Best We Re The Defects Podcasts (2024)

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Episode #219 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Reunions, wayward bats, bass defects, coming home and farewells 55:56

4d ago55:56

55:56

This week we conclude our exhaustive coverage of Night Demon's spring 2024 North American tour opening for Blind Guardian. The guys describe reuniting with beloved ex-drummer Dusty in Pennsylvania on a day off. They talk about memorable tour-ending gigs in Harrisburg, PA and Cleveland, OH, at the latter of which Blind Guardian pulled off an epic pr…

1
This is Supposed to Be a Children’s Story with Kerry Madden-Lunsford 1:00:11

1d ago1:00:11

1:00:11

Today we talk with writer Kerry Madden-Lunsford about how Al-Anon has helped her deal with the pain of having a child who’s treatment-resistant and now living on the streets of Los Angeles. Find more stories and conversations at thesmallbow.com. Kerry’s book Werewolf Hamlet Kerry’s Substack "Easy Crier" by Al Oldender Listen to Swamp Dogg’s new alb…

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Episode #218 - The God Machine Tour 2024: New England Vibes, Big Apple Headaches and the Power of Belief 59:16

8d ago59:16

59:16

This week we follow Night Demon's spring 2024 trek opening for Blind Guardian back onto US soil for a show in Worcester, Massachusetts. You will learn why the show was challenging from a technical standpoint, but how the lads in Night Demon salvaged triumph from the jaws of defeat anyway. Then the narrative shifts to Night Demon's massive gig at th…

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Episode #217 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Falling Down, Language Barriers and Border Crossings 49:36

15d ago49:36

49:36

This week we continue with our narrative of Night Demon's spring 2024 tour supporting Blind Guardian in North America. We pick up the tale with an epic show in Montreal, Canada. It was the biggest selling show of the tour, but it came with a variety of logistical challenges. You will hear all about this magical night, complete with audio from the t…

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Sayonara Wild Hearts (2019) A Roller-coaster Of Closure 1:08:08

18d ago1:08:08

1:08:08

This week on Critical Arcade, Nick and Dave strap on their heart-shaped sunglasses and ride into the neon dreamscape of 'Sayonara Wild Hearts.' Described as a "pop album video game," this dazzling rhythmic adventure takes them through a kaleidoscope of vibrant worlds filled with motorcycles, skateboards, laser duels, and heartbreak. As they follow …

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Episode #216 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Four Minute Load-Offs, Harrowing Border Crossings, Velvet Couches and Another Broken Snare Drum 54:53

22d ago54:53

54:53

This week we continue telling the tale of Night Demon's adventures supporting Blind Guardian on their spring 2024 North American Tour. We resume the story at a small venue in Des Moines, Iowa, where the band overcame an undersized stage and logistical challenges to deliver a top-notch show. The following day was an 837-mile forced march to Toronto,…

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Astro Bot (2024) An Astro-nomically Good Time 1:13:30

24d ago1:13:30

1:13:30

This week on Critical Arcade, Nick and Dave take on the role of everyone's favorite byte-sized robot Astro Bot. After bumping into the galaxy's infamous Space Bully Nebulax, they are tasked with rebuilding their spacefaring PS5 and rounding up all their little robot pals from over 100 different planets some inspired by Playstation's most memorable …

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Why Does No One Care About Recovery Month? with Joe Schrank 1:01:20

29d ago1:01:20

1:01:20

For the past five years, TSB’s in-house social worker, Joe Schrank, has tried to get someone other than us (and Andy Cohen) to acknowledge Recovery Month every September. Alcoholism and mental health issues affect one in ten Americans. So why does no one want to talk about it? Find more like this at thesmallbow.com. And Listen to Swamp Dogg’s new a…

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Episode #215 - The God Machine Tour 2014: Light Sabers, The Imperial March and the Twin Cities 49:56

29d ago49:56

49:56

This week our ongoing deep dive into Night Demon's spring 2024 tour opening for German heavyweights Blind Guardian continues with tour stops in Denver, Colorado and Minneapolis, Minnesota. You will hear what the band did in Colorado to commemorate May 4, including equipping Rocky with a light saber and playing a special Star Wars themed outro at th…

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The Lego Movie Videogame (2014) Everything's Not Awesome 1:03:32

1M ago1:03:32

1:03:32

This week on Critical Arcade, Nick and Dave dive into the colorful and creative world of The Lego Movie Videogame! Released in 2014, this game tries to capture all the charm, humor, and endless possibilities of the Lego universe, offering players a chance to relive the adventures of Emmet, Wyldstyle, Batman, and a whole host of other iconic charact…

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Episode #214 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Tossing Fish, Seattle Dogs, Paranormal Activity and Playing at Altitude 59:23

1M ago59:23

59:23

This week we continue with an in-depth recap of Night Demon’s spring 2024 North American tour supporting German stalwarts Night Demon. We pick up the narrative with the gig in Seattle, Washington. You will hear about Seattle’s significance to the guys, the beautiful historic venue, and how the band navigated logistical challenges including a curfew…

1
Take this Pod and Shove It 26:31

1M ago26:31

26:31

We talk to each other about the state of the podcast, and whether A.J.'s workaholic tendencies torpedoed the chance for a second season with iHeartRadio. Also — we need more voice memos from you about your own workaholic/ambition problems. Hit ajd@thesmallbow.com subject WORKAHOLIC, or 323-917-3846. Swamp Dogg’s latest record here.…

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Tales of Vesperia (2014) A Grand Chase at a Snails Pace 1:06:57

1M ago1:06:57

1:06:57

This week on Critical Arcade, Nick and Dave set sail for adventure in the sprawling world of Tales of Vesperia. They take on the mantle of Yuri Lowell, a former Imperial Knight who’s more comfortable solving problems with his fists than following orders. They stumble upon a plot involving the misuse of ancient technology called "blastia," they must…

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Episode #213 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Haunted Venues, New PAs, and Massage Misadventures 53:52

1M ago53:52

53:52

This week we resume our narrative of Night Demon's spring 2024 tour supporting German masters Blind Guardian in North America. This episode picks up gigs in San Francisco and Portland. You will hear all about the historic venue in San Francisco and the accompanying sound issues. Then it's on to Portland where a massage appointment goes awry, a gig …

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Erica (2019) The Butterfly Defect 1:02:59

2M ago1:02:59

1:02:59

This week on Critical Arcade, Nick and Dave take a deep breath and dive headfirst into the cinematic and suspense-filled world of Erica. Playing as Erica Mason, a young woman haunted by the brutal murder of her father finds herself entwined in the inner workings of the mental institution her mother was sent to. They must make split-second decisions…

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Some Kind of Ambition Monster with Jennifer Romolini 1:08:29

2M ago1:08:29

1:08:29

We talk with writer Jennifer Romolini about Philly shit, her book "Ambition Monster," her relapse into workaholism while promoting the book, and how to be satisfied with a “B minus” work day. Also: We’re calling on the Small Bow Family Orchestra: Do you think you might be a workaholic? What moments come to mind? Send a voice memo along to ajd@thesm…

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Episode #212 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Crosswinds, Sandstorms, Phoenix and The Belasco 54:42

2M ago54:42

54:42

Our tale of Night Demon's 2024 North American tour supporting German legends Blind Guardian resumes with the long and arduous drive from Austin to Phoenix, as high crosswinds, automatic braking features and a sandstorm wreak havoc on the touring van and touring party. You will hear how the band made the most of a small, packed room in Phoenix, then…

1
Crysis 2 (2011) Suit Up 1:04:07

2M ago1:04:07

1:04:07

This week on Critical Arcade, Nick and Dave suit up in nano suits to take on the role of Alcatraz, a Marine left for dead but given a second chance thanks to an advanced nanofiber suit. They must battle through the ravaged cityscape and traverse various environments, from the flooded streets of Lower Manhattan to the crumbling skyscrapers of Midtow…

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Episode #211 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Texas Heat, Seated Shows, Broken Snare Drums, and Serendipity 52:37

2M ago52:37

52:37

This week we continue recounting the glories of Night Demon's spring 2024 tour opening for Blind Guardian across the United States. In this episode, we cover the Texas leg of the tour, beginning with a long day of driving from Atlanta that brought tantalizing news of fall tour dreams coming true. The guys then take you through their successful show…

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I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream (1995) I Game, Therefore I Am 1:09:18

2M ago1:09:18

1:09:18

In this episode, Nick and Dave step into the roles of Gorrister, Benny, Ellen, Nimdok, and Ted. Each with their own uniquely torturous scenario designed by AM, an Artificial Intelligence, to exploit their deepest fears and regrets. They'll have to explore the dark and twisted environments AM creates, ranging from a desolate wasteland to a gruesome …

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Main Character Defects with Josh Radnor 1:10:59

2M ago1:10:59

1:10:59

Josh Radnor joins TSB pod to discuss the spiritual life he acquired while navigating the pitfalls of becoming internationally famous for his role as Ted Mosby on “How I Met Your Mother.” We also discuss the problem with gurus, the perks of solitude, free desserts, and “Brats”. Find Josh's newsletter here. And check out Swamp Dogg's album Black Gras…

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Episode #210 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Masquerade, Bus Woes & Hip Hop Karaoke 46:59

2M ago46:59

46:59

This week we resume our examination of Night Demon's spring 2024 tour opening for Blind Guardian in North America. The narrative picks up with show #4 in Atlanta, Georgia. The guys talk about their history with tonight's venue, the famous Masquerade, and its various incarnations. On the day in question, Blind Guardian's bus broke down again, creati…

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Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction (2007) Tools, Fools And Jelly Pools 1:07:55

2M ago1:07:55

1:07:55

In this episode of Critical Arcade, Dave and Nick embark on an epic intergalactic journey with everyone's favorite Lombax and his trusty robotic sidekick. They must uncover the sinister plot of Emperor Percival Tachyon, a tyrannical Cragmite hell-bent on destroying Ratchet and reclaiming the galaxy for his race. Along the way, they learn about the …

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Episode #209 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Backstage Hot Tubs, Load-Out Downpours, and Signing Fantasy Novels 50:31

2M ago50:31

50:31

This week we continue our exploration of Night Demon's spring 2024 US tour opening for the mighty Blind Guardian. We pick up the tale with the second show of the tour in Norfolk, VA and take you through the next gig in Charlotte, NC as well. By this time, Night Demon are settling into the tour, enjoying the good vibes, playing great shows to packed…

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Go Say Hello with Mary HK Choi 1:18:01

2M ago1:18:01

1:18:01

Mary HK Choi returns to the pod to discuss her extremely popular NY Mag essay about her adult autism diagnosis. We also discuss social anxiety, self-forgiveness in the aftermath of both our father’s deaths, and Mary’s practice of using a post-it note to remind her to “go say hello” to other people in social situations and not to isolate. Some of th…

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Children of Morta (2019) We Are Family 1:02:22

2M ago1:02:22

1:02:22

This week on Critical Arcade, Dave and Nick venture into the beautifully pixelated yet perilous world of 'Children of Morta.' Delving deeper into the ever-changing caverns, forests, and temples, they'll need to harness the strengths of each Bergson—whether it's John's steadfast sword and shield, Linda's precise archery, or Lucy's powerful spells—to…

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Episode #208 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Tour Kickoff and Good Vibes 54:24

3M ago54:24

54:24

This week we continue our coverage of Night Demon's spring 2024 tour opening for Blind Guardian in North America. You will hear all about the band's pre-show playlist, the construction of the setlist, and the logistics that led them to Silver Spring, MD to begin the tour. The guys talk about meeting Blind Guardian, their impressions from the first …

1
Zenless Zone Zero (2024) Gotta Gatch Them All! 1:16:34

3M ago1:16:34

1:16:34

This week on Critical Arcade, Nick and Dave find themselves in the bustling, post-apocalyptic metropolis of New Eridu, the last urban civilization standing. In Zenless Zone Zero. They step into the roles of Proxies, guiding survivors through dangerous anomalies and battling mysterious, interdimensional entities known as the Ethereal. As they naviga…

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Connection Junkie with Peaceful John 56:36

3M ago56:36

56:36

The inimitable Peaceful John returns for our new season for another round of soothing lessons in reparenting ourselves. Today we talk about the difference between deserving and entitlement. Do you know the difference? Neither did we.By thesmallbow.com

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Episode #207 - The God Machine Tour 2024: Guardians Meet Demons 49:39

3M ago49:39

49:39

In spring 2024, Night Demon embarked on a full U.S. tour with German power metal heroes Blind Guardian. In this episode, we explore the whys and wherefores for the tour. How the tour came about. The offer. The band's reflections and response. And the sheer logistical nightmares of getting Night Demon band and crew onto the Eastern Seaboard of the U…

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Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance (2024) Deals, Demons And Deities 1:07:22

3M ago1:07:22

1:07:22

This week on Critical Arcade, Dave and Nick step into the shoes of a high school student who merges with a mysterious being to turn into a Nahobino, gaining incredible powers to help navigate post-apocalyptic Tokyo transformed into Da'at, a realm where angels and demons clash in an eternal struggle. They'll encounter a vast array of supernatural be…

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Episode #206 - Scream For Me Santa Ana! The Demon supports Bruce Dickinson 1:24:42

3M ago1:24:42

1:24:42

On April 15, 2024, Night Demon had the privilege of opening for the one and only Bruce Dickinson at The Observatory in Santa Ana, California. In this episode, you will hear of the massive influence that Bruce and Iron Maiden had on Jarvis, Armand, and Brian, individually and collectively. They explain how this show came to be, how the logistics wer…

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Episode #205 - Hell's Heroes VI - Part 2 1:03:24

3M ago1:03:24

1:03:24

This week we conclude our two-part recap of Night Demon's historic performance at the Hell's Heroes Festival in Houston, Texas, in March 2024. That night the band performed a special surprise covers set, including one song they had never performed live before and several others that are aired only rarely. This episode features complete audio of the…

1
Dead Inside with Megan Koester 1:01:26

3M ago1:01:26

1:01:26

We reconnect with comedian Megan Koester and learn all about her (new) sobriety and how she’s finally excavating some long-buried family trauma. After multiple EMDR sessions, she’s learning how to grieve. But is she less funny now?By thesmallbow.com

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Episode #204 - Hell's Heroes VI - Part 1 55:55

4M ago55:55

55:55

This week's episode is devoted to Night Demon's appearance in March 2024 at the stellar Hell's Heroes Festival in Houston, Texas. The guys describe the history and significance of the festival, their relationship with the promoter, and the reasons why it was important for them to play there again this year. You will hear their impressions of other …

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Nothing Will Ever Be Boring Again, with Emily Gould 1:10:18

4M ago1:10:18

1:10:18

Emily Gould is a writer from New York Magazine. This Valentine's Day, The Cut published Emily's essay "The Lure of Divorce." Between the two, Emily was coming to grips with a mental breakdown. We talk about her bipolar diagnosis and the way back into herself and into her marriage. It gets real!By thesmallbow.com

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Episode #203 - Save Me Now - Part 2 56:32

4M ago56:32

56:32

This week's episode marks the second half of our deep dive into the overlooked, underrated Curse of the Damned cut, "Save Me Now." You will hear all about how the song was originally recorded as part of the ill-fated Run for Your Life sessions in Armand's Satellite Studios, how the organ intro came to be, and why it was retained in the final album …

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Episode #202 - Save Me Now - Part 1 45:21

4M ago45:21

45:21

This week we return to our popular feature of spotlighting certain tracks from Night Demon's history and taking deep dives into their origins. This time we tackle "Save Me Now," a deep cut and an outlier from the early Night Demon discography as it closes out the Curse of the Damned album. You'll hear about how and by whom the song was written, why…

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Episode #201 - 2 Minutes to Tulsa 1:14:07

4M ago1:14:07

1:14:07

In spring 2024, Night Demon was set to headline the first night of the 2 Minutes to Tulsa festival in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Things went dreadfully awry. In this episode, we tell the entire story of the grandiose plans, of everything that went wrong, and of how the band went above and beyond to set things right that night and the following night. Step be…

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Episode #200 - Two Hundred Episodes in Review 1:11:04

5M ago1:11:04

1:11:04

Join Night Demon this week as we celebrate our 200th consecutive weekly podcast episode. For this special retrospective episode, host Nesbit looks back on the history of the podcast, from its humble beginnings as an unnamed 14-minute proof of concept all the way through today. Along the way, we highlight defining features of the podcast, including …

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Gunstar Heroes (1993) Locked, Loaded And Goated 1:05:45

5M ago1:05:45

1:05:45

This week on Critical Arcade, Dave and Nick are locked and loaded as they blast their way through the action-packed world of Gunstar Heroes. Originally released in 1993, this adrenaline-fueled run-and-gun shooter pits our dynamic duo against the evil forces of the Empire. With a variety of weapons at their disposal and the ability to combine them f…

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