Host Ray Harkins dives deep with creators of independent culture from musicians, artists and other interesting people to find out what inspires them, how they came to be and many other unexpected places.
In this episode, we sit down with Geert Van Der Velde, best known for his time fronting the influential hardcore band Shai Hulud. Geert shares insights from his journey in the world of heavy music, reflecting on the band’s lasting impact and the philosophies that have shaped his life and art. From exploring nihilism and the role it’s played in his worldview, to the importance of taking chances and embracing the DIY ethos, ...
In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Kirby, frontman of Texas-based metalcore heavyweights, Fit For A King. Since their formation in 2007, the band has carved out a place at the forefront of modern metalcore with their crushing riffs, soaring choruses, and relentless touring schedule. Ryan opens up about how the genre has evolved over the last decade, from its underground roots to its current mainstream momentum, and how...
In this episode, we sit down with Tim Williams, frontman of the groundbreaking Long Island band Vision of Disorder. We dig into the band's rise from local legends to Ozzfest veterans, the intensity of their early shows, and the moments that made VOD a pillar of heavy music in the late '90s and early 2000s. Tim also opens up about life outside the stage—his work in carpentry, staying grounded, and what it means to build som...
In this episode, we sit down with Taylor McLam—guitarist of the influential post-hardcore band Orange 9mm and creative force behind Fountainhead—to trace a career that bridges underground grit and mainstream polish. Taylor shares vivid memories from the heyday of Warped Tour in the '90s, when Orange 9mm brought their explosive energy to a new generation of punk and hardcore kids. We dig into what it meant to be part of tha...
In this episode, we’re joined by Aaron Dalbec of Bane for a thoughtful conversation about growing up in the suburbs, staying true to yourself, and finding purpose beyond the band that defined so much of your life. Aaron opens up about carving out an identity outside of Bane, how the hardcore ethos still guides him, and why doing what you love—regardless of expectations—still matters. Whether you found Bane in the '90s or j...
In this episode, we sit down with Mark Rose, frontman of beloved Chicago rock band Spitalfield, for a deep dive into the legacy of the band, the evolution of the scene, and his continued passion for making music. Rising out of the early 2000s emo and pop-punk surge, Spitalfield became a cornerstone of the Chicago music community—earning a loyal fanbase through honest songwriting, relentless touring, and their time on Victo...
In this episode, we sit down with Ken Susi—guitarist for metalcore pioneers Unearth and a key force behind the scenes at Fishman Music—for a conversation that pulls no punches. Ken talks about what it’s like to never quite fit the mold, how being a loud mouth has both helped and hurt him over the years, and why he wouldn’t have it any other way. From tour stories to gear talk, and moments of real self-reflection, Ken opens...
In this episode, we’re joined by Jimmy Stadt, frontman of the beloved post-hardcore band Polar Bear Club, for a conversation that traces the band’s journey from the heart of Rochester, NY to stages around the world. Jimmy reflects on the band’s whirlwind early days—how they started fast, caught unexpected momentum, and found themselves navigating a rapidly changing landscape in the hardcore and punk scenes.
We talk about th...
In this episode, we’re joined by Troy Lusk, the founder and booking agent behind Tour Peachy, a boutique agency that’s redefining what it means to stay independent in the live music world. Troy walks us through his journey from fan to agent—breaking into the business the hard way, learning by doing, and eventually launching his own agency with a clear vision: keep it small, stay hands-on, and take the kind of risks that bu...
In this episode, we talk with Jensen Ward, guitarist/vocalist of the legendary powerviolence duo Iron Lung, about the band’s uncompromising path through the underground music world. Since forming in the early 2000s, Iron Lung has built a reputation for their blistering sound, minimalist lineup, and relentless work ethic—carving out a space where intensity and intention go hand in hand.
Jensen dives into the origins of Iron ...
In this episode, we’re joined by Aaron Marsh from the beloved indie/emo band Copeland for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation. Aaron reflects on the band’s evolution, from their early days crafting sweeping, emotional records to becoming a mainstay in the scene known for their lush arrangements and deeply personal lyrics. He opens up about the whirlwind years when Copeland played nearly 600 shows in just two years, ...
In this episode, we sit down with Maik Weichert, guitarist and founding member of the legendary German metal band Heaven Shall Burn, for a powerful conversation about longevity in extreme music, the stark contrasts between touring in the US and Europe, and the band's enduring commitment to veganism and activism.
Maik shares insights from over two decades of pushing sonic and ideological boundaries—from maintaining creative ...
In this episode, Dan Campbell from The Wonder Years joins for a thoughtful, laid-back conversation about the band’s evolution over the years. He reflects on the idea of “passing the torch” — supporting younger artists and recognizing how the scene has shifted since TWY first got started. Dan also dives into the emotional weight of playing live shows and why those moments still matter so much to him and the band. A big part...
In this episode, we’re joined by Luke Bentham, the magnetic frontman of The Dirty Nil, for a conversation that captures the raw spirit and driving force behind one of Canada’s most electrifying rock bands. Luke opens up about life on the road, the band’s unshakable chemistry, and how their no-compromise approach keeps their sound sharp and their performances unforgettable. We discuss the best veggie burger ever, the impact...
Today, I’m joined by Nick Brooks, the vocalist of It Dies Today and Frozen Ground.
The band played a major role in shaping the early 2000s metalcore scene, with albums like The Caitiff Choir becoming staples of the genre. Nick’s voice and energy helped define their sound and we spent a lot of time together on the road in the early 2000's so it was logical, since their return, I had to have him on.
We discuss Buffalo, ident...
For over two decades, Rocky Votolato has been a defining voice in the indie-folk and emo scenes, known for his raw lyricism, haunting melodies, and a body of work that’s both deeply personal and universally resonant. Now, the Seattle-based songwriter is entering a bold new chapter with Suzzallo, a collaborative project that marks a departure from his solo roots. Blending atmospheric textures with the emotional core he's kn...
Is 90's alt rock mixed with nu-metal your thing? It should be and if you are looking for that fix, that's where Bleed comes in. I fell in love with these guys about a year or so ago when the algorithm lords blessed me and been curious about them ever since. Fortunately, my curiosity was satiated when I had this conversation with Ryan from said band. We discussed so many things including the Texas scene, the importance of N...
We all know midwest emo, but do we all know Giants Chair? If you don't, let this be a sign that you need to familiarize yourself now! The awesome label Spartan Records have re-released their seminal LP "Red & Clear" that's been out of print for years and to celebrate that, I have Scott Hobart who is the vocalist and guitarist of the band. We get into it all including how sick the bands packaging always was, their tight...
A tried and true screamo hero of mine, Billy Werner is on the podcast this week. He is the lead vocalist from the reunited Saetia and also sang for Hot Cross. He's a true gem of a human and happy to bring you this conversation in which we discuss his formative time at NYU, ABC No Rio and playing with Men's Recovery Project. Saetia is releasing their first new music since coming back on Deathwish, so make sure to order that...
SET THE STAGE, we have Marshall from The Warriors hanging out with us today on the show. The Warriors are from Tehachapi, CA and started playing together in 2002. They quickly captured the attention of many with their interesting blend of Rage Against the Machine meets 108 style hardcore and were extremely active throughout most of the 2000's. The band is back with a new LP, their first since 2019, entitled "Burn Yourself ...
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!