Chatting heavy metal, the culture around it, and more with John Bultena and Bill Crowe. Produced by Cauldron & Tower Opening theme by Tucker Thomasson
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Cauldron Tower Podcasts
Welcome to “A Nerdy Book Club,” the podcast where we explore literature and fan-created works. Join our host as we dive deep into books.
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EP 13: On Castle Rat, Bestiary, A Criticism
1:00:33
1:00:33
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1:00:33Bill and I listen to Castle Rat's brand new album: Bestiary. We chat this highly anticipated album, its strengths and where it may fall short of expectations. Enjoy this track by track break down on More Than Metal. More Than Metal: https://linktr.ee/morethanmetal John Bultena: https://linktr.ee/onlyplaywizards Bill Crowe: https://www.instagram.com…
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EP 12: Learning & Taste with Adam Neal of Savage Master
1:32:36
1:32:36
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1:32:36Adam Neal, co-founder and guitarist of Savage Master, joins to talk about stage theatrics, growing up with horror and heavy metal, and how do you prepare to tour with GWAR? Savage Master: https://savagemasterofficial.bandcamp.com/By Cauldron & Tower
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EP 11: Growing Up Rock & Roll with Trevor William Church of Haunt
1:22:24
1:22:24
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1:22:24Trevor William Church of Haunt joins Bill in discussing growing up with parents in the rock and roll business. Trevor and Bill also find they have a closer connection that they thought, all due to rock music! Haunt: https://hauntthenation.bandcamp.com/ More Than Metal: https://linktr.ee/morethanmetal John Bultena: https://linktr.ee/onlyplaywizards …
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EP 10: Tucker Thomasson of Throne of Iron & Mega Dungeon Recording
1:03:52
1:03:52
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1:03:52John and Bill catch up with Tucker Thomasson, guitarist and vocalist for the dungeon delving heavy metal band Throne of Iron. We hear about his efforts in recording and mixing, while sharing insights into rural living. Tucker Thomasson: https://linktr.ee/TuckOfIron Throne of Iron: https://linktr.ee/throneofironmetal Mega Dungeon Recording: https://…
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Bill and I listen to Blackbraid III, the latest black metal offering from Sgah’gahsowáh. Where do we place it in releases this year. Join us as we break down this album, track by track. More Than Metal: https://linktr.ee/morethanmetal John Bultena: https://linktr.ee/onlyplaywizards Bill Crowe: https://www.instagram.com/billjcrowevo/…
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The Swap is where Bill and John give each other an album they've never heard to listen to. They then share a conversation about their thoughts on the respective music composition. Today's episode has Bill listening to Emperor the Black Runes from 2004 by Italian power metalers Domine. John gets a flash back to his EBM days with Health Vol. 4: Slave…
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Over the half way point of 2025, so Bill and John want to share what has really been musical highlights for the year. 2025 may be a rough year, but a fantastic one for music. More Than Metal: https://linktr.ee/morethanmetal John Bultena: https://linktr.ee/onlyplaywizards Bill Crowe: https://www.instagram.com/billjcrowevo/…
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The Swap is where Bill and John give each other an album they've never heard to listen to. They then share a conversation about their thoughts on the respective music composition. Bill has John listen to the 2016 album All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us by seminal metalcore band, Architects. John prescribes Bill a health dose of Motherblood from 2017 b…
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EP 5: Musician Costuming with guest Sam Franco aka Bara Hari
58:46
58:46
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58:46What an artist wears can sometimes say as much as their music. We talk with Sam Franco, seamstress, and musician about her project, Bara Hari, along with discussing what costuming can do for promo, album covers, and performances. Sam offers some great insights behind her process for her own project and working with other artists. Sam Franco: https:…
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EP 4: Justin Gautreau on Studio Culture around Los Angeles
53:23
53:23
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53:23Justin Gautreau is an author and instructor at the University of California, Merced. He is the author of The Last Word: The Hollywood Novel and the Studio and contributes to The Los Angeles Review of Books. We chat his approach to writing about music and studio culture in Los Angeles. Justin Gautreau: https://www.instagram.com/justingotro/ More Tha…
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The Swap is where Bill and John give each other an album they've never heard to listen to. They then share a conversation about their thoughts on the respective music composition. This week Bill listens to Shark Move's 1973 album Ghede Chokra's while John is assigned Sleep Token's 2025 album, Even In Arcadia. More Than Metal: https://linktr.ee/more…
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Telling the tale of how we got into Iron Maiden and how those that are "Maiden Curious" might make the delve into one of the greatest heavy metal bands of all time! More Than Metal: https://linktr.ee/morethanmetal John Bultena: https://linktr.ee/onlyplaywizards Bill Crowe: https://www.instagram.com/billjcrowevo/…
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Comparing notes on shows they have attended, John and Bill come to some conclusions about what makes a good concert experience and professionalism from live performers. More Than Metal: https://linktr.ee/morethanmetal John Bultena: https://linktr.ee/onlyplaywizards Bill Crowe: https://www.instagram.com/billjcrowevo/…
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Bookshops & Bonedust: Legends & Lattes Series
29:00
29:00
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29:00Polly discusses the book Bookshops and Bonedust from the Legends and Lattes Series <3
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In today's episode we discuss "Dark Heir" is a gripping fantasy novel that weaves together elements of magic, mystery, and adventure. Set in a world where ancient powers stir and long-hidden secrets resurface, the story follows a group of unlikely heroes as they embark on a perilous journey to uncover the truth about their past and the dark forces …
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Dive into the world of Sarah J. Maas' “Kingdom of Ash” in this podcast episode. Find us: Website, Tik Tok, Instagram, TumblrBy Cauldron Cakes and Wine Network
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Join us as we dive into the cozy world of The Pumpkin Spice Café! In this heartwarming podcast, we explore the enchanting story of friendship, love, and the magic of autumn through the lens of a small-town café. Grab your favourite seasonal drink and settle in for a cozy chat about the joys of connection and the warmth of community! Find us: Websit…
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In this episode, we dive into Finale by Stephanie Garber, the breathtaking conclusion to the Caraval series. Join us as we explore the twists and turns of the plot, the development of beloved characters, and the intricate world Garber has crafted. Find us: Website, Tik Tok, Instagram, TumblrBy Cauldron Cakes and Wine Network
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Embark on an enchanting journey with us as we delve into the mesmerizing world of Stephanie Garber's "Legendary." In this episode, we dissect the intricate layers of this spellbinding sequel, where reality blurs with fantasy and secrets lurk beneath every mask. Join our discussion as we unravel the mysteries of Caraval, exploring its lush landscape…
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In today's episode we discuss "Dark Rise" is a gripping fantasy novel that weaves together elements of magic, mystery, and adventure. Set in a world where ancient powers stir and long-hidden secrets resurface, the story follows a group of unlikely heroes as they embark on a perilous journey to uncover the truth about their past and the dark forces …
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Dive into the world of Sarah J. Maas' "Tower of Dawn" in this podcast episode. Content warnings: I FUCKING HATED THIS BOOK Find us: Website, Tik Tok, Instagram, TumblrBy Cauldron Cakes and Wine Network
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In this episode, we delve into the enchanting world of "Caraval" by Stephanie Garber. Tune in as we journey through the twists and turns of "Caraval," discussing its characters and plot intricacies. Content warning: violence, suicide, death and abusive parents (none of this is in detail but those themes are in the plot of the book) Find us: Website…
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The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes - Movie
39:42
39:42
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39:42In this podcast episode, we're diving into the post-apocalyptic world of "The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes," the film adaptation of Suzanne Collins' prequel to the Hunger Games series. Whether you're a die-hard Hunger Games fan or just curious about this latest installment, tune in as we explore the captivating world of "The Ballad of Songbirds a…
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In this podcast episode, we're immersing ourselves in the enchanting narrative of "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab. From the streets of 18th-century France to the bustling streets of contemporary New York, we'll analyze the poignant moments and philosophical questions that make this novel a literary masterpiece. So, whether you're…
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A Curse for True Love - Once Upon A Broken Heart Trilogy
29:06
29:06
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29:06n this podcast episode, we're stepping into the enchanting world of "A Curse for True Love" by Stephanie Garber. Join us as we unravel the captivating narrative of love, mystery, and magic, as the author weaves a tale that defies the boundaries of reality. We'll explore the intricacies of the characters, the allure of the cursed romance, and the su…
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In this podcast episode, we're delving into the enchanting world of "From Bad to Cursed," a spellbinding novel by Lana Harper. Find us: Website, Tik Tok, Instagram, TumblrBy Cauldron Cakes and Wine Network
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In this intriguing podcast episode, we explore the captivating world of Terry J. Benton-Walker's 'Blood Debts.' Join us as we dissect the intricate plot, multifaceted characters, and the author's unique storytelling style that make this novel an unmissable literary journey. We'll discuss the themes of vengeance, loyalty, and the consequences of cho…
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Join us in this captivating podcast episode as we explore the enchanting world of the 'Red, White & Royal Blue' movie adaptation. Dive into the romantic complexities and political intrigue of this beloved story that stole hearts around the world. We'll discuss the brilliant casting choices, the faithful adaptation of the best-selling novel, and the…
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Heartstopper Volume Two + Three and Season Two
49:42
49:42
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49:42Join us in this exciting podcast episode as we dive deep into the captivating world of Heartstopper. We're delving into the pages of volumes 3 and 4 of the heartwarming graphic novel series, and we can't wait to share our thoughts on the latest developments in the lives of Nick and Charlie. But that's not all – get ready for a discussion about seas…
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In this episode we're diving into the enchanting world of "Red, White & Royal Blue" by Casey McQuiston. Join us as we explore the delightful romance between Alex Claremont-Diaz, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Whales. From the witty banter to the tender moments that tug at our heartstrings, we'll celebrate the power of love …
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In this thrilling episode of our podcast, we're diving into "Empire of Storms," the fifth installment of Sarah J. Maas' epic fantasy series, Throne of Glass. Join us as we unpack the intricate world-building, the high-stakes political landscape, and the captivating characters that make this book a stand out in the series. Content Warning: Violence.…
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Shadow and Bone Season Two - GrishaVerse - Shadow and Bone Trilogy
50:00
50:00
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50:00In this exciting episode of our podcast, we're diving into the highly anticipated second season of "Shadow and Bone." Based on Leigh Bardugo's captivating Grishaverse novels, this Netflix series continues to immerse us in a world of magic, adventure, and political intrigue. So grab your kefta, tune in, and let's journey into the captivating realm o…
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