Spring 2025 Season Finale 

Host Ted Asregadoo closes out the spring season by shining a spotlight on the most essential—yet often overlooked—members of any great band: the drummers. Reuniting with John Young (John was a co-host during the first year of Planet LP’s existence in 2021), this episode serves as both a musical celebration and a reminder that creativity and joy persist even in the darkest of times.

Or, to quote Sting, "When the world is running down, you make the best of what's still around."

Rhythm Masters Featured:

🥁 Ringo Starr - John Young champions the Beatles' timekeeper with infectious enthusiasm on “I Feel Fine.” This 1965 classic demonstrates why Ringo Starr is such an inventive drummer, who fashions an R&B rhythm with roots in Ray Charles’ “What’d I Say.”

🥁 John Bonham - A masterclass breakdown of Led Zeppelin's "Fool in the Rain," exploring how Bonham seamlessly weaves samba rhythms with Bernard Purdie's signature shuffle. Zep gets rightly criticized for ripping off black musicians, and while Bonham does use the Purdie shuffle on this song, he does so in a way that serves the song well. 

🥁 Clyde Stubblefield - The funky foundation of James Brown's "Cold Sweat" and his lasting impact on groove-based music. What makes this rhythm so great is that it’s not only funky as hell, but Stubblefield also pulls the time in the song ever so slightly to make it a unique funk rhythm.

🥁 Gina Schock - The Go-Go's powerhouse, whose driving beat combines punk energy with pop sensibility, creating the infectious rhythm that made "Head Over Heels" such a fantastic tune and The Go-Go’s a band that has consistently rocked it for over four decades. 

🥁 Neil Peart - Rush's mathematical drummer dissected through the complex patterns of "Subdivisions." Peart was a very much a compositional drummer, whose approach to the instrument was more from the head than the heart. His drum composition on “Subdivisions” is some of the most complex and exciting drumming in Rush’s catalogue. Although most people would point to “Tom Sawyer” as the pinnacle of Peart’s drumming, “Subdivisions” is right up there in terms of compositional ingenuity, rhythmic variety, and just effing awesome chops. 

🥁 Karen Carpenter - Celebrating her overlooked drumming prowess before she became known primarily as a vocalist for The Carpenters. Karen’s mastery of the drums can be seen in this 1976 performance. While the music is kind of cheesy, her abilities behind the kit are not. John Bonham infamously slagged Karen when she won a Playboy magazine survey of best rock drummers (with Bonham as number two), saying that she wouldn’t last two minutes drumming on a Zep song. One look at her soloing on YouTube will disabuse you of that notion.

A concluding note:  this episode isn't about ranking the "best" drummers—it's about appreciating the artists who make our ears perk up and remind us why the beat is essential to a lot of the music we love. 

Episode 111 proves that sometimes the best medicine for troubled times is simply great music and the people who create it.

This episode of the Planet LP Podcast, hosted by Ted Asregadoo, delves into the unexpected musical blind spots of even the most accomplished music journalists. Ted is joined by prolific music writer and co-host of The Record Player podcast, Jeff Giles (Popdose, Ultimate Classic Rock, Diffuser FM, Jefitoblog, and Harmonic.fm).

The discussion centers on highly-regarded albums that, despite their critical acclaim or widespread popularity, have somehow been overlooked by these experienced listeners. Prepare for candid revelations as Ted and Jeff explore records that often elicit the incredulous response: "Wait, you've NEVER listened to that?!"

The episode features a diverse selection of genres and eras. It begins with Gang of Four's Entertainment! (1979), examining its groundbreaking sound and lasting influence on popular music. Next, the focus shifts to Jefferson Airplane's Surrealistic Pillow (1967). While acknowledging its iconic status and memorable tracks, the host shares a surprisingly critical perspective on this San Francisco classic.

Finally, the conversation turns to Donna Summer's Bad Girls (1979). The episode explores its commercial success, Grammy recognition, and even an unexpected link to New Order, while posing the question of how such a significant album could have been a "miss" for a dedicated music aficionado.

Tune in for an engaging and often surprising exploration of influential albums that, for some, remained undiscovered territory.

Concert Confessions: Planet LP Dives Deep on Live Shows!

Inspired by their recent reviews of Echo & The Bunnymen and The Chameleons, Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo joins forces with Popdose writer Keith Creighton. Together, they unpack their wildest concert experiences – the good, the bad, and the truly bizarre.

Get ready for insider stories, legendary live recordings, and discussions about unforgettable performances by Prince, KISS, The Frames, Talking Heads, Mike Watt, Rush, and Fleetwood Mac.

This milestone episode reunites OG Planet LP co-host John Young with Ted Asregadoo! Forget reminiscing - the guys are diving DEEP into making it in the music business.

Part 1: From Wickerfish to Bon Jovi - Was "all or nothing" the only way?

John, co-founder of '80s indie band Wickerfish, clashes with Jon Bon Jovi's "no Plan B" approach (courtesy of Hulu's "Thank You, Goodnight: The Jon Bon Jovi Story"). Compelling stories and hard-earned wisdom collide as John reveals the realities of the LA indie scene when he and his bandmates, Jack and Paul Pitsker, were rockin' in clubs, recording their debut album, and trying to get signed to a major label.

Part 2: The Music Industry - Metamorphosis or Mayhem?

Social media's impact on promotion. With new paths to success - are the old ways still relevant? John and Ted dissect the ever-evolving music landscape, offering insights for aspiring artists as they try to stand out in the crowded field of performers.

Songs featured:

Shadows on the Sun, Wickerfish

"Livin' On a Prayer" (Demo), Bon Jovi

"That's Ted," John Young

On this episode, Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton revisit two albums that left a lasting impression on them 40 years after their initial releases.

Ted dives into the Pretenders' "Learning to Crawl," a pivotal album that marked the band's resilience after the tragic deaths of two original members from drug overdoses.

Keith focuses on The Go-Go's third album, "Talk Show." Released during a period of internal strife, this record has surprisingly stood the test of time, showcasing a collection of strong songs that some argue is The Go-Go's finest work.

Taylor Swift knows how to launch an album. Her marketing is a machine, and her fans eagerly devour every detail. Her 11th studio album, "The Tortured Poets Department," arrived in a surprising double dose! First came 15 songs at midnight on April 19th, followed by another 15 just two hours later. This 31-song release marks a return to familiar territory for Swift: exploring the complexities of relationships, especially when they fall apart.

On this episode of Planet LP, host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton dive into The Tortured Poets Department just a day after its release. As you might expect when discussing Taylor Swift, the conversation goes beyond the music. They delve into her personal life (a constant theme in her songs), Keith's Taylor Swift music collection obsession, and they offer some hot takes on this massive album release that was unleashed with firehose-like force.

For decades, the sale of single songs was dominant in the music industry. Singles are still popular, and in the age of streaming, single plays make up the bulk of how most people listen to music. Not a lot has changed since radio was dominant in terms of single songs that become hits. However, with the firehose of music at our fingertips, finding standout single songs that aren't from the pantheon of superstars who dominate streaming and album sales can be a challenge.

What are some of your favorite singles? Sometimes, a single song remains happily lodged in your head and its lyrics, its melodies, and its whole vibe take up a large part of your mental real estate. So much so, that you may find yourself whistling the tune, or bursting out into song from time to time.

In this episode, Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo talks to and features music from two artists whose singles have really made an impression.

First up is Allie Sandt, the former member of Seeing Double whose track "Bygones" made waves on Ted's Top 10 list back in 2022. Now embarking on a solo career, Allie shares her latest creation, "The Flood," which debuted on April 5th, 2024. Written when Allie was just 17, "The Flood" has undergone multiple iterations with various musicians, ultimately culminating in a version that Allie finds deeply fulfilling creatively.

Then, we turn our attention to indie sensation Ward White, whose upcoming album "Here Come the Dowsers" is set for release on May 17th, 2024. However, it's the lead single "Continuity" that's been generating buzz in the music scene. Ward joins Ted to discuss the evolving landscape of the music industry and delves into the intricate characters and themes woven into "Continuity." Through this song, Ward offers a poignant exploration of the gritty realities lurking beneath the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Ted Asregadoo and Keith Creighton dive deep into new releases from Ariana Grande, Green Day, Honeymoon Suite, The Pineapple Thief, and more! They also discuss the struggle of separating the artist from the art, using Ariana Grande as an example. Is it possible to love her music but not care about her personal life?

• Ariana Grande - Eternal Sunshine: We debate the merits of this new album, including the speculation that it's a "divorce album" and whether you can enjoy the music without following the drama.
• Green Day - Saviors: Did this album take some time to grow on you, or were you hooked from the start? We discuss the band's return to form and their exploration of bisexuality on the track "Bobby Sox."
• Honeymoon Suite - Alive: We celebrate the return of this Canadian band and their latest album. Should you stream it or buy the CD for the full experience?
• The dreamy prog rock brilliance of The Pineapple Thief's It Leads to This is also in the spotlight. This grower of an album might take some time, but the hypnotic and aggressive riffs of "The Frost" and other songs are worth repeated listens. This record might end up on Ted's Best of 2024.
• Ministry - hopiumforthemasses: This album is a wild ride! We discuss the challenges of listening to Ministry's music at high volume and Al Jourgensen's message about the dangers of a "Trump planet."
• RAYE - My 21st Century Blues: This independent success story is one to cheer for. We discuss how RAYE bought back her masters and released a chart-topping album.
• The Last Dinner Party - Prelude to Ecstasy: This hyped band has a lot to live up to. We explore their sound, their influences, and their critical reception.
• NewDad - Madra: Get ready for the next big thing out of Ireland! We discuss the struggle of finding a physical copy of this album and the band's musical influences.

New Discoveries

• Them • "Can’t Call it Mine:" This up-and-coming band is changing their sound with each release. We explore their latest track and their potential.
• Tish Melton: We introduce you to this new singer-songwriter and her beautiful song “Michelle."

We end the show with a sample from Your Future Ghost's new song "Pritty" to leave you on a high note!

Ever wondered what albums shaped your musical DNA? In this supersized episode, we dive deep into the most influential records that have soundtracked the lives of Ted Asregadoo, his former colleagues, listeners, and even his daughter Maya!

First up, a blast from the past! Ted's former iHeartMedia co-worker Michael McGauley returns to the pod, sharing his top 10 picks, heavily influenced by the classic rock giants of the 60s and 70s. Names like The Who, Led Zeppelin, and Steely Dan paint a picture of Michael's musical foundation.

Then, Ted takes the mic, tracing his musical journey chronologically. From the early sparks ignited by KISS, Rush, and the Pretenders, we travel through Dire Straits, X, and Kate Bush, culminating in the present with artists like Steven Wilson and Tanya Donelly.

But wait, there's more! In the second segment, we open the floor to Planet LP listeners and guests. iHeartMedia reporter Jeff Knox brings the punk rock energy with NOFX and Pennywise, while another iHeart album from Ted and Michael's past, Andrea Winkler, showcases her diverse tastes, ranging from Hanson's pop to E-40's hip-hop. Independent musician Nat Jay shares her love for Janet Jackson and John Mayer, while Big Stir Records recording artist Dolf Chaney champions the timeless sounds of The Beatles and XTC. Former Seeing Double member Allie Sandt reveals her Paul Simon and Steely Dan obsession, and Ted's daughter Maya chimes in with her Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey, and Paramore favorites.

Finally, Ted sits down with his wife Julie for an intimate conversation. She unveils her own top 10, featuring a captivating mix of artists like The Beatles, XTC, 'Til Tuesday, The Cure, The Waifs, and New Order.

This episode is a treasure trove of musical discovery, guaranteed to inspire you to explore your musical DNA.

P.S. Don't forget to share your own most influential albums by leaving a voicemail at PlanetLP.com

Remember dial-up modems and AOL CDs that came in the mail? 1995 was a transition year in culture. Yes, there were iconic albums (covered in Episode 94) but there were cultural shifts that shaped the years going forward.

Ted and Keith talk about:

• Dial-up days: The internet was in its infancy, and well, people weren't quite sure what to do with it. Just listen to the compilation from the "Today" show that featured to hear how confusing, hopeful, fearful, and annoying the early Internet was to the hosts of the show.
• Culture in flux: The Telecommunications Act and the Decency Act on media and the rise of social media were two laws that really brought us the reality we're living in today -- for better or worse.
• What was Keith doing in 1995? Short answer: a new career, attended a lot of live shows in Chicago, and found new music recommendations from a local VJ who had a localized version of MTV.
• What was Ted doing in 1995? Short answer: losing his hair, on the cusp of becoming a father, and knee-deep in grad studies at UPenn in Philadelphia.
• 1995. A year of transition.

This episode kicks off a new series on Planet LP called "A Great Year in Music?" by focusing on mostly alternative music in 1995. Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton delve into 1995 by spotlighting 10 albums that, for them, marked some truly great work by artists that they admire. Tricky, Prince, Bjork, Pulp, The Smashing Pumpkins, The Bogmen, Whipping Boy, Belly, Aimee Mann, Rancid and more are in the spotlight for an exciting discussion that will make you want to listen to many of this iconic albums again.

This week, Planet LP welcomes Canadian indie artist Nat Jay for a conversation that defies conventional paths to music industry success. Forget the grueling tours and viral challenges - Nat carved her niche by writing infectious songs that landed on shows like Netflix's "My Life with the Walter Boys," MTV's "Awkward," and Nickelodeon's "The Astronauts."

Join host Planet LP Host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton as they chat with Nat about her unique journey, navigating sync licensing, and staying true to her sound. Dive into the stories behind her latest EP, "Turns Out It's Not The End," featuring "I Do What I Want (Marlowe's Song)" and tracks from other albums and singles like "Built A Wall," "Can't Getcha Out," and "I Will Keep You Warm."

Whether you're a music industry insider or a lover of catchy tunes, this episode is a fresh perspective on chasing your dreams and making your voice heard.

Episode highlights:

• Nat's unexpected rise through sync licensing in television.
• Navigating the world of songwriting for the screen.
• Balancing creative integrity with commercial appeal.
• Insights for aspiring musicians on carving their unique path.

In this episode of The Planet LP Podcast, host Ted Asregadoo takes listeners on a deep dive into Pat Benatar's groundbreaking early career, examining her first four albums that established her as a pioneering force in hard rock. The episode explores how Benatar shattered the glass ceiling for female artists in a male-dominated genre during the late 1970s and early 1980s, while also revealing the creative challenges that emerged with her fourth release.

The journey begins with Patricia Mae Andrzejewski's transformation from a military wife to rock icon, following her path from New York City through various singing gigs to her breakthrough 1979 debut "In the Heat of the Night." Ted analyzes the album's standout tracks, including the chart-topping "Heartbreaker," the new wave-influenced "We Live For Love," and her cover of Johnny Cougar's (later known as John Mellencamp) "I Need a Lover."

The episode highlights "Crimes of Passion" (1980) as Benatar's commercial and artistic peak, featuring the iconic "Hit Me with Your Best Shot" and reaching 4x platinum status. Ted shares personal anecdotes about discovering the album during high school and addresses the controversy surrounding the song "Hell Is for Children," clarifying its powerful message about child abuse rather than satanic themes.

Moving through "Precious Time" (1981), the discussion covers Grammy-winning track "Fire and Ice" and the explosive "Promises in the Dark," while examining Benatar's creative partnership with guitarist Neil Giraldo. However, the episode takes a bit of a critical turn when analyzing "Get Nervous" (1982), revealing how, despite producing solid singles, the album as a whole felt uneven and suggested that the signature "Pat Benatar Sound" had begun to lose its edge. Ted discusses how the formula that had worked so well across three albums was showing signs of creative fatigue, setting the stage for the dramatic reinvention that would come with "Love is a Battlefield" – a song that would refresh her sound and prove she could evolve beyond her established hard rock persona.

From Jam Band Roots to Arena Rock Titans: Diving into Journey's 50-Year Odyssey with Ultimate Classic Rock Editor, Nick DeRiso

Between 1978 and 1986, Journey ruled the airwaves. Multi-platinum albums, chart-topping singles, and packed arenas were their norm. But then, silence. A decade went by with little to no band activity. In 1996, Journey roared back with "Trial By Fire," boasting a #1 Adult Contemporary hit in "When You Love a Woman." However, touring plans were delayed by Steve Perry's hip injury. Undeterred, Journey replaced Perry with Steve Augeri, navigating a new era -- one that, surprisingly, saw another frontman change with Arnel Pineda taking the mic after Augeri's vocal struggles.

In this episode of Planet LP, host Ted Asregadoo welcomes author Nick DeRiso to dissect his deep dive into Journey's history: Journey: Worlds Apart (Time Passages). DeRiso unveils the band's origins as a Santana spin-off, where their early records leaned more towards jam band vibes than the arena rock they'd become known for. He also delves into the post-Perry period, exploring how Journey has kept the music alive for a whopping 50 years.

Celebrate the grand finale of 2023 with episode 91 from Planet LP! Join your host, Ted Asregadoo, and Popdose writer Keith Creighton as they take a retrospective glance at the year's standout albums. Keith recently unveiled his curated list, "An Aging Hipster's Top 50 Albums of 2023," on Popdose. However, as Ted unveils his picks, it becomes evident that their musical tastes are diverse and unique.

Ted and Keith bring insightful commentary about the following artists as they countdown their top albums of 2023:

• The legendary Rolling Stones
• K. Flay, whose must-see mini-documentary adds depth to her artistry
• The iconic Peter Gabriel
• The enchanting Americana sounds of Mikaela Davis
• Lil Yachty's exploration of psychedelic rock with a hip-hop twist
• OMD (Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark)
• Extreme makes a solid album to rock out to
• Immerse yourself in the unique world of The Coral, and don't miss out on "Holy Joe’s Coral Island Medicine Show" in its physical format at the band's store
• Steven Wilson displays musical brilliance in "The Harmony Codex"
• Christian Kjellvander's captivating compositions
• Jessie Ware's excellent disco album is a celebration of sexual liberation
• Iggy Pop keeps getting better and better on "Every Loser"
• The XX's Romy's goes solo with a surprising dance album.
• Madison Beer's standout album should vault her to the pop realm of Taylor, Olivia, and Ariana
• Everything But The Girl
• Angela Perley's album is flavored with elements of country and Laural Canyon stylings
• Mammoth WVH's sophomore powerhouse LP
• Robin Taylor Zander's excels in his musical abilities on his debut album
• Lol Tolhurst, Budgie, and Jacknife Lee find redemption in the City of Los Angeles

Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo welcomes the founders of Popdose, Jeff Giles and Jason Hare to talk about holiday music. Jeff and Jason were the brains behind a long-running series on Popdose called Mellowmas. If you've ever watched Mystery Science Theater 3000, you'll love Jeff and Jason's snarky take on some of the worst Christmas and holiday-themed music released. The series ran for about 10 years and almost extinguished the love Jeff had for Christmas music. But, Jason seemingly never tires of it.

In the first segment, the guys talk about the genesis of Mellowmas, how it migrated from their blogs to Popdose, how it evolved, and why they decided to end the series. The series got so popular that they had two theme songs written for it. One was by Alan O'Day, whose big hit, "Undercover Angel" went to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1977. The other theme song was written by fellow Popdose writer and all-around creative genius, Terje Fjelde. Ted also surprises Jeff and Jason with an AI-generated audiobook reading of a portion of Mellowmas post with Jeff as Santa Claus and Jason as Fin, a vaguely Irish-accented fella. Finally, what "Mellowmas" would be complete without a painfully extended version of "Wonderful Christmastime" and bleating sheep in the holiday classic, "Silent Night."

Segment two is about unironically loving certain holiday songs. The guys each feature five of their favorites that they don't get tired of. And look here's a playlist of them!

Geddy Lee, the vocalist and bassist for the iconic progressive rock band Rush, shares his life story in his memoir "My Effin' Life." From his childhood in Toronto, where he faced bullying and found solace in music, to his lifelong musical partnership with guitarist Alex Lifeson (Alex Lifeson), Lee recounts his journey with honesty and humor.

Lee's memoir delves into his early life as Gershon Weinrib, the son of Holocaust survivors. He describes his struggles in school and his eventual decision to drop out to pursue his dream of becoming a rock musician. Along the way, he meets Lifeson, and together they form Rush, a band that would go on to achieve legendary status.

The memoir also touches on the passing of Neil Peart, Rush's drummer, who died in 2020. Lee reflects on their friendship and the profound impact Peart had on his life and music.

Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo, a longtime Rush fan, provides a detailed and personal review of Lee's memoir, offering insights and anecdotes that resonate with fellow Rush enthusiasts.

Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton are inching closer to the end of the year with the November New Music Report. This episode is jam-packed with some stellar music recommendations just in time for the holidays.

Segment One:  The Big Album

It’s Prince! Known at various times as The Purple One, Christopher, His Royal Badness, The Artist, or Jamie Starr, Prince was at the top of his game between 1980 and 1987 with an impressive music output that few in the music world could match. Why? Because of The Vault. A prolific writer, Prince vaulted roughly 8,000 songs. 

In 1991, after a series of lackluster albums, Prince released “Diamonds and Pearls” with his new backing band, the New Power Generation. The result was his fifth (and final) #1 hit in the US with “Cream,” a #3 hit with the title track, and two top 20 hits with “Gett Off” and Money Don’t Matter 2 Night.” Overall, “Diamonds and Pearls” was an absolute commercial success for Prince.  

On October 27, 2023, Sony released a super deluxe version with three CDs of vaulted tracks, a double live album, a remaster of the original record, and a disc with singles and different mixes. That’s a lot of music, and Ted and Keith break it all down into digestible bits to highlight what's brilliant about the super deluxe edition, what's good, and what misses the mark.  

Segment Two: New Music Releases 

The Transcanada Highwaymen’s “Explosive Hits Vol #1 is mostly a carefully curated album of cover songs popular in the 1970s. These are Mellow and Radio Gold songs sung by a supergroup consisting of Moe Berry from The Pursuit of Happiness, Chris Murphy from Sloan, Craig Morthey from Odds, and Steven Page formerly of the Barenaked Ladies, but has gone on to a fantastic solo career. Featured songs include their cover of Andy Kim’s “Rock Me Gently, and “Which Way You Goin’ Billy” by The Poppy Family. Samples of both songs are embedded in this episode. 

Lol Tolhurst (former drummer from The Cure), Budgie (from Siouxsie & The Banshees), and producer Jackknife Lee have created a cinematic mindscrew of an album entitled “Los Angles.” 

Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark are back with what will likely be the final album of their career, and boy what a way to go out!  Nowhere on the record are songs that sound like their biggest US hit, “If You Leave.” Rather, as Keith says, this is a soundtrack for the end of the world. Ted compares “Bauhaus Staircase” to Tears for Fears’ “The Tipping Point” for its strength, its familiarity at times, and the satisfying way it’s all put together. 

Duran Duran is back with Dance Macabre, a Halloween-theme mashup of covers, updated obscure deep cuts, and some originals. Also, guitarist Andy Taylor returns to the group, and so does the drummer of 17 years with the band, Warren Cuccrullo. 

If you want to go on a journey with a musician who is a bit of an acquired taste, give Christian Kjellvander a try. “Hold Your Love Still” may not be for everyone, but once you become familiar with Kjellvander’s voice, you’ll find this record mesmerizing — as you will hear. 

Nat Jay’s latest EP, “Turns Out It’s Not The End” is one of Keith’s favorites this year. Comparing her to an outlier star to Taylor Swift’s galaxy-consuming supernova, Jay’s song “Something More” could have been included in the new Hunger Games soundtrack — and you’ll be able to hear why. 

Shplang! has been on the music scene for almost three decades, and is part of the International Pop Overthrow scene. Their latest song, “Understood” is featured in this episode. 

Segment Three: Stream It Before You Buy It

Quick hit recommendations.<

In the November 2023 issue of Rolling Stone magazine, there's a big takedown of rock music by the current generation of music writers who work for the publication. The editor, Noah Shachtman, writers Latonia Davis, Earl Douglas, Darrell McNeill, and Althea Legaspi all call out co-founder of Rolling Stone Jann Wenner for his stupid comments in the New York Times about women and black folks not being articulate or philosophers of rock worthy of inclusion in his book, The Masters: Conversations with Dylan, Lennon, Jagger, Townshend, Garcia, Bono, and Springsteen. Words like "problematic," "accountable," "boys' club," and "exclusion" were peppered into the criticism of Wenner.

The writers are correct.

Rock music from the 60s to the 2000s has been an exclusive club that favored straight white men by elevating their creations as worthy of attention to the exclusion of others. We live in a world where we can't cleanse the past like a Maoist cultural revolution. But even with 99 problems of rock music, there's no denying the cultural significance of The Rolling Stones and The Beatles in the history of rock.

Both bands have released new to newish music into the world this year, and "Planet LP" host Ted Asregadoo offers up his views not only on rock music but also on The Rolling Stones and The Beatles' latest releases. He also brings in his family to react to the song "Now and Then" — and the results of this roundtable of sorts are mixed.

Popdose writer Keith Creighton pops in for a visit with Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo to talk about new music releases for October. But that's not all! In the first segment, Ted and Keith chat about Taylor Swift's new concert film and how her deal with AMC has been a one woman stimulus program for the movie industry.

In the second segment, the discussion turns to new music by the likes of:

Volk

Nat Jay

Your Future Ghost

Laura Jane Grace

The Jack Rubies

boygenius

The Rolling Stones

Chris Shiflett

Duff McKagan

Guji (Download the EP from Bandcamp while you can).

As well as quick-hit mentions of Kylie Minogue, Paul Rodgers, The Replacements, Talking Heads, and Devo!

In this episode of the Planet LP podcast, host Ted Asreagdoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton are joined by Robin Taylor Zander (RTZ), known for his work as a rhythm guitarist in the legendary rock band Cheap Trick. The conversation revolves around Robin's highly anticipated first solo album, "The Distance," which was released in April 2023. Produced by the acclaimed Jack Douglas, the album has garnered positive reviews from music critics.

During the discussion, Robin shares insights into the creative process behind "The Distance," revealing that many of the songs were written years ago. He also delves into the profound influence his father, Robin Wayne Zander (co-founder and lead singer of Cheap Trick), had on his lifelong passion for music.

Join us as we explore the captivating journey of Robin Taylor Zander, his musical heritage, and his experience of crafting the album, "The Distance."

The conversation continues between Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton about new music releases for September 2023. This is part two of the New Music Report and in this episode, Ted and Keith talk about the latest releases from the following:

The Coral

Nation of Language

Robin Taylor Zander

Andy Taylor (from Duran Duran)

Demi Lovato

The Who

Fences

Trans-Canada Highwaymen

Also, some deep talk about Rolling Stone magazine and how sometimes the music industry is summed up by Andy Taylor's album title: "Man's a Wolf to Man."

The new releases have come so fast and furious that we need two episodes to talk about them. Popdose writer Keith Creighton is back with the Popdose New Music Report for September. Keith and Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo not only discusses new music, but also talk about the MTV Video Music Awards, the generational nature of pop music, and issues former Rolling Stone co-founder Jann Wenner has with musicians who don't fit his definition of "masters" of their craft.

The second segment is all about new music and big reissues! Featured artists include:

Orbis Max

Dolph Chaney

Marvin Gaye

Maren Morris

Olivia Rodrigo

Madison Beer

Cindy Wilson

Steven Wilson

Best Ex

K. Flay

The Pretenders

Playlist from Episode 83 on Apple Music:

In this Spring 2025 episode of the Planet LP Podcast, host Ted Asregadoo shares his first-hand experience at the Cruel World Music Festival in Pasadena, California, held on May 17, 2025. Attending his very first music festival to celebrate a milestone birthday, Ted is joined by longtime friend and fellow music superfan John Maschino for a lively recap of the day's highlights.

Together, they dive into performances from a stellar lineup of 1980s new wave, post-punk, and synthpop icons, including:

• Midge Ure (Ultravox)
• Alison Moyet (Yaz)
• A long-awaited Til Tuesday reunion
• Nation of Language
• She Wants Revenge
• Devo
• Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
• The Go-Go’s
• New Order

Whether you love ’80s alternative bands, live music experiences, or just want the inside scoop on the 2025 Cruel World Festival, this episode is packed with nostalgia, highlights, and passionate commentary.

In the first segment of the Planet LP podcast, host Ted Asregadoo welcomes writer and producer Scott Malchus to discuss the life and music of Robbie Robertson, who passed away on August 9th at the age of 80. Malchus wrote a touching piece for Popdose in 2008 on the power of Robertson's song "What About Now" from the 1991 album, "Storyville." The post was about many things, but it focused on how Robertson's song intersected with a turning point in Malchus' life and made a life-changing trajectory. This is a must-listen for fans of Robbie Robertson, as well as anyone who has ever been inspired by music to make a positive change in their lives.

In the second segment, Popdose writer Keith Creighton is back with another New Music Report. New releases for August include music by:

Pia Toscano - An amazing album that nails the center between Celine Dion and Adele.

Mammoth WVH -- Wolfgang Van Halen is becoming a one-man world's most dangerous band.

The LoveStrange -- A musical tour de force with intense energy and a throwback '80s synth break with lyrics that seem to take their inspiration from School House Rock's "Tyrannosaurus Debt."

The Ocean Blue -- Truly exquisite musicianship, where melodic lines and fills often hit the heartstrings as strongly as David Schelzel’s singing and lyrics.

Public Image Ltd. -- This album radiates with the constant left turns and surprises that make a PiL album urgent, entertaining, danceable, and fascinating.

The Hives --The notorious sharp-suited Swedes are back to save the world from safe rock.

Rick Springfield -- For fans of the hits – Springfield returns to the well with glorious results.

The Flashcubes -- Power pop that will make you think you are listening to the greatest Who album that was never released.

Graham Parker -- Parker sounds a lot like Van Morrisson (without the baggage). He’s come in and out of vogue and remains on top of his game. 

Dexys -- Kevin Rowland comes to terms with toxic masculinity and how he overcompensated for his true identity.

Carly Rae Jepsen - Carly still sounds like a teenage dream and is still able to soundtrack the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with human connection (or lack thereof).

Yellowjackets Soundtrack -- A really good '90s era mixtape that flows well -- even with the addition of cover songs.

Disclosure -- The album "Settle" still sounds futuristic and ahead of its time a decade later. 

The Remainder -- Blancmange’s Neil Arthur continues his prolific run of electronic pop releases with another side hustle where he collabs with other artists with amazing results.

In this episode, Ted Asregadoo, the host of Planet LP, speaks with Annie Logue, a finance and culture writer who runs the Substack newsletter "The Whatever Years." They discuss the late Irish singer-songwriter Sinead O'Connor, who passed away on July 26, 2023, at the age of 56. O'Connor was known for her music career that began in the 80s and her willingness to confront controversy head-on.

The first segment of the conversation focuses on O'Connor's difficult childhood, including the abuse she suffered from her mother. They also discuss O'Connor's notable fight with the Catholic Church over the sexual abuse of minors, which led to her protest on Saturday Night Live in 1992. Finally, they touch on O'Connor's ongoing struggles with the music industry.

In the second segment, Ted and Annie share their five favorite songs from Sinead O'Connor's catalog. These songs not only exemplify her powerful voice but also highlight what a gifted songwriter she was; a songwriter whose deeply personal and overtly religious songs will leave a lasting impact on the culture for decades to come.

New music in July isn't as much of a firehose of releases as it was in June, but there are some great new CDs that Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and Keith Creighton from Popdose talk about in July's New Music Report.

In the first segment, it's all about Prince. His estate released a couple of tracks from The Vault ("All a Share Together Now" and "7 (eFlat Major)." "7" is a remix, but "All a Share Together Now" is a 2006 track about reparations. The theme of the song spurs a discussion of how Prince's words and deeds didn't always match up, and how the members of the Revolution kind of got the short end of the stick when it came to creating music as a band. As Keith so eloquently said in the episode, "Having spent a lifetime as a fan, and a year writing about him for Diffuser/UltimatePrince – I see Prince less of a genius and more of a prism – by himself, he's just a piece of glass. But when the light of the band shines through, it's rainbows."

The other big news is the news from the industrial band, Ministry. After 40 years, Ministry is revisiting songs from their 1983 new wave/synth record, "With Sympathy" to re-record a new version of some songs, including "Revenge."

The Who is releasing a massive super deluxe edition of "Who's Next" and "Life House" in September. Ted wonders if we really need all this vaulted music since, well, "Life House" was abandoned for a reason and the best songs from those sessions ended up on the classic album, "Who's Next." Maybe this is a cash grab? Or maybe there will be some truly wonderful gems contained in the bonus tracks.

Other new releases include:

Blur's "The Ballad of Darren," James, " Be Opened By The Wonderful," Greta Van Fleet's, "Starcatcher," Nils Lofgren's "Mountains," Mikaela Davis' "And Southern Star" -- where we feature the song "Cinderella" -- Waves Crashing, Korine's "Tear," Gabriels' "Angels & Queens," and, yes, Barbie The Album!

Hey there music lovers! We all know that sometimes we can get stuck listening to the same old tunes. Well, on the latest episode of Planet LP, our host Ted Asregadoo invited his former podcasting partner, John Young, to join him on a musical adventure. They decided to ask their Gen Z kids to pick out some albums for them to listen to, in order to broaden their musical horizons. The plan was to spend some quality time with each record -- listening without any preconceived notions. Will Ted's repeated spins of "Speak Now" by Taylor Swift (Taylor's Version) make him into a Swiftie? Will the sometimes unusual guitar sounds on Madison Cunningham's "Revealer" lead to John being more interested in this style of music? Answers to those questions (and more) are in the episode, Listening Without Prejudice.

"Synchronicity" by The Police is a landmark (and the last) album by the power trio who burst onto the music scene in 1978. Shedding whatever new wave and ska roots the band cultivated when they started, "Synchronicity" has become an iconic record since it was released on June 17, 1983. Forty years later, Planet LP Host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton talk about the lasting impact of "Synchronicity" in the first segment.

The second segment is all about new music releases for June 2023 -- which includes music by the following:

Brian May and Eddie Van Halen

Foo Fighters

Love and Rockets

Rick Springfield

Matchbox Twenty

Sparkle Jets UK

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

Amanda Shires

Kenny Rogers

Dimestore Darlings

Allison Goldfrapp

Niall Horan

Simply Red

Sparks

Rancid

Extreme

In the third segment, Ted and Keith discuss why so many great albums sound so lousy.

It's a packed episode -- but that's because we're all about value here at Planet LP.

Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo welcomes Danielle Jennings to the pod to talk about relationships and how romantic, friendly, familial, and even business relationships can be complicated -- and how those complications often get expressed in songs. The first part of the episode centers on dating and what Danielle has learned about relationships through The 90-Day Relationship Experiment by the Tantra Institute. In the music-talk part of the episode, Ted and Danielle talk about codependent songs, songs about toxic or dysfunctional relationships, and songs where flipping the perspective will give one wholly different view of a love song.

Artists Featured

The Who

Consolidated

Tanya Donelly

Madison Cunningham

Bruce Cockburn

Taylor Swift

Radiohead

Robyn

Lady Gaga

Miley Cyrus

Toni Braxton

Trisha Yearwood

Death Cab For Cutie

System of a Down

Etta James

Frank Sinatra

Bonnie Raitt

TLC

Sia

In this episode, it's old home week as Ted Asregadoo welcomes Popdose founder Jeff Giles to the pod to talk about the music of Gordon Lightfoot in the first segment. In the second segment, Popdose writer Keith Creighton returns with the New Music Report for May 2023 -- and a discussion on the Class of 2023 in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In the spotlight with new music releases are:

The Heavy

The Damned

The Smashing Pumpkins

Jessie Ware

Bebe Rexha

Softee

Ian Hunter

Dropkick Murphys

My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult

Josie Cotton

On August 1, 2015, Rush played their last show at the Forum in Los Angeles. Five years later, Rush's drummer and lyricist Neil Peart passed away from cancer. The band is no more, but the endurance of Rush's music among its fans is not fading. In this episode, Ted chats with Steve and Gerry of the Something for Nothing podcast that, after 175 episodes, hit the pause button on new episodes. While that podcast is on hiatus, Steve and Gerry visit Planet LP to talk to Ted Asregadoo about Rush's music, how they became fans, and to rank order the final track on each of Rush's 19 studio albums.

1. Working Man (1974) 2. In The End (1975) 3. The Fountain of Lamneth (1975) 4. Something for Nothing (1976) 5. Cygnus X-1 Book I: The Voyage (1977) 6. La Villa Strangiato (1978) 7. Natural Science (1980) 8. Vital Signs (1981) 9. Countdown (1982) 10. Between the Wheels (1984) 11. Mystic Rhythms (1985) 12. High Water (1987) 13. Available Light (1989) 14. You Bet Your Life (1991) 15. Everyday Glory (1993) 16. Carve Away The Stone (1996) 17. Out of the Cradle (2002) 18. We Hold On (2007) 19. The Garden (2012)

Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton talk about new music releases for April 2023 on the monthly Planet LP feature, the Popdose New Music Report. This month is an incredibly voluminous time for new music. In this episode, Ted and Keith delve into the latest by:

Orbis Max (and interview Dw Dunphy from the band about their latest song, "R U Okay")

boygenius

Everything But The Girl

Peter Gabriel

Metallica

LA Guns

Extreme

Ghost

Electric Revival

A Certain Ratio

Peggy Lee

Louise Burns

Robocop Kraus

Assassins

Iress

Melanie Martinez

Sunny War

In 1982, The Joneses were starting to make a name for themselves in the LA music scene. While getting good press from the LA Weekly and LA Times, and playing to big crowds in the club circuit, the leader of the band Jeff Drake found that as The Joneses grew in popularity, so too did his addiction to heroin.

Jeff's story of his years as a musician, his addiction, and how a bank robbery led to him serving three years in a federal prison is chronicled in his book, GUILTY! My Life in The Joneses, A Heroin Addict, A Bank Robber, and A Federal Inmate, published by HoZac Press. In this interview with Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo, Jeff recounts growing up in Orange County in the LA area, his move to the central valley city of Merced, the various bands he started, his move back to LA, and the rise and fall of The Joneses -- a band that Guns N' Roses, Poison, and others borrowed heavily from.

GUILTY! My Life in The Joneses... is available to buy at HoZac Books, and The Joneses' entire catalog is available to purchase at their Bandcamp page.

In this episode of "The Planet LP Podcast," host Ted Asregadoo welcomes back guest Scott Malchus for a nostalgic dive into the world of midnight movies.

Remember those late-night screenings of cult classics like "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and "Pink Floyd: The Wall"?

Scott and Ted share their favorite music-related films, including Ted's picks like "This is Spinal Tap," "Stop Making Sense," and "Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage." Scott's selections include "Almost Famous," "A Hard Day's Night," "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream," and more. The guys also discuss how groundbreaking and weird David Lynch's "Eraserhead" was and the pros and cons of the Bob Dylan biopic, "A Complete Unknown."

Get ready for a lively discussion on the magic of cinema and the enduring power of music in film!

Popdose writer Keith Creighton makes his monthly stop to Planet LP to visit Ted Asregadoo and brings along a boatload of CDs to recommend to listeners.

This month, the guys start with a deep discussion of U2's latest release, "Songs of Surrender," the documentary on Disney+ "Bono & The Edge: A Sort of Homecoming, with Dave Letterman," and close out the segment by spotlighting the lastest release from Inhaler -- a band fronted by Eli Hewson...who is Bono's son.

The second segment starts by tackling the massive 4 CD box set curated by Steven Wilson, Intrigue: Steven Wilson Presents Progressive Sounds in UK Alternative Music 1979-1989. Other box sets include Musik Music Musique 3.0 – 1982 Synthpop On The Air and 1981 • All Out Attack.

Then we're off to the races by spotlighting music by The Waeve, Gorillaz, Metal Marty's Greatest Hits, The Ragged Jubilee, Mimi Webb, Brix Smith, Adam Lambert, Chris Church, Fernando Perdomo (Broken Sound), The Semi-Supervillains, Bad Hombres, and Peter Gabriel.

Plus, this month see the release of expanded CD editions from Flogging Molly, Sabrina Carpenter, Meghan Trainor, and Fletcher.

See? It really is a boatload of music.

In this episode, Ted Asregadoo welcomes back Michael McGauley to talk about the pros, the cons, and something in between when it comes to cover songs. In the first section, the guys talk about why bands and artists cover music by others. The second section delves into the question of cover songs as gateways into exploring the music of other artists -- often the artist who originally created the music. In the third section, it's a good old-fashioned Top 10 list of favorite cover songs that has some intriguing twists and turns.

Featured artists:

Cowboy Junkies

Mark Ronson

Amy Winehouse

The Zutons

Patti Smith Group

Devo

Aretha Franklin

Kate Bush

David Bowie

Ike and Tina Turner

John Coltrane

Jimi Hendrix

Bob Dylan

The Rolling Stones

John Lennon

Duane Allman

Solomon Burke

The Who

Manfred Mann

Train

Bruce Springsteen

An epic episode with lots to talk about for the month of February. Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton talk about the Grammy Awards, why Pitchfork's takedown of the new Maneskin album Rush! misses the mark of music criticism, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees for 2023, and new music releases for February 2023.

New Music Releases Discussed in This Episode:

Maneskin

The Smashing Pumpkins

Ladytron

The Church

New Order (reissue)

Shania Twain

Holden Laurence

Unloved

The Nils

Lil Yachty

Peter Gabriel

Lana Del Rey

U2

In this present/past episode, Ted Asregadoo digs deep into "Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story" by the lead singer and lyricist for U2, Bono. Bono's memoir is a love letter to his wife Alison, his bandmates in U2, his children, his father, mother, brother, and God. It's a deeply moving story of how rock and roll, faith, and love saved him from despair. However, despite the fact that the book is very well written, and there are many powerful moments of his life recounted, it falls short in some ways. Ted explains why.

The second segment is one from the audio archives. Ted features a 2009 interview he did with country-pop singer, Jessica Harp. Jessica and Michelle Branch fronted the short-lived group The Wreckers -- which only had one studio and one live album before the band called it quits. In 2009, Jessica released a solo album entitled "A Woman Needs." Her PR firm contacted Ted (who was writing a lot for Popdose at the time) about doing an interview to promote the record -- which, of course, he agreed to. This interview features clips from the album -- which had not had a full release yet -- so some of the songs were heard for the first time on this recording. Despite generally good reviews for the album, Harp announced that she was done performing and would be focusing on songwriting going forward. "A Woman Needs" has many solid tunes like "A Boy Like Me," the title track, and "Love Letter" and shows that country music in 2009 was continuing to inch closer to pop music than going back to its roots for inspiration.

The full interview of Bono talking to NPR's Rachel Martin is on NPR's YouTube Channel. A portion of that interview was used in this episode to illustrate U2s deep faith and how it affected the band's songwriting.

Gen X is a generation born between the years 1965 and 1980. Sometimes called the middle child generation -- as they are sandwiched between Baby Boomers and Millenials -- they are anything but when it comes to pop culture. In this episode, Ted Asregadoo welcomes back two of his Popdose colleagues, Dw Dunphy and Beau Dure, to talk about the music of Gen X.

Episode Highlights

In the first segment, the guys talk about what songs, genres, artists, or bands best exemplify Gen X. Beau starts with alt-pop, alt-rock, and artists who were on early MTV. Dw, notes that MTV (in the early years) was very Boomer-heavy in terms of artists featured. However, when Madonna burst onto the scene, she was the first MTV star to really stand out from the standard Boomer rock. He also notes that in addition to MTV, modern rock radio became a hallmark of Gen X's music taste. Ted says that hip-hop and rap were truly revolutionary in upending the status quo. If there was a genre that really says "Gen X," it's hip hop. Grunge was more of a remix of hard rock and punk, while hip-hop remixed pop culture into a musical form that was unlike anything that came before it.

The music of Deftones takes us into the second segment where Dw asks Ted and Beau about chord modulation in music. Specifically, why "the big finish" that was so prevalent in the music of the past is mostly absent nowadays. Dw notes that TikTok may be a contributing factor to the lack of chord modulation. Beau talks about the Canadian group, Alvvays (pronounced "always") and how their music does incorporate chord modulation into a kind of dreamy '90s-era throwback sound. He also notes that other Canadian band, Metric, and even Taylor Swift are very much in the tradition of trying different things in their music that includes chord modulation and crossing genres. With Taylor Swift, Ted notes that Jack Antonoff has helped Swift try new things, but his production elements tend to be limited -- with some elements getting recycled from "Masseduction" by St. Vincent in 2017 onto Taylor Swift's "Midnights."

In the third segment, St. Vincent's "Hang On Me" (produced by Jack Antonoff) takes us into a discussion about generations being analogous to astrology. Beau, notes that there are shared experiences that can be unique to a generation. Dw says that these generational boxes aren't really embraced among Gen X and Millenials, but he sees the generational identity strongest among Boomers. The conversation then moves onto rock and alt-rock bands that tend to be embraced by Gen X; bands and artists like Pearl Jam, U2, Talking Heads, The Cure, The Smiths, New Order, Belly, Sonic Youth, X, Elvis Costello, Joe Jackson, Blink 182, Smashing Pumpkins, Simple Minds, and Tears for Fears...just to name a bunch.

Finally, the episode concludes with the guys talking about two soundtracks: "Reality Bites" and "Singles." Both movies and their soundtracks were supposed to represent Gen X. And while both soundtracks did a fairly good job doing that for rock and pop, the movies were kind of hit or miss -- with "Reality Bites" really missing the mark.

Happy 2023! The Planet LP podcast kicks off its third year with a big, big show! First off, Popdose writer Keith Creighton checks in with his monthly New Music Report spotlighting a number of albums that signal 2023 is off to a great start in terms of quality music.

Segment one: Keith and Ted talk about what Keith says is going to be his top album of 2023: Iggy Pop's "Every Loser." Other albums in the spotlight include "Lobes" by We Are Scientists, "The Candle and the Flame by Robert Forster, "There's Nothing But Space, Man!" by Sam Ryder, and Keith's "#1 music crush," Angela Perley with "Turn Me Loose."

Segment two: One of the albums in Keith's Top 50 CDs of 2022 on Popdose was from LA-based singer, songwriter, and producer, Ward White. His 14th album, "Ice Cream Chords" is #8 on Keith's Top 50 and, as he wrote, " is a musical ice cream truck packed with delicious bon mots and sonic sundaes." Ward beamed down to Planet LP to talk about his music with Ted Asregadoo and Keith. The wide-ranging conversation touched on his current album, his musical influences (Bowie being one of them -- which you can tell in Ward's vocal phrasing on many songs), the video for the song "Mezcal Moth," and what the term ice cream chords really means.

Segment three: The Nervous Eaters started in the 1970s as a hard-rocking band from Boston that had the aggressiveness of punk. Their latest album "Monsters + Angels" was on Planet LP's Best of 2022. Bassist Brad Hallen swung by Planet LP to talk about his career (which included a stint as bassist for Ministry), becoming a member of The Nervous Eaters, and how the latest album came about with three demos that included Ted's favorite, "End of the World Girl."

Ted Asregadoo and Keith Creighton interject lots of twists and turns as they count down from 10 to 1 their top songs and albums of 2022. Plenty of diverse selections from a year that produced a lot of quality music that sometimes gets buried by the volume of new music that gets released every day. Some of the artists include The Linda Lindas, Tears for Fears, The Nervous Eaters, Metallica, Seeing Double, Altered Images, Semprini, The Cult, Let's Eat Grandma, Tove Lo, The Weeknd, Envy of None, Flogging Molly, Madison Cunningham, and much, much more!

Remember, Keith's year in review on Popdose will be available later in December, so make sure you check that out for albums that are in his Top 25.

If you're a band, artist, or music author looking to talk about your creations, make sure to email Ted at Ted@planetlp.com to inquire about booking an interview on the Planet LP Podcast.

Happy Holidays! And here's to a wonderful 2023!

Noah Rough, CEO and founder of the social media music app Groupie, visits Planet LP to talk to Ted Asregadoo about why Groupie is a far different app for music lovers than Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Noah is also a big fan of club music, and he shares his Hot Five club songs that have been his go-to tunes for positivity, energy, and motivation. Noah's playlist is available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music by looking for Ted Asregadoo's profile.

San Francisco Bay Area-based writer and music journalist Michael Goldberg visits Planet LP to talk with Ted Asregadoo about his book that highlights over 40 years of interviews and articles spotlighting iconic musicians. Ted and Michael touch on the revolutionary music of Devo, The Clash, Bob Dylan, Patti Smith, Prince, and John Lee Hooker. Michael's book is jam-packed with wonderfully written stories that highlight the power of music to be a transformative art form in the world.

Purchase "Addicted To Noise: The Music Writings of Michael Goldberg" on Amazon

This is a monster episode! Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose writer Keith Creighton have a shipping container full of new music suggestions. Plus, the guys welcome the New York-based rock band Seeing Double to talk about their latest single, "Bygones" -- which is featured at the end of the episode.

For those looking for Terrible Thrills Vol 2 by Bleachers, you can hear it on Apple Music.

IT’S THE FINAL EPISODE OF 2024!

Join Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and Popdose's Keith Creighton as they wrap up an incredible year of music! In this jam-packed episode, Ted and Keith dive into their favorite songs and albums of 2024—not with a ranked list, but with thematic categories that make for a thoughtful and entertaining retrospective.

In the first segment, Keith and Ted talk about bigger music trends like: -- The deluge of streaming content. -- The impact of AI on music creation -- and how Spotify reaps the profits from these non-human-created songs. -- The importance of human creativity in cultural expressions like music.

Breakthroughs and Debuts

Keith talks up the music by and film about Kneecap -- a hip-hop trio whose raps are entirely in Galic. Their current album Fine Art is available now. Fat Dog also tops Keith's breakthroughs and debuts this year. If you're into the early Ministry and that whole industrial genre, you'll love Woof by Fat Dog. Finally, The Waeve, a UK duo featuring singer-songwriters Graham Coxon and Rose Elinor Dougall. Keith said that if he did rank his albums this year, City Lights by The Waeve would top his list. Ted's Single Play picks are: "The Flood" by Allie Sandt. If you're a fan of Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, Paul Simon, or Madison Cunningham, Allie's music is a must-listen. With songwriting that reflects the depth and wisdom of an old soul, Allie weaves timeless influences into a sound that's uniquely her own. Her heartfelt lyrics and melodic craftsmanship show incredible promise, and Ted is rooting for her career to take off— because she truly deserves it.

The second song is As For The Future's track "The Mob" -- a sly, samba-infused commentary on populism that's as counter-cultural as it is catchy. If you're a fan of Sergio Mendes and Brazil '66 or were hooked on Swing Out Sister back in 1987, this song will strike a chord. With its smooth grooves and clever lyrics, "The Mob" blends nostalgia with a fresh, modern edge—proof that As For The Future knows how to make a bold musical statement.

Another UK Invasion

The Last Dinner Party is a UK band that formed during COVID-19. Surprisingly, before they had a single out, they opened for The Rolling Stones. The Last Dinner Party is what Keith called a total "buzz band" that entertained the public and press with their live shows, fashion, and visual style. Their album, Prelude To Ecstasy did deliver the goods -- as it were -- and lived up to its hype. Irish shoegaze band NewDad, which Keith describes as "very sweet, tender, dark, shoegazing music," reminds him of Lush -- which made him spin the album many times since its release. And while Brigitte Calls Me Baby are not from the UK (they are from Chicago), Keith connected with their music because their style reminds him of The Smiths crossed with Elvis Presley. Their debut album is The Future Is Our Way Out.

Ted's sort of Single Play picks for this segment are:

A Planet LP favorite! Ward White's "Continuity" is a masterclass in wit, quirky storytelling, and exceptional musicianship. The opening line is irresistibly catchy—it sneaks into your head and stays there, a sure sign the song is working its magic. Ward's sharp sense of humor shines throughout, making "Continuity" both clever and captivating. It's a standout track that showcases his unique charm and talent. Though Ward is not from the UK, he sure sounds like he could be -- kind of like the band Brigitte Calls Me Baby.

It Leads to This by The Pineapple Thief has been Ted's most-listened-to album of 2024—and for good reason. He was hooked after seeing them live in San Francisco on December 9th. While he admits to unfamiliarity with their older work, It Leads to This completely won him over. It balances heavy guitar riffs with a meditative, Pink Floyd-like, immersive, and introspective vibe. It might not be for everyone, but if atmospheric, thoughtful rock is your thing, It Leads to This is absolutely worth a listen.

New Power Pop

When it comes to power pop, think The Knack's "My Sharona," or Rick Springfield, and Cheap Trick. But what's when it comes to power pop in 2024 sometimes what's old is new again. Keith recommends a band that opened for The Beatles during the final tour and shared the same manager. That band is The Cyrkle -- whose unusual spelling was suggested by John Lennon. Their 2024 release on Big Stir Records is called Revival, and it's among Keith's most-played albums this year. Fun fact: Band member Tom Dawes (alas, he died in 2007) was a successful jingle writer after The Cyrkle disbanded. He wrote "Plop, Plop, Fizz, Fizz" for Alka-Seltzer, which ran in their ads from 1975-1980.

Another power pop gem is The Half-Cubes, whose album Pop Treasures is a carefully curated album of cover songs that mine some tracks from 10cc, OMD, Del Amitri, and Trashcan Sinatras.

Ted's Single Play picks are:

Kula Shaker's "Indian Record Player" is a catchy pop anthem that seamlessly blends Western pop music sensibilities with a nostalgic nod to the golden age of Bollywood in the lyrics. Check out their latest release, Natural Magick.

Galantis, David Guetta, and 5 Seconds of Summer team up for "Lighter," a feel-good anthem that’s pure pop perfection. Clocking in at just 2:52, the song is packed with infectious hooks and an upbeat vibe that’ll have you dancing from start to finish. It doesn’t overstay its welcome or try to be overly complicated—it’s simply a joyful, high-energy track with a great beat that’s impossible to resist. Sometimes, all you need is a song like this to brighten your day and get you moving.

Best Comebacks

Keith's first comeback record is from The Libertines, All Quiet on the Eastern Esplanade -- which is an astonishing comeback considering the substance abuse problems of some of the band members, like vocalist and guitarist Pete Doherty. Check out the single "Run, Run, Run" which excels at presenting what a good pub band sounds like when they are sober.

Guess who's back? The Zutons! Best known for writing Amy Winehouse's most famous cover song ("Valarie"), their latest album The Big Decider is such a strong album from a band that was on hiatus for years that most folks probably thought they broke up for good. Nope.

Ted's picks center on bigger names like The Cure's Songs Of A Lost World. While the album is light on hooks, it's pretty heavy on misery, which, considering Robert Smith world view is not a surprise. While The Cure's music is not for everyone, those who loved their 1989 release Disintegration will find The Cure's latest album a very familiar experience.

Pearl Jam knocked it out of the park with Dark Matter. The title track and the song "Won't Tell" are two that stood out in this incredibly strong collection of songs. Keith notes that a good amount of credit goes to producer Andrews Watt, who has a knack for bringing out the best in older acts like Pearl Jam, The Rolling Stones, Ozzy, and the like.

Single Play highlights not related to comebacks:

Paper Citizen's "Car Stereo"-- a song dedicated to the importance of friendship in one's life and right up there in Ted's top singles of 2024.

Linkin Park's "The Emptiness Machine" is a welcome return to form. Now that they have a new singer, it has brought to the forefront a very 20-something energy that recalls Paramore back in the day.

Music Royals

While the boys like Kendrick Lamar and Drake dissed each other in 2024, the girls like Charlie XCX (brat), Ariana Grande (Eternal Sunshine and Wicked), Sabrina Carpenter (Short n' Sweet), Dua Lipa (Radical Optimism), and Chappell Roan where all about community and supporting each other's music and careers.

And finally, as the Eras Tour came to a close, Taylor Swift showed what spreading the wealth means. She's now a billionaire, but she gave back to her employees with $100,000 bonuses after the tour ended.

Now, as the year is winding down, Keith said he's going to spend a lot of time with Swift's The Tortured Poets Department, while Ted is going to spend more time looking for rock bands with whom he is unfamiliar -- you know, if we're being grammatically correct here.

On this episode of the Planet LP podcast, host Ted Asregadoo meets up with novelist, pop culture writer, and podcast host Jeff Giles to recommend some essential reads for music lovers. Ted and Jeff dive into a curated selection of rock biographies, behind-the-scenes histories, and critical perspectives on some of music’s biggest names.

Get ready for some deep talk about My Effin' Life by Geddy Lee, Nothing But A Good Time: The Uncensored History of the '80s Hard Rock Explosion by Tom Beaujour and Richard Bienstock, Surrender by Bono, All Over The Place: The Rise of The BANGLES From The L.A. Underground by Eric M. Shade, A Few Words in Defense of Our Country: The Biography of Randy Newman by Robert Hilburn, Rememberings by Sinéad O'Connor, and more.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering these artists, Ted and Jeff's recommendations are sure to add some rock & roll to your reading list!

American Idiot: A 20th Anniversary Retrospective

Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo and guest pop culture and sports writer Beau Dure commemorate the 20th anniversary of Green Day's iconic album, "American Idiot." In this in-depth discussion, Ted and Beau delve into the political and social climate that shaped "American Idiot," exploring themes of generational alienation, disillusionment, and the impact of significant events like the 2000 presidential election, the 9/11 attacks, and the Iraq War.

The album's central character, St. Jimmy/Jesus of Suburbia, is at the heart of the conversation -- which Beau wrote about in 2017 in an article published on Popdose. Ted and Beau explore the complexities of St. Jimmy/Jesus and how he/they embody the frustrations and anxieties of a generation coming of age in a tumultuous time. From the album's iconic tracks to its enduring legacy, this episode offers an in-depth look at "American Idiot" and its continued relevance in today's world.

Purple Rain Revisited

Forty years after its release, Purple Rain continues to cast a mesmerizing spell. Join Planet LP host Ted Asregadoo as he delves deep into this iconic album and film with a panel of Prince experts: Keith Creighton from Popdose, Ultimate Prince and frequent Planet LP contributor, Matthew Wilkening from Ultimate Classic Rock and Ultimate Prince, and Theo Gonzalves who is part of the Prince fam.

From their earliest encounters with Prince's music to dissecting the flawless tracks on Purple Rain, our guests share their journeys as devoted fans. They dive deep into the album's impact, choose their favorite songs from the record, and dive into the highs and lows of the Purple Rain film. This episode is a must for both Prince fans and casual listeners.

In episode 102 of Planet LP, host Ted Asregadoo is joined by Popdose founder Jeff Giles for a special Single Play episode.

Get ready to expand your playlist and discover hidden gems from legendary artists like The Clash and concept project, Largo -- alongside impressive new music from As For The Future and Cold Specks. But this episode is more than just a "you should listen to this song" episode. Jeff and Ted jump into the deep end of the cultural pool to talk about the challenges of discovering new music in an era when we're offered an endless buffet of musical delights for very little money and effort. The result of all this abundance is a cheapening of the arts to the point where one artist featured (Cold Specks) is currently unhoused.

Speaking of the arts, Jeff Giles has a new novel! Langley Powell and the Society for the Defense of the Mundane published by Humorist Books is the story of a man who spent his life debunking the supernatural and magic only to be killed by a falling piano -- and discover, much to his annoyance, that he is a ghost.