Long Live the Music

It's All Madness! Our Favorite Albums Bracket

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 11:30:00 -0400

A lot of great music has been released since we launched our site back in 2013. So we compiled our favorite albums over the past 13 years and crammed them into a bracket to decide which album reins supreme! Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Alves and old friend Kyle Schultz to break down each match-up on the bracket and argue their way to champion. Go to itsalldead.com to download your own bracket and follow along!

Our Most Anticipated Releases of 2026

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:20:00 -0400

And we're back! On the latest episode of Long Live the Music, Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves catch-up to round off the year in music for 2025, discussing their top albums, songs, and moments. They then take a look at the year ahead and discuss some of their most anticipated releases for 2026 - both those that we know of and those that have yet to be announced. They also discuss MORE new music from Hayley Williams, take a look back at the Grammys, and more. Take a listen!

Will Work for Hayley Williams Tour Tickets

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Anyone out there able to get tickets to Hayley Williams Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party Tour? We sure weren't. On our latest episode, Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves lament the impossibility of securing tickets to next spring's biggest tour, while discussing the general frustration of fans who find it harder and harder to get access to their favorite artists' shows. They also share about their respective processes to prep for end of the year lists and how they go about choosing their best albums and songs. Take a listen!

Twenty One Pilots Hit the TOP with "Breach"

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Are Twenty One Pilots the biggest rock band in the world right now? Maybe not, but it's certainly up for debate after the release of their first #1 album Breach. Kiel Hauck is joined by Twenty One Pilots superfan Nadia Alves to break down the closing of a chapter for the band, and perhaps the opening of an exciting new one. Kiel and Nadia also share some of their favorite albums of the year so far as we head into autumn, including a lengthy chat on Hayley Williams' Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party. Listen in!

Kesha is SO Back (and so is Clipse)!

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Did you hear? Some really good music just dropped! Evan Sawdey of PopMatters and Yardbarker joins Kiel Hauck to discuss fantastic new albums from Kesha and Clipse. First, they dig into the new Kesha album . (Period) and discuss this exciting third act of her career. They also do a deep dive on Kesha's discography and rank the albums before sharing some of her best songs. Then they dive into Let God Sort Em Out, the first new album from Clipse in over a decade. Is it the best hip hop album of the year so far? And is this what hip hop looks like at 50? Take a listen!

The Best Songs That Should've Been Singles

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 09:13:00 -0400

Well, we're back with another zany topic for a podcast! Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Alves to check back in on some of the best new music that's dropped so far this summer and share anticipation for some music that's on the way (including a new album from Twenty One Pilots). Then they discuss some of the best songs from albums that were inexplicably never released as singles and how certain changes to single choices could have single-handedly changed the trajectory of specific bands and albums. Take a listen!

A Month of Metalcore Madness

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 13:52:00 -0400

The month of March brought a tidal wave of new metalcore albums from some of the genre's best bands. Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves break it all down, diving into new albums from Architects, Spiritbox, and Underoath. They debate which album rose to the top and how each album fits into each respective band's discography. Take a listen as they do a deep dive on The Sky, The Earth & All Between, Tsunami Sea, and The Place After This One.

We Prepare for a Spiritbox Tsunami Sea

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:04:51 -0400

We're just a week away from Tsunami Sea, the new album from Canadian metalcore act Spiritbox. Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves hop on the pod to share their early impressions of the new singles and the band's new aesthetic, as well as discuss their rise to stardom in the metal world. They also break down vocalist Courtney LaPlante's recent meme-worthy moment on the Grammy's red carpet and she has come to be an icon of sorts. Listen in!

2024 in Review - The Music that Moved Us

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 14:09:59 -0400

Another year is in the books so Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves hopped on the pod to break it all down, including their best albums and songs of the year and much more. They also took some time to discuss the music they discovered in 2024 that wasn't necessarily new, but still impacted them nonetheless. Take a listen!

When We Were Young 2024 Recap & The Return of Warped Tour

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 14:47:00 -0400

We're back (again)! Kiel Hauck recently made the trip to Las Vegas for When We Were Young 2024. He's joined by Nadia Alves to recap the weekend and the discuss the evolution of the festival and its impact on the scene. They then dive into the return of Vans Warped Tour and all of the complicated feelings that come with it. Do we even need Warped Tour at this point, or has the scene found new ways to create safe and satisfying gathering spaces? Listen in!

Paste and Apple's Best Albums Lists with Evan Sawdey

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

He's baaaaAAAAck. Popmatters' Evan Sawdey joins the pod to chat with Kiel about the recent publication of Paste's list of the 300 Greatest Albums and Apple Music's 100 Best Albums. After a breakdown of the lists themselves, Evan and Kiel dig into the concept of these kinds of lists - why we need them and why the evolution of what they represent is important. Next, they examine the possibility of Taylor Swift Fatigue, the rapid rise of Chappell Roan, and make their best bets on 2024's Song of the Summer. Listen in!

Breaking Down "POST HUMAN: NeX GEn" and "Clancy"

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Oh baby. The summer music season is in full swing, and Nadia and Kiel are both addicted to different albums. On this episode of the pod, Nadia shares her affinity for Clancy, the new album from Twenty One Pilots, while Kiel breaks down POST HUMAN: NeX GEn, the latest from Bring Me the Horizon. In addition to deep dives on both albums, the duo each rank the releases from each band and share their top 10 songs from both groups. This is a wild one folks - buckle up!

The Best "Forgotten" Bands from Tooth & Nail Records

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0400

On the latest episode of Long Live the Music, Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves jump in the scene time machine to travel back to the heyday of Tooth & Nail Records, when the label was pumping out one hot new band after another. But for every Underoath, Emery, and Anberlin, there were bands who, for whatever reason, just never made the big splash we thought they would. Kiel and Nadia recount some of the label's best bands that never took off and examine what may have been the reason. The discussion includes bands like Jonezetta, Waking Ashland, Run Kid Run, Secret & Whisper, and much more. Listen in!

Spiritbox Bracket Madness!

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Uh oh, we made a bracket of Spiritbox songs like they were basketball teams and then debated which songs would win in each matchup. That's our bad. But not really, cuz this was a blast. Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves argue and debate the merits of almost every Spiritbox song to date as they work their way down to the Final Four and eventual champion. If you're a Spiritbox fan, this is a must listen. You can check out our bracket at www.itsalldead.com. Take a listen and join in!

The Sounds of Spring 2024

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 11:00:00 -0400

Hey! Spring is kinda sorta almost here! Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Alves to discuss the early tracks from 2024 that have them the most excited for the year ahead. They then dive into some of their favorite tracks and albums that help them make the mental shift from winter to spring and define what it is about certain music that just makes you wanna roll down the windows and frolic through the flowers or whatever. Anyway, check it out!

Looking Back on 10 Years of It's All Dead

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0400

10 years ago, we had the crazy idea to start a music website and podcast to talk about music on our own terms - how it made us feel, how we believed in its power to speak to us and its ability to build community. And here we are a decade later, still rolling. Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz to look back on the past 10 years and discuss some of their favorite moments covering the bands they love and discuss how the music scene has evolved since 2013. They also spend some time breaking down One More Time, the new album from blink-182. Take a listen!

Taylor Swift's Never-ending Era

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0400

Taylor Swift has been at the epicenter of the pop culture zeitgeist for the entirety of the year (and more) and it appears that things won't be slowing down any time soon. Kiel Hauck welcomed Evan Sawdey of PopMatters and Yardbarker to the podcast to talk about Swift's growth from singer/songwriter to music business mogul and how she continues to evolve in ways that push the boundaries of what we've seen from a mega pop star. During the conversation, they seek to pinpoint key moments that have led to the ungodly success of the Eras Tour and discuss what comes next - namely, how long can Taylor ride these heights of fame? Listen in!

2023 Summer Concert Review and Fall Preview

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0400

We're back, baby! On our return episode of Long Live the Music, Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Alves to discuss a wild summer of concert fun, including tours from Fall Out Boy, Jonas Brothers, Yellowcard, Sad Summer Festival, and Nickelback. Um yeah, you read that correctly. The two discuss whether 2023 marks the full return of the concert experience post-pandemic and how setlists and shows have evolved in recent years. Then they break down a full fall slate of fall tours, including The Wonder Years, Bad Omens, Sleep Token, The Used, and much, much more. Listen in!

Late Pass: Bad Omens is Owning Their Moment

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0400

Hey, have you heard about this band Bad Omens? They're kinda blowing up. Nadia Alves joins Kiel Hauck to discuss the band's rise to fame in the past year since the release of their third album, The Death of Peace of Mind. They break down how TikTok helped elevate the band to a new level, powered by the sudden and unexpected grassroots success of their song "Just Pretend". They also discuss how the internet has evolved over the years in terms of how we discover new music and how bands can find surprise success in the most unlikely of ways. They also gush over how great Bad Omens is and rank some of their favorite songs. Whatevz. Listen in!

Reacting to So Much (for) Stardust

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0400

The new album from Fall Out Boy has arrived and there's plenty to discuss! Nadia Alves joins Kiel Hauck to break down the band's latest release, So Much (for) Stardust, and discuss how it measures up to the band's best work - both pre- and post-hiatus. The duo also share their favorite Pete Wentz one-liners, their thoughts on the return of Neal Avron as producer, and dig into some of the best songs on the record. Finally, Nadia and Kiel hold a Fall Out Boy album draft and have their respective teams of FOB albums face off in a battle to the death! Okay, it's not that serious, but it is silly and fun. Listen in!

This is Why the new Paramore Album is So Great (haha get it?)

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:00:00 -0400

After nearly six long years, Paramore have returned with This is Why, an incredible album that challenges notions of the band's past sonic identity while sounding distinctly in tone like the band we all love. Nadia Alves joins Kiel Hauck to discuss their reactions to the new album and break down some of the standout moments. The duo also discuss "the moment" that Paramore seems to be owning, how crazy it is that the band is thriving in 2023, and what we might expect in the future from the Franklin, Tennesse, trio. Take a listen!

Omg Fall Out Boy is Back...and We Love it!

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Yesterday was a big day. Fall Out Boy made their triumphant return with a new single, "Love From the Other Side", and the announcement of a new album dropping March 24: So Much (For) Stardust. Nadia Alves joins Kiel Hauck to break down the new song and speculate about the direction the new album might take. They also discuss the breaking news about Joe Trohman stepping away from the band, the general pop culture consensus on the band, and re-rank all of the Fall Out Boy albums. Take a listen!

We Survived When We Were Young Festival 2022

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 10:00:00 -0400

This year's When We Were Young Festival is officially in the books - and there is no shortage of things to discuss. Kiel Hauck is joined by fellow festival-goer Chris Waflart to break down their trip to Las Vegas for the first weekend of the festival. The two discuss the surprising cancellation of day one (and the unbelievable windstorm that was responsible), the emo vibe in Las Vegas, and the excitement leading up to the festival. They also walk through the entire day - from entry to the grounds to the final headlining sets of the night from Paramore and My Chemical Romance. Take a listen to hear the ins and outs of When We Were Young 2022!

Tom Delonge is Back in blink-182 - Again!

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 10:00:00 -0400

It's official: Tom Delonge is back in blink-182 - again! Here's what we know: Tom is in and Matt Skiba is out. The band will embark on a world tour in 2023-24. There is a new song coming Friday and a new album to follow. Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz to break down the news and speculate on what's to follow. The two share their thoughts on the end of the Matt Skiba era, the return of Tom in 2022 vs. the return of Tom in 2008, and where the band's legacy stands today and where things could go from here. One thing's for certain: new blink music is on the way, and that's a good thing. Take a listen!

Midnight is Coming: Breaking Down Taylor's Swift's Album Announcement

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0400

You may have heard, but a new Taylor Swift album is coming - and fast! Swift announced her new album MIdnights at the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards last weekend. Before the album drops on October 21st, Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves hopped on the podcast to break it all down. Kiel and Nadia discuss the surprise announcement, the fascinating album concept, and what we might expect from this very unexpected release. Take a listen!

The Return of Anberlin and the Upcoming Return of Paramore

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0400

We're back! And so are some of our favorite bands! Since we've been gone, Anberlin returned with a new EP titled Silverline, their first new music release in eight years. Nadia Alves joins Kiel Hauck to break down the release and why it feels so surreal to have Anberlin back in our lives. Then the two discuss the upcoming return of Paramore. We know there's a new album coming, but we don't know when. We actually don't know much, at all. But Kiel and Nadia read the tea leaves and speculate about what could be a monumental moment for Hayley Williams and company. Take a listen!

Devin Shelton of Emery discusses "Rub Some Dirt On It" and more!

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Friday marked the release of Rub Some Dirt On It, the 9th studio album from Emery. Vocalist and bassist Devin Shelton joined Kiel Hauck on the show to talk about the new album and explain how the band's creative process has evolved over the years. Shelton also discusses the band's unique history and trajectory, and how their experiences early in their career set them up for a second act that has involved much more than just making music. Devin also talks scene nostalgia, playing shows post-pandemic, and this summer's upcoming Labeled Fest. Take a listen!

Interview with Kevin Klein of Valleyheart

Tue, 31 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400

Friday marks the release of Heal My Head, the new album from Massachusetts alt rock trio Valleyheart. Vocalist and guitarist Kevin Klein joined us on the show to chat with our own Nadia Alves about the band's sonic progression on this new record and what inspired them to explore new territory. Klein also shares about his songwriting process and how exploring past trauma allowed himself and the band to tap into new and powerful stories that serve as the heartbeat of Heal My Head. Take a listen, and then go snag the album on Friday!

Ranking the Albums of Katy Perry

Mon, 16 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400

There was a moment in time, not so long ago, when Katy Perry was not only the biggest pop star on the planet, but one of the biggest pop stars of all time. Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Alves as they look back on the illustrious and unexpected career of Katy Perry - from unknown Christian artist to everyone's favorite "bad" girl. The duo discuss the impact of Teenage Dream on pop music at large and debate whether the album is actually her best (spoiler alert: it's not). They also rank every Katy Perry studio album and list their top 10 Katy Perry songs. Listen in!

If we're gonna date, you have to listen to my seven favorite albums

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 09:00:00 -0400

Remember that time where Scott Pilgrim wanted to date Ramona Flowers, but first he had to defeat her seven deadly exes? Wild stuff. Anyway, we decided to come up with the seven albums you would have to listen to in order to date us. Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz and Nadia Alves as they list the seven albums that define their journey, showcase their taste, and tell their story. It's an admittedly weird exercise, but it sure was fun! Listen in.

Special thanks to alissaaamay for the inspiration!

Our Favorite Springtime Music

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 09:00:00 -0400

Ah yes. The sun is shining. The flowers are blooming. The birds are chirping. Time to roll down the windows and blast some of our favorite music to celebrate the season. On this episode of Long Live the Music, Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz and Nadia Alves to discuss the traits that make for the perfect spring album. They then break down their favorite albums to celebrate springtime and talk about why those albums resonate so well this time of year. They also discuss some great new releases, including the new album from Dashboard Confessional. Listen in!

Sam Manzella on the 10th Anniversary of Fun's "Some Nights"

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0400

It's been 10 years since fun. released Some Nights, which vaulted the band into stardom when hit single "We Are Young" took over the charts in 2012. On this episode of Long Live the Music, Kiel Hauck is joined by MTV News writer Sam Manzella to look back on the album, the impact it made during a transitional moment in popular music, and the quasi-fallout of the band that resulted in very divergent paths for both Jack Antonoff and Nate Ruess. The two also discuss Antonoff's impact on pop music in the years since the album's release and the chances of a fun. reunion ever taking place. Take a listen!

You can read Sam's MTV News retrospective feature on Some Nights here: https://www.mtv.com/news/3184017/fun-we-are-young-new-retro/

What Makes a Great Visual Album with Evan Sawdey

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Long Live the Music, Kiel Hauck is joined by fellow music journalist Evan Sawdey of PopMatters and Yardbarker to discuss a recent article titled, "The Definitive Ranking of Every Visual Album." Sawdey shares the genesis of the piece and the qualifications used to define what a visual album actually is. Evan also breaks down the key elements of a great visual album and what it looked like to consume and then rank each piece of work. Kiel and Evan also dive into several visual albums on the list, including those from Beyonce, Justin Bieber, Fall Out Boy, Kanye West, Halsey and much more. Take a listen!

Check out Evan's article here: https://www.yardbarker.com/entertainment/articles/the_definitive_ranking_of_every_visual_album/s1__37140956

When We Were Young: Full Festival Breakdown

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 13:47:46 -0400

Last week, we were gifted with the festival lineup of every scene kid's dreams. When We Were Young Festival, taking place over two days in October at the Los Vegas Festival Grounds, features a lineup so stacked that it's hard to comprehend. Kyle Schultz and Nadia Alves join Kiel Hauck to breakdown the full lineup and talk through the logistics of what will undeniably be an insane weekend. They also share their short list of "must see bands," discuss some acts that got left off the bill, and debate the potential drawbacks of the weekend. Take a listen!

Our Most Anticipated Music of 2022

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 10:00:00 -0400

A new year is here, which means that another 12 months of new music is on its way. Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz and Nadia Alves as they look forward to some of their most anticipated albums and events of 2022. But before diving into what's on their wish list, they look back on 2021, discussing some of their favorite albums and a few albums and artists that may have been overlooked. Listen in - and then tell us your most anticipated albums of 2022!

Reacting to Red (Taylor's Version)

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0400

It's been a week since Taylor Swift blessed us with Red (Taylor's Version). And we have thoughts! Kiel Hauck is joined by fellow It's All Dead-ians Kyle Schultz and Nadia Alves to delve into the nooks and crannies of all 30 tracks of this new release. They share takes on the best and most interesting re-recorded songs and weigh in some of the best "From the Vault" tracks that round out the album. Is the 10-minute version of "All Too Well" better than the original? Are there still easter eggs within the album that have yet to be uncovered by Swiftie Sleuths? Who had the best guest appearance on the album? And what album is coming next? All of these questions (and more) are addressed - listen in!

Introducing: Wildwood Flower Season 2

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 19:39:47 -0400

Wildwood Flower: Stories of Women who Built Country Music is back for Season 2!

Intro episode will drop on October 1st! Available on all platforms.

To find out more about the podcast, listen to the introductory episode here.

Subscribe and follow on Instagram at wildwoodflowerpod to stay updated on new episodes and special announcements.

Kacey Musgraves and the Anatomy of a Great Divorce Album

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Kacey Musgraves recently returned with a new album, Star-Crossed, which explores her divorce from Ruston Kelly. As it turns out, there's a long history of albums reckoning with the fallout of divorce and they all share some very common threads. Area Code Network's own Richard Clark joins Kiel Hauck on the podcast to discuss the anatomy of a great divorce album and how the concept has evolved over the decades. They also break down the highs and lows of Star-Crossed and how the album stacks up to other recently released albums that explore the concept of leaving (Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Eilish). Take a listen!

Reviews of the New Albums from Halsey and CHVRCHES

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Woah! What a new music Friday we just had. Highlighting the release schedule were Halsey's If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power and CHVRCHES' Screen Violence. Kiel Hauck hops on the mic to break down his thoughts on both new albums, keying in on the artistic evolution of Halsey and their journey as one of the most important pop-adjacent artists of the past decade and how CHVRCHES rebounded from their major label debut to re-discover themselves in unexpected ways. Take a listen!

Hella Mega Tour and the Return of Live Music

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Have you heard? Live music is happening at a venue near you! Our very own Kyle Schultz recently found himself at such an event, and it was a big one. Kyle joins Kiel Hauck to talk about his experience at the recent Chicago stop of the Hella Mega Tour. Kyle shares the general vibe and experience of attending a concert again and gives his full breakdown of the mammoth-sized tour, including standout songs and performances. Who brought the house down the most: Weezer, Fall Out Boy, or Green Day? Take a listen and find out!

Our Favorite Bad Songs

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0400

What songs do you listen to when you switch Spotify to private mode? We all do it. So let's talk about it! Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Alves and Kyle Schultz to share their deepest, darkest music secrets. The songs we love that we don't tell our friends about. The songs that move us that we don't share with the world. And why they mean so much to us. So what are some of our favorite "bad" songs? Take a listen and find out!

Cole Cuchna Talks Yeezus, Olivia Rodrigo, and the Music that Gives Us Chills

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Music podcaster extraordinaire Cole Cuchna just wrapped up season 8 of the wildly successful Dissect Podcast and also recently launched Key Notes - an interactive music show that combines full songs with original musical and lyrical analysis. Cole joined Kiel Hauck on Long Live the Music to discuss the complexity of Yeezus and how he approached the album for Dissect. Cole also talks about why some music gives us chills and what it is about Olivia Rodrigo's smash hit "Driver's License" that checks all of the neurological boxes. They also discuss a new generation's fascination with the alternative, guitar-driven music of the 90s and what might come next in the evolution of popular music as a whole. Take a listen!

Introducing: Feel For the Game, Season 2

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 18:28:58 -0400

Welcome back to the Area Code neighborhood: Feel For the Game.

Nick and Noah return with a series of (mainly basketball) conversations about nostalgic moments in NBA history, current issues plaguing the league, how coping and mental health play a role in sports, and more.

Tune-in as they unprofessionally, but sincerely explore why sports are bigger than just the score of the game. Subscribe now, and follow along to find out how many times Noah makes an unwarranted Kansas Jayhawks basketball reference.

✌️

The Best Albums of 2021 (So Far)

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

The year is half over. How is it possible? Only scientists can explain. But we'll use the opportunity to break down some of the best music that's been released so far this year. Kiel Hauck kicks things off by sharing summertime Warped Tour memories and discussing the return of live music. With tours being announced left and right, we're all making big decisions about when, where, and how we return to concert settings. Then Kiel shares some words about some of the albums that have been impacting the Long Live the Music crew so far in 2021, from Architects to Olivia Rodrigo to J. Cole and more. Listen in!

The Wonder Years' "Suburbia" Turns 10

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

It's been 10 years since The Wonder Years staked their claim as the flagship band of the 2010's pop punk revival. Suburbia I've Given You All and Now I'm Nothing is officially a decade old but still just as powerful and impactful as the day it was released. Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz to discuss their memories of the album's release and how it took the scene by storm. During the discussion, they break down some of the album's best tracks and a few of Dan "Soupy" Campbell's best lines. They also debate where the album stands among the best pop punk releases of all time. Take a listen!

Who Won the 2011 Hip Hop Title Belt?

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 09:00:00 -0400

We're back, baby! Brock Benefiel makes his triumphant return to the podcast to discuss everything that went down in the world of hip hop in 2011. Brock and Kiel break down the year's avalanche of debuts (Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Childish Gambino, Mac Miller, etc.) and take a look at the albums that defined the year (Drake, Jay-Z and Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco, etc.). They also talk about the changing landscape of hip hop in 2011 and how the genre was about to evolve in more ways than we could have imagined. Finally, they hand out the 2011 Hip Hop Title Belt. Who won? Listen in to find out!

Introducing: Wildwood Flower

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 20:12:37 -0400

Welcome the newest resident to the Area Code neighborhood:Wildwood Flower: Stories of Women who Built Country Music.

Season 1 premiering on June 4th! Available on all platforms.

To find out more about the podcast, listen to the introductory episode here.

Subscribe and follow on Instagram at wildwoodflowerpod to stay updated on new episodes and special announcements.

Mike Herrera Talks Livestream Performances and (Almost) 30 Years of MxPx

Mon, 24 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Thought we were done talking MxPx? Think again! Mike Herrera stopped by the podcast to talk with Kiel Hauck about the band's current livestream series, Between This World and the Next, and how the band has stayed innovative when it comes to connecting with their fans. Mike also reflects on the upcoming 30th anniversary of MxPx and shares about the experience of exploring the band's deep catalogue across their recent livestream setlists. Finally, he discusses the ebbs and flows of fan response to the band's music over the years and the prospect of a new MxPx album. Take a listen!

The Best of MxPx with Jason Tate

Mon, 10 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

This one has been a long time coming, folks. We welcome Jason Tate, founder of Chorus.fm, to the podcast to talk all things MxPx. Jason and Kiel Hauck break down the band's history and legacy before diving into an extensive ranking of the band's 10 studio albums. They also discuss the biggest "What if?" in the band's career, their favorite MxPx concert memories, and why the band is still so vital and relevant almost three decades into their career.

It's safe to say that It's All Dead and this podcast wouldn't exist without MxPx and the impact they've made on the scene. We had an absolute blast diving into the band's legacy and discography and we hope you enjoy this (rather long!) episode. Long Live Left Coast Punk Rawk.

Lil Nas X, "WAP" and Music Outrage with Evan Sawdey

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400

People are mad about music again. And we kinda love it! Kiel Hauck is joined by Evan Sawdey of PopMatters to discuss the cultural outrage associated with Lil Nas X's new single "Montero (Call Me By Your Name)", Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion's Grammy performance of "WAP", along with a general movement back toward backlash. They discuss why outrage about music seemed diminished in recent years, why it appears to have returned, and what kind of conversation should ensue. They also reflect on a previous generation of music backlash, the evolving nature of protest music, and why it's so vital to elevate music and artists that have something important to say. Listen in!

Demi Lovato's Comeback and Taylor Swift's "Fearless"

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Demi Lovato has returned with a reformative new album, Dancing with the Devil...the Art of Starting Over. Kiel Hauck and Nadia Alves examine Demi's return to the scene from battles with addiction and abuse and what this new album has to say about her journey and the power structures present in the music scene. They then dive into Taylor Swift's re-released version of Fearless and discuss what her current re-recording project means for not only her legacy, but the current state of the music industry. Finally, they chat about Julien Baker's new album Little Oblivions and their thoughts on the return of live music later this year. Take a listen!

Welcome to Long Live the Music

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

We've got some exciting news! It's All Dead is joining the Area Code podcast network - and with it, we're changing our name. Welcome to Long Live the Music.

If you've followed us for any length of time since we launched this thing back in 2013, you'll know that It's All Dead is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the claims that "punk is dead," "hip hop is dead," or "rock is dead." For the past 7+ years, our mission has been to show how ALIVE the music we love is and how it's impacting our lives, hearts, and communities.

Teaming up with Area Code, we thought now was a great time to reimagine what we call this thing. Our original tagline of Long Live the Music captures the heart, energy, and passion behind what we do. We're excited for this new chapter of our show. We hope you'll follow along!

https://www.itsalldead.com

https://www.areacodenetwork.com

The Return of Architects with Drew Beringer

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

A new album from Architects has arrived and it is very, very good. For Those That Wish to Exist serves as the beginning of a new chapter for the band and a wake up call for those that wish to deny the effects of climate change. All told, there’s a lot to unpack, so we reached out to Drew Beringer to join the podcast and break down his thoughts on the new album, the legacy of Architects, and their impact on the heavy music scene.

Drew shares a bit of his background in joining the AbsolutePunk.net staff and Chorus.fm community before diving into his track-by-track breakdown of For Those That Wish to Exist, including his interview with Architects drummer Dan Searle. Drew also gives his ranking of Architects’ Epitaph Records albums and shares his favorite songs from the new album. Take a listen!

Our Most Anticipated Music of 2021

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 10:00:00 -0400

In many ways, it's harder than ever before to know what to expect from the world of music in 2021. Did our favorite artists use quarantine downtime to create? Will there be live shows? Who knows! But we're here to speculate.

Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Alves and Kyle Schultz to discuss the music they'd most like to hear in the new year, including new albums from the likes of Weezer, Kendrick Lamar, Julien Baker, AFI, Travis Scott, Lorde and more. They also discuss the difficult nuances around creativity in the midst of depression and why many artists may need more time to bounce back. And finally - what are the chances that we'll be able to safely attend a live music even in 2021? Take a listen!

Interview with Pitchfork's Rawiya Kameir

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 10:00:00 -0400

Pitchfork's Rawiya Kameir recently joined Kiel Hauck to share some thoughts on how music journalists can take steps toward elevating a more diverse range of voices and have better conversations about the music they’re covering. She also shares her experience as a music critic during a rapidly evolving digital age, as well as the challenge facing music journalists and music fans when it comes to maintaining objectivity and responsibility when examining the work created by problematic artists. Take a listen

Analyzing Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Recently, Rolling Stone updated their list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. And guess what? There's plenty to discuss. The It's All Dead crew (Kiel Hauck, Kyle Schultz, and Nadia Alves) hopped on the podcast to make sense of it all.

The trio each share their thoughts on some of their favorite (and least favorite) rankings on the list, discuss the list's welcomed and overdue shift toward diversity, and talk about a few albums that deserved to make the cut but didn't. They also ponder how one might separate art from artist while making a list of this nature and how we can accurately and fairly look back on music and events from previous decades. Take a listen!

Interview with Hanif Abdurraqib

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Hanif Abdurraqib is a poet, essayist, and cultural critic from Columbus, Ohio, who has recently launched a new project called 68to05 in which he pinpoints the arc of years that made him the music listener and lover he is today. Hanif joined Kiel Hauck on the latest episode of It's All Dead to discuss the project and how he is tracing his musical influence and lineage forward and backwards. He also discusses the ways in which music education in America is flawed and what we lose when black artistic influence is erased or forgotten. Listen in!

The Best of Taylor Swift

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400

It's summer and we've got nowhere to go, so why not go ahead and rank the albums from Taylor Swift? Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz as they share their personal journey with one of this generation's musical icons and discuss how her fascinating transition from country to pop. The duo break down all seven studio albums from Taylor Swift and rank their top 10 songs from her discography. They also share their thoughts on Taylor's legacy as a musician and one of our largest pop culture figures. Listen in!

Building the Perfect Summer Music Festival

Tue, 12 May 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Unfortunately, we won't be celebrating in the sun this summer while attending our favorite music festivals, so we decided to dream big. What if we could create the perfect lineup for our own summer music festival? Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz and Nadia Paiva on the latest podcast as they take turns selecting bands to fill out their lineup card. The catch? Each band must be selected from a specific year and no two bands can appear on the same lineup. Fun and chaos ensue. Listen in!

Making Sense of Childish Gambino's "3.15.20"

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Last month, a surprise new album from Childish Gambino hit the web with little promotion and few details. A month later, we're still trying to figure out 3.15.20. On this episode of the podcast, Kiel Hauck is joined by Richard Clark to discuss the twists and turns of the new album and debate 3.15.20's place in Childish Gambino's discography. They also take a look back at the artistic growth of Donald Glover, one of the most fascinating pop culture figures and artists of our time. Take a listen!

Dua Lipa's Rise to Pop Stardom with Evan Sawdey

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 09:00:00 -0400

A new album from Dua Lipa is here - and it is good. Future Nostalgia sees the U.K. singer rising to pop stardom amidst an array of disco hits. Kiel Hauck welcomes Evan Sawdey of PopMatters onto the podcast to discuss Future Nostalgia and how Dua Lipa's new music arrives at the perfect time. The two break down the album's highlights, discuss what could be the strangest summer for music in history, and share their way too early album of the year candidates. Listen in!

Music Therapy During the Covid-19 Lock-In

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 09:00:00 -0400

It's been a strange few weeks, to say the least. As the country takes measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus, we take some time on our podcast to discuss how we're handling a new reality. Kiel Hauck, Kyle Schultz and Nadia Paiva discuss how music is providing comfort during this time, debate the best band discographies to binge, and share some of the new music released in 2020 that has left its mark. Take a listen.

Interview with Telle Smith of The Word Alive

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0400

It's been over 10 years since Phoenix metalcore act The Word Alive dropped their debut album, Deceiver. Since that time, the band has evolved into something completely new, as best captured on their latest release, Monomania. Lead vocalist Tyler "Telle" Smith joins Kiel Hauck to discuss the band's sixth album and how The Word Alive has continued to push themselves to create something that not only impacts their fans but stands the test of time. Listen in!

Interview with Shane Told of Silverstein

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 10:00:00 -0400

Believe it or not, Canadian post-hardcore act Silverstein are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. Lead vocalist Shane Told joined the It's All Dead Podcast to discuss the band's longevity and growing legacy. He also shares details about Silverstein's upcoming album A Beautiful Place to Drown, the band's 20th anniversary tour with Four Year Strong, and his highly successful Lead Singer Syndrome podcast. Listen in!

The Rebirth of Hayley Williams

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 18:10:39 -0400

This week, a new EP from Paramore vocalist Hayley Williams titled Petals for Armor is expected to drop. After having time to sit with the first two official solo tracks of her career, Kiel Hauck and Nadia Paiva hop on the podcast to break down their thoughts on "Simmer" and "Leave it Alone". They also discuss their expectations for the new release, what sonic direction they anticipate Williams taking, and how her growth as an artist over the past 15 years have led us to this moment. Listen in!

The Best Albums of the 2010s

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 10:00:00 -0400

With the 2010s about to come to a close, we recently took on the task of ranking what we believe to be the Best 30 Albums of Decade. But of course, the written word can only convey so much about how we feel about these albums, so Kiel, Nadia and Kyle hopped on a podcast to break down their choices and discuss the sounds that defined the decade. The trio discuss their parameters for making the list and share the albums that just missed the cut. Take a listen!

Cove Reber Reflects on Saosin's "In Search of Solid Ground"

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 09:00:00 -0400

Ten years have passed since post-hardcore act Saosin released In Search of Solid Ground, the final album to feature lead vocalist Cove Reber. On the latest episode of It's All Dead, Reber joins Kiel Hauck to reflect on the events leading up to and during the recording of the album and discuss why its legacy has changed so dramatically over the past decade. Reber shares stories from the studio and explains how tensions within the band impacted his experience in creating the record. Listen in!

Making Sense of Blink-182's "Nine"

Wed, 09 Oct 2019 09:00:00 -0400

It's been three weeks since the release of Blink-182's new album Nine, so Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz hop on the podcast to break down the release. The two discuss their opinions on the new album, break down their favorite tracks, and attempt to rank it within the rest of Blink-182's discography. They also share their opinions about the band's music since their 2009 reunion and discuss the band's legacy after two solid outings in Nine and California. Listen in!

Summer 2019 and the Death of Genre

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 09:30:00 -0400

This year's song of the summer is undeniable, but what does it tell us about the future of music? Evan Sawdey of PopMatters joins Kiel Hauck to break down the success of "Old Town Road", the rise of Billie Eilish, and the odd absence of some of pop music's biggest stars on the charts this summer. They also discuss Taylor Swift's new album, Lover, break down their "deserted island discographies," and share their most anticipated albums set to release in the back half of 2019. Listen in!

Perusing Our Spotify "Made For You" Playlists

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 09:00:00 -0400

As summer winds down, Kiel Hauck and Nadia Paiva pull open the Spotify app to walk through their playlists. A few years ago, the streaming service began utilizing machine learning to curate a variety of endless playlists based on your listening habits. Kiel and Nadia discuss how this technology has changed the way they listen to music and helped them discover new artists before debating whether these advances are inherently good in terms of our overall experience with art. Take a listen!

Talking Emo Music with Taylor Markarian

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0400

On the latest It’s All Dead podcast episode, Kiel Hauck is joined by Taylor Markarian, author of From the Basement: A History of Emo Music and How it Changed Society. Taylor has written for publications like Alternative Press, Kerrang, and Revolver. Her new book explores the cultural, social, and psychological factors surrounding emo and indie music. On the podcast, Taylor shares about her years growing up in the New Jersey punk and emo scene and the importance of music in mental health. Take a listen!

The Best of Eisley

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 13:54:43 -0400

Over the past decade and a half, Tyler, Texas, band Eisley have made a habit of releasing delightful, poignant, purposeful indie pop. On this episode of It's All Dead, Kiel Hauck and Nadia Paiva break down the band's discography, ranking all five full-length albums and sharing their top 10 songs. They also discuss the band's wild ride from their early major label breakthrough to their return to their indie roots. Listen in!

Interview with John Floreani of Trophy Eyes

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 09:00:00 -0400

Summer is in full swing, and with it comes an avalanche of summer music festivals. In its inaugural run, the Rockstar Disrupt Festival hosts a stacked lineup, including Newcastle, Australia, rock act Trophy Eyes. Vocalist John Floreani took some time out after one of the band's recent sets to chat with Kiel Hauck about his new solo album Sin, the sonic evolution of Trophy Eyes, and how festival life compares to a typical tour. Listen in!

The Best of Emery

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 09:00:00 -0400

Last month, Emery released a new 4-song EP as part of Emeryland, an interactive online community that promises exclusive new music leading up to the band’s eighth full-length album. Nadia Paiva joined Kiel Hauck on the pod to break down the band’s discography and discuss how their unique evolution has helped sustain their career and make them one of the most interesting bands to come from the modern post-hardcore genre. Listen in!

Carly Rae Jepsen Bracketology

Wed, 29 May 2019 09:00:00 -0400

Recently, Buzzfeed asked Carly Rae Jepsen to fill out a bracket to choose her best song. We thought this was funny, cool and interesting, so Kiel invited Carly Rae superfan Richard Clark to join the podcast and break down every matchup on the bracket. While dissecting some of Carly Rae's best tracks, the two discuss what has made her such a compelling pop artist, how her music has rapidly evolved since her breakout, and how her recent album, Dedicated, holds up against some of her best work.

Decade Rewind: Who Won the 2009 Hip Hop Title Belt?

Mon, 13 May 2019 09:30:00 -0400

Crossover episode! Kiel Hauck and Brock Benefiel recently launched a new show called Decade Rewind, and in the latest episode, the two discuss which rapper took home the hip hop title belt in 2009. We look back on the year that gave us Drake, Kid Cudi and Gucci Mane's breakout albums, a flurry of mixtapes, comeback attempts by Jay-Z and Eminem, and much, much more! Follow the podcast on Twitter @DecadeRewind and email us at decaderewindpod@gmail.com

Diving into Taylor Swift's New Track "Me"

Thu, 02 May 2019 09:00:00 -0400

There is new music from Taylor Swift and it is in the form of a song called "Me". Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz dive in to unpack the new single and talk about the career trajectories of Swift and Brendon Urie. They also break down the gorgeous music video for the track and speculate wildly on what Swift's upcoming album might bring. Listen in!

The Best of Copeland

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 10:00:00 -0400

Recently, heralded indie rock act Copeland released their sixth full-length album, Blushing. On our latest podcast episode, Kiel Hauck is joined by Kyle Schultz and Nadia Paiva to discuss the band's fantastic new record and the 16-year journey that brought them here. The trio also rank each Copeland album, break down their favorite songs from the band's discography, and discuss the legacy of a band that has clearly carved out its own place in indie music history. Listen in!

Who Won the 2018 Hip Hop Title Belt?

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 10:00:00 -0400

With another year in the books, Brock Benefiel drops by the It's All Dead podcast studio to chat with Kiel Hauck about which rapper took the Hip Hop Title Belt in 2018. The two discuss some of hip hop's hottest storylines of the year, break down 2018's best hip hop tracks, and look ahead to what might come in 2019. So who won the belt? The conversation includes candidates such as Cardi B, Drake, Travis Scott, Vince Staples, Pusha T, and many more. Listen in!

The Best Debut Albums of the Past 50 Years with Evan Sawdey

Wed, 16 Jan 2019 10:00:00 -0400

Renowned music journalist Evan Sawdey joins Kiel Hauck to discuss a recent feature for Yardbarker in which he named the best debut albums of the past 50 years, by year. During the conversation, Kiel and Evan debate the merits of Britney Spears' ...Baby One More Time, Arcade Fire's Funeral, Kanye West's The College Dropout and many more. Evan also discusses the power of a debut album and how it can set the stage for what's to come in an artistic career. Listen in!

The Best Music of 2018 (Part 2)

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 10:00:00 -0400

But wait, there's more! On this podcast, Kiel Hauck is joined by It's All Dead senior editor Kyle Schultz to talk further about the year in music. The two discuss the merits of Fall Out Boy's return with MANIA and how Brendon Urie of Panic! at the Disco ascended to new heights with Pray for the Wicked. They also break down releases from Architects, Justin Courney Pierre, Pusha T, and As It Is. Listen in!

The Best Music of 2018 (Part 1)

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 10:00:00 -0400

As 2018 comes to a close, the team at It's All Dead have crunched the numbers and compiled their lists of the best albums and best songs of the year. On this podcast, Kiel Hauck is joined by Nadia Paiva to break down some of the year's best music, including releases from Pianos Become the Teeth, The 1975, The Wonder Years, mewithoutYou, and much more. They also discuss what made music great in 2018 - both in terms of commentary and in terms of escape. Listen in!

Interview with Trenton Woodley of Hands Like Houses

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 10:00:00 -0400

On October 12, Canberra, Australia, rock band Hands Like Houses released their fourth full length album, Anon. As the band hits the road for their headlining U.S. tour, Kiel Hauck caught up with lead singer Trenton Woodley to discuss the new album and the band's sonic journey. Woodley also shares details about the band's songwriting progression over the years and how to evolve as an artist while bringing your fanbase along for the ride. Listen in!

Talking Lauryn Hill and Frank Ocean with Dissect's Cole Cuchna

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 10:00:00 -0400

As The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill turns 20, Cole Cuchna has launched a new mini-series on the classic album for his massively successful Dissect podcast. Cuchna joins Kiel Hauck to reflect on the album and its influence before delving into the work of Frank Ocean, as covered in season 3 of Dissect. Cuchna also shares details about his process when examining music and discusses how empathy continues to play a key role in his work. Listen in!

Interview with The Ringer's Lindsay Zoladz

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 10:00:00 -0400

On our latest podcast, Kiel Hauck talks with Lindsay Zoladz, music and pop culture critic with The Ringer. During the conversation, Zoladz talks about the evolution she's seen take place in music journalism during her time with The Ringer, Pitchfork, and more. Zoladz also shares about the obstacles still facing women in the music industry and what changes are long overdue. Listen in!

Reflecting on Five Years of It's All Dead

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 09:00:00 -0400

Five years ago, we had a crazy idea to launch a website and podcast called It's All Dead. On our latest podcast, Kiel and Kyle reflect on the past five years, sharing their favorite stories, reflecting on the albums that defined the half-decade, and determining which bands made the biggest impact. Thanks to all of our listeners and followers! Please leave us a review :)

The Best of Anberlin

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0400

Later this month, New Surrender turns 10 years old. Kiel Hauck and Nadia Paiva took the anniversary as an opportunity to discuss Anberlin's legacy and the impact of their major label debut. They break down Anberlin's discography, rank their favorite songs, and share some of their favorite memories of one of the most influential and underrated bands in the history of the scene. Listen in!

The Delightful Return of MxPx

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0400

Last month, pop punk legends MxPx returned with a surprise self-titled album that quickly became lauded as one of the band's best. On our latest podcast, Kiel Hauck is joined by Richard Clark of Christianity Today to discuss what makes the new album so much fun and how the band's reflections on growing up have resonated with their longtime fanbase. Listen in!

Our Favorite Summer Soundtracks

Thu, 16 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0400

Summer is almost over! What better way to hold onto the season than to reminisce on our favorite summer soundtracks. Kyle Schultz and Nadia Paiva join Kiel Hauck to break down some of their favorite albums to spin during summer and discuss what makes for great summer music. The trio chat about great releases from bands like Paramore, Green Day, Underoath, and much more. Listen in!

As It Is Talks About The Great Depression

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 09:00:00 -0400

On our latest podcast episode, Kiel Hauck catches up with Patty and Benjamin of As It Is at Warped Tour to discuss their upcoming album, The Great Depression. During the conversation, the two share their approach to discussing mental health and depression and how the subjectivity of art prevents it from offering firm answers. Instead, As It Is aims to have a more honest and open dialogue about the challenges of mental health and much more. Listen in!

Talking Warped with Derek Sanders of Mayday Parade

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 09:00:00 -0400

With Warped Tour making its final run, perhaps no band epitomizes the opportunity the tour has provided to up-and-coming bands as Mayday Parade. Kiel Hauck sat down backstage with lead vocalist Derek Sanders to discuss the band's start on the tour in 2006 and what it means to play on Warped's final run. Sanders also discusses the creation of the band's latest release, Sunnyland, and what he's learned in over 10 years of being on the road in Mayday Parade. Listen in!

Another Summer of Drake

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 09:30:00 -0400

Drake is back with another mammoth collection of songs, just in time for Summer 2018. On our latest podcast, Kiel Hauck talks with Drake fans Lowell Bieber and Chris Waflart about Drake's triumphs and misfires on list latest album, Scorpion. They also break down Drake's massive catalogue of songs, ranking some of the best (and worst) and dissect Drake's continuing cultural cache. Listen in!

Ye, Yeezus, and the Problem of Kanye West

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 09:30:00 -0400

Resident hip hop aficionado Brock Benefiel stops by It's All Dead to chat with Kiel Hauck about "Ye", the latest release from Kanye West. The two discuss their problems with the uneven album, the frustration that comes with Kanye fandom, and what to expect going forward. They also reflect on the five year anniversary of "Yeezus" and how the album has both held up and proven to be problematic. Listen in!

Interview with Chris Dudley of Underoath

Mon, 21 May 2018 09:30:00 -0400

Underoath is back on the road in support of their first album in eight years, Erase Me. Kiel Hauck caught up with Chris Dudley, master of keyboards, electronics, and synthesizers for the band, to discuss Underoath's return. During the conversation, Dudley shares how the band rebounded from their break-up, rekindled their friendships, and the peace they've found in creating the music they want to make. Listen in!

The Wonder Years Strike Again on "Sister Cities"

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 09:30:00 -0400

On our latest podcast, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz are joined by It's All Dead writer Nadia Paiva to discuss the latest release from The Wonder Years. During the discussion, the trio debate the merits of "Sister Cities" and dialogue about where the album lands among the band's best releases. They share their favorite songs from the album and talk about the band's knack for human stories and connecting with listeners. Listen in!

Shea Serrano on Rap Rivalries and the Social Power of Hip Hop

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 09:30:00 -0400

In 2017, Shea Serrano released his second New York Times Bestseller in "Basketball and Other Things", following up the smashing success of "The Rap Year Book". In our latest podcast, Shea joins Kiel Hauck to discuss rap rivalries and how competition impacts the genre. Serrano talks Kendrick Lamar, Nas, the political power of hip hop, and much more. Listen in!

Kanye West Bracketology - Making Sense of Kanye Madness

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 09:30:00 -0400

March Madness is here, which means lots of buzzer beaters, upsets, and, of course, endless arguments about the best Kanye West songs. Wait, what? After Kanye Madness goes viral, Kiel Hauck and Brock Benefiel sit down to parse through the Kanye West bracket and break down the various match-ups in hopes of finding Kanye's best song. The two also share their thoughts on why the bracket blew up the internet and what it means about Kanye's cultural relevancy in 2018. Listen in!

The Return of Dashboard Confessional

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 10:00:00 -0400

Nearly a decade after Dashboard Confessional took a break, Chris Carrabba has returned with a new album, "Crooked Shadows". Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz discuss the legacy of Dashboard Confessional, why the music still matters, and how the music of Dashboard has evolved through the years. Listen in!

Who Won the 2017 Hip Hop Title Belt?

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 11:00:00 -0400

With another year in the books, Brock Benefiel joins Kiel Hauck to discuss who won the hip hop title belt in 2017 (surprise, it's Kendrick). The duo also discuss other movers and shakers in the genre and predict what might come to pass in 2018, including new albums from Kanye West, Childish Gambino, A$AP Rocky and more. Listen in!

Unraveling Fall Out Boy's "MANIA"

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 11:00:00 -0400

"MANIA", the seventh full-length album from Fall Out Boy is here, and it is divisive. Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz record an emergency podcast to break down the band's latest release, discussing the tracklisting fiasco, how the album stacks up against a growing Fall Out Boy catalogue, and where the band goes from here. Listen in!

A Look Back at the Year in Music

Wed, 20 Dec 2017 10:00:00 -0400

With 2017 nearing completion, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz take a look back at the year in music. During the discussion, the two share some of their favorite albums from 2017, including Kendrick Lamar, AFI, Lucky Boys Confusion, Paramore and much more. They also talk about what could have been and reflect on recent music news that shaped the year. Listen in!

Interview with Matt Carter of Emery

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 10:00:00 -0400

In between his duties as co-founder of Bad Christian Media and hosting multiple successful podcasts, Matt Carter still finds time to shred as guitarist of post-hardcore band Emery. Matt recently talked with Kiel Hauck about what's involved in the making of one of this year's hit podcasts, "Labeled", how Emery reimagined some of their favorite songs for their recent release, Revival, and much more. Listen in!

Building an Online Music Community with Jason Tate of Chorus.fm

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 10:00:00 -0400

Jason Tate joins Kiel Hauck on our latest podcast to share what he's learned in the year since moving AbsolutePunk.net to Chorus.fm. Jason shares insight on how he built a built a successful online music community and the changes he's seen over the past two decades. Jason also discusses some of the best music of 2017 and his approach to creating end of the year lists. Listen in!

The Art of Music Criticism with PopMatters’ Evan Sawdey

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 10:00:00 -0400

On our latest episode of It’s All Dead, Kiel Hauck is joined by PopMatters Interviews Editor Evan Sawdey to discuss the art of the album review and the role of pop music in 2017’s social conversations. Evan also shares stories of some of his best (and worst) interviews at PopMatters, how the site has retained its cultural relevance and impactful voice through the years, and tells us about his podcast, The Chartographers. Listen in!

The Best Music of 2007

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0400

It's that special time of year! On our latest podcast, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz discuss the best albums of 2007. As another collection of great records turns 10, the duo reflects on classic albums from Paramore, Mayday Parade, Saves the Day, Motion City Soundtrack, Kanye West and more. Listen in!

Best Music of Autumn

Mon, 09 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the It's All Dead podcast, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz chat about the favorite albums to spin when autumn rolls around. The two also discuss what makes for a great fall album and why they're so nostalgic throughout the season. Listen in!

Interview with Dissect's Cole Cuchna

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0400

On this It's All Dead podcast episode, Kiel Hauck chats with Cole Cuchna, host of Dissect, a serialized music podcast. During the discussion, Cuchna explains his process for creating the podcast and his surprise in its unexpected growth in audience. He also shares his thoughts about empathy, Kanye West, and why hip hop is such a powerful art form. Listen in!

The Evolution of the Local Music Scene

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0400

On our latest episode, Kiel Hauck is joined by Nuvo Magazine editor Kat Coplen to discuss the evolving local music and festival scene in Indianapolis. Coplen shares her insight into how local artists are finding their audience and how the city can improve in attracting outside artists and bands. Listen in!

Jay-Z's Surprising Second Act

Tue, 25 Jul 2017 09:00:00 -0400

With the release of 4:44, Jay-Z has added to a now impressive second act of his career. Kiel Hauck and Brock Benefiel discuss the best of Jay-Z since The Black Album and how the rapper has maintained such extreme cultural relevancy. Listen in!

Predicting the Song of the Summer

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Summer is here! On this episode of the official It's All Dead Podcast, Richard Clark joins Kiel Hauck to discuss their favorite songs of summer and try to dissect where the phrase came from and what makes for a truly great Song of the Summer. Listen in!

The Best of Paramore

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Just last month, Paramore may have released the best album of their career in After Laughter, which is saying a lot for a band that already has a few classics under their belt. Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz reflect on the band's impact on the scene and their rapid rise to stardom while breaking down each of their albums and ranking their top 10 songs. Listen in!

The Brilliance of Kendrick Lamar's DAMN.

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 09:00:00 -0400

The new Kendrick Lamar album is officially here! Brock Benefiel joins Kiel Hauck to discuss DAMN. and how it fits within Kendrick Lamar's discography. The duo discuss Kendrick's growing legacy, the absence of a true rival and the variety of sonic and thematic ground covered on the new album. Listen in!

Interview with Garron DuPree of Eisley

Tue, 14 Mar 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Last month, indie pop act Eisley released their new album, I'm Only Dreaming. We caught up with Eisley bassist Garron DuPree to talk about the band's evolution, including how recent lineup changes impacted the creation of their latest record. We also talked about the future of the band and the freedom they feel in their current form. Listen in!

The Best of A Day to Remember

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 14:30:58 -0400

As A Day To Remember's breakthrough album For Those Who Have Heart turns 10 years old, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz break down the band's discography and share their favorite songs from the band. The discussion includes the band's evolution and how A Day to Remember won over legions of fans by being unrelentingly themselves. Listen in!

Who Won the 2016 Hip Hop Title Belt?

Mon, 09 Jan 2017 10:00:00 -0400

Another year is in the books and 2016 was filled with a variety of great music. But who stole the show in the world of hip hop? Kiel Hauck and Brock Benefiel discuss the theory of the hip hop title belt and which rapper dominated 2016 the most, including Chance the Rapper, A Tribe Called Quest, Kanye West and more. Listen in!

10 Years Later: My Chemical Romance - The Black Parade

Wed, 30 Nov 2016 10:00:00 -0400

It's hard to believe, but The Black Parade is officially 10 years old. Kyle Schultz and Kiel Hauck look back on a classic from My Chemical Romance and discuss it's impact on the scene, why the album was such a success, how it holds up a decade later, and the toll the album took on the band itself. Listen in!

Goodbye, Yellowcard

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 09:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead podcast, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz lament the parting of pop punk legends Yellowcard. During the discussion, the duo discuss the band's recent farewell self-titled record and break down the band's expansive discography. Take a listen!

Backstage at Vans Warped Tour 2016

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 09:00:00 -0400

It's summer and Warped Tour is here! On this episode of the official It's All Dead podcast, Kiel Hauck chats with bands backstage at this year's Warped Tour, including The Word Alive, State Champs and Against the Current. Get the inside details about the country's longest running music festival - listen in!

The Best Music of 2006

Mon, 20 Jun 2016 09:00:00 -0400

It's that time of year! Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz reflect on their favorite albums that were released in 2006. Included in the discussion are classic releases from Underoath, My Chemical Romance, Saosin, The Early November, Taking Back Sunday, Saves the Day and many more albums that are turning 10. Listen in!

Kendrick Lamar's Surprise Return

Wed, 06 Apr 2016 09:00:00 -0400

Last month, Kendrick Lamar dropped a surprise collection of eight songs titled Untitled Unmastered. Brock Benefiel and Kiel Hauck break down the release and discuss Kendrick's career arc, his impact on hip hop, and who will own the genre's title belt in 2016. Listen in!

The Best of Panic! at the Disco

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 09:00:00 -0400

With The Death of a Bachelor, Panic! at the Disco has scored their first number one album on the Billboard charts. Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz look back on the band's career and rank their best albums and dissect the band's top 10 songs. The duo also reflect on Brendan Urie's growth as a songwriter and status as one of pop/rock's best vocalists. Listen in!

Is The Life of Pablo Worth the Trouble?

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 10:00:00 -0400

Kanye West's new album, The Life of Pablo, is here - kinda. With all of the controversy surrounding the album's rollout, Kiel Hauck and Brock Benefiel discuss if the music is worth the cost. The two break down the music, but also discuss the problematic misogyny and the implications of Kanye's words. Listen in!

Grammys Recap 2016

Wed, 17 Feb 2016 10:30:00 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead Podcast, Kiel Hauck his joined by the person who helped him fall in love with music - his mom. The two discuss the 2016 Grammy Awards, breaking down various performances and events that took place during the event. During the discussion, they chat about moments involving Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Kendrick Lamar, The Eagles, Lionel Richie and much more. Listen in!

Kanye West Returns

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 10:00:00 -0400

Yeezy season approaches once again. With only a few weeks until the alleged release of Swish, the new album from Kanye West, Kiel Hauck and Brock Benefiel break down the events that have led up to this moment. A year full of random tracks, album name changes, and odd announcements and collaborations have left us anxiously anticipating Kanye's seventh full length solo album. Listen in!

Best Music of 2015

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 10:00:00 -0400

It's that special time of year! Time to count down the best albums and songs of 2015! Kiel and Kyle have a spirited conversation about great music from likes of Kendrick Lamar, The Wonder Years, Carly Rae Jepsen, The Early November, The Weeknd and much, much more. Listen in!

Taylor Swift, Fall Out Boy, and the Art of the Remix

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 09:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead Podcast, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz examine Ryan Adams' re-imagined "1989" and discuss the pros and cons of remixes and cover albums. They also speculate on the upcoming Fall Out Boy remix album and the "Punk Goes..." series. Listen in!

Riot Fest 2015 Preview

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 09:00:00 -0400

Riot Fest is right around the corner! Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz break down their most anticipated sets for each day of the festival and share their mutual love for one of the best music experiences in the country. They also discuss "No Closer to Heaven" - the latest release from The Wonder Years. Listen in!

The Best Music of 2005

Thu, 23 Jul 2015 09:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead Podcast, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz reflect on some of the best albums released in 2005, including classics from Paramore, Jack's Mannequin, The Academy Is..., Panic! at the Disco, Acceptance, Daphne Loves Derby and more - Listen in!

The Best of All Time Low

Thu, 18 Jun 2015 09:00:00 -0400

Fresh off of their highest charting release to date in Futute Hearts, pop punk kings All Time Low are flying high. Kyle Schultz and Kiel Hauck break down the band's best songs and rank each of their albums. During the discussion, they also speculate on the band's future and legacy. Listen in!

Best Album Openers & Closers

Fri, 03 Apr 2015 09:00:00 -0400

There's something about a great opening track that can set the tone for an entire album. Likewise, a killer closer brings things full circle and can leave you wanting more. On this episode of the official It's All Dead Podcast, Kiel and Kyle break down the best album openers and closers. Listen in!

The Best of Fall Out Boy

Fri, 27 Feb 2015 10:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead podcast, Kiel and Kyle rank Fall Out Boy's albums and share their top 10 favorite songs from the band. They also discuss the band's legacy and contemplate what the future may hold. Listen in!

Coming to peace with the blink-182 fallout

Thu, 29 Jan 2015 10:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead Podcast, Kiel Hauck and Kyle Schultz break down the recent blink-182 news and talk about what the future might hold for the band. They also discuss their favorite blink albums and songs and talk about why the band means so much to the scene. Listen in!

The Best Music of 2014

Wed, 31 Dec 2014 10:00:00 -0400

What were the best albums, songs, tours, and moments of 2014? Kiel Hauck and Kiel Schultz break down the year in music and share some of their favorite memories and moments that helped make 2014 special. The conversation includes reflections on Architects, Anberlin, Weezer, Yellowcard, Taylor Swift and much more!

Episode 009: Drake Season

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 10:00:00 -0400

Kiel Hauck chats with Richard Clark and Brock Benefiel about the cultural relevancy of Drake and his place in hip hop. They also dissect the similarities and differences between Drake and Kendrick Lamar and talk about who will have the greater legacy. Listen in!

Episode 008: The best albums of 2004

Fri, 15 Aug 2014 09:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead Podcast, Kiel and Kyle break down some of their favorite albums that turn 10 years old in 2014. The discussion includes classic releases from My Chemical Romance, Underoath, Taking Back Sunday, Relient K, Green Day and more!

Episode: 007 - The best of Kanye West

Wed, 04 Jun 2014 09:00:00 -0400

On the latest episode of the official It's All Dead podcast, Kiel Hauck sits down with fellow Kanye West fans Brock Benefiel and Jared Hay to break down the top 20 Kanye West songs and rank each of Kanye's solo albums. Listen in!

Episode: 006 - 5 Seconds of Summer and the state of pop punk

Fri, 16 May 2014 09:00:00 -0400

Kiel and Kyle talk about the sudden rise of 5 Seconds of Summer and what their success means for the pop punk community at large. They also break down the finalized lineup of this summer's Warped Tour.

Episode: 005 - Pigeon John interview

Mon, 31 Mar 2014 11:31:34 -0400

On this episode of the official It's All Dead podcast, Kiel interviews Los Angeles rapper Pigeon John about his new album "Encino Man", how being a father impacts his music and what he imagines for the future of hip hop.

Episode: 004 - Band reunions

Mon, 24 Feb 2014 17:00:00 -0400

The guys talk about the Saosin and Midtown reunions taking place at this year's Skate and Surf Festival and discuss the problem of fan entitlement. They also chat about recent releases from We Are the In Crowd, Issues and Bayside.

Episode: 003 - Most anticipated music of 2014

Mon, 20 Jan 2014 01:27:59 -0400

Kiel and Kyle chat about Paramore and Fall Out Boy's Monumentour, the early announcements for the 2014 Warped Tour, and their most anticipated releases of 2014.

Episode 002 - Best music of 2013

Fri, 06 Dec 2013 02:39:37 -0400

On the second episode of the offical It's All Dead Podcast, Kiel and Kyle chat about their favorite albums of 2013.

Episode 001 - Albums turning 10

Thu, 31 Oct 2013 04:00:00 -0400

On the first episode of the official It's All Dead podcast, Kiel and Kyle reminisce about numerous albums turning 10 years old in 2013.