Bandsplain is a show where host Yasi Salek invites experts to explain cult bands and iconic artists - and why people love them - using a curated playlist to help you understand the hype.Â
The Bandsplain podcast is a true gem for music lovers. It is smart, informative, and nostalgic, offering in-depth research and insightful discussions about some of the greatest bands in history. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just discovering a band for the first time, this podcast will ignite your passion for music and leave you wanting more.
One of the best aspects of The Bandsplain podcast is the extensive research that goes into each episode. Host Yasi delves deep into the band's history, discography, and cultural impact, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of their favorite artists. This attention to detail not only showcases Yasi's dedication but also allows listeners to gain new perspectives and appreciation for the music they love.
Another highlight of this podcast is the choice of guests. While Yasi herself brings immense knowledge and enthusiasm to each episode, her guests add an extra layer of insight and diversity. Some guests are brilliant, offering unique perspectives and personal experiences with the bands being discussed. These episodes stand out as particularly engaging and enriching.
However, not every guest on The Bandsplain podcast hits the mark. In some episodes, the guests can be underwhelming or off-putting. Their contributions may lack depth or fail to add anything substantial to the conversation. These episodes can be a disappointment compared to others where both Yasi and her guest shine brightly.
In conclusion, The Bandsplain podcast is an incredible gift for music enthusiasts. Through meticulous research and passionate storytelling, Yasi brings bands to life in a way that reignites love for old favorites and introduces listeners to new musical adventures. While there may be occasional missteps with certain guests, overall this podcast provides an unforgettable journey through music history that is both entertaining and enlightening. Highly recommended!
Boots on the ground from Notting Hill, Yasi unpacks the inimitable Elastica with music journalist Miranda Sawyer. Thanks to their angular, concise music, incredible style, and unapologetic live chops, they seized charts and stages on both sides of the Atlantic in their short but mighty tenure as a band. Miranda puts it best: “Elastica were everyone's favorite.” CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Miranda Sawyer @msmirandasawyer Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This week, Yasi is joined by Scottish musician and Mogwai frontman Stuart Braithwaite to talk about one of the coolest and most influential bands of all time - The Jesus and Mary Chain. From the chaotic genius of Psychocandy to the velvet-gloved menace of Darklands and through their break up, and make up, JAMC never made a bad album and we posit that most of your favorite bands would never have existed without them. SKIP AHEAD: 47:58 – First live gig 01:35:13 – Psychocandy (1985) 02:18:52 – Darklands (1987) 03:20:58 – Stoned and Dethroned (1994) EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to the songs we talk about HERE. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Stuart Braithwaite IG: @plasmatron and Mogwai Official Site Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Giving new meaning to “this song f*cks,” Super Furry Animals' 1996 single “The Man Don't Give a Fuck” is a psychedelic protest anthem built on a looped Steely Dan sample, fifty f-bombs, and a whole lot of righteous chaos. In this episode, Yasi is once again joined by Scotswoman and known Super Furry Animals mega fan, Chloë Walsh, to make the case for this song's perfection (with a bunch of band lore and Welsh history shoehorned in, of course). From its origins as a B-side protest against the UK's Criminal Justice Act to its transformation into a ravey, 23-minute-long fan favorite gig-closer — “The Man Don't Give a Fuck” isn't just a song, it's a statement. A tanked-up, freaked-out, absolutely uncompromising statement. Let the sample loop. Let the synths soar. The man still don't give a f*ck. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek Guests: Chlöe Walsh Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
So you wanna live like the Common People do? It's time for part two of the Pulp story in which Yasi and music journalist and Pulpologist Siân Pattenden start back up at the peak of Britpop, tracing how “the great interlopers” of the genre captured the spirit and sound of the time with Different Class, and then soundtracked the comedown with This Is Hardcore — Britpop's bleary-eyed hangover (or maybe - a conversation with god???). Then it's into the Weeds: a retreat from fame into nature, the album We Love Life, and the band's 2000s revival and first new song in over a decade. EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to the songs we talk about HERE. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Siân Pattenden IG: @sian_superman Twitter: @sian_superman Website: Sian Pattenden Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In today's episode, we trace Pulp's story, starting from high school talent show stars up through the moment they become Britpop major players. Yasi is joined by British music journalist, author, and former Good Mixer regular Siân Pattenden to help red string board the many iterations of Pulp from 1978 through the moment it really clicked with His N Hers in 1994. EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to the songs we talk about HERE. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Siân Pattenden IG: @sian_superman Twitter: @sian_superman Website: Sian Pattenden Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Today we're talking about a band who managed to change their sound every single album while still staying absolutely, totally, and utterly themselves: Primal Scream. Bobby Gillespie and co started in the 80s but they most meaningfully bookended the 90s with their two most notable albums – from the hopeful optimism and upbeat acid house that started the decade in Screamadelica to the dark, caustic grit and gunmetal sounds that embodied the end of the dream on XTRMNTR. Join Yasi and guest Chris Ryan as they chart the history and discography of one the most unique bands of our time, Primal Scream. EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to the songs we talk about HERE CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Chris Ryan IG: @crashactivated Twitter: @ChrisRyan77 // Listen to the The Watch Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
We all know the vibe of Radiohead's iconic 1997 album OK Computer: paranoia, anxiety, isolation. There are several bangers scattered throughout, like Karma Police and No Surprises. But which song feels the most perfect? Cole Cuchna of Dissect joins Yasi to break down his choice, rooted in musical technicality and evocative artistic expression. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Cole Cuchna @turangalila_ host of Dissect Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In the last episode, we were Introducing the Band and exploring the question: did Suede kickstart Britpop? This episode, Yasi keeps making her case alongside longtime British music journalist Miranda Sawyer. Listen along as they unpack the band's imperial phase at the height of the Britpop era — from Dog Man Star (1994) to their dispirited split, until they eventually decide to Stay Together. EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to the songs we talk about HERE. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Miranda Sawyer @msmirandasawyer Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This season, we've covered two of the biggest bands in Britpop, but did Oasis and Blur actually kickstart the genre? With the release of their first two singles in the early 90s, Suede may have lit the very fuse. In this episode, Yasi and Miranda Sawyer, British music journalist and author of Uncommon People: Britpop and Beyond in 20 Songs talk about how Suede – including Justine Frischmann – came together and unintentionally created the genre by, according to frontman Brett Anderson, “trying to play songs about little twisted English lives to rooms full of people obsessed with Pearl Jam.” Listen along, and just maybe Suede – and Brett's slutty little blouses – will open your ears to British music. EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to the songs we talk about HERE. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Miranda Sawyer @msmirandasawyer Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This episode, we've asked our podfather Rob Harvilla to pick his perfect 90s British Rock song: “A Girl Like You” by Edwyn Collins. Listen along as Yasi and Rob cover the birth of indie pop, Edwyn Collins' Orange Juice days, and his earlier solo career, right up to the release of his third album Gorgeous George as well as the Empire Records soundtrack, which helped launch this song into the rock stratosphere. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Rob Harvilla @robharvilla Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Yasi is joined by Big Picture host Sean Fennessey to talk abou music biopics, specifically diving into two films that deal with key figures in the British music landscape, Tony Wilson of Factory Records in 24 Hour Party People (2002), and Alan McGee of Creation Records in Creation Stories (2021). CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Sean Fennessey IG: @seanfennessey, X: @SeanFennessey Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Everyone knows the hit track “There She Goes,” a song that sounds like it has always existed and emerged into the world fully formed by the hand of God. Liverpudlian band The La's made that perfect song, and according to the many musicians it influenced, including Oasis' Liam Gallagher or our guest, Ben Gibbard of Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service, a nearly perfect album, and then basically never put anything out again. Join Yasi and Ben as they talk about one of the most interesting, mysterious, and secretly influential bands from the UK. EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to the songs we talk about HERE CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Ben Gibbard Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
We're back and we're answering your questions about the show, like how does Yasi choose which bands to cover? Which British bands ruled their respective eras? And when did Britpop officially die? Join along as Yasi and bestie of the pod, Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders, sip Yorkshire tea and open your gorgeous emails. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Matt Helders @matthelders Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Hi, we have a lot to talk about. Yasi shares how she's been, and appreciates everyone's kind words and gifts.
An update on Yasi and the show. Thank you everyone for your support and kind words. Give to the GoFundMe HERE For other ways to give or support, visit https://www.fireaid.info/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Normally, on this podcast, we tend to focus on music that was released decades in the past. In this episode, we're going to do a rare thing and focus on music of the present day. Listen along as Yasi chats with The Ringer's Rob Harvilla and Justin Sayles about their five *favourite* albums and top single of the year. EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE **NOTE: Cindy Lee's Diamond Jubilee is not available on Spotify. You can listen here on Bandcamp.** CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guests: Rob Harvilla @robharvilla and Justin Sayles Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
You can have it all, but how much do you want it, babe? Once again, we slip inside the eye of Oasis' mind for part two. Last episode, Yasi and Rob Harvilla talked about the band's formation, their debut album Definitely Maybe, and the lead-up to the 1995 Britpop chart battle. Who wins the battle? Who wins the war? We'll get into the “Oasis quo” and “Chaz and Dave Chimney Sweep Music” of it all. Plus, listen along as we dissect how Noel and Liam Gallagher created one of the greatest British albums of all-time: (What's the Story) Morning Glory, and their infamous Wibbling Rivalry that led to the band's eventual demise. SKIP AHEAD: 26:28 – (What's the Story?) Morning Glory 1:14:52 – Knebworth 1:44:13 – Be Here Now 2:12:34 – Bonehead and Gwigs leave 2:41:28 – Oasis breaks up EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Rob Harvilla @robharvilla Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
By 1994, grunge had waned and Madchester had set the table for the next massive wave of British music—the UK was ready for its next big rock band to refocus the global lens back on ol' Blighty. That's when Oasis popped onto the scene fully formed and captured the mantle with their iconic haircuts, perfect clothes, explosive feuds, and of course, their absolute bangers. Join along as Yasi Salek and her Wonderwall, The Ringer's Rob Harvilla, ask each other: where were you while Oasis was getting high? In this part one of two, we cover everything between the band's formation and what led up to the legendary Britpop chart battle. SKIP AHEAD: 6:48 – Formation: Liam and Noel Gallagher 29:57 – Formation: Other band members 45:15 – Oasis pre-Noel 1:03:06 – Oasis gets signed 1:36:41 – First single “Supersonic” 2:12:49 – “Definitely Maybe” 3:06:48 – Early Britpop Battle EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Rob Harvilla @robharvilla Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Buy tickets for the live show HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
We're unpacking the battle of Britpop as well as the war of words between Blur and Oasis. Did the art school icons or the working class heroes ultimately prevail? Who won over the critics? Who laughed all the way to the bank? Which band's legacy is stronger today? In this episode, we're going to answer those questions and more as we rehash the great feud between two Britpop giants: Oasis and Blur. Join us as Yasi and Miranda Sawyer, journalist and author of Uncommon People: Britpop and Beyond in 20 Songs (2024), declare a winner through a five-category contest: public insults, commercial success, critical acclaim, American or British audiences, and legacy. Plus, Miranda dishes exclusive goss about her infamous interview with Noel Gallagher, and she shares her boots-on-the-ground POV about the musical and political scenes surrounding the bands' respective reigns. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Miranda Sawyer @msmirandasawyer Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In honor of the holidays, we have a very special bonus episode for our fanatics. Yasi talks all things British slang with Arctic Monkeys drummer and former Kappa tracksuit-wearing lad, Matt Helders. Do you know the difference between a lad, a chav, a bloke, a bird and a geezer? Listen along as Matt quizzes Yasi on all the ways you can say “proper bladdered.” We think you'll be dead chuffed with this one, mate. CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guest: Matt Helders @matthelders Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
As one of the first Britpop bands, these college blokes from Colchester started out making shoegaze and baggy jams in the Scene that Celebrates Itself before writing a genre-defining album that romanticized British life and paved the way for an indie explosion. They were the UK's favorite band, that is, until they weren't. They may have lost the Britpop war, but their third act was brilliant nonetheless. The Ringer's Chris Ryan joins us to talk about the band who turned toward Britain and solidified a scene, and the ways they ultimately broke out of their own (Brit) box. Follow along as we trace the band's breakups and makeups, while exploring their sonic evolution from shoegaze to Britpop to alt-rock. SKIP AHEAD: 7:22 – Band formation 45:51 – Sign to Food Records; ‘She's So High' single 1:03:59 – Leisure 1:31:04 – Modern Life is Rubbish 1:45:19 – ‘Girls & Boys' single 1:54:27 – Parklife 2:25:40 – Chart Battle 2:36:25 – The Great Escape 2:51:14 – Blur (self-titled album) 3:04:01 – Britpop dies 3:05:40 – 13 3:15:49 – Think Tank 3:24:19 – The Magic Whip 3:28:03 – The Ballad of Darren EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek @yasisalek Guests: Chris Ryan @crashactivated Producer: Liz Sánchez @lizbetsanch Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ok, Yasi and the Scots are back for Madchester part two. We last saw The Stone Roses after they released their celebrated EP Sally Cinnamon, on the brink of a make-or-break decision: should they sign to Jive or Rough Trade? Meanwhile, the Happy Mondays were riding the wave of their debut album Squirrel and G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out), and guess what? They have a new friend: Ecstasy. They're now starting to make music influenced by its heart-opening potency. This is when the rave scene starts to bubble up from the dark Manchester clubs, like the Hacienda. Listen as we trace the back half of both bands' short but very sweet catalog, from Madchester Rave On to the Second Coming. SKIP AHEAD: 22:05 - Happy Mondays release ‘Wrote For Luck' single and later Bummed (1988) 1:04:28 - The Stone Roses drop their self-titled debut album (1989) 1:23:27 - Happy Mondays release Madchester Rave On EP (1989) (featured on Bummed Collector's Edition: Hallelujah / Holy Ghost / Clap Your Hands / Rave On) 1:30:30 - Madchester and “Rave” Origins 2:10:53 - Happy Mondays release Pills 'N' Thrills And Bellyaches (1990) 2:36:00 - Happy Mondays record …Yes Please (1992) 2:47:34 - Happy Mondays break up (1993) 2:51:21 - The Stone Roses release their last album Second Coming (1994) 3:13:05 - The Stone Roses break up (1996) EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek Guests: John Niven, Chlöe Walsh Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Babe, wake up, the new Bandsplain season just dropped. And what dark alleyways is Yasi leading us down next? This season we're gazing across the pond toward the underground scenes of the 80s and 90s in the UK following the peak of punk music – namely, Madchester, Brit Pop, and shoegaze. For our first episode, music industry savants and known Scots John Niven and Chlöe Walsh look back on “Baggy” and how the Happy Mondays and The Stone Roses revitalized indie music and helped cement the rise of rave culture in the industrial, Dickensian landscape that also birthed The Smiths, Joy Division, and The Buzzcocks, as well as Oasis a decade later. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the scene, this season is sure to turn you into a 24-hour-podcast person. SKIP AHEAD: 20:43 - Formation of Happy Mondays 1:00:40 - Formation of The Stone Roses 3:12:05 - Squirrel And G-Man Twenty Four Hour Party People Plastic Face Carnt Smile (White Out) (1987) 3:31:21 - Sally Cinnamon EP (1987) 3:48:06 - Arrival of Ecstasy EPISODE PLAYLIST: Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE CREDITS: Host: Yasi Salek Guests: John Niven, Chlöe Walsh Producer: Liz Sánchez Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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Hey babes, Bandsplain is still on summer break. But in the meantime, we've got a special treat for you, courtesy The Ringer and friend of the pod Steven Hyden. In 1999, a music festival took place in upstate New York that became a social experiment. There were riots, looting, and numerous assaults. And it was set to a soundtrack of the era's most aggressive rock bands. Incredibly, it was the third iteration of Woodstock, a festival known for peace, love, and hippie idealism. But Woodstock '99 revealed some hard truths behind the myths of the 1960s, and the danger that nostalgia can engender. Steven digs deep into the history and legacy of Woodstock '99 in 'Break Stuff,' an eight-part documentary series. This is a clip from Episode 1, which is out now. To hear more, subscribe to the show on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/66M93mO2xsieeujoVZqd0x?si=c9730334434e4752 Thanks for listening. Be back soon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
It's draft time once again on Bandsplain. Chris Ryan, Rob Harvilla, and Sean Fennessey join us for the not just a little chaotic Grunge draft where everybody is a Loser in one way or another. Also, a ska season is suggested as a threat, the gang discuss the most 90's feeling pop star of today, and we hear about Sean's cool metal friend from high school. All that and more, on this week's Bandsplain. Follow Chris Ryan on Twitter @ChrisRyan77 Follow Rob Harvilla on Twitter @Harvilla Follow Sean Fennessey on Twitter @SeanFennessey Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guests: Chris Ryan, Rob Harvilla, Sean Fennessey Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Hanif and Yasi are back, as we find Soundgarden on the precipice of releasing their super well known album Superunknown. The vibes? They are not always impeccable, but the songs are phenomenal. Listen as we trace the back half of the Soundgarden catalog, from Superunknown and the underrated Down on the Upside through their reunion album and the Audioslave and solo records in between. Follow Hanif Abdurraqib on Twitter @NifMuhammad Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Hanif Abdurraqib Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
One of the earlier bands to form in what would become the biggest music scene of the 90s, Soundgarden started up in Seattle in 1984 when two friends from Illinois named Kim and Hiro formed a band with a local drummer named Chris. The band blended influences and styles from post punk and new wave to Beatles and metal, slowly forming a sound that was all their own. Along the way Chris Cornell took the front, took off his shirt, and the band started to take off, especially with the addition of a few new band members. Soundgarden brought the founders of SubPop together and brought major labels sniffing around the scene, though they themselves took a more considered and well-paced path to rock stardom. In this episode we are blessed with the presence of returning guest Hanif Aburraqib to help chart the journey of this excellent band, from their earliest days through their third album, Badmotorfinger. Follow Hanif Abdurraqib on Twitter @NifMuhammad Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Hanif Abdurraqib Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The C/Z Records 'Deep Six' compilation is a thing of legend. An early document of a nascent Seattle scene that would be national news within five years, the comp features several bands that had yet to put out any recorded music, including Melvins, Soundgarden, and Andrew Wood's first band, Malfunkshun, plus tracks from Green River, Skin Yard, and the biggest band in the scene at the time, the U-Men. Kim Thayil of Soundgarden joins the show to talk about how the compilation came about and how this six-band compilation serves as a cultural artifact of the foundation of the Seattle alternative scene. Follow Soundgarden on Instagram @soundgarden. Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE. Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Kim Thayil Producer: Olivia Crerie Additional Production Supervision: Jesse Miller Gordon, Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
One of the greatest compilations of its time (the greatest time for compilations), No Alternative was the third in the Red Hot series benefiting AIDS relief. The line up is studded with iconic artists, many on the precipice of their biggest records, from Soundgarden to Sarah McLachlan, and also features influential alternative greats like Buffalo Tom, The Verlaines, and Soul Asylum. It even spawned an MTV special with live performances from Smashing Pumpkins and Goo Goo Dolls, plus short films by the likes of Tamra Davis, Hal Hartley, and Derek Jarman. Plus, the biggest rock band in the world at the time contributed an uncredited song that even without proper listing became a huge part of the comp's hype. We used to be a proper country indeed. The Ringer's own Chris Ryan joins us to break down this important cultural artifact. Follow Chris Ryan on Twitter @ChrisRyan77 Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dinosaur Jr. rose from the ashes of a teenage hardcore band looking to make some “Ear Bleeding Country.” They went on to become one of the most influential and interesting alternative rock bands of the 80's and 90's. The band went from underground to indie to major label to MTV, shedding a few original members along the way, and eventually broke up before reforming the og line-up in the mid 2000's to put out even more gorgeous records. Singer, songwriter, and Broken Social Scene member Kevin Drew joins us to navigate the long and storied path of Dinosaur Jr. Follow Kevin Drew on instagram @kevinselection Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Kevin Drew Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
It is time once again to hear from our beloved listeners, so we opened up the mail bag to answer some of your most pressing questions. Rob Harvilla joins us to help plan Yasi's trip to Ohio, discuss the sordid swing dance moment of the 90's, parse Taco Bell menu highlights, and give some answers of his own. Follow Rob Harvilla on Twitter @Harvilla Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Rob Harvilla Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Claire Cottrill, a.k.a. Clairo, drops by the pod to talk about her sexy, new album, 'Charm'; donkeys; the Beyoncé song that changed her life; her inspired choice of sandwich; listening to the Arctic Monkeys in high school; Dobby the house elf; her favorite Beach Boys era; and more. Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Clairo Producer: Chris Sutton Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Hether Fortune Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Stone Temple Pilots were given no benefit of the doubt by critics in their heyday, but the band had hits, and did not care. Hailing from Southern California, STP's equally charismatic, talented, and troubled frontman Scott Weiland helped the band take off quickly, and then frequently kept them in a state of disarray for much of their existence. Along the way Stone Temple Pilots put together a catalog of records that is much stronger upon re-examination than many originally thought. Sean Fennessey joins us today to wade through the history of a misunderstood and sometimes tragic band. Follow Sean Fennessey on Twitter @SeanFennessey Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Sean Fennessey Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jennifer Herrema of Royal Trux, RTX, and Black Bananas comes by the pod to talk about personal style, early-2000s reality television, lychee fruit, memes from loving husbands, the 'Grease' soundtrack, why she's a Deadhead, and more. Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Jennifer Herrema Producer: Chris Sutton Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Hether Fortune Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Kim Deal initially formed The Breeders with her sister Kelley as a side project while she was in the Pixies so that she could record her own songs, but it definitely turned into something way bigger, more iconic, and more influential than that. Through shifting line ups and several starts and stops, the band managed to make some of the best rock albums of the 90's and beyond, setting the bar for coolness and influencing artists from Nirvana to Olivia Rodrigo along the way. Author and New York Times pop music editor Caryn Ganz joins us to talk about their history, their impact, and of course, their incredible music. Follow Caryn Ganz on Twitter @mehpatrol Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Caryn Ganz Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Shannon Shaw of Shannon and the Clams comes by the pod to talk about their beautiful new album, 'The Moon Is in the Wrong Place'; bad smoothies; dealing with grief through making art; Primus fandom; FMK the Beatles; being saved by Drew Carey; her future career as a product jingle writer; and more. Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Shannon Shaw Producer: Chris Sutton Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Hether Fortune Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Alice in Chains emerged from the Seattle scene an entity unto themselves. Formed from remnants of local hair metal bands, they naturally evolved into the groove heavy band with a distinct vocal style we know today. Rob Harvilla joins us to parse the legacy of perhaps the most populist band of the Grunge era. Follow Rob Harvilla on Twitter @harvilla Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Rob Harvilla Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Rob Harvilla joins Yasi to talk about Steve Albini's legacy, in music and also outside of it. Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Rob Harvilla Producer: Chris Sutton Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jill Hopkins, Brian Fallon, and Steven Hyden step into the arena with Yasi to draft their favorite Pearl Jam songs and moments. The gang cover their favorite live song, favorite radio hit, and more. Will anyone try to win the draft? Or will everyone choose their picks from the heart? Tune in to find out, and decide who won for yourself. You can follow Jill on Twitter @jillhopkins You can follow Brian on Twitter @thebrianfallon You can follow Steven on Twitter @steven_hyden Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guests: Jill Hopkins, Brian Fallon, Steven Hyden Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Kacy Hill comes on the pod to talk about her fantastic new album, 'Bug'; Taurus shit; why being annoying is a woman's right and duty; going down a nostalgia hole with the Shins; her TikTok algo; why we love Poquito Más; shaking Jay-Z's hand for way too long; and more. Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Kacy Hill Producer: Chris Sutton Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Hether Fortune Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Yasi and Kevin return this week to find Pearl Jam on the verge of falling apart (spoiler alert: they didn't). We pick back up as the band enters the studio to record the excellent “Vitalogy.” Ticketmaster emerges as the band's foil, and Neil Young continues to be one of the band's greatest allies. Taking cues from his career to help them navigate their own uncharted waters, this episode takes us from 1994 to present day. Follow Kevin Clark on twitter at @bykevinclark Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Kevin Clark Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices