Metalcore & Muscle

In this episode, we discuss 5 metalcore songs with heavy breakdowns that are guaranteed to help you get the most out of your toughest sets in the gym. We describe the songs in depth, providing lyrical analysis and highlighting the best breakdowns in each. For our fitness segment, we discuss the importance of having patience in the gym when striving to reach your fitness goals. Our episode rounds out with our selection for song of the week. Enjoy! Song of the Week: Ghost of a Smile by Dri...

In this episode we dive into some of the common ways that gym goers overcomplicate exercises along with effective solutions to simplify your gym routine and maximize your results. We then outline three songs from 2013 that likely went under your radar, discussing the lyrics and instrumentals within each song. Our episode concludes with our selection for song of the week; enjoy! Song of the Week: Forget It by Stray View Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

In this episode, we discuss some of what we believe are the pros and cons of modern metalcore, making a case for why we believe it is one of the best music genres. We then highlight some of the bands we believe exemplify modern metalcore. As usual, our episode concludes with our selection for song of the week, enjoy! Song of the Week: My Father's Son (redux) by The Amity Affliction Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

In this episode we review a research study summary from Examine.com that analyzed the accuracy of dietary supplement ingredient claims. We discuss things to look out for when buying dietary supplements, helpful resources to ensure you are buying accurate and pure supplements, and review some consumer health best practices. Our episode rounds out with our selection for song of the week. Enjoy! Song of the Week: Drag Me Under by Blessthefall ft. Alpha Wolf Article: What's really in your dietary...

In this episode, we breakdown our picks for the top 10 christian metalcore bands! Whether you are a Christian or not, we can all appreciate some great metalcore music! We breakdown some of our favorite songs by each band along with analyzing some of their lyrics that classify them within the Christian metalcore genre. Our selections are ranked based on lyrics/meaning, vocals, and instrumentals. Our episode rounds out with our selection for song of the week. Enjoy! Song of the Week: Insanely I...

Do you have trouble working out in the morning? Many people prefer to work out later in the day however, work schedules and daily responsibilities can often make mornings the only time available to workout. In this episode we highlight the pros and cons of morning workouts along with 4 helpful tips to get the most out of your morning workouts. This episode concludes with our selection for song of the week. Enjoy! Song of the Week: We'll Always Have Paris by Capstan Follow us on Inst...

In this episode, we discuss the impacts that physical activity has on mental health. We discuss personal experiences and highlight a research article that explores the role physical activity has on mental health and well-being. We also highlight a handful of songs that have impacted our mental health in a positive way. Lastly, the episode concludes with our selection for song of the week. Enjoy! Research Article: Role of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Well-Being: A Review - PMC (nih.g...

In this episode, we are discussing the latest EP from the band Still Stayer called ALL HEART. We discuss the band's background as well as a track-by-track breakdown/review. If you are a fan of bands like Invent Animate or ERRA you will love these guys and won't want to miss this episode! Our episode rounds out with our song of the week discussing a new track from the band A Sense of Purpose. Enjoy! Song of the Week: Reaching (For You) by A Sense of Purpose Follow us on Instagram @mc_musc...

In this episode, we discuss some of the common mistakes that beginners make when they first start training. We address each mistake and provide helpful tips to ensure that you begin your fitness journey on the right track. The episode then transitions into our Song of the Week selection where we highlight three of the best tracks that were recently released. Thanks for listening! Songs of the Week: Ronald by Falling in ReverseVeil Walker by Our Hollow, Our Home Overtime by The ...

In this episode, we discuss the 3 best exercises for biceps hypertrophy (in our opinion) as well as Wage War's Best songs off each of their albums. We provide an overview of biceps training, common exercises, form mistakes, training principles, and highlight a research study examining how different ranges of motion impacted biceps hypertrophy (linked below). Our episode concludes with our selection for Song of the Week; enjoy! Song of the Week: A Bridge of Iron and Blood by Eidola Research Ar...

In this episode, we provide an album review of ERRA's latest album release, Cure. We provide an overview of the album, discuss instrumentals, vocals, pros, cons, and wrap up with some concluding thoughts. This episode concludes with our Song of the Week selection. Enjoy! Song of the Week: "Four Horses" by Convictions Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

Have you ever left the gym and thought, "wow that was a better workout than usual!"? In this episode of the podcast, we discuss some of the factors that make an effective workout and provide all this tips/tools you will need to program a great workout for yourself. We discuss programming specific to your goals, exercise selection, exercise order, and tips for executing a great workout. This episode then transitions into discussing some of the factors that make for a great workout song. Evan a...

The band ERRA has engrained themselves into the metalcore genre as one of the best and they are truly a gift that keeps on giving in terms of consistently living up to expectations with their music. In this episode of the podcast we identify our top 5 ERRA songs and rank them based on lyrics, instrumentals, song meaning, and vocals. Their entire discography was analyzed in our selections and you may be surprised by some of our top picks. The episode then rounds out with our selection for song...

In this episode, Evan highlights some of the lessons learned from his three year mass gaining phase where he went from 190lbs-230lbs, gaining 7lbs of lean mass in the first year. He dives into his training, nutrition, supplementation, and also discusses how to determine when it is time to end the bulk. He then discusses his cutting plans and goals moving forward with the hopes that those listening will learn from mistakes made and apply what worked well. Lastly, the episode concludes with our...

In this episode we cover the top 9 metalcore breakup-themed songs that are great for working out. Songs are ranked on their ability to evoke emotion along with their vocals, instrumentals, and breakdowns. It is our hope that by listening to this episode of the podcast, you will learn about some new metalcore music you haven't heard yet. This episode then transitions into our selection for song of the week; enjoy! Song of the Week: Endless Hollow by Oceans Ate Alaska Follow us on Instagra...

Happy New Year! A large portion of the population who set New Year's resolutions focus on health goals, specifically losing weight. In this episode kicking off season 4 of the podcast, we highlight the important tips/steps in facilitating a healthy transformation. With years of personal training and health coaching experience, along with 4 top-five finishes competing in men's physique, we share an empathetic perspective factoring in many of the challenges that people face when taking on these...

Have you ever wondered why your favorite band changed their sound? In this episode of the podcast, we explore reasons why bands change their sound while also exploring some pros and cons of changing their sound, what it means for the genre, and some examples of bands who were successful in changing their sound. For our fitness segment, we discuss some winter bulking tips as we are officially in the winter season. The episode today rounds out by discussing our selection for song of the week. W...

As 2023 comes to a close, we wanted to highlight 5 songs that you should know about from this year that may have gone under your radar. We provide information/background on each band along with lyric analysis, instrumental discussion, and some of our favorite parts of each song. We then transition into our selection for song of the week. Sit back and enjoy! Resources: https://aaabackstage.com/interview-synge-tell-us-about-their-latest-single-refract/Interview With Israel's "Revision The ...

This episode of the podcast features an in-depth dive into parasocial relationships within the fitness industry and how these relationships are utilized to promote products. We provide smart consumer tips along with examples of good and bad products within the fitness industry. The episode continues with our discussion of the importance of lyrics within the metalcore genre. Lastly, we conclude the episode with our selection for Song of the Week. Enjoy!Resource: https://www.sciencedirect....

In this episode, we discuss Beartooth's latest album, The Surface, in depth highlighting our favorite lyrics from each song along with the deeper meanings within the album. This episode continues with our discussion of photoshop within the fitness industry and setting realistic expectations when you are starting your fitness journey. We also discuss the concept of eccentric loading and a couple different ways you can implement it into your training. Lastly, our episode concludes with our sele...

Are you trying to gain strength on your barbell back squat? In this episode of the podcast, Evan discusses how he added roughly 200lbs to his squat in under one year's time. Topics discussed include training, sleep, nutrition, supplementation, social factors, and mental health. We also discuss a few research studies that provide information on increase squat 1RM over a short period of time. The episode transitions into our music segments where we highlight one of our favorite albums of the ye...

The early 2010s were a golden era for metalcore music. With many bands throwing their hat into the metalcore ring at that time, there were bound to be bands that got lost in the shuffle. In today's episode we will be highlighting four forgotten bands from the 2010s that produced amazing music you won't want to miss. We discuss the bands' background, our favorite songs, lyrics, instrumentals, vocals, breakdowns, and much more. Our fitness segment includes tips on how to improve VO2 max or also...

Have you ever wondered what workout routine is best for you? In this episode, we discuss a variety of different workout splits/routines that are common in the fitness space and some important considerations to make when implementing them into your lifestyle. The episode continues by discussing some of our favorite metalcore bands that have made comebacks in 2023. The episode rounds out with our song of the week selection. Enjoy! Resources: https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/Fulltext/2015...

Have you ever heard a song and thought "how haven't I heard this before?"? In this episode of the podcast, we highlight three bands we were unaware of that quickly became some of our favorites. We discuss their discographies, lyrics, instrumentals, vocals, etc. and highlight some of our favorite songs from each band. Evan then describes his failed 405lb squat attempt and his plan of action to successfully squat it before the end of the year with the hope that there are lessons that can be app...

In this episode of the podcast, Evan discusses some of the things he wished he knew when he stated weightlifting. It is our hope that you can learn from these experiences to expedite your gains in the gym. Our host Evan has been working in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and health coach for 9 years, and he shares some tips on achieving the most common fitness goals, some of which include boosting energy and increasing strength. The episode concludes with our song selection for Son...

We are only about 3 months into 2023 and there have been some great releases within the Metalcore genre. In this episode of the podcast, we discuss our favorite albums from the year so far. We discuss some of the overall themes within each album, as well as some of our favorite songs. The podcast episode concludes with our selection for Song of the Week. We hope you enjoy! Song of the Week: Free by THICCFollow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

Do you have limited time to exercise throughout your week? Having enough time to exercise is a common concern for many people and lack of time often prevents individuals from engaging in health promoting behaviors. In this episode of the podcast, we discuss a peer reviewed study (included below) that provides some practical applications for those who are looking to increase strength and muscle mass with limited time to train. We provide a sample workout routine utilizing the practical applica...

When you listen to music, do you always listen to the same genre, or do you explore new types of music? In this episode of the podcast, we discuss four albums that helped change our taste in music, opening up new interests in metalcore sub genres like progressive metalcore and multi-dimensional fusions of hip-hop, EDM, and rock. We discuss background on each album, themes, lyrics, best workout songs, and more. The episode concludes with our song of the week selection. We hope you enjoy! ...

Are you looking to lose weight but don't know where to begin? Perhaps you have heard that a certain diet, supplement, or workout style is best for fat loss but you're not sure which is right for you. In this episode of the podcast, Evan breaks down his experiences losing weight as a men's physique competitor into relatable and realistic tips for the non-competitor that simply wants to be the healthiest version of themselves. The episode culminates with seven key takeaways that can help you ge...

Do you remember the songs that made you fall in love with your favorite genre of music? In this episode of the podcast, our host Evan discusses 15 songs that made him fall in love with the metalcore genre. Perhaps these songs are brand new for you and you will fall in love with them too, or maybe you are already familiar with these songs and this episode can take you on a nostalgic tour of some of your old favorites. Evan also discusses three reasons why he fell in love with weightlifting wit...

Have you ever had feelings of anxiety related to exercise or have dreaded engaging in exercise? With the new year in full swing, these may be feelings that you are experiencing, and with this episode, we want to provide all the information that you will need to not only make exercise a part of your lifestyle, but will hopefully help you see exercise in a positive light. We will dive into some research surrounding the topic and work together to create a plan of action to implement some key tak...

As the year comes to an end, we wanted to highlight five of our favorite songs that were released this year from up-and-coming bands in the scene. In this episode of the podcast, we provide some background information on each band, along with a lyrical analysis, and some of our favorite parts of each song. We believe it is so important to spread the word when we find some great music! The episode then transitions into a quick fitness tip regarding the upcoming holidays and rounds out as usual...

When thinking about the electronicore genre, who are some bands that come to mind? Is it Attack Attack! or maybe I See Stars? Perhaps you are not familiar with the electronicore genre at all. In this episode, we discuss some early influences in the electronicore genre as well as some modern day electronic/metalcore collaborations. The fitness portion of the episode covers some of our favorite exercises for growing muscular shoulders. The episode rounds out with the Spotify Release Radar Recap...

Do you skip leg day? In this episode of the podcast, we provide the ultimate guide for growing bigger legs. We begin by providing reasons why leg training is aversive, in addition to reasons why it is important to train your lower body. We then provide a list of tips on how to grow bigger legs. The episode continues with our host sharing a sample leg day playlist featuring some great metalcore tracks. Lastly, the episode concludes with our Spotify Release Radar Recap. We hope you enjoy and do...

In this episode, we analyze the lyrical content of two of the most emotional albums of 2022. Many people have experienced great loss over the last two years, whether that was losing out on experiences or actually losing loved ones and listening to these two albums can be a cathartic avenue to work through some of those emotions. The albums analyzed in this episode include The Hell We Create by Fit For A King and Dark Sun by Dayseeker. We then examine a research article that investigates the e...

Are you gearing up for a big winter bulk? Many trainees will enter a bulking phase as winter approaches, and in this episode, Evan describes his experiences during his first bulking phase 10 years ago vs. his current bulking phase. We highlight lessons learned during that experience including topics of training, supplementation, nutrition, and sleep. We also discuss what the research shows surrounding best practices for gaining muscle. The Release Radar Recap is intertwined with the main cont...

This episode of the podcast features an album comparison of two of metalcore's best concept albums from the 2012-2013 era. Crown the Empire and Famous Last Words face off in a comparison of their first studio albums: The Fallout and Two-Faced Charade. In this episode, we break the comparison down into the following categories: instrumentals, vocals, workoutability (breakdowns), and lyrics. Lastly the episode rounds out with the Spotify Release Radar Recap. Resources:Crown the Empire - W...

Do you enjoy your workouts, or are you finding yourself unmotivated to train? We are more likely to adhere to exercise that we enjoy, thus perhaps resulting in increases in motivation and consistency. In this episode, we discuss 7 ways to make your workouts more enjoyable, one of which is music. We discuss ways to find new metalcore music and cap the episode off with the release radar recap from Spotify. If you find yourself bored with your current training, hopefully this episode will help! ...

Have you ever wondered how long it takes to build muscle? If your goal in the gym is to build muscle, you won't want to miss some of the key practical applications shared in this episode. If you are a beginner with your weight training, we are hoping this episode is helpful in establishing safe and realistic expectations regarding your training goals. We also touch on some recent research examining resistance training variables promoting muscular hypertrophy. The episode then transitions into...

In this episode, we discuss Fearless Record's Punk Goes Pop series and how it became a gateway into the metalcore genre. We breakdown each album discussing artists involved, favorite covers from each volume, and lastly make a selection for best volume within the series. Our host also discusses some of his favorite covers that are not included within the Punk Goes Pop series. We then round into a fitness segment, discussing some tips on growing bigger arms. Today's episode concludes with the R...

Exercise has often been touted as a great method for anxiety and stress management however, it may be hard to tap into these benefits if the gym environment sparks feelings of anxiety. For many people, even experienced weightlifters, the gym can generate feelings of social anxiety. In today's episode, our host Evan discusses some of the anxiety and stress reduction benefits of exercise, situations that increase social anxiety for males in the gym environment, and lastly some strategies/soluti...

Have you ever wondered why or how music evokes emotions? Whether it's your favorite song from when you were a kid or a new song that pumps you up in the gym, there is no denying that music makes us feel emotion as humans. In this episode, Evan explores an article that seeks to answer the question, "Why do we get emotional when we listen to music?". Evan then transitions into discussing some common misconceptions/commonly held beliefs within the fitness space. The episode concludes by discussi...

In this episode, we attempt to answer the question, "what role does genetics play in building muscle?" by examining an online article from the Good Guide for Health Care. We then transition into discussing two recent research articles (linked below) that discuss advanced resistance training techniques promoting hypertrophy, as well as the optimal resistance training volume per muscle group. We finish out the episode discussing some things to look out for as a consumer in the fitness industry,...

Welcome to season number two of the podcast! We are kicking this season off with a fun episode hypothetically creating the ultimate metalcore band utilizing a "fantasy draft" to select some of the best musicians in the genre. Evan builds his ultimate 6-piece (clean vocals, screaming vocals, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass guitar, and drums) metalcore group and explains his selections in depth. The episode transitions into the fitness tip segment where Evan discusses some common form mistakes...

In this episode, Evan discusses some of his experiences working in the fitness industry, along with some do's and don'ts for personal trainers. There are many different career paths within the fitness space and Evan shares some information on the different routes you can take to have a career in fitness. The episode continues with the fitness tip which is focused on controlling the factors you can control before relying on supplements. The episode rounds out with Evan's selection for workout ...

This episode of the podcast features an album comparison for the ages with two of metalcore's most nostalgic albums. Memphis May Fire and Of Mice & Men go head-to-head in a comparison of their second studio albums: The Hollow vs. The Flood. Evan breaks down each album and compares them based on vocals, instrumentals, lyrics, and breakdowns. The fitness tip of the week is focused on form when bench pressing. Lastly, the episode rounds out with his selection for workout song of the week.&nb...

In this episode, Evan examines a research article titled, "Nutrition Recommendations for Physique Athletes" in which the authors highlight research conducted on the most common bodybuilding supplements, including protein powders, creatine, nitric oxide precursors, and beta alanine. Evan includes a fitness tip highlighting the importance of patience when it comes to achieving your fitness goals. The episode rounds out with two song selections for workout songs of the week. Songs of the Week:De...

In this episode, we provide an in-depth analysis, diving into For All Eternity's discography. We go through each album and pick some favorite songs, analyze lyrics, and finally make a selection for best album within their discography. For All Eternity is a Christian metalcore band from Sydney, NSW, Australia. The group has released three studio albums, with their latest release being The Will to Rebuild which dropped in 2017. Article Link: For All Eternity (band) - WikipediaFitness Tip: Princ...

In episode 14 of the podcast, our host Evan breaks down what makes a great workout playlist, and even provides an example playlist. In the next segment of the episode, Evan discusses the lessons he learned while attempting to be a "fitness influencer". Fitness Tip Topic: Drop setsArticle Link: Drop Sets for Gains: Why This Lifting Format Works [Feb 2022] (nasm.org)Song of the Week: Concrete Jungle by Bad OmensSample Workout Playlist: Countdown by DangerkidsCities by SiameseWorld Without ...

In this episode of the podcast, Evan attempts to answer the following questions related to steroid use:How many people are using performance enhancing drugs?If someone is using, why did they initiate use?What are their experiences using steroids?What are the side effects of using?The remainder of the episode includes a fitness tip (pre-exhaust training) and Evan's selection for song of the week, which comes from the band LANDMVRKS. Resources:The aetiology and trajectory of anabolic-andro...

This episode of the podcast features an album comparison of two of metalcore's finest bands. August Burns Red and Parkway Drive go head-to-head in a comparison of their second studio albums: Horizons vs. Messengers. Evan breaks down each album and compares them based on the vocals, instrumentals, lyrics, and breakdowns. Evan also adds a new fitness tip segment to the podcast and rounds out the episode with the workout song of the week. Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

In this episode, we discuss the When We Were Young Festival and provide some fitness tips for optimal attendee performance. We also dive into some recommendations for proper gym etiquette and highlight some interesting stories from being approached at the gym. This episode concludes with Evan's pick for song of the week as well as some recent metalcore news. Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

In this episode, Evan provides a lyrical analysis of five metalcore songs from the 2010s, exploring the deeper meaning behind the lyrics. The five songs included in this episode come from the bands Memphis May Fire, Of Mice & Men, Blessthefall, Oh Sleeper, and A Day to Remember. Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

Have you ever had difficulty achieving a goal you set for yourself? In this episode, our host Evan examines research surrounding New Year's resolutions and provides information/tips on how to make your resolutions stick. Even if you are not interested in making resolutions, these tips can also apply to goals you may set for yourself. The episode rounds out with Evan's pick for workout song of the week. Happy New Year!Article Link: A large-scale experiment on New Year’s resolutions: Appro...

In this episode Evan makes his top selections for Best Fitness Page, Workout Song of the Year, Breakdown of the Year, and lastly Album of the Year for 2021. Evan provides each selection and a little information about each pick. If you are a fan of metalcore and fitness, you will not want to miss this episode. Happy New Year! Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

Welcome to episode 7 of MetalCore and Muscle! Within this episode, Evan provides his list for the top 5 most underrated metalcore bands, in addition to his top 5 underrated dumbbell exercises. In usual fashion, Evan rounds out the episode with his choice for workout song of the week. Article Link: Meet The Wise Man’s Fear, One Of Metalcore’s Most Unique Bands - Features - Rock Sound Magazine Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

In this episode, Evan investigates the question, does body weight have an impact on your voice? Evan also provides his responses to the top 5 most frequently asked fitness questions. To finish out this episode, Evan provides his selection for workout song of the week!Article Link: Does Your Weight Affect Your Singing Voice? - OpenMic (openmicuk.co.uk) Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

In this episode, Evan dives deeper into research regarding body image and our relationship with food. You will learn signs of a positive and negative relationship with food, in addition to factors contributing to a poor relationship with food. Evan provides some action items and key take-aways that you can implement right away. Lastly, Evan shares his pick for song of the week. References to all research will be included below.References:•Alexander, B. (2016). Ideal to Real: What the ‘perfect...

In this episode of MetalCore and Muscle our host Evan creates a fitness program for a hypothetical client who is a front man for a touring metalcore band. Evan provides details from exercise selection all the way to the exact rep counts for each exercise. If you are a touring artist, fitness enthusiast, or a personal trainer, you will likely find this episode useful. To round out the episode, Evan provides his pick for song of the week from his release radar. Follow us on Instagram @mc_m...

In this episode, our host Evan dives into four songs that are lyrically motivating, and discusses the meaning behind the lyrics. He also provides some tips and considerations for finding the right fitness facility for you and your goals. Evan also rounds out today's episode by discussing his song of the week from his release radar. If you listen to metalcore and love fitness, you are sure to enjoy this episode!Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

In the second episode of MetalCore and Muscle, our host Evan discusses his experiences competing in the NPC as a natural men's physique athlete and the subsequent mental challenges associated with the sport. Evan also highlights music's impacts on aerobic and anaerobic exercise along with his top workout song of the week. Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!

Welcome to the first episode of Metalcore and Muscle! In this first episode, our podcast host Evan breaks down his top 10 songs with heavy breakdowns that are guaranteed to motivate you when you are in the gym. To round out the episode, Evan covers 3 tips/items to be aware of when you are hiring a personal trainer, as well as 3 tips if you are looking to enter into a fitness-related career. Follow us on Instagram @mc_muscle!