Welcome to Riffology!, here we embrace the mid life crisis by revisiting the most iconic records from our youth. Join us as we discuss the horror of realising w...
Faith No More’s Angel Dust: The Dark Genius of a Genre-Defying Classic
Faith No More’s Angel Dust was bold, bizarre, and brilliant—an album that shattered expectations and divided fans. In this episode of Riffology, we explore how Mike Patton and the band pushed boundaries with their unique fusion of metal, funk, and experimental rock.
We’ll break down the album’s standout tracks, analyze its twisted themes, and debate its place in rock history. Plus, we share personal stories, suffer through some inconvenient illnesses, and, of course, throw in some classic Riffology banter.
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1:22:17
The Making of Countdown to Extinction by Megadeth
In this episode of Riffology, Neil and Chris dive into Megadeth’s 1992 masterpiece, Countdown to Extinction. From its politically charged themes to its razor-sharp riffs, this album marked a turning point for Dave Mustaine and company, catapulting them into mainstream metal success.
The duo unpacks the creation of the album, the band’s transition from thrash metal pioneers to a more refined, accessible sound, and the cultural impact of tracks like Symphony of Destruction, Sweating Bullets, and Foreclosure of a Dream. They also discuss how Countdown to Extinction was Megadeth’s response to Metallica’s Black Album, and how it cemented their legacy in the heavy metal scene.
Expect insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and a discussion on whether this was the album where Megadeth truly peaked. Tune in for another deep dive into one of metal’s most essential records!
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1:11:59
The Making of Iowa by Slipknot
This week on Riffology, Neil and Chris take a brutal deep dive into Slipknot’s ferocious second album Iowa. Released in 2001, this uncompromising record pushed the limits of nu-metal and cemented Slipknot’s status as one of the heaviest and most influential metal bands of the era. Featuring punishing tracks like People = Sht*, Disasterpiece, and Left Behind, Iowa captured the band at their rawest and most aggressive.
In this episode, we explore the chaotic recording process, the internal struggles that fueled the album’s intensity, and producer Ross Robinson’s role in shaping its violent, visceral sound. We also discuss Slipknot’s place in the evolving metal scene of the early 2000s alongside bands like Korn, System of a Down, and Mudvayne.
Tune in as we uncover the story behind Iowa—an album that redefined heaviness and became a modern metal classic.
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1:17:42
The Making of Stoosh by Skunk Anansie
This week on The Monster Shop, Neil and Chris dive into Stoosh, the explosive second album from Skunk Anansie. Released in 1996, this record cemented the band’s place in the alternative rock scene, blending raw energy, political themes, and powerhouse vocals from Skin. With standout tracks like Hedonism (Just Because You Feel Good), Twisted (Everyday Hurts), and Brazen (Weep), Stoosh was a bold statement that resonated with fans worldwide.
In this episode, we explore the making of the album, its unique fusion of punk, grunge, and hard rock, and how Skunk Anansie challenged social norms with their powerful lyrics. We also discuss Stoosh in the context of the 90s alternative scene alongside bands like Garbage, No Doubt, and Rage Against the Machine.
Tune in for an in-depth look at one of the most underrated yet influential albums of the decade.
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1:30:40
The Making of Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette
In this episode of The Monster Shop, we take a deep dive into Jagged Little Pill, the defining 1995 album by Alanis Morissette. A raw and unfiltered exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, this record became a cultural phenomenon, selling over 30 million copies worldwide. We discuss the album’s most iconic tracks, from the fiery anger of You Oughta Know to the reflective lyricism of Ironic and Hand in My Pocket, examining how Alanis’ confessional songwriting and Glen Ballard’s production shaped an entire generation of alternative rock.
Join us as we explore the stories behind the songs, the impact of the album on 90s music, and why it remains just as powerful today. Whether you were there in 1995 or are discovering Jagged Little Pill for the first time, this episode is essential listening for anyone interested in rock history, alternative music, and the evolution of female artists in the industry.
Welcome to Riffology!, here we embrace the mid life crisis by revisiting the most iconic records from our youth. Join us as we discuss the horror of realising we quite like some of the same things our parents did now. We talk about music too, if that’s your thing.