In which The Curmudgeons worship at the altar of the mighty, mighty Led Zeppelin. With scorching guitar licks, torpedo-heavy drumming and sex-god screamer vocals, this band epitomized the sensuality and the swagger of rock 'n' roll, and in presenting their take on the genre, they helped create what we now call heavy metal. During this episode, we counter some unfair myths this band has saddled with over the years and pour over its incredibly rich catalog of music with love and respect. 

 

Enjoy our special Spotify playlist featuring the stylings of Led Zeppelin:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7ldFOLlEcY7HL4zueF7JJ3?si=990fa39641cc40d7

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode. 

 

(00:52 - 05:02) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of Led Zeppelin

 

(08:30 - 22:29) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums from Arooj Aftab and Goat

 

(23:14 - 01:00:24) - We debunk five myths about Led Zeppelin and tell the remarkable story of the band's formation and ascension

 

(01:02:03 - 01:50:01) - We analyze the band's catalog of eight studio albums in detail--six classics and two decent affairs

 

01:51:00 - 02:12:55) - We tell the rest of the story that followed Led Zeppelin's break up, plus Chris O'Connor offers his list of the five best "phony" Zeppelin acts

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5fea16f1-664e-40b7-932e-5fb748cffb1d/the-curmudgeon-rock-report?refMarker=null 

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

In which The Curmudgeons kick off its latest Golen Age series of episodes by revisiting the seminal year of 1976. It was a year that saw both The Ramones and The Sex Pistols break out. To say punk was the thing that year was an understatement. It was also was vital year for arena rock, as Boston and The Eagles both dropped classic albums. We also pay tribute to work from Bob Dylan, David Bowie and Stevie Wonder, among many others. 

 

Enjoy the awesome music of 1976 by accessing our special Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6k00d7GvYsD0USPv4p1h8p?si=a511fe8d51fe4845

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode. 

 

(00:52 - 03:52) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of 1976

 

(04:13 - 20:20) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by El Khat and Geordie Greep

 

(21:05 - 01:04:35) - We cover all things punk, from The Ramones to The Sex Pistols to singles by Blondie, The Runaways and others

 

(01:06:00 - 01:39:08) - We cover albums from Boston, The Eagles, David Bowie and Stevie Wonder 

 

(01:40:20 - 02:11:25) - We engage in a lightning round, presenting 10 1976 albums we consider to be great. Artists include Fleetwood Mac, Frank Zappa, Aerosmith and Patti Smith.

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5fea16f1-664e-40b7-932e-5fb748cffb1d/the-curmudgeon-rock-report?refMarker=null 

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

 

In which the Curmudgeons hammer one of the most perplexing "it" bands of the entire 21st Century. Arcade Fire stormed out of Montreal in 2004 with Funeral, a debut album that captured the imagination of throngs of unimaginative indie hipster d-bags. Whereas their fans and a whole bunch of fawning rock critics heard glorious art in all the band's maximal grandiosity, we just heard...noise. Lots of it. A pulverizing wave of annoyance after annoyance. And the annoyance has yet to stop. Let us tell you all the ways we think this band is a giant turd burger.  

 

Listen to the abomination and judge for yourself by accessing our Arcade Fire-focused Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1C30jnDsJQySuV4wEPzq5r?si=9bd7c9df43514814

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode. 

 

(0:52 - 04:50) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our Arcade Fire beatdown

 

(05:06 - 16:21) - The Paralell Universe, featuring reviews of albums by The baby Seals and Kurt Vile

 

(17:06 - 36:25) - We goof on maximal grandiosity and discuss Arcade Fire's albums Funeral and Neon Bible

 

(37:57 - 01:03:09) - We discuss Arcade Fire's albums The Suburbs, Reflektor, Everything Now and We

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

  

 

 

In which the Curmudgeons continue their romp through rock's second golden age by revisiting perhaps the age's most underrated year. There were a ton of great albums released in 1970, as we discuss at least half-a-ton of those albums during this episode. It was a year when the rock 'n' roll generation started to mature and grow more varied in its tastes and its demands. The Beatles split up that year, and its core members all released solo albums in 1970. There also was the "soft-rock" movement, which made stars out of James Taylor, Joni Mitchell and a guy named Neil Young. We soak it all up and pay tribute to that calendar trip around the sun 54 years ago.

 

Listen to our special Spotify playlist dedicated to the sounds of 1970:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/53S1aHJv6oguRVLUtIszEe?si=22b0dfd685cd433f

 

Check out a great book about the music of 1970 we discuss - David Browne's "Fire & Rain":

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/fire-and-rain_david-browne/455158/?resultid=22bd0d08-9aae-467f-9e8b-345c1438860a#edition=6906336&idiq=7763326

 

Revisit our discussion of the Grateful Dead's early catalog of albums:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-grateful-dead-in-the-studio-a-legacy-part-1/id1551808911?i=1000577054207

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode.

 

(0:52 - 03:48) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of the music of 1970

 

(03:49 - 30:42) - Our Current Universe, featuring discussion of new music by St. Vincent, Drake and Kendrick Lamar

 

(31:27 - 01:17:43) - We discuss the explosion of "soft-rock," the first solo albums by The Beatles, James Brown, Black Sabbath and The Stooges

 

(01:45:18 - 02:24:08) - We discuss 12 more great albums releases in 1970, including releases by The Grateful Dead, Santana, The Velvet Underground and Creedence Clearwater Revival

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

  

In which The Curmudgeons straight cold rock a party and revisit hip-hop's greatest, most electrifying, most unendingly thrilling period, which stretched from 1986 to 1991. We tear through 12 brilliant albums and dozens of awesome singles that taught all the MCs and producers that followed how it should it be done--and how it would be done from here on out. We cover Run-D.M.C., Public Enemy, Schooly D, Ice Cube, 2 Live Crew, Big Daddy Kane, EPMD, Gang Starr, A Tribe Called Quest, The Beastie Boys, Queen Latifah and scores of other great and hugely influential artists. 

 

Listen to our special Spotify playlist dedicated to this episode:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4sf98fg4Qr5L4hJTg2uDQS?si=76c9e51cf474410f

 

Listen to an old episode of our podcast, in which we argue for A Tribe Called Quest's The Low End Theory as the greatest hip-hop album ever made: 

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-greatest-hip-hop-album-ever-made/id1551808911?i=1000545909663

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this new episode.

 

(0:52 - 4:43) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of hip-hop's golden age

 

(5:02 - 18:25) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums from Bodega and Mdou Moctar

 

(19:10 - 01:16:54) - The Curmudgeons analyze 12 amazing albums that sprung from the golden age of hip-hop

 

(01:18:15 - 02:14:40) - We celebrate a whole ton of great, mad-fun hip-hop singles from the golden age of hip-hop

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

In which The Curmudgeons marvel at the trainwreck that the career of a pretty fabulous rock 'n' roll singer became. Rod Stewart's gravelly, soulful voice was the engine for a series of great ramped-up yet mostly acoustic albums in the late 1960s and early 1970s, all of which cemented a solid legacy for the singer. And then Stewart became beholden to a rock-star, sexy-man persona that craved relevance more than integrity. Starting in 1975, his career descended into a series of schlocky, cheesy singles that, while they proved to be his biggest hits, must be heard to truly appreciate their awfulness. We recount both the good ol' days and the bad ol' days of Rod Stewart during this episode. 

 

Listen to all things Rod Stewart - good, bad and ugly - by accessing our special Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0nXvqAv6Yby0h6pWeDSEG4?si=1ddcbbd651df4677

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode

 

(0:52 - 03:31) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of Rod Stewart

 

(03:50 - 15:25) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by Sahra Halgan and Khruangbin

 

(16:09 - 37:33) - Good Rod - a discussion of Stewart's beginnings and analyses of his first five albums, including his masterpiece, 1971's Every Picture Tells a Story

 

(38:32 - 58:27) - Bad Rod - a discussion of Stewart's nosedive into mediocrity, following him from 1975 through the New Wave days of the early 1980s

 

(59:25 - 01:21:17) - More Bad Rod - a discussion of the nadir that was Rod Stewart's 1980s and then something of a brief comeback in the early 1990s. We end by contemplating the ultimate legacy of Rod Stewart. 

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

  

In which The Curmudgeons meditate on one of rock's most important years. The music of 1969 was as inspiring as the times it was released were tumultuous. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who all released celebrated masterworks. Southern rock was born, and the newfangled form of funk continued to evolve. And two gigantic festivals hit the United States--one glorious, the other notorious. There would be blood, serving as arguably a perfect prelude to the 1970s. 

 

Read a gripping book we discuss during the episode, Joel Selvin's "Altamont: The Rolling Stones, the Hells Angels, and the Inside Story of Rock's Darkest Day":  

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-darkness-got-to-give_joel-selvin/9920665/?resultid=fdbf7f90-5f20-4371-8ae3-f5f6616ace4f#edition=13196916&idiq=28301699

 

Listen to lots of wonderful music from 1969 by accessing our special Spotify playlist: 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7fSB03xBvDiODLdA6S1d4V?si=0c6b037284a54d13

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode

(0:52 to 2:44) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of 1969

 

(03:06 to 15:21) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by The Black Crowes and Waxahatchee

 

(16:06 to 01:14:54) - Discussion of the 1969 output of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, Led Zeppelin and The Stooges

 

(01:16:05 to 01:42:49) - Discussion of the 1969 output of Isaac Hayes, Sly & The Family Stone, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Band and The Allman Brothers

 

(01:43:48 to 02:30:06) - Discussion of a bunch of great albums from 1969, plus a contemplation of the divergent stories that were Woodstock and Altamont

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

In which The Curmudgeons make the case for what we think is one of the most underrated bands of all time: The Doors. Wait. The Doors?! Yup. Once revered and now reviled, The Doors, we believe, are viewed by younger generations as a Baby Boomer fossil that is as pretentious as it is insufferable. But that misses the mark badly. Listen as we discuss the influences and artistic ambition that made Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek and bandmates so compelling, so engaging and so original. 

 

Enjoy each of The Door's six marvelous--or at least marvelously strange--records they made with Jim Morrison via our Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6qyqDc06X5gPa2XIK2n4jR?si=01b736f7a6ab40fa

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode. 

 

(0:52 - 04:05) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of The Doors

 

(04:22 - 19:48) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of albums by Yard Act and Liquid Mike

 

(20:33 - 42:02) - We dispel five myths commonly associated with The Doors

 

(43:32 - 01:08:54) - We discuss the band's origin story. We also analyze the first three Doors albums: the self-titled debut, Strange Days and Waiting For The Sun.

 

(01:09:53 - 01:46:55) - We analyze the last three records The Doors made with Jim Morrison: The Soft Parade, Morrison Hotel and L.A. Woman. We also discuss the band's considerable influence and undeniable legacy. 

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

In which The Curmudgeons introduce you--again--to your new favorite band. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club spliced the neo-psychedelic swagger of bands like The Brian Jonestown Massacre with the rawkin' menace of the Stone Roses, Oasis and other British bands to offer a maximal yet poignant vision of what rock 'n' roll should be. Their five-album output during the first decade of the 21st century is one of the best streaks of releases in recent memory. We analyze each album as a means of explaining why B.R.M.C. was so powerful--and so ultimately meaningful. 

 

Enjoy the masterworks of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club using our special Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3POJDOxUGBOkKWVtpvSrQA?si=cd59a5b1d62046f3

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode.

 

(0:52 - 03:40) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club

 

(03:58 - 16:03) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of albums by Lime Garden and Little Simz

 

(16:48 - 37:55) - We cover BRMC's origin story and discuss the albums B.R.M.C. and Take Them On, On Your Own

 

(39:35 - 01:02:17) - WE cover the albums Howl, Baby 81 and Beat the Devil's Tattoo and contemplate BRMC's ultimate legacy 

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

In which The Curmudgeons explore the dichotomous year that followed 1967's Summer of Love trippiness. The previous year's highs represent a peak creative burst. Well, where to go next? That's where the era's most storied artists diverged. On the one hand, you had bands that went bigger and bolder--The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and The Grateful Dead fall into this category. On the other hand, you had a yearning to return to the simpler roots of rock 'n' roll, and a rush toward softer, warmer hues by The Byrds, The Band, The Kinks and others ensued. We explore both paths in depth and with panache. 

 

Enjoy the music we discuss in this episode using our Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/62VxWb48fGleKLmFkRSPF0?si=bc901034b00144ef

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode.

 

(0:52 - 02:20) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of 1968

 

(04:55 - 20:18) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of albums by Sleater-Kinney and Amyl & The Sniffers

 

(21:03 - 54:15) - WE analyze The Beatles' White Album and The Rolling Stones' Beggars Banquet

 

(55:28 - 01:19:24) - Christopher O'Connor analyzes 1968 albums by The Band, The Byrds and The Kinks

 

(01:20:22 - 02:05:22) - We cover a slew of albums, ranging from Van Morrison's Astral Weeks to The Pretty Things' S.F. Sorrow, with Jimi Hendrix and The Grateful Dead and others sandwiched in between 

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

In which the Curmudgeons marvel at how quickly, and how well, hip-hop evolved after the Sugar Hill Gang's massive 1979 hit "Rapper's Delight" changed the game completely for everyone. We tell the story of how entrepreneurs, hustlers and visionaries seized the moment to bridge gaps between the streets, the art galleries and the record-label boardrooms. We celebrate a string of amazing singles that grew in sophistication and in pure fun with each volley. And we mark the beginning of the album as a hip-hop artform by discussing two classics, Run-D.M.C.'s self-titled debut and LL Cool J's Radio. 

 

Listen to all of this great music by accessing our Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0H0DTcK3EqlQvVXIF4UK7U?si=900ad05efec74d30

 

Check out these books, which we discuss during the episode:

 

Jeff Chang's "Can't Stop, Won't Stop: A History of the Hip-Hop Generation":

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/cant-stop-wont-stop-a-history-of-the-hip-hop-generation_jeff-chang_dj-kool-herc/257047/?resultid=64846f2c-3a5f-46cd-80fc-c72a7f0af996#edition=4070729&idiq=4560452

 

Jonathan Abrams' "The Come Up: An Oral History of the Rise of Hip-Hop":

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-come-up-an-oral-history-of-the-rise-of-hip-hop_jonathan-abrams/35084204/?resultid=76479560-1d4a-4cb7-9ce1-4ba7ff020fe0#edition=64092613&idiq=55408108

 

Here is handy navigation companion to this episode.

 

(0:52 - 03:50) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(03:55 - 18:36) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of albums by Otoboke Beaver and Slift

 

(19:21 - 44:10) - WE discuss the success of "Rapper's Delight" and its explosive aftermath. We feature Kurits Blow, Fab 5 Freddy, the movie "Wild Style" and other accomplishers and accomplishments.

 

(45:03 - 01:37:00) - We cover a litany of fantastic singles, plus the albums Run-D.M.C. and Radio.

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade & Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

 

 

In which the Curmudgeons count down our selections for the 50 best B-side songs in rock history. The B-side is something of a lost art as digital music dominates and physical media becomes less prevalent. But there was a time when the other side of the 45 or tracks 2 and 3 of the CD maxi-single mattered. There, you could find songs the artist intentionally withheld from an album to give them their own grand stage. In some instances, those songs were among the greatest ever recorded. Beatles, anyone? 

 

Listen to most of these songs on our Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6l4pcDTnHhjpcVKl7S1bmn?si=a16b63d5e9f64f26

 

Here is a handy navigation companion for this episode:

 

(0:52 - 03:06) - Arturo sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(03:11 - 14:18) - The Parallel Universe, featuring revies of recent albums by Sufjan Stevens and Lil Yachty

 

(15:03 - 51:09) - We count the down the greatest B-sides from numbers 50 to 26. There's a Kinks song on here Chris particularly likes.

 

(52:20 - 01:37:14) - We count down the greatest B-sides from number 25 to the top spot at #1. You've probably heard our entire Top Ten more than a few times.   

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

  

 

-

In which The Curmudgeons shake, shake, shake that booty and revisit one of popular music's most unfairly maligned genres. Disco was essentially funky orchestral music--grand, reverb-heavy, maximal, showy, dramatic. Yet it was also energetic and fun as hell. Here, we explore disco's birth as a movement of freedom and uninhibited expression in Black and Hispanic gay nightclubs and how, once a production house in Philadelphia put an official musical sheen on the proceedings, it erupted into the mainstream. We also lament disco's demise among burnout, derision and plain' ol macho racism, sexism and homophobia. 

 

Check out all the songs we lovingly discuss by accessing our special Spotify playlist:

 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6DbgCCxyfmfcITV2nxyZon?si=7786b0860b12450f

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode. 

 

(0:52 - 04:52) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of disco

 

(06:50 - 27:33) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviewes of new albums by Cindy Lee and Jamie xx

 

(28:18 - 01:09:06) - We tell the story of disco's beginnings and we offer the first of three playlists, this one covering the early disco years of 1974 and 1975

 

(01:10:58 - 02:11:45) - We speak of disco's dizzying ascent into the mainstream and offer the second of three playlists covering 1976 to 1978

 

(02:12:44 - 02:53:34) - We cover the downfall of disco and offer the last of our three playlists, which covers 1979 and 1980

 

Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/groups/curmudgeonrock

 

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Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-curmudgeon-rock-report/id1551808911

 

https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

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Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

In which The Curmudgeons revisit an unbelievably fertile year for popular music during the 20th century. The Beatles dropped Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band. James Bown dropped "Cold Sweat." And a staggering number of artists announced their arrival in stunning fashion--Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, the Velvet Underground and others. And, yes, there was a whole lot of flower power emanating from the streets of San Francisco. We pack mounds of '67 goodness into our discussion. 

 

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(00:52 - 03:10) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our 1967 discussion

 

(05:56 - 18:13) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by Joanna Sternberg and Danny Brown

 

(19:11 - 01:16:59) - We discuss Sgt. Peppers, the Rolling Stones, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors and The Velvet Underground

 

(01:18:38 - 02:22:35) - We discuss the sounds of San Francisco, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding and James Brown's "Cold Sweat." We also run through a slew of great Motown and Stax singles, and end with a roll call of other great albums from 1967.

 

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In which The Curmudgeons each reveal their favorite records of the year. Frankly, it was a mediocre past 12 months for popular music, and there aren't a whole lot of records people will remember a decade from now. Yet there were some gems, and during this moment in time, we're excited to share our picks. Call it a public service. 

 

Enjoy a sampler platter of our selections via our Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1N5hCOovaIYE2uobAgvxVy?si=a80ada2729ab42c8

 

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(0:52 - 02:20) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for the episode

 

(02:20 - 10:17) - The Curmudgeons briefly discuss their pick for the worst album of 2023

 

(11:21 - 54:53) - Christopher O'Connor reveals his Top 10 albums of the year, including releases by Boygenius, Killer Mike and Zach Bryan

 

(56:26 - 01:29:02) - Arturo reveals his Top 10 albums of the year, including releases by Laurel Canyon, Mitski and Paul Simon. Yes, that Paul Simon...

 

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In which The Curmudgeons celebrate an underrated classic album that was Chris's favorite for a stretch when he was 18 years old. Yes, the episode title is a direct assertion about Blind Melon's debut record Chris made once upon a time to Arturo. But was it a warranted statement from a tortured 18-year-old kid? Of course not, but don't we all have an album like that from our youth we adore? Regardless, the album actually is truly great and deserves serious, thoughtful treatment here 30 years later. 

 

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(0:52 - 4:55) - Atruo sets the parameters for our discussion of Blind Melon

 

(6:54 - 20:21) - The Parallel Universe, featuring albums by Squirrel Flower and Blondeshell

 

(21:20 - 37:18) - Arturo offers the origin story of Blind Melon. Chris discusses why the album came to mean so much to him all those years ago. 

 

(38:13 - 01:05:27) - The Curmudgeons offer a track-by-track analysis of the album Blind Melon

 

(1:05:28 - 01:16:35) - We tell the rest of the story: The disappointing follow-up 1995 album Soup, the death of singer Shannon Hoon and a;; the what-could-have-beens. 

 

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In which The Curmudgeons plumb the vast archival releases of one of our favorite artists, Neil Young. Chris, in fact, considers himself a Neil Young-ologist, and he takes the lead in touring ten of the most essential releases in what has seemed, since 2009, like a never-ending torrent of live recordings and unreleased studio material dating all the way back to the 1960s. Also, Arturo shows how much he doesn't know about Young's 1974 classic record On the Beach.  

 

Here's a nifty Wikipedia page to help you start exploring the Neil Young Archives yourself: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_Young_Archives

 

Also check out Neil Young's YouTube channel, in which nearly everything he has ever released is available for free: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8gbK8uoqKhlACSeenUPkFQ 

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode.

 

(0:54 - 3:44) - Arturo sets the parameters for the episode

 

(06:38 - 17:26) - The Parallel Universe, featuring new releases from Jamila Woods and Robert Finley

 

(18:25 - 59:44) - A run through five Neil Young Archival releases, including Live at Fillmore East 1970 and Odeon Budokan

 

(01:01:22 - 01:46:26) - A run through five more Neil Young archival releases, including Chrome Dreams and Way Down in the Rust Bucket

 

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In which the Curmudgeons revisit the year when rock 'n' roll exploded into psychedelic glory. The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds, Bob Dylan's Blonde on Blonde and The Beatles' Revolver greatly expanded rock's vocabulary--with a little help from their friends. All three albums are considered timeless greats, and we discuss the myriad reasons why. We also parade through 1966 albums and singles that followed gloriously in those masterworks' wake. Plus, we give love to both Motown and Stax. 

 

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(0:52 - 5:14) - Arturo sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(07:39 - 21:00) - The Parallel Universe, in which discuss new albums by Say She She and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard

 

(21:59 - 56:34) - We analyze Pet Sounds, Blonde on Blonde and Revolver

 

(58:34 - 01:49:45) - We rumble through an assortment of other great 1966 albums and humungous psychedelic singles, plus we discuss the great runs that year of Motown and Stax/Volt. 

 

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In which The Curmudgeons espouse the virtues of Bston's glorious, pioneering arena rock masterpiece. Boston's self-titled debut was the product of the creative mind and engineering talents of a guy who worked by day as an engineer for Polaroid. His use of multiple tracks to layer lead guitar parts and vocals effectively created what became a cliche--to the detriment of this band's legacy. We discuss the Boston story and each song on the album in detail. 

 

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(0:52 - 3:07) - Arturo sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(07:32 - 20:37) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of albums by Mitski and Jaimie Branch

 

(21:36 - 44:10) - Chris runs through the harsh criticism and faint praise for Boston among critics and listeners; Arturo tells Boston's fun, wild origin story

 

(45:20 - 01:23:34) - The Curmudgeons offer a song-by-song analysis of Boston's "Boston" and consider the Boston legacy

 

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In which the Curmudgeons remember and pay fond tribute to one of our favorite bands of all time, which now unfortunately is masquerading as an emblem for Las Vegas tourism. We give close attention to the hope, grace and sense of wonder that made the band's anthemic brand of rock 'n' roll so magnificent. We focus especially on the period between 1983 and 1993, when U2 ruled the world via six studio albums and some legendary tours.

 

Check out a book we reference during the episode, Neil McCormick's "U2 by U2": https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/u2-by-u2_u2_neil-mccormick/287778/?resultid=b31d846a-b396-4558-9fdd-27e446d6859c#edition=5780193&idiq=5601732

 

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(0:00 - 13:30) - Arturo sets the parameters for this episode with some deeply personal history 

 

(16:24 - 27:33) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by Margo Cilker and Wilco. 

 

(28:13 - 58:14) - We cover U2's early history and the albums War, The Unforgettable Fire and the Joshua Tree

 

(59:13 - 01:19:06) - We cover U2's albums Rattle and Hum and Achtung Baby

 

(01:20:51 - 01:41:59) - We cover U2's albums Zooropa and Pop and briefly cover a rather forgettable 25 years since then

 

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In which the Curmudgeons focus their gaze on music that exploded into our cultural consciousness 58 years ago--and is still exploding now. For the second consecutive year, The Beatles and Bob Dylan changed and everything and then some. The Rolling Stones started writing songs and kicking ass. James Brown, The Byrds, The Who and The Beach Boys also startled with innovation. Was 1965 rock's greatest year? Listen and decide for yourself. 

 

Check out Johnny Rogan's two-volume biography of the Byrds, "Requiem for the Timeless," which we give love to during this episode: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/byrds-requiem-for-the-timeless---volume-1_johnny-rogan/13877111/?resultid=2de171fb-b3d1-406f-9a88-41c0eef7f2f0#isbn=0952954087&edition=13770321 

 

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(0:53 - 6:37) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(08:10 - 17:05) - The Parallel Universe, featuring new albums by Pale Blue Eyes and Courtney Barnett

 

(18:04 - 50:02) - We discuss the 1965 genius of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan 

 

(51:24 - 01:36:45) - We serve up more 1965 genius from The Byrds, James Brown, The Who and The Beach Boys

 

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In which the Curmudgeons wake up in the city that never sleeps once more and offer a countdown of what we think is the definitive list of the greatest 40 rock 'n' roll songs about the Big Apple. We touch on the city's love-hate dichotomies and make the argument that these songs paint the city as an experience more than as a residence. And Arturo recounts all the places he bought weed from once upon a time. 

 

Check out a great book we mention in the episode, Anthony DeCurtis's "Lou Reed: A Life." 

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/lou-reed-a-life_anthony-decurtis/13867017/item/24665062/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=pmax_high_vol_frontlist_under_%2410&utm_adgroup=&utm_term=&utm_content=&gclid=CjwKCAjwjOunBhB4EiwA94JWsKZAFctNX93053OjGFpbU6b-xBF1DD1oi3hsKTUJY5i82IsTFrLcIhoC-SwQAvD_BwE#idiq=24665062&edition=13509289

 

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(0:52 - 3:30) - Arturo sets the parameters for the discussion

 

(5:52 - 17:58) - The Parallel Universe: Reviews on new music by Goat and Osees

 

(18:58 - 59:37) - New York songs 40-21

 

(01:01:01 - 01:47:28) - New York songs 20-1

 

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In which The Curmudgeons give the origins of hip-hop a serious treatment and contemplate the magical melding of time, place and resources that makes its early history so compelling. The pioneers of the genre stared down the destruction and impoverishment of the South Bronx with the swagger of kings, organically spinning celebration, and positivity, out of their circumstances. They also channeled the competitiveness of the streets into hip-hop's four "elements" -- DJing, MCing, breakdancing and graffiti -- ensuring there was as much sport as there was funk. Hip-hop became the ultimate DIY creation as a result. 

 

Check out a book we reference during this episode, Jeff Chang's wonderful "Can;t Stop Won't Stop: A History of the Hip-Hop Generation":

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/cant-stop-wont-stop-a-history-of-the-hip-hop-generation_jeff-chang_dj-kool-herc/257047/?resultid=d57d3cbc-a003-438a-8356-465f82400ec6#isbn=B00A2LU264

 

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(0:54 - 6:20) - Arturo sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(7:40 - 20:18) - The Parallel Universe, in which we review new music from PJ Harvey and Yard Act

 

(21:17 - 1:04:59) - Chris, with Arturo's considerable input, discusses four aspects of the hip-hop origin story that make it so unique; plus, we discuss hip-hop "elements" in detail

 

(1:06:24 - 1:45:48) - We discuss the influence four hip-hop pioneers -- Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Grandmaster Flash, Grandmaster Caz -- and marvel at the story of "Rapper's Delight," hip-hop's first hit single. 

 

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In which The Curmudgeons know you wanted the best so we're giving it to you. Long live KISS, whose live act and meaty, ferocious riffs are both legendary. Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss understood that rock 'n' roll, at the end of the day, is all about the show. And KISS, nearly 50 years ago, put on the greatest show on the rock 'n' roll earth--leather, makeup, fire, blood, explosions, lightning and seven-inch platform boots. It was a show that the world was so fond of it discovered it still longed for it 20 years later. Thus, KISS became an everlasting nostalgia act. We pay homage to the show on this episode--and to the nine albums the band released in the 1970s, which include two of the grandest live albums ever. 

 

Check out all of KISS's kick-ass '70s glam metal by accessing our special Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1BXk5u5qUOVjvuDINjJcLR?si=1cadf882cffc4a76

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode.

 

(00:52 - 05:29) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of KISS

 

(08:25 - 20:08) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums from Kokoko! and MJ Lenderman

 

(20:53 - 01:08:25) - We analyze KISS's 1970s album output, including the self-titled debut, Alive!, Alive! II and Destroyer

 

(01:28:19 - 01:27:05) - We tell the rest of KISS's story: their downturn from glory, their decision to take off the makeup and embrace MTV excess and the inevitable return to '70s stage glory

 

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https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5fea16f1-664e-40b7-932e-5fb748cffb1d/the-curmudgeon-rock-report?refMarker=null 

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

In which The Curmudgeons launch their latest "golden age" series, this time on the one that arguably matters the most: the second one. Between 1964 and 1972, everything changed, and then changed again. The whole cultural powderkeg exploded into something thrilling, something indescribable and something that ensured podcasts like ours will always exist. It's when rock 'n' roll became "rock music" to both the people and the powerful. And it all started in 1964, when Beatlemania and Bob Dylan's slow turn away from folk propelled the magic. 

 

We encourage you to purchase two terrific books we talk about during this episode.

"Dream Boogie: The Triumph of Sam Cooke," by Peter Guralnick:

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/dream-boogie-the-triumph-of-sam-cooke_peter-guralnick/304661/#edition=3594934&idiq=1718591

 

"Dreaming the Beatles," by Rob Sheffield: 

https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/unti-rob-sheffield_robert-j-sheffield/11427174/?resultid=7b7d8745-86dc-4206-b972-e063b724f817#edition=19781918&idiq=28045161 

 

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(0:54 - 3:42) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our 1964 exploration

 

(6:54 - 18:10) - The Parallel Universe, in which we review albums by Goat and Killer Mike

 

(19:09 - 57:38) - We discuss Beatlemania, the British Invasion and the coming of Bob Dylan the rock star

 

(58:57 - 01:38:37) - We discuss Motown's dominance, the triumph and tragedy of Sam Cooke and the splendor and the innovation of the Beach Boys

 

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In which The Curmudgeons marvel at the pure rock 'n' roll glory of what we think is an underappreciated band, The Black Crowes. The band blended the influence of the Rolling Stones, Faces, Humble Pie and dollops of Southern Rock into a blast of audio dynamite that exploded in...1990, when MC Hammer, Vanilla Ice and Paula Abdul otherwise ruled the universe. It was a neat feat, one we explore intensively. The Black Crowes were a testament to a truism that drives our podcast: that awesome rock 'n' roll is unassailable. 

 

Check out a book we reference during the episode, drummer Steve Gorman's memoirs, "Hard to Handle": https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/hard-to-handle-the-inside-story-of-the-black-crowes_steve-gorman/20161323/#edition=27570170&idiq=38535580

 

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(0:54 - 5:34) - Arturo sets the episode's parameters

 

(7:18 - 17:41) - The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by Lorelle Meets The Obsolete and King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard

 

(18:40 - 35:55) - We discuss the Black Crowes' origin story and their masterful first two albums, Shake Your Money Maker and The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion

 

(38:10 - 1:16:25) - We cover the rest of the Black Crowes' story, from 1994's Amorica to 2009's Before the Frost...Until the Freeze and beyond

 

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In which the Curmudgeons follow James Brown into his disco-era slump and his triumphant return to the top of the charts with the shining monument that was "Living in America." We also cover Brown's troubling descent into drug addiction and criminal behavior, which in 1988 culminated with a 2-year-plus prison sentence. There also are sordid allegations of violence against women we must address. 

 

Read a remarkable investigative report on Brown, his third wife Adrienne Rodriguez, and one of his accusers we discuss in the episode here: https://www.cnn.com/interactive/2019/02/us/james-brown-death-questions/index.html  

 

Buy R.J. Smith's "The One: The Life and Music of James Brown" here: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-one-the-life-and-music-of-james-brown_rj-smith/385831/#edition=6518845&idiq=1367703

 

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(0:54 - 3:15) - Arturo sets the parameters for the episode

 

(05:09 - 16:50) - The Parallel Universe: Reviews of new music from Flo Milli and Tinariwen

 

(17:49 - 36:10) - We discuss James Brown's disco daze and his appearances in "The Blues Brothers" and "Rocky IV" that triggered a late-stage comeback 

 

(37:42 - 01:04:00) - We discuss Brown's criminal entanglements and allegations of physical and sexual abuse of women in detail

 

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In which The Curmudgeons get on up, get into it and get very, very involved in talking about one of the most extraordinary stretches of music ever produced by anyone. When James Brown went all in on what he called "The One," emphasizing the first beat in a four-beat measure, he sparked a musical revolution that not only invented funk but also defined the early development of hip-hop. "The One" was a force and a statement. It was also a political movement of sorts, something we discuss during the episode.

 

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(0:54 - 4:17): Chris sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(5:36 - 18:09): The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by Faizal Mostrixx and WITCH

 

(19:08 - 58:29): A rumble through a thrilling, ever-intensifying string of hits: "It's a Man's, Man's, Man's World," "Cold Sweat," "I Got The Feelin'," "Say It Loud: I'm Black and I'm Proud," Give It Up or Turnit Loose," "Mother Popcorn (You've Got to Have a MOther For Me)," "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) Sex Machine," "Super Bad," and "Get Up, Get Into It, Get Involved. We also discuss the 1970 live album Sex Machine. 

 

(1:00:23 - 1:23:53): More rumbling through James Borwn's funk hits, which start to slow in tempo in 1970 but never lose intensity. We discuss "Soul Power," "Hot Pants," "Make It Funky," "Talkin' Loud and Sayin' Nothing," "Get on the Good Foot," "I Got Ants in My Pants (And I Want to Dance)," "The Payback," and "My Thang." 

 

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In which the Curmudgeons get on the good foot and launch a three-part look at the career of a man who may just be rock 'n' roll's truest genius. From jail time in his rough-and-tumble youth to showtime at the Apollo and the chart heights of "I Got You (I Feel Good), we trace the ascension of James Brown as he croons and shuffles his way to superstardom. By 1965, he was ready to unleash a musical gift that changed everything. Let us guide you as Mr. Dynamite finds his inner funk.

 

Check out two great books that helped inform this episode:

 

R.J. Smith's "The One" - bit.ly/3CjdBLl

 

Douglas Wolk's "Live at the Apollo" - bit.ly/43tHNiN

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode:

(0:54 - 5:40) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for this episode

(07:39 - 18:40) - The Parallel Universe - Reviews of new albums by Lael Neale and Durand Jones

(19:39 - 33:46) - James Brown's origin story, which has to be heard to be believed

(35:05 - 01:06:45) - We analyze a slew of early James Brown triumphs -- "Please Please, Please," "Try Me," "(Do The) Mashed Potatoes," "Think," "Baby, You're Right," "Night Train," "Out of Sight," "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag," "(I Got You) I Feel Good," and the amazing 192 live album Live at the Apollo

  

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In which The Curmudgeons are joined by renowned author and R.E.M. biographer Tony Fletcher to fondly analyze the band's musical and cultural legacy, 40 years after the album Murmur changed rock expectations forever. We also discuss why one of the best bands in American history doesn't seem to get its due, despite its obvious influence on the sound and shape of today's rock. Tony supplies learned input and dry humor. He also infuses some surprising hope that younger listeners will indeed continue to discover and explore R.E.M. 

 

Check out what Tony Fletcher has cooking in his laboratory

tonyfletcher.net 

 

Also check out the latest episode of his podcast, One Step Beyond

shows.acast.com/onestepbeyond

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode:

(0:54 - 5:51): Arturo sets the parameters for our episode

 

(5:54 - 10:51): Remembering Andy Roarke, and The Parallel Universe, in which we review new albums by Acid Arab and Wednesday. 

 

(19:49 - 43:00): Author Tony Fletcher joins us to discuss five aspects of R.E.M's legacy that merit lively discussion

 

(44:25 - 01:29:42): We continue our back and forth with Tony, contemplating why R.E.M. isn't nearly as celebrated as it should be among younger folks. Arturo also places R.E.M. at #6 on his list of the 10 Greatest American Bands. Stay tuned for the list and for Tony's eloquent response.   

 

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In which the Curmudgeons are joined by South Korea-based radio DJ Daniel Springer to debunk myths and celebrate the music of Australia's coolest, sexiest--and best--band of the 1980s. INXS was far more than a band with one ubiquitous hit and a gorgeous, tortured lead singer. They took elements of funk, soul and jazz and melded them with New Wave sensibilities to create something truly special: rock n roll steeped in electronics that bubbled with an organic heart.

 

Daniel knows his stuff. He's an honorary Curmudgeon. Listen to his show The Drop on Gawngju, South Korea, station GFN: https://feeds.transistor.fm/the-drop-with-danno

 

Here's a handy navigation companion for this episode:

 

(0:54 - 3:05) -- Artruro sets the parameters for the episode

 

(5:06 - 16:09) -- The Parallel Universe. We review new albums by Laurel Canyon and Mudhoney. 

 

(16:47 - 37:53) -- Daniel Springer and The Curmudgeons dispel five myths about INXS 

 

(39:32 -- 59:11) -- Arturo delivers the origin story of INX and we rediscover the albums INXS, Underneath the Colours, Shabooh Shoobah and The Swing

 

(01:00:36 - 01:54:45) - We discuss the albums Listen Like Thieves, Kick, X, Welcome to Wherever You Are, Full Moon, Dirty Hearts and Elegantly Wasted. We also lament the tragic personal downfall of Michael Hutchence and how social media has had a not-so-great influence on the preservation of taste.   

 

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In which the Curmudgeons pulverize one of this century's most revered rock bands. And also perhaps its stupidest.

 

Bandleader Gerard Way claims in interviews he formed My Chemical Romance after witnessing the Twin Towers fall from his native Northern New Jersey on 9/11. That's bad enough. Way and his mates then unleashed a torrent of disgustingly celebratory stories of vampires who enjoy suicide and cancer patients nearing their afterlives. All while screeching, squelching and stealing from Queen, KISS and...Coldplay?!

 

Yet Rolling Stone lists their 2006 album The Black Parade as the 361st best of all time. So hey, what do we know? 

 

Here's a handy navigation reference for this episode:

 

(0:54 - 4:07): Arturo sets the episode's parameters.

 

(5:31 - 15:23): The Parallel Universe--reviews of The Men's New York City and JPEG Mafia & Danny Brown's "Scaring the Hoes, Vol. 1."

 

(16:22 - 33:57): My Chemical Romance's origin story and deep, dark, smelly dumps on the albums I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love (2002) and Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge (2004). 

 

(35:36 - 01:03:00): Deep, dark, smelly dumps on the albums The Black Parade (2006) and Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys. Plus, a discussion of how social media has seemingly young people from appreciating the historical lineage of bands like this one. 

 

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In which The Curmudgeons mix bewilderment with disdain in discussing the stench-filled star run of The Killers, the Vegas band by way of Utah who have aped a band or two -- or 50 -- you may know and love for nearly 20 years.

 

We hold our noses and analyze a seven-album catalog that finds so-earnest-it-hurts bandleader Brandon Flowers travel a road from revering Duran Duran to capturing the spirit (he thinks anyway) of Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska. We're here to shield you from the pain, man. 

 

Credit is due to Steven Hyden of Uproxx, whose August 12, 2021, interview with Brandon Flowers is referred to heavily for our amusement here. Great piece but also unintentionally hilarious. 

 

Here's a handy navigation reference for this episode:

 

(0:54 - 2:10) -- Our parameter setter

 

(4:07 - 17:52): The Parallel Universe -- reviews of new albums by Sleaford Mods and Death Valley Girls

 

(19:31 - 40:07): A brief Killers origin story plus stinky runs through the KIllers' Hot Fuss, Sam's Town and Day & Age)

 

(41:13 - 1:07:10): More stinky Killers album run-throughs: Battle Born, Wonderful Wonderful, Imploding the Mirage and Pressure Machine

 

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In which The Curmudgeons embark on a tour of 1970s Germany to discuss and analyze the influence of the artists and bands who invented and innovated the rock genre derisively coined Krautrock by snotty British people. The German musicians and label heads themselves called it "cosmic music." Theirs was a movement designed to distinguish a not-so-admirable Old Germany from a bolder, more hopeful, outer space-adoring New Germany. And it certainly did make rock a whole lot more cosmic in the generations that followed. 

 

Here is a handy navigation reference for this episode and the bands we cover:

 

(0:52 - 4:30): Setting the parameters for our excursion

 

(6:50 - 15:23): The Parallel Universe (new albums by The Brian Jonestown Massacre and Nilufer Yanya)

 

(16:21 to 01:04:01): A brief origin story plus discussions of Amon Duul II, Tangerine Dream, Can, Popol Vuh, Cluster and Kraftwerk

 

(01:05:29 to The End): Disccusions of Asha Ra Tempel, Agitation Free, Neu!, Faust and Harmonia

 

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In which The Curmudgeons discuss the awesome power and influence of one of the innovators of the Southern thing, as The Drive-By Truckers refer to it. Lynyrd Skynyrd remains one of the most underrated rock bands of all time, a condition that is partially its own fault, given how it has tied itself in its most recent form to the worst of old Southern stereotypes. But there's no denying that the band's patented three-guitar assault, soulful songwriting and penchant for being the thinking man's rednecks produced a sterling catalog of work during the 1970s. We revisit the five albums of the Ronnie Van Zant era during this episode and place the band in a well-deserved, warm, positive spotlight. 

 

Enjoy the music of Lynyrd Skynyrd bu accessing our special Spotify playlist:

 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3fLgdipOAMd34LCBpAcl3H?si=62407df7ae1c4435

 

Here is a handy navigation companion to this episode.

 

(00:52 - 03:48) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(03:52 - 18:43) The Parallel Universe, featuring reviews of awesome new albums by Osees and Jack White

 

(19:28 - 51:09) - We tell the origin story of Lynyrd Skynyrd and discuss the albums Pronounced 'Leh-'Nerd 'Skin-'Nerd, Second Helping, Nuthin' Fancy, Gimme Back My Bullets and Street Surviviors

 

(52:31 - 01:20:09) - We tell the rest of the Lynyrd Skynyrd story, from the tragic plane crash that killed three members to its reformation with Ronnie's little brother Johnny Van Zant and then its eventual descent into self-parody. 

 

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Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

  

In which the Curmudgeons share our definitive countdown of sublime and powerful covers of rock songs by an array of artists. Some cover artists we know you've heard of before (Led Zeppelin, The Who). Others? Maybe not (Charles Bradley, Urge Overkill). Doesn't matter. After you hear our take on these songs, you'll never need to consume another list like this one ever again. 

 

Find specific sections or our episode here:

 

Our Parameter Setter (0:52 - 6:00)

 

The Parallel Universe - Automatic, The Tubs (6:40 - 14:55)

 

Songs # 30 - 21 (16:34 - 45:39)

 

Songs #20 -11 (47:28 - 1:12:02)

 

Songs #10 - 1 (01:13:00 - 1:53:10)   

 

Some of the original artists who gifted these songs to the world include:

 

Son House

 

Ed's Redeeming Qualities 

 

The Arrows

 

The Clique

 

The Vaselines

 

The Crickets

 

Randy Weeks

 

Bonnie Dobson

 

And three artists you may have heard a time or two: Black Sabbath, The Beatles and Bob Dylan

 

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Recorded using (the newly, greatly enhanced) Zencastr! zencastr.com 

 

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In which the Curmudgeons muse about the greatness of the rawest, realest Beatle here in the age of cancel culture. Lennon's very public journey from depressive edginess to middle-aged wisdom was inspiring and remains fascinating to study.

First, we analyze how the tension between Lennon and Paul McCartney defined The Beatles' legacy. Then we trace the maturation Lennon evidenced on tape throughout his 30s--how what began as "the dream is over" ended as "I really love to watch them roll."

Songs discussed during this episode include:

Goat, "Goathead"

Horse Lords, "May Brigade"

From The Beatles:

"In My Life"

"She Said She Said"

"The Ballad of John and Yoko" 

"I Want You (She's So Heavy)"

"Hey Jude"

"Revolution"

From John Lennon:

"God"

"Mother"

"Imagine"

"Oh Yoko"

"Gimme Sime Truth"

"Woman is the N***** of the World"

"The Luck of the Irish"

"Mind Games"

"Out the Blue"

"Whatever Gets You Thru the Night"

"#9 Dream"

"Stand By Me" 

"Just Like Starting Over"

"Watching the Wheels"

 

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In which Arturo Andrade rips Dave Grohl's renaissance project turned to unfortunately real band to shreds and does so vigorously...and with plenty of Internet-bred validation from others who hate this band. Chris O'Connor, who counts Grohl as a personal hero, only lightly pushes back. Alas, a turd is a turd. Let us rumble through this (mostly) steaming heap stench by stench.

Usually, we endorse the songs we talk about here. That's not the case on this episode, but since this intro is supposed to carry some SEO value, here's some of the piss we cover:

"Hero"

"Learn To Fly" 

"Stacked Actors"

"All My Life"

"Times Like These"

"Best Of You"

"The Pretender"

"Rope"

"Walk" 

... and an increasingly rotten bunch of stuff from 2014 on...

 

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In which one of Yours Truly Curmudgeons, Arturo Andrade, flies solo and empties out his vault to share the greatest "extended play" rock albums ever released. It's a list that has Chris O'Connor's endorsement and includes a few treasured classics as well as some obscurities and very bashed-out primitive recordings from beloved artists.

Artists discussed include:

R.E.M.

Melvins

Butthole Surfers

The Strokes

Sebadoh

Minor Threat

Alice in Chains 

... and the EP we select as #1. Discover the mastery starting at 50:40

 

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In which the Curmudgeons each count down their picks for the 20 best albums of 2002. There is plenty of overlap, but there is also plenty of disagreement. Is Beyonce awesome or lazy? Is Soul Glo a piece of gold or a piece of garbage? Either way, these are all the titles to snack on as you catch up on all this music we loved--or at least admired. 

Chris's list begins at 11:31. 

Arturo's list begins at 1:14:40.

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In which the Curmudgeons examine the career and the great music of rock 'n' roll's best "brother and sister" act. Okay, so they were really ex-husband and ex-wife, but hammy mythos was small part of what made The White Stripes so compelling. That, and their incredible ability to deconstruct and celebrate the blues, country and folk with explosive guitar and simple drums while also writing and recording some of the most innovative songs of their era. We discuss the music and their six albums in detail.   Songs discussed during this episode include:   Personal Trainer, "Big Love Blanket"   Jockstrap, "Greatest Hits"   A whole lotta White Stripes:   "Jimmy the Exploder"   "I Fought Pirahnas"   "The Big Three Killed My Baby"   "You're Pretty Good Looking (For a Girl)"   "Hello Operator"   "Apple Blossom"   "I'm Bound to Pack it Up"   "Dead Leaves On the Dirty Ground"   "Hotel Yorba"   "Fell In Love With a Girl"   "The Union Forever"   "Seven Nation Army"   "The Hardest Button to BUtton"   "Ball and Biscuit"   "I Want To Be the Boy Who Warms Your Mother's Heart"   "Blue Orchid"   "My Doorbell"   "Passive Manipulation"   "Icky Thump"   "Catch Hell Blues"   "Effect and Cause"   Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/curmudgeonrock

 

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In which the Curmudgeons continue their revisitation of rock 'n' roll's magical yet tense rise as the music and attitude of American youth. Last episode, we discussed the parochial influences that shaped the earliest rock and the Black pioneers who introduced it to the world. Now, we discuss what happened when Whites got a load of it. The teens loved it. Corporate America? Not so much.    Songs discussed during this episode include:   Goat, "Chukua Pesa"   Soul Glo, "We Wants Revenge"   Bill Haley & His Comets, "Rock Around the Clock"   Elvis Presley, "That's Alright"   Elvis Presley, "Don't Be Cruel"   Jerry Lee Lewis, "Great Balls of Fire"   Jerry Lee Lewis, "Whole Lot of Shaking Goin' On"   Buddy Holly, " Peggy Sue,"   Buddy Holly, "Oh Boy!"   Everly Brothers, "All I Have To Do Is Dream"   Everly Brothers, "Cathy's Clown"   Pat Boone, "Tutti Frutti"   Chubby Checker, "The Twist"   Connie Stevens, "Where The Boys Are" Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/curmudgeonrock

 

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In which The Curmudgeons celebrate this thing here called rock 'n' roll by going all the way back to the beginning. Actually, we go back to before the beginning and discuss the cultural movements and formative influences that gave our beloved musical form its shapes and colors. We also honor the four men we believe were the foremost pioneers of the genre: Fats Domino, Bo Diddley, Little Richard and Chuck Berry. 

  Songs discussed during this episode include:   Belief, "WOT"   Anxious, "You When You're Gone"   Big Joe Turner, "Roll 'Em Pete"   The Orioles, "It's Too Soon to Know"   Jackie Brentson & His Delta Cats, "Rocket 88"    Billy Ward & The Dominoes, "Sixty Minute Man"    Fats Domino, "The Fat Man"    Fats Domino, "I'm Walkin"   Bo Diddley, "Bo Diddley"   Bo Diddley, "I'm a Man"   Bo Diddley, "Who Do You Love"   Little Richard, "Tutti Frutti"   Little Richard, "Lucille"   Little Richard, "Long Tall Sally"   Chuck Berry, "Maybelline"   Chuck Berry, "Brown Eyed Handsome Man"   Chuck Berry, "Sweet Little Sixteen"    Join our Curmudgeonly Community today! facebook.com/curmudgeonrock

 

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In which the Curmudgeons counter one of the laziest conventional wisdoms in all of rock 'n' roll: that Muse is a self-serious, ridiculous ripoff of Radiohead that appeals to dumb people with bad taste. No, actually they're one of the most fearless and inventive bands of the 21st century that gets a central rock tenet: ridiculousness is your friend. This band rocks without apology. We make the case...

 

Songs discussed during this episode include:

Sudan Archives, "OMG Britt"

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, "Ice V"

And lots and lots of Muse:

"Sunburn"

"Unintended"

"Micro Cuts"

"Citizen Erased"

"Time is Running Out"

"Hysteria"

"Stockholm Syndrome"

"Supermassive Black Hole"

"Map of the Problematique"

"Uprising"

"United States of Eurasia(+Collateral Damage)"

"Madness"

"Dead Inside"

"Psycho"

"Reapers"

"The Dark Side"

"Propaganda"

"Will of the People"

"Kill Or Be Killed"

 

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In which the Curmudgeons offer a study of albums from artists whose music and grand ambitions influenced the U.K.'s beloved band Muse. We'll be defending Muse during our next episode. The band's status as a mainstream stadium filler has made them a target for lazy disrespect. We're pushing back, and we're starting now with a journey through the past. 

 

Albums discussed during this episode include:

Queen, A Night at the Opera (1975)

Rush, A Farewell to Kings (1977)

U2, Zooropa (1993)

Radiohead, The Bends (1995)

Coldplay, A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002)

 

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In which the Curmudgeons end their epic series of odes to the music of a nine-year period that transformed everything--and then some--in popular music. By 1972, the hangover from the revolutionary vibes of the 1960s had subsided, and that era's outgrowth of freedom and experimentation truly started to blossom. The Rolling Stones filtered American roots music through a dirty, sweaty prism to create a true rock masterpiece. David Bowie perfected glam rock and intergalactic theater to create a masterpiece of his own. And Stevie Wonder, Al Green and Curtis Mayfield set Black music on a wilder, more lush course. We explore all of that and much more during this episode.

 

Enjoy all the great music of 1972 on our special Spotify playlist:

 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/22v1Gg8aZWlUaGrBHqaZ0B?si=446b89de0580497d

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode. 

 

(00:52 - 05:02) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion of 1972

 

(05:16 - 17:32) - The Paralell Universe, featuring reviews of new albums by Kelly Stoltz and King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard

 

(18:17 - 55:50) - We celebrate the 1972 output of The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Curtis Mayfield and Stevie Wonder

 

(57:22 - 01:20:30) - We revisit the 1972 music of Al Green, The Eagles, Steely Dan, Roxy Music, Neu! and Big Star

 

(01:21:29 - 1:45:51) - We pay loving tribute to albums from Can, Neil Young, Black Sabbath and others who help define 1972

 

Listen to all of this great music by accessing our special Spotify playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/159nl5UDgswraoThqqv07A?si=7b57198f803e4944

 

Here's a handy navigation companion to this episode. 

 

(00:52 - 04:56) - Arturo Andrade sets the parameters for our discussion

 

(05:49 - 16:23) - The Parallel Universe, feauturing reviews of new albums from King Hannah and Wand

 

(17:08 - 45:11) - We discuss 13 great songs from blaxploitation films from artists including Earth, Wind & Fire, James Brown, Solomon Burke, Bobby Womack and Donny Hathaway

 

(46:29 - 1:09:08) - We discuss 13 additional songs from blaxploitation films from artists including Gladys Knight & the Pips, Don Julian, Willie Hutch, Isaac Hayes and The Staple Singers

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https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7bHKIROH98o0vJbXLamB?si=5ffbdc04d6d44ecb

 

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80M

 

Co-written and co-produced by Arturo Andrade and Christopher O'Connor - The Curmudgeons

 

 

In which the Curmudgeons offer a public service and guide you through the essentials within Osees' vast catalog of albums. This is a band that changes its name every couple of years, so maybe it's not a surprise they've released more than 20 studio albums since 2007, plus singles collections and the like. That's a lot...but, yo, we got you covered. 

 

Albums discussed during this episode include:

Floating Coffin (2013)

Mutilator Defeated at Last (2015)

A Weird Exits (2016)

Smote Reverser (2018)

Face Stabber (2019)

Protean Threat (2020)

A Foul Form (2022)

 

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In which Curmudgeons celebrate a cult band from Vermont whose cult became massive by the end of the 1990s. The members of Phish were not noodling descendants of The Grateful Dead. They were virtuoso musicians whose songcraft and studio output--and even their live performances!--are sorely underrated. Well, not anymore. 

 

Songs discussed during this episode include:

The Chats, "I've Been Drunk in Every Pub in Brisbane"

Built to Spill, "Spiderweb"

And from Phish:

"David Bowie"

"You Enjoy Myself"

"Wilson"

"Reba"

"Split Open and Melt"

"Chalkdust Torture"

"Stash"

"Fast Enough For You"

"Rift"

"The Great Divide"

"Down With Disease"

"Axilla (Pt. II)"

"Julius"

"Billy Breathes"

"Free"

"Prince Caspian" 

"Guyute"

"Bird of a Feather"

"Farmhouse"

"First Tube"

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In which the Curmudgeons explore the six studio albums the Dead recorded and released between 1973 and 1980. By the time they dropped Wake of the Flood in 1973, the exploding cult following of their live output meant they didn't really need to make good albums to remain successful. And yet they did.

 

Songs discussed during this episode include:

Phosphorescent, "My Beautiful Boy"

RZA, "We Push"

A whole lot of Grateful Dead:

"Eyes of the World"

"Stella Blue"

"U.S. Blues"

"Scarlet Begonias" 

"Unbroken Chain"

"Help on the Way/Slipknot!"

"Franklin's Tower"

"Sage & Spirit"

"Estimated Prophet"

"Terrapin Pt. 1"

"Shakedown Street"

"All New Minglewood Blues"

"Fire on the Mountain"

"Alabama Getaway" 

"Althea" 

 

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In which the Curmudgeons begin a two-episode analysis of how The Grateful Dead transitioned from legends of the late '60s psychedelic underground to makers of extraordinary and timeless albums by the beginning of the 1970s. We ride that train as the band journeys through its first five studio albums.       Songs discussed during this episode include:   Money, "Suicide Song"   Purple Mountains, "She's Making Friends, I'm Turning Stranger"   And from the Grateful Dead:   "Cold Rain and Snow"   "Morning Dew"   "Voila Lee Blues"   "That's It for the Other One (Parts I-IV)"   "Alligator"   "St. Stephen"   "China Cat Sunflower"   "Cosmic Charlie"   "Uncle John's Band"   "Casey Jones"   "Dire Wolf"   "Truckin'"   "Attics of My Life"   "Box of Rain"

 

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Now hosted on Podbean! curmudgeonrock.podbean.com

 

Subscribe to our show on these platforms:

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https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80MW