Scott Penfold sits down with Crispin Earl and Shane Lyons for a double-feature podcast episode that delivers insight, passion, and context around two standout heavy releases of 2026. Shane discusses Varials' new album Where The Light Leaves — which arrived on February 27 via Fearless Records — and his influences, including a particular guitarist from Lamb Of God and working with producer Josh Schroeder. Crispin breaks down The Veer Union's Reinvention — released February 20 via Arising Empire — and the band's unique journey, including their outsized success in the U.S. compared to Canada.

In an era where nostalgia runs rampant, both guests feel like they're writing the next chapter — not revisiting the last one. That mindset fuels this episode from the jump.

In this week's Loaded Radio Podcast, Mike Hranica opens up in a raw, introspective conversation touching on The Devil Wears Prada's latest album Flowers, his changing worldview, and the personal evolution that continues to shape both his art and identity.

Mike Hranica joins Loaded Radio for a revealing, unfiltered discussion about Flowers, why some fans don't view it as a "metal" album, how his perspective as an American has evolved, and the deeply personal shift away from the faith that once defined him.

Alongside the in-depth conversation with Mike Hranica, this episode also dives into major developments across the hard rock and metal landscape.

Listeners will also hear:

• Discussion surrounding Arch Enemy's new vocalist and the band's next era
• Reaction to Alex Van Halen's emerging "Eddie Van Halen" project with Steve Lukather
• A featured segment: 13 Artists Every Deftones Fan Needs To Check Out

It's a packed episode balancing artist insight with scene-wide perspective.

Biohazard guitarist/vocalist Billy Graziadei joins the Loaded Radio Podcast to discuss the band's first new album in years, Divided We Fall, why the record reflects a deeply fractured world, how the band's reunion reshaped their creative chemistry, touring with Sepultura, and his long-standing admiration for Type O Negative — including his openness to participating in a tribute to the late Peter Steele.

In the second half of the show, host Scott Penfold breaks down major hard rock and heavy metal news, including the passing of 3 Doors Down vocalist Brad Arnold, updates on a new Korn album, the cancellation and finality of Twisted Sister, and the evolving Milwaukee Metal Fest lineup.