Best Chris DeMakes Podcasts (2025)

1
Ep. 259: J Navarro discusses The Suicide Machines “S.O.S.” 1:05:26

2d ago1:05:26

1:05:26

In this episode, J Navarro of The Suicide Machines joins the show to discuss the origins and last-minute magic behind “S.O.S.,” a fan-favorite track from their 1996 debut Destruction By Definition. J reveals that the song nearly didn’t make the album, coming together late in the recording process after a scramble to finish it. At the time, the band…

1
Half A Century Of Type-Ins - This Week In Retro 220 54:18

2h ago54:18

54:18

We are joined by James (WhatHoSnorkers) to discuss a new video that shows how DMA Design reinvented the puzzle game, to remember the computerised Raleigh Vektar, and how it seems that 50 years have now passed since the very first type in game was released. Whether you remember the Amiga, BBC Micro, Apple II, ZX Spectrum, Amstrad CPC, Commodore 64, …

1
Throwback Thursday: Tahlena Chikami discusses Bite Me Bambi's "Bad Boyfriend" 1:17:53

6d ago1:17:53

1:17:53

It’s a special Throwback Thursday edition of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and while the show usually digs deep into the archives, this week’s rewind only takes us back a few months to a standout February episode featuring Tahlena Chikami of Bite Me Bambi. With her band hitting the road on Less Than Jake’s Summer Circus tour, it’s the perfect time to re…

1
Ep. 258: Brittany Luna and Tim Hildebrand discuss Catbite’s “Tired of Talk (feat. Patrick Stump)” 1:12:30

9d ago1:12:30

1:12:30

On this episode, Tim Hildebrand and Brittany Luna of Catbite dive into the creation of their 2025 single “Tired of Talk (feat. Patrick Stump),” unpacking the experimental production process, the emotional layers of the lyrics, and the evolution of their ska-meets-pop sound. They reflect on the joys and challenges of writing as a couple, the magic o…

1
Video Games Aren’t Real, They Can’t Hurt You! - This Week In Retro 219 1:03:00

2d ago1:03:00

1:03:00

🛠 Check out PCBWay at https://pcbway.com/ for all your PCB needs! 🛠 Have you ever played an online game and found no other users? Have you ever wanted to get to know Sinistar better? Have you no clue which iconic retro gaming character is turning 45? If the answer to any of these is yes then we can help! 00:00 - Show Opening 07:15 - Back to 1980! S…

1
It's May 16th! Revisiting Ep. 51: Joey Cape discusses Lagwagon's "May 16" 1:22:41

12d ago1:22:41

1:22:41

It’s May 16th, so it’s only fitting to revisit Episode 51 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, featuring Joey Cape of Lagwagon. Originally released on May 16th, 2021, this fan-favorite episode dives deep into the creation of the band’s beloved anthem “May 16.” Joey shares the real-life events that inspired the song, and reflects on the emotional headspace h…

1
Throwback Thursday: Angelo Moore discusses Fishbone's "Party At Ground Zero" 1:27:30

13d ago1:27:30

1:27:30

This week’s Throwback Thursday takes us back to Episode 245 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, originally released on February 17th, 2025, with none other than Angelo Moore of Fishbone. In this lively and eye-opening chat, Angelo breaks down the making of their explosive 1985 single “Party At Ground Zero”—a wild mix of ska, punk, funk, and soul with an en…

1
Ep. 257: JR Wasilewski discusses Less Than Jake’s “Walking Pipebomb” 1:14:47

16d ago1:14:47

1:14:47

This week, Chris is joined by his Less Than Jake bandmate JR Wasilewski to break down the writing and recording of "Walking Pipebomb" from the band's Uncharted EP. JR shares how a Dance Hall Crashers song sparked the initial idea, how his signature guitar style shaped the sound, and why the demo remained nearly identical to the final version. The c…

1
Was 2000 The Best Year For Gaming? - This Week In Retro 218 54:17

9d ago54:17

54:17

Thank you for joining us once again for another look at some up to date news for out of date tech. Jason joins us and has selected a story about distraction free computing using DOS. Chris returns and looks at a fantastic video about gaming in the year 2000. Dave's interest was piqued by the news that an anti-piracy campaign itself used pirated con…

1
Throwback Thursday: Bert McCracken discusses The Used's "The Taste of Ink" 1:20:36

20d ago1:20:36

1:20:36

In this Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, originally released on May 1, 2023, Bert McCracken of The Used sits down with Chris to unpack the writing and recording of the band’s breakout single, “The Taste of Ink.” McCracken takes listeners back to the early 2000s, when the song—written in a basement in Provo, Utah—captured the r…

1
Ep. 256: Stacy Jones discusses American Hi-Fi’s “Flavor of the Weak” 1:25:57

23d ago1:25:57

1:25:57

This week, Stacy Jones sits in to share the story behind American Hi-Fi’s 2001 breakout hit, “Flavor of the Weak.” From his early days as Veruca Salt’s touring drummer to stepping into the spotlight as a frontman, Stacy discusses the evolution of his career, the challenges of reinvention, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He reflects on t…

1
Outrun On The Big Telly - This Week In Retro 217 1:12:07

16d ago1:12:07

1:12:07

🛠 Check out PCBWay at https://pcbway.com/ for all your PCB needs! 🛠 Outrun is getting a movie, an Australian arcade is closing its doors and can you get Windows 3.1 to run on a Game Boy? They started together so it seemed fitting they should be together again on Neil's last day as a regular host! John from Amigos Retro Gaming joins us for a chat. W…

1
Ep. 255: A discussion on Coolio's "Gangsta's Paradise (feat. L.V.)" 1:07:52

1M ago1:07:52

1:07:52

This week, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios take a deep dive into Coolio’s massive 1995 hit “Gangsta’s Paradise,” unpacking the song’s gripping themes, powerful lyrics, and lasting cultural impact. From the Stevie Wonder sample that gave it its foundation to the haunting choir that set its tone, they break down the song’s composition and the intens…

51
Super Fast Win 98 Install - This Week In Retro 216 1:00:39

24d ago1:00:39

1:00:39

Bill Gates predicted the online future way back in 1993, how much did he get right? Was the first 3D game made in 1992? And what if you could install Windows 98 is just a couple of minutes? Clint from LGR joins us to talk about these fascinating subjects and more. You can see more from Clint over at LGR https://www.youtube.com/@LGR We are sponsored…

1
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “April 24th: The Most Historic of Days” episode 38:11

1M ago38:11

38:11

Originally released to Patreon supporters on April 24th, 2023, this episode of The After Party—titled "April 24th: The Most Historic of Days"—is now available as a special sneak preview on the main feed! In this entertaining and unpredictable deep dive, Chris and Chris explore a wide range of fascinating events that all took place on April 24th, in…

1
Ep. 254: Michael Imperioli discusses ZOPA’s “A Still Life” 1:20:58

1M ago1:20:58

1:20:58

Many know Michael Imperioli for his unforgettable roles in The Sopranos and The White Lotus, but his artistic reach extends far beyond the screen. In this episode, Michael opens up about the writing and recording of "A Still Life," the 2025 single from ZOPA’s album Diamond Vehicle. He shares how his musical influences—from The Beatles to an array o…

51
16-Bit Demakes & OS Updates - This Week In Retro 215 58:42

1M ago58:42

58:42

🛠 Check out PCBWay at https://pcbway.com/ for all your PCB needs! 🛠 Jason from The Retro Adventurers joins us again today and tells us all about three new OS updates. Neil has a couple of demakes for 16-bit machines to talk about and Dave wonders is GTA really is the most influential game of all time. All this and more retro news in brief plus your…

1
Ep. 253: Dani Filth discusses Cradle of Filth’s “Nymphetamine Fix” 1:22:35

1M ago1:22:35

1:22:35

In this episode, Dani Filth, the iconic frontman of Cradle of Filth, opens up about the creation of their 2004 fan-favorite single, "Nymphetamine Fix." He discusses the atmospheric recording sessions with producer Rob Caggiano, which captured the band's signature dark and gothic sound. Dani also explores the song's lyrical themes of yearning and lo…

1
Chiptune Heaven - This Week In Retro 214 59:27

1M ago59:27

59:27

A chiptunes documentary, a top ten list of influential games that seems a bit dodgy and ten seems to be the idea age to want to go back to. We are joined by Matt from TechMadeEasy. Our sponsor PIXEL ADDICT magazine has a new website! Check it out at https://www.addict.media/ where you can order the very latest issue and see absolutely everything el…

1
Ep. 252: Anty Horgan discusses The Bennies “Party Machine” 1:09:36

2M ago1:09:36

1:09:36

This week, Anty Horgan of The Bennies sits in to break down the spontaneous creation of the band’s 2016 fan-favorite single, "Party Machine." From their early days performing under the name Madonna to their signature blend of psychedelic reggae and ska punk, Anty shares how the band's anything-goes attitude fueled the song’s infectious energy. He a…

1
Atari Shock - This Week In Retro 213 1:02:03

1M ago1:02:03

1:02:03

🛠 Check out PCBWay at https://pcbway.com/ for all your PCB needs! 🛠 A bit of a thing broke out about the different way the US sees gaming history. There may be a new contender for Japan's first ever video game. Populous almost got a release on the NES, the code has been found and new footage is now available to watch. All this and a handful of othe…

1
Ep. 251: Martin Fry discusses ABC's "The Look of Love" 1:28:50

2M ago1:28:50

1:28:50

In this episode, Martin Fry gives a look behind the scenes of ABC’s dazzling 1982 hit, “The Look of Love.” With Trevor Horn at the helm, the song’s lush, high-gloss production helped ABC stand out in the new wave explosion, pushing sonic boundaries with cutting-edge techniques. Martin shares how the band approached the track like a stage production…

1
4 Tales Of Retro Woe - This Week In Retro 212 1:12:25

2M ago1:12:25

1:12:25

This week we are joined by Jason Compton from The Retro Adventurers to talk about four retro projects that may have hit hard times, how the loss of one online account could cost you dearly and about the return of a popular point and click adventure that might give you nightmares! The Pixel Addict magazine website has had a faster modem fitted! You …

1
Ep. 250: Josh Goldman discusses The Raging Nathans “The Grudge” 1:12:47

2M ago1:12:47

1:12:47

This week, Josh Goldman of The Raging Nathans joins the pod to discuss the writing and recording of their 2025 single "The Grudge." Josh shares how the song evolved from a casual idea into a powerful track, shaped by thoughtful arrangement choices, layered harmonies, and even some intentional literary references. He also reflects on the recording p…

1
Retro Tech Up In Smoke - This Week In Retro 211 45:20

2M ago45:20

45:20

🛠 Check out PCBWay at https://pcbway.com/ for all your PCB needs! 🛠 Is your Super Nintendo (SNES) speeding up? (yes, it is.) Windows 3 can now use modern graphics cards thanks to a new driver. What is to blame for our old retro tech going up in smoke? Rees has joined Dave this week to talk about all the above and more. Thanks Rees. Be sure to check…

1
Ep. 249: Legends Amplified: Ric Ocasek 1:06:41

2M ago1:06:41

1:06:41

In the first episode of Legends Amplified, Chris DeMakes is joined by co-host and producer Chris Fafalios for an in-depth exploration of Ric Ocasek, the legendary frontman of The Cars. The duo explores Ocasek's early life, the formation of The Cars, and the band's meteoric rise to fame, fueled by their innovative sound and the massive impact of MTV…

1
The Next Episode - This Week In Retro 210 1:00:05

2M ago1:00:05

1:00:05

🛠 Check out PCBWay at https://pcbway.com/ for all your PCB needs! 🛠 Did you miss out on the Spectrum Next? You might get another chance! Want to see some prototype and unreleased consoles? Do you miss Acclaim? These questions and more answered on this week's retro gaming show. 00:00 - Show Opening 08:49 - Next Up Round Three Story Link: https://www…

1
Throwback Thursday: Dave King discusses Flogging Molly’s “Drunken Lullabies” 1:21:41

3M ago1:21:41

1:21:41

This week’s Throwback Thursday revisits Episode 146, originally aired on March 13th, 2023, with special guest Dave King of Flogging Molly. Renowned for their unique blend of punk rock energy and traditional Irish folk music, Flogging Molly captured the hearts of fans worldwide with their 2002 anthem “Drunken Lullabies.” In this episode, Dave shares…

1
Ep. 248: Brendan B. Brown discusses Wheatus "Lemonade" 1:25:07

3M ago1:25:07

1:25:07

This week, Brendan B. Brown of Wheatus sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the band's 2003 single "Lemonade," a fan-favorite song that blends raw emotion with undeniable hooks. He and Chris explore the song’s evolution, from its themes of jealousy and heartbreak to the production choices that gave it its signature sound—including why Br…

1
He's Back! - This Week In Retro 209 1:06:57

2M ago1:06:57

1:06:57

We are joined by Lee from More Fun Making It! Retro gaming and computing chat about such things as how some publishers have got things a bit wrong recently and about how Terminator 2 is getting a brand new game which looks like it is the game that should have come out back in the day. Why not see what things Lee has had fun making at: https://www.m…

1
Ep. 247: Danbert Nobacon discusses Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping” 1:11:49

3M ago1:11:49

1:11:49

This week, Danbert Nobacon of Chumbawamba sits in to break down the writing and recording of the band's massive 1997 hit, "Tubthumping." He and Chris explore the song’s punk-influenced origins, its anthemic structure, and how its themes of resilience and working-class pub culture resonated worldwide. Danbert shares insights into the band's approach…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Chris DeMakes Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

1
Chris DeMakes A Podcast

Chris DeMakes

1
This Week in Retro

Chris from 005 AGIMA, Jason from The Retro Adventurers, Dave and Duncan Styles

1
Ep. 259: J Navarro discusses The Suicide Machines “S.O.S.” 1:05:26

1
Half A Century Of Type-Ins - This Week In Retro 220 54:18

1
Throwback Thursday: Tahlena Chikami discusses Bite Me Bambi's "Bad Boyfriend" 1:17:53

1
Ep. 258: Brittany Luna and Tim Hildebrand discuss Catbite’s “Tired of Talk (feat. Patrick Stump)” 1:12:30

1
Video Games Aren’t Real, They Can’t Hurt You! - This Week In Retro 219 1:03:00

1
It's May 16th! Revisiting Ep. 51: Joey Cape discusses Lagwagon's "May 16" 1:22:41

1
Throwback Thursday: Angelo Moore discusses Fishbone's "Party At Ground Zero" 1:27:30

1
Ep. 257: JR Wasilewski discusses Less Than Jake’s “Walking Pipebomb” 1:14:47

1
Was 2000 The Best Year For Gaming? - This Week In Retro 218 54:17

1
Throwback Thursday: Bert McCracken discusses The Used's "The Taste of Ink" 1:20:36

1
Ep. 256: Stacy Jones discusses American Hi-Fi’s “Flavor of the Weak” 1:25:57

1
Outrun On The Big Telly - This Week In Retro 217 1:12:07

1
Ep. 255: A discussion on Coolio's "Gangsta's Paradise (feat. L.V.)" 1:07:52

51
Super Fast Win 98 Install - This Week In Retro 216 1:00:39

1
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party “April 24th: The Most Historic of Days” episode 38:11

1
Ep. 254: Michael Imperioli discusses ZOPA’s “A Still Life” 1:20:58

51
16-Bit Demakes & OS Updates - This Week In Retro 215 58:42

1
Ep. 253: Dani Filth discusses Cradle of Filth’s “Nymphetamine Fix” 1:22:35

1
Chiptune Heaven - This Week In Retro 214 59:27

1
Ep. 252: Anty Horgan discusses The Bennies “Party Machine” 1:09:36

1
Atari Shock - This Week In Retro 213 1:02:03

1
Ep. 251: Martin Fry discusses ABC's "The Look of Love" 1:28:50

1
4 Tales Of Retro Woe - This Week In Retro 212 1:12:25

1
Ep. 250: Josh Goldman discusses The Raging Nathans “The Grudge” 1:12:47

1
Retro Tech Up In Smoke - This Week In Retro 211 45:20

1
Ep. 249: Legends Amplified: Ric Ocasek 1:06:41

1
The Next Episode - This Week In Retro 210 1:00:05

1
Throwback Thursday: Dave King discusses Flogging Molly’s “Drunken Lullabies” 1:21:41

1
Ep. 248: Brendan B. Brown discusses Wheatus "Lemonade" 1:25:07

1
He's Back! - This Week In Retro 209 1:06:57

1
Ep. 247: Danbert Nobacon discusses Chumbawamba’s “Tubthumping” 1:11:49