Best Chris Casillas Podcasts (2024)

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

25m ago1:02:56

1:02:56

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

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

13m ago1:03:56

1:03:56

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

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

16d ago1:09:28

1:09:28

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

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

12d ago58:17

58:17

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

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

19d ago1:04:56

1:04:56

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

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

27d ago33:49

33:49

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

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

26d ago1:08:19

1:08:19

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

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

1M ago56:55

56:55

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

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Ep. 209: Matt Skiba discusses Alkaline Trio's "Time to Waste" 1:06:33

1M ago1:06:33

1:06:33

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

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

2M ago1:11:38

1:11:38

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

51
Ep. 207: Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn discuss Local Natives "When Am I Gonna Lose You" 1:08:15

2M ago1:08:15

1:08:15

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

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

2M ago1:18:19

1:18:19

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

1
Ep. 205: Jacoby Shaddix discusses Papa Roach's "Last Resort" 1:11:49

3M ago1:11:49

1:11:49

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

1
Ep. 204: Joshua Fleming discusses Vandoliers "Every Saturday Night" 58:28

3M ago58:28

58:28

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

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

3M ago1:10:45

1:10:45

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

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

3M ago1:23:24

1:23:24

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

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

4M ago54:13

54:13

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

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

4M ago40:33

40:33

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

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

4M ago1:10:37

1:10:37

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

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

4M ago1:06:50

1:06:50

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

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

4M ago54:38

54:38

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

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

5M ago1:03:41

1:03:41

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

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

5M ago1:03:49

1:03:49

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

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

5M ago28:41

28:41

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

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

5M ago1:02:39

1:02:39

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

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Ep. 194: Jonathan Anastas discusses D.Y.S. "Wolfpack" 57:43

5M ago57:43

57:43

Sitting in this week is Jonathan Anastas, bassist of the influential Boston straight edge hardcore band D.Y.S. Jonathan recounts the writing and recording process of their seminal track "Wolfpack" from the 1983 album Brotherhood, which was recorded when he was just 15 years old. He shares anecdotes about the youthful energy and passion that fueled …

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Ep. 193: Rob "Bucket" Hingley discusses The Toasters "2-Tone Army" 54:59

5M ago54:59

54:59

Rob "Bucket" Hingley is not only the founding member of The Toasters but also the visionary behind Moon Ska Records, which played a crucial part in cultivating and promoting ska music in the US and beyond. In this episode, he shares insights into the creative process behind the writing and recording of the classic 1996 fan favorite song from The To…

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Ep. 192: Geoff Rickly discusses Thursday's "Signals Over the Air" 1:06:56

6M ago1:06:56

1:06:56

This week, Thursday frontman Geoff Rickly sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2003 single “Signals Over the Air”. Taken from the band’s third album War All the Time, the song is a dynamic amalgamation of melody and aggression, and it’s much rawer than the polished productions that most people would expect from a major label r…

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Ep. 191: Jonah Matranga discusses Far's "Mother Mary" 1:04:20

6M ago1:04:20

1:04:20

Far's 1998 album Water & Solutions is considered an influential record by a number of beloved bands. Filled to the brim with haunting melodies, powerful guitar hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics, this album is a significant piece of music history. In this episode, vocalist Jonah Matranga discusses the writing and recording of the band's most well-…

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Ep. 190: Keith Buckley discusses Many Eyes "Revelation" 1:10:34

6M ago1:10:34

1:10:34

Keith Buckley returns to the show, this time to discuss the writing and recording of Many Eyes' 2023 single, "Revelation." Deeply personal lyrics delivered with a mix of ferocity and melody over heavy grooves make this song a memorable debut. In this episode, Keith breaks down every aspect of its inception. If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and y…

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Ep. 189: Andy Jackson discusses Hot Rod Circuit's "The Pharmacist" 1:00:05

6M ago1:00:05

1:00:05

Hot Rod Circuit guitarist and vocalist Andy Jackson sits in this week to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2002 single “The Pharmacist”. While it may seem that the song is detailing a story of love gone wrong, the actual story behind the lyrics is as unexpected as it is heartbreaking. Andy also opens up about the organic recording exp…

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Ep. 188: Mitchy Collins discusses lovelytheband's "broken" 1:01:28

7M ago1:01:28

1:01:28

lovelytheband took the music world by storm in 2018 with their breakout single "broken," which went on to become one of the most successful singles ever on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart. In this episode, vocalist and guitarist Mitchy Collins discusses the origins of the song, which was born out of a personal low point but went on to meteori…

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Ep. 187: Mark Tremonti discusses Creed's "Higher" 1:01:07

7M ago1:01:07

1:01:07

In this week's episode, guitarist and vocalist Mark Tremonti discusses the writing and recording of Creed’s iconic 1999 single, "Higher." This rock anthem soared to the top of the charts, solidifying the band as one of the era’s defining acts. Having already achieved success with their debut album, the astronomical rise of "Higher" from their sopho…

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End of 2023 Recap 1:06:43

7M ago1:06:43

1:06:43

Chris and Chris take a look back at the amazing guests that sat in for episodes of the show in 2023. If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes, have access to a giant back catalog of bonus episodes, AND help the show continue, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more ab…

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Ep. 186: Jaret Reddick discusses Bowling For Soup's "Girl All The Bad Guys Want" 1:21:11

7M ago1:21:11

1:21:11

In this episode, Jaret Reddick takes a look back at the creation of Bowling For Soup's Grammy-nominated 2002 hit, "Girl All The Bad Guys Want.” The song was his first ever co-write, a collaborative effort with the talented Butch Walker, who was also at the production helm for their acclaimed album Drunk Enough To Dance. The episode dives into the m…

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Ep. 185: Eric Bazilian discusses Joan Osborne's "One Of Us" 1:09:36

8M ago1:09:36

1:09:36

Eric Bazilian makes his triumphant return to the show, this time to dive into the fascinating backstory of his iconic song “One Of Us,” made famous by Joan Osborne in 1995. Eric recounts the spontaneous genesis of the track, revealing that he composed it in a single night after his then-girlfriend expressed interest in his recording process. Despit…

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Throwback Thursday: Joe Escalante discusses The Vandals "Oi to the World!" 49:48

8M ago49:48

49:48

This week's Throwback Thursday episode is from all the way back on December 14th of 2020, when Joe Escalante sat in for Episode 29 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast to discuss the writing and recording of the holiday classic from The Vandals, "Oi to the World!" If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and want to help support the show (and get weekly bonus epi…

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Ep. 184: Ryan Cabrera discusses his song "On The Way Down" 1:10:32

8M ago1:10:32

1:10:32

In this week's episode, singer-songwriter Ryan Cabrera takes a trip down memory lane, diving into the fascinating story behind his 2004 hit single “On The Way Down”. Ryan reveals the ins and outs of the song's writing, recording, and release, shedding light on his collaboration with producer Johnny Rzeznik of Goo Goo Dolls fame. He reflects on the …

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Ep. 183: Karl Alvarez discusses Descendents "I'm The One" 1:03:52

8M ago1:03:52

1:03:52

Descendents bassist Karl Alvarez takes center stage in this episode, focusing on the band's 1996 single, "I'm The One." An enduring fan favorite, the song is driven by its raw and relatable lyrics that navigate the complexities of unrequited love. Drawing from real-life tales of romantic struggles shared by friends at the time, he unveils the perso…

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Ep. 182: Greg Hetson discusses Circle Jerks "Back Against the Wall" 54:44

8M ago54:44

54:44

In this episode, Circle Jerks guitarist and all-around punk rock icon Greg Hetson discusses the writing, recording, release, and legacy of the 1980 Circle Jerks song "Back Against the Wall." Recorded essentially for free during the studio's after-hours, Group Sex became a classic album that launched the band's career, with this particular song serv…

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Ep. 181: Duncan Redmonds discusses Snuff's "Nick Northern" 1:11:47

8M ago1:11:47

1:11:47

Snuff's 1996 single "Nick Northern" served as the gateway into the band for many listeners, as it was featured on a popular punk compilation of the mid-'90s. In this episode, drummer and vocalist Duncan Redmonds details the story behind the creation of this iconic track. From the heartbreak that inspired the lyrics to the surprising story behind th…

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Throwback Thursday: Max Collins discusses Eve 6's "Inside Out" 1:01:10

9M ago1:01:10

1:01:10

In today's Throwback Thursday episode, we take a look back to June of 2021, when Max Collins sat in for Episode 54 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast to discuss the writing, recording, and release of Eve 6's hit 1998 single "Inside Out". To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more a…

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Ep. 180: Jason DeVore discusses Authority Zero's "One More Minute" 1:10:34

9M ago1:10:34

1:10:34

Authority Zero vocalist Jason DeVore sits in to share the story behind the creation and recording of the band's 2002 single, "One More Minute," from their album A Passage In Time. Together with producer Dave Jerden, the band created this reggae-infused track that has resonated with fans for decades. In this episode, Jason dives into many of the fac…

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Throwback Thursday: Blake Schwarzenbach discusses Jawbreaker's "Boxcar" 45:05

9M ago45:05

45:05

This week's Throwback Thursday episode comes from April 19th, 2021, when Blake Schwarzenbach sat in to discuss the writing, recording, release, and legacy of Jawbreaker's classic track "Boxcar". If you enjoy Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for t…

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Ep. 179: Spencer Charnas discusses Ice Nine Kills "Hip To Be Scared" 1:29:00

9M ago1:29:00

1:29:00

Ice Nine Kills vocalist Spencer Charnas makes his triumphant return to the show, this time to discuss the creative process behind the 2021 single "Hip To Be Scared." The spine-tingling track was inspired by the iconic book and film American Psycho, and the song is filled with just as many unexpected twists and turns, all held together by a massive …

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SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "Halloween #1 Hits" episode 39:11

9M ago39:11

39:11

First released on October 31st of 2022, this episode of The After Party dives into an array of songs from over the years that sat at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on Halloween Day. To get weekly episodes of The After Party just like this one (and a GIANT back catalog of past episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting…

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Ep. 178: Chris Freeman discusses Hot Mulligan's "Equip Sunglasses" 1:03:48

9M ago1:03:48

1:03:48

In this episode, Hot Mulligan guitarist Chris Freeman dives into the creation and recording of the fan-favorite track "*Equip Sunglasses*". While producer Brett Romnes played a pivotal role in bringing the song to life, the track's structure remained remarkably faithful to its original demo. Beyond its catchy melodies, "*Equip Sunglasses*" serves a…

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Throwback Thursday: Mummy Cass discusses Here Come The Mummies "Pants" 50:52

9M ago50:52

50:52

This Throwback Thursday, we're taking it back to October 11th, 2021, when Mummy Cass sat in to discuss the writing and recording of the 2008 Here Come The Mummies single "Pants". This hilarious and insightful look into the track is the perfect listen for the Halloween season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

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Ep. 177: Rou Reynolds discusses Enter Shikari's "(pls) set me on fire" 1:05:30

9M ago1:05:30

1:05:30

In this episode, Enter Shikari vocalist Rou Reynolds takes center stage as he unravels the compelling story behind the writing, recording, and release of their 2023 hit single "(pls) set me on fire," hailing from the chart-topping album A Kiss for the Whole World. As both the album's producer and visionary artist, Rou dives into the intricacies of …

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Ep. 176: Efrem Schulz discusses Death By Stereo's "Forever and a Day" 1:11:48

10M ago1:11:48

1:11:48

Death By Stereo frontman Efrem Schulz takes center stage in this episode as he unveils the backstory of Death By Stereo's 2005 single, "Forever and a Day." With a fervor that matches the song's intensity, Efrem guides listeners through the process of writing, recording, and releasing this deeply personal anthem, which revolves around a heartfelt pr…

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