This week I’m joined by not one, but two guest curators: Eric Senich, of the Van Halen News Desk as well as host of the Booked On Rock Podcast as well as Patreon Mixtaper Cactus Pete. Together, we’re crafting a mammoth-sized mixtape dedicated to the mighty Van Halen, that may (or may not?) cover all eras, singers and lineups of one of rock’s most legendary bands.

From the wild, high-energy David Lee Roth years to the chart-topping Sammy Hagar era, and yes—even selections from the often-debated Van Halen III with Gary Cherone—we’re leaving no stone unturned in this discussion. We even touch on the mythical Mitch Malloy era and explore what could have been.

Will there be a (pun absolutely intended) “balance” between the classic and post-classic lineups? How many deep cuts will sneak in among the hits? And which tracks truly represent the full sonic legacy of Eddie, Alex, and the various frontmen that helped define generations of hard rock?

Without giving too much away, rest assured—every era is on the table, and hopefully every fan will find something to love in this ultimate Van Halen mixtape discussion. Whether you’re a diehard Roth loyalist, a Hagar defender, or someone who appreciates the band’s full spectrum, this episode is a high-voltage celebration of Van Halen’s unmatched impact on rock!

🎙️ Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform—and don’t forget to leave a 5-star review to help more rock fans find the show!

SIDE A

• Eruption (from Van Halen 1)
• You Really Got Me (from Van Halen 1)
• Poundcake (from For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge)
• Me Wise Magic (from Best Of Vol. 1)
• Crossing Over (from the Japanese Ed. of Balance)
• Mean Street (from Fair Warning)
• Little Guitars (from Diver Down)
• Dreams (from 5150)
• Drop Dead Legs (from 1984)
• Runaround (from For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge)
• Romeo Delight (from Women & Children First)
• Finish What Ya Started (from OU812)

SIDE B

• Panama (from 1984)
• …And The Cradle Will Rock (from Women & Children First)
• Good Enough (from 5150)
• Beautiful Girls (from Van Halen 2)
• Ain’t Talkin’ Bout Love (from Van Halen 1)
• In a Simple Rhyme (from Women & Children First)
• Right Now (from For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge)
• The Seventh Seal (from Balance)
• As Is (from A Different Kind Of Truth)
• Unchained (from Fair Warning)
• Dance The Night Away (from Van Halen 2)
• Feels So Good (from OU812)