Each week, Steve and Doug Ferguson go through another letter of the alphabet to bring you an artist of possible interest.
After months of research, Steve and Doug return to examine the full(ish) career of Ariel Pink in all his incarnations! Often hailed as a forefather of hypnogagic pop, Pink has dabbled in beach rock, lo fi, shoegaze, and experimental rock. The fellas also wax on evolution of sound, fostering a reputation, cancel culture, and the Death of the Author.Music featured this week:Diaper Duty - Never Made A Demo, EverRound And Round - Before TodayFor Kate I Wait - The DoldrumsKitchen Witch - Ded [...]
Steve's in the mood to get a game going! The participants: Doug, father figure Stuart, and Their Friend Travis. The question? Do they know their Bond themes? Join the intrigue and silliness as the fellas get stumped or answer some teasers with ease. Which ones had you never heard?Music featured this week:James Bond Theme - John Barry & Orchestra (composed by Monty Norman)Goldfinger - Shirley Bassey quizspecial2.mp3File Size: 102569 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 1:21 - [...]
Calling a song or a band a one hit wonder can be dependent on region or even just faulty memory. But what about one album wonders? Steve and Doug take a look at bands who released just one glorious studio album, then faded away. Along the way they chat about AI Taylor Swift, strange live albums, and albums composed via mail.Today's Albums:Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation Of Lauryn Hill - August 1998New Radicals - Maybe You've Been Brainwashed Too - October 1998The Postal Service - Give Up [...]
Wrapping up this alphabet run (for real this time guys), Steve and Doug investigate the 90's hair metal band 21 Guns! The fellas also chat about podcast hosting (how exciting!), compilations, soundtrack albums, and music released in the wrong decade.Six Degrees From King Crimson:21 Guns -> Trapeze -> John Wetton -> King CrimsonMusic featured this week:Knee Deep - SaluteBlood Gone Bad - Demo-LitionMister Mofo - Nothing's Real 21_guns.mp3File Size: 158570 kbFile Type: [...]
The duo are back to chat about post-punk turned dance electronic band Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Along the way, the guys talk about the New York music scene of the early 00's, bands that come back from a long hiatus, cover art designed to make parents mad, and the nutty state of streaming services.Music featured this week:Zero - It's Blitz!Maps - Fever To TellBurning - Cool It Down yyy5.mp3File Size: 163901 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 0:46 - It was a 5 day hike over 50 km (30 mile [...]
Steve and Doug brush up on punk history this episode with a special request, X-Ray Spex, founded by fashion and music icon Poly Styrene. The guys also talk about mental illness, long-awaited reunions, and one killer sax. Also, screw Ticketmaster.Six Degrees From King Crimson:X-Ray Spex -> Falcon Stuart -> Adam & The Ants -> Chris Hughes -> Peter Gabriel -> Robert Fripp -> King CrimsonMusic featured this week:Oh Bondage Up Yours! - Oh Bondage Up Yours! singleJunk Fo [...]
This episode, Steve and Doug reflect on the composing duo A Winged Victory For The Sullen who have mastered the blending of orchestra and electronic. The guys also wax about the Grammys, a new edition of the Kanye West Report, nipples, and insomnia music.Music featured this week:Steep Hills Of Vicodin Tears - A Winged Victory For The SullenATOMOS VII - ATOMOSAdios, Florida - The Undivided FiveOnly The Names Of The Airport Changes - Only The Names Of The Airport Changes (single) [...]
Steve and Doug get all spooooooky with one of the most influential British acts of the 1990's and the subject of one of the hands down most intriguing music legal battles in history: The Verve! The guys also yak about bargain store finds, the UK music market, and the Staple Singers. Poor guys.Songs Featured This Week:Love Is Noise - ForthHistory - A Northern SoulBittersweet Symphony - Urban Hymns vvv5.mp3File Size: 129344 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 1:08 - Here is [...]
Steve and Doug close out the summer with British rock band turned house-techno-electronica trio/duo/trio (phew!) soundtrack gurus Underworld! The fellas also chat about changing genres, the delicate art of soundtracks, and musical projects that transcend albums.Six Degrees From King Crimson:Karl Hyde -> Brian Eno -> Adrian Belew/Robert FrippSongs Featured This Week:Dirty Epic - dubnobasswithmyheadmanStand Up - Change The WeatherJumbo - Beaucoup Fish uuu5.mp3File Size: 181246 k [...]
Steve and Doug go back to one of the most successful bands out of the 80's that defined an era, and possibly therapy: Tears For Fears. The band went from a group of teens in the post-punk scene to some of the most innovative pop songs, but what slowed down their momentum? Along the way, they also chat about solo acts, perfect cover songs (again), CD's on eBay, and Steve's weird encounter with Terry David Mulligan.Six Degrees From King Crimson:Tears For Fears -> Peter Gabriel -> Ro [...]
It's the band we've spoken about the most that haven't done an episode on yet: here it is! Canadian band Stars, and their constantly evolving sound. From pop hits to experimental electronica, Stars constantly strives to mature their sound. The fellas also talk about Taylor Swift dishing on her exes, pop hooks, and helping out your fellow bands.Music featured this week:Take Me To The Riot - In Our Bedroom After The WarWe Don't Want Your Body - The Five GhostsElevator Love Letter - HeartI [...]
From North Carolina comes The Rosebuds, made up of duo Ivan Howard and Kelly Crisp. The band goes from beach rock to cheesy synths to contemplative melancholia, all within one remarkable decade. Steve and Doug also chat about this year's Polaris Music Prize, Christmas albums, and the dynamics of breaking up your relationship when in a band together.Music featured this week:Life Like - Life LikeGet Up, Get Out - Night Of The FuriesWoods - Loud Planes Fly LowNight Of The Fur [...]
Coming across the world from Savona, Italy, are prog rock masters Qirsh! Steve and Doug also take the time to chat about perfecting your art, cheesy settings on a keyboard, and why Pink Floyd is still one of the best bands in the world.Music featured this week:Notizie dalla città (News From The City) - Una Città Per Noi (A City For Us)Rianimazione (Resuscitation) - Sola Andata (One Way)Rumors - Aspera Tempora Parte 1 (Rough Times Part 1) qqq5.mp3File Size: 12852 [...]
We're back with an all new episode on the boys from North Carolina, Papadosio! Steve and Doug catch you up on what's been going on the last couple years, chat about geography, muse about copyright (again), and how to nail a double album.Music featured this week:Unparalyzer - By The Light Of The Stars EPGarden - T.E.T.I.O.S.All I Knew - ObservationsMr. Turtle's Cloud Kingdom - Pattern Integrities ppp5.mp3File Size: 203266 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 6:04 - Around h [...]
Doug and Steve look at Canadian rock legends Our Lady Peace. The fellas also discuss advertising, teenage rebellion, and commercial versus critical success.Music featured this week:Thief - Happiness... Is Not A Fish That You Can CatchSomewhere Out There - GravityClumsy - ClumsyIf You Believe - Spiritual Machines ooo5.mp3File Size: 175590 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 3:00 - Hi Past Steve!6:51 - If you're interested, here's a story on Rob Ford and his v [...]
*Originally released March 21st 2019*Doug and Steve come barreling back with the follow-up to their Joy Division episode, looking at the off-shoot band New Order. The boys talk about the evolution of pop music, Rhino Entertainment, and the rise of the Lizard People.Six Degrees From King Crimson:New Order -> Stephen Hague -> Pet Shop Boys -> Andy Mackay -> Roxy Music -> Brian Eno / Bryan Ferry -> King CrimsonNew Order -> Flood -> U2 -> Brian Eno -> Robert Fr [...]
*Originally released January 19th 2019*This episode, Steve and Doug tackle French act M83, from their humble electronica roots up through soundtracks, rock ballads, 70's infomercial themes, and haunting car chases in the middle of the night. Do it, try it!Music featured this week:Midnight City - Hurry Up, We're DreamingOblivion - Oblivion [soundtrack]Don't Save Us From The Flames - Before The Dawn Heals UsWhere The Boats Go - Hurry Up, We're Dreaming mmm5.mp3File Size: 154331 kbFile [...]
*Originally released December 22nd 2018*Doug and Steve look at a special request this week with Gilbert, Arizona, band Lydia! The guys chat about line up changes, preserving a band's image, forming a distinct voice, and whatever emo skaters are up to these days. Also, Steve discovers new ways to sleep.Music featured this week:Goodside - LiquorSmile, You've Won - This December; It's One More And I'm FreeHave Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas [sing [...]
*Originally released October 18th 2018*Steve and Doug are back to tackle the UK electronic rock band Kasabian. What does visual aesthetic have to do with an album? Where does politics end and the club begin? What does production work really do for an album's sound? And how awesome can facial hair truly be? Believe it or not, the guys manage to chat about it all!Music featured this week:Empire - EmpireGoodbye Kiss - Velociraptor!You're In Love With A Psycho - For Crying Out LoudU- [...]
*Originally released September 22nd 2018*Let's kick off the fall with a look at the short-lived but acclaimed career of Joy Division. Steve and Doug talk about the punk scene in blue-collar UK, destroying stages and manic dancing, and the effects of a fast-paced musician's lifestyle. Stay tuned for part 2 in a few months when we continue the story with New Order!Music featured this week:Atmosphere - Licht Und Blindheit [single]Love Will Tear Us Apart - Love Will Tear Us Apart [single]Sh [...]
*Originally released August 29th 2018*This episode, Doug and Steve look at California alternative rock band Incubus, known for their high energy anthems and beach-vibe guitar. Steve muses on lead singer Brandon Boyd's vocal mixing, Doug reflects on the film Stealth (or, as he calls it, "Danger Danger Death Plane"), and the two talk about album certifications, in case you aren't sure what platinum sales are - here's a hint: it depends on the country.Music featured this week:Wish Y [...]
*Originally released July 2nd 2018*This episode, Steve and Doug look at Beaverton, Oregon, band The Helio Sequence! The fellas also chat about the rise of Modest Mouse, and working in a record shop, while Doug continually tries to sidetrack Steve with Menamena.Music featured this week:Don't Look Away - Love And DistanceJust Mary Jane (Calypso) - Com PlexRed Shifting - The Helio Sequence hhh5.mp3File Size: 193383 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 35:07 - Modest Mouse had a huge [...]
*Originally released June 7th 2018*The fellas take a jump over to Seattle to look at Grand Hallway, the chamber pop project spearheaded by Tomo Nakayama. The guys talk a bit about Spotify, Sasquatch Music Festival, and doing chores.Music featured this week:Blessed Be, Honey Bee - PromenadeLittle Sister - Winter CreaturesPiano Room - Yes Is The Answer ggg5.mp3File Size: 154467 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 2:00 - As of April 9th 2020, "Allie Hasn't Seen The Lion King [...]
*Originally released May 11th 2018*We're back after a quick April break and looking at Swedish sisters First Aid Kit. Steve and Doug talk about musical families, the resurgence of folk into the pop world, and the return of ABBA!Music featured this week:It's A Shame - RuinsThe Lion's Roar - The Lion's RoarThe Bell - Stay Gold fff5.mp3File Size: 115574 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 7:14 - I'm sure we've all seen it, but just in case you haven't here's "This Is America [...]
*Originally released April 1st 2018*A! What is ‘E up to?”, said A to Z. Long story short, Z replied “Elliott Smith”, and then the fun began. Join us as we take on the influential indie / lo-fi darling of the 1990s, and chat about songwriting tactics, substance abuse, experimentation, and the ever-controversial “posthumous release.”Music A To Z says: "Hi."Music featured this week:Everything Means Nothing To Me - Figure 8Condor Ave - Roman C [...]
*Originally released March 20th 2018*From sunny Los Angeles, Doug and Steve look at New Wave (new New Wave? Newest Wave?) duo De Lux, and chat about awesome videos, observational lyrics, and how track length effects an album. It's hard not to show your influences, but while some bands are derivative, De Lux excels at keeping their voice.Music featured this week:Better At Making Time - VoyageSomeday Now - Generation875 Dollars - More Disco Songs About Love ddd5.mp3File Size: 127672 k [...]
*Originally released March 6th 2018*Doug and Steve tackle another long-awaited request this week with Chairlift. The guys chat about the influence of Beyoncé, the power of singles, and visually awesome music videos, while Sidewalk Safari plays on repeat in their heads.Music featured this week:Bruises - Does You Inspire YouMet Before - SomethingCh-Ching - Moth ccc5.mp3File Size: 75317 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 7:13 - No, your YouTube isn't broken. This is [...]
*Originally released February 3rd 2018*Steve and Doug tackle one of the biggest challenges of their podcast history: the monstrous discography of pop act Bee Gees. The duo cover five decades worth of album releases and weigh the different eras of Bee Gees music against each other. They also chat about soulful love ballads, the evolution of cover art, and the Night Disco Died.Six Degrees From King Crimson:Bee Gees -> Arif Mardin -> Hall & Oates -> Robert Fripp -> K [...]
*Originally released November 19th 2017*We kick off a new alphabet cycle by interviewing the lovely and talented Maya Rae! The group chat about the impact of social media on distribution, making connections with independent artist, and pursuing art just because you love it. Also, Steve quizzes Maya with a word association game.Music featured this week:Sapphire Birds - Sapphire Birds interviewmayarae.mp3File Size: 89802 kbFile Type: mp3Download File Maya Rae's Offici [...]
*Originally released December 4th 2017*It's been three and a half years since we started this podcast, and almost all the artists we covered in our first run have gone on to release more material - let's check it out!Music featured this week:Back In Time - Huey Lewis and The News followup4.mp3File Size: 197582 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 7:55 - B Is For Belle and Sebastian has now also been remastered, so it's probably the best it'll ever be at this point30:54 - Actually [...]
*Originally released October 13th 2017*Straight from Manchester comes the four fellas of The 1975. Listen as Steve and Doug chat about how a band can find it's identity, where they show off their influences, and why track order is critical for an album.Music featured this week:Chocolate - The 1975Robbers - The 1975Somebody Else - I Like It When You Sleep, For You Are So Beautiful Yet So Unaware Of It 1975.mp3File Size: 130730 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 1:38 - Do they ha [...]
*Originally released September 22nd 2017*From San Francisco are the eclectic and fun ZONK! Steve and Doug chat about genres, live shows, productions, and Blade Runner.Music featured this week:Tittle Tattle - Our Five Worst Songs [EP]Hard. Full. Often. - Tongue In CheeksNervous Excited Delighted (Dangerous) - Half Human zzz4.mp3File Size: 122531 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 2:25 - Not anymore though! If you want to check out Kurtis' work, go to The Epic Marvel Podcast!35:4 [...]
*Originally released September 8th 2017*Steve and Doug return to chat about plunderphonic artist _yi. What is the place of plunderphonics in the music world? What sort of distinctions exist between those kinds of artists? Steve also chats about some of the musical connections he made while in Spain. **Please note, since this episode's release, the artist has since rebranded themselves as Waiai**Music featured this week:hello - OTNJ_Bsayonara - irasshaimase x sayonara [EP]t [...]
*Originally released August 13th 2017*Steve and Doug ring in August to examine classic rock, post-punk band XTC. The guys reflect on the punk movement, studio bands vs touring, and a mysterious group known as The Dukes of Stratosphear. Who are they? And will they tour??Six Degrees From King Crimson:XTC -> Todd Rundgren -> Hall & Oates -> Robert Fripp -> King CrimsonXTC -> Steve Lillywhite -> Peter Gabriel -> Robert Fripp / Tony Levin -> King CrimsonXTC -> [...]
*Originally released July 14th 2017*Steve and Doug's examination into 90's One Hit Wonders continues as they investigate the fascinating and stylized career of Jyoti Mishra, also known as White Town. The guys also chat about student-filmed music videos, fluid sexuality, and Steve's plan b birthday present.Music featured this week:Your Woman - Women In TechnologyMake The World Go Away - Don't Mention The WarYou Fill Me Up - MonopoleOh, David - Deemab www4.mp3File Size: [...]
*Originally released June 19th 2017*Back from Sasquatch Music Festival, Doug and Steve ponder Victor Wooten and his incredible music language. Although best known as one of the great bassists, Wooten's talent for song writing and love of teaching music to youth permeates through every song and surpasses every genre. Also, what did he say?Music featured this week:Soul Circus - Soul CircusThe Lesson - palmysteryWhat Did He Say? - What Did He Say? vvv4.mp3File Size: 15777 [...]
*Originally released May 23rd 2017*Doug and Steve examine the short-lived but awesome career of Unified Theory, the super group comprised of members from Blind Melon, Pearl Jam, and Celia Green. Why didn't their astounding debut album take off? Was it because of Limp Bizkit, or Backstreet Boys? The duo also are left puzzled by the little known appearance of their 2006 follow up.Music featured this week:California - Unified TheoryWither - Unified Theory15 Hits - Cinematic uuu4. [...]
*Originally released May 11th 2017*Steve and Doug jump over to Perth, Australia, to cover psychedelic rock act Tame Impala. The fellas ponder the experimental nature of the music, Kevin Parker's creative process, and teenage sexuality. Lots of teenage sexuality. Holy cow.Music featured this week:Elephant - LonerismLucidity - InnerspeakerThe Less I Know The Better - CurrentsLet It Happen - Currents ttt4.mp3File Size: 154286 kbFile Type: mp3Download File 2:05 - Or you [...]