Going Off Track

Rise Against frontman, Tim McIlrath is a modern day icon of punk rock and it was a delight to hear some of his origin stories and insights on life. His "best-of-Chicago" list is solid info too, even though he refused commit on a pizza spot.

Brilliant young songwriter and producer, Bartees Strange makes compelling, vital music. He's got a lot to talk about as well, like growing up an outcast in Oklahoma then finally finding identity in an all-black neighborhood in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

Hardcore punk band, War On Women shred on stage and walk the walk offstage where they take real action on some of the big social issues that come up in their songs. From feminism to angry skinheads, this is a fun and enlightening chat with Shawna and Sue.

Punk-rock producer and hardcore-frontman for Battery, Brian McTernan has a lot to talk about, including some memorable experiences with Benny. We talk straight-edge, worst-band-in-the-studio stories and his new band, Be Well, along the way.

Fat Mike of NoFX is always going off track and he pulls no punches with us on this week's episode. There's plenty of raging punk rock mania but he also manages to get pretty introspective at one point... then quickly returns with a "fuck Radiohead".

The mythical Chuck Ragan of Hot Water Music gets our heads straight this week with tales of fishing, brawling and reveling in the glory of nature while staying respectful of it's fury.