The Hoodrat Recap: a Podcast For The Hold Steady

Bill from Chicago might've said it best: the Hoodrats kicked off an epic night at The Bowery Ballroom by squeezing into the tiniest bar in NYC—and things only got bigger from there. Vermont Cat and Gaspar join the recap to break down a Craig Finn show that featured up to eleven musicians on stage at once. Which songs soared? Which moments hit hardest?Then, Gaspar gives his take on Craig's Rough Trade set and dives deep into a startling reveal about the character “Nathen” that has his red yarn conspiracy board tangled in new directions.Finally, the Diamonds in the Drain game returns—but this time, it's the bonus tracks under the microscope. Can Kevin resist peer pressure, or will “Kevin is Whenever” go rogue and crown a different gold medal track than the rest of the gang? Tune in for music nerding, bold takes, and group text energy turned all the way up.Fill out our quick survey:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1MqdvDjV3PioUvMlYeJNFwnzpKJT8S9vU_NTXIsd5TLM/viewform?edit_requested=true&pli=1Leave us a voicemail:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapPodcast

Join Gaspar and Mike as they embark on an epic adventure through the Twin Cities to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iconic album "Separation Sunday." This special episode captures their whirlwind tour of Minneapolis landmarks, musical history, and local culinary delights! The Twin Cities Scavenger Hunt- **The Replacements House** - Mike and Gaspar visit this legendary music landmark- **Mary Tyler Moore Statue** - Classic Minneapolis photo op- **The Mysterious Bob Stinson Bench** - A hidden gem for music fans- **Party City** - An unexpected stop on their journey- Gaspar's Instagram-breaking excitement throughout the adventure- Mike rediscovering hidden gems in his own hometown The Epic Shows- Four unique shows at First Avenue, 7th Street Entry, & Fine Line- Detailed breakdown of each stunning performance- Special moments and surprises from the anniversary celebration- The band's evolution over 20 years...(are they still getting better?)Twin Cities Food Tour- Gaspar's first time experiencing cheese curds- The legendary Juicy Lucy adventure- Local cuisine recommendations Behind the Scenes- Travel mishaps and unexpected discoveries- Fan encounters during the trip-"Howard the Human Bowling Ball" Strikes back!-Soundcheck is crazy good= Pub Quiz goes six for sixFollow Scott Sheahen on Instagram and view his excellent recap of “The Hold Steady” here:https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJNLRV8vWu2/?igsh=ejR0YW5idGN1MTdiSend us a voicemail https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapPodcastListen to the “Or is It Podcast”https://episodes.fm/1739256989?view=apps&sort=popularity

Gaspar tries to keep up as Stage Right Mike and Spunky Comstock recount their wild adventure to Codfish Hollow, Iowa, where they caught Craig Finn and Bob Mould performing together.* The guys describe their unconventional journey following directions that included "take a left at the cow pasture" and encountering a town crier dressed remarkably like Jesse Ventura from "Predator."* Mike and Spunky share how they tempted fate by visiting the Buddy Holly crash site the morning after seeing two iconic bespectacled frontmen perform. Spunky nicely ties Craig Finn to the "Dukes of Hazard" opening theme.* Gaspar and Mike offer their predictions and Wishlist's for opening acts at the upcoming Minnesota shows.* Mike provides his unique brand of travel advice for first-time visitors to Minnesota, including essential destinations, local customs, and food recommendations that may or may not be helpful.Send us a voicemail:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapPodcastContact us:Thehoodratrecap.com

Is Always Been Craig Finn's best album yet? We dive deep into his latest release, breaking down the rich storytelling and unforgettable melodies that make this record stand out. Plus, we explore Lousy with Ghosts, Finn's companion book, and how it adds layers of meaning to the songs.Do these tracks work better as a full narrative experience, or can you just rock out without the deeper dive? We break it all down—song by song, story by story.Order your copy of Always Been and Lousy With Ghosts at:Http://www.CraigFinn.NetWhat do you think of Craig's new album & book? Send us a voicemail and let us know:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapPodcastCheck out all things Hood Rat Recap atHTTP://www.LinkTr.ee/TheHoodratRecapListen to Kevin and Gaspar discuss the movie “Slaxxx” (coming soon) or heat Mike discuss the movie RockyIV—now on our good friends at the “Or Is It Movie Podcast”https://episodes.fm/1739256989?view=apps&sort=popularity

This week on *The Hoodrat Recap*, your favorite *The Hold Steady* fancast, we're diving into the band's epic March 2025 London takeover! Join us as Jonas from Norway and Chris from Richmond hop on the mic to break down all the sweaty, singalong glory of “The Weekender,” “The Electric Ballroom,” and “The 100 Club” shows. From blistering riffs to barstool anthems, we're recapping every moment that made these nights unforgettable.Then, we dive into our voicemail inbox, which is overflowing with messages from fans who made the trip—especially our friends from the Netherlands, who may or may not have left their own country simply because they ran out of beer.Oh, and guess what? “From Meatloaf to Billy Joel” is back, baby! We're hyping a fan's new band that's so good it might just save rock ‘n' roll—or at least get us free drinks. Crack a cold one, crank the volume, and join us for this sloppy, glorious mess. Probably on Spotify unless we screwed up the upload again!--- Send us a voicemail Right NOW!!https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapPodcastListen to Deathlounge here:https://deathlounge.bandcamp.com/

In this special Flashcast episode, the crew breaks down Craig Finn's latest musical offering, "People of Substance". Join us for an instant, unfiltered take on the new track that's got everyone talking. The hosts will explore the song's musical landscape, drawing connections to classic rock influences and dissecting its sonic DNA. They'll also provide the inside scoop on the upcoming album's track listing and release date, giving listeners a comprehensive preview of what's to come.Exciting additions to this episode include:- A call-in review from new fan Spunky Comstock, sharing his hot take on Finn's latest work- Stage Right Mike's eccentric plans for a macabre-themed journey to Craig's Iowa showListen to Craig's new song here:https://orcd.co/cf-abReach out to “The Hoodrat Recap” here:https://linktr.ee/thehoodratrecapSubmit a voicemail now:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Dive into the musical odyssey with us as we explore the elusive tracks of The Hold Steady!In this episode, we delve deep into the vault of fan requests for the ultimate "white whale songs" - those tunes from The Hold Steady that fans have been yearning to hear live but have never had the chance. Listeners have submitted their most coveted songs, and we're here to discuss, reminisce, and maybe even dream about the day these tracks see the light of the stage.  But that's not all! Gear up for another thrilling round of our beloved game, "Diamonds in the Drain Game." This time, we've got some middleweight contenders ready to battle it out for the glory of gold, the shimmer of silver, and the honor of bronze. Whether you're a die-hard Hold Steady enthusiast or just love a good musical challenge, this episode promises to entertain, educate, and maybe even inspire you to chase your own musical white whales. Don't miss out!Send us a voicemail at:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapSend us an email at:Thehoodrarrecap@gmail.comAll things Hoodrat Recaphttps://linktr.ee/thehoodratrecap

For our 50th episode we put 40 bucks on 4 “Massive Nights” as 100 songs were played to wrap up 2024!We recap all things Massive Nights 2024 from the Brooklynn Bowl.And boy is there a lot to recap:First Pub Quiz by Martin Fitzgerald in this place we call the United States.Justice for “Teeth Dreams”…played entirely in the soundcheck. Who is “Psycho Craig?” and when did he learn to play the bass?A sixteen year old song gets played live for the first time ever!  In fact, so many rare songs got played it was almost “Criminal” to count them on your “Fingers”…Do you have a review of Massive Nights?  Do you wanna yell at us for something we screwed up?Send us a voicemail at:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapOr send us an email at:Thehoodratrecap@gmail.com​

Craig has been touring two different continents for his brand new solo show, “This is What it Looks like.” We have the reviews of his New York City & Saint Paul shows with scoops on his exciting brand new songs! But first, we start out with another grueling round of “Diamonds in the Drain.” Kevin Is sure he has the songs in the correct order of greatness… Gaspar of course, likes all the songs equally… Meanwhile, Mike has trouble pronouncing penultimate… So play along with the smash new drinking game that pits your favorite songs against each other…. Leave us a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap Contact us here: @thehoodratrecap | Linktree

Little Rock Lizzie and David from the Positive Posting Facebook group join us to break down three unforgettable nights of shows in Atlanta—plus one soundcheck that revealed more than anyone expected! (43:34)Then, we dive into listener-submitted Weird Al Yankovic-style parody lyrics for The Hold Steady. Get ready to laugh as we share some wildly creative submissions and even listen to a few brilliant parodies that take the band's songs to hilarious new heights.Send us a voicemail:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapContact us:Linktr.ee/thehoodratrecap

In this episode, the ultra-talented, multi artistic Franz Nicolay joins us to talk about his latest book, Band People. Franz dives into how the book might feel therapeutic for seasoned supporting band members, though maybe not the best handbook for new recruits. We also break down the brand-new cover of Jesse Malin's “Death Star.” Join us as we explore the meaning behind the track and, as we like to say, “That's no moon…” Check out Franz's new book at :https://franznicolay.com/ How was the Atlanta show?  Do you have parody lyrics for a THS song? What's the best show you've ever been too? Please send us a voicemail at:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapEmail or message us at:https://linktr.ee/thehoodratrecap

The band performs three stunning nights in Denver.  Chase gives a very thorough review  including Craig's birthday activities and what does the chant “poop dog” mean?  Then hurricane Jess returns to the show. She describes the differences between a UK crowd and a Denver crowd and her first ever Hold steady concert in America. Jess also reviews two recent Craig Finn solo shows in London. She also expresses her love for the album, “Teeth  Dreams” and all the controversy's that come along with that.   Then the guys have another spirited round of “diamonds in the drain” where the results are scattered all over the place. Leave us a voicemail at:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecapEmail us at:Thehoodratrecap@gmail.com Check out these fabulous podcasts of our sponsors: "Or Is It Movie Podcast"  https://open.spotify.com/episode/7eLSRqqS0SYagguW0G2TZI?si=Cl5ZgBV3SCW0IfNtYqKFsg https://open.spotify.com/show/12KhnWIJNUOWa96O0yswBk?si=Hcl7U6KmQu-WOXNP5-ReKw

Bill Childs shares the story of how a chance run with Craig unexpectedly formed "The Hold Sweaty" and the hilarious pitfalls of designing a run route based on THS lyrics. Then Bill sits in with us for another exciting edition of ***The Diamonds in the Drain Game****Opening Tracks Edition*** Will you be brave enough and play along with the brand new drinking game and take a shot every time one of the Hoodrats exclaims, " But I like all these songs equally?" Plus, ****Breaking News**** All the deets on Massive Nights 2024 and other announments. Please leave us a sexy (or non-sexy) voicemail at: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Like an Australian Great White, Andrew circles the Melbourne show gobbling up interviews with first time fans and a band member. Lowertown review: Mike gives an in-depth review of The Yacht Club show on the banks of the Mississippi River. Find out how The Hold Steady drowns the crowd with a killer set. (30:50) Hot…Yacht Rock or Yuck…Naught Rock? Kevin & Mike dive into a debate with Gaspar over the merits of Yacht Rock, especially for fans of The Hold Steady. Will they manage to convert him? Please leave us a voicemail at: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

The Best Bar Band in the Land on the Move** **Summary:** Join us as we follow the best bar band in the land, traveling across the country to bring their music to fans everywhere. From Seattle to D.C., Evanston to Milwaukee, and St. Paul to Atlanta, the journey to build something this summer! **Fan Experiences:** - Hear from fans. - Stories and reactions from the kids at the shows. Leave us a voicemail now! ( No really we are desperate...) https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

In this episode, photographers Lee and Lisa share their gritty experiences capturing the raw energy of "The Hold Steady" shows. From dodging punches to avoiding crowd surfers, they've braved it all to get the perfect shot amid the chaos.  Key Highlights: - **Battle in the Camera Pit:** Lee and Lisa recount intense moments from the mosh pit, where getting the perfect shot means facing flying fists and falling bodies.   **A Dream Opportunity:** When the band approaches Lee with an offer to shoot the video for "Grand Junction," will he seize this career-defining chance or let it slip away?  (1:02:15) Diamonds in the Drain:** Tensions run high in this challenging segment as we debate which track from "The Hold Steady's" first three albums deserves the gold medal. Tune in for a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at concert photography and the passion that drives these two photographers to keep clicking amidst the chaos. Also, Andrew leaves us a review of the Toronto shows! Please leave us a voicemail at:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap Check out Lisa' Instagram at: ljb_film

Jump into the freight elevator with us as we delve into the latest streaming hits, "The Death Of The Punchline" and "Radar & Leda," dissecting their melodies and lyrics. Should they have been left off the album? Which song(s) would you replace? (40:00) Brace yourself for the return of the much-loved segment "Diamonds in the Drain," where we face yet another tough "Sophie's choice" ugh!!. Also, *Children's Books converted into silly song titles. * Heartfelt fan mail asks about Holly based fan-fiction. ***(Hidden track) Craig Robot*** We want to hear from you! leave us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Join us for an exclusive peek behind the curtain with THS Pub Quizmaster, Martin Fitzgerald! Explore the nuances between UK and USA crowds, and uncover the intriguing story behind Martin's book about famous individuals being compelled to listen to exceptional albums. “Ruth and Martin's Album Club: Listen to a classic album you've never heard before. Now write about it.” Learn how Martin crossed paths with Craig and evolved into "The THS Quizmaster."Plus, get ready to test your knowledge with a riveting quiz featuring "six questions" alongside The Hoodrats. Discover the reasons why Martin avoids quizzes in unfamiliar pubs. Plus! Women THS Cover Band Names: Listener Submissions. ! Send us a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap To order Martin Fitzgerald's book: https://www.amazon.com/Ruth-Martins-Album-Martin-Fitzgerald/dp/1783527382 To order the new THE themed children's book: https://theholdsteady.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=6c47186abd0569f582ae12e8a&id=aa8e5c4843&e=51dd54068e

 There was a Hoodrat loose in The Electric Ballroom in London for "The Weekenders 2024." Join Gaspar on a whirlwind adventure through London in this week's episode of "The Weekender." From indulging in classic fish & chips to exploring the mystical aura of Stonehenge, Gaspar immerses himself in the essence of British culture. But the real highlight? A chance encounter between "The King of Queens" and none other than the King of England himself! Tune in for a dose of travel escapades and unexpected royal rendezvous. (51:42) "Get ready for another thrilling round as the guys roll the D&D dice in 'Diamonds in the Drain'! Tune in as they dive into another controversial round, dissecting the first three classic CD's. Don't miss out on the excitement and join us by submitting your choices on polls on Facebook, Spotify, and X! (106:33) Hidden Track: Fun England based monikers :) Please send us a voicemail at: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap Please check out the amazing travel photos by Cat! https://www.instagram.com/go_rubber_chicken_go/

 Step into the wild world of Lifter Puller with Steve Barone as he shares riveting backstage stories, including the secrets of the "Jenny Jones Show" and a memorable scuffle over inflatable instruments at Prince's nightclub. Dive into the aftermath of the band's breakup as Steve recounts his struggle with lost identity. Plus, discover the uproarious saga behind the "original lyrics" of Space Humpin $19.99.  Then, brace yourself for round two of "Diamonds in the Drain…Dirty Dozen Edition," where tough choices await as we award gold, silver, and bronze medals to standout tracks from the first three THS CDs.  Tune in for a dose of music history and hilarity!

In this episode, we dive into the creative realm with artist Nick Hollermon, renowned for his work on rock posters and album covers, particularly for “The Hold Steady.” Join us as Nick passionately shares insights into his artistic process, from finding inspiration to infusing intricate details that add a touch of fun to each masterpiece. Get ready for a behind-the-scenes journey into the world of visual storytelling in "The Hold Steady!" (44:25) In this thrilling 3.0 edition, we roll the D&D dice to determine the track number for our musical showdown – “Diamonds in the Drain.” Join us as we dissect classic THS songs—off the first four albums awarding them coveted titles of “gold,” “silver,” “bronze,” or banishing them “off the podium.” The competition is fierce, and you have the power to sway the rankings. Cast your vote on our Facebook, Twitter, or Spotify page to influence the fate of these timeless tunes. Let the games begin! Click here to send us a voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Join former Roller Derby Girls Cat and Beth as they whip in to share tales of life on the road with "The Hold Steady." (25:44) The gang engages in an enlightened round of the new game "The numbers never lie, but they also never tell the whole truth." (35:45) Gasper presents a mystery in "Rock Problems," challenging the group to solve it.  (39:00) Plus, Beth reheats up the meatloaf conversation with a round of "From Meatloaf to the Billy Joel"  Please send us a voicemail today at:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

 Massive Nights 2023!. The mosh pit never stopped there were just too many kids at the show! Taylor Swift bracelets got nothing on THS brackets. Is a “Hoodrat” still riding around Brooklyn in a trunk? Your fan reaction (23:30) A Yeti takes the stage. Special Exclusive Interview!... (after the closing credits just like a Marvel movie)...(1:00:29) We want to hear you! Send us a voicemail at https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Josh and Kat share their adventures in Vegas, including bowling, brunch, and a book signing via our “Answering Machine”  Discover who's going to be the "American Hoodrat in London?”  Mike makes wild predictions about the upcoming "Massive Nights" shows, and Hurricane Jess plays a fun round of "I said a couple of things that aren't technically true."  Find out why Mike doesn't wear his barefoot shoes by Joe Pesci and enjoy some "Poster Easter Egg" fun with Andrew from Australia.

In this episode, we have a special guest, (6:25) Michael Hann, author of "The Gospel of The Hold Steady: How a Resurrection Really Feels." We dive headfirst into his fandom and deep insider insights, answering questions submitted by our listeners. Plus, stay tuned for an exciting return as Hurricane Jess shares the details of her unforgettable "First Night." And if you're a fan of Easter eggs, Andrew from Massachusetts (58:14) reveals all the hidden gems he discovered in Jess's new logo design. It's a bloody-brilliant episode you won't want to miss! Please check out Michael Hann's other works such as:  DENIM AND LEATHER: The Rise and Fall of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal Be like Andrew, and please leave us a voicemail at: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

(3:04) We review the biggest THS show ever! Mike explains why this show was unique and unlike any other show the boys have ever played. Also, Craig “tells a little truth tonight” at The Electric Fetus in Minneapolis. (28:34) New game…”I said a couple things that probably weren't technically true” (38:34) The final two  rounds of “Diamonds in the Drain”  Finally! We find out the album that had the most “Gold Medals” out of albums 7,8,9…. (1:00:03) Hear our first winner of the poster contest Lauren-- explain the hidden THS themed Easter Eggs she found! Please leave us a voicemail at: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

(02:33)Gaspar recaps The  Shine the Light Music Festival. Also, the early morning bus-ride up to “The Positive Jam Fest” Gaspar then interviews one of the opening acts: Oceanator. https://oceanator.surf/ (16:45) We chat with Hurricane Jess about her amazing THS inspired fan-art!  Check out the new show-art she designed for our podcast—and enter the contest to see if you can win a poster by answering with how many THS Easter eggs you find here: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap (40:00) In  “From Meatloaf To the Billy Joel” Jess tells us why everyone should listen to “Island Of Love.”  (42:49) Diamonds In the Drain Game! We continue to award Gold, Silver, & Bronze medals to the last three albums in the game that is sweeping the Unified Scene! (1:05:20) Andrew from Australia recaps “The Empty Bottle Show” & more from his visit to America. Please support this incredible charity at:https://www.tommybrullfoundation.org/shine-a-light-music-seriesSee Jess's incredible art work on Instagram at: jess.ismore Please leave us a comment or enter to win a fan-art poster designed by Hurricane Jess here:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Join us as we regale the adventures of Mike & Gaspar during a most excellent weekend in Chicago celebrating our favorite band. Sadly Kevin didn't join us and we did not make it to the Empty Bottle but hey, 2 Outta 3 Ain't Bad! (43:35) Also in this episode we play another round of Diamonds in the Drain. (58:00)And Chicago editions of "Who the Hell is Craig Singing about?" & "From Meatloaf To the Billy Joel." Send us a voicemail now! https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap Hear the selected "From Meatloaf To the Billy Joel" single here: https://open.spotify.com/track/5KB869ycQ5H23d7N8u0mor?si=JGBtWD3rRpGFl67-MXLsGQ

The Austin show did not go off without a hitch… (10:59) Buddy (An original “Woo  Crew” warrior) tells us the whole sordid affair at Stubb's.  Including taking a rain delay with dejected Goths, and scooting his way around downtown Austin. (35:31) Buddy's selection for “From Meatloaf to Billy Joel (41:27) We play another round of “Who the Hell is Craig Singing About.” (45:07) Round Two of “Diamonds in the Drain” Franz 2.0 edition. This episode is dedicated in memory of Knowlej Ra… Leave us a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

(4:37) Gaspar goes to Baltimore to see Craig play solo in somebody's living room at Club 603.(13:27) Trivia questions including “Who the hell is Craig singing about?”(21:42) Gaspar goes to see the band interviewed by Seth Meyers at Sawdust in Brooklyn and gains great insights--including the story behind Craig's new “safe for TV lyrics.”(29:13) Kevin & Gaspar drive to the Boston show “Thelma & Louise style” where Kevin makes some keen observations about the opining band Dinosaur Jr, as well as the Boston crowd's confetti-game.(41:51) “Diamonds In the Drain Game—Franz 2.0 Edition”“Thrashing Through the Passion,” “Open Door Policy,” and “The Price Of Progress” battle it out for a Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medal in in a track by track—death match round 1...(56:25) Gaspar attends The Whiskey X event and asks Craig to clarify a question about the meaning of “Sixers.”Please leave us a voicemail now at: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Ella and Kyle report  from inside the eye of the storm—that  was the great Portland Confetti conspiracy of 2023. Ella teaches us how to win over a club owner by sticking around to help sweep up after the show. Kyle clues us in on the best ways to move large amounts of confetti through TSA… Hot topics also include: What did the crowd think of the new songs live?As well as a controversial look at “what is the proper “Hold Steady adjacent "apparel to wear at the show?” Send us a voice mail at anytime: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap Please support friend of the show and Massive Nights Soundman Knowlej RA at: The Waiting Room at GoFundMe

Is TPOP a Grower…Or a Shower? We hear from you! The Unified Scene calls into our answering machine and let's us know what they are thinking about the ninth album “The Price Of Progress.” Gaspar also does his best “man on the street” interviews at the NYC “Rough Trade” show! If you want to hear yourself on our next episode just click here: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap

Gaspar, Kevin, and Mike breakdown their first hours spent with the evolved sound of the ninth studio album "The Price of Progress." We want to hear YOUR VOICE on our full recap episode next week. Just click https://www.speakpipe.com/TheHoodratRecap And leave a message 30 seconds to 5 minutes long and you will hear yourself on the next episode. Please include your name and where you are from. C'mon Unified Scene! Let the world know how you are feeling about this new album!

Rob from London and Dallas from Texas talk “square-bags,” as well as  a strange sound check request. They also “ remember the metal bar” and reflect on a weekend with all the eccentricity that is London.

Funk-filled-first-thoughts on Understudies release! We breakdown our earliest thoughts on this genre-bending song. Asking the tough questions like what was really going in the back of the bakery?

Not only is Andrew a fan of The Hold Steady. He is also an enthusiast of the vast Melbourne music scene. So much so, he is in fact writing a book about it. Join us as we talk to Andrew--a Moto podcaster and Australian Rules Football author. Also, Gasper, Kevin is Whenever, and Stage-Right-Mike talk the release of the new single Sixer's!

Desi and Kayleigh from “The Hold Steady is for Women” join us for a special Valentine's Day episode to chat all about “The Unified Dating Scene.” We discuss such hot topics as: * “Must the Boys and Girls in America have such a sad time together? * In the end will anyone learn a lesson? * Is “Chill Out Tent” more than a hookup song? Plus, we break down the 20th anniversary show from the POV inside the pit! Please check out “The Hold Steady is For Women” @steadyladies

We have a new single, "Sideways Skull" to chat about! We also speculate about the forthcoming album "The Price of Progress." "Upright Mike" thinks it may be the shortest album ever by THS-- but "Kevin Is Whenever" quickly fact checks him with a somewhat surprising answer. Gaspar aka "Run GMC" gets the title of a major "Mountain Goats" song wrong, and the gang has to quickly correct him. Then we play a new trivia game titled either "Who the Hell Is Craig Singing About Now?" or "The Hold Steady Almost Quizzed Me"

From his home town in Louisiana to starting his engineering and sound career in NYC and creating his own music as a recording artist, Knowlej Ra has lived a life reaching through the speakers trying to hold on to the quarter notes. Get to know the man behind "Massive Nights" as we sit down with Knowlej Ra to talk The Hold Steady, moshing with Mosh Pit Josh, and experiencing the fandom of the "Unified Scene" from his unique view from the stage. Listen now as Knowlej enthusiastically describes exactly what he means when he says "We...Are...All..." Check out all things Knowlej at https://www.knowlejra.com/

We had some massive nights, every song was right. We review all four nights of the 2022 Brooklyn Bowl shows. We hear from you, “the kids at the shows” and even the Brooklyn Bowl staff members themselves. Immerse yourself in the “Party Pit” where “The dance floor was crowded, the bathrooms were worse” and the confetti swirled down like a holiday blizzard as we woke up in New York City. Note: If we recorded you at the show and you are yet to hear yourself make sure you listen all the way until the end (Killer Parties) section.

We are on the ground at Brooklyn Bowl—getting your reactions to Massive Nights and “The So Much Joy” of it all. Check out this Mini-Episode and submerge yourself smack into the middle of the Party Pit on nights one and two. Also stay tuned for a longer form episode covering all the festivities of this years Massive Nights coming soon!

Steve Selvidge is here to talk about his new project Mem_Mods with longtime friends Luther Dickinson and Paul Taylor. Steve explains how this album was recorded entirely via remote during lockdown. It's the first album to be released on Peabody Records-the legendary record label owned by his father, that Steve has recently restarted. Steve goes on to talk about his favorite venues that the Hold Steady have played at, Massive Nights, and discusses a little bit about the band's upcoming album. He also gives us insights into his guitar collection and explains just what exactly miffs him about the Sneaker app. Pre-order Mem_Mods new ablum now at: https://www.peabodyrecordco.com/mem_mods

This isn't a rave it's a podcast about Lifter Puller's last LP, "Fiestas & Fiascos."   It's producer "Kevin is Whenever's"  first listen to this Lifter Puller classic.  Did Craig succeed  in pulling off a concept album tied together with a narrative and reoccurring characters (Night Club Dwight, The Eye Patch Guy, Juanita...?)  We try to connect the dots on how this influenced the early THS albums. What sounds like THS and what sounds drastically different?  So push your little phone into podcast mode and crack open a cold beer...and don't worry if you are out of regular beer you can always get some 3-2...yes you can always get some 3-2... 

Superfan Lauren has seen the band over 50 times! Gaspar and Mike sit down to discuss the latest news from the Unified Scene with Lauren and producer "Kevin is Whenever."  We talk new songs and possible new album. Then, the four of us play a spirited round of "Diamonds In the Drain" in which the "dice gods" pit "Teeth Dreams" vs "Stay Positive" in a heated track vs track showdown.

Josh tells how he first became "Mosh Pit Josh," as well as how he had a crash course in learning the lyrics to "Stay Positive" (but not the second verse.) He then shares the hilarious story of a particular "Roadie's Friday" when he bit off more than he bargained for... Also, how does it feel to be "The Kid Camped Out at the Coat check"? And the holy-hell that is metal confetti.

Come along Jett-setting with Mike from Roanoke as he recaps Nashville, Atlanta, & the Denver shows.  Some highlights:  Hear tales of a sucker punched fan and “The Confetti Conspiracy of 2022.” In the "From Meatloaf to the Billy Joel" segment Mike spouts great things about the bands "Near Beer" and "The Henry Clay People."  This episode should be titled "Two Mike's and One DJ (Okay Most People Are DJ's but in this case it happens to be cohost Gaspar.)

Mike recap's the concert that left him speed-Googling “24- hour Saxophone lessons.” (I mean sunglasses on stage are sooo BA right?) Then, Gaspar makes a bold statement on Craig's powers at this stage of his career.

We recap the Melbourne shows with Christian. We talk “anti Moshing policy's” and take a walk through the vibrant music scene in Melbourne! Gaspar & Mike also talk about Craig's new podcast and mini art films supporting his new album.

Gaspar & Mike gush about Craig Finn”s new solo Album. We bravely stayed up until midnight to hear our “advanced copy” and boy was it worth it! We also listen to Craig,s Q&A session on Twitter.

Andrew from Toronto, breaks down the most recent Toronto shows! Andrew may be a newbie when it comes to THS fandom—but he made up for it by forcing himself to listen to all the albums in order, for two whole weeks, before moving on to the next album in the catalog. And let's not even get started on the spreadsheets he prepared for the live shows! He tells hilarious stories that make us wonder are Canadian audiences the politest ever? ***Also, Heather aka “The Queen of Queens” aka “Heather with the Henna on her hands, (but not really)” joins Gaspar and Mike to play play THS ice breakers & the new game “Diamonds in the Drain”

Gaspar & Mike breaK down their favorite THS bonus tracks & B-Sides…Next, in a brand new segment called “Catch My Riff” we ask the obvious question: will The Hold Steady ever escape from Eddie Money's shadow? Then we are once again joined by Dave from the UK as he recaps nights 2 & 3 from the recent London shows!