Chord Progression

The world can be cruel to musicians. Cancelled shows, expensive tours, other responsibilities in life, can take the fun and enjoyment out of the love that is making music, and it can be tough to get it all back.One Australian band went through the ringer in 2023, and is ready to take 2024 by storm because of one simple reason, they're having fun with their music again.Jayden from Stepson returns to the Chord Progression Podcast for the first time in 3 years! On this fantastic episode, the guys talk all about:The importance Stepson put on having fun with their music following cancelled tours, expensive travel, and a yearning to enjoy their favorite thing in life.Why Stepson amicably split with Sharptone Records to take their music back into their own hands, and do things their own way.What Stepson has in store with their new music for their 2nd album, and why it could be dropping, literally, at any time.This band is a favorite of ours, and you can discover a new favorite of yours by hitting that subscribe butt

There is always a debate about unclean (scream) vocals in rock and metal. Are they good and amplify the song when they are primarily used? Are they bad and remove focus for the song? Is there a right answer?There is no right answer, but we are seeing more bands using unclean screams rising in popularity in the scene, as well as popular culture as well. So when added tastefully, do unclean vocals really work?Tanis from the Pennsylvania post-hardcore band Lives Lost joins the Chord Progression Podcast. On this episode, we dive deep into the music scene with Tenis by talking about:Using screams & unclean vocals in music tastefully to maximize out on impact and overall success of a song, depending on if they are needed or not.Why rock & metal music is booming in the 2020's thanks to people wanting something new, fresh, and new bands delivering on that want.How the revolution in experimentation for rock & metal is currently working, and why fans are driving back to genres that were labeled "dead" 10 ye

Life, relationships, you, are not defined by one single moment. It is a conglomeration of those experiences that make us who we are, and allow beautiful friendships and relationships to prosper for a long time.We found a band that is diving into the external extremes life puts us through, how it can bring us pain & anguish in life & relationships, but how it can also bring us a lot of joy at the exact same time.Joe from the metal band Lightworker joins the Chord Progression Podcast with the brand new album, How the Beautiful decay, releasing on April 19th. On this album, we dive deep into:The band's origin story and how relationships between people are not just defined by one moment, but many moments throughout time.Why the album How the Beautiful Decay dives deep into the external joys and pains that life will throw our way, and how our responses to those moments show ourselves who we are.How Joe's personal struggles with life's tough moments, and expressing them on the album, allow us to connect mor

The idea of the concept album is not a new thing. Many bands have taken us on wild rides and stories of curiosity, self reflection, and rediscovery through ideas of space, fantasy, and fiction.This time we have a band that has completely taken their sound to a new level, with an EP that takes you through a Twilight Zone-style reflection of all you could be, to help you appreciate where you are, and help you further where you can go in life.Brent from the Louisville post-hardcore band Greyhaven joins us on the podcast today! With the release of the new EP, Stereo Grief, releasing on April 12th, and it is going to take you on a ride sonically and thematically. Therefore we dive deep into..How a 1940's, Twilight Zone style short story, and the movie Interstellar formed the concept of Stereo Grief, in a concept of self reflection and actively being able to work for change.Why Greyhaven found sonic freedom on the EP, exploring a heavier side to expand to their already, well rounded, post-hardcore sound.The reason

As an art form, music is meant to be enjoyable and fun. And those bands that have the most fun making their music are the ones that we gravitate towards to always send us into the most positive attitudes.This band has always had fun with their music from the making of it, to the performance of it, and everything in between. And with a new album showing you even more of that, it would be criminal to miss out.Taz from the Chicago pop punk band Belmont joins the Chord Progression Podcast today. Belmont's new album, Liminal, releases on April 12th, and we dive head first into the album discussingHow Belmont doesn't take themselves too seriously when making their music, leading to high quality, energetic, and naturally fun flowing tracks as shown on all of Liminal.The creation of lead single SSX Trickmont, why is sounds like it should be in SSX Tricky, and why it was inspired by Tony Hawk's Underground.Why the band is a must-see live, and how Kevin's idea of a demolition derby mosh pit may just be something Belmon

Whoever said hip hop influenced deathcore could not work clearly never met this band, or heard their music.If it was you, well sorry for calling you out. If it was not you, well let us show you what hip hop inspired deathcore is all about so you can make yp your own opinion.David & Dustin from the North Carolina hip hop inspired deathcore band Filth join the Chord Progression Podcast today with their new album, Southern Hostility, releasing on April 5th. Let's get you into the band as we talk aboutHow the band wrote Southern Hostility, expanding their sound beyond just being a heavy band, getting more hip hop and other influences into the mix.Highlighting a few tracks on the new album that are must-listens, and why you should see them live for "Smashy Smashy Fun Time."The funniest idea for a deathcore band, the Rollin by Limp Bizkit cover idea.Come and discover a great band with us, and discover more great bands with us by hitting Subscribe.Find Filth Online:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/filthncInsta

One of the heaviest and most manic bands to come out of Australia in recent memory continues to grow seemingly with every new idea, every new tour, every new song, and with a brand new album coming out on April 5th, what so you expect?Do you expect the band to experiment more and really try something new, or do you expect them to do more of the same hard hitting fast pace style that has made them well known in metal? Well, the answer to both questions is YES!Lochie from Alpha Wolf joins us on the Chord Progression Podcast today. With the band releasing their 3rd album, Half Living Things, on April 5th, we take this episode to talk about:How Alpha Wolf made half living things with more of the heavy hitting sounds and fast paced riffs you want, while expanding their sound further beyond what you thought was possible.The song Sucks 2 Suck and just how Ice-T collaborated on the song with the band.Reflecting on the massive growth Alpha Wolf has seen since the pandemic, and how this is just the beginning for the ba

It has been said that a band really doesn't fully discover their sound until their 3rd album. It may not be 100% true, but it is something many people look at.We have a German band returning to the podcast for the 3rd time, on their 3rd album, and they say they have found their sound that is truly them, and allows for expansion in the future. And... we agree.Robin, Lela, and Vale from Venues join the podcast for the band's 3 appearance. The band's new album, Transience, releases on March 28th, so we dive into the album talking aboutHow Venues fully discovered their sound on this album, going with more of a modern metal style that still incorporates heavier metalcore elements, and more sonically flowing vocals to maximum effect.The final song Coming Home, and why the band has not been able to get through the song without crying.Why the band has continued to grow every year, coming closer to a potential US tour. And the greatest piano idea you have ever heard.The best way to know bands that are going to be the

This is the 500th episode of the Chord Progression Podcast! With such a milestone, we needed to find the best guest possible to celebrate this momentous episode!We could have picked a giant artist, but we wanted to go with the best, a favorite of all time, and one that we have been behind since the early days. You have watched them grow with us, and now, they are here once again.Jonathan Norris of Kingdom Collapse returns to the podcast for the 6th time, and for episode #500. But of course, our focus is on the band, and we talk aboutHow the band has formed an "Unbreakable" bond with its fans over the years, all based on the genuine messages in the music they create.Why they have released music in single form as an independent band since their inception, and how it has impacted the band's writing process.Remembering and having a tribute to a man that helped out Kingdom Collapse tremendously, as well as the podcast, Joe Alfano.Thank you for supporting us. 500 episodes down, many more to go. Hit subscribe to sta

When a band jumps from record label to record label, the typical stereotype is not the best for the band. But what about a band that graduates from small developmental label, to a larger developmental label, to a major label, in under 3 years? That is success that needs to be noticed.Couple that with a brand new album, an evolving sound around their core roots, and the will and tenacity to try and become the next breakout band following in the footsteps of Spiritbox, Bad Omens, and Sleep Token, and you have an emerging powerhouse on your hands.Patrick and Hayden from the metalcore band If Not For Me rejoin the Chord Progression Podcast for the 3rd time, right before the release of their second album, Everything You Wanted. On this episode, we go deep intoThe growth of If Not For Me starting with a small developmental label to signing with Thriller Records in the span of only a few years.How Everything You Wanted is connecting with fans through its central meaning of reflection and refusing to be taken advanta

One of the biggest metal bands out of the UK today, and they are the most "punk rock" they have ever been. Sounds weird right? Well let us explain.This band is doing things with more of a DIY approach, creating music their way with the help of the SLEEPS SOCIETY fans, which allows the band to experiment freely knowing that the fans will be behind it because the message is still delivered. And with album #6 on the way, it is poised to be the band's biggest yet.Loz from While She Sleeps joins the Chord Progression Podcast! With the new album "Self Hell" ready to be released on March 29th, the best way to preview the album is right here. On this episode, we discuss.How the singles from Self Hell show an evolution of While She Sleeps, and why the fans are loving it from the increased musicality, and the message of the album thus far.How the band's SLEEPS SOCIETY of fans have helped the band get to where they are today, and create Self Hell the best possible way for the band.The small easter eggs to look for on Se

Coming up with a sound that is uniquely your own is a rare thing in heavy music. The bands that are able to succeed in it always find success whether it is in a massive cult following, or becoming the next trail blazers in their respective genres.Right now in Germany, there is a band that is blending modern heavy music and electronics in a way that sounds so complex, yet is so simple, that they have achieved that unique sound. But how far will they go?Severin and Bastian from the unique modern heavy music band AVRALIZE join the Chord Progression Podcast. With their debut album FREAKS set to release, get into the band with us throughDiscovering how the band decided to take writing seriously after working together since they were young, and how working with the proper producer created the best sound.Finding out why FREAKS brings spice to modern heavy music, and why the song Overdose is the perfect summary of their sound as a whole.The unique stylings of AVRALIZE, and how they created this one of a kind sound.Th

The world of metalcore has a large number of emerging stars coming our way this decade. A great deal of that can be attributed to the successful writing and mindful inspiration bands underwent during the pandemic.We still have more bands coming up in metalcore that are taking their post-pandemic music into new creative heights, and this progressive band might just be another one worth checking out.Minneapolis metalcore band By The Thousands join the Chord Progression Podcast, with a new EP "The Descent" releasing on March 15th. On this episode we discussThe inspiration behind The Descent and what inspirations the band took from the past 4 years to create this.What the upcoming run with Oceano means for the band, and what you can expect from the band live.Why it is important to support local music, and why a conscious effort needs to be made on all of our parts to do so.A great metalcore band for you to get into and get behind., so tap that subscribe button to not miss out on another episode.Find By The Thousa

Punk rock has always had a history of being brash, standing up against oppressive and tyrannical ideologies & philosophies, as well as giving a voice to those who go against the political norm, in an up-front manner.Today, there is a British band doing just that with their music, refusing to pull a punch, giving us a glimpse into the plights of current-day British society. But, does it resonate with people all across the world? In this case, ABSOLUTELY!Ben & Eddie from the British punk band Kid Kapichi come to the Chord Progression Podcast for a short, to the point (very punk rock), interview before they release their new album, There Goes The Neighbourhood, on Mach 15th. We dive deep into:How the album bluntly paints a picture of the experiences of British society post-Brexit, and why being so overt lyrically successfully works in this case.Why the instrumental composition allows changes to the punk rock formula that gives each song a unique mental connection to the stories being told.The reason fans

We have seen some hip hop artists cross over and connect very well with rock and metal fans. We have seen it from Tech N9ne, Wu Tang Clan, and more. But why are some able to make that crossover?The sound and genres may not be the same, but there is something in the music that connects with fans across all genres. So what is that something? SUBSTANCE.We are pleased to have EKOH joins us on the Chord Progression Podcast today. On today's episode, EKOH goes deep with us on.Why the substance in the music has allowed him to successfully cross over his music from the hip hop world to rock and metal, with inspiration from AFI.The reason EKOH will not ever stick with the same style of music, always looking to expand his songwriting and storytelling abilities.EKOH's connection to shoes during live shows, and how that lead to a VANS collaboration on a signature show.EKOH crossed over well to rock and metal, touring twice now with From Ashes To New. Cross over to new artists with us today by subscribing to the Chord Pro

Making an entire thematic change from one album to the next is never an easy thing. It requires a lot of focus, mindset shifting, and songwriting changes to make this thematic shift.But what if there was a band that did that to show a story of breaking through the crap in life, growth out of depression, and owning your past to grow better in the present? Sounds like you would want to check out a band that did that right? Well...Jules from German metalcore band SETYØURSAILS joins the Chord Progression Podcast today with the new album, Bad Blood, coming out on April 12th. On this episode, we dive intoHow SETYØURSAILS transitioned focus from the topic of depression on Nightfall, to a topic of owning your past and empowerment on Bad Blood.Why writing to your own tragedy in life can be an incredibly impactful form of self-therapy, that many of its need.The reason Jules doesn't listen to new music, in order to maximize on her song writing ability.More great bands keep coming to the Chord Progression Podcast. Hit th

The sophomore album is always seen as a make or break album for any artist. Following their debut, will the artist expand their sound? Venture into new territory? Experiment further? Depending on the outcome and fan reception, it can make or break the artist.In 2024, one band's sophomore album does all of that, while also staying grounded in their core sound. But does it make or break album #2? This time, IT MAKES IT!James from Kill The Lights returns to the Chord Progression Podcast with the band's second album, Death Melodies, releasing on March 8th. We dive deep into the album by:Showing a writing style of every member together, as well as writing in small groups, helped the band expand further on what is the core sound of Kill the Lights.Sharing the 3 songs both James and Kevin pick as their favorites, and why an album this expansive means everyone has a different favorite 3.Discussing why rock & metal artists that are trying something new like Bad Omens and Sleep Token are reviving the genres in pop

Imagine finding a band with the high energy style of Beartooth, but then finding out that their music is even heavier. Pretty cool right?But what if we also told you that the heavier, high energy style and sound was also mixed and experimented with to convey deeper and grander emotions normally reserved for more melodic sounds. You would want to check it out right? Well, we found it for you.Simon and Jeffery from the German metalcore band Defocus join the Chord Progression Podcast. Discovering a new band like this through this episode will include:How Defocus created a sound of high energy heaviness, along where the influence for this sound all came from.A dive into the band's new album, there is a place for me on earth, and how its themes contributed to mixing more emotional tones and programming into their high energy sound to create something more unique.The theme of there is a place for me on earth, and why its contemplative nature was chosen.You know you want some more high energy metalcore in your life.

How does a band who hit it big because of the Eurovision contest, and became a major player in the European live scene with their Violent Pop sound, evolve into a worldwide phenomenon?The answer: With an album that was built with the live show in mind, and to create a live experience that will have fans catching a severe case of FOMO of they miss out.The guys Joel and Miko from Blind Channel return to the Chord Progression Podcast. With the new album, Exit Emotions, set to release on March 1st, discover more about the album when we talk about:Why the band wrote the album with the live show as the main focus, to evolve their sound and amplify on the live experience.Certain songs to check out including Where's The Exit and a special song featuring From Ashes To New.What the band learned from playing 240+ live shows in 2 years, and how that impacted more of a pop song structure on the album.Violent Pop is growing, Blind Channel is growing, and hit subscribe so you do not miss to on the ride.Find Blind Channel On

Lyricism in music is essentially poetry in action. Audiences are able to feel the creative construct of the lyrics, and feel the emotion of that poetry through the instrumentation.When artists take the literary concepts of poetry and employ them in their music, we get songs that can be deep, catchy, and take us on the strongest emotional journeys possible.Chaney from the Dallas based alt rock band House Parties joins the Chord Progression Podcast today! This episode dives deep intoThe power of poetry and its concepts in lyric writing to create emotionally charged songs that audiences will be able to emotionally follow with ease.That time House Parties played a set in a literal cave thanks to the Is For Lovers Fest.A last minute opportunity to play 8123 day with The Maine, and the importance of taking opportunity when it comes for you.Discover more bands, moments, and inspirations like this by hitting the subscribe button. Never miss another episode.Find House Parties Online:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/