Magnified Pod

In this episode, Andrew and John are brothers. But first, an interview with guest Mason Mennenga: theologian, podcaster, great Twitter follow. We talk about his introduction to mewithoutYou, his favorite albums, and what makes the band so unique. Then, Andrew and John do a track by track discussion of the 2006 album Brother, Sister. Mason interview begins at 28:10. Album discussion begins at 1:18:47. *Note* This episode was recorded in July 2023 and was intended to be our Season 4 finale. There will be some additional episodes to follow before we begin Season 5, but this episode concludes the indie band discussion for this season. Thank you for your patience!

In this episode, Andrew and John are torches together. In this penultimate episode of season 4, educator, seminarian, and Patreon Punk, Meg from Monterey joins the pod to discuss mewithoutYou's album "Catch for Us the Foxes." Her deep love and knowledge of this band was critical and appreciated for our conversation! This is a deep dive episode! Album discussion begins at 52:08.

In this episode, Andrew and John celebrate. Mag Pod is officially 5 years old! Join us as we catch up after a little break and talk future pod plans. Also, what does Andrew know about Lake Superior and European pop bands? Find out in this week's quiz!

In this episode, Andrew and John can't stop thinking about it. Joining the pod this week is Danny Bracken. He is the former guitarist for the band Anathallo as well as a visual artist and director of exhibitions for the Mattress Factory art museum in Pittsburgh. We discuss his history with the band, writing and recording Floating World and Canopy Glow, crafting an interesting live show, and turning down a tour opportunity with one of his musical idols. Then, a track by track discussion of the Anathallo's final album "Canopy Glow." Album discussion begins at 1:02:43.

In this episode, Andrew and John dig up slugs and bugs. But first, thoughts on the Dalai Lama, Timothy Keller, Metallica, Babymetal, and the Olsen Twins. Then, a track by track discussion of the Anathallo album "Floating World." Album discussion begins at 28:26.

In this episode, Andrew and John dig through the Mag Pod mail bag. It's been a whiiilllle since we've read your emails and listened to some voicemails. We got a ska cover, some discussion about purity culture, and an email from someone with a very personal (and familial) connection to the Christian alternative scene.

In this episode, Andrew and John ruin it. Shadow Producer Jason returns to discuss his favorite Tooth & Nail Records release, "North To The Future" by Georgia indie rockers Joe Christmas. Jason details all the ways this record has impacted his life, from influencing design choices to the very personal moments he listens to certain tracks.

In this episode, Andrew and John go to a skating party. Joining the pod this week is Andrew Gill. He is a senior producer of the beloved music podcast Sound Opinions, former host of the WBEZ beer podcast Strange Brews, and co-creator of an upcoming PRX narrative podcast examining how the Christian music industry has impacted American culture. We talk about how important indie music was to him growing up in Florida, the Athens, Georgia music scene, and how he made Joe Christmas his identity. Then we go track by track of the Joe Christmas album "Upstairs Overlooking." Band and album discussion begins at 46:28.

In this episode, Andrew and John ride neon dolphins. After a little break, we're back to discuss the debut album by Fantasy League, a project by Scott Kerr (Five Iron Frenzy, Yellow Second) and Matt Langston (Eleventyseven).

In this episode, Andrew and John are simply having a wonderful Christmas time. It's that time of year! In this final episode of the year, Andrew and John list their top 10 albums of 2022 (plus honorable mentions). Then, a track by track discussion of the 1999 BEC Recordings compilation "Happy Christmas Vol. 2." If you want to listen to the top album discussion, jump to 27:50. To listen to the "Happy Christmas Vol. 2" discussion, jump to 1:35:57.

In this episode, Andrew and John enjoy their Christmas whisky. But first, some holiday candies and beverages. And a voicemail about our episode with Jenny Booth Potter. Then the return of the Winners Circle and the Losers Lounge. Andrew shares his feelings about a new book on deconstruction. Plus a game about Christmas songs! Finally, a track by track discussion of the David Bazan Christmas album "Dark Sacred Night." Album discussion begins at 1:24:48.

In this episode, Andrew and John are cuter than shit. But first, joining the pod this week for a discussion of her new book: Jenny Booth Potter, author of "Doing Nothing Is No Longer an Option: One Woman's Journey into Everyday Antiracism." Jenny shares stories about her journey into social justice and antiracism work, how everyone makes "racialized choices" every day, why being "colorblind" is problematic, and the role Five Iron Frenzy played in recognizing America's violent past. Then, Andrew and John do a track by track discussion of the brand new Craig's Brother album "Easily Won, Rarely Deserved." Album discussion begins at 57:22.

In this episode, Andrew and John can't keep silent on their own pod. At long last, Craig's Brother vocalist/guitarist/lyricist Ted Bond joins the pod! We talk youth group culture, songs about lust and abortion, being accepted in the punk scene, writing the new Craig's Brother album, and...the Craig's Brother biopic? Conversation with Ted starts at 3:16.

In this episode, Andrew and John open a box of Oops! All Voicemails. After a month of spooky music and too much sugar, we're back to a regular episode...sort of. We tackle a backlog of voicemails, talk about Andrew's recent trip to Chicago to hang with John, enjoy a couple sweet and not-so-sweet taste tests, and once again visit the Winner's Circle.

In this episode, Andrew and John show mercy. Magnifright Pod is coming to a close for 2022, so the dudes enjoy their last spooky candies and beverages for October. Then some more ghost story voicemails. Andrew shares his experience hunting for the Hat Man with his brother. Also, for this week's game, Andrew and John "feud." John shares an update about seeing Grave Robber and Leper live. Finally, a track by track discussion of the Spy Glass Blue EP, The Blue EP. Album discussion begins at 1:10:11.

In this episode, Andrew and John enjoy milk and cookies. We're opening up the Mag Pod archive for an episode recorded back in October 2021. We talked with Shadow Producer Jason (Unoriginal Vinyl) about the Colorado industrial band Rackets & Drapes as well as gothic metal band Saviour Machine. Jason gets personal and shares his story and how these bands fit into it. Conversation starts at 3:08. A few show notes: Jason is doing a visual bit at the beginning of our conversation so you won't hear him talk for about the first 40 seconds. At 1:12:12 you will hear an audio transition because our Zoom crashed, so we just jump back into the conversation. This conversation is also largely unedited. Enjoy.

In this episode, Andrew and John crush skulls. But first, the latest in spooky candy wins and losses for the boys. And some non-spooky discussion of Blink-182. Then more haunted voicemails. This week John puts the Quizmaster Pants back on and asks Andrew about horror movie facts! Finally, a track by track discussion of the S.S. Bountyhunter album "Serpents For Eggs." Album discussion begins at 1:12:59.

In this episode, Andrew and John put the "fun" back in funeral. But first, another round of spooky beverages and candy! Then some voicemails about ghost stories and Neon Horse. Also, find out what John knows about haunted theaters and old-timey radio ghost stories in this week's quiz! Finally, a track by track discussion of the 2005 Mercury Radio Theater album "Blue Eyed Model." Album discussion begins at 1:03:41.

In this episode, Andrew and John sin for the first time in years. Magnifright Pod is back! For the month of October, we will get extra spooky with coverage of bands that put us in the Halloween spirit. But first, some seasonal beverages and candy! Then, does Andrew have a ghost in his house? And which road will he take in the dark forest? Also, John retells his famous Hat Man story. If you haven't heard this true story before, listen to it with the lights off. Finally, track by track of the Neon Horse album "Haunted Horse: Songs Of Love, Defiance & Delusion." Album discussion begins at 56:50.

In this episode, Andrew and John pop some wheelies. But first, Andrew recaps the Jimmy Eat World/Charly Bliss show. Also, listeners share about their experiences at the Five Iron show in Denver. And will John recap the Hat Man story for the impending spooky season? Then Jason from Unoriginal Vinyl joins us to talk Furnace Fest, the Dead Alive photo coffee table book, and the latest vinyl releases coming your way. Finally, a track by track discussion of the Morella's Forest album "Ultraphonic Hiss." Album discussion begins at 1:01:32. 

In this episode, Andrew and John go the distance. This week on the pod, Jason Ragan (Craig's Brother, Too Bad Eugene) joins us to talk about the Santa Cruz punk scene, the early Tooth & Nail days, playing in Craig's Brother, and joining Too Bad Eugene on the road. Too Bad Eugene's "Distance" out September 14 and Craig's Brother's "Easily Won, Rarely Deserved" out November 11. Check out People of Punk Rock Records for pre-orders and other great bands!

In this episode, Andrew and John pray for rain. But first some voicemails about Aaron Lewis and Rage Against the Machine, the benefits of our rambling, and how Driver Eight and Morella's Forest are perfect and also not perfect. Then some listener music! Also, Andrew recaps the Minnesota State Fair and shares audio of a fair weird beer taste test. Finally, an interview with Joel Heng Hartse, author, academic, and lover all thing's 90's Christian rock. Check out his new book Dancing About Architecture Is a Reasonable Thing to Do: Writing about Music, Meaning, and the Ineffable. Interview begins at 43:45.

In this episode, Andrew and John are superstars. But first, we talk about THC-infused seltzers and watching dolphins after taking an edible. Then, a discussion about who podcasts are for: the audience or the hosts. And should there be a Mag Pod format change? Also, Aaron Lewis (from Staind) has an awful country song that we have thoughts about. Finally, a track by track discussion of the Morella's Forest Tooth & Nail Records debut "Super Deluxe." Album discussion begins at 29:03.

In this episode, Andrew and John spend some time getting this thing to go. After about an hour of pre-show audio issues, the dudes finally get recording. Apologies for the less-than-stellar audio this week. But first some voicemails about Driver Eight, silk shirts, and our coverage of more obscure bands this season. Then a track by track discussion of Watermelon, the only Driver Eight record. Album discussion begins at 22:56.

In this episode, Andrew and John unearth troves of antediluvian kind. But first, the dudes recount their most recent hang in Minneapolis at the Graveyard Club album release show. Then, an MxPx and Taylor Swift conTRAversy? Also Beyonce and Chris Carrabba take the podium for the Winners Circle. Finally, a track by track discussion of the new Ronnie Martin solo record From The Womb Of The Morning, The Dew Of Your Youth Will Be Yours. Album discussion begins at 52:20.

In this episode, Andrew and John return. After an unexpectedly long break, your boys are back to fill you in on all the happenings in their lives. And some of them are real bummers. We have some solid additions to the Winner's Circle and the Loser's Lounge this episode. Then, a track by track discussion of the Jason and Ronnie Martin collaboration, the Brothers Martin. Album discussion begins at 58:15.

In this episode, Andrew and John know how you feel. But first, Andrew shares some very exciting news! Also, some voicemails about hardcore kids and Joy Electric, David Lynch, and an almost Starflyer 59 love story. Then, Sam and Aaron from the Blue Collar Love podcast join us to talk about Jason Martin, Bon Voyage, and all things Martin! Finally, a track by track discussion of the debut Bon Voyage record. Album discussion begins at 1:16:24.

In this episode, Andrew and John start the Mag Pod Disco Palace. But first, Matt Langston (Eleventyseven, Fantasy League) joins the pod to talk Joy Electric! We discuss first introductions to JE, his first synthesizer, and what exactly a mono synth is. Then, we dive head first into the berry patch and get super deep into the 1997 Joy Electric album "Robot Rock." Album discussion begins at 51:21.

In this episode, Andrew and John have too much fun. Scott Kerr (Five Iron Frenzy, Yellow Second) joins the pod to discuss his new band with Matt Langston (Eleventyseven) Fantasy League. But first we hit up some final voicemails from our Pedro the Lion stretch of episodes. Then Scott joins us to go track by track of the 1998 Starflyer 59 record "The Fashion Focus." Album discussion begins at 55:16.

In this episode, Andrew and John get granular. Joining the pod this week is Brandon Vedder. He's an award winning filmmaker known for his music videos, documentaries, and narrative films. In 2019 his documentary, Strange Negotiations, about David Bazan premiered at SXSW to critical acclaim. We talk about how he pitched the documentary idea to Dave, what it was like being on the road for the house shows, filming things by himself, youth group culture, and why he will always be interested in making films about religion. Then, Andrew and John rank the Pedro the Lion records and create their perfect Bazan set lists. Interview begins at 2:00, and the album rankings begin at 1:44:45.

In this episode, Andrew and John bear witness. But first, a different kind of taste test this week. Also, what are some of your favorite "throwback snacks" from your childhood? Then some voicemails about Phoenix and persevering in difficult times. *Content Warning* Andrew and John spend some time discussing the heartbreaking tragedy in Uvalde, Texas. If you would rather skip this section for your own self-care, please skip from 37:15 to 57:32. Finally, a track by track discussion of David Bazan's debut LP "Curse Your Branches." Album discussion starts at 1:00:22.

In this episode, Andrew and John cringe. But first, Andrew experiences some wild weather in the Twin Cities and brings some video evidence. Then John drinks some seasonably inappropriate beer. Also, the Winners Circle returns this week so Andrew and John talk at length about the new Kendrick Lamar LP! Finally, a track by track discussion of the newest Pedro the Lion record "Havasu." Album discussion begins at 37:10.

In this episode, Andrew and John take the Devil's bargain. But first, John recaps his back-to-back Pedro show experiences. Andrew laments missing his first Pedro show due to getting Covid. But his brother, Bryan, recaps the show since he went to the show in Andrew's stead. Then, the Losers Lounge returns this week with the newest inductees: the United States Supreme Court. Finally, a track by track discussion of the 2019 Pedro the Lion album "Phoenix." Album discussion begins at 1:10:51.

In this episode, Andrew and John buy you a drink and tell you all about it. But first, some voicemails about Cornerstone, fake IDs, and the significant role Bazan's music has played in the lives of some listeners. Then, a new segment we're calling "The Losers Lounge." Guess who we induct this week? Then, a track by track discussion of Pedro the Lion's fourth album, Achilles Heel. Album discussion begins at 1:04:56.

In this episode, Andrew and John lay tanning by the pool. But first, Andrew is not down with the sickness. Then, some voicemails about Control, Curse Your Branches, and Derek Webb. Also, John defends his adventurous spirit in this week's Winner's Circle. Finally, a track by track discussion of the Pedro the Lion's Control. Album discussion begins at 51:27.

In this episode, Andrew and John have some tea and cake. But first, some listener voicemails! Did the dudes go too hard on the Whole EP on their Patreon episode? Plus some listener thoughts on the song "Secret of the Easy Yoke." Then, Andrew and John welcome Cortland Coffey (Thereafter Podcast) and Meghan Crozier (Thereafter Podcast, The Pursuing Life) to the pod to discuss Pedro the Lion, religious deconstruction, reclaiming CCM music, and authenticity. Finally, track by track of the Pedro the Lion album "Winner's Never Quit." Album discussion begins at 1:09:09.

In this episode, Andrew and John cry. It's time for a brand new season of Mag Pod, and for season 4 we're covering all indie bands! Pedro the Lion was the clear choice to launch season 4, and we're excited to go on this very emotional and depressing journey. But first, are you new to the pod? Check out our introduction video on YouTube if you're wondering what we're all about (Magnified Pod: An Introduction (Who Are Andrew & John?)). Also, a new segment we're calling the Winner's Circle. And if you don't want any spoilers of the 2022 film The Batman, then skip from 26:19 to 39:35. Then, track by track of the Pedro the Lion debut record "It's Hard To Find A Friend." Album discussion begins at 49:40.

In this episode, Andrew and John wrap up season 3. After a year of discussing a lot of amazing skate punk bands, season 3 reaches its conclusion with the final Hangnail record. But first, Sadie Hawkins Pod host Danny Leary takes the Quiz Master reigns for this week's game. So how well do Andrew and John know Christian metal bands? Danny puts 'em to the test! Then a track by track discussion of the final Hangnail record Transparent. Album discussion begins at 56:32. Music during quiz by Los Cuatrocientos Golpes. Song: Caleidoscopio. More information about the band can be found here.

In this episode, Andrew and John are facing changes. . .with a new season coming soon. But first, John experiences a minor beer disaster. Then, Chris McGrath (Much the Same, Winning Streak) is back to talk about Hangnail, punk rock, his band Much the Same playing shows with Hangnail, and how he relates to the lyrics all these years later. Chris interview begins at 20:41. Finally, a track by track discussion of Hangnail's sophomore album "Facing Changes." Album discussion begins at 1:04:54.

In this episode, Andrew and John make history. But first, a recap of the holidays, some delicious new candy, and some new listener artwork! Plus, in this week's quiz, John hears some unfriendly advice. Then a track by track discussion of the 1999 Hangnail self-titled debut! Album discussion begins at 43:55.

In this episode, Andrew and John are jolly. After more than two years, Andrew and John return to Magnified Studios West for the holiday special! Hot sauce, special cocktails, Jenny Booth Potter returns, and of course their top albums of 2021! Plus, the dudes detail their experience at the Juliana Theory and Mae show at the Bottom Lounge in Chicago. Finally, a discussion of the 2020 Hangnail EP "Christmas Hymns." John Warne (Ace Troubleshooter, Relient K, Yellow Second) joins the pod to briefly discuss his contribution to this banger of an EP. Album discussion begins at 1:52:14.

In this episode, Andrew and John are introspective, today and always. But first, a match up between Trader Joe's Sour Scandinavian Swimmers and the OG Sour Patch Kids. Then, the "Make Werewolves Great Again" lyrics are put to music by Patreon Punk Brandon Kisner, and once again he does not disappoint! Also, the return of The Takes! Andrew and John discuss the new Beatles documentary, the Grammy's, and who decides what "good" music is. Plus, Andrew share's a trailer for an absurd movie that he watched with an even more absurd title. Finally, a track by track discussion of the Element 101 album "Stereo Girl." Album discussion starts at 1:31:25.

In this episode, Andrew and John deploy even more monsters! Even though Magnifright Pod is officially over, we still have more spooky content for you! Andrew and John sit down with Blaster the Rocket Man vocalist Daniel Otto Jack Petersen. They discuss Blaster, Indiana horror punk, Flannery O'Connor, John Milton, Michael Knott, R.A. Lafferty, Scotland, monsters of course, and much more! You can follow Daniel on Twitter @EcomonstrousPhD.

In this episode, Andrew and John are so unpredictable. But first we catch up on some emails and voicemails! We talk about our Sweet 16 Candy Bracket results, more Halloween memories, Harley Poe and horror punk lyrics, and a first time/long time caller! Then, the Joy Boys are back! Weird Al, tattoos, vaccines, concerts, and Dune! Finally, track by track of the debut Element 101 album "Future Plans Undecided." Album discussion begins at 1:16:50.

In this episode, Andrew and John have a vampire's night out. But first, the final round of seasonal beer and candy. And more listener voicemails about Halloween memories, hell houses, local monster legends! Then, John retells the classic (and very true) tale of his run-in with a terrifying supernatural being in Minneapolis. Also, in this week's quiz, what does John know about haunted areas around the U.S.? Finally, a track by track discussion of Harley Poe's debut record "In the Dark: Or, B-Movie Trash!" Album discussion begins at 1:15:22.

In this episode, Andrew and John believe in ghosts. But first, more seasonal beer and Halloween candy! Then a discussion of some childhood Halloween memories. And voicemails about Scandinavian Swimmers vs Sour Patch Kids, other Christian horror punk bands, and listener Halloween memories. Also, Andrew is back in the hot seat for this week's game. What does he know about local monster legends? Finally, track by track of the 2011 Grave Robber album "You're All Gonna Die." Album discussion begins at 1:25:00.

In this episode, Andrew and John turn into werewolves. But first MORE seasonal beers and candies! And what are Andrew and John's favorite horror movies? Plus, some voicemails and discussion about the "lyrics explainer card" that came in the Deadlines CD. Also, John is back in the hot seat for this week's game! Does he have another perfect game in him? Finally, a track by track discussion of the 1999 Blaster The Rocket Man album "The Monster Who Ate Jesus." Album discussion begins at 1:25:41.

In this episode, Andrew and John get spooky! All October long Mag Pod is MagniFRIGHT Pod! And we're starting this month with seasonal beers, candies, and stories about our first horror movies. Then some voicemails from a Brother. Also, what does Andrew know about Halloween? John delivers a bone-chilling quiz! Finally, track by track of the Deadlines album "The Death & Life Of...". Album discussion begins at 1:25:05.

In this episode, Andrew and John are tearing flags down. But first, all monthlong in October is MagniFRIGHT Pod! Put on your spooky pants, because it's horror punk bands throughout October! Then Joy Boys! John talks about his anniversary trip to Michigan and Andrew recaps his trip to Denver! While there, Andrew sat down with Shadow Producer Jason to discuss Furnace Fest and his innovative approach to selling vinyl at the festival. Finally, track by track of both E.P.IDEMIC (2004) and Devils In The Details (2019). And of course album rankings and our ideal Craig's Brother set lists! Album discussion begins at 1:09:10.

In this episode, Andrew and John are a couple party girls. But first, John talks about going to his first show in 20 months. Then, Joy Boys! Andrew talks about his upcoming trip to Colorado and John talks about Shang-Chi. Then track by track of the 2011 Craig's Brother album "The Insidious Lie." And Dr. Jay Phelan returns for "Jay's Theology Corner" to discuss the problem of evil. Album discussion begins at 36:21.

In this episode, Andrew and John go back and forth. But first, the Water Wars return! A taste test of two new sparkling waters: Richard's Sparkling Rain Water and Liquid Death. Then, what does John know about lullaby origins, Prince, and 1942? Finally, a track by track of the 2001 Craig's Brother album "Lost At Sea." Album discussion begins at 42:16.