Nicko McBrain, the iconic drummer of Iron Maiden for 42 years, recently retired from touring, has teamed up with Modern Drummer CEO, David Frangioni to bring fans the Heavy Metal podcast they’ve been waiting for: Metal Sticks! Dedicated to interviewing iconic artists, educating drummers of all styles and genres, amplifying young talent, and showcasing Nicko’s archive of iconic gear & memorabilia, Metal Sticks aims to inspire all generations of Heavy Metal fans. While drummers will find invaluable tips and insight, all musicians and fans will be thrilled to watch the unpredictable and always entertaining antics of the legendary drummer. Built on the pillars of Inspiration, Access, and Heavy Metal history, Metal Sticks fuels the passion of the genre while letting fans into the world of Nicko & Modern Drummer.
1984 Is When I Finally Got My Drum Sound #vanhalen #alexvanhalen
Only took 6 albums #drummer #avh #metalsticks
1 Jan 2026
Alex Van Halen joins Nicko McBrain, & David Frangioni for the Season Finale of Metal Sticks
Metalheads! The season finale of Metal Sticks delivers an extraordinary and rare conversation with Alex Van Halen.
In this exclusive episode, Alex joins hosts Nicko McBrain and David Frangioni for a wide-ranging discussion that offers a unique window into his world. Alex shares what he’s been up to, reflects on the Van Halen albums, revisits some of his drum setups through the years, and dives into recording experiences and philosophies that helped define one of the most influential bands in rock history.
Insightful, candid, and deeply personal, this special season finale is a must-watch for drummers, musicians, and Van Halen fans alike.
#nickomcbrain #alexvanhalen #davidfrangioni #vanhalen @davidfrangioni @ironmaiden @VanHalen
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
Co-Produced by: Nicko McBrain, David Frangioni, and Jason Mehler
Connect with David Frangioni on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfrangioni/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn0aWIN1LQdrgZC6TP9dviA
25 Dec 2025
Legacy of the Beast Gong #metalsticks #ironmaiden
trippy gong #nickomcbrain #davidfrangioni #johndouglasart @davidfrangioni @ironmaiden
24 Dec 2025
NIcko talks about his Piece of Mind and Powerslave drums on Metal Sticks Episode 1 #metalsticks
#ironmaiden #nickomcbrain #heavymetal
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
23 Nov 2025
Metal Sticks S1E6 Part 1: Mikkey Dee, Nicko McBrain & David Frangioni
Metalheads! Welcome back to Metal Sticks!
In this two-part special, Mikkey Dee - drummer for Scorpions and longtime Motörhead powerhouse—joins hosts Nicko McBrain and David Frangioni for a conversation you won’t forget.
Part 1 touches on the Scorpions’ high-energy Las Vegas residency, Mikkey’s legendary years with Motörhead, his evolution as a drummer, and the stories behind some of his fondest memories. It’s a rare chance to hear one of rock and metal’s heaviest hitters open up about the moments that shaped his career.
#MikkeyDee #Scorpions #metal #nickomcbrain #davidfrangioni
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
Co-Produced by: Nicko McBrain, David Frangioni, and Jason Mehler
Connect with David Frangioni on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfrangioni/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn0aWIN1LQdrgZC6TP9dviA
Editor: Jose Faria
MD Cover Photo: Alex Kluft
9 Nov 2025
Metal Sticks S1E5: Steve Vai, Nicko McBrain & David Frangioni
Metalheads! Welcome back to Metal Sticks! In this episode, guitar legend Steve Vai joins hosts Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden) and David Frangioni (Modern Drummer CEO) for an unforgettable conversation. Vai shares rare insights into his groundbreaking career, collaborations, deep connection with drummers, and what continues to drive his artistic evolution. Expect powerful stories, laughs, and inspiring moments as three masters of their craft dive into the art of rock and metal.
#stevevai #guitarplayer #nickomcbrain #ironmaiden #metalsticks @ironmaiden @davidfrangioni @SteveVaiHimself
Buy Infinite Dreams Book: https://www.ironmaiden.com/iron-maiden-infinite-dreams/
Catch up on the episodes:
S1E4 Charlie Benante Part 2: https://youtu.be/bC1pQky8d70
S1E3 Charlie Benante Part 1: https://youtu.be/pgu7K1V1nX4
S1E2 Ian Paice: https://youtu.be/Dt5fjdjceaI
S1E1 Nicko McBrain: https://youtu.be/SUGQDSav1cg
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
Co-Produced by: Nicko McBrain, David Frangioni, and Jason Mehler
Connect with David Frangioni on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfrangioni/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn0aWIN1LQdrgZC6TP9dviA
Editor: Jose Faria
31 Oct 2025
"The criminals were AT THE SHOW!"
Watch Metal Sticks Episode 4 Part 2: https://youtu.be/bC1pQky8d70
#nickomcbrain #davidfrangioni @davidfrangioni @ironmaiden #charliebenante #pantera
29 Oct 2025
Charlie Benante discusses Rude cymbals on Metal Sticks podcast #pantera #metalsticks
Watch Metal Sticks Episode 4 Part 2: https://youtu.be/bC1pQky8d70
#nickomcbrain #davidfrangioni @davidfrangioni @ironmaiden
22 Oct 2025
Metal Sticks S1E4 Part 2: Charlie Benante, Nicko McBrain & David Frangioni
Join us for Part 2 of our conversation with Charlie Benante, as he, Nicko, and David reflect on the legacy of their friend and Metal pioneer, the late, great Ozzy Osbourne. They share personal stories and discuss Ozzy’s profound influence on generations of musicians, fans, and the entire music industry.
#pantera #anthrax #charliebenante #ironmaiden #drums @TheCharlieBenante @pantera @ironmaiden @davidfrangioni
Catch up on the episodes:
S1E3 Charlie Benante Part 1: https://youtu.be/pgu7K1V1nX4
S1E2 Ian Paice: https://youtu.be/Dt5fjdjceaI
S1E1 Nicko McBrain: https://youtu.be/SUGQDSav1cg
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
Co-Produced by: Nicko McBrain, David Frangioni, and Jason Mehler
Connect with David Frangioni on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfrangioni/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn0aWIN1LQdrgZC6TP9dviA
Editor: Jose Faria
7 Oct 2025
Metal Sticks #S1E3 Part 1: Charlie Benante, Nicko McBrain & David Frangioni
Welcome back to Metal Sticks Episode 3 - The first of a two-part series where Nicko and David sit down with the legendary Charlie Benante of Pantera and Anthrax. Charlie opens up about what it means to honor his late friends Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell by stepping behind the kit for Pantera — a role he approaches with deep respect and gratitude. He also dives deep into his drum gear journey, geeking out with the hosts about his setup and sound. You won’t want to miss it!
#pantera #anthrax #charliebenante #ironmaiden #drums @TheCharlieBenante @pantera @ironmaiden @davidfrangioni
Catch up on the episodes:
S1E1 Nicko McBrain: https://youtu.be/SUGQDSav1cg
S1E2 Ian Paice: https://youtu.be/Dt5fjdjceaI
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
Co-Produced by: David Frangioni, Nicko McBrain, and Jason Mehler
Connect with David Frangioni on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfrangioni/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn0aWIN1LQdrgZC6TP9dviA
Editor: Jose Faria
24 Sept 2025
Metal Sticks #S1E2: Ian Paice, Nicko McBrain & David Frangioni
Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome back to Metal Sticks! - In this second episode, Nicko and David bring on the legendary Ian Paice of Deep Purple. From the early days of defining the sound that inspired generations of metal musicians, to recording and touring well into 2025 and beyond - Ian has the stories, wisdom, and latest news you won't want to miss.
#MetalSticks #NickoMcBrain #IronMaiden #moderndrummer #deeppurple @ironmaiden @ModernDrummerOfficial @davidfrangioni @DeepPurpleOfficial
Be sure to catch Episode 1: https://youtu.be/SUGQDSav1cg
About the Series: Nicko McBrain, the iconic drummer of Iron Maiden for 42 years, recently retired from touring, has teamed up with Modern Drummer CEO, David Frangioni to bring fans the Heavy Metal podcast they’ve been waiting for: Metal Sticks!
Dedicated to interviewing iconic artists, educating drummers of all styles and genres, amplifying young talent, and showcasing Nicko’s archive of iconic gear & memorabilia, Metal Sticks aims to inspire all generations of Heavy Metal fans. While drummers will find invaluable tips and insight, all musicians and fans will be thrilled to watch the unpredictable and always entertaining antics of the legendary drummer. Built on the pillars of Inspiration, Access, and Heavy Metal history, Metal Sticks fuels the passion of the genre while letting fans into the world of Nicko & Modern Drummer.
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
Co-Produced by: David Frangioni, Nicko McBrain, and Jason Mehler
Connect with David Frangioni on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidfrangioni/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn0aWIN1LQdrgZC6TP9dviA
Editor: Jose Faria
Graphics: Natalie Palumbo
22 Sept 2025
Nicko & David point out similarities of being a musician in different genres #metalsticks
Watch Metal Sticks Episode 1: https://youtu.be/SUGQDSav1cg
#nickomcbrain #davidfrangioni @davidfrangioni @ironmaiden
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
11 Sept 2025
Nicko McBrain on the final salute from his Iron Maiden buddies #metalsticks
Watch Metal Sticks Episode 1: https://youtu.be/SUGQDSav1cg
#nickomcbrain #davidfrangioni @davidfrangioni @ironmaiden
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
10 Sept 2025
Metal Sticks #S1E1: Nicko McBrain & David Frangioni
Nicko McBrain, the iconic drummer of Iron Maiden for 42 years, recently retired from touring, has teamed up with Modern Drummer CEO, David Frangioni to bring fans the Heavy Metal podcast they’ve been waiting for: Metal Sticks!
Dedicated to interviewing iconic artists, educating drummers of all styles and genres, amplifying young talent, and showcasing Nicko’s archive of iconic gear & memorabilia, Metal Sticks aims to inspire all generations of Heavy Metal fans. While drummers will find invaluable tips and insight, all musicians and fans will be thrilled to watch the unpredictable and always entertaining antics of the legendary drummer. Built on the pillars of Inspiration, Access, and Heavy Metal history, Metal Sticks fuels the passion of the genre while letting fans into the world of Nicko & Modern Drummer.
#MetalSticks #NickoMcBrain #IronMaiden #moderndrummer @ironmaiden @ModernDrummerOfficial
Want early access to videos like this? Join our channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChdBw0Hg_27aS88DiG4p5qw/join
Modern Drummer is the world's #1 publication on drums and drumming. Loud and proud — and representing all styles and skill levels — since 1977. Subscribe to our digital monthly magazine at: Https://www.moderndrummer.com/subscribe
https://www.moderndrummer.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ModernDrummer/
https://twitter.com/modern_drummer
https://www.instagram.com/modern_drummer/
Co-Produced by: David Frangioni, Nicko McBrain, and Jason Mehler
Editors: Mariano Blayo & Jose Faria
Production Crew: Felipe Laverde
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.9 / 5
8 ratings
Contact Metal Sticks
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Metal Sticks?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
