Dig Me Out: 90s & 00s Rock

Our requested review this week is unique - an album released exclusively with a comic book - we check out Absolute Zero by Null, packaged in December 1994 with the comic book Blank: The Encephalon Void #1. Since there is a good chance you haven’t heard this, we decided to go track-by-track through this album, which varied in styles and sounds from Ministry and Nine Inch Nails to Helmet and Queensryche, and lead us into a discussion about the current state and future of comic books in the digital format. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Severance3:27 - History of the Band8:29 - Terminal15:28 - Numb20:50 - Skarred24:51 - Driven31:27 - Critical MassOutro - Rain Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

For our March Round Table Discussion, we're joined by Chip Midnight of Kids Interview Bands, Tom Mullen of the Washed Up Emo, and Louise Post of Veruca Salt to talk about bands reuniting. Louis fills us on how how the band got back together, how the new songs for their Record Store Day seven inch came to be, and plans for a full length album in 2015. We also discuss the break-up of the band and how families and maturity change band dynamics. in addition, we go round the table and discuss whether or not it's necessary for new bands to even put out new material, or if shows are enough, and is it important to have original members back in the band. We also dig into bands if some bands appear to be more interested in the festival paycheck than reuniting for more artistic reasons, what bands reunited that none of us expected, which reunions exceeded expectations and which were let downs, and what bands do we really, really wish would reunite, but probably won't. It's a big show you don't want to miss. Songs in this Episode: Intro - It's Holy by Veruca Salt11:01 - The Museum of Broken Relationships by Veruca Salt18:36 - Son of Three by The Breeders21:07 - Matamoros by The Afghan Whigs42:52 - Almost Ready by Dinosaur Jr.Outro - Surface Envy by Sleater-Kinney Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week's Requested Review is the fourth and final album by Cop Shoot Cop, 1994's Release. Neither of us knew what to expect, and our preconceived notions based on the album cover were quickly dashed as this hard-to-categorize two-bass, drum, minimalist guitar, vocal and occasional piano, horns and harmonica band took us on a interesting ride through post-punk, industrial and straight-up rock conventions. Songs in the Episode: Intro - Interference2:21 - History of the Band8:20 - It Only Hurts When I Breathe12:03 - Any Day Now14:34 - Suckerpunch21:43 - LullabyOutro - Turning Inside Out Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Joining us this week is John Davis of Superdrag and The Lees of Memory. We discuss how The Lees of Memory formed, writing and recording the debut Sisyphus Says released last year, and plans for touring and the second album due out later in 2015. John tells us about his musical up bringing, getting his first guitar, playing in a variety of real and imagined bands, before hooking up with the guys who would form Superdrag. From there, we discuss the pros and cons of working with a major label in the 1990s, how age can alter the perception of lyrics written over a decade ago, the importance of publishing in keeping a band together, and we get an impromptu drum solo from a young member of the Davis clan. John also explains his decision to (temporarily) put the Superdrag name to rest and record as a solo artist, then front Epic Ditch before taking Superdrag for one last spin. Songs in this Episode: Intro - We Are Siamese by The Lees of Memory4:36 - Deliquesce by The Lees of Memory28:26 - Pine Away by Superdrag43:51 - Bankrupt Vibration by Superdrag1:06:19 - Drag Me Closer To You by Superdrag1:16:58 - I Hear Your Voice by John Davis1:28:52 - Singular Form by Epic DitchOutro - Little Fallen Star Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Thanks to a Requested Review, we're able to continue our Britpop month with Mansun and their debut released from 1997, Attack of the Grey Lantern. We (re)discover the perils of trying to review a record released with different versions for the US and UK on various streaming platforms, and not communicating about it before the review. Still, we managed to form some coherent thoughts about a band that draws as much from their nearby Britpop influences as American bands from decades earlier. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Take It Easy, Chicken5:07 - History of the Band10:32 - Stripper Vicar16:05 - Wide Open Space22:46 - The Chad Who Loved Me / Millennium (Robbie Williams)Outro - Taxloss Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

For our Britpop round table, we're joined by returning guests Neal Schmitt and Andy Derer, as well as newbie Jim Kopeny. We talk about how we discovered Britpop and our favorite bands and albums of the era, discuss the effect of "Noelrock" and Wonderwall on the second wave of Britpop bands, and legacy Britpop left behind. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Connection by Elastica3:54 - When & Where We Discovered Britpop11:02 - Albums That Have Stood The Test of Time and Haven't11:51 - King of the Kerb by Echobelly16:36 - Are The Verve Britpop/What Makes the Britpop Sound?24:14 - A Design For Life by Manic Street Preachers30:36 - "Noelrock" and the Wonderwall Effect35:57 - One-Hit Wonders36:59 - Hey Dude by Kula Shaker43:01 - Discussion on Pulp52:49 - Legacy of Britpop/Post-BritpopOutro - Pick A Part That's New by Stereophonics Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week's Requested Review kicks off our Britpop month with one of the Godfather's of the sound, Morrissey, and his 1992 album Your Arsenal. While Morrissey's partnership with Johnny Marr in The Smiths produced legendary results, his output as a solo artists hasn't been nearly as consistent or compelling. With a new band for this album, do they match the lyrical aspirations of Morrissey? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Glamorous Glue3:44 - History of the Band11:47 - You're Gonna Need Someone On Your Side15:16 - We Hate It When Our Friends Become Successful17:57 - Certain People I Know20:18 - Glamorous Glue26:42 - The National Front DiscoOutro - We'll Let You Know Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Joining us this week is Kellii Scott of the recently reunited Failure, who will release their first new (and fourth overall) album this Spring (most likely May). Kellii takes us through his drumming history, starting out listening to AC/DC and Rush records while staring at KISS Alive artwork, through his move to Los Angeles and starting out with Liquid Jesus before joining Failure. He shares the story of how he joined Failure (and almost blew it), through the making of Fantastic Planet to the demise of the band, as well as his post Failure gigs playing with Blinker the Star and Veruca Salt, as well as a drumming for Linda Perry, up to the writing and recording of the as-yet-untitled album (we tried to get it out of him!) in progress. How are Failure songs written? Is Fantastic Planet a concept album? What was the catalyst for the band reuniting? Can a band with "mystique" survive in the social media world? We answer all these questions and many more. Note: the sound quality is a little bumpy for the first six or so minutes thanks to a choppy phone connection, but clears up after that. Songs in this Episode: Intro - The Focus by Failure9:52 - The Colourful Ones by Liquid Jesus25:46 - Let It Drip (Demo) by Failure37:03 - Heliotropic by Failure56:49 - Enjoy The Silent (Depeche Mode cover) by Failure1:09:44 - Lift Me Up by Christina Aguilera1:15:17 - So Weird by Veruca SaltOutro - Come Crashing by Failure Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Our Requested Review for this week is Blues for the Red Sun by Kyuss from 1992. Desert rock, stoner rock, metal - whatever you call it, it's heavy, and their sound has influenced bands like Mastodon, Baroness and many more for over twenty years. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Green Machine6:54 - History of the Band20:32 - Molten Universe26:30 - Freedom Run29:13 - Writhe35:20 - Thong SongOutro - Allen's Wrench Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week, we tread new water with our first round table discussion. Joining us are Aaron Perrino of The Sheila Divine and Chip Midnight of Kids Interview Bands to revisit the albums of 1995. First we dive into our favorites from 1995 that still stand the test of time before heading in the other direction, albums that we used to love, but not so much anymore. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Fig Dish - Bury Me3:33 - The Abbreviated History of 1990s Music6:45 - Favorite Albums from 199529:16 - Foo Fighters discussion31:07 - Not So Favorite Albums from 199543:10 - Neil Young discussion49:59 - White Zombie discussionOutro - Red Hot Chili Peppers - Aeroplane Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Our first review of 2015 is a request to check out the 1993 album Hi-Fi Sci-Fi by Dramarama. Best known for their mid-eighties single "Anything, Anything," Hi-Fi Sci-Fi was the last recording from the band for over a decade. The sound is more refined from their earlier recordings, and incorporates a wide range of influences into their brand of rock that borders on pop punk one minute and Stones-y ballads the next. The album didn't make much of a dent commercially in '93, does it deserve a second listen? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Shadowless Heart4:08 - Anything, Anything5:47 - History of the Band12:46 - Work for Food15:05 - Senseless Fun22:05 - Prayer29:35 - Bad SeedOutro - Right On Baby, Baby Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week, we wrap up 2014 and our fourth season of Dig Me Out out with a list of our five favorite new tunes we discovered, as well as our favorite album of the year. We've got big news about our bigger and better 2015 season, and at the end, we give away our second Requested Review thank you prize. Thanks to everyone who made our fourth year great - our listeners, our guests, our donators - here's to an even better 2015! Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

We wrap up our reviews for 2014 with a Requested Review of the Longpigs, and their 1996 debut album The Sun Is Often Out. Smack dab in the middle of Britpop hysteria, Longpigs deliver an album that finds itself somewhere between the very British Suede and Pulp, while also nodding to bigger idea bands like Radiohead and Blur, while still maintaining a unique approach thanks to the guitar work of Richard Hawley. But is that enough? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - She Said3:13 - On And On5:23 - History of the Band15:34 - Elvis19:38 - Lost Myself25:19 - Over Our Bodies29:02 - Jesus ChristOutro - Dozen Wicked Words Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

We're back with another Requested Review, and this week we're checking out the 1997 album Gone by Sydney, Australia's Beasts of Bourbon. With a career spanning over thirty years, BOB's output has been relatively small at only six full-length albums, but their influence, as well as the bands connected to BOB, has been felt world wide. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Saturated3:23 - History of the Band10:32 - Makem Cry14:18 - Saturated16:09 - I Suppose20:11 - Get OnOutro - So Long Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week we take on Columbus, Ohio punk rock legends the New Bomb Turks. While Green Day, The Offspring and Rancid were tacking punk rock to the mainstream, bands like the Turks forged a louder, more aggressive path along side Rock From The Crypt, influencing the sounds of The Hives and Hellacopters with their Chuck Berry and Rolling Stones riffage on overdrive. Their 1996 album Scared Straight finds the band in new territory, going beyond the vocal, guitar, bass and drum set-up. Does it work? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Hammerless Nail4:24 - History of the Band9:15 - Hammerless Nail14:31 - Professional Againster15:49 - Wrest Your Hands23:16 - Bachelor's HighOutro - Jukebox Lean Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week we revisit the 1992 sophomore album The Lizard by Saigon Kick. With sounds the recall a diverse group of bands such as Alice in Chains, Ozzy Osbourne, King's X and even the Beatles, The Lizard is a confusing journey the produces some very high highs and some very low lows. Is it an album worth checking out? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Hostile Youth2:58 - Love Is On The Way5:28 - History of the Band11:51 - God of 42nd Street13:26 - All I Want19:27 - Peppermint Tribe21:47 - All AlrightOutro - Freedom Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Joining us this week is Clay Tarver, guitarist of Chavez, to talk about the history of the band and their two releases for Matador Records, 1995's Gone Glimmering and 1996's Ride The Fader. We go deep into the past, present and future of the band, dig into their connection to Ohio via Guided By Voices and the New Bomb Turks, explore the development of the Chavez sound, how Zwan uncovered an unknown Chavez fanbase, discuss the possibility of a new Chavez album, and much, much more. And that's not the half of it, as we revisit his time pre-Chavez in Bullet LaVolta, how college roommate Donal Logue lead him to J.J. Abrams and a career in screenwriting, and working with Mike Judge on the HBO show Silicon Valley. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Break Up You Band6:54 - Cold Joys24:25 - Repeat The Ending36:58 - You Faded40:10 - Peeled Out Too Late43:53 - Break Up Your Band52:33 - The Ghost By The Sea56:48 - Flight '961:33:57 - Wakeman's AirOutro - Top Pocket Man Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week Bill Janovitz of Buffalo Tom joins us for an in-depth discuss about their 1993 album Big Red Letter Day. We cover a wide range of topics that include: writing, recording and touring the album, what happens when special visitors like Gene Simmons and David Lynch stop by your recording sessions with the legendary Robb Brothers, incorporating influences from bands like The Who and Rolling Stones, making videos, guitar rig set-ups, the band history, how My So-Called Life changed fan demographics, and much much more. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Tree House29:29 - Tree House34:19 - Suppose45:52 - I'm Allowed1:06:35 - Would Not Be Denied1:12:05 - Late At NightOutro - Sodajerk Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Big numbers call for big celebrations, and with Dig Me Out hitting episode #200, we thought it was time to tackle a big record. Nevermind? Ten? Badmotorfinger? Siamese Dream? To predicable! Like Guns n' Roses, we decided to go the biggest of the big and tackle the ambitious double album of the decade Billy Corgan wasn't a part of, the one-two punch of 1991's Use Your Illusion 1 & 2. To help us tackle this behemoth, Chip Midnight stops by to help us breakdown these 30(!) songs. Songs in this Episode: Intro - You Could Be Mine19:06 - Live and Let Die29:45 - Perfect Crime39:49 - Dust N' Bones1:02:14 - Civil WarOutro - Don't Cry Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

#199: American Grafishy by Flipper This week we take on the only 90s release by the legendary band Flipper, their 1993 album American Grafishy. The anti-punk punk band, who traded high speed riffing for Sabbath-induced sludge, show why they encountered as much adoration as scorn with their five plus minute long dirges. Was it worth the nine year wait between albums? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Telephone3:57 - History of the Band12:34 - Flipper Twist18:34 - We're Not Crazy25:07 - SomedayOutro - Exist of Else Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week we revisit the 1992 debut album Shot Forth Self Living by Medicine. Combining waves of distortion and breathy vocals, Medicine has been called the American My Bloody Valentine. Are they worthy of comparison to such a legendary band? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Miss Drugstore3:19 - History of the Band10:33 - Defective15:25 - A Short Happy Life20:36 - Sweet ExplosionOutro - Aruca Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week we're revisiting the 1995 debut solo release Psychic Hearts by former Sonic Youth frontman/guitarist Thurston Moore. With a new solo album just released, it's the perfect time to check out Moore's first solo outing, with the inevitable comparisons to his (then) full-time gig in Sonic Youth. Shorter, stripped down and condensed songs dominate the album, but is the lack of experimentation a blessing or a curse? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Psychic Hearts5:22 - History of the Band15:37 - Patti Smith Math Scratch19:17 - Ono Soul21:40 - Tranquilizers25:53 - Queen Bee and Her Pals29:48 - Staring Statues32:01 - Cindy (Rotten Tanx)49:45 - Pretty Bad Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

The Melvins have a new album out, so it's the perfect time to revisit their 1994 release Stoner Witch. With their combination of metal, psyche and punk, Melvins have carved out a loyal fan base of their brand of "sludge metal." Stoner Witch is the second of their three albums on a major label, but the that doesn't make them any less metal, psyche or punk, as the band turns in some of the most exciting music in their history. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Queen6:59 - History of the Band9:25 - Sweet Willy Rollbar15:55 - Roadbull20:30 - Revolve24:06 - Goose Freight TrainOutro - At The Stake Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

With a new solo album released by Johnny Marr, we decided to check out his post-Smiths band Electronic along with Bernard Sumner of New Order and their third album from 1999, Twisted Tenderness. Steeped in the dance electronic music of the 1990s, Sumner and Marr each bring their respective sounds to the band. While this frees Sumner to explore more pop melodies, Marr can occasionally get lost in the layers of loops and synths. Is Electronic a successful collaboration? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Make It Happen 8:06 - History of the Band 14:14 - Like No Other 16:33 - Twisted Tenderness 22:24 - Can't Find My Way Home 26:23 - Haze 28:49 - Vivid Outro - Prodigal Son Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

With a new Living Colour on the horizon, you figure now would be a good time to revisit a 90s Living Colour release. But we take a detour, and dig deep for the debut solo release by Living Colour frontman Corey Glover, and his 1998 album Hymns. Steeped in r&b and soul, this record finds Glover exploring Steve Wonder, Al Green and Sly Stone territory, while injecting it with some rock 'n roll swagger. Carving out original sounds while paying homage to those legendary artists, the record wobbles between original and familiar. Does it work as a whole? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Do You First Then Do Myself5:34 - History of the Band10:32 - Things Are Getting In The Way13:34 - Sermon18:55 - Silence24:16 - Lowball Express29:10 - Little GirlOutro - One Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Shellac have a new record out, so we're revisiting their debut release from 1994, At Action Park. Abrasive and metallic, Shellac are the post-punk grinding underbelly of the 90s alternative explosion thanks to producer/guitarist/singer Steve Albini. We dissect the record, and then chat about the recent U2 release through iTunes. Songs in this Episode: Intro - My Black Ass4:19 - History of the Band10:30 - My Black Ass19:31 - Song of the Minerals21:48 - A Minute24:00 - Dog and Pony Show27:21 - Pull the CupOutro - The Idea of North Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Ex-Soul Coughing frontman Mike Doughty has a new solo record out, so we decided to revisit his former band's first release, 1994's Ruby Vroom. One of us rated this a worthy album, and one of gave it a decent single, so it's fair to say we don't see eye to eye on this album. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Bus to Beelzebub4:22 - History of the Band15:20 - Casiotone Nation19:34 - True Dreams of Wichita23:42 - Is Chicago, Is Not Chicago/I Wish31:03 - City of MotorsOutro - Screenwriter's Blues Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

With a new solo album about to be released, we decided to revisit where it all started for Ryan Adams with the 1995 debut release Faithless Street from his band Whiskeytown. Steeped in the alternative country that rose to prominence thanks to bands like Uncle Tupelo and The Jayhawks, there is plenty to like about a band forging its own path while still staying ground in traditional country rhythms and themes. Our discussion is occasionally derailed by Ryan Adams "the personality" as much as the singer and songwriter, and the end result is clashing viewpoints on this record. One of thought this was worthy album start to finish. Who didn't. Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Drank Like a River8:00 - History of the Band16:06 - Drank Like a River18:51 - Too Drunk to Dream21:06 - Matrimony29:12 - RevengeOutro - If He Can't Have You Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

We travel back to 1995 to revisit the debut album Subliminal Plastic Motives by Self. Chock full of production goodness, S.P.M. is a dense, inventive record with a power pop heart, which is both a plus and minus. Self aren't afraid to mix-up genres, sometimes within a single song, but is there too much of a good thing? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Borateen4:19 - Cannon5:19 - History of the Band16:17 - Marathon Shirt20:11 - Sophomore Jinx25:20 - Lucid AnneOutro - Stewardess Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

The Rentals have a new album out, so it's the perfect time to revisit their debut album from 1995, Return of The Rentals. The band scored a minor hit with Friend of P, and this debut is full of even more radio-friendly singles, but can the keep the vocal and musical hooks flowing throughout the record with the analog synth, fuzz bass and boy/girl vocal set-up? Tune in to find out, and to hear Jason go on a interface design rant you may or may not want to miss. Songs in this Episode: Intro - My Summer Girl 3:04 - Friends of P 5:51 - History of the Band 13:46 - Waiting 18:25 - Brilliant Boy 21:47 - Naive 26:32 - Please Let That Be You Outro - The Love I'm Searching For Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

With a new album out soon and twenty years since their sophomore release Twice Removed, we thought now was a good time to head north of the border and investigate Sloan. We dive into the four-singer/songwriter band, try to figure out if this is the best Canadian album of all time, or even the best by the band, and end up trying to figure out the best decade for Canadian rock 'n roll. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Deeper Than Beauty3:41 - Money City Maniacs5:14 - History of the Band16:22 - Snowsuit Sound19:12 - People of the Sky21:21 - Coax Me/Go Your Own Way27:25 - Bells On30:28 - I Can Feel ItOutro - Worried Now Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Along with Guided By Voices, Sebadoh flew the lo-fi flag in the 90s with a similar gift for short, punchy rock songs. We revisit their 1994 release Bakesale, and dive into a discussion on the two-singer/songwriter band set-up. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Magnet's Coil 2:49 - Rebound 4:29 - History of the Band 14:57 - License to Confuse 17:22 - Skull 20:54 - Temptation Ride 23:26 - Not Too Amused 28:55 - Give Up Outro - Dreams Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week we revisit the 1994 release Second Coming by The Stone Roses. Joining us to dissect this divisive sophomore release is old friend and music professor Neal Schmitt, who provides a deep knowledge of band and provides insight into the recording technology that went into an album that sounds before it's time while borrowing heavily from earlier influences. That leads us into an extended discussion of other 90s bands and artists who either surpassed expectations on their second albums, or sank like the proverbial stone. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Driving South4:07 - Love Spreads6:41 - History of the Band15:52 - Breaking Into Heaven22:06 - Driving South29:50 - Begging You35:09 - Love Is The Law (The Seahorses)Outro - Ten Storey Love Song Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Thanks to another Requested Review, for the second time in as many weeks, we're tackling another overlooked gem from an Australia This week, it's Bluebottle Kiss, and their 1999 album Patient. Combining a variety of tasty guitar tones, a tight and original rhythm section, and interesting melodies, Patient is truly a start to finish album. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Smoother It In Honey2:24 - History of the Band6:19 - Return to the City of Folded Arms11:24 - Six Wheels24:21 - Girl GeniusOutro - Give Up The Ghost Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

We're heading back to Australia for this week's Requested Review and checking out the 1994 album The Plastic Hassle by Ripe. Lots of shoegaze influenced bands spent less time on vocals and melody than dialing in the perfect tremolo and delay settings on their guitar pedals, but not Ripe, who manage to craft to genuinely catchy melodies and memorable lyrics. And like those same bands, Ripe aren't afraid to stretch the songs into a variety of territories, whether it's acoustic ballads or minor key dirges. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Mother Tongue3:49 - History of the Band9:23 - Something Fierce16:29 - Centre of the Universe27:34 - Get Your Shit TogetherOutro - Daylight Wants to Kill Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week Jason dug through his cd stacks picked an album having no recollection what it sounded like - I Mother Earth's 1993 debut release Dig. Sometime that leads to a welcome surprise, and other times reminds you why you stopped listening. I Mother Earth hits a lot of our sweet spots - big guitar and drums, crisp production, slight progressive elements - but also manages to work in some mutual annoyances - slap bass and long jams. So which side prevails? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Production6:49 - History of the Band23:10 - Not Quite Sonic31:15 - Rain Will Fall44:57 - The Universe in YouOutro - The Universe in You Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

To celebrate the release of a new album by one of our favorite bands, we decided to travel back twenty years in their catalog and tackle the most challenging album of their career - 1994's The Holy Bible by the Manic Street Preachers. To help us dissect this dense masterpiece, we've enlisted the help of fellow stateside Manic's aficionado and previous guest Andy Derer of The Andy Derer Show. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Revol19:07 - Yes34:10 - Of Walking Abortion50:47 - 4st 7lb1:09:44 - P.C.P.Outro - Faster Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week we're joined by producer/musician Steve Fisk, best known as one-half of the duo known as Pigeonhed, but also behind the board for such bands as Unwound, the Screaming Trees, Soul Coughing, Soundgarden, the Geraldine Fibbers and Nirvana. Steve talks about his history with recording and electronic music, the challenges of producing in the modern era compared to the 80s and 90s, his collaboration with Shawn Smith, who comes knocking on your door when you work with a successful artist, and much more. Songs in this Episode Intro - Rollin' Through Oakland (Pigeonhed)9:00 - You Doo Right by (Geraldine Fibbers)23:11 - Ain't It So (Pigeonhed)35:14 - Battleflag (Pigeonhed remixed by Lo Fidelity Allstars)Outro - My Head Popped (Steve Fisk) Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week's album, the 1995 debut Prize by Wanderlust, begs a lot of questions? Can the youth appreciate power pop? Can music be too good for radio? And how did Collective Soul manage to pump out six singles from their second album? We dig deep through the depths of Wanderlust, take a few detours, and arrive a sorely overlooked and appreciated gem. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Wanna Feel New2:37 - History of the Band9:20 - Flash and Shadow14:05 - Coffee in the Kitchen20:00 - PrizeOutro - Before We Fade Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Our requested review for this week takes us back to the UK to check out the 1997 self-titled debut album from Silver Sun. Hooks, harmonies and loud guitars sum up Silver Sun's freshman release, and it's chock full of them. Song after song is a sugar sweet power pop attack, with nods to Cheap Trick, Jellyfish, The Beatles, Beach Boys and more. But is it too much of a good thing? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Service3:19 - History of the Band12:55 - Bad Haircut17:08 - Animals Feet22:03 - Dumb26:36 - LavaOutro - Julia Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Our latest requested review requires us to ask a question - when is it showing your influences, and when is it ripping them off entirely? On their one and only release, the 1998 self-titled album by The Din Pedals walk the precarious line between the two, thanks to lead singer James Grundler's Thom York-like tenor, and a band that easily recreates the dramatic bombast and minor chord melancholy of Radiohead, U2 and Our Lady Peace. Songs in this Episode Intro - Downtown Sister3:41 - History of the Band9:52 - Naked is Foreign16:25 - Aliens22:52 - Waterfall26:15 - AshtrayOutro - Emotional Drugs Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

What's a good way for an otherwise musically incompatible band to find an audience in the 1990s? Enlist the most popular country artist, several popular alternative bands, a few respected metal bands, and for the hell of it, and Japanese artist, to cover your songs. That's exactly what KISS did for the 1994 tribute album Kiss My Ass - Classic KISS Regrooved. We dive into the songs, and reasoning behind this not-so-easy to digest compilation existing in the first place. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Plaster Caster 25:30 - Hard Luck Woman 37:37 - Rock and Roll All Nite 46:10 - Goin' Blind 58:18 - Detroit Rock City Outro - She Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week we tackle one of those on the edge of Britpop bands we always kinda, sorta heard about and kinda, sorta remember, The Auteurs, and their 1994 sophomore album Now, I'm a Cowboy. The lead track and single, Lenny Valentino, gets rave reviews from both of us, but how does the rest of the not-so-similar album stack up? Tune int to find out, and chime in on our discussion on how music discovery and commitment to ill-advised purchases has changed thanks to the web. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Life Class/Life Model3:57 - History of the Band8:45 - Lenny Valentino14:16 - Underground Movies21:10 - The Upper Classes26:02 - New French GirlfriendOutro - Daughter of a Child Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Friend of the show Gavin provides another requested review from down under, this time it's the 1993 self-titled debut album by Front End Loader, who describe themselves as Australia's "least popular, relatively well-known band." FEL perfectly encapsulate the odd and uneasy transition of 80s metal and punk into 90s alternative, jumping from Metallica-influenced thrash to moodier grunge sounds. Does FEL succeed? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Fucking Great3:48 - History of the Band10:27 - My Side12:26 - I.G.18:37 - Me To Know26:10 - All Star JamOutro - 'fraid Not Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Thanks to our most recent Requested Review, we're tackling the sophomore release by Dallas, Texas power-pop quartet Bobgoblin, 1997's The 12 Point Master Plan. Big guitars and big hooks make the Bobgoblin sound, but they've got to some hidden tricks up their sleeves thanks to a nimble rhythm section and tastefully used synths. Is The 12 Point Master Plan the best album you haven't heard? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Climb3:02 - History of the Band7:56 - One Down, One Across10:50 - Standing Up (to the Voice of America)17:36 - Close Your Eyes, KidOutro - Nine Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Thanks to a listener, this week we're checking out the 1999 debut album Three Hundred by The Stereo. Big hooks and loud guitars dominate this pop-punk record, with an occasional piano detour to mix things up. It was the right sound released at the right time, so why isn't The Stereo mentioned along side early 2000's successes like Fall Out Boy and New Found Glory - was it merely the public overlooking a hidden gem, or is this worth passing up? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - She Would Never4:52 - History of the Band14:48 - Ramona21:20 - DevotionOutro - Divine Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

This week's request review takes us to the unexplored world of Mars Accelerator, and their sophomore release from 1998, Frankfurt: Telephonics. Exploring the mathematical side of indie rock, Mars Accelerator aren't afraid to incorporate long sections of noise and dissonance paired with Built To Spill and Polvo-esque guitar riffage. Frankfurt: Telephonics is an interesting album, but is it for everyone? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Starlxt2:17 - History of the Band10:30 - Spites Are Looming14:13 - Zeroes And Ones17:08 - 1040 mOutro - Id Et Mien Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

We're back with another listener review, this week week exploring the quirky power-pop of The Sugarplastic on their sophomore 1996 release, Band The Earth Is Round. The Sugarplastic combine the twisted pop of XTC and the Pixies with clear Beatles influence, occasionally detouring into They Might Be Giants and Presidents of the United States goofy-pop territory. The album works in places, but does it make for a cohesive listen? Tune in to find out.Songs in this Episode: Intro - Another Myself 2:35 - History of the Band 11:37 - Another Myself 16:29 - Polly Brown 19:04 - Sheep Outro - Transworld Modal Operator Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

Grab a beverage, find a comfortable seat, or hop in the car for a road trip, because this is a long one. We take in an in-depth look at the history of one our favorite bands, The Afghan Whigs, with special guest Lee Heidel, proprietor of SummerKiss.com, the longest running and most comprehensive Afghan Whigs, Twilight Singers, Gutter Twins and all-things Greg Dulli website on the planet. Then, we go off into uncharted territory and review a new album! Do To The Beast is the first Afghan Whigs album in sixteen years, but did the beast slay our expectations? The results may shock you, tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - Gentlemen 15:27 - Retarded 21:47 - Come See About Me 35:05 - Stage Banter/Never Take The Place of Your Man 42:33 - 66 1:06:23 - Matamoros 1:17:16 - Algiers 1:47:30 - Royal Cream 1:55:42 - These Sticks Outro - Miles Iz Dead Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt

We're back again to Australian for this week's requested review - the 1998 album Play With Love by Crow. Dark and ominous, with comparison to Girls Against Boys and Nick Cave, Crow shift gears throughout the album, from an industrial grind one track to a samba swing on the next - a dangerous combination in the wrong hands. Does Crow have what it takes to pull it off? Tune in to find out. Songs in this Episode: Intro - A Broken Machine4:49 - History of the Band13:03 - Hate Need16:55 - Swollen Venus21:27 - Bobby PinOutro - Press On Let Go Follow on Twitter / Facebook Request A Review / Buy A T-Shirt