Episodios

  • I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight - Richard & Linda Thompson (#485)

    I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight - Richard & Linda Thompson (#485)
    Apr 22 2025
    In this episode, Dan and Carl dive deep into I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight, the 1974 debut collaborative album by British folk-rock icons Richard and Linda Thompson. The duo explores the album's rich musical textures, varied instrumentation, and emotional range, offering technical insight and personal reactions. From Celtic-tinged folk ballads to moody rock moments, the album’s instrumentation (featuring mandolins, tin whistles, crumhorns, and concertinas) celebrates diverse timbres and musical ambition. Carl shares the surprising story behind his family’s connection to vinyl needle manufacturing, while Dan breaks down modal scales like Mixolydian and Phrygian with real-time examples. The hosts unpack the slow-burning melancholy of tracks like “Withered and Died,” the pub-ready energy of “We Sing Hallelujah,” and the absolute musical brilliance of “The Great Valerio.” Key Points Album Context: Released in 1974 on Island Records; Richard and Linda Thompson's first official album as a duo.Genre Blending: A fusion of British folk, country, and folk-rock with inventive instrumentation and experimental production choices.Thematic Core: Recurring themes include disillusionment, longing, loneliness, and spiritual searching. Instrument Highlights: Features unique folk instruments like the crumbhorn, concertina, and tin whistle, alongside rich guitar textures and vintage electric piano tones. Music Referenced Fairport ConventionGary RaffertyLil WayneAnthraxBob DylanJoan BaezJoni MitchellCourtney LoveJoan JettAnn WilsonHeartStairway to Heaven by Led ZeppelinNancy WilsonJason BonhamJohn BonhamFuneral by Arcade FireBackseat by Arcade FireBlueberry HillYellow by ColdplayHocus Pocus by FocusI'll Be Around by The SpinnersThis Must Be the Place (Naive Melody) by Talking HeadsCloser by The ChainsmokersAC/DCGrateful DeadCreep by RadioheadBohemian Rhapsody by QueenNick of Time by Bonnie RaittKurt CobainStone Temple PilotsNirvanaTogether Again by Buck OwensMalagueña by Roy ClarkVince GillHerbie HancockSteely DanCool and the GangBlack MidiLewis ColeMars VoltaPeripheryRushKing Crimson Join us next week when we cover Born This Way by Lady Gaga
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    1 h y 27 m
  • Continuum - John Mayer (#486)

    Continuum - John Mayer (#486)
    Apr 15 2025
    Overview In Episode 15, Dan and Carl finally hit a record they both adore—John Mayer’s Continuum, ranked #486 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. The fanboying is real, but so is the deep analysis. This episode covers Mayer’s transition from pop darling to a serious blues craftsman, from subtle production choices to guitar tone breakdowns and harmony dives. With legendary players like Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino, Continuum serves up soulful grooves, emotional depth, and masterful songwriting. Key Points Personal Bias Admitted: Dan and Carl are massive fans of Continuum—this is one of their “desert island” albums.Mayer’s Career Shift: Discussion of Mayer’s evolution from Room for Squares pop fame to a blues-rooted, emotionally introspective artist.The Trio Effect: Deep appreciation for the influence of the John Mayer Trio (with Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino) on this record’s vibe.Guitar Tone & Production: Praise for Steve Jordan’s dry snares, Mayer’s tasteful guitar phrasing, and Charlie Hunter’s influence.Lyrical Depth: Songs like “Belief” and “Gravity” reveal Mayer’s internal struggles, philosophical reflection, and social commentary.Theory Corner Highlights: Dan breaks down modal shifts, bridge tricks, and harmonic depth in “Gravity” and “Stop This Train.”Emotional Arc: The album’s track list flows through apathy, introspection, fame fatigue, relationship collapse, and hard-won wisdom. Music Referenced Room for Squares by John MayerHeavier Things by John MayerBattle Studies by John MayerBorn and Raised by John MayerThe Search for Everything by John MayerTry! by John MayerYour Body Is a Wonderland by John MayerDaughters by John MayerSteve Ray VaughanJimi HendrixBurn One Down by Ben HarperSteal My Kisses by Ben HarperCharlie HunterVoodoo by D'AngeloBonnie RaittColdplayChris MartinNever Gonna Be Alone by Jacob CollierLizzy McAlpineI've Got Dreams to Remember by Otis ReddingWhat I Am by Edie BrickellStay Awhile by Edie BrickellMore Than Words by ExtremeJack BlackOn Bended Knee by Boyz II MenAdeleSatellite by Dave Matthews BandLindsey BuckinghamStevie NicksSimon & GarfunkelPaul SimonPeter GabrielNuno BettencourtAnita BakerJames TaylorStevie NicksBilly JoelStingSnarky PuppyCrazy by Gnarls BarkleyJennifer Love HewittJessica Simpson Join us next week when we cover I Want To See The Bright LIghts Tonight by Richard and Linda Thompson Got thoughts? Disagree? Just want to scream about “Vultures”? Hit us up: 📧 backwardsbeatspodcast@gmail.com 📷 Instagram: @backwardsbeatspodcast 🌐 Bluesky: @backwardsbeats
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    1 h y 45 m
  • Episode 14: Damaged by Black Flag

    Episode 14: Damaged by Black Flag
    Apr 8 2025
    In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Black Flag's ferocious 1981 debut, Damaged — an album that defines hardcore punk with raw energy, cathartic aggression, and DIY ethos. Coming in at #487 on Rolling Stone's list, Damaged is an iconic record that helped shape the sound and spirit of American punk. The guys also kick things off by recapping their weekend trip to the GroundUP Music Festival in Miami and all the incredible artists they encountered. Key Points 🎶 Punk Iconography: Damaged is discussed as a landmark hardcore punk record with a gritty visual and sonic aesthetic — from its cover art to its aggressive sound and anti-establishment themes.🎤 Band Origins & Lineup Shifts: Formed in 1976 as Panic, Black Flag underwent several member changes before Damaged, with early members like Keith Morris (later of Circle Jerks) and the arrival of Henry Rollins.🧠 Greg Ginn & DIY Spirit: Founding guitarist Greg Ginn created SST Records to independently release Black Flag’s music, setting a precedent for punk labels and the underground music scene.📚 Cultural Commentary: The band’s art and lyrics often critique societal norms, domestic life, and conformity — giving Damaged a raw, confrontational stance.🥁 Musical Style: Fast, furious, and over in 35 minutes — the album exemplifies hardcore punk: stripped-down production, relentless tempo, and emotional outbursts.🌀 Descent into Madness: From the rebellious intro "Rise Above," the arc of the album slowly becomes darker and more self-absorbed until the traumatic finale of "Damaged I"🏝️ GroundUP Music Festival Recap: Carl and Dan share highlights from the Miami festival hosted by Snarky Puppy, including performances by Eric Gales, Bill Frisell, John Scofield, and more. Music Referenced Snarky PoppyEric GalesBill FruzelJohn ScofieldMadison McFarronNever mind the bollocks by Sex PistolsMisfitsHüsker DüSonic YouthMinutemenCircle JerksBon JoviFugaziMinor ThreatTrue colors by Cindy LauperOrnette ColemanEd SheeranAja by Steely DanBodhisattva by Steely DanFresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables by Dead KennedysIn God We Trust by Dead KennedysIll in the Head by Dead KennedysNazi Punks Fuck Off by Dead KennedysFits Like a Glove by KissSeek & Destroy by MetallicaRage Against the MachineFuck the Police by NWAThe DoorsThe UrgeUrge OverkillSuperman by GoldfingerCrucial Bar-B-Q by Murphy's LawManic Depression by King's XManic Depression by Jimi Hendrix Join us next week when we discuss album 486, Continuum by John Mayer
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    1 h y 38 m
  • Episode 13: The Stooges by the Stooges

    Episode 13: The Stooges by the Stooges
    Apr 1 2025

    This week, Dan and Carl dive into the raw and rebellious energy of The Stooges’ self-titled 1969 debut. A proto-punk classic that laid the foundation for punk and garage rock, this album is as chaotic as it is influential. From Iggy Pop’s unhinged vocals to Ron Asheton’s sludgy guitar riffs, we break down why this record was both ahead of its time and completely out of control.

    Key Points
    • Background & Context – The late 60s rock scene, the rise of punk influences, and how The Stooges fit into the era.
    • Album Breakdown – Track-by-track discussion, including the hypnotic repetition of We Will Fall and the raw power of I Wanna Be Your Dog.
    • Production & Sound – John Cale’s role in shaping the album’s sound and how it differs from later Stooges releases.
    • Legacy & Influence – How The Stooges paved the way for punk, influencing everyone from the Sex Pistols to Nirvana.
    • Would You Hit It? – Do we think this album still holds up, or is it just a messy relic of the past?
    Music Referenced
    • The Stooges by The Stooges
    • Fun House by The Stooges
    • Raw Power by The Stooges
    • Iggy Pop
    • The Doors by The Doors
    • Slipknot
    • Marilyn Manson
    • Velvet Underground
    • Jimi Hendrix
    • New York Dolls
    • Ozzy Osbourne
    • Chapell Roan
    • Rihanna
    • Rolling Stones
    • Youth and Young Manhood by Kings of Leon
    • Here, My Dear by Marvin Gaye
    • Bonnie Raitt
    • Never Mind the Bollocks by Sex Pistols
    • Ramones
    • Kurt Cobain
    • Little Richard
    • Metallica
    • The Beatles
    • I Kill Children by Dead Kennedys
    • Mother's Milk by Red Hot Chili Peppers
    • Suicidal Tendencies
    • Drunk by Thunder Cat

    Contact Us
    • Share Your Thoughts: Email us at backwardsbeatspodcast@gmail.com

    Join us next week when we cover album 487: Damaged by Black Flag
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    1 h y 15 m
  • Episode 12: Back to Mono by Phil Spector

    Episode 12: Back to Mono by Phil Spector
    Mar 25 2025

    In this episode, Dan and Carl dive into Back to Mono (1958-1969), a massive 73-song compilation produced by Phil Spector. The duo discusses the challenges of covering such an extensive box set, the impact of the "Wall of Sound" production style, and how Spector’s legacy complicates the album’s place on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Instead of focusing on Spector, they highlight the incredible artists featured on this compilation, including The Ronettes, The Righteous Brothers, and Darlene Love.

    Key Points
    • The Wall of Sound – How Phil Spector’s signature production style shaped 1960s pop music and why it works (or doesn’t) for certain songs.
    • Spector’s Legacy – The controversy surrounding Phil Spector and how Rolling Stone drastically changed the album’s ranking over the years.
    • Artist Highlights – Deep dives into standout performances from The Crystals, The Righteous Brothers, Tina Turner, and more.
    • Unchained Melody Stands Above – Why Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers remains an all-time classic and one of the best vocal performances ever recorded.
    • Obscure Gems & Oddities – Hidden gems like Pretty Little Angel Eyes by Curtis Lee and unusual tracks like He Hit Me (And It Felt Like a Kiss) by The Crystals.
    • Phil Spector’s Christmas Influence – A discussion of how A Christmas Gift for You shaped holiday music, featuring Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by Darlene Love.
    • Too Much of a Good Thing? – Does this compilation truly belong on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums list, or is it a historical artifact?
    Music Referenced
    • With the Beatles by The Beatles
    • Hold Me Tight by The Beatles
    • Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys
    • A Christmas Gift for You by Bing Crosby
    • Michael Bublé
    • Elvis Presley
    • Frankie Valli
    • Mexico by James Taylor
    • Have a Good Time by Paul Simon
    • Heartbreaker by Pat Benatar
    • Love Gun by Kiss
    • Then She Kissed Me by Kiss
    • Then She Kissed Me by Gary Glitter
    • I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston
    • Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by U2
    • Take Me Home Tonight by Eddie Money
    • Under the Boardwalk by The Drifters
    • Save the Last Dance for Me by The Drifters
    • Grease Soundtrack (The Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Shanana
    • Grease Soundtrack (The Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Olivia Newton-John
    • Happy Xmas (War Is Over) by John Lennon
    • Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney
    • Last Christmas by Wham!

    Join us next week when we cover album 488, The Stooges, by The Stooges
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    1 h y 24 m
  • Episode 11: Heart Like A Wheel by Linda Ronstadt

    Episode 11: Heart Like A Wheel by Linda Ronstadt
    Mar 18 2025

    In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl take a deep dive into Heart Like a Wheel, Linda Ronstadt’s 1974 breakthrough album. They explore Ronstadt’s immense vocal talent, her impact on the Southern California music scene, and her impressive ability to cross musical genres. With a mix of country, rock, and pop influences, Heart Like a Wheel cemented Ronstadt’s place as a powerhouse in the music industry. Dan and Carl also discuss the album’s historical significance, standout tracks, and how it stacks up against other classic records.

    Key Points
    • Linda Ronstadt’s Background: Born in 1946 in Tucson, Arizona, Ronstadt grew up surrounded by music, heavily influenced by her father’s love of traditional Mexican songs.
    • Formation of The Eagles: Ronstadt played a key role in the early careers of Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and other Eagles members, as they were originally part of her backing band.
    • Covers Done Right: Heart Like a Wheel is an album of covers that showcases Ronstadt’s ability to reinterpret and elevate existing material with stunning vocal precision.
    • Biggest Hits:
      • You're No Good – A dark and moody classic that kicks off the album with a bang.
      • When Will I Be Loved – A high-energy Everly Brothers cover that brings a needed boost to the second half of the album.
      • It Doesn't Matter Anymore – A heartfelt take on the Buddy Holly classic.
      • Willin’ – A beautiful, hypnotic rendition of the Little Feat song, rumored to be tied to a personal connection with Lowell George.
    • Notable Musicians and Contributions:
      • Background vocals by Sissy Houston (mother of Whitney Houston) on Dark End of the Street.
      • Instrumental features by Sneaky Pete Kleinow (pedal steel), Andrew Gold (piano, guitar), and Emmylou Harris (harmonies on I Can’t Help It If I’m Still in Love with You).
      • Album produced by Peter Asher, also known for his work with James Taylor and Bonnie Raitt.
    • Production Quality: A mostly clean and warm production, though some arrangements (such as the title track) stand out stylistically from the rest of the album.
    • Final Verdict: Heart Like a Wheel is an incredibly listenable album, full of fantastic musicianship and timeless vocal performances. Dan and Carl both agree: They would hit it!
    Music Referenced
    • The Eagles
    • Van Halen II by Van Halen
    • You're No Good by Van Halen
    • It Doesn't Matter Anymore by Buddy Holly
    • It Doesn't Matter Anymore by Paul Anka
    • When Will I Be Loved by The Everly Brothers
    • Willin' by Little Feat
    • Willin' by Lowell George
    • I Can't Help It (If I'm Still in Love with You) by Hank Williams
    • You Can Close Your Eyes by James Taylor
    • Frank Zappa
    • Sissy Houston
    • Whitney Houston
    • Andrew Gold
    • Emmylou Harris
    • Peter Asher
    • Bonnie Raitt

    Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Join us next week as we take on Back to Mono (1958-1969) by Phil Spector and Various Artists!
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    1 h y 8 m
  • Episode 10: Harry's House by Harry Styles

    Episode 10: Harry's House by Harry Styles
    Mar 11 2025

    In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Harry Styles’ 2022 album Harry’s House. But not before they confess to accidentally reviewing the wrong Harry Styles album first — because why make it easy? Along the way, they unpack Harry’s House track by track, dive into Harry’s evolution from One Direction heartthrob to solo superstar, and discover just how many legends quietly contributed to this pop powerhouse.

    Key Points
    • The Great Mix-Up: Dan and Carl originally reviewed Fine Line by mistake — that episode’s coming later as bonus content.
    • About the Album: Released in 2022, Harry’s House blends synth-pop, 80s callbacks, and modern production across 13 tracks.
    • Production Powerhouse: Produced by Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson, and Samuel Witte, with session players like Pino Palladino and surprise guitar work from John Mayer.
    • Standout Tracks: From the quirky funk of Music for a Sushi Restaurant to the emotional gut punch of Matilda, Dan and Carl debate their favorites — and agree surprisingly often.
    • 80s Influence: Expect callbacks to Prince, The Cure, Todd Rundgren, and even a dash of Daft Punk.
    • The Tuna Incident: Carl’s infamous pre-gig sushi disaster resurfaces, because raw fish always comes back to haunt you.
    Music Referenced
    • Luck of the Draw by Bonnie Raitt
    • Fleetwood Mac
    • Music by 311
    • Homebrew by 311
    • 311 (The Blue Album) by 311
    • Down by 311
    • All Mixed Up by 311
    • Stop This Train by John Mayer
    • Shania Twain
    • I Can't Go for That by Daryl Hall & John Oates
    • Take Me to the River by Talking Heads
    • Werewolves of London by Warren Zevon
    • All Summer Long by Kid Rock
    • Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits
    • David Crosby
    • Graham Nash
    • Family Dinner - Volume 1 by Snarky Puppy
    • Family Dinner - Volume 2 by Snarky Puppy
    • Something by Snarky Puppy
    • Lalah Hathaway
    • On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
    • Turn the Page by Bob Seger
    • Turn the Page by Metallica
    • Herbie Hancock
    • Prelude to a Kiss by Duke Ellington
    • Walking on Broken Glass by Annie Lennox
    • Here Comes the Rain Again by The Eurythmics
    • Sting
    • Jacob Collier

    Join us next week where we cover the album Heart Like a Wheel by Linda Ronstadt
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    1 h y 27 m
  • Episode 9: Nick of Time by Bonnie Raitt

    Episode 9: Nick of Time by Bonnie Raitt
    Mar 4 2025
    In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Bonnie Raitt’s Nick of Time, a landmark album that was her breakthrough after years in the industry. They explore the album’s unique blend of blues, country, folk, and soft rock, discuss the impact of its production, and highlight some of its most compelling musical moments. Along the way, they touch on Bonnie Raitt’s career resilience, her Scottish ancestry (including a chilling ghost story), and her influence on modern Americana. Key Points Bonnie Raitt’s Career Arc – How *Nick of Time marked her mainstream breakthrough after a decade of persistence.*Production & Sound – The album features three distinct production styles, from polished soft rock to raw, intimate blues.Musical Deep Dives* – Dan breaks down the harmonic sophistication of the title track and how the arrangement reinforces the song’s storytelling.The Mystery of the 500 List – Dan and Carl debate why Nick of Time made Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums list, while Luck of the Draw, her more commercially successful follow-up, did not. Debora Harry singing Duke Ellington's Prelude to a Kiss Annie Lennox singing Cole Porter's Every Time We Say Goodbye Music Referenced Luck of the Draw by Bonnie RaittFleetwood MacMusic by 311Homebrew by 311311 (The Blue Album) by 311Down by 311All Mixed Up by 311Stop This Train by John MayerShania TwainI Can't Go for That by Daryl Hall & John OatesTake Me to the River by Talking HeadsWerewolves of London by Warren ZevonAll Summer Long by Kid RockBrothers in Arms by Dire StraitsDavid CrosbyGraham NashFamily Dinner - Volume 1 by Snarky PuppyFamily Dinner - Volume 2 by Snarky PuppySomething by Snarky PuppyLalah HathawayOn the Road Again by Willie NelsonTurn the Page by Bob SegerTurn the Page by MetallicaHerbie HancockPrelude to a Kiss by Duke EllingtonWalking on Broken Glass by Annie LennoxHere Comes the Rain Again by The EurythmicsStingJacob Collier Join Us Next Week Join us next week when we discuss Harry's House by Harry Styles.
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    1 h y 19 m
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