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PODCAST

Mandatory Music

Michael Heide and Sebastian Kwapich

Welcome to Mandatory Music! A podcast about the craft of music.Join Mike and Sebastian as they unravel the depths of song writing, musicianship and great artists. Each season centres on one particular band, with a deep dive into specific songs that delve into their creation, sound and complexity. It is within song and harmony, melody and rhythm that our emotional heartbeat echos.It has been said that "Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination,

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All Episodes

35:06

Episode 62- Iron Maiden: Run for your lives tour Review

Mandatory Music ·

2025/06/04

We would love to hear from you!! Send us a text In this episode, Sebastian and Michael discuss Iron Maiden's recent 'Run For Your Lives' tour, reflecting on their personal experiences and the setlist choices. They delve into the band's legacy, the significance of their albums, and the expectations fans have for live performances. The conversation highlights the balance between deep cuts and popular songs, as well as the intricacies of Iron Maiden's music and stage presence. In this conversati...

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49:18

Range, Grit, Soul: The Voices That Rule Them All

Mandatory Music ·

2025/05/27

Summary In this episode of Mandatory Music, hosts Michael and Sebastian dive into their top five favorite vocalists across various genres, discussing the impact and unique styles of each singer. They explore the personal connections to these artists, the diversity in vocal abilities, and the cultural significance of Canadian musicians. The conversation highlights the importance of vocalists in music and how their styles resonate with listeners. In this engaging conversation, Sebastian and M...

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24:12

Modern Vibes, Grunge Feels: Slug Comparison Returns

Mandatory Music ·

2025/05/22

This week on Mandatory Music, we're spotlighting some homegrown Canadian talent. Doug Harrison—frontman and guitarist of prog band Fen—returns with his solo project Slug Comparison, and we dive into the opening track of the new album A Battle to the End Fought on the Edge of a Knife. The song "Wish to Adapt" is a breath of fresh air for us: modern, emotionally rich, and laced with just enough grunge to hit us right in the feels. We break down what makes this track—and Slug Comparison's overal...

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25:01

Episode 59 – The Beat Goes Blue: Blue Man Group x...

Mandatory Music ·

2025/05/15

This week on Mandatory Music, we dive into an unexpected but seriously cool collaboration — the Blue Man Group is back with a brand-new single, “Things,” featuring the incredibly talented After Cooking. That’s right… Blue Man Group! It’s all about rhythm, vibe, and groove in this episode as we explore this hypnotic, beat-driven track and what makes it such a standout. Sit back, press play, and enjoy the ride through this chill and creative sonic experience. We would love to hear from you!! Se...

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45:21

Album review: Ghost Skeleta

Mandatory Music ·

2025/05/07

We're Back – and So Is Ghost! After a 3-week break, Mandatory Music returns with a bang as we dive into Ghost’s brand-new album Skeleta. We give our unfiltered take on the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Is it a bold new chapter or more of the same? Tune in as we break it all down with our signature mix of insight and brutal honesty. We would love to hear from you!! Send us a text Mandatory Music is proudly hosted and produced by Michael Heide and Sebastian Kwapich Contact Mandat...

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27:25

Volbeat: In the Barn of the Goat.......

Mandatory Music ·

2025/04/15

This week on Mandatory Music, we dive horns-first into Volbeat’s blistering new track “In the Barn of the Goat: Giving Birth to Satan's Spawn in a Dying World of Doom.” Is Michael Poulsen stepping up as the new Metal Elvis, ready to snatch the crown from Glenn Danzig himself? We break down the riffs, the vocals, and the epic energy of the song in classic Mandatory Music style—with a killer conversation to match. But first… we talk golf. Yes, you read that right—before the doom and devilry, we...

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34:30

Sleep Token: Emergence

Mandatory Music ·

2025/04/09

This week on Mandatory Music, tensions rise as Sebastian and Mike dive into Sleep Token's brand-new track, “Emergence.” For one of the first times on the show, the duo finds themselves on opposite sides—sparking a passionate, thought-provoking debate. They unpack the haunting lyrics, dissect the song's construction, and explore the intricate layers of its production. Is “Emergence” a bold new chapter or a step too far? Tune in for a deep dive, some heated takes, and a whole lot of sonic analy...

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30:18

Ghost: Satanized

Mandatory Music ·

2025/04/01

A chilling new hymn has emerged from the depths—Ghost’s latest track, Satanized. This week on Mandatory Music, we dive deep into its haunting melodies, cryptic lyrics, and the eerie energy it conjures. How does it compare to their past works? What secrets lie within the song? We break it all down. But first, a bit of unexpected chaos—a discussion on facial hair (because why not?), and Sebastian’s recommendation of the brutal Netflix film Sisu. Join us for a thrilling ride through sound, story...

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26:47

Volbeat: By a Monster's Hand

Mandatory Music ·

2025/03/26

This week on Mandatory Music, we dive into Volbeat's new single, By a Monster’s Hand! We break down what we liked, what didn’t quite hit the mark, and how Volbeat continues to wear their influences on their sleeves. Plus, we bring back some Metallica talk for the first time in a while—Kirk Hammett has a new book about his legendary guitar collection, he’s announced a full-length solo record, and we dissect the small hints about what the next Metallica album might sound like. Tune in for all t...

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34:32

Episode 53: Arch Enemy’s “Paper Tiger” – Unleashing...

Mandatory Music ·

2025/03/20

In this episode of Mandatory Music, we dive deep into Arch Enemy’s “Paper Tiger” — a track that delivers pure, unrelenting energy. From the moment Alissa White-Gluz’s ferocious growls cut through the mix to Michael Amott’s razor-sharp riffs, this song is a masterclass in melodic death metal. We unpack the song’s powerful themes of defiance and exposing hypocrisy, exploring how the lyrics tear down deception with brutal honesty. But that’s not all — we also break down the intricate guitar work...

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24:18

Shadows & Sound: The Mystery of Afterglow

Mandatory Music ·

2025/03/11

A storm brews on the horizon, and from the depths of darkness emerges Afterglow, the crushing new track from Dark Chapel, led by the formidable Dario Lorina of Black Label Society. Haunting melodies, bone-crushing riffs, and an eerie atmosphere make this song more than just music—it’s an experience. Tonight, we step into the shadows, peeling back the layers of this ominous masterpiece. What secrets lie within its walls of sound? Join us as we unravel the mystery, one heavy note at a time. Are...

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32:47

Episode 51: Unraveling The Deadfall – Joe Holmes’...

Mandatory Music ·

2025/03/05

This week on Mandatory Music, we dive into The Deadfall, the latest project from legendary guitarist Joe Holmes. We break down the song’s intricate arrangement, its striking melodies, and its unique use of dissonant notes that set it apart. But we don’t stop there—we explore Holmes’ fascinating journey, from his early days in the music scene to his time with Ozzy Osbourne and beyond. Join us as we unpack the artistry of a guitarist who continues to push boundaries in heavy music. Listen now a...

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36:39

Episode 50: The Haunting Echoes of 'Rooster' by Alice...

Mandatory Music ·

2025/03/03

Tonight, we took a deep dive into the haunting track Rooster by Alice in Chains. From its chilling melodies to its raw, emotional lyrics, we explored the song’s powerful storytelling, the personal history behind it, and the way it captures the weight of war and survival. Join us as we break down the eerie atmosphere, Layne Staley’s haunting vocals, and the emotional depth that makes Rooster one of the most unforgettable songs in rock history. The Link for the isolated bass track https://www.b...

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28:14

Episode 49 – Black Label Society’s Lord Humungus: A...

Mandatory Music ·

2025/02/27

This week on Mandatory Music, Mike and Sebastian dive into the sheer heaviness of Black Label Society’s thunderous track Lord Humungus. From Zakk Wylde’s signature blistering riffs to the song’s relentless groove, they break down what makes this track a headbanger’s dream. They also discuss its Mad Max-inspired themes, crushing guitar tones, and how it fits into BLS’s catalog. Grab a drink, crank up the volume, and join the conversation! We would love to hear from you!! Send us a text Mandato...

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38:08

Episode 48 – Led Zeppelin’s 'Ten Years Gone'

Mandatory Music ·

2025/02/19

This week on Mandatory Music, we take a deep dive into Led Zeppelin’s 'Ten Years Gone.' But before we get into the heart of Zeppelin, we briefly revisit Black Sabbath’s final show. From there, we break down the emotion, composition, and songwriting behind 'Ten Years Gone' and touch on Zeppelin’s live performances. Unfortunately, we ran into some audio issues, so the episode ends abruptly—but hey, that’s rock and roll! Tune in and enjoy the ride. We would love to hear from you!! Send us a text...

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37:46

🎧 Episode 47: Wardruna’s “Birna” & The End of an Era...

Mandatory Music ·

2025/02/13

In this episode of Mandatory Music, we journey into the mystical soundscapes of Wardruna’s “Birna” from their newest album. We break down the powerful storytelling, haunting melodies, and the use of ancient instruments that bring their music to life. 🎶✨ But that’s not all—we also reflect on the final Black Sabbath concert, marking the end of an era for one of rock’s most legendary bands. From unforgettable setlists to the legacy they leave behind, we share our thoughts on this monumental

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32:10

The Grammy's Review

Mandatory Music ·

2025/02/05

In this episode, the hosts discuss the recent Grammy Awards, focusing on Gojira's win for best metal performance and their groundbreaking performance at the Olympics. They explore the significance of the Grammys in the music industry, the unique sound of Gojira, and the impact of AI on music production. The conversation also touches on notable Grammy winners, the Beatles' new release, and the current landscape of popular music, including Taylor Swift's absence from the awards. Personal update...

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38:28

Mastodon-Teardrinker and Other Musings

Mandatory Music ·

2025/01/29

In this episode, Michael and Sebastian dive into a variety of topics, starting with their frustrations about football and the upcoming Super Bowl. They share personal stories about family bonding during community events, discuss tattoos, and reflect on their gambling experiences. The conversation wraps up with a music recommendation, highlighting the band Mastodon and their song 'Teardrinker.' In this engaging conversation, Sebastian and Michael delve into the musical intricacies of the band ...

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29:33

Reacting to Puscifer: Unveiling the Layers of Momma Sed

Mandatory Music ·

2025/01/22

This week on Mandatory Music, Sebastian and Mike embark on a transformative journey into the haunting world of Puscifer’s Momma Sed. For Mike, it’s a first-time listen that sparks raw, unfiltered reactions, as the duo unravels the song’s hypnotic melodies, poetic lyrics, and the surreal dreamscape it conjures. Prepare for an emotional deep dive into a track that lingers long after the final note fades.We would love to hear from you!! Send us a textMandatory Music is proudly hosted and produce...

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43:01

Iron Maiden-Hell on Earth

Mandatory Music ·

2025/01/16

Welcome back to another episode of Mandatory Music. Tonight, we venture into the shadowy realm of Iron Maiden’s haunting epic, ‘Hell on Earth.’ As the final chapter of their 2021 album Senjutsu, this 11-minute odyssey pulls us into a world of apocalyptic visions, chilling reflections, and dark philosophical truths.Through cryptic lyrics and soaring melodies, Maiden conjures a harrowing tale of chaos and resilience, leaving us to question: is this vision of hell already upon us? Or is it a war...

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82 results

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