artists who are aging like fine wine (though that's probably not what they drink).

First, Aaron won't stop til he gets to Normal (or technically Bloomington) to throw paper airplanes at Ben Folds and hear about how Effington could be a wonderful effingplace. Then, KC heads to Chicago and he and Aaron see our friend Taylor Carroll and Lit on their run with the legendary Butch Walker and Marvelous 3. And finally, the guys hit the road to the Machine Shop in Flint for the second year in a row, this time to see if Scott Stevens and The Exies still have it. Spoiler: They do. Will these be our last live shows of the year? Probably not. But if they are, we're finishing on a high note! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E239 A Conversation with Dale Tanner of Ocean Grove

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:30:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to go green! Dale Tanner of Ocean Grove joins us from Melbourne, Australia to discuss the band's new album ODDWORLD. We cover the band's shift in sound from the grunge-y alt rock on their previous two albums to their more nu metal roots, their unique membership setup and the difference between "Ocean Grove" and the "ODDWORLD Collective," and his support of organizations such as Support Act and Sea Shepherd. Ocean Grove is a band on the rise, and Dale's talent matched by his passion for health on a personal and global scale. The Itch's first guest from Down Under doesn't disappoint. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E238 A Conversation with Nick Fuelling of Pop Evil

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get evil! Guitarist Nick Fuelling of Pop Evil joins us to check off one of Dan's wish list band conversations. Pop Evil recently released "What Remains", the first single from an album set to release in Spring 2025. Nick talks about the new song, the new lineup (which "devoured" another band, one might say), and which Major League Baseball stadiums he's partial to. Plus, he confirms a longtime Itch theory about the band's name. Enjoy.

Episode art photography by Wolfe Eliot.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Thank you so much for listening. If you like what you hear, please subscribe and leave a positive review and rating on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser to help our audience grow. If you don't like what you hear, please tell us anyway to help our skills grow.

E237 Concert Catch-up: Seether, Skillet, Wage War, Fame on Fire, Local H (sort of), and more!

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a first! This concert catch-up takes a new twist when one of us sees not just a concert, but a concert film made by Local H! And even recorded, it's somehow a great live show! Join us to recap the tour featuring Seether, Itch guests Skillet, Tim Montana, and Royale Lynn, plus Wage War and 2x Itch guests Fame on Fire!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E236 A Conversation with John Cooper of Skillet

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a revolution! John Cooper of Skillet joins us to talk about their new album of the same name. But though they're known for fist-pumping rockers, we actually spend most of our conversation discussing the band's softer side. Namely, how John and his wife Korey raised their two children on the road, and the song John wrote for his daughter's wedding. Plus, going independent, how to ensure that you're a favorite tour mate to other bands, and playing four square with Corey Taylor. It's a truly wholesome affair. Also, Aaron confirms the superior diet soda and tries to sell John on going old school! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E235 A Conversation with Mike Cunniff of Boston Manor

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a sunrise and a surprise! Mike Cunniff of Boston Manor joins us to discuss the band's fantastic two-part album(s) 2022's Datura and the newly released Sundiver. If you're wondering how one thematically connected album is released two years apart, we've got your explanation! Join us to hear about the intricate balance of creating songs that stand alone and fit together, the pedal Mike created, and the band's successful attempt to leverage their audience to help their hometown. Plus, we gush about the hot UK rock scene and explore the wild possibilities of technology.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E234 A Conversation with Brandon Saller of Atreyu

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for imagination! Atreyu is about to release The Pronoia Sessions, a connection of reimagined classics, and frontman Brandon Saller joined The Itch's trifecta club to talk about it. Brandon's amazing voice is on display more than ever on the new record, and his vibrant personality and artist's heart are on display throughout our conversation. Join us to hear about his original dream of recreating Nirvana's MTV Unplugged set, his desire to constantly challenge himself to grow, and a surprising cover choice that may or may not have ever been in serious consideration for The Pronoia Sessions.

Episode art credit: Ana Massard

Our experience seeing Atreyu live: itchrocks.com/104 Our review of 2021's Baptize: itchrocks.com/59

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E233 Concert Catch-up: The Movement, Aurorawave, Saosin, Lowlives, Badflower, and more!

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for consistency! It's time for our regularly scheduled Badflower coverage, plus our first time seeing 2-time guests Lowlives, and our introduction to a reggae metal band that ISN'T Skindred! Join us to hear about a very relaxing night featuring The Movement, Long Beach Dub Allstars, and Aurorawave, a sold-out double bill with Saosin and Lowlives, and Badflower's latest on-stage insanity alongside Slothrust and Missio! We've got stories of second hand smoke, narrow stairs (but not the Death Cab kind), and ... bananas? Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E232 Riot Fest Recap + HANS FREAKIN' ZIMMER

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to Riot! For the fourth year in a row, Aaron ventured to Chicago's own Riot Fest... and this time he finally brought friends! Not only that, but he bookended two days at the festival with memorable shows from The Offspring and, perhaps most punk rock of all, legendary composer Hans Zimmer! Join us for tales of epic soundtracks, Olympic heroes, testing the limits of Chicago parking, and ... butter John Stamos? It's the kind of weird you wanna be in on. Trust us, and enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E231 A Conversation with Alex King and Devin Birchfield of GORE.

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for DOOMSDAY! The (mostly) Texas-based GORE. is one of the most exciting new bands in the metal world, and we were thrilled to speak with guitarist Alex King and bassist Devin Birchfield about their debut EP, A Bud That Never Blooms, out October 25th on Spinefarm Records. The fellas recount how they connected to frontwoman (and NASA engineer) Haley Roughton, their excitement about what's already next on the horizon, and the "emotional gore" that leads them to suspect that if their music isn't making you cry, they're not doing their job. Plus, of course, some major music nerdery in the Burning Questions section. These guys are going to the moon, so join us for lift off before their EP launches them to stardom. Insert space pun here, and enjoy.

Episode art photo: Porshe Aremia of Full Send Studios

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E230 Concert Catch-up: Weezer, The Flaming Lips, In This Moment, Ice Nine Kills, Joey Valence & Brae, and more!

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to visit the Blue Planet! Three decades of fandom come to a head as Aaron sees Weezer perform The Blue Album for the first time with support from the ever-entertaining Flaming Lips. And he followed that up by seeing a new act with a throwback 90s hip hop sound in the ever-confident Joey Valence & Brae! Meanwhile, KC had a mixed bag of a time seeing In This Moment, Ice Nine Kills, and Avatar. Let's just say the whole experience was a little foggy. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E229 Concert Catch-up: Oxymorrons, VRSTY, Nothing More, Eva Under Fire, Post Profit, & The Burkharts

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to keep catchin' up! Concerts continue to abound, and this one includes the rhyming trifecta of friendships, road trips, and vacation pro tips! Join us to hear insights about the touring life from friends (current and hopefully future) Oxymorrons, VRSTY, Nothing More, Eva Under Fire, Post Profit, & The Burkharts. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E228 A(nother) Conversation with Bryan Kuznitz of Fame on Fire

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to run it back! Bryan Kuznitz of Fame on Fire is back to talk about the the band's new album The Death Card, which drops on Sept 6. Insightful and ever-honest, Bryan explains the thematic threads throughout the album, and gives an eye-opening report on the difficulties of being an artist in the age of Spotify and Ticketmaster. Plus, we revisit an amusing story from Shiprocked 2023, when Bryan almost introduced Dan to grandson. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E227 A Conversation with Wes Anderson

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to collaborate! Wes Anderson is a longtime internet friend of ours with an impeccable record of guest features on his music. His new single, "Goodbye," features two-time Itch guest Stephen Richards of Taproot, and his previous track, "Heads Are Gonna Roll," features Benji Webbe of The Itch's Official Favorite Band, Skindred. So the time had finally come for Wes himself to be a guest on the show! Join us for an enlightening conversation about life as an independent artist, the downsides of creating a diverse portfolio of music, and exactly how he makes connections, and even friendships, with so many talented artists. Enjoy, and pre-save "Goodbye" here!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E226 Concert Catch-up: Primus, Paralandra, I Prevail, Halestorm, Hollywood Undead, Silly Goose, and more!

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to share the wealth! It's another Concert Catch-up, but this time with stories from the whole gang! We saw no less than 10 bands, recently, including an Itch radio staple, some concert buddies, two podcast guests, some hopeful future guests, and a self-described "brass house" band. There's truly something for everyone to appreciate, and maybe even discover. Enjoy our live review experiences, seeing Primus, Coheed and Cambria, Too Many Zooz, I Prevail, Halestorm, Hollywood Undead, Fit For a King, Lynch Mob, Paralandra, and Silly Goose!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E225 A Conversation with Jutes

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for future deja vu! Jutes' album Ladybug made our top 20 of 2023, and his upcoming follow-up Sleepyhead is shaping up as a contender for 2024! We had to have this prolific songwriter on to discuss his shifting sounds, the challenges of being an independent artist, and balancing his desire for a quiet, private life with the public nature of his relationship with Demi Lovato. Our chat with Jutes was insightful and enjoyable, and as a surprise, we bet you won't guess who he once played pickup basketball with. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E224 New Rock Roundup: Bring Me the Horizon, The Warning, Nothing More, & Dead Pony

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a roundup! We're talking about four of our favorite albums from the second quarter of 2024. And it's an Itch International Rock Roundup to boot, featuring Britain's Bring Me the Horizon, Mexico's The Warning, Texas' Nothing More, and Scotland's Dead Pony! That's right, Texas is it's own country. It's a mix of heavy hitters and rising stars. Genre shifters and multilinguists. Men, women, and (nearly) children. And it's a sonic treat for everyone. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E223 Concert Catch-up: Micah Bournes, Fury in Few, Metric, & The New Pornographers

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for unique concert experiences! Aaron saw four shows in four very different environments, and now the guys have to break down the details on poetry readings, surprising mosh pit members, when smoke machines go wrong, and what you get when you choose the free show. Check out The Itch's experiences seeing Micah Bournes, Metric, The New Pornographers, and Fury in Few. With guest appearances by Mykah Estelle, Jerry Rodriguez and Heet Deth!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E222 A Conversation with Eicca Toppinen of Apocalyptica

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for the end times! Eicca Toppinen of Apocalyptica joins us to discuss the cello metallers' new album Plays Metallica Vol. 2. Join us to hear about why they followed up on the album that put them on the map nearly 30 years ago, why their tour features the best Metallica set list ever, and (of course) the hard-hitting question of why they included the polarizing "St. Anger." Eicca is a many of many talents and an infectious spirit, and you know The Itch perks up at any chance to talk about Metallica. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E221 A Conversation with Jason Hook of Flat Black

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get hooked! Deal with that pun as Jason Hook of Flat Black joins us to discuss the process of starting a band from scratch after reaching some of rock's highest highs in his previous band. Flat Black's debut album "Dark Side of the Brain" is out July 19th, and Jason has been itching (see, it comes full circle) to talk about it. We cover the origins of the band's name, selecting the lineup, the advantages and disadvantages of his name value, and preparing Flat Black for longevity. Jason knows a thing or two, and he's happy to share. Join us, and enjoy.

Episode art credit: Iron Mike Savoia

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E220 The Upheaval Draft

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for Michigan! Grand Rapids' Upheaval Festival is coming up, and in a callback to last years coverage, we're breaking down this year's lineup. But this time, it's an Itch fantasy draft, as we each build our own stage from the Upheaval lineup! Shout out to past guests Chris Meyer of MiEntertainment and Rebecca Potzner of BandedPR, as well as the rest of the Upheaval team for going strong for another year!

As mentioned in this episode, here's the GoFundMe for Heather Bedsaul, wife of our friend Blake Bedsaul of SAUL.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E219 A(nother) Conversation with Scott Stevens of The Exies

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for Closure! After 17 years, The Exies are back with a new EP, and band leader and Itch friend Scott Stevens joins us for the second time to discuss all the details. Scott reflects on the experience of creating these new songs (and playing the band's reunion show at The Viper Room in LA) with his unique combination of adventurous curiosity, thoughtful introspection, and business savvy. Plus, The Itch determines which Beatles we are, and the show is interrupted by... National Geographic? Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E218 A Conversation with Hang Your Hate

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for serendipity! After a random introduction on an Instagram post, Columbia, Missouri's Hang Your Hate won us over (as discussed in episode 209) and eventually became must-have guests. So this week all five of our MoBros joined us for a breeze of a talk covering the origins of their (bandvantage) name, our mutual love for System of a Down, how they make their own opportunities, and so much more. You're gonna like these guys. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E217 A Conversation with Tree One Four

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for some hometown heroes! March Bandness winners and St Louis' own Tree One Four joins us to discuss the creative process, performing with The Urge, and last year's Monolithic Hieroglyphic, which landed them a spot on The Itch's Top 20 Albums list. Plus, the singles vs albums debate continues, Aaron misses half the show, and for the first time ever, our guest band has an alter ego! Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E216 A Conversation with Micah Bournes

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to fight evil with poetry. Aaron does his first ever solo interview with one of his favorite artists, poet and musician Micah Bournes. Micah is raising funds for a double album exploring the ins and outs of romance. Along with that, Micah discusses the nature of war, living as a nomad, using his words to create music, and, well, the audacity of caucacity. It's a wild ride that might change how you view art and the experience of being Black in America. Enjoy.

You can support Micah via his Patreon, where he constantly shares new poems and art that is influencing him.

Links to some of the poems and songs mentioned in this conversation: Just War Theory Native Tongue Freakshow Talk Is Cheap

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E215 A(nother) Conversation with Lee Downer and Luke Johnson of Lowlives

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for an instant sequel! We enjoyed our time with Lee and Luke of Lowlives so much that we asked for more of it! Their debut album, Freaking Out, is out now, and we're digging it and digging into it. Join us to hear the story behind their single "Liar," the difference between a good label and a bad one, how Luke almost left music behind, Billy Corgan's reaction to their music, and the dream tour that might lead them to break up on stage! Plus, Luke and Lee give The Itch a lesson in British politeness! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E214 A Conversation with Lee Downer and Luke Johnson of Lowlives

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get low with Lowlives! Lee Downer and Luke Johnson join us to discuss their journeys through the music industry and the myriad 90s rock influences behind their new earworm-filled debut LP, Freaking Out. Join us for entertaining insight, full music geekery, and the story behind the unsettling Helvis.

But wait, there's more! ... With Lowlives. Coming soon.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E213 Concert Catch-Up: Pointfest, Fury in Few, Calva Louise & VUKOVI, and Eve 6

Tue, 28 May 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for another set of shows! It was a week of favorites as Fury in Few, Calva Louise, and Oxymorrons all came through St Louis. Join us for an international adventure as Calva visits St Louis for the first time with their Scottish tourmates VUKOVI at Blueberry Hill's Duck Room. Then, Fury in Few brings The Itch to their home turf in our home town with a show at The Sinkhole, which included a special surprise that we've added to this episode! And to finish the week, Oxymorrons put on one of the best shows of Pointfest 2024. Plus, Aaron continues his streak of never paying to see Eve 6! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Replay: A Conversation with Tonya LeeAnne and Cody Denton of Lydia's Castle

Tue, 21 May 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This past week, the world lost Jon Wysocki. You may know him as the original drummer for Staind, or from his time in SOiL. The Itch knew him as the drummer for Lydia's Castle, one of the first bands to approach us directly about appearing on the show. About two years ago, we spoke with his bandmates Tonya and Cody. It was an insightful, vulnerable, and humorous conversation, and they had nothing but praise for Jon. This week, in support of them as they navigate the grief of their loss, we're reposting our interview with Lydia's Castle. Give them a listen. Give them some love. This one's for Jon.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E212 Concert Catch-Up: Des Rocs, Dead Poet Society, Finch, Winona Fighter, Trophy Eyes, Rarity, and more!

Tue, 14 May 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to catch up on concerts! It's show season, and we've been out and about experiencing live music from Itch guests, favorites, and new discoveries. KC had a special experience seeing Des Rocs with Jigsaw Youth. KC and Dan caught up with Dead Poet Society and were formally introduced to the nu metal insanity that is Silly Goose. And Aaron saw his new ride-for band Rarity with Trophy Eyes and House & Home, and made a last-minute decision to see Finch and our pals Winona Fighter, despite having no real knowledge of Armor for Sleep or headliner Bayside. We were all over the place, both figuratively and literally, and we had a great time. We hope you do too with this episode. Enjoy.

As noted at the top of this episode, a link to Bird's GoFundMe. And a positive update on her.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E211 A(nother) Conversation with Taylor Carroll and Arejay Hale of KemikalFire

Tue, 07 May 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to catch fire! Taylor Carroll and Arejay Hale of KemikalFire are back for another great, coffee-and-fragrance-fueled time. We discuss transitioning from being exclusively behind the kit in their other bands (Lit and Halestorm, respectively) to acting as co-frontmen, getting more nervous playing in front of 200 people than 20,000, and words of wisdom from Hoobastank. Plus, family cameos, pranks gone wrong, and a brilliant plan involving... What About Bob? We cover so much that we nearly forget to mention their ferocious new single, "The Drop". You're gonna love this one. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E210 The Itch Interview Wishlist

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to dream big! We're sharing our personal interview wishlists with the world, because once it's out there, there's an expectation? Maybe? Plus, we put the call out for who YOU want to hear us talk with, and we've got some excellent responses to share! Join us for laughs and a glimpse into the possible future of The Itch. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E209 The Itch On Tour: Set It Off, Crown the Empire, & Caskets + SAUL, Kingdom Collapse, & Hang Your Hate

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to see shows by friends old and new! We got to see Itch guests Caskets on their tour with Set It Off and Crown the Empire, as well as repeat Itch guests SAUL headlining with Kingdom Collapse and Hang Your Hate. Join us for a discussion about the pros and cons of drinking too much before (and after) a show and the benefits of having credibility with past guests. Plus, Dan catches a beatdown from a band, and an all-time great episode outro botch! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E208 A Conversation with Jake Crawford and Luke Caley of Unpeople

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 15:40:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for riffs! And boy do our guests have them in spades! Jake Crawford and Luke Caley of Unpeople (and formerly of Press to MECO) join us for a delightful chat that covers the disbandment of their old band, the formation of their new one, the ingredients that make them so dynamic, and a whole bunch of pure music nerdery... which is the best kind of nerdery. The Unpeople EP comes out Friday, April 19. We've been riding for it for weeks, and we're so excited for the world to discover this incredible new act.

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E207 New Rock Roundup: Dead Poet Society, Blind Channel, & Kid Kapichi

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for albums! We're filling you in on three of our favorite records from the first quarter of 2024: Dead Poet Society's "FISSION," Blind Channel's "Exit Emotions," and Kid Kapichi's "There Goes the Neighborhood." Enjoy, as Dead Poet Society completes the trifecta of having an album review episode, a live review episode, and an interview episode!

(For those keeping score, Blind Channel now has two album review episodes and an interview episode, while Kid Kapichi now has two album review episodes... sort of. Hopefully we'll see them both live this year!)

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E206 A Conversation with Casandra Carson of Paralandra

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to hang with a MO bro! Or sis, to be accurate. Casandra Carson, frontwoman of Springfield, Missouri's Paralandra, joins us for an energized chat about her band's new album The Body Electric. Along the way we'll discuss the story behind "Love of My Life", Casandra's gift to her boyfriend, the fun they had making the music video for "Dirty Love", the time they were almost late to a show in The Itch's backyard, and what it's like to be in a band with your own dad. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E205 A(nother) Conversation with Keith Wallen of Breaking Benjamin

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to run it back! Keith Wallen becomes a repeat guest, joining us to talk about his upcoming album Infinity Now and our collective Shiprocked experience. We'll discuss gratitude, loss, how Keith challenges himself as solo artist outside of Breaking Benjamin, and a surprising journey that inspired one of his new tracks. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear some of the best new tracks in rock, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E204 Booking Shiprocked + The Itch On Tour: Beartooth, The Plot In You, Invent Animate, & Sleep Theory

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to lie to you (but just a little)! We've got a smidge more Shiprocked-related business to take care of in the form of booking the 2025 lineup. (Alan, if you're listening...) Plus, Dan saw a show featuring two acts from Shiprocked 2024 in Beartooth and episode 180 guests Sleep Theory, as well as two bands he was less familiar with in The Plot In You and Invent Animate. What was the verdict? And what cardinal rule of Itch Etiquette was broken at the show? Listen, find out, and enjoy.

And don't forget: Voting is open for The Itch's March Bandness 2024 Final Four! bit.ly/2024mb4

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E203 March Bandness Announcement + The Itch On Tour: Mammoth WVH and Nita Strauss

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a tradition! March Bandness returns, and we've got an 8-artist field vying for the prize of their very own dedicated Itch episode! Visit the polls below to vote on the first round, and check back later, as the link will stay updated with each current round. Plus, one artist gets a bonus preview, as KC and Dan saw and show recently! Enjoy.

March Bandness 2024 is over, but listen and follow us on the socials to find out who won!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E202 20 Years, 202 Episodes, and More Shiprocked

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for ... more culmination? Not content to summarize Shiprocked in one episode, we're back with part two of our recap. And we sandwiched an interview in between! Shiprocked 2024 was something we'll never forget, and after this episode, you might not either. Thank you for whatever part of this journey you've been a part of. Let's keep sailing the seas (of cheese?) together.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E201 Shiprocked: The Artist Experience with Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for an intermission! When we last left our heroes, The Itch was at halfway through recapping our Shiprocked adventure. Eva Under Fire had an adventure of their own at this point in the story, so this week vocalist and part-time Itch co-host Eva Marie joins us to discuss Shiprocked from the artists' perspective. We'll hear tales of soundchecks gone awry, wholesome singalongs, and staying ready so you don't have to get ready. Plus, Eva discusses her new collaboration with Lyell and Hyro the Hero, and The Itch discovers the real princess in Eva Under Fire... Hint: It's not her.

We'll be back next week to (maybe) wrap up this year's Shiprocked coverage. In the meantime, if you're in the Detroit area on March 1st, Eva Under Fire and The Itch would love to see you at the premiere of Eva's film, My Rockstar, at The Crofoot. If you or someone you loved have experienced the pain of addiction, this night is for you to feel seen and loved.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E200 20 Years, 200 Episodes, and Shiprocked

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a culmination! After 20 years as a radio show and 200 episodes of a podcast, The Itch finally celebrated in the most fitting way possible: by spending a week stuck on a boat with about 30 bands, including about 10 we've had as guests! Shiprocked 2024 is in the books, and it was the perfect storm... literally. Join us for tales of endless concerts, friendships old and new, and what makes a festival on a boat the best kind of festival. Plus: The Itch crashes Jamaica... literally. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Shiprocked Replay: A Conversation with Sam Bam Koltun

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 09:45:00 -0000

While The Itch is on vacation, we're sharing past interviews with our current Shiprocked sea mates. Next up is Episode 130: A Conversation with Sam Bam Koltun of Dorothy, Faster Pussycat, & Budderside, originally published December 6, 2022. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Shiprocked Replay: A Conversation with Dorothy

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:45:00 -0000

While The Itch is on vacation, we're sharing past interviews with our current Shiprocked sea mates. Next up is Episode 126: A Conversation with Dorothy, originally published November 15, 2022. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Shiprocked Replay: A Conversation with Matt James of Blacktop Mojo

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 09:45:00 -0000

While The Itch is on vacation, we're sharing past interviews with our current Shiprocked sea mates. Next up is Episode 86: A Conversation with Matt James of Blacktop Mojo, originally published February 8, 2022. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Shiprocked Replay: A Conversation with Maty Madiro of From Ashes to New

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 09:45:00 -0000

While The Itch is on vacation, we're sharing past interviews with our current Shiprocked sea mates. First up is Episode 46: A Conversation with Maty Madiro of From Ashes to New, originally published March 29, 2021. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] I'M ON A BOAT!

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're ON A BOAT! But we're leaving you with some oldies-but-goodies while you're at Kinko's straight flippin' copies.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E199 A Conversation with Jack Underkofler of Dead Poet Society

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for science! Jack Underkofler of Dead Poet Society joins us to talk about his band's new album, and our first favorite album of 2024: FISSION. Jack goes in depth on the process of keeping the band's music genuine while also having the eyes and ears of a label and fans on them, going to embarrassing places in his lyric writing, their friendship with Badflower, and his fandom of Myles Kennedy. Plus, he introduces The Itch to new artists! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E198 A Conversation with AJ Channer of Fire From the Gods

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for positive energy! And our guest, AJ Channer of Fire From the Gods, brings it in spades! Join us as we geek out about guest spots, being a girl dad, and the band's latest single, "Thousand Lifetimes," featuring the legendary Corey Glover of Living Colour! Plus, AJ goes in depth about the inspiring message behind the band's 2022 album Soul Revolution. Enjoy. And check out AJ's label, Audio Pariah Entertainment!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E197 A Conversation with Fury in Few

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a new (old) series! The Shiprocked Series returns in anticipation of this year's event, and first abord are Brayden and Ryan of Fury in Few! These guys blew us away a few months back during Metallica's St. Louis Takeover Weekend, so we had to have them on. Join us for a fun discussion about show intros, playing in front of James Hetfield, not wasting music, and... playing at Starbucks? Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E196 The Itch Awards and Top 20 Albums of 2023

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for excellence! The 2023 Itch Awards are here and, as always, they're accompanied by our collective countdown of the top 20 albums of the year. If your music queue needs refillin', we'll discuss enough albums to keep you busy for the first fiscal quarter of 2024! Join us for LPs, EPs, honorable mentions, and our choices for Debut, Breakthrough, and Comeback artists of 2023. Plus, a look into the future at some exciting new music on the horizon! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E195 New Year's Eva!

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to end the year in style! Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire joins us to continue a holiday tradition, and the camaraderie is palpable! She's got stories of her soon-to-debut biopic, contraband merch, the Upheaval hill, and embarrassing herself in front of Gavin Rossdale and Bush! Plus, reflections on our time as friends/co-cheerleaders, and how she embraces imperfection and finds inspiration in a life that feels chaotic. Have a wonderful 2024, and happy New Year's Eva!

Also, our friend AJ Gardner was kind enough to provide this week's episode art. Check out AJ's awesome concert photography here!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E194 The Itch On Tour: Nonpoint, hed PE, Sumo Cyco, & VRSTY

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for déjà vu! We took a road trip to see a Nonpoint tour featuring multiple past episode guests. Sound familiar? If so, kudos! And thanks for knowing your Itch history. Join us for a recap of our adventure seeing Nonpoint with hed PE, Sumo Cyco, and VRSTY at Chicago's Bottom Lounge. We've got tales of proper mosh pit etiquette, powering through illness on stage, and how to put milk in the bottle. Plus, The Itch finally meets a longtime friend in person! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] The 12 Pods of Christmas

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a tradITCHion! Oh yes, we said it. This year's 12 Pods of Christmas is a chance for us to reflect on the fun we've had in 2023, and to thank you for being part of it. We hope you enjoy this holiday Short Cut.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E193 Concert Catch-Up: The Urge, Black Stone Cherry, Soul Blind, Faster Pussycat, and more!

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to satisfy an urge! St Louis' heroes The Urge reunited once again for a holiday show alongside our guys in Tree One Four and the fellas from Wisemary, and we were there to see it. Plus, KC sees another local boy made good, episode 130 guest Sam Bam Koltun and Faster Pussycat, the guys check out Black Stone Cherry, episode 138 guestGiovannie and the Hired Guns, and Jigsaw Youth, and Aaron debated about seeing Soul Blind and Webbed Wing, but is pretty content with his decision. Join us for a full slate of shows, and enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E192 A Conversation with Calva Louise

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to travel the world! Well, vicariously, through our guests Calva Louise. Jess, Alizon, and Ben are based out of Manchester, but are originally from Venezuela, France, and New Zealand, respectively. And while they're definitely a band, they're also an all-purpose DIY art project, having created a graphic novel and their own videos for nearly all of their songs. Plus, they're slight viral sensations on account of Jess's sick homemade sliding keyboard! Their new mixtape, Over The Threshold, just came out, and it's fantastic. Join us for the triumphant return of Itch International!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E191 A(nother) Conversation with Phil and Stephen of Taproot

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to start a club! Taproot joins fellow Michiganders Eva Under Fire as the only bands with two Itch interviews in the same calendar year! Phil and Stephen join us to discuss the band's new album SC\SSORS and the shows they've been doing in support. Along the way, we get some fun insight on recording their single "Favourite Song" with Elias of Nonpoint, and we learn why musicians have to be careful about quitting their day jobs, even if they have a backup plan that would rock the greeting card industry. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E190 Clipisode: Leftovers IV

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a Thanksgiving tradition! In honor of our gratitude to our incredible guests and listeners, we've compiled a collection of previously unheard clips from our 2023 interviews. We hope you enjoy this extra insight into artists and the industry. If you listen closely, you'll find hints of two future interviews as an early Christmas gift.

Featured in this episode: Giovannie and the Hired Guns, Fame on Fire, Ayron Jones, Nonpoint, Islander, The Exies, KemikalFire, Taproot, Grandson, Buckcherry, In Our Wake, SAUL, 311, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Caskets, Sleep Theory, Winona Fighter, Joe Bonamassa, VRSTY, and Calva Louise.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E189 The Weird Al Rock Mixtape with Lauren and Russ

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to give thanks... specifically, for Weird Al and good pals! Our friends Lauren from the Beer'd Al Podcast and Russ from Infectious Groove Music join us to compile an Itch-style mixtape of our favorite rock(ish) tracks from one of the world's most beloved musicians, the amazing Weird Al Yankovic! Join us for stories of Star Wars, the merits of ska (or lackthereof?), and how nailing the tone can make or break a parody. This is a fun one. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E188 The Itch On Tour: Les Claypool + Joe Bonamassa

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to see more legends! Elite-level bassist Les Claypool (with his Fearless Flying Frog Brigade) and guitarist Joe Bonamassa came through St. Louis, and The Itch was there to see them... in one case, up close and very personal! Join us for tales of military marches, wholesome father-son bonding time, and one of the most perfect song titles of all time. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E187 The Itch On Tour: Metallica Takes Over St. Louis

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to talk about a ton of Metallica! The biggest metal band in the world came to St. Louis for a pair of packed house, no-repeat sets alongside Mammoth WVH, Pantera, Ice Nine Kills, and Five Finger Death Punch. And on their day off, the next generation took over, with Bastardane and Fury in Few tearing down a smaller house of their own. Join us for tales of traffic jams, parallel setlist structures, and a band that came out of nowhere to be the unlikely hero of the entire weekend. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E186 The Itch On Tour: Taproot, Eva Under Fire, & Heartsick... in Michigan!

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to talk about MORE shows! And this was a big one! For the second time this year, we hit the road to see a lineup full of Itch guests. Taproot's release shows for their new album SC\SSORS (as discussed in episode 152) have been hits, and they capped off a 3-night run of sold out shows at The Machine Shop in Flint by inviting our friends Eva Under Fire and Heartsick to share the stage. It was a blast, and we're here to tell you all about it. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E185 Concert Catch-Up: 311, The Hu, Sleep Token, Chevelle, and more!

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to catch up! We've seen a lot of concerts over the past few months, and we finally had a chance to talk about them! And this one's got something for everybody. Three Days Grace, Chevelle, Loathe, Sleep Token, Asking Alexandria, The Hu, Zero 9:36, 311, AWOLNATION, and Blame My Youth! Join us for tales of pandering frontmen, impressive openers, nonexistent language barriers, and a fire alarm that just would NOT synchronize with the music! Dan's birthday week was a doozy, and we're here to recap it all. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E184 A(nother) Conversation with Joey Varela of VRSTY

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to celebrate All Hallows Evarela! Our friend Joey Varela of VRSTY joins us for his second holiday-timed episode. Their new album Levitate is out now, and we dive into all the details, from single selection and bringing in features to dealing with a label and getting cussed out by the crowd. As always, Joey packs a ton of openness and insight into 30 minutes. Enjoy, and catch VRSTY on tour with Nonpoint, hed PE, and Sumo Cyco this December!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E183 The Itch On Tour: Riot Fest

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to Riot! For the first time ever, Aaron attended all three days of Chicago's Riot Fest, seeing 20 bands he'd never seen before and eating more than one delicious burrito. Join us for the rundown as he discusses first impressions, impressive veterans, and new crushes. Plus, Aaron is finally prepared to weigh in on Dan and KC's long-held conviction that The Used sucks live.

In this episode: Calva Louise, Pinkshift, The Bobby Lees, George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic, Code Orange, The Interrupters, The Breeders, Turnstile, Foo Fighters, Enter Shikari, Head Automatica, Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls, Death Cab for Cutie, Queens of the Stone Age, The Postal Service, Insane Clown Posse, AFI, Finch, The Used, The Cure

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E182 A Conversation with Joe Bonamassa

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get educated! Joe Bonamassa has more #1 Billboard Blues albums than anyone in history, and his time in the music world has taught him a ton about what it means to be an artist, a businessman, and a mentor to the next generation of musicians. Joe was kind enough to share some of his insight with us in a discussion about his new release, Blues Deluxe Vol. 2, the changing state of the music industry, and how to give back when you've been given so much. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E181 A Conversation with Coco of Winona Fighter

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get stressed out. But only a little, because Coco from Winona Fighter, aka our "social media bestie," joins us for a wholesome conversation about meeting your heroes, live show theatrics, and taking your art seriously without taking yourself seriously. Along the way, The Itch learns some new lingo (but absolutely nothing about Coco's upcoming releases), Shiprocked comes up again, and Aaron calls a guest a "turd" for the first time.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E180 A Conversation with Cullen Moore and Paolo Vergara of Sleep Theory

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get inked up! Or at least talk with a guy who just did. Cullen Moore and Paolo Vergara of Sleep Theory join us to discuss the insane and accelerated ride that has been their 2023, starting with a debut single in January that got half a million TikTok views and leading to September's release of their first EP, Paper Hearts. Along the way we'll talk about their love for Linkin Park, the double edged sword of internet virality, and how the best opportunities aren't always planned. PLUS, the tables get turned, and The Itch is forced to prove that we indeed do our homework.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E179 The Itch On Tour: Red & SAUL + Local H

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to double up on shows AND episodes! Following our recent interview with SAUL, we had to see the boys live on their tour with Red. And Aaron never passes up a chance to talk about Local H, so we're talking about that too! Enjoy a pair of concert adventures that include a train station, a next-door neighbor, and way too much smoke!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E178 A Conversation with Benji Wilson and James Lazenby of Caskets

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a jolly good show! Benji and James of Caskets join us for a truly delightful chat. The lads from Leeds discuss their new album, Reflections, favorite cities from their second US tour, and the key to success on a human level in an industry that can be cutthroat.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E177 The Itch On Tour: The New Pornographers

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to expand our musical horizons! Aaron saw indie rock royalty The New Pornographers at Thalia Hall in Chicago all the way back in May, and we've been sitting on the recording for months waiting for the right time to share it. But now, as we continue our recent streak of dropping two episodes a week, it's time to reveal the long-lost final Itch event of KC's birthday week! The New P's are an evergreen band, and we think this is an evergreen episode. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E176 A Conversation with Kenny Wayne Shepherd

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a double episode! Legendary blues rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd joins us to talk about his new album, Dirt on My Diamonds, re-recording his breakthrough Trouble Is..., cover songs (including Five Finger Death Punch!), and adding polarizing sounds to his musical toolbox. Then, KC and Dan recount their experience seeing Kenny alongside King Solomon Hicks this past summer at The Factory! With a guest this big, we had to go king-size!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E175 The Itch's Labor Day Extravaganza Concert Fiestival

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to see four shows at four venues in two days! That's right, The Itch has been so busy that it's another double episode week. Join us for a recap of seeing Fame on Fire and Kingdom Collapse (at the Old Rock House), Corey Taylor, Wargasm UK, and Itch favorites Oxymorrons (at The Factory), Memphis May Fire, Catch Your Breath, and Another Day Dawns (at Red Flag), and Shinedown, Papa Roach, and Spiritbox (at Riverport)! Holy cow was that a lot of links! This adventure includes a birthday celebration (though not ours), a lesson in how not to repeat the same mistakes, and evidence suggesting that hot dogs can solve many problems. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E174 The Itch On Tour: Eve 6 (Plays Aaron's Birthday)

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a birthday celebration! Aaron may not have had KC and Dan with him for his big day, but he had Eve 6, and that was enough for a great evening! Join us for tales of ancient automobiles, Yiddish lessons, and a hot tip on bagels as Aaron celebrates a milestone, Dan keeps his lips sealed about prom night, and KC continues his heelish behavior! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E173 The Itch On Tour: Dashboard Confessional & Des Rocs

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching the Itch for free beer... and a bonus episode! We've seen so many fun shows lately that, if we publish just one episode per week, we'll perpetually be months behind. So until we're caught up, that means extra episodes for you! In this one, KC recounts his recent experience at a Bud Light-sponsored "pop up" show featuring Dashboard Confessional and Itch favorite Des Rocs. Join us for sordid tales of the VIP experience, our first truly emo-adjacent episode, and... Meet the Fockers? Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E172 A Conversation with Chad Sexton of 311

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching not just an Itch, but an artist off our wish list! Chad Sexton of 311 joins us to discuss the 30th anniversary re-issue of his band's debut album Music, the fine art of creating a setlist, and what keeps five people together in a band for over three decades (hint: it might be bacon). Plus, Chad takes us on a trip down memory lane with stories from a few album eras, Aaron doesn't get to talk about drum art, and this clip proves why Chad rules. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E171 The Itch On Tour: Secrets, Outline in Color, VRSTY, & Nerv

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch ... for crime? Dan and KC visited the Red Flag to see the Collapse Tour, featuring Secrets, Outline in Color, Nerv, and our friend Joey Varela and VRSTY, whom the guys may or may not have inadvertently kidnapped. Join us for a fun talk about tour camaraderie, on-stage swagger, and the search for Subway. Plus, a shout out to St. Louis' own Discrepancies, and the long-awaited debut of The Itch Box.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E170 The Itch On Tour: grandson & K.Flay

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 13:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for family fun! In episode 154, Dan introduced his son Dean to our guest grandson. Not long after, Dan and his family got to see grandson at The Factory on his I Love You, I'm Trying tour with K.Flay (whose new album Mono drops in September). A fun (and sometimes sleepy) time was had by all! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E169 The Itch On Tour: Bloodywood, Vended, & Wargasm

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to catch up on the back catalog! Months ago, The Itch saw a series of very memorable shows. But once we started the Upheaval interviews, those episodes got put on the back burner. Now we're bringing you some overdue coverage of some headbangin' shows. First up, our experience seeing Indian folk metal band Bloodywood alongside Vended and Wargasm at Pops! If you haven't felt the energy of a band like Bloodywood, well... it's because there aren't many acts like them. And, unfortunately for Aaron, there won't be another chance to catch them in the US for a while. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E168 A Conversation with Blake and Zach Bedsaul of SAUL

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a throwback! Blake Bedsaul was our third guest, back in episode 44. Now he's back for our 50th interview, and he brought his brother Zach along for the ride! The Bedsaul brothers and their band, SAUL, have just released their second full-length album, This Is It... The End of Everything, and they're here to talk about the evolution of their sound, processing the loss of their mother, and their love for Tool. It's a pleasure to speak with guys who just love music the way we do. We hope you enjoy it.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E167 The Itch Upheaval: In Our Wake

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the Uprising... one more time! Detroit's In Our Wake joins us to close out the series by sharing the Upheaval experience from the artist's perspective. Join us to hear tales of what it's like to be independent, what to do when a pandemic depletes your band, and why Michiganders are such sweethearts. Plus: The Itch welcomes its youngest guest. And a record is broken, as well as some knees.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

The Itch Upheaval theme, "Blow", is used with permission from the amazing Eva Under Fire and Better Noise Music. All other content is copyright of The Itch. All rights reserved, including the right to rock on.f you like what you hear, you can hear more of us every Sunday night broadcasting rock to the masses from 6-9pm CST on KCLC-FM. If you're not in the St. Louis area, you can stream the show from 891thewood.com, TuneIn, Radio.net, and OnlineRadioBox!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E166 The Itch Upheaval: Festival Recap

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 08:45:00 -0000

The Uprising has welcomed us! Upheaval is in the books, and we made it out alive, but not unscathed! Join us (and a very special guest) to recap our two days in Grand Rapids. Who we saw, who we didn't, and what made this such a memorable experience from start to finish. It's a long one, but we promise the ride is worth it.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E165 The Itch Upheaval: Interview Extras

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the uprising! While we get some much-needed rest after a wild weekend at Upheaval, we found some fun snippets from our interview series to tide you over until our recap. You’ll hear the crazy story of why Alfonso from Heartsick missed our initial interview attempt, get some insight into the busy lives of the Oxymorrons as they prepare to release their debut album, catch a preview of a future conversation topic with Eva Under Fire, and take a peek behind the scenes as Black Note Graffiti records a Hall of Fame worthy liner. Plus, we’ve got further proof that Chris Meyer of MiEntertainment is a super nice guy, and we make sure not to botch Rebecca Potzner’s last name. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E164 The Itch Upheaval: Rebecca Potzner of Banded PR

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the uprising! Rebecca Potzner of Banded PR joins us in this episode to discuss her journey into the world of music publicity and the role(s) she plays on the Upheaval team. Rebecca is the person responsible for giving us the green light to partner with Upheaval on this series, so we had to give her the final pre-fest spotlight. But stay tuned, because we've got more to come in the Upheaval aftermath!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E163 The Itch Upheaval: Chris Meyer of MiEntertainment

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the uprising! MiEntertainment's Chris Meyer, one of the creators of Upheaval, joins us to discuss the complicated work of concert promotion, being a family business, and even a few wish list artists for next year's Upheaval! We hope you enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at a part of the music business that means so much to us.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E162 The Itch Upheaval: Ricardo Ortiz and Gabby Bryant of Black Note Graffiti

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the uprising! Ricardo Ortiz and Gabby Bryant of Ann Arbor-based Upheaval openers Black Note Graffiti join us in this episode. They discuss road testing new music, their love for a certain festival headliner, the dynamic of changing from predominantly male lead vocals to predominantly female, and a pair of strong words for a home state artist!

Plus, Aaron reveals his headphone sonic test album, and Dan has a message for a billionaire!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E161 The Itch Upheaval: Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the uprising! The Itch's most frequent guest Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire ups her tally to five as she joins us to talk about her Michigan band's Upheaval debut! If you're interested in Halestorm and Evanescence fandom, Detroit radio, and the perks of having a supportive mother, Eva's got you covered. And we heavily recommend checking out Eva Under Fire's debut album Love, Drugs, & Misery. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E160 The Itch Upheaval: Oxymorrons

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the uprising! All four of 2022 Upheaval performers and notably pretty punk boy band Oxymorrons join us this week for our second conversation. Our first interview, in January 2022, was somehow one of the funniest and deepest chats we've ever had, and this doesn't disappoint as a follow-up. As they prepare to release their first full LP, Melanin Punk, they've got plenty to say about the creative process, keeping fans' expectations changing, and how to be unapologetically authentic in all spaces. If you're looking for band that's making big moves and knows the literal ups and downs of the Upheaval experience, these are your guys. Check out their new single "Graveyard Words" here, and enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E159 The Itch Upheaval: Alfonso Civile of Heartsick

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Welcome to the uprising! Alfonso Civile of Heartsick kicks off our series as a subject matter expert on all things Michigan, including Upheaval. The Lansing-based band has been a mainstay in the regional heavy music scene for years, and, as you'll hear from his stories, Alfonso has a knack for rubbing elbows with the biggest stars in rock while maintaining a humble heart for small-town musicians who just want to make noise with their friends. If you're looking for an introduction to Upheaval, and the festival creation process in general, start right here. And enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Introducing... The Itch Upheaval!

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:45:00 -0000

The Itch is here with a special guest and some big news! We've got summer plans that you won't wanna miss!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E158 The Itch On Tour: Pointfest

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a festival! St. Louis' summer rock kickoff Pointfest happened, and we were there in full force to experience it all. Join us for an all-day concert experience that included Tigercub, Des Rocs, Band-Maid, Badflower, Bad Omens, The Pretty Reckless, Coheed & Cambria, and Incubus! You might be surprised at who made great impressions... and who didn't? Enjoy.

On, and for those who enjoy a teaser: We're about to scratch that Itch again.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E157 A Conversation with Josh Todd of Buckcherry

Tue, 30 May 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for some straight up rock 'n' roll, man! Buckcherry's new album Vol. 10 drops Friday, June 2, and in this episode frontman Josh Todd joins us to talk classic rock, tattoos, the creative process, and how a band stays committed all the way to ten albums. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E156 The Itch On Tour: hed PE, Guerrilla Theory, Midwest Avengers, & Tree One Four

Tue, 23 May 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for some G-Punk! Longtime faves hed PE came to the Red Flag and were joined by a trio of like-minded area acts looking to make the city proud! Join us as we experience a night of hip hop/reggae-inspired rock with Guerrilla Theory, Midwest Avengers, and Tree One Four.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] A Little Social Media Milestone

Sat, 20 May 2023 08:45:00 -0000

During tonight's recording, The Itch crossed a fun social media milestone. So, being the excitable and easily pleased fellas we are... we had to talk about it for a minute. Enjoy, and congrats to Winona Fighter on the seamless segue from last week's episode into Itch history!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E155 The Itch On Tour: KemikalFire & Winona Fighter

Tue, 16 May 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch give in to peer pressure! Taylor Carroll of KemikalFire encouraged us to come to their show in Nashville (their second show ever), and we just couldn't resist the man's charm. So we packed up Dan's van and made the trek to The Basement East for what would be one of our most memorable concert experiences yet. Random rock star sightings. Hot chicken. A killer opening act (whatup, Winona Fighter?). And... hugs. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E154 A Conversation with grandson

Tue, 09 May 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching an Itch we've had for almost three years! The man known as grandson joins us on album's eve for his new release I Love You, I'm Trying. The record is a departure of sorts from his previous work, as he refocuses his attention from the problems in the world to the problems in his world. It's deeply personal, and when it comes to exploring issues like fame, mental health, and the relationship between an artist and their fans, he holds nothing back on the album nor in our conversation. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E153 Q1 Rock Roundup

Thu, 04 May 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a roundup! It's been ages since we've taken inventory of our favorite recent rock releases, and the backlog has grown unwieldy! So join us as we explore 2023 albums from Gorillaz, Godsmack, You Me at Six, Motive Black, Redlight King, Otherwise, Pop Evil, DeadBlondeStars, OTTTO, and more!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] KC's Connection to Rush

Tue, 02 May 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This is a big week for The Itch, and as we prep for what's to come, we're still finishing up this week's episode. It's also KC's birthday week, so in honor of our billboard brother, we dug up a clip from way back in our episode 37 recording on the great Neil Peart of Rush. It features a cool bit of trivia about KC, as well as our episode guest and longtime friend Rich Lamberty! Enjoy, and expect your next full episode later this week.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E152 A Conversation with Phil, Stephen, and Taylor of Taproot

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a major award! You voted for Taproot as our March Bandness winner, so we had Phil, Stephen, and Taylor from the band join us to discuss their new album, their new old album, and their fall tour. Along the way we'll hear about their decision to turn down a notable tour, a track that almost featured Layne Staley, selling skateboards, and how they maintain a connection with their fans.

As promised, relevant links: TaprootMerch.com The new single V\CT\M \ PLAY Podioslave's new conversation with Phil Podioslave's previous conversation with Phil

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] Can You Really Get Along with Durst?

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This one's from deep in the Itch Archives! This week's guests received an infamous ear chewing from Limp Bizkit years ago, so while we put the finishing touches on that episode, we've found a clip from all the way back in our episode 8 recording sessions (that's June 2020 for those keeping score), in which Dan recounts a publicity stunt gone wrong from The Bizkit's past. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: The actual facts of this story are readily accessible with minimal research. Dan was simply recounting rumors as he understood them at the time, as is his wont. Don't come after us, bros. And we actually do like you, Fred. Hop on the show anytime to debunk whatever your heart desires.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E151 Record Store Day Draft Special

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to scratch a record! RSD 2023 is coming up, and we're each drafting our top 3 releases from this year's batch! Plus, we've got a rundown of some massive music drops from the past couple of weeks, an update on our interview with KemikalFire, and the (podcast) revelation of this year's March Bandness winner! It's a fun one. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E150 A Conversation with Arejay Hale and Taylor Carroll of KemikalFire

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching some names off our interview wish list for episode 150! Arejay Hale is best known as the drummer half of the brother/sister duo behind Halestorm, alongside his sister Lzzy. Taylor Carroll is best known as the drummer for Lit. Together, these dearest brothers are preparing to debut the first music under their new moniker KemikalFire. Their first single, "Dead and Gone," premieres Friday, April 14th. In preparation, the guys joined us to discuss the making of the single, their love for previous Itch guests Scott Stevens and Kevin Baldes, and PLUS, Taylor takes "supportive boyfriend" to a new level, and Arejay's alter ego Dr. Magnifiscent stops by to give The Itch tips on staying smelly!

And if that wasn't enough, stick around for a cameo from an important and oft-mentioned member of The Itch team!

UPDATE: Since this episode's release, KemikalFire's debut song (and video) "Dead and Gone" has been released, and it does not disappoint! Plus, their second ever live performance is May 3rd at The Basement East in Nashville! And The Itch just might be there...

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E149 The Soundtracks of 1998 with Brian Colburn and Gomez

Sat, 08 Apr 2023 08:45:00 -0000

Happy Rex Manning Day! This week, we're scratching The Itch for a pseudo-tradITCHion: our yearly movie/music maship episode! And because we never forget a promise (probably), we've invited last year's intended guests, podcasting friends Brian Colburn and Gomez, to join us as we discuss the soundtracks of 1998! We may or may not have seen the films, but we love the music either way!

Check out Brian's show, My Weekly Mixtape, and Gomez's show, The Sleevie G Show!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] Did Aaron Rob P.O.D.?

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 08:45:00 -0000

After a tour bus played a prominent role in last week's episode, we thought we'd tide you over with a short story about Aaron's first adventure on a tour bus while we finish editing this week's episode. Enjoy, and if you have a story about being on a tour bus that we should share, send it our way!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E148 The Itch On Tour: Nonpoint, Blacktop Mojo, & Sumo Cyco

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a road trip! The whole gang headed to Kansas to see, for the first time ever, a tour full of bands we've had on the show! Join us at The Bottleneck in Lawrence for the most apropos stop on the Wizard of Oz–themed Emerald Cities Tour, featuring Nonpoint, Blacktop Mojo, and Sumo Cyco! This one was a blast, and we were only sad that we had to tap our heels home. Enjoy.

And when you're done, go back and enjoy our previous coverage of Nonpoint, Blacktop Mojo, and Sumo Cyco too!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] The Grodiest Dive Bar in Lawrence

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 08:45:00 -0000

The Itch needs a bit more time to finish our Emerald Cities episode, so as a preview, we're giving you... the epilogue? Sometimes we make strange choices.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

March Bandness 2023 Tournament Announcement!

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 16:40:00 -0000

It's time for March Bandness 2023! Every year The Itch presents a field of artists for you, the music fan, to vote for, and the winner will be the subject of an upcoming episode of The Itch Rock Podcast! Past winners Nonpoint and Cam Cole became Itch favorites and guests, and we're hyped to find out who you choose as this year's winner! Vote now at twitter.com/itchrocks!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E147 The Itch On Tour: Badflower, Des Rocs, & Blood Red Shoes

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching the Itch to tread familiar territory! We saw Badflower and past Itch guest Des Rocs at Red Flag, which may as well be the official venue of The Itch. Though we've discussed the artists and the venue before, we've learned that every experience is unique, and this one was definitely worth discussing! We hope you enjoy. And apologies to Blood Red Shoes, for reasons you'll learn within the episode.

If you're interested in our past coverage of Badflower and Des Rocs, enjoy these episodes as well: E123 The Itch On Tour: AWOLNATION, Badflower, The Mysterines, & Hyro the Hero [Short Cuts] The Big Badflower Theory E70The Itch On Tour: Badflower, Teenage Wrist, & Dead Poet Society E68 The Itch On Tour: Pointfest & Riot Fest E111 The Itch On Tour: Des Rocs (featuring Filthy Animals Heidi and Kai!) E110 A Conversation with Des Rocs E78 Fall Rock Roundup: Blacktop Mojo, Ded, & Des Rocs

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E146 The Itch On Tour: Bush + Giovannie and the Hired Guns

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to hit the road again! Rock stalwarts Bush and rising Itch favorites Giovannie and the Hired Guns came through town separately, and we were there to see them! Join us for discussion about learning lessons in poor venue ventilation, a very unique use of the St Louis Cardinals logo, and how The Itch might soon end up in jail.

As a bonus, a few videos of Giovannie's show at Off Broadway can be found at this link!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E145 A Conversation with Scott Stevens of The Exies and 4 Horsemen Music

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get apocalyptic! Scott Stevens of 4 Horsemen music joins us to discuss writing with some of the biggest artists in modern rock, as well as the return of his band The Exies! We'll dive deep into the creation of "Spirits High", the first Exies song in over 15 years, and hear stories about Scott's work with Halestorm, Shinedown, Dorothy, Ayron Jones, Nothing More, and many more! Plus, we'll pose and presume to answer an all-important question: will Scott be involved with his third consecutive Itch Album of the Year?

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E144 The Itch On Tour: White Reaper, Narrow Head, & Taipei Houston

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get back to live shows! After a successful Shiprocked Series, we're going On Tour again with a discussion of our experience seeing White Reaper, Narrow Head, and Taipei Houston live at Delmar Hall. We'll also give some quick thoughts on the new albums from White Reaper and Narrow Head, and dive into the importance of energy in a live show. Plus: Dan learns what "shoegaze" means. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E143 A Conversation with Mikey Carvajal of Islander

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to finish what we started... maybe. Mikey Carvajal of Islander had a beautiful homecoming of sorts on Shiprocked, and he was kind enough to join us to share his story. We also dive into the origins of his face paint (but NOT the origins of "Coconut Dracula"), being asked to fill in for your musical hero, and what it's like to not be told that your label has dropped you... all while trying not to talk exclusively about wrestling! Mikey has so much insight on the ups and downs of the music industry, and the integrity to share his band's struggles without bitterness. This conversation went in directions we didn't expect, and we hope you enjoy it.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E142 A Conversation with Jason Zeilstra and Rasheed Thomas of Nonpoint

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 06:01:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to debut brand new music from a favorite! Nonpoint dropped their new single "Heartless", at literally the exact same time as this episode, and we spoke about it ahead of release with the band's guitar duo of Jason Zeilstra and Rasheed Thomas! Join us for an enlightening discussion about the new music, the corresponding Emerald Cities tour with Blacktop Mojo and Sumo Cyco, how Jason and Rasheed's 20-year friendship began, and of course... their experience on Shiprocked. Check out "Heartless", and we'll see you on tour!

As promised, the track was instantly added as the lead on our updated New Rock Roundup playlist! Follow it for 20 brand new songs every Friday!

For extra fun, check our our previous interviews with Nonpoint and the Emerald Cities Tour team! E124 A Conversation with Francesca Ludikar of 361 Degrees Records E116 A Conversation with Skye Sweetnam of Sumo Cyco E87 A Conversation with Jason Zeilstra of Nonpoint E86 A Conversation with Matt James of Blacktop Mojo [Short Cuts] Bands Talking Bands with Nonpoint E55 A Conversation with Robb & Jason of Nonpoint (Part 2) E54 A Conversation with Robb & Jason of Nonpoint (Part 1)

E141 Shiprocked Recap: The Captain's Log

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to bring it all full circle! Dan finally made it to Shiprocked, and he's got a heck of a lot to say about it! Join us as he recounts the Captain's Log of his experiences, including bands that surprised him, relationships he built, a corporately owned island, and what a certain lead singer does in his free time. Plus, a theory on why one guy brought a six-person security team on a cruise ship. It's a long trip, but we think you'll enjoy it.

Click here to see Dan's accompanying photo tour, including at least one picture he doesn't remember taking.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E140 A Conversation with Ayron Jones

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get #Filthy! Ayron Jones' Child of the State was our 2021 Album of the Year, and we've been... jonesin'... to have him on the show ever since. The conversation did not disappoint, as it included Ayron's foray into R&B with his new single "Otherside", the hottest hot spots in his hometown of Seattle, and a family that is incredibly near to his heart. And we definitely did NOT discuss geopolitics. Enjoy. And click here to help Desi.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E139 A Conversation with Bryan Kuznitz of Fame on Fire

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching an Itch that's, well... pretty fiery. The Shiprocked Series continues with Bryan Kuznitz, frontman of Fame on Fire. He's a charismatic and self-reflective guy who wears his emotions on his sleeve and shouts them in his songs. And as this publishes, he's probably talking Dan into buying him a drink on the boat. Join us to talk with Bryan about the formation of his band, their latest album Welcome to the Chaos, and singing in Korean on one of their myriad covers. Enjoy!

confessional lyrics and a Mexican influence. Giovannie joined us to discuss his roots, his writing style, and his eponymous Hired Guns. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E138 A Conversation with Giovannie Yanez of Giovannie and the Hired Guns

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a new series: a Shiprocked Series! We've been talking about it for ages, and it's finally here. As Dan prepares to dock, we're unleashing the first of a trio of interviews with artists who will be performing (and vacationing) on the boat. And we're starting with a guy who made an immediate impression on us last year: Giovannie Yanez of Giovannie and the Hired Guns. Their album Tejano Punk Boyz made Dan's top 20 and featured a fascinating fusion of 90s alt rock and country sounds, complete with confessional lyrics and a Mexican influence. Giovannie joined us to discuss his roots, his writing style, and his eponymous Hired Guns. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E137 The Itch Awards Part 2: Winners and Top 20 Albums of 2022

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for closure! You hear us talk about the Top 20 all year long, now it's time for the payoff! We're dropping this episode a day early because we want to get it to your ears (and to clear the table for our exciting next series!). Make your predictions and see how you do, then let us know how wrong our subjective opinions are! Plus, we've got the five Listener's Choice categories of the Itch Awards, voted on by YOU! Thank you so much to everyone who participated. And at least one of us was very happy with your selections. The 2022 Itch Awards finally conclude here. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E136 The Itch Awards Intermission: Memories and Honorees

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to drop 20 extra albums on you... the Almost Top 20! We've done the calculatin' and collaboratin' and chosen the The Itch's official Top 20 albums of 2022... but we also had some individual favorites that didn't make the collective cut. Plus, we take a quick look back at concert memories from the year, all of which can be heard in greater detail in our Itch On Tour episodes. If you're listening to this on Monday, Jan 8, today's your last chance to vote for the 5 listener's choice categories of The Itch Awards, so click the link below and let your voice be heard! And if you need a quick reminder about any of the artists/albums/songs, give a listen to our Itch Awards playlist as well! Enjoy, and thank you for your time and engagement.

VOTE: bit.ly/22itchawards

LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0eK1dIVP9m1kIZ23LtugBn

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E135 The Itch Awards Part 1: Nominees and Top EPs

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for awards season, and you have a say! In part 1, we're presenting a few categories of our own, a few for you to vote on, and our top 5 EPs of the year! Click the links below to help us determine 2022's Best Debut, Breakout Artist, Best Cover, Song of the Year, and the Most Anticipated Release of 2023. We've even created a playlist of the nominees in case you need a refresher! Enjoy!

VOTE: bit.ly/22itchawards

LISTEN: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0eK1dIVP9m1kIZ23LtugBn

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

Flavor of the Week: Kid Kapichi - Here's What You Could Have Won

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 09:45:00 -0000

As we put the finishing touches on The 2022 Itch Awards, we're tiding you over with a preview of an album that you'll soon hear more about. Taken from our live radio show on KCLC-FM, enjoy the first Flavor of 2023: Kid Kapichi!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E134 New Year's Evarela: A New Year's Conversation with Joey Varela of VRSTY

Sat, 31 Dec 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a New Year's celebration! Our friend Joey Varela of VRSTY joins us for the second time to discuss his recent and upcoming music, translating songs into Spanish, and the value of having true friends in the music industry. Enjoy, and happy 2023!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E133 Christmas Eva II: A Christmas Conversation with Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire

Sat, 24 Dec 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a holiday tradition! Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire joined us last year for an episode we dubbed Christmas Eva. And she was kind enough to join us again this year, which officially makes it annual! There are guests and there are friends in the podcast world, and as you'll quickly discover, Eva is squarely on the latter category. Join us for a free-flowing conversation about selling out their album release show, collaborating with the scorers of Stranger Things, and what's next for Eva Under Fire. Plus, The Itch is privy to what we'll call a "previously unreleased" song. Enjoy Christmas Eva II. And thank you for making us part of your Christmas tradition.

And hey, enjoy our Christmas playlist as well!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E132 The Itch On Tour: Daryl Hall & Todd Rundgren

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to visit Daryl's House! KC capped off our concert-going year with a couple of classics as he saw Daryl Hall and Todd Rundgren! Not only was it an enjoyable show by a performer who's still challenging himself into his 70s, but with the recent passing of Christine McVie on our minds, it was a wonderful reminder to see the greats when you can. They won't be around forever.

Plus, as promised, here's your Itch Christmas playlist. Happy holidays, and enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E131 The Itch On Tour: Rival Sons & Giovannie and the Hired Guns

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get into the holiday spirit! But we may be a couple of holidays behind. After being put on the back burner for our connected "Morothy" series (episodes 126-130), we're finally catching up with some wild concert experiences seeing Rival Sons' back-to-back shows in St Louis and Chicago in late October. Along the way, Dan is always aware of the exits, Aaron barely passes for 21, and KC has a scary experience that has nothing to do with Halloween. Enjoy. And bonus points if you catch the Boondocks reference.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E130 A Conversation with Sam Bam Koltun of Dorothy, Faster Pussycat, & Budderside

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to talk with a triple threat! Sam Bam Koltun LOVES playing guitar. So much so that the man is part of no less than three bands, while still finding time for more gigs on the side! Join us for a great chat about his work with Dorothy, Faster Pussycat, and Budderside (all of whom have released new music in 2022), playing with a busted finger, and his true feelings about a St Louis pizza staple!

Shout out to Ari Strauss for the fantastic photo we used in this week's episode art.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E129 A Conversation with Keith Wallen of Breaking Benjamin

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to go solo! Keith Wallen is a member of Breaking Benjamin, but he's also a solo artist and sought-after collaborator. His debut solo album This World Or The Next came out last year, and he just got back from a UK tour playing it in support of his friends from the band Red. We were fortunate enough to catch up with him to talk about his album (including the making of the video for "Fractured"), his experience working with high-profile acts, and his impressive resume of co-writing credits. Plus, it's geekception as we geek out meeting a member of one of our all-time favorite bands as he talks about geeking out meeting a member of one of his!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E128 Clipisode: Leftovers III

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for gratitude! We've put together a collection of short bonus clips from each of our 2022 interviews as a way to reflect on all the fun we've had learning from and about people in the music world. And we're not even done with our interviews for the year! Stick around til the end to get a sneak peek of who's to come. Happy holidays, Itch listeners! We appreciate you so much, and we hope you enjoy this clipisode.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E127 The Itch On Tour: Dirty Honey, Dorothy, & Mac Saturn

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get dirty! Well, Dirty Honey at least. In the promised follow-up to last week's Dorothy interview, we're discussing our experience seeing the two aforementioned artists on tour at Red Flag with Mac Saturn. We sat on this recording for a minute, but it paid off. Join us for a chat about a great "KSHE rock" show, wherein Dan takes a stab at a Shirt Alert and Aaron keeps acting a pest!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E126 A Conversation with Dorothy

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a spiritual experience! Dorothy joins us to talk about her amazing new album Gifts From the Holy Ghost, battles of the soul, and learning a lesson about performance from a surprising source. It's a very unique conversation that goes in some unexpected directions.

Things mentioned in this interview: Black Sheep video Sweet Dreams video Matt Pinfield interview Going There with Dr. Mike interview

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E125 A Conversation with Myles and Layne Ulrich of Taipei Houston

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 09:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to explore a tennis legacy! And maybe a musical one as well. Myles and Layne Ulrich of Taipei Houston join us to talk about their debut album Once Bit Never Bored, as well as their experience playing alongside Muse, their philosophy on social media, and how to fill a room with sound as a two-man band.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] The Itch On Voting

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 09:45:00 -0000

Election day is almost here! Finally, a temporary break from vapid smear campaigns and scare tactics that demonize the opposition instead of presenting novel ideas for how to care for people! Ahem. What were we saying? Oh, right. Even though it seems obvious that the system is down, we believe one should fight with tools while working to create better ones. So we found this leftover clip from waaaay back in episode 27, when we discussed the relationship between rock and the American political system just before the 2020 election. Enjoy. And vote. If you're informed. By something other than cable news. Almost literally anything. OK bye.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E124 A Conversation with Francesca Ludikar of 361 Degrees Records

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a new interview series! Francesca Ludikar, Creative Director and co-founder of 361 Degrees Records alongside the band Nonpoint, joins us to explore the non-musical side of music as we explore The Itch On The Industry. Her skills behind the camera and beyond have played an essential role in Nonpoint's revitalization, as well as in the development of Sumo Cyco. Join us for a great talk about origins, assets, and how to direct a photo shoot without being in the same room. Enjoy.

And for some "preview" episodes that led up to Francesca's appearance on The Itch, check out the following: E84: A Conversation with Robb & Jason of Nonpoint (Part 1) E55: A Conversation with Robb & Jason of Nonpoint (Part 2) E86: A Conversation with Jason Zeilstra of Nonpoint E116: A Conversation with Skye Sweetnam of Sumo Cyco

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E123 The Itch On Tour: AWOLNATION, Badflower, The Mysterines, & Hyro the Hero

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a cameo! On a lineup that included AWOLNATION, Badflower, and The Mysterines, somehow it was the artist not on the bill who made The Itch's night! Who's that, you ask? We wouldn't spoil it, except that the title already did. It was Hyro the Hero, who has spent all year moving rapidly up our list of favorites. But while we try to book interviews with all of these acts, check out this episode for a discussion about the difference between a headline set and an opening set, a Dan rant about NOT being old, and some observations on how to handle awkward moments on stage. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E122 A Conversation with Mitch Swanger of Silent Theory

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to go silent... but only for a few seconds. Mitch Swanger of Silent Theory joins us for an enlightening conversation about the search for the right singer, questionable treatments for stage fright, and how YouTube has done right by his band. Plus, Dan receives a great birthday gift and The Itch receives a great compliment. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E121 The Itch On Tour: Pointfest & Riot Fest II

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to run it back! Last year KC and Dan went to Pointfest in St Louis on the same day Aaron went to Riot Fest in Chicago. This year the fests weren't on the same day, but they had the same attendees. And those three swell fellas have tails to tell. Join us to hear about Aaron making a realization about the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, putting Trent Reznor in time out, and hearing (but not seeing) one of Coolio's final performances. Stick around for KC and Dan's tales of thrown drumsticks, curious frontmen, and seeing not one, but two top tier Itch bands headline. And for last year's respective reviews of Pointfest & Riot Fest, check out episode 68!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E120 A(nother) Conversation with Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to catch up with a friend! Eva Marie of Eva Under Fire joined us twice last year in anticipation of their album Love, Drugs & Misery. Now the album is finally here, and it's capping a fantastic year for the band. Join us as we chat with Eva about the album, their new single featuring From Ashes to New, her series of mental health articles on Loudwire, and how being PG-13 (at best) is an important part of her identity. Plus, Eva lives out a dream experience of singing on stage with Lzzy Hale and Halestorm!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E119 The Itch On Tour: "Weird Al" Yankovic

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get weird! He's made many a cameo in previous episodes, but "Weird Al" is finally getting an Itch episode to himself! Lifelong fan KC recently got to see the Weird One for the first time on The Unfortunate Return of the Ridiculously Self-Indulgent Ill-Advised Vanity Tour, and he's sharing and comparing his experience with Aaron's from 2019's original Ridiculously Self-Indulgent Ill-Advised Vanity Tour. Join us to learn a lot about the King of Parody... even as he plays his originals!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E118 The Itch On Tour: Set It Off, Oxymorrons, Rain City Drive, & Concrete Castles

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for THE BEST CONCERT EXPERIENCE EVER. Are we exaggerating? Not really, no. Eight months after our bonkers interview with Oxymorrons, we finally got to see NYC's prettiest boy band live on tour at Red Flag with Set It Off, Rain City Drive, and Concrete Castles. And both the performance and the people exceeded our expectations. Join us to hear the story of another memorable night of music... and a ton of geeking out about our favorite rising band.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E117 The Itch On Tour: Dayseeker, The Word Alive, & Moodring

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a sadness sandwich! We've been clamoring to see Moodring ever since frontman Hunter Young joined us in episode 101. We finally got our chance, as they came through Red Flag on tour with Dayseeker and The Word Alive (plus St Louis' own In My Silence to open!)... and the show did not disappoint. Join us to hear the tales of Dan's beer line adventures, the frontman who laid it on too thick, and why stage right is a perfectly acceptable place to stand!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E116 A Conversation with Skye Sweetnam of Sumo Cyco

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to visit Cyco City! Following up on episode 107, creative whirlwind Skye Sweetnam of Sumo Cyco joins us to talk about her journey from pop star to rock star, our mutual love of Skindred and Nonpoint, and how to make an insane THIRTY-TWO music videos among three albums. If you've seen Sumo Cyco live or enjoyed their albums (or even if you haven't, really), Skye's energy is contagious and her history in the industry is rich and fascinating. We hope you learn as much as we did.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E115 Nu Rock Roundup: I Prevail, Hollywood Undead, Blind Channel

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a segue! We enjoyed our time with Blind Channel so much that we decided to include their album Lifestyles of the Sick & Dangerous among a couple of bands you could definitely call their peers: I Prevail and Hollywood Undead. We hope you enjoy this discussion about their August releases True Power and Hotel Kalifornia, respectively.

Also, The Itch has a sponsor! We're partnering with our own podcast production suite, Zencastr, to offer listeners a 30% discount on their Professional plan (following a free 14-day trial, naturally). Just go to zen.ai/itchrocks and use the promo code ITCHROCKS to get your discount. And hey, let us know when you do and we'll be sure to listen to your show and shout you out!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E114 A Conversation with Niko & Joel of Blind Channel

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to head north! We've got the most streamed rock band in Finland with us to kick off a new recurring interview series: Itch International! Blind Channel made waves in 2021 after appearing on Eurovision, leading to their song "Dark Side" receiving over 700,000 Spotify streams and over 12 million YouTube views. Earlier this year, they embarked on their first ever US tour alongside From Ashes to New and Fire From the Gods, and now they have their sights set on the rest of Europe. Listen to hear vocalists Niko Moilanen and Joel Hokka explain their reaction to one of their idols hearing "Dark Side", the best ways for a traveler to experience Finland, and the part of US touring that haunts their dreams to this day. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E113 The Death of Peace of Mind: Bad Omens, Good Sounds

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to go back in time! Bad Omens released The Death of Peace of Mind earlier this year and, well, we just didn't get to it until now. But that's not because the album isn't worthwhile. Rather, it's because there's so MUCH worthwhile music that it's impossible to keep up! So consider this a wrong righted. Enjoy a discussion about this (still mostly) new album. Stick around for a story about one of the most delightfully petty reasons we've heard for dropping off a tour.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E112 The Itch On Tour: Cam Cole

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for an overdue follow-up! KC took a road trip to Chicago to see Itch favorite (and Ted Lasso's own) Cam Cole at Martyrs! Along the way we'll discuss live show setups, what to do when your string breaks, and the best Reuben Aaron's ever had.

Here's Wes Anderson's video on how to befriend bands without being a dingus. And apologies to Wyatt Waddell for botching his name in this episode. He deserved better.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E111 The Itch On Tour: Des Rocs (featuring Filthy Animals Heidi and Kai!)

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get EVEN FILTHIER! After our interview with Des Rocs, KC had the chance to see him live at Delmar Hall in St Louis. But he wasn't alone! He ran into a couple of Itch friends, who made the concert experience that much better. So much so, in fact, that we invited them to join us to recap the show while Dan is on vacation. Enjoy The Itch... plus Filthy Animals Heidi and Kai!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E110 A Conversation with Des Rocs

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get filthy! Des Rocs, whose album A Real Good Person In A Real Bad Place took home our 2021 Debut Album of the Year award and earned a spot on our 2021 Top 20 Albums, joins us to talk about his creative process, the cost of fierce independence, and ... how he wants people to fear for his life? It's an incredibly insightful look into the mind of a true artist. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E109 Q2 Rock Roundup: Dorothy, Nova Twins, & The Warning

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for a Roundup! It's been a while. An entire quarter, in fact. And while there were a ton of albums worth talking about in Q2, we opted to zero in on one of our favorite topics: women who rock. Dorothy, Nova Twins, and The Warning each put out an LP that captured our attention, and we're betting they'll do the same for you, too. Check out the albums and let us know what you think!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] Kids'll Make You Modest

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This short cut was part of last week's recording session, but it foreshadows a couple of topics we touch on in next week's episode, so we had to give it to you for advance context and hopefully a couple of laughs. Enjoy the story of Dan's children setting unrealistic expectations for their father!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E108 The Itch On Tour: Teenage Wrist, Softcult, & Soul Blind

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to run it back! Aaron saw another show and we've got things to say about it! Listen to this 90s-sounding goodness as Teenage Wrist becomes the first true Itch On Tour two-timer, Softcult teaches us that boys don't HAVE to be boys, and Soul Blind reminds makes us miss some Australians. Plus, the debut of yet another new segment. Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E107 The Itch On Tour: Sumo Cyco & Black Satellite

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to visit Cyco City! Or at least Reggie's in Chicago. Sumo Cyco finished their headlining tour with New York's Black Satellite there a couple weeks back, and The Itch's own Aaron was there to experience the sights, sounds, and even smells of the show (more on each in the episode). Along the way, The Itch makes a friend, creates its own fan club, shares a bandicap beef (shout out to Podioslave), and debuts a brand new segment! It's an eventful episode! Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E106 A Conversation with Cam Cole

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to keep a promise! Cam Cole won our 2nd annual March Bandness tournament, and we've owed you an episode on him ever since. But we weren't content to just talk ABOUT him. We wanted to talk WITH him. So here you are, 3 months later... and we think it was worth the wait. Cam is a fascinating person and performer who has brought his one-man band show from the streets of London to the US for the first time ever. As he enters the last weeks of this road trip of a lifetime, he took a break to talk with us about the beauty of people, the hazards of securing travel in a foreign country, and who has America's best BBQ. Plus, he gives us a preview of his wonderfully ambitious fall plans. Enjoy.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E105 A Conversation with Tonya & Cody of Lydia's Castle

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to talk about mawwiage! Tonya and Cody of Lydia's Castle join us to talk about their debut EP, their recruitment of former Staind drummer Jon Wysocki into the band, and how they built a rallying cry out of a tragedy they undured as a couple. After that, stick around to hear about The Itch's experience seeing Lydia's Castle live at a venue that Dan almost literally could crawl home from. Don't worry, he didn't have to.

To see, hear, and definitely feel a version of the story of Lydia's Castle, check out the video for their single "Search For You". You can stream the entire debut EP here, and score some sweet merch here to support the band.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E104 The Itch On Tour: Nothing More, Atreyu, & Eva Under Fire

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch for Nothing More than a good show! And not only did we get one, but we got a couple of nice dad jokes to boot. On June 9, KC, Dan, and Dan's wife Hannah visited The Pageant in St. Louis to see Nothing More, Atreyu, and Eva Under Fire. It was a memorable experience for a number of reasons you'll quickly discover. In the meantime, Aaron missed three chances to see Atreyu in under two weeks. He is shamefaced.

Also, shout out to Asking Alexandria, who had to drop off the tour, but has put out back-to-back quality albums in their own right.

For more on Eva Under Fire, check out episodes 73 and 80. For more on Atreyu, check out episode 59. For more on Nothing More, keep listening.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E103 A Conversation with Kevin Baldes of Lit

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to get Lit! Affable and multi-talented bassist Kevin Baldes joins us for a great discussion spanning the band's career, from their evergreen single "My Own Worst Enemy" to their lively new album Tastes Like Gold, which comes out June 17th. Along the way we'll discuss Kevin's other artistic endeavors, the times Lit almost broke up, and a proposed sequel to their most famous music video. And as promised, here's a link to Lit's video for "Yeah Yeah Yeah". Enjoy!

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

[Short Cuts] The Itch Returns to Playlist Wars!

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 08:45:00 -0000

They invited us back for more! The Itch isn't releasing a full episode today, but you can still get your fix as KC and Aaron join our friends on Playlist Wars for The Battle of 2002 Songs! Check it out, let us know who created the best 10-track playlist, and stay tuned this Thursday, when The Itch... gets Lit.

And if you have the itch to hear brand new rock tracks every Friday, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist!

E102 Back From the Dead: The Return of Halestorm

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 08:45:00 -0000

This week, we're scratching The Itch to debut a new segment! Flavor of the Week has been a staple of our radio show for years, and album reviews have always been part of the podcast, both as part of Roundup episodes and as larger, band exploration episodes. But we wanted the best of all worlds, so expect to see more of these shorter episodes zeroing in on our favorite new releases in the future.

First up is Halestorm and their new album Back From the Dead. Halestorm is a favorite of Dan and his wife, and we're actually kind of shocked that this is the first time we've really focused on them. But the album definitely warranted a conversation. So enjoy!

And hey, when you're done, follow our New Rock Roundup playlist and then connect with us!