Big Talk with Chris and Gregg

Ep. 117 Bon Jovi - Bon Jovi - Review & Reaction! Bon Jovi's self-titled debut album, released on January 21, 1984, marked the beginning of the band's journey to rock stardom. Though it wasn't an immediate blockbuster, it laid a solid foundation for their later success and showcased the band's raw talent and potential. The album blends hard rock and pop-metal elements, establishing Bon Jovi's signature sound that would evolve and mature in subsequent releases. "Bon Jovi" helped to establish the band's presence in the rock scene during the 1980s, a time when glam metal and hard rock were gaining popularity. The album's success in the United States and internationally, particularly in Japan, contributed to the band's growing fan base and set the stage for their breakthrough with their third album, "Slippery When Wet." It also helped to define the rock sound of the 80s, blending catchy hooks, anthemic choruses, and relatable lyrics.

Ep. 116 Poison - Flesh N Blood - Review & Reaction! Released on June 21, 1990, Poison's third studio album, "Flesh & Blood," is a quintessential glam metal record that showcases the band's ability to blend catchy hooks, anthemic choruses, and a touch of bluesy grit. The album marked a significant point in Poison's career, both in terms of musical evolution and commercial success. It reached number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart and produced several hit singles that solidified Poison's place in the rock pantheon. "Flesh & Blood" came at a time when glam metal was peaking in popularity. The album's success contributed to the mainstream acceptance of the genre, bridging the gap between the more theatrical elements of 1980s rock and the rawer, more introspective sounds that would define early 1990s rock. Its mix of party anthems and introspective ballads captured the spirit of the era and influenced many subsequent bands in the glam and hard rock scenes.

Ep. 115 Mötley Crüe - Theater of Pain - Reaction & Review! Mötley Crüe's "Theater of Pain" is a significant album in the band's discography, marking a shift towards a more glam metal sound and away from the raw edge of their earlier work. Released in 1985, it showcased the band's ability to blend hard rock with catchy hooks and anthemic choruses, influencing the glam metal scene of the mid-'80s. "Theater of Pain" solidified Mötley Crüe's status as glam metal icons, contributing to the genre's mainstream popularity. The album's success helped pave the way for other glam metal bands and influenced the fashion and musical style of the era. It produced several hits that became staples in the band's live performances and music videos that became MTV favorites.

Ep. 114 Overkill - Years of Decay - Review & Reaction! Overkill's "The Years of Decay", released in 1989, is considered a classic in the thrash metal genre. Its blend of aggression, technical skill, and lyrical depth influenced many bands that followed. The album's success helped solidify Overkill's place in the metal pantheon and continues to inspire new generations of metal musicians.

Ep. 113 Megadeth - Peace Sells... But Who's Buying - Review & Reaction! Released in 1986, Megadeth's "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" is a cornerstone of thrash metal, showcasing the band's technical prowess, socio-political lyrics, and Dave Mustaine's distinctive snarling vocals. This album played a pivotal role in defining the thrash genre and influenced countless metal bands that followed. Influence of the Album "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" is considered one of the most influential thrash metal albums of all time. Its combination of speed, technicality, and lyrical depth helped solidify Megadeth's position as one of the "Big Four" of thrash metal, alongside Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax. The album's politically charged themes resonated with fans during the turbulent 1980s, and its title track, "Peace Sells," became an anthem for disaffected youth and a staple on MTV, thanks to its catchy bassline and provocative lyrics. "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" remains a seminal album in the metal genre. Its impact is still felt today, as it laid the groundwork for future generations of metal bands. The combination of technical skill, lyrical depth, and raw energy ensures its place in the pantheon of great metal records. If you're a fan of thrash metal, this album is an essential listen.

Ep. 112 Testament - The New Order - Review & Reaction Testament's "The New Order" album is a thrash metal masterpiece that solidified their place in the pantheon of heavy metal legends. Released in 1988, it was a defining moment for the band and the genre as a whole, showcasing their technical prowess, intense energy, and thought-provoking lyrics. 🤘 The album had a significant influence on the thrash metal scene, serving as a blueprint for many bands that followed. Its impact can still be felt today, with its relentless riffs and blistering solos inspiring countless musicians across the globe. 🎸 Overall, Testament’s "The New Order" is a timeless classic that continues to inspire metalheads around the world. Its influence on the genre cannot be overstated, and it remains essential listening for any fan of thrash metal. 🎶

We kick off our 3rd annual Heavy May-tal Month with an absolute classic! "Pantera's 'Cowboys from Hell' album is an absolute powerhouse of metal mayhem 🤘. Released in 1990, it marked a pivotal moment not only for the band but for the entire genre of heavy metal. Phil Anselmo's aggressive yet melodic vocals cut through the mix, delivering intense lyrics with raw emotion. Dimebag Darrell's guitar riffs were razor-sharp and instantly recognizable, showcasing his unparalleled talent and innovation. Rex Brown's bass lines added depth and heaviness to the sound, while Vinnie Paul's powerhouse drumming drove the songs forward with relentless energy. Influence-wise, 'Cowboys from Hell' had a seismic impact on the metal scene, inspiring countless bands and musicians to push the boundaries of the genre. Its combination of aggression, melody, and technical proficiency set a new standard for what metal could achieve, and its legacy continues to reverberate through the music world to this day." This album cemented Pantera's status as one of the most influential bands in metal history.

Ep. 110 Van Halen - 1984 -- Review & Reaction! 🎸 Van Halen's "1984" Album Review 🎸 Step into the time machine and journey back in time with Van Halen's groundbreaking album, "1984"! Join us as we dive deep into each track, exploring the electrifying guitar riffs of Eddie Van Halen, the pulsating rhythms of Alex Van Halen & Michael Anthony, and David Lee Roth's unparalleled vocals. Released on January 9, 1984, by Van Halen, stands as a monumental album in the annals of rock music, merging hard rock and synth-driven tracks in a way that became emblematic of the era's sound.

Ep. 109 Damn Yankees Self Titled Debut - Review & Reaction! 🎸🔥 Welcome to our latest episode, where we're diving deep into the rock supergroup sensation Damn Yankees and their electrifying self-titled debut album, "Damn Yankees"! 🌟 Released in 1990, this album burst onto the scene, delivering a blend of hard rock, heavy metal, and a touch of AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) that still resonates with fans today. 🌟 Review 🌟 Damn Yankees' debut album is a masterclass in '90s rock, offering a blend of anthemic rockers and heart-wrenching ballads. The supergroup, consisting of Ted Nugent, Tommy Shaw, Jack Blades, and Michael Cartellone, brought their A-game, crafting an album that's not only emblematic of its era but has stood the test of time. With "High Enough" leading the charge as the album's most recognizable track, the rest of the album provides a solid foundation that has captivated listeners for decades. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to Damn Yankees, this album is a rock and roll journey worth taking.

Ep. 108 The Top 10 WWE Intercontinental Title Matches at WrestleMania In this electrifying episode of The Big Talk Podcast, your hosts, Chris and Gregg, dive deep into the heart and soul of WrestleMania - the Intercontinental Championship matches that have left an indelible mark on the legacy of The Showcase of the Immortals. With a passion for the squared circle, they embark on a thrilling journey through time to rank the top 10 Intercontinental Title matches in WrestleMania history. From the high-flying antics and technical wizardry of the 1980s and 90s to the gritty, emotion-charged battles of the new millennium, Chris and Gregg provide detailed commentary on the matches that defined generations and the unforgettable moments that crowned champions and created legends. Whether it's the spectacle of WrestleMania III, the technical masterpiece at WrestleMania X, or the high-stakes drama of more recent showdowns, every match is a chapter in the storied history of the Intercontinental Championship. Listeners are treated to a mix of analysis, nostalgia, and spirited debate as Chris and Gregg share their personal memories of watching these epic encounters and how it shaped their love for professional wrestling. As the countdown to the number one spot unfolds, fans are invited to relive the excitement, the heartbreak, and the triumphs that have made the WWE Intercontinental Title a coveted prize at WrestleMania. It's a celebration of the moments that have captivated fans around the world and solidified the Intercontinental Championship's place in WrestleMania history. So, tighten your turnbuckle, grab your championship belt, and join Chris and Gregg for a journey through the top 10 WWE Intercontinental Title matches at WrestleMania. It's a slobberknocker of an episode that you won't want to miss! #WWEChampion #WWFChampion #IntercontinentalChampion #StoneColdSteveAustin #TheRock #TripleH #HulkHogan #BretHart #ShawnMichaels #RandySavage #UltimateWarrior #ChrisJericho #EddieGuerrero #RazorRamon #TheMiz #RicFlair #PedroMorales #SethRollins #CodyRhodes #Edge #WWE #WWF #WrestleMania #Undertaker #JohnCena #RomanReigns #DanielBryan #CharlotteFlair #BeckyLynch #EddieGuerrero #CMpunk #ChrisBenoit #RickySteamboat #KurtAngle

Welcome to the ultimate breakdown of Judas Priest's electrifying album "Invincible Shield." Dive into the raw power of heavy metal with this iconic release as we explore its dynamic tracks, thunderous riffs, and unforgettable melodies. Join us as we dissect each song, uncovering the album's themes, and discussing its impact on the metal genre. Don't miss out on this epic journey through the realms of metal mastery with Judas Priest's "Invincible Shield." In this episode, we delve into the legendary heavy metal band Judas Priest's monumental album "Invincible Shield." Join us as we unravel the layers of this groundbreaking release, exploring its sonic landscapes, lyrical depth, and enduring influence. From blistering guitar solos to powerhouse vocals, we dissect each track, offering insights into the band's creative process and the album's significance within the metal community. Tune in as we journey through the epic saga of Judas Priest's "Invincible Shield," celebrating its status as a true metal masterpiece.

Ep. 105 Black N' Blue's - Without Love - Review & Reaction! Black 'N Blue's "Without Love" is a hard rock gem that encapsulates the essence of the genre during the mid-1980s. Released in 1985, this album marked a pivotal moment in the band's career, showcasing their ability to blend melodic hooks with gritty, anthemic rock. The album kicks off with the energetic "Rockin' on Heaven's Door" & the title track, "Without Love," a powerful anthem that sets the tone for what's to come. Tommy Thayer's guitar work is a standout throughout the album, delivering memorable riffs and blistering solos. Vocalist Jaime St. James commands attention with his charismatic and raspy delivery, adding a distinctive touch to the band's sound. One of the highlights of the album is the infectious "Miss Mystery," a song that perfectly captures the spirit of 80s glam metal with its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo. The chemistry among the band members is evident, creating a synergy that propels the album forward. The ballad "Stop the Lightning" showcases a softer side of Black 'N Blue, displaying their versatility in crafting emotional and heartfelt compositions. The production quality of "Without Love" is commendable, with a polished sound that complements the band's polished yet edgy style. The album's overall mix strikes a balance between the raw energy of hard rock and the polished sheen of mainstream metal from that era. Tracks like "Swing Time" and "Nature of the Beach" continue to demonstrate Black 'N Blue's prowess in crafting catchy, radio-friendly rock tunes. The album maintains a consistent level of energy and enthusiasm from start to finish, making it an enjoyable listen for fans of 80s hard rock. While "Without Love" may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of its contemporaries, it remains a hidden gem in the hard rock landscape. The album's nostalgia-inducing qualities make it a must-listen for fans of the genre and a testament to Black 'N Blue's contribution to the vibrant musical scene of the mid-1980s. If you're a fan of anthemic choruses, impressive guitar work, and the overall spirit of 80s hard rock, "Without Love" deserves a place in your music collection.

Ep. 104 Extreme - Extreme II: Pornograffitti - Review and Reaction! Extreme's "Pornograffitti" is a groundbreaking album that seamlessly blends hard rock, funk, and glam metal, showcasing the band's exceptional musicianship and eclectic style. Released in 1990, the album gained widespread acclaim for its virtuoso guitar work, powerful vocals, and socially conscious lyrics. At the heart of "Pornograffitti" is the hit single "More Than Words," a ballad that reached the top of the charts and became one of the defining love songs of the era. The album also features other standout tracks such as "Decadence Dance," "Get the Funk Out," and "Hole Hearted," each showcasing Extreme's ability to navigate diverse musical genres with ease. Led by the dynamic vocals of Gary Cherone and the exceptional guitar skills of Nuno Bettencourt, Extreme crafted an album that transcends traditional rock boundaries. "Pornograffitti" explores themes of love, relationships, and societal issues with a unique blend of sincerity and musical sophistication. With its memorable hooks, intricate guitar solos, and emotionally resonant lyrics, Extreme's "Pornograffitti" remains a timeless masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, this album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the artistry of rock at its finest.

Ep. 103 Valentines Day Playlist - CONCEPT PLAYLIST - Gregg's Episode Just in time for Valentines Day!! Gregg unleashes his playlist for 2024. Where every song has a story, and every story has a song..... In a way that only Gregg can deliver! 1. "Don't Walk Away" - Danger Danger 2. "Just Another Night" - Wildside 3. "Mine" - Bulletboys 4. "Strength" - Enuff Z'Nuff 5. "I Love You" - Tesla 6. "Stormy" - 58 7. "Loveshine" - Motley Crue 8. "Glitter" - Motley Crue 9. "Smile" - Sixx:A.M. 10. "Jelly Roll" - Blue Murder 11. "Only Hurts Awhile" - Injected 12. "Let Me Go" - Marvelous 3 13. "Stare Too Long" - Corrosion Of Conformity 14. "I Thank You Child" - Zakk Wylde 15. "Save A Prayer" - Duran Duran 16. "Never Tear Us Apart" - INXS 17. "Don't Walk Away" - Rick Springfield

Ep. 102 Valentines Day Playlist - "LOVE" SONGS - Chris's Edition This episode is all about love.... Literally! This year Chris made his Valentines Day playlist all about songs that have the word "Love" in the title. We got everything here: Rock, Rap, Yacht Rock, and R&B... It's all here. So all you Lovers & Lovers In Training get ready...… To Feel The Love! 1. "Love Bites" - Def Leppard 2. "When You Love A Woman" - Journey 3. "I Need Love" - LL Cool J 4. "I've Been In Love Before" - Cutting Crew 5. "I Want To Know What Love Is" - Foreigner 6. "Glory Of Love" - Peter Cetera 7. "I Love You" - Climax Blues Band 8. What About Love?" - Heart 9. "Is This Love" - Whitesnake 10. "(I Can't Help) Falling In Love With You" - UB40 11. "It Must Have Been Love" - Roxette 12. "Making Love Out Of Nothing At All" - Air Supply 13. "Love Is On The Way" - Saigon Kick 14. "Feel Like Makin' Love" - Bad Company 15. "Love Of A Lifetime" - Firehouse 16. "Love Of My Life" - Queen 17. "When A Man Loves A Woman" - Percy Sledge

Ep. 101 Extreme's Self-Titled Debut Album! - Review & Reaction! Step back in time to the late '80s with Extreme's self-titled debut album, a musical journey that seamlessly blends hard rock with funk and showcases the band's virtuosity and raw energy. Released in 1989, this album marked the beginning of Extreme's career, setting the stage for their unique sound and paving the way for their later successes. Extreme's self-titled debut album, released in 1989, is a musical masterpiece that blends hard rock and funk, showcasing the band's virtuosity and raw energy. From the high-octane "Kid Ego" to the soulful ballad "Big Boys Don't Cry" and the infectious blend of rock and funk in "Flesh 'n' Blood," the album takes listeners on a journey through Extreme's unique sound. With powerful vocals by Gary Cherone and masterful guitar work by Nuno Bettencourt, this album established Extreme as a force to be reckoned with in the late '80s rock scene. Join us as we revisit this iconic debut, celebrating the band's ability to seamlessly merge genres and create timeless, anthemic tunes.

Ep. 100 Warrants Classic Album, "Cherry Pie" Welcome to the world of glam metal as Warrant takes center stage with their iconic album, "Cherry Pie." Released in 1990, this album encapsulates the essence of the genre, delivering a high-energy, feel-good experience that defined the era. "Cherry Pie" is a sonic journey that showcases Warrant's signature blend of catchy hooks, anthemic choruses, and unapologetically flamboyant style. The title track, "Cherry Pie," became an instant classic with its infectious melody and cheeky lyrics, earning its place as a timeless anthem of the glam metal scene. Throughout the album, Warrant demonstrates their musical prowess with a mix of hard-hitting rockers and heartfelt ballads. Songs like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" showcase the band's versatility, blending gritty guitar riffs with storytelling lyrics, while power ballads like "I Saw Red" tug at the heartstrings with emotional intensity. "Cherry Pie" not only solidified Warrant's place in the glam metal pantheon but also served as a soundtrack for the carefree and glamorous lifestyle of the late '80s and early '90s. The album's infectious energy and unabashed fun make it a must-listen for fans of the genre and a time capsule of an era when big hair, leather, and catchy hooks ruled the rock scene. So, join us as we dive into the glitter and glam of Warrant's "Cherry Pie" album – a quintessential piece of rock history that continues to captivate audiences with its irresistible charm and enduring appeal. Get ready to crank up the volume and relive the magic of one of glam metal's most iconic albums!

Ep. 099 Warrant's classic debut album, "DRFSR" - Review & Reaction! Welcome to the era of big hair, glam metal, and anthemic rock tunes with Warrant's explosive debut album, "Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich." Released in 1989, this album catapulted the Californian quintet into the mainstream spotlight, marking their territory with a perfect blend of catchy hooks, power ballads, and unapologetic glam aesthetics. Led by the charismatic and unmistakable vocals of Jani Lane, Warrant's "Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich" is a sonic rollercoaster that captures the essence of the late '80s glam metal scene. The album kicks off with the high-energy anthem "32 Pennies," setting the tone for what's to come – a wild ride through the excess and attitude of the Sunset Strip. At the heart of the album is the iconic power ballad "Heaven," a timeless classic that soared to the top of the charts and solidified Warrant's place in the glam metal pantheon. With its heartfelt lyrics and Lane's emotive delivery, "Heaven" became an anthem for a generation, striking a perfect balance between power and vulnerability. Tracks like "Down Boys" and "Sometimes She Cries" and a personal favorite, "Big Talk", showcase Warrant's ability to seamlessly blend sleazy riffs with infectious melodies, creating a sound that's both rebellious and irresistibly melodic. The album's title track, "Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich," is a swaggering, in-your-face declaration of rock 'n' roll hedonism, complete with shredding guitar solos and a party-ready attitude. Warrant's debut is a snapshot of a bygone era, capturing the spirit of a time when excess was celebrated, and the Sunset Strip was the epicenter of rock decadence. "Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich" remains a quintessential album for fans of glam metal, a sonic time capsule that transports listeners back to the heyday of teased hair, leather, and arena-sized rock anthems. Get ready to crank up the volume and relive the glory days with Warrant's unforgettable debut.

Ep. 098 Dokken' s Classic Album, "Under Lock and Key" - Review and Reaction! Welcome to the hard-hitting world of Dokken with their iconic album "Under Lock and Key." Released in 1985, this masterpiece showcases the band at the height of their prowess, delivering a perfect blend of heavy metal grit and melodic finesse. "Under Lock and Key" is a sonic journey that captures the essence of '80s metal, complete with blistering guitar solos, powerful vocals, and memorable hooks. The album is a testament to Dokken's ability to craft anthems that resonate with fans across generations. The opening track, "Unchain the Night," sets the tone with its infectious energy and driving rhythm. The album then takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions with tracks like "The Hunter" and "In My Dreams," where Don Dokken's vocals soar over George Lynch's electrifying guitar work. The balance of heavy riffs and catchy melodies is a hallmark of Dokken's sound, and it's perfectly exemplified in tracks like "It's Not Love." Dokken's "Under Lock and Key" is a classic album that has stood the test of time, continuing to captivate listeners with its timeless sound. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Dokken's music, this album is a must-listen that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of '80s metal. So, buckle up and let the power of "Under Lock and Key" transport you back to the golden era of rock.

Ep. 097 Dokken's Second Album, the Classic "Tooth and Nail" - Review and Reaction! In Ep. 097, Chris and Gregg step into the electrifying world of Dokken with their iconic album, "Tooth and Nail." Released in 1984, this powerhouse record is a quintessential piece of the hair metal and hard rock era, showcasing the band at the height of their musical prowess. Featuring the distinctive vocals of Don Dokken, the blazing guitar work of George Lynch, Jeff Pilson's thunderous bass, and Mick Brown's solid drumming, "Tooth and Nail" is a sonic journey that encapsulates the essence of '80s rock. The album is a perfect blend of melodic hooks, anthemic choruses, and blistering guitar solos that define the era's signature sound. The standout track, "Alone Again," is a power ballad that tugs at the heartstrings with its emotional lyrics and soulful delivery. Meanwhile, the album's title track, "Tooth and Nail," unleashes a relentless onslaught of energy, showcasing the band's raw intensity. "Tooth and Nail" solidified Dokken's place in the pantheon of rock legends, with its dynamic songwriting and polished production. The album's impact extends beyond its initial release, leaving an indelible mark on the genre and influencing countless bands that followed. Join us as we delve into the sonic landscape of Dokken's "Tooth and Nail" – a timeless classic that continues to resonate with rock enthusiasts, capturing the spirit of an era when big hair, leather, and unforgettable riffs ruled the airwaves.