On Tuesday’s Loudwire Nights (Jan. 28), hosts Janiece Gonzalez and Alex Wein joined Chuck Armstrong for an in-depth discussion about their dynamic band, Mean Mistreater, and the highly anticipated release of their second studio album, Do or Die. This lively conversation delves into their creative process, inspirations, and the exciting journey that lies ahead for the band.

Make sure to listen to the full conversation in the player located near the end of this article to catch all the insights and behind-the-scenes stories.

Describing the essence of their music, Wein, the talented guitarist of Mean Mistreater, stated, “Mean Mistreater is a rock and roll band and we’re all about having fun, going fast, and just grabbing life by the balls.” This reflects the energy and passion that drives their musical endeavors and connects with their audience.

Vocalist Gonzalez emphasized their relentless work ethic, saying, “We’ve been really just pedal to the metal for this whole year, on the road, recording, promoting.” Their commitment to music and performance showcases their ambition and dedication to making a mark in the rock and roll scene.

As a relatively new band, having formed in Austin, Texas, in 2023, the palpable excitement in Gonzalez and Wein’s voices is evident as they gear up for the release of their sophomore album, a follow-up to their debut, Razor Wire. “We’re just really, really amped about this band and we’re stoked. We’re not stopping anytime soon,” Gonzalez shared, illustrating their unyielding enthusiasm for their music and growing fanbase.

READ MORE: 25 Rock + Metal Bands You Might Not Know, But Will in 2025

The bandmates eagerly discussed the remarkable synergy they share, highlighting the genuine chemistry that fuels their songwriting and music-making process. This collaboration results in a fresh metal sound that both pays homage to the classic rock influences of the past while also carving out a unique pathway into the future of music.

“We just play the music that we like to listen to,” Gonzalez shared, emphasizing the authenticity that drives their sound.

She further elaborated, “Without it being super derivative, I’m stoked to be compared to other really great bands, but it’s just stuff I like to hear and sing.” This dedication to originality and passion for music resonates deeply with their listeners and sets Mean Mistreater apart in the competitive rock landscape.

Key Highlights from Mean Mistreater’s Appearance on Loudwire Nights

• The origin of their band name: “Muddy Waters used ‘mean mistreater’ as a song title, so I figured [it’s] kind of moving it back on down to heavy metal. Now we’re using Mean Mistreater.”
• Their musical influences: “Straight out of San Francisco, Chastain is my all-time favorite … There’s a lot of punk influence in the way that I write and the way that I sing, too.”
• The importance of creating memorable and unique album art and merchandise: “I just want to put stuff out there that I want to wear … Shout out to our album artist, Edgar Regalado, another Texas artist.”

Catch the Complete Interview in the Podcast Player Below

Janiece Gonzalez and Alex Wein joined Loudwire Nights on Tuesday, Jan. 28; the show replays online here, and you can tune in live every weeknight at 7PM ET or on the Loudwire app. Additionally, check if the show is available on your local radio station to listen to interviews on-demand.