The Rock and Metal Profs

Episode 70: The Scorpions Part II

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 20:12:49 +0000

The Profs chat recent rock and metal news, and they examine the Scorpions' records from 1984's "Love at First Sting" to 2022's "Rock Believer." Dr. Lewis takes the lead on this one! We thank all our listeners for taking the time to download and listen. We appreciate you!

Episode 69: The Scorpions, Part 1

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 31 Jan 2026 19:32:56 +0000

It's time to ROCK YOU LIKE A HURRICANE! Undeniably the greatest hard rock/metal band in German history, the Scorpions heralded career spans 60 years! Few bands have made a greater impact on the history of modern rock/metal music than the Scorps. The Profs look at the early history of the band as it coalesced in postwar West Germany and how Rudolph Schenker, Klaus Meine, Uli Jon Roth, Michael Schenker, Herman Rarebell, Francis Buchholz and Matthias Jabs sought to reshape the world's perception of Germany and Germans. Court and Matt examine postwar German history, the band's early albums and touring, and their rise to fame (and controversy) in the 1970s and 80s. Part one of two episodes. As always, we are so grateful to our listeners who download, listen and recommend the show to others! Thank you!

Episode 68: 2025 Year in Review and the State of Rock and Metal in 2026

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 01:12:29 +0000

Court and Matt are back with their admittedly fragmentary best of 2025 concerts and albums. The Profs also discuss recent rock and metal news, and the state of the genre in 2026. Megadeth, Anthrax, Queensryche, Accept, Ratt, Slaughter, L.A. Guns, Iron Maiden, Ghost, Helloween, Ozzy, Wings of Steel, Alice Cooper, KISS, Phantom Spell, VV and Peter Criss were all topics covered, and more! Look for new episodes coming soon!

Episode 67: Favorite Drummers and Percussionists with R. Alan Siler

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 22:47:27 +0000

Court and Matt have guested on R. Alan Siler's podcast "Modern Musicology" on multiple occasions, and we thought it was time to turn the tables! On our final episode of 2025 the Profs interview the busiest man in America -- drummer, librarian, author, performer, music connoisseur, and host of multiple podcasts -- R. Alan Siler. Alan has performed in many bands, including tribute acts covering KISS, David Bowie, Heart and Kate Bush. He's performed in orchestras, folk groups, and jazz ensembles. He is the owner and editor of kOZMIC Press, LLC. He also hosts multiple podcasts, including our personal favorite, Modern Musicology. We asked Alan to explain the difference between drummers and percussionists, and to give us his personal favorites and most influential drummers. Spoiler -- We'll be talking about Neil Peart and Eric Carr quite a bit!

Our thanks to all of our listeners and friends who support us each year by downloading and listening to every episode of RAMP. We do the show for you! Our heartfelt gratitude for taking the time to listen in! Happy Holidays!

Episode 66: Episode 66: Ghost -- The Profs are Back!!!

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:35:22 +0000

Well, we decided to bring the show back after a 3-year hiatus. On the eve of Halloween, what better way to celebrate our return to podcast glory than with the ultimate horror band, GHOST! Court and Matt, with shows to follow as time permits. No social media presence this time, but you can email us at Therockprofs@gmail.com. Welcome back, and as always, thanks so much for your listenership and support! Now, LET THE RITUAL BEGIN!

Episode 65: The Evolution of Rock and Metal

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 01:02:08 +0000

The Profs discuss the origins and evolution of rock and metal!

Episode 64: The Sunset Strip in the 1980s

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 01:00:53 +0000

Oh the excess and bombast of the Sunset Strip in the late-70s and 1980s! The Profs discuss the epicenter of rock and metal in the 70s-80s as the Sunset Strip in L.A. became ground-zero for some of the greatest rock and metal acts in American history.

Episode 63: KISS in the early-80s

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:57:03 +0000

Yes, we know we talk about KISS too often. However, in our defense, those early-80s KISS albums were SPECTACULAR. Court and Matt discuss the iconic albums "Creatures of the Night", "Music from the Elder", "Lick it Up" and "Animalize."

Episode 62: Rock and Metal Music Festivals

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:52:03 +0000

Oh the glory of the all-day music festival. US Fest, Ozzfest, Louder than Life, Wacken and Hellfest. So many festivals and so many bands! The Profs discuss the pros and cons of rock and metal music festivals, and cover some of the best and worst ones they've attended.

Episode 61: Podcast Producer Tim Williamson Takes over RAMP

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:49:14 +0000

In this special episode of RAMP, our podcast producer and colleague Tim Williamson takes over the show. We talk about whatever he wants to talk about!

Episode 60: Metallica in the 90s and Beyond

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:46:36 +0000

Yeah, we've heard it all before. After "...And Justice for All", Metallica became a different band, "sold out", and went mainstream. Early Metallica fans in particular love to condemn Metallica in the 1990s as the band who let them down. The Profs dispel the myths and do their level best to objectively assess Metallica's catalog in the 1990s and beyond.

Episode 59: KISS in the 1980s and beyond

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:43:09 +0000

KISS fans are a devoted bunch, and much of their love for the band is contingent upon when they started listening to them. For Matt, KISS in the 1970s were at their zenith. However, for slightly younger fans like Court, those 80s albums hold a special place. Dr. Lewis shines in this one, talking about the non-make-up years, the brief tenure of guitarists Mark St. John and Vinnie Vincent, the percussive mastery of Eric Carr, the guitar wizardry of Bruce Kulick, and the new direction KISS took in the 80s to attain a level of success that few could have imagined just a few years prior.

Episode 58: Guns & Roses: Use Your Illusion, AKA "Court's Delusion"

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:37:39 +0000

This week the Profs discuss one of the more controversial album releases in American music history, "Use Your Illusion I and II." Many rock fans may not remember that Guns & Roses did something no band had ever done in 1991 -- They released two double studio albums on the same day! Heralded by some rock fans as the answer to glam metal and the emerging grunge scene, some GNR fans were not impressed, Dr. Lewis among them. Matt and Court discuss the albums, the tracks, and attempt to unpack Dr. Lewis's thinly-veiled contempt for these records. Does he love these albums or does he hate them? Even he isn't sure!

Episode 57: The best albums of 2022

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:30:55 +0000

The Profs discuss some of the best rock and metal music offerings of 2022.

Episode 56: Listener Questions, part 2

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:29:46 +0000

Dr. Lewis and Matt take questions from the RAMP audience and discuss. Part 2 of 2 episodes.

Episode 55: Listener Questions, part 1

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:29:02 +0000

Dr. Lewis and Matt take questions from the RAMP audience and discuss. Part 1 of 2 episodes.

Episode 54: The Meaning of Metallica with author William Irwin

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:27:45 +0000

The Rock and Metal Profs interview Professor of Philosophy, literary critic and heavy metal scholar William Irwin from King's College in Pennsylvania. His new book "The Meaning of Metallica: Ride the Lyrics" is a detailed breakdown examining the history and philosophy of the most influential metal band in American history, Metallica.

Episode 53: Album Review: DIO -- Holy Diver Deluxe

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:23:59 +0000

The profs discuss the release of the newly remixed and remastered Holy Diver album by Ronnie James Dio.

Episode 52: RIOT: The Band that should have been massive in the U.S. and abroad

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 23:37:30 +0000

New York-based band RIOT enjoyed modest success in the late-1970s and early-80s. They grew a die-hard following, even as they evolved into one of the few American Power Metal bands of the 1980s. However, line-up changes, tragedy, and a few ill-fated marketing decisions limited the band's appeal and commercial success. Undaunted, RIOT continued to produce quality music, and despite the odds they simply would not be denied their place in the American rock and metal pantheon.

Episode 51: Interview with Black Sabbath Vocalist Tony Martin

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 23:31:59 +0000

The Tony Martin-era of Black Sabbath is much celebrated amongst fans of the band. Following the departure of Ronnie James Dio in 1982, Sabbath sought out veteran leadership in the form of Deep Purple vocalist Ian Gillan. That line-up produced one very good album, but it was not to last. When Gillan left the band, Iommi and company found stability, talent and tremendous writing chops with British vocalist Tony Martin. Mr. Martin was generous in agreeing to meet with the Profs prior to the re-release of the Martin-era collection on vinyl and CD. Martin covers his time with the band, and even offers up a few colorful anecdotes of his time in Sabbath in the 80s and 90s .

Episode 50: Black Sabbath: The Tony Martin Era

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:41:07 +0000

In the 1980s and 90s Black Sabbath released 5 outstanding studio records (and a great live one) featuring British vocalist Tony Martin. After the departure of Ian Gillan after just one album and an ill-fated Tony Iommi solo record featuring Glenn Hughes on vocals, Sabbath turned to Tony Martin, a virtual unknown. Martin's incredible vocal range and strong song-writing skills gave Sabbath a sound and stability that had been lacking for several years. His two tenures in the band produced some of Sabbath's finest work, which fans continue to discover even today. Court and Matt investigate the band's history with Martin as frontman, and discuss the catalog and best offerings on each album.

Episode 49: POWER METAL!!!

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:32:16 +0000

Time to put those fists in the air! German metalers Helloween have the distinction of being one of the first (if not the very first) Power Metal bands, but what exactly is Power Metal? How does it differ from speed, thrash, and just plain-old heavy metal? Were German metal outfit ACCEPT a power metal band? What's with all the power metal bands from Germany? How and why did American rockers RIOT go power metal in the 1980s? The Profs do their best to unpack the facts, dispel the myths, and celebrate the greatest power metal acts in this important sub-genre.

Episode 48: Tesla: The Early Years

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:26:38 +0000

Few bands made a bigger impact in the 1980s than Sacramento rockers Tesla. When "Mechanical Resonance" hit the stores, fans compared them to Aerosmith, but they forged a style and sound all their own that shaped the American rock sound for decades. Metallica loved them, girls adored them, and even hardcore metal fans had to admit that they were the perfect blend of hard rock, classic riffs, grit and melody. Go take your "Edison's Medicine" and listen to the Pod!

Episode 47: Listeners Sound Off Which Version of the Band was Better?

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:20:07 +0000

We all know that AC/DC and Iron Maiden reached new commercial heights with replacement vocalists, but were versions 2.0 better than the original? Was Van Halen a better band with DLR or Sammy? Was Black Sabbath better with DIO or Ozzy? Jake or Zakk? The listeners sounded off, we listened, and we offer our own insight in this fun themed episode!

Episode 46: Epic Album Trios: The Scorpions

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:14:11 +0000

In this very special edition of RAMP, Matt interviews childhood friend and long-time Scorpions fan Bruce Miller. They discuss the classic album triumvirate of Love Drive, Animal Magnetism and Blackout from the German forefathers of metal, The Scorpions.

Episode 45: Women in Rock and Metal: Part II

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:09:05 +0000

Court and Matt examine the contributions and monumental impact of women in Rock and Metal in the 90s and 2000s. The 21st century is a brave new world for women in rock and metal, and it is about time! So many great front-women in rock, and don't get us started on the great guitar work of shredders like Nita Strauss, Orianthi, Nikki Stringfield and Alyssa Day! Let's hear it for the ladies!

Episode 44: Women in Rock and Metal: Part I

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:28:43 +0000

This week the Profs discuss the incredible contributions of women who Rock! In the 60s, 70s and 80s rock and metal was a boys club. However, there were a number of trailblazers who had the chops, talent, determination and grit to bring their best in the studio and on stage every time. Court and Matt talk about the glass ceiling in rock and metal, the ladies who shattered it, and the lasting legacy of women who simply would not be denied their place in music history.

Episode 43: Ozzy Osbourne: Part II -- the Jake and Zakk Years

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:50:59 +0000

In part 2, the Profs look at the incredible work that Ozzy produced with Jake E. Lee and Zakk Wylde in the 80s and 90s.

Episode 42: Ozzy Osbourne: Part I

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:46:47 +0000

The Madman is back! Matt and Dr. Lewis research the career and legacy of the great Ozzy Osbourne. The Profs analyze his time in Black Sabbath, his break with the band, Sharon Arden's (Osbourne's) role in putting Ozzy back in the mainstream, the Satan Panic, the death of Randy Rhoads, and the Ozman's thunderous impact on rock and metal.

Episode 41: Foo Fighters

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:41:54 +0000

By Request, the Profs examine the history, impact and legacy of the Foo Fighters. Friend to the show and long-time supporter Greg Hill in Escondido California suggested the Foo Fighters, and we loved the idea!

Episode 40: Alice Cooper Part II

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:39:12 +0000

The Profs handle Alice Cooper's later catalog, history, and legacy.

Episode 39: Bonus Episode: Court interviews Cello The Black Pearl

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:36:53 +0000

Dr. Lewis interviews Detroit's Cello "Tha Black Pearl" in this bonus pod.

Episode 38: Alice Cooper

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:33:39 +0000

This week Dr. Court Lewis gets to talk about one of his favorite artists, the legendary Alice Cooper. The master of shock rock, Alice's storied career was fraught with controversy, alcoholism, chicken abuse, and a religious awakening. Court is in his element, and Matt is just along for the ride!

Episode 37: The Best Bands and Albums of 2021

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:30:05 +0000

Court and Matt discuss the bests albums and artists of 2021.

Episode 36: Van Halen: The David Lee Roth Era

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:21:45 +0000

Everybody Wants Some! Has there ever been a more impactful and transformative band than Van Halen? When Eddie, Alex, Michael and DLR hit the Los Angeles scene in the late-1970s, it was a seismic shift in music. A young Eddie Van Halen showed that whatever people might have thought was possible (or impossible) on the guitar, they were wrong. The most complete rock guitar player of all time, within months of the band's debut release, there were hundreds of young guitar players trying to figure out what he was playing, copying his techniques, and doing their best Eddie impersonations. This week the Profs give Eddie and the boys in VH the full treatment.

Episode 35: System of a Down

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:15:06 +0000

System of a Down are a band that tackled serious issues. Their outspoken criticism of Turkey's government and the Armenian Genocide is well-documented. But what some casual listeners may not know is that they are also an incredibly talented quartet -- gifted songwriters and musicians. When they hit the music scene in the late-1990s, their crushing rhythms, frenetic energy, and Armenian-inspired melodies pulverized listeners. The thinking man's band, love them or hate them, no one can deny their brilliance and their influence.

Episode 34: Judas Priest: the 1990s and 2000s (Episode 3 of 3)

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 15:56:25 +0000

The Profs examine the tumultuous 1990s and how Judas Priest reinvented when Halford left the band. Like most metal acts in the 90s, JP struggled to maintain legitimacy and their fanbase. Record companies moved on, but the band forged ahead. With Halford returning to the band in the early 2000s, the band produced a string of incredible albums and proved their staying power, resiliency and determination. Their artistic talents were as strong as ever. Fans returned, and once again Priest sold out arenas and headlined the biggest music festivals in the world. Some 50 years on, their legacy is unparalleled in rock and metal. Episode 3 of 3.

Episode 33: Judas Priest: The 1980s

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 15:50:01 +0000

When 1982's "Screaming for Vengeance" hit the U.S. and England, it was a smash. Up until that point, the Birmingham metal outfit had modest success, particular in the U.S. when they opened for KISS in 1979. However, "Screaming..." placed JP alongside the greatest rock and metal acts of the decade. With fame came infamy however, and Priest was not immune to the "Satanic Panic" and the religious alarmism of the 80s. It all came to a head when tragically, two Judas Priest fans attempted to take their lives while listening to JP songs. A lawsuit followed, and Heavy Metal went on trial in the U.S. The Profs unpack it all on this 2nd episode in a 3 episode series of the metal giants, Judas Priest!

Episode 32: Judas Priest: the 1970s - Episode 1 of 3

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 01:54:54 +0000

The Profs mine the data to present the history and philosophy of heavy metal progenitors Judas Priest. Like their fellow Birmingham mates in Black Sabbath, Judas Priest deserve to be placed alongside Sabbath as the founding fathers of heavy metal. From the start, Priest blazed their own path, creating a sound and style that has been often emulated but never mastered. With Rob Halford's haunting and emotional vocals and 3-octave range, Glenn Tipton and KK Downing's twin guitar attack and founding member Ian Hill holding it all down on bass, Priest have produced some of the greatest music in any genre. This week, the 1970s.

Episode 31: Rock N Pod Interviews: Vinnie Appice, Producer Toby Wright and Tora Tora

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 01:45:10 +0000

More interviews from Rock N Pod August 2022. Matt and Court interview legendary drummer Vinnie Appice of Black Sabbath and DIO, Producer Toby Wright (Alice In Chains, Metallica) and Memphis rockers Tora Tora.

Episode 30: Rock and Pod Interviews: Resist and Bite and Pamela Des Barres

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 01:41:37 +0000

Court and Matt interview members of the rock outfit "Resist and Bite" (featuring Tommy Skeoch of Tesla) and legendary rock muse and groupie Pamela Des Barres.

Episode 29: Vinnie Vincent

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 01:35:51 +0000

Vinnie Vincent has the distinction of being one of the most beloved, reviled and criticized rock artists of the last 40 years. When he hit the Los Angeles scene he had modest success writing and performing musical scores for TV shows. Hired by KISS to replace founding guitarist Ace Frehley in the early-80s, fans were ecstatic with the new musical direction and more complex guitar arrangements. Much to the chagrin of KISS fans, Vincent's time in KISS came to an abrupt end as quickly as it started. Subsequently, VV became an enigma and quite reclusive until he resurfaced in the 2020s. The Profs investigate what happened and why, as well as Vinnie's legacy in the band.

Episode 28: Kansas

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sun, 24 Aug 2025 01:28:38 +0000

The Profs examine the incomparable Kansas. Were they classic rock? Were they early prog rock? Were they a pop band? Kansas was challenging to define, then and now. Whatever the categorization, music fans agree that they made some of the best music of the 70s and 80s, and with very little radio airplay nor popular acclaim. Count and Matt look at the band's past, legacy, and philosophy that so defined the great bands of the 70s.

Episode 27: Iron Maiden: Part II

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 14:25:05 +0000

The Profs take a 2nd look at the monumental British metal band Iron Maiden. Often considered one of the greatest of the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" bands in the early 80s, Maiden's place in the pantheon of metal is secure. And perhaps no band is better at covering historical topics and telling meaningful stories than Steve, Bruce, Dave, Adrian, Janick and Nicko. This one took some time and research! Let's go!

Episode 26: Rockumentaries with Tommy Ellis

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 14:20:19 +0000

This week Matt chats with writer, editor, publisher and music fan Tommy Ellis. In Tommy's longtime role as a magazine editor and publisher, he's had the opportunity to interview some of the biggest names in rock and metal music over his career. He's also an avid fan of music documentaries. Matt and Tommy discuss both well-known and more obscure can't-miss rockumentaries and their impact on fans and the bands.

Episode 25: Ronnie James Dio: Part II

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 14:16:32 +0000

Well, you knew we were going to circle back to DIO. We couldn't possibly cover such an iconic artist with such an illustrious career in one episode. Court and Matt discuss RJD's career, catalog, history, philosophy and various bandmates.

Episode 24: AC/DC: The Brian Johnson Years

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 14:11:32 +0000

The Profs examine the tragic death of Bon Scott, the band soldiering on, Brian Johnson's humble beginnings, and the band becoming bigger than anyone could have ever imagined with "Back in Black", "For Those About to Rock" and "Flick of the Switch." The band that defied all expectations, genres and cultural conventions, AC/DC!

Episode 23: AC/DC: The Bon Scott Years

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 14:08:07 +0000

One of the most downloaded episodes in the show's history, we underestimated just how many people around the world LOVE AC/DC! The profs discuss the band's early lack of success in their home country of Australia, blowing up in England and the US, and their irrerressible desire to make it big no matter what obstacles they encountered.

Episode 22: Black Sabbath: The Ozzy Years

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 14:04:23 +0000

The Profs discuss the history and philosophy of the progenitors of an entire genre of music, the great Black Sabbath. Recorded a few years prior to Ozzy's passing, Matt and Court cover the early history of the band's roots in Birmingham and just how transformative Sabbath was in terms of music, imagery, themes and culture.

Episode 21: Guitar Gods

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 13:14:06 +0000

The Profs discuss the rise of the guitar virtuoso in the 70s and 80s. From Ritchie Blackmore to EVH, Randy Rhoads and Yngwie, the rock and metal genre boasts the greatest guitar players ever to grace the earth. This is going to be a fun one!

Episode 20: Queensryche

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Sat, 23 Aug 2025 12:59:00 +0000

Court and Matt discuss Seattle metal pioneers Queensryche. When this quintet hit the music scene in the early 80s with their 4-song EP, fans knew they were going to be special. With a unique prog sound, soaring vocals and technical guitar and drum work, they were an instance success within the metal community. The Profs discuss the band's history, the greatest concept album of all time, and the band's philosophy as they've endured changing lineups and the fickle music business.

Episode 19: Body Count

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 22:18:54 +0000

The Profs discuss hardcore metal act Body Count and the impact Ice T. and his bandmates made when they hit the scene in the early-90s. From the beginning the band stoked controversy, built a devoted following, endured repeated attacks from politicians and bigots, and persevered over time to become a mainstay at metal festivals into the 2020s.

Episode 18: The RUSH experts - Chris Christianson and Dr. Reynaldo Rojo Mendoza

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 22:14:07 +0000

Matt is joined by long-time friends and hardcore RUSH fans, Chris Christianson and Dr. Reynaldo Rojo Mendoza. The trio have a fun conversation about when they discovered RUSH, what the band meant to them, live concerts they attended, and the passing of the world's greatest percussionist, the Professor Neil Peart.

Episode 17: Interview with Rob De Luca from Spread Eagle, UFO and Sebastian Bach

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 22:07:28 +0000

Road warrior, bassist, songwriter and founding member of Spread Eagle Rob De Luca joins the Profs to talk about the current incarnation of the band, his time with rock legends UFO, and touring with Sebastian Bach.

Episode 16: Spread Eagle

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 22:04:27 +0000

When New York's Spread Eagle hit the metal scene in 1989, many early fans recognized that they were different from the established glam and sleaze metal bands of the late-80s. A self-styled "Street Metal" act, Rob De Luca, Paul DiBartolo, Ray West and Tommy Gallo produced two hard-hitting, raw and uncompromising albums within just a few short years. Alas, as the music industry shifted its focus away from metal in the 90s, Spread Eagle, like so many bands of the era, was a casualty. But like so many great bands from the 80s, Spread Eagle reformed, released another outstanding record, and as of the time of this recording, are still touring and delivering on stage to long-time fans and new coverts.

Episode 15: Rush part 3

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:16:28 +0000

This week Matt invites on a couple Rush experts and long-time friends, Dr. Reynaldo Rojo Mendoza and Mr. Chris Christianson. Were it not for Chris, Matt would not be the Rush fan that he is today. Dr. Rojo Mendoza provides a unique perspective as a Rush fan growing up in Mexico City. My thanks to both of these fine gentlemen for taking the time to join the show!

Episode 14: Rush part 2

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:12:00 +0000

The Profs are back with part 2 in a 3-part series featuring the GLORIOUS music, history and philosophy of Rush.

Episode 13: Rush part 1

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:07:49 +0000

We have some listeners who are going to LOVE this one. Court and Matt unpack the music, history, philosophy and legacy of the greatest Canadian power trio of all time, RUSH! Rush's music is timeless, brilliant, and masterfully composed. Neil Peart's lyrics were a thing of breathtaking beauty and remarkable intellectual and philosophical gravity and insight. Dr. Lewis shines on this one! You don't want to miss it!

Episode 12: Stryper

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:03:55 +0000

For Heaven's Sake, it's Stryper! Stryper proved that a Christian rock band can hit the mainstream, find continued success, and rock! An equal opportunity podcast, the Profs give equal time to the "Yellow and Black Attack", looking at the band's history, legacy, music and staying power. To hell with the Devil!

Episode 11: Alice In Chains

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:58:54 +0000

Time to Bleed the Freak! The Profs take on the history and philosophy of one of Seattle's greatest exports, the one and only Alice In Chains. AIC were the band the bridged the 80s and 90s and kept metal fresh and exciting. Often lumped in with the grunge movement and Seattle sound, Layne, Jerry, Mike and Sean were far more than just another rock band trying to find an identity -- they saved metal from itself and the parody that the genre had become in the late-80s. Time for a Facelift!

Episode 10: Anthrax

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:40:46 +0000

This week, the Profs are Caught in a Mosh! Time for some east coast thrash! Anthrax are considered one of the "Big 4" acts in metal, and it is well-deserved. Breaking big with "Among the Living" in 1986, Charlie Benante, Frank Bello, Joey Belladonna, Scotty Ian and Dan Spitz brought a sound, style and appearance that metal fans welcomed. With well-crafted songs, Stephen King-inspired songs, blast-beat drums and crushing rhythms, Anthrax would not be denied their place in the pantheon of metal gods! I am the Walking Dude!

Episode 9: Coheed and Cambria

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:32:07 +0000

This week a deep dive into an incredibly talented band that may be unfamiliar to some listeners. Coheed and Cambria have made a nice career releasing concept albums with sci-fi and fantasy themes, comic book tie-ins, and incredible musicality and virtuosity. Don't sleep on this band!

Episode 8: Iron Maiden

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 23:25:12 +0000

This Profs investigate the career of one of the most heralded bands of all time, the incomparable Iron Maiden. Matt and Court recount the band's rise to success in England, the Paul DiAnno years, the introduction of Bruce Dickinson, and taking the world by storm in the early-80s. Metal mascots: Has anyone done it better than Iron Maiden with Eddie? Has there ever been a band better at tackling historical events and making them exciting and accessible for listeners? The gents discuss.

Episode 7: KISS: The KISS LIST

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:44:51 +0000

This one is for the hardcore KISS Fan! Court and Matt discuss lyrics and how the band's songs have aged, as well as a multitude of esoteric facts that longtime fans of the band will likely know already. This is a fun one, so join us!

Episode 6: KISS: Part II

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:38:31 +0000

The Profs discuss the band's meteoric rise to rock greatness in the 70s, line-up changes, taking off the make-up (or more acccurately, applying the make-up differently), their reemergence in the 80s, missteps in the 90s and the inevitable reunion of the 4 founding members.

Episode 5: KISS: The Early Years

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:32:33 +0000

In the 70s and 80s no band influenced Court and Matt more than KISS. In this first episode in a 3-episode series, the Profs look at the history and philosophy of Gene, Paul, Ace and Peter, the formation of Wicked Lester (Gene and Paul's first band), their early challenges, and the incredible determination of 4 young New Yorkers who would not be denied their rightful place as rock gods.

Episode 4: Ronnie James Dio

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:25:52 +0000

Often venerated as one of the greatest rock vocalists in history, Ronnie James Dio's storied career is as fantastic as the lyrics he penned about dragons, tigers and rainbows. Court and Matt mine the data to bring you a thoughtful, respectful and thorough accounting of the Man on the Silver Mountain.

Rest in peace Ronnie!

Episode 3: UFO

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:11:20 +0000

The Profs examine the career of UFO, your favorite band's favorite band. UFO has the distinction of influencing dozens of the biggest names in rock and metal music in the 70s and 80s. Phil Mogg, Andy Parker, Pete Way, Paul Raymond and the Mad Axeman Michael Schenker redefined the world of rock, headlining major music festivals in the U.S. and Britain in the late-1970s. We discuss the classic line-up and some of the greatest music ever made, including what is arguably the greatest live album in history, Strangers in the Night.

This podcast is Too Hot to Handle!

Episode 2: Megadeth

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:55:41 +0000

This week the Rock and Metal Profs discuss Megadeth. There is no denying the seismic impact that Megadeth made with Peace Sells, So Far, So Good, So What, Rust in Peace, Countdown to Extinction, Youthanasia and Cryptic Writings. This legendary run of albums made Dave Mustaine and his sometimes revolving door of great musicians titans of thrash in the 80s and 90s. Court and Matt discuss the albums, the line-ups, band history, upheaval and addiction, and of course, the long-standing feud between Dave and the fellows in Metallica.

May the warheads all rest in peace!

Episode 1: Metallica - Back to the Beginning

Matt Alschbach & Court Lewis — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:46:16 +0000

Welcome back to the Rock and Metal Profs Podcast! After a few years hiatus, Court and I have decided to re-release all episodes of the show!

Moving forward, we will record and release new episodes as time permits and inspiration strikes. As listeners may know, Dr. Lewis and I are working college professors, and time is a precious luxury. Nevertheless, our passion for music beckoned us to return to the studio and to make the show available to our listeners. We sincerely appreciate all of the kind words and emails we've received over the previous few years, and we are so grateful that folks enjoy the show.

I will remind listeners that we make no money on the show, nor do we advertise (NO COMMERCIALS). We do it solely for the love of rock and metal music.

Now to the episode. We recorded this back in 2020 and we had no idea what we were doing. As you'll hear, we improved quite a bit over our first season.

Without further ado, METALLICA!!!!!!!