Monster Shop: Iconic Albums Podcast

Join Neil and Chris on The Monster Shop as they explore the making of Faith No More’s genre-defying album The Real Thing. Released in 1989, this innovative record blended funk, metal, and alternative rock, shaping the future of 90s music. Featuring Mike Patton’s debut as lead vocalist, the album delivered iconic tracks like Epic, Falling to Pieces, and Zombie Eaters, becoming a cornerstone of alternative metal.   In this episode, we discuss Faith No More’s connection to the Bay Area thrash scene and their influence alongside bands like Metallica, Primus, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. We also explore how The Real Thing stood out among other groundbreaking releases of the era, such as Jane’s Addiction’s Nothing’s Shocking, Soundgarden’s Louder Than Love, and Living Colour’s Vivid.   Dive into the legacy of The Real Thing and how it shaped Faith No More’s career, influencing countless artists and cementing its place as a timeless classic. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the band, this episode uncovers the stories, innovation, and impact behind one of rock’s most important albums.

This week on The Monster Shop, Neil and Chris dive into Love/Hate’s electrifying debut album Blackout in the Red Room. Known for its raw energy, wild creativity, and standout tracks like Why Do You Think They Call It Dope?, this album was a bold statement in the early 90s rock scene. We explore the band’s rise from the Sunset Strip to cult status, the unique production style by Tom Werman, and the album’s mix of hard rock and sleazy charm. Whether you’re rediscovering Love/Hate or hearing their music for the first time, this episode celebrates the rebellious spirit of Blackout in the Red Room and its place in rock history.

In this episode of The Monster Shop, Neil and Chris dive into the making of Faster Pussycat’s self-titled debut album, a sleazy, swaggering masterpiece that helped define the glam metal scene of the late 80s. From gritty anthems like Bathroom Wall to the raw energy of Don’t Change That Song, we explore how the band captured the chaotic spirit of Hollywood’s Sunset Strip. Learn about the album’s production, its impact on glam metal, and how Faster Pussycat carved out a rebellious niche in the rock world. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or discovering the album for the first time, this episode celebrates the grit and glamour of one of glam metal’s most iconic debuts.

This week on The Monster Shop, Neil and Chris delve into Queensrÿche’s Operation: Mindcrime, a revolutionary concept album that redefined progressive metal. Known for its intricate storytelling, powerful vocals by Geoff Tate, and standout tracks like Eyes of a Strangerand Revolution Calling, the album captures themes of corruption, control, and rebellion. We explore the album’s production, led by Peter Collins, its narrative brilliance, and its impact on both fans and the metal scene. Whether you’re a long-time Queensrÿche fan or new to Operation: Mindcrime, this episode uncovers the artistry and legacy of one of metal’s most iconic records.