Blowing Smoke with Twisted Rico

On this episode of the podcast, we are joined by MEGG hot off the heels of performing at Warped Tour Long Beach… “MEGG brings a bold, fearless sound for the tomboys, loudmouths, romantics, brats, and every misfit in between. With a voice that channels the raw power of Hayley Williams and the swagger of Gwen Stefani, her music oozes early 2000s nostalgia with a fresh, in-your-face twist”. meggmusic...

Mike Worm joins us to talk about a cool show happening at The C Note in Hull, MA on August 29, featuring Unnatural Axe, The FU’s, Spectacle, and of course—WORM. Known for their relentless energy, raw lyrics, and deep roots in the local scene, WORM has built a loyal following up and down the East Coast. With four records already under their belt, they’re gearing up to release their explosive fifth...

Tyler Pollard joins us from the electrifying Boston-based trio  Robotic Hawks , a band that may have been flying just under your radar — until now. Fresh off the release of their latest EP,  New, Better Things , Tyler takes us on a deep dive into the band’s journey: from their early days cutting their teeth in local clubs to collaborating with studio heavyweights  Benny Grotto  and  Paul Q. Kolder...

Sixteen years ago, acclaimed singer-songwriter Pete Droge set out to find his birth mother—only to discover her obituary. That moment sparked an unexpected and deeply personal journey through loss, identity, illness, and healing. In this moving podcast, Droge shares the story behind  Fade Away Blue , his most autobiographical album to date. Through candid conversation, poetic insight, and intimate...

Paul Rajpal, guitarist for the acclaimed doom metal band Morne, joins us to discuss their latest album,  Engraved With Pain  (Metal Blade Records), and the band's upcoming performance at the Somergloom Festival on August 9 in Somerville, MA. Music The Charms "So Pretty" The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll" Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo Thank you Joe’s Albums, Taang!, and Spectacle Eyeware

Chris Conway returns to the show to discuss the new EP from his band, The Gypsy Moths — a project he also produced. We also dive into a full review of The Dogmatics'  Nowheresville  album, along with plenty of other great conversation. Music The Charms "So Pretty" The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll" Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

In tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, we're revisiting a special episode originally aired on October 8, 2021. In this conversation, Duncan Wilder Johnson and I talk about and debate the legacy of Black Sabbath and reflect on what the band—and Ozzy himself—meant to us personally and musically. Join us as we honor the Prince of Darkness and the band that changed rock forever. Music The Char...

On this episode, we are joined by all three members of the legendary Ape Hangers. At the end of June, we did a zoom interview with Pete Sjostedt, Bob Kiah, and Dennis McCarthy — better known as Ape Hangers — for a fun, free-flowing conversation. These guys are not only amazing musicians but longtime friends and all-around great people. At the time, we were a little vague about what was on the hori...

On this episode we are joined by singer/songwriter Isabella Pombrio—an emerging indie artist forging a unique path in Nashville’s music scene while juggling the demands of college life. Originally from New Jersey, Isabella blends heartfelt songwriting with nostalgic alt-rock influences from the ’90s and early 2000s, crafting a sound that’s both intimate and raw. Whether performing solo acoustic se...

In this episode, we sit down with Ronnie Barnett, bassist and founding member of The Muffs, a cornerstone band in the 90s garage pop-punk scene. Ronnie shares stories from the band's nearly 30-year journey, offering insight into his role in crafting their signature sound. With deep musical roots and a sharp ear for melody, Ronnie helped define an era of punk-pop that still resonates today. Whe...

Join us for a lively episode, recorded live on WMFO, as we're accompanied by former music journalist and musician  Charles Terlino  ( Waylon & Co ) for a musical journey through songs that remind us of summer. Expect a fun tune, some wild stories, offbeat opinions, and plenty of laughs along the way. It's summer nostalgia with a twist! No Yacht Rock allowed? Music The Charms "So P...

The Far Out is on a mission to reignite the flame of Soul Pop—and they’re doing it with style, heart, and undeniable groove. In this episode, we sit down with two of the band’s powerhouse members, Olivia Lowe and Ellie Dolan, for an inside look at the group’s origins, inspirations, and their bold journey to bring back a sound that stirs the soul. Tune in as we explore how The Far Out is blending v...

On this episode, we’re joined by Judy Grunwald and Beth Kaplan of Salem 66, the trailblazing indie rock band formed in Boston in 1981. In a scene that birthed Mission of Burma, The Lemonheads, and Dinosaur Jr., Salem 66 stood out with their fearless, melodic post-punk sound. Over the decade, they released acclaimed records on Homestead—home to Sonic Youth and Big Black—and shared stages with The R...

For our landmark 400th episode, we're thrilled to be joined by the unstoppable Nicole Laurenne — vocalist, keyboardist, and all-around rock 'n' roll force. Nicole is best known as the electrifying frontwoman of The Darts, but her sonic legacy runs deep. From her edgy alter ego Black Viiolet to her foundational work with Phoenix garage rock legends The Love Me Nots, Nicole brings a fier...

Alice Austin returns to the show to talk about her upcoming new album, "Super 8". Alice Austin is a versatile musician and songwriter whose dynamic career spans multiple genres and decades. Originally from Vermont, she relocated to Los Angeles to pursue her music career, bringing with her a rich tapestry of influences and experiences. Austin's musical journey began in the 1990s with the all-female...

Today’s guest is nothing short of a legend. Kevin Kirk joins us to talk about the iconic institution he built:  The Heavy Metal Shop  in Salt Lake City, Utah. If you’ve ever seen that unmistakable skull logo or the words “Peddlin Evil” on a T-shirt, you already know the vibe. Since the 1980s, Kevin’s shop has been a sanctuary for headbangers, punks, and music obsessives—and his merch has become a...

This episode originally aired live on WMFO (Medford, MA) on Saturday, May 24, 2025. In celebration of his birthday, the host took full creative liberty—sharing three of his favorite tracks and reflecting on ten beloved albums (a “No Jive 10”?). Along the way, surprise guests Destiny Costa (with her daughter) and Mike Newman dropped by, adding to the spontaneous and festive atmosphere. Music The Ch...

Punk drummer turned provocative photographer—Dave Naz joins us to talk about his journey from Chemical People and Down By Law to capturing bold, boundary-pushing images that explore sexuality, identity, and gender. Hear how assisting underground legend Richard Kern helped shape his raw, fearless style. Music The Charms "So Pretty" The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll" Produced and...

On this episode we are joined by Michael Alago, a music industry legend with a wild ride to match. From signing Metallica at 24 to working with icons like Nina Simone and White Zombie, his story is one of raw talent, fearless authenticity, and surviving the chaos of rock ‘n’ roll. This episode dives into Alago’s rise from Brooklyn punk kid to major label exec — and the unforgettable life captured...

Part 2 of our conversation with Debbie Southwood-Smith, a seasoned A&R executive with a remarkable career in the music industry. Debbie has played a key role in the success of iconic artists like Uncle Tupelo, Blessid Union of Souls, D Generation, Monster Magnet, Queens of the Stone Age, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. She also shares a rich professional history with our host, having worked together at b...

In this episode, we’re joined by Debbie Southwood-Smith, a veteran of the A&R world with an impressive track record. Over the years, Debbie has worked with iconic artists such as Uncle Tupelo, Blessed Union of Souls, D Generation, Monster Magnet, Queens of the Stone Age, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. She also shares a professional history with our host, having worked together at Giant Records and A...

Buck Johnson  is a seasoned singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer whose soulful ‘Cala-Bama’ sound fuses his Alabama gospel roots with a West Coast rock edge. Best known as the keyboardist and backing vocalist for Aerosmith, Ringo Starr & His All Starr Band, The Hollywood Vampires, and The Joe Perry Project, which recently revamped and has an incredible lineup featuring Chris R...

Nite Bob returns to the show and tells us some incredible stories about everyone from The New York Dolls to Steely Dan to Aerosmith and much more... No dull moments on this one, just good Rock N Roll Stories! “Nite Bob was on the ground floor of live sound in the 70’s. He helped perfect it. When you would go to school the next morning after an Aerosmith concert with ringing in your ears you can th...

In honor of Mike Peters, who passed away on April 29, 2025, we are replaying our fantastic interview with him from 2023. Rest In Peace Mike. Music The Alarm "Whatever" Additional music clips The Charms "So Pretty" The Dogmatics "I Love Rock N Roll" Produced and Hosted by Steev Riccardo

In this episode, we're joined by Peter Cortner—renowned for his iconic role as the frontman of the legendary punk band Dag Nasty. Of course we hit on the "Wig Out At Denkos" and "Field Day" albums. We also talk about Cortner’s really cool new band, Applied Knowledge, who release their debut album in May. “Easily the equal of the Replacements at their best -- and as much a forebear of the Goo Goo D...