Signals From Mars Podcast
Signals From Mars Podcast

Signals From Mars Podcast

Victor M. Ruiz

Overview
Episodes

Details

Signals From Mars has been broadcasting hard rock and heavy metal since 2009 — and the conversation is still going.Every episode is a chance to find something. Maybe it's a band you've never heard of before. Maybe it's a band you've always known about but never got around to checking out. Or maybe it's a band you loved years ago, lost track of, and needed someone to remind you why they mattered.The show covers artist interviews, free-flowing music discussions, monthly album reviews, yearly album countdowns, band countdowns, and our own Signals From Mars Hall of Fame. No clickbait. No politics. No scripted questions. Just honest conversations about music that matters — new, old, and everything in between.Hosted by Victor M. Ruiz.Visit us at signalsfrommars.comVisit us at www.signalsfrommars.com.Linktr.ee/signalsfrommarspatreon.com/signalsfrommars

Recent Episodes

Elder
MAY 15, 2026
Elder
<p>Episode 458 of Signals From Mars features Victor M. Ruiz in conversation with Nick DiSalvo of Elder.</p><p>In this interview, Nick discusses Elder’s evolution from the band’s early Meteor City era to their new album Through Zero. The conversation explores Elder’s heavy psychedelic rock sound, progressive songwriting, long-form songs, doom and stoner rock roots, Massachusetts upbringing, life in Europe, creative control, independent labels, vinyl culture, production, mixing, and the band’s connection with fans.</p><p>This episode is for listeners searching for an Elder interview, Nick DiSalvo interview, Through Zero interview, heavy psychedelic rock podcast, progressive rock podcast, stoner rock podcast, doom metal podcast, hard rock podcast, heavy metal podcast, rock interview, metal interview, underground rock, vinyl records, independent labels, and modern heavy music that rewards repeat listening.</p><p>Fans of Elder, Through Zero, Lore, Reflections Of A Floating World, Omens, Innate Passage, heavy psych, progressive rock, doom, stoner rock, and atmospheric riff-driven music will enjoy this conversation about songwriting, sound, growth, and artistic identity.</p><p>Thank you to my Patrons for all of their support</p><p>Steven Sailer</p><p>Steve Hoeker</p><p>Jeremy Weltman</p><p>Mike Jones</p><p>Brad Dahl</p><p>Mark Strigl</p><p>Gabriel Ruiz</p><p>Chris Vaglio</p><p>Metal Dan</p><p>Johan Ederström</p><p>Ed Ferguson</p><p>Anthony Mackey</p><p>Toni Espin</p><p>Sean Richmond</p><p>You can become a Patron for as little as $2 a month. Go to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Social Media Links For Nick DiSalvo / Elder</p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://beholdtheelder.com/">https://beholdtheelder.com/</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://beholdtheelder.bandcamp.com/">https://beholdtheelder.bandcamp.com/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/elderband/">https://www.instagram.com/elderband/</a></p><p>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/elderofficial/">https://www.facebook.com/elderofficial/</a></p><p>X / Twitter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/beholdtheelder">https://x.com/beholdtheelder</a></p><p>Spotify: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1687IqXRdWmbRshgn194tT">https://open.spotify.com/artist/1687IqXRdWmbRshgn194tT</a></p><p>Social Media Links For Signals From Mars</p><p>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars">https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/">https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/</a></p><p>X / Twitter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars">https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars</a></p><p>TikTok: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars">https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Patreon: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Follow, like and share!</p>
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36 MIN
Who On Earth
MAY 8, 2026
Who On Earth
<p>Episode 457 of Signals From Mars features Victor M. Ruiz in conversation with Pete Rizzi and Coosh from New Jersey hard rock and metal band Who On Earth.</p><p>This interview covers Who On Earth’s new album It Takes The Village, the band’s East Coast hard rock and heavy metal roots, the New Jersey music scene, working with Mike Orlando, writing music that can be performed live, revisiting older songs, physical music releases, Bandcamp, vinyl, CDs, and the importance of keeping new rock and metal alive.</p><p>Pete and Coosh also discuss the band’s approach to covers, including “Jane” by Jefferson Starship and “Hold The Line” by Toto, while sharing insight into the creative process behind Who On Earth’s modern hard rock and heavy metal sound.</p><p>For fans of hard rock interviews, heavy metal podcasts, New Jersey metal, East Coast rock, independent bands, new metal releases, and modern bands carrying the torch for classic heavy music, this episode of Signals From Mars is for you.</p><p>Thank you to my Patrons for all of their support</p><p>Steven Sailer</p><p>Steve Hoeker</p><p>Jeremy Weltman</p><p>Mike Jones</p><p>Brad Dahl</p><p>Mark Strigl</p><p>Gabriel Ruiz</p><p>Chris Vaglio</p><p>Metal Dan</p><p>Johan Ederström</p><p>Ed Ferguson</p><p>Anthony Mackey</p><p>Toni Espin</p><p>Sean Richmond</p><p>You can become a Patron for as little as $2 a month. Go to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Social Media Links For Who On Earth</p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://whoonearththeband.com">https://whoonearththeband.com</a></p><p>Bandcamp: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://whoonearthus.bandcamp.com">https://whoonearthus.bandcamp.com</a></p><p>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/WhoOnEarth/">https://www.facebook.com/WhoOnEarth/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/whoonearththeband/">https://www.instagram.com/whoonearththeband/</a></p><p>X / Twitter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/WhoOnEarthBand">https://x.com/WhoOnEarthBand</a></p><p>TikTok: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@whoonearthus">https://www.tiktok.com/@whoonearthus</a></p><p>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@WhoOnEarthOfficial">https://www.youtube.com/@WhoOnEarthOfficial</a></p><p>Social Media Links For Signals From Mars</p><p>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars">https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/">https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/</a></p><p>X / Twitter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars">https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars</a></p><p>TikTok: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars">https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Patreon: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Follow, like and share!</p>
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39 MIN
Guitar Albums Countdown
MAY 1, 2026
Guitar Albums Countdown
<p><strong>Episode 456: Greatest Guitar Albums Countdown | Best Hard Rock &amp; Heavy Metal Guitar Albums Ever</strong></p><p><strong>What are the greatest guitar albums of all time in hard rock and heavy metal?</strong></p><p><strong>In this episode of Signals From Mars, we present a fan-voted countdown of the best guitar-driven albums ever recorded. Listeners submitted their top 10 picks based on one key idea: if you had to introduce someone to a guitar god or shredder, which album would you choose?</strong></p><p><strong>Using the signature Signals From Mars points system, we rank the ultimate list featuring legendary artists, iconic riffs, and unforgettable solos. From Eddie Van Halen’s revolutionary tapping, to Randy Rhoads’ neoclassical brilliance, to Yngwie Malmsteen’s shred innovations, this episode explores the albums that shaped generations of guitar players.</strong></p><p><strong>We also break down:</strong></p><p><strong>Albums that defined the concept of the “guitar hero”</strong></p><p><strong>The difference between technical shredders and influential riff masters</strong></p><p><strong>Multiple albums from the same artists and how they impact rankings</strong></p><p><strong>“Guitar universes” connecting bands like Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne, and beyond</strong></p><p><strong>Why certain albums became essential listening for understanding guitar greatness</strong></p><p><strong>Featured artists and albums include material connected to:</strong></p><p><strong>Van Halen, Ozzy Osbourne, Metallica, Iron Maiden, Guns N’ Roses, AC/DC, Yngwie Malmsteen, David Lee Roth, and more.</strong></p><p><strong>Whether you’re a lifelong metalhead or just discovering guitar-driven music, this episode is your guide to the most important guitar albums in rock and metal history.</strong></p><p><strong>Thank you to my Patrons for all of their support</strong></p><p><strong>Steven Sailer</strong></p><p><strong>Steve Hoeker</strong></p><p><strong>Jeremy Weltman</strong></p><p><strong>Mike Jones</strong></p><p><strong>Brad Dahl</strong></p><p><strong>Mark Strigl</strong></p><p><strong>Gabriel Ruiz</strong></p><p><strong>Chris Vaglio</strong></p><p><strong>Metal Dan</strong></p><p><strong>Johan Ederström</strong></p><p><strong>Ed Ferguson</strong></p><p><strong>Anthony Mackey</strong></p><p><strong>Toni Espin</strong></p><p><strong>Sean Richmond</strong></p><p><strong>You can become a Patron for as little as $2 a month. Go to </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars"><strong>https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars</strong></a></p><p><strong>Social Media Links For Signals From Mars</strong></p><p><strong>YouTube: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars"><strong>https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars</strong></a></p><p><strong>Facebook: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars"><strong>https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars</strong></a></p><p><strong>Instagram: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/"><strong>https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/</strong></a></p><p><strong>X / Twitter: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars"><strong>https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars</strong></a></p><p><strong>TikTok: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars"><strong>https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars</strong></a></p><p><strong>Patreon: </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars"><strong>https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars</strong></a></p><p><strong>Follow, like and share!</strong></p>
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74 MIN
Gus G 2026
APR 24, 2026
Gus G 2026
<p><strong>Signals From Mars – Episode 455: Gus G. Interview | Steel Burner, Firewind &amp; Ozzy Osbourne</strong></p><p>In <strong>Episode 455 of Signals From Mars</strong>, Victor M. Ruiz interviews <strong>Gus G.</strong> (Firewind, Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy) about his latest solo album <em>Steel Burner</em> and his evolving approach to heavy metal songwriting.</p><p>Gus discusses his focus on <strong>concise, hard-hitting songs</strong>, stepping away from extended guitar-driven tracks in favor of tighter arrangements. He also explains why he handled most of the instrumentation himself, how he selects and works with guest vocalists, and how collaborations come together organically.</p><p>The episode also covers:</p><ul><li>The creative process behind <em>Steel Burner</em></li><li>Working with producer Dennis Ward</li><li>Balancing instrumental and vocal tracks</li><li>The transition from <em>Quantum Leap</em> to this release</li><li>Touring and future plans with Firewind</li></ul><p>Gus also reflects on his time with <strong>Ozzy Osbourne</strong>, offering insight into what it means to be part of such a small group of guitarists who have recorded and performed with Ozzy.</p><p>If you're looking for a <strong>Gus G. interview, Steel Burner album insights, Firewind updates, or Ozzy Osbourne guitarist discussion</strong>, this episode delivers exactly that.</p><p><strong>Thank you to my Patrons for all of their support</strong></p><p>Steven Sailer </p><p>Steve Hoeker </p><p>Jeremy Weltman </p><p>Mike Jones </p><p>Brad Dahl Mark Strigl </p><p>Gabriel Ruiz </p><p>Chris Vaglio </p><p>Metal Dan </p><p>Johan Ederström </p><p>Ed Ferguson </p><p>Anthony Mackey </p><p>Toni Espin </p><p>Sean Richmond</p><p>You can become a Patron for as little as $2 a month. Go to </p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p><strong>Social Media Links for Gus G. / Firewind</strong></p><p>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/gusgofficial">https://www.facebook.com/gusgofficial</a> </p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/gusgofficial">https://www.instagram.com/gusgofficial</a> </p><p>X / Twitter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://twitter.com/gusgofficial">https://twitter.com/gusgofficial</a> </p><p>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@GusGOfficial">https://www.youtube.com/@GusGOfficial</a></p><p><strong>Social Media Links For Signals From Mars</strong></p><p>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars">https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars</a> </p><p>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars</a> </p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/">https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/</a> </p><p>X / Twitter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars">https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars</a> </p><p>TikTok: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars">https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars</a> </p><p>Patreon: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Follow, like and share!</p>
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37 MIN
March 2026 Albums Review
APR 17, 2026
March 2026 Albums Review
<p>Signals From Mars Episode 454 – March 2026 Albums Review | Best New Hard Rock &amp; Heavy Metal Albums 2026</p><p>Victor M. Ruiz is joined by Ed Ferguson and Jeremy Weltman to review and analyze the best new hard rock and heavy metal albums released in March 2026.</p><p>This episode of Signals From Mars delivers a deep dive into March 2026 album releases across multiple subgenres including heavy metal, thrash metal, death metal, metalcore, hard rock, and underground independent releases. The panel breaks down standout albums, hidden gems, and notable disappointments while discussing production quality, songwriting trends, and evolving sounds in today’s rock and metal scene.</p><p>If you're looking for the best new metal albums of 2026, hard rock album reviews, underground metal recommendations, or want to stay updated on the latest releases in heavy music, this episode provides essential listening and expert insight.</p><p>Discover new bands, revisit established artists, and build your 2026 year-end album list with this comprehensive March 2026 albums review.</p><p>Thank you to my Patrons for all of their support</p><p>Steven Sailer</p><p>Steve Hoeker</p><p>Jeremy Weltman</p><p>Mike Jones</p><p>Brad Dahl</p><p>Mark Strigl</p><p>Gabriel Ruiz</p><p>Chris Vaglio</p><p>Metal Dan</p><p>Johan Ederström</p><p>Ed Ferguson</p><p>Anthony Mackey</p><p>Toni Espin</p><p>Sean Richmond</p><p>You can become a Patron for as little as $2 a month. Go to </p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Social Media Links For Signals From Mars</p><p>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars">https://youtube.com/c/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.facebook.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/">https://www.instagram.com/signalsfrommarsofficial/</a></p><p>X / Twitter: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars">https://www.twitter.com/SignalsFromMars</a></p><p>TikTok: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars">https://www.tiktok.com/@signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Patreon: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars">https://www.patreon.com/signalsfrommars</a></p><p>Follow, like and share!</p>
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74 MIN