Signals From Mars Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Philip Shouse Mar 10, 2026

Show notes

Guitarist Philip Shouse joins Signals From Mars to discuss his first solo EP, Side 1 and the journey that led him to finally release music under his own name.

Known for performing alongside artists such as Ace Frehley, Gene Simmons, John Corabi, Accept, and the Rock N Roll Residency, Philip has spent years on stages around the world. With Side 1, he steps into the spotlight as a solo artist and shares the songs that represent his personal musical vision.

In this interview, Philip discusses how long he has been working on the material, whether he ever shared the songs with artists he’s collaborated with, and the challenges of being seen as Philip Shouse the artist rather than just the guitarist supporting other legendary performers.

We also dive into his experiences playing with members of KISS, the unique environment of The Rock N Roll Residency, and what the future holds with Accept.

Philip also shares his long-term plans for his solo music, whether Side 2 may be on the horizon, and where fans can go to purchase Side 1 and support him directly.

If you're a fan of hard rock, classic rock guitar, and behind-the-scenes stories from musicians who have shared the stage with legends, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Follow Philip Shouse

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https://www.instagram.com/philipshouse

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https://www.facebook.com/philipshouse

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https://x.com/philipshouse

Follow Signals From Mars

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Special thanks to Signals From Mars Patrons

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

#SignalsFromMars #PhilipShouse #AcceptBand #AceFrehley #GeneSimmons #HardRock #HeavyMetal #Guitarist #RockPodcast #MetalPodcast #RockInterview #GuitarHero #ClassicRock #MetalCommunity #RockNRoll

1980 Mar 06, 2026

Show notes

This episode is a fan-voted countdown of hard rock and heavy metal albums released in 1980.

All rankings are based on listener submissions and calculated using the same points system used in previous Signals From Mars countdown episodes.

This episode focuses purely on how the audience voted, highlighting consensus picks, surprise placements, and albums that narrowly missed the cut.

What We’re Covering

Listener-submitted Top 10 albums from 1980

Final rankings based on total points

Discussion of each album’s placement, impact, and legacy

Reactions to controversial rankings and omissions

How 1980 compares to other classic metal years already covered on the show

Voting Rules Recap

Only albums originally released in 1980 were eligible

Studio albums only (no live albums or compilations)

Points assigned by rank (higher rank = more points)

Final list ordered by total points

Livestream Format

Countdown presented from lowest rank to #1

Ongoing live chat reactions and debate

Listener shout-outs as rankings are revealed

Open discussion once the Top 3 are revealed

Talking Points to Keep in Mind

The shift from late-’70s hard rock to early ’80s metal

Early NWOBHM influence vs established legacy acts

Albums that aged better—or worse—than expected

Fan voting vs “classic list” narratives

Thank you goes out to my Patrons:

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive!

🔊 Signals From Mars Links

Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Signalsfrommars

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommars

X / Twitter: https://x.com/signalsfrommars

Alex Skolnick Feb 27, 2026

Show notes

In Episode 445, Victor sits down with Alex Skolnick for a wide-ranging conversation that digs into creativity, collaboration, and the mindset of a player who never stops evolving. From the unique chemistry behind Metal Allegiance to reflections on live performance, artistic curiosity beyond metal, and moments that defined a legendary career, this episode balances deep guitar talk with thoughtful storytelling. We talk Metal Allegiance, Testament, Savatage, Ozzy, and The Alex Skolnick Trio.

#AlexSkolnick #MetalAllegiance #SignalsFromMars

Thank you goes out to my Patrons:

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive!

🔗 Artist & Band Links

Alex Skolnick

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexskolnick
X / Twitter: https://x.com/alexskolnick

Metal Allegiance

Website: https://metalallegiance.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/metalallegiance
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetalAllegiance
X / Twitter: https://x.com/metalallegiance

Testament

Website: https://testamentlegions.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/testamentofficial
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/testamentlegions
X / Twitter: https://x.com/testament

🔊 Signals From Mars Links

Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SignalsFromMars
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommars
X / Twitter: https://x.com/signalsfrommars

A Wilhelm Scream Feb 24, 2026

Show notes

In Episode 444 of Signals From Mars, I’m joined by Ben and Nuno from A Wilhelm Scream for a wide-ranging conversation that dives into the mindset behind their latest album Cheap Heat, the band’s creative process, and the many layers that make up their sound and identity.

Rather than sticking to surface-level promo talk, this interview explores how the band thinks about album construction, influence, environment, collaboration, and longevity—both musically and personally. From unexpected cultural touchstones to the realities of self-producing records, this is a discussion rooted in experience, honesty, and mutual respect.

If you’re interested in how bands evolve without boxing themselves into a single genre, how outside perspectives shape great records, or how chemistry inside a band develops over time, this episode offers plenty to chew on—without needing to spell everything out for you upfront.

🤘 Signals From Mars Patrons

Huge thanks to the patrons who help keep the show independent and listener-driven:

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive!

🔗 A Wilhelm Scream – Official Links

Website: https://www.awilhelmscream.com
Bandcamp: https://awilhelmscream.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awilhelmscream
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awilhelmscream
X / Twitter: https://x.com/awilhelmscream

🔗 Signals From Mars – Follow & Support

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars
X / Twitter: https://x.com/signalsfrommars

Hoexed Feb 20, 2026

Show notes

In Signals From Mars – Episode 443, I’m joined by Kat Keo of Hoaxed to talk about the band’s latest album, Death Knocks, and the evolution of their sound and lineup.

We get into the sonic jump you’ll hear on this record, the creative process behind bringing April Dimmick into the fold, how that changed what the band can do musically, and how Death Knocks came together after Two Shadows. We also dig into genre labels (hard rock / heavy metal / gothic rock), the realities of coming from the Pacific Northwest, what it means having Relapse Records behind the band, and—most importantly—where you should buy the album to best support the band directly.

If you’re into dark, heavy music with atmosphere and hooks, this one’s for you.

#SignalsFromMars #Hoaxed #HeavyMetal

Thank you to my patrons:

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive!

Hoaxed / Kat Keo Links

Hoaxed

Official Site: https://www.hoaxedband.com
Bandcamp: https://hoaxed.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoaxedband/

Kat Keo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kat_keo/

Relapse (Album / Store info)

Relapse album page: https://www.relapse.com/pages/hoaxed-death-knocks

Signals From Mars Links

Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SignalsFromMars
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommars
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/signalsfrommars

January 2026 Albums Review Feb 18, 2026

Show notes

Signals From Mars – Episode 442

January 2026 Albums Review

Episode 442 kicks off the 2026 album review season.

Victor is joined by Jeremy (UK) and Ed (Kentucky) to discuss selected hard rock and heavy metal releases from January 2026. The month starts slow following the holidays, but quickly builds momentum with several notable releases across thrash, sludge, symphonic metal, traditional heavy metal, and underground death metal.

Rather than covering everything released, the show focuses on the albums that stood out most to the panel — including both major releases and lesser-known underground records.

Each host shares their personal Album of the Week selections, offering insight into what made those records rise above the rest.

If you’re looking for a curated guide to January’s most talked-about metal releases, Episode 442 delivers exactly that.

Thank You to Our Patrons

Signals From Mars is supported by listeners like you.

Special thanks to:

Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond

Your continued support keeps the show independent and growing.

Join the Patreon community: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Connect with Signals From Mars

Website: https://www.signalsfrommars.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SignalsFromMars

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommars

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/signalsfrommars

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or your preferred podcast platform.

Greyhawk Feb 13, 2026

Show notes

In Episode 441 of Signals From Mars, we’re joined by Seattle heavy metal band Greyhawk to discuss their third full-length album, Warriors Of Greyhawk. Since emerging in 2018, Greyhawk has established themselves as one of the most consistently productive and road-tested bands in modern traditional heavy metal, releasing multiple EPs and full-length albums while refining their sound with each release.

This conversation focuses on process, evolution, and intent rather than surface-level promotion. We explore how the band approaches songwriting over long stretches of time, how creative chemistry evolves with lineup changes, and whether Warriors Of Greyhawk followed a specific vision or revealed itself naturally during its creation.

We also talk about the role of producer Henrik Udd, the importance of bass performance in shaping the album’s identity, and how closely the band collaborated on the album’s striking artwork. Physical media still matters in heavy metal, and Greyhawk shares insight into working with their label to bring Warriors Of Greyhawk to fans on vinyl, CD, and cassette.

The discussion touches on Seattle’s deep and varied musical history, including influences that may not be immediately obvious, and wraps up with practical ways fans can support the band directly and stay connected going forward.

If you’re interested in how modern heavy metal albums are actually made, this episode delivers a thoughtful, in-depth conversation without giving anything away.

🤘 Support Greyhawk

Official Band Links:

Bandcamp: https://greyhawkmetal.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greyhawkmetal
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greyhawkmetal
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/greyhawk

(Purchasing directly from the band is the best way to support them.)

🚀 Follow Signals From Mars

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Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommars
X / Twitter: https://x.com/signalsfrommars

Shout out to my patrons:

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive!

Tailgunner Feb 10, 2026

Show notes

Signals From Mars – Episode 440

On Episode 440 of Signals From Mars, Victor is joined by Bones and Rhea of UK heavy metal band Tailgunner to talk about their new album Midnight Blitz and the road that led them there.

The conversation explores the band’s collaboration with legendary guitarist KK Downing, how that relationship came together naturally, and what it was like having such a hands-on presence involved in shaping the album. Bones and Rhea also discuss the evolution of Tailgunner since their debut Guns For Hire, balancing classic heavy metal influences with their own identity, and the challenges of building a lineup that truly shares the same vision.

The episode also touches on touring, recent shows with Hammerfall, upcoming festival appearances, and what fans can expect when they see Tailgunner live — without giving too much away. It’s a great look at a modern British metal band focused on longevity, growth, and staying true to heavy metal.

🔥 Shout out to my Patrons:

Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive!

🔗 Connect with Signals From Mars:

Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

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🤘 Follow Tailgunner:

Official Website: https://www.tailgunner.co.uk

Bandcamp: https://tailgunner.bandcamp.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailgunner_uk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tailgunneruk

X / Twitter: https://x.com/tailgunner_uk

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tailgunneruk

2025 Albums Countdown Feb 06, 2026

Show notes

Signals From Mars – Episode 439 Fan-Voted 2025 Albums Countdown (Livestream)

In Episode 439 of Signals From Mars, Victor is joined by members of the Signals From Mars community to recap the results of the fan-voted 2025 albums countdown.

Listeners submitted their Top 10 albums of the year, the votes were tallied, and the final rankings were revealed live on air. This episode is driven entirely by the audience — no critics, no editorial lists, just passionate music fans discussing the albums that defined the year for them.

Throughout the episode, the panel reacts to surprises, debates placements, and reflects on what made 2025 such a strong year for hard rock and heavy metal. With 80 albums receiving votes, this countdown highlights the depth, diversity, and vitality of modern rock and metal.

Whether you agree with the final rankings or not, this episode is about discovery, discussion, and celebrating new music — exactly what Signals From Mars is all about.

🎧 No spoilers here — listen in to hear how the countdown unfolds from #10 to #1.

🔥 Shout out to my Patrons:

Steven Sailer

Steve Hoeker

Jeremy Weltman

Mike Jones

Brad Dahl

Mark Strigl

Gabriel Ruiz

Chris Vaglio

Metal Dan

Johan Ederström

Ed Ferguson

Anthony Mackey

Toni Espin

Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive! 🙌

🔗 Connect with Signals From Mars:

Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

Website: https://signalsfrommars.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/signalsfrommars

Twitter / X: https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/

Merch Store: https://signals-from-mars.creator-spring.com/

Podcast Services: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/podcast-services/

Sponsorship & Advertising: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/sponsorship/

December 2025 Albums Review Jan 30, 2026

Show notes

🎸 Signals From Mars – Episode 438 (Livestream Recording) 🎸

Join me tonight with Jeremy and Ed as we dive into the hard rock and metal albums released in December 2025. 🤘 We’ll be breaking down the latest releases, sharing standout tracks, unexpected favorites, and a few strong opinions along the way — from established heavyweights to releases that may have flown under the radar.

Expect debate, surprises, and plenty of passionate music talk! 💬 Jump into the live chat and let us know your thoughts on these December 2025 releases — your input could shape the conversation in real time. Don’t miss it — be part of the live show!

🔥 Shout out to my Patrons: Steven Sailer Steve Hoeker Jeremy Weltman Mike Jones Brad Dahl Mark Strigl Gabriel Ruiz Chris Vaglio Metal Dan Johan Ederström Ed Ferguson Anthony Mackey Toni Espin Sean Richmond

Thank you for being so supportive! 🙌

🔗 Connect with us and be part of the conversation:

Become a Patron: https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars

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Sponsorship: https://www.signalsfrommars.com/sponsorship/