What the Riff?!?

Wayne riffs on the 2003 Remasters by AC/DC to be included in a subsequent box set Plug Me In from November 2003 (T.N.T. / Girls Got Rhythm / It's A Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'N' Roll) ). STAFF PICKS: It's My Life by No Doubt — Bruce Mr. Brightside by The Killers— Rob Falls On Me by Fuel — Lynch   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Christmas Medley from the motion picture Elf.   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the second studio album by Paula Cole This Fire from October 1996 (Tiger / Where Have All the Cowboy's Gone? / Hush, Hush, Hush / I Don't Want To Wait). STAFF PICKS: Who Will Save Your Soul by Jewel — Julie (friend of the show) Forty Six & 2 by Tool— Lynch Can't Get This Stuff No More by Van Halen — Rob   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main theme from the motion picture That Thing You Do.   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Rob riffs on the second greatest hits album by Van Halen Best of Both Worlds from February 2004 (Strung Out/Not Enough / It's About Time / Up for Breakfast / Learning to See). STAFF PICKS: Take Me Out by Franz Ferdinand — Lynch Unwell by Matchbox Twenty— friend of the show Julie Million Miles by Fuel — Bruce   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: I'll Be There For You by The Rembrandts (Main theme from the television series Friends).   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Rob riffs on the third studio album by Better Than Ezra Friction, Baby from September 1996 (Desperately Wanting / Speeding Up to Slow Down / Normal Town / King of New Orleans). STAFF PICKS: Stupid Girl by Garbage — Lynch But Anyway by Blues Traveler— Bruce Walls (Circus) by FTom Petty & the Heartbreakers — Rob   NOVELTY TRACK: Macerena by Los del Rio.   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Wayne is out on the campaign trail, but Lynch riffs on the second studio album by the Foo Fighters The Colour and the Shape from May 1997 (Everlong / Monkey Wrench / My Hero / Walking After You). STAFF PICKS: Little Wonder by David Bowie — Rob Little White Lie by Sammy Hagar— Bruce 6 Underground by Sneaker Pumps — Lynch   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: "Soul Bossa Nova" (Main theme from the motion picture Austin Powers:  International Man of Mystery).   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the sixth solo studio album by Sting Brand New Day from September 1999 (After The Rain Has Fallen / Desert Rose / Fill Her Up / Brand New Day). STAFF PICKS: All Star by Smash Mouth — Wayne Higher by Creed— Rob The Rockafeller Skank by Fatboy Slim — Brian   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main theme from the television series The West Wing.   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Wayne riffs on the third studio album by Jane's Addiction,  Strays from August 2003 (Strays / Everybody's Friend / Just Because / Price I Pay).   STAFF PICKS: Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes — Rob. The Boys of Summer by The Ataris— Bruce Stacy's Mom by Fountains of Wayne — Brian   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Reload by Rob Zombie (from the motion picture The Matrix Reloaded )   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Rob riffs on the third studio album By Alice in Chains, eponymously named “Alice in Chains” from April 1996 (Heaven Beside You / Again / Grind / Over Now).   STAFF PICKS: A Walk by Bad Religion — Wayne Hey Man, Nice Shot by Filter — Lynch Too Much by Dave Matthews Band — Bruce   INSTRUMENTAL TRACK: Waiting (Phase Two) by Porcupine Tree. **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Lynch riffs on the debut solo studio album from Chris Cornell, Euphoria Morning, recorded in October 1998 (Flutter Girl / Can't Change Me / Preaching the End of the World / Mission).   STAFF PICKS: Whacha Gonna Do? by Cowboy Mouth — Wayne Teardrop by Massive Attack — Rob. My Father's Eyes by Eric Clapton — Clint Barret (friend of the show).   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: What is Love by Haddaway (from the motion picture A Night at the Roxbury. **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the eighteenth studio album by Santana “Supernatural” from June 1999 (Love of My Life / Corazon / Maria Maria / Smooth).   STAFF PICKS: Let Forever Be by The Chemical Brothers — Rob The Kids Aren't Alright by The Offspring — Wayne Zip-Lock by Lit — Lynch.   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Wild Wild West by Will Smith (from the motion picture "Wild Wild West").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Wayne riffs on the compilation album from Styx entitled “Greatest Hits, part 2” from June of 1996 (Light Up / Mademoiselle / A.D. 1928 / Rockin' the Paradise).   STAFF PICKS: Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth with Money in My Hand by Primitive Radio Gods — Bruce Pepper by Butthole Surfers — Rob. All I Know by Screaming Trees — Lynch   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main Title Theme from the motion picture “Mission Impossible." **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Friend of the Show Clinton Barrett riffs on the dark 4th album from Tool entitled "10,000 Days" a ROGUE album outside our timeframe from May of 2006 (Vicarious / Jambi / The Pot).   STAFF PICKS: Original Fire by Audioslave — Lynch The Kill (Bury Me) by Thirty Seconds to Mars — Rob Woman by Wolfmother — Wayne   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: The Kraken, by Hans Zimmer (from the motion picture Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest)   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Lynch riffs on the debut studio album from Bush entitled Sixteen Stone from January of 1995 (Machinehead / Everything Zen / Comedown / Glycerine). STAFF PICKS: Dancing Days by Stone Temple Pilots — Rob She's A River by Simple Minds — Bruce Stand Up by Thunder — Wayne.    ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Whiney Whiney (What Really Drives Me Crazy) by Will One Blood (from the motion picture "Dumb & Dumber").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the debut studio album from Natalie Merchant “Tigerlily” from July 1995 (San Andreas Fault / Wonder / Jealousy / Carnival). STAFF PICKS: Waydown by Catherine Wheel — Lynch Wynona's Big Brown Beaver by Primus — Rob I Walked by Wanderlust — Wayne   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main Theme from the motion picture "Apollo 13" **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Rob riffs on the third studio album by Hole “Celebrity Skin” from September 1998 (Celebrity Skin / Awful / Hit So Hard / Malibu). STAFF PICKS: Fire Escape by Fastball — Wayne. Somehow, Somewhere, Someway by Kenny Wayne Shepherd — Bruce Freak of the Week by Marvelous 3 — Lynch   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: I Don't Want to Miss a Thing by Aerosmith (from the motion picture "Armageddon").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Wayne riffs on the Soundtrack from the comedy motion picture “Anchorman” from December 2004 (Sunshine (Go Away Today) by Jonathan Edwards / Treat Her LIke a Lady by Cornelius Brothers & Sister Rose / Groovy Situation by Gene Chandler / Afternoon Delight by the "Anchorman" cast).   STAFF PICKS: The Reason by Hoobastank — Bruce. Heaven by Los Lonely Boys — Rob Cold by Crossfade — Lynch ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “If” by Bread (from the motion picture "Anchorman").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Lynch riffs on the fifth studio album from The Mighty Mighty Bosstones entitled Let's Face It from March of 1997 (Let's Face It / The Rascal King / Desensitized / Noise Brigade). STAFF PICKS: Barely Breathing by The Duncan Sheik — Bruce. The New Pollution by Beck — Rob I Want You by Savage Garden — Wayne   INSTRUMENTAL TRACK: Slowblow by Depeche Mode   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Rob riffs on the sixth studio album from the Goo Goo Dolls Dizzy Up the Girl from December 1998 (Slide / Broadway / Iris / Bullet Proof). What the Riff?!? Lead Sponsor Frank Therrien joins us from Georgia Lighting for this episode.   STAFF PICKS: Given to Fly by Pearl Jam — Lynch  Turn It Up by Moon Dog Mane — Wayne  Lullaby by Shawn Mullins — Bruce Got You Where I Want You  by The Flies — Frank Therrien     ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Frostbite by Trevor Rabin (from the motion picture "Jack Frost").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Show sponsor Frank Therrien of Georgia Lighting joins us to riff on the fifth studio album from Toad the Wet Sprocket - Coil from April of 1997 (Rings / Come Down / Crazy Life / Throw It All Away). STAFF PICKS:   If You Could Only See by Tonic — Wayne Song 2  by Blur— Rob The Impression That I Get by the Mighty Mighty Bosstones — Bruce Bound for the Floor by Local H - Lynch   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Hey Bulldog by Toad the Wet Sprocket (from the motion picture "I Know What You Did Last Summer").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the seventeenth studio album by Rush, Vapor Trails from May 2002 (One Little Victory / Ghost Rider / Vapor Trail / Earthshine). STAFF PICKS: Clap Your Hands by They Might Be Giants — Wayne We Are All Made of Stars by Moby — Rob By The Way by the Red Hot Chili Peppers — Lynch   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main theme from the motion picture Spider Man.

Lynch riffs on the third studio album from Creed entitled Weathered from January 2002 (My Sacrifice / One Last Breath / Bullets / Freedom Fighter). STAFF PICKS: Dreamer by Ozzy Osbourne — Rob Standing Still by Jewel — Bruce You Don't Bring Me Flowers by Neil Diamond & Barbara Streisand — Wayne   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Half Light by tomanandy & Low (from the motion picture “The Mothman Prophesies”). 

Wayne riffs on the sole studio album by Page and Plant, “Walking into Clarksdale,” from June 1998 (Shining the Light / Most High / Please Read the Letter / Whiskey from the Glass).     STAFF PICKS: One Week by the Barenaked Ladies — Lynch Lucky Man by The Verve — Bruce. My Own Worst Enemy by Lit — Rob.     ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main theme from "Sex and the City."

Lynch riffs on the seventh studio album from Metallica, Reload from December 1997 (Better Than You / The Memory Remains / Fuel). STAFF PICKS: Save Tonight by Eagle Eye Cherry — Rob Sex & Candy by Marcy Playground — Wayne Walkin' On the Sun by Smash Mouth — Bruce. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Street Life by Randy Crawford (from the motion picture "Jackie Brown"). **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the fourth studio album by David Gray, "White Ladder,” from November 1998 (Please Forgive Me / Sail Away / My Oh My / Babylon).   STAFF PICKS: Flagpole Sitta by Harvey Danger — Wayne Turn the Page by Metallica — Rob Dragula by Rob Zombie — Greg   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main theme from the television series Animaniacs. **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Rob riffs on the fourth studio album by the Foo Fighters, One by One, from October 2002 (Times Like These / Overdrive / Low / All My Life).   STAFF PICKS: The Middle by Jimmy Eat World — Wayne Get Over It by OK Go — Bruce Prayer by Disturbed — Greg   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Main theme from the motion picture "Red Dragon".   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Lynch riffs on the third studio album from 311, eponymously entitled 311 from January 1997 (All Mixed Up / Misdirected Hostility / Don't Stay Home / Down). STAFF PICKS: The Freshmen by The Verve Pipe — Rob. The Distance by Cake — Wayne. Van Halen by Nerf Herder — Bruce.     NOVELTY TRACK: Enter Sandman by Pat Boone.  

Wayne riffs on the fourth album in the Alive series by Kiss, Kiss Symphony:  Alive IV, from December 2000 (Lick It Up / Calling Dr. Love / Love Gun / Detroit Rock City). STAFF PICKS: “Are You There” by Oleander — Lynch. “If You're Gone” by Matchbox Twenty — Rob. "Hanging By a Moment” by Lifehouse — Bruce.   "Hemorrhage (In My Hands) - Fuel - Julie Doran.   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: "He Carves the Roast Beast" (from the motion picture "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"). 

Guest Host Julie Doran riffs on the third studio album by Alanis Morissette, Jagged Little Pill from June 1995 (You Oughta Know / Ironic / Hand in My Pocket / Head Over Feet). STAFF PICKS: “Lightning Crashes” by Live — Rob. “Tomorrow” by Silverchair — Lynch. “Mockingbird Girl” by Magnificent Bastards - Wayne.  “No More ‘I Love You's'” by Annie Lennox — Bruce.   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me” by U2 (from the motion picture “Batman Forever”). 

MERRY CHRISTMAS!! What The Riff?!? hopes you enjoy our EIGHTH ANNUAL Christmas Rabbit Hole Episode in which we riff on the Christmas standards, classics, covers, and originals that make Christmas Rock! This year, we're covering: Little Drummer Boy - Joan Jett & The Blackhearts. Jingle Bell Rock - Daryl Hall & John Oates. I Believe In Stanta Claus - Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton. Please Daddy (Don't Get Drunk this Christmas) - John Denver. Last Christmas - Wham! White Christmas - Chicago. O Holy Night - Michael McDonald. Christmas at Ground Zero - "Wierd Al" Yankovic. Grown Up Christmas List - Amy Grant. Please Come Home for Christmas -Cheap Trick. Hard Candy Christmas - Dolly Parton. Redneck Christmas - Ray Stevens. All I Want for Christmas is You - Mariah Carey.

Rob riffs on the fifth studio album by No Doubt, “Rock Steady,” from December 2001 (Intro / Hella Good / Hey Baby / Platinum Blonde Life / Making Out). STAFF PICKS: “Blurry” by Puddle of Mudd — Lynch. “In Too Deep” by Sum 41 — Bruce.   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “A Kaleidoscope of Mathematics” (from the motion picture "A Beautiful Mind"). 

Bruce riffs on the seventh studio album by Porcupine Tree, “In Absentia,” from September 2002 (Wedding Nails / Trains / The Sound of Muzak / Blackest Eyes). STAFF PICKS: “Anger Rising” by Jerry Cantrell — Rob. “Fine Again” by Seether — Lynch. “Complicated” by Avril Lavigne — Bruce. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “The Ballad of Serenity” (from the television series Firefly). 

Wayne riffs on the fourth studio album by Kid Rock, "Devil Without a Cause,” from August 1998 (Bawitdaba / I Am the Bullgod / Somebody's Gotta Feel This / Cowboy). STAFF PICKS: “Closing Time” by Semisonic — Bruce. “Blue on Black” by Kenny Wayne Shepherd — Rob. "Inside Out” by Eve 6 — Lynch. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “It's Not Over” by Mark Isham  (from the motion picture "Blade"). 

Lynch riffs on the debut studio album from Audioslave, eponymously entitled “Audioslave”from December 2002 (Cochise / Like a Stone / I am the Highway / Show Me How to Live).   STAFF PICKS: " “Weathered” by Creed — Bruce. “ “Bullitproof” by Pacifier — Wayne. “When I'm Gone” by 3 Doors Down — Rob. ENTERTAINMENT/LAUGH TRACK: “Evenstar” (from the motion picture "The Lord of the Rings:  The Two Towers"). 

Lynch riffs on the Third studio album by Sublime “Sublime” from February 1996 (What I Got / April 29, 1992 / Doin' Time / Santeria).   STAFF PICKS: “Aeroplane” by Red Hot Chili Peppers — Rob. “Fear of Falling” by The Badlees— Bruce. " “In the Meantime” by Spacehog — Wayne.   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Tuesday's Gone by Lynyrd Skynyrd (from the motion picture “Happy Gilmore”). 

Rob riffs on the fourth studio album by Collective Soul “Dosage” from March 1999 (Tremble for My Beloved / Heavy / Slow / Run).   STAFF PICKS: “You Get What You Give” by New Radicals — Lynch “Praise You” by Fatboy Slim— Bruce Why I'm Here” by Oleander — Wayne   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “Main Title/Trinity Infinity” (from the motion picture "The Matrix").  **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the second solo studio album by Mark Knopfler “Sailing to Philadelphia” from October 2000 (What It Is / Silvertown Blues / Do America / Sailing to Philadelphia). STAFF PICKS: "Absolutely (Story of a Girl)” by Nine Days — Lynch. “Hangin Around” by Counting Crows — Rob. "Beautiful Day” by U2 — Wayne. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK: “Frolic” by Luciano Michelini (from the TV Series "Curb Your Enthusiasm"). 

Lynch riffs on the third studio album by the Gin Blossoms, “Congratulations I'm Sorry,” which had its first single release in  January 1996 (Follow You Down / As Long As It Matters / Day Job / Til I Hear It from You). STAFF PICKS: “Breakfast At Tiffany's” by Deep Blue Something — Bruce. “Santa Monica” by Everclear — Wayne. "Miss Sarajevo” by Passengers (aka U2) — Rob. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:  "Beach Sequence" by Passengers   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Wayne riffs on the fourth studio album by Bowling for Soup, Drunk Enough to Dance, from August 2002 (I Don't Wanna Rock / Girl All the Bad Guys Want / Running from Your Dad / Emily). STAFF PICKS: “Without Me” by Eminem — Bruce “No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age — Rob "Downfall” by Trust Company — Lynch   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: "Feuer Frei!" by Rammstein (from the motion picture "XXX").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Rob riffs on the 11th studio album from Van Halen “Van Halen III” from March of 1998 (Without You / Fire in the Hole / One I Want / From Afar). STAFF PICKS: “Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba — Wayne. "The Way” by Fastball — Lynch. “Brick” by Ben Folds Five — Bruce. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “Uninvited” by Alanis Morissette (from the motion picture "City of Angels"). 

Bruce riffs on the fourth studio album from Cake “Comfort Eagle” from July 2001 (Love You Madly / Comfort Eagle / Long Line of Cars / Short Skirt/Long Jacket). STAFF PICKS: "Drops of Jupiter (Tell Me)” by Train — Rob. “Bodies” by Drowning Pool— Wayne. "Smooth Criminal” by Alien Ant Farm — Lynch. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK: “Acro Arena (Instrumental)” by Cake. 

Lynch riffs on the debut studio album from Matchbox 20 “Yourself or Someone Like You” on the charts in  November of 1996 (3AM / Push / Real World / Long Day). STAFF PICKS: “Big Chair” by Reacharound — Wayne.  “Rewind” by Better than Ezra — Rob.  "When You Love a Woman” by Journey— Clint Barrett.   ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “Space Jam” by Quad City DJ's (from the motion picture "Space Jam").   **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Wayne riffs on the debut studio album by Jet, Get Born, released in September 2003 (Rollover DJ /Are You Gonna Be My Girl / Get Me Outta Here / Cold Hard Bitch). STAFF PICKS: Weak and Powerless by A Perfect Circle — Lynch. In Da Club by 50 Cent — (Fan of the Show )Clint Barrett. One Big Holiday by My Morning Jacket — Rob. INSTRUMENTAL/ENTERTAINMENT/LAUGH TRACK: Main theme from the motion picture Once Upon a Time in Mexico. Disclaimer: What the Riff?!? is a music commentary and review podcast that highlights rock music through historical context, personal insights, and artist appreciation. We do not claim ownership of the songs featured, which remain the property of the original artists and rights holders. All music is used under the Fair Use doctrine for purposes of criticism, commentary, and education. We encourage our listeners to support the artists by purchasing and streaming their music legally.

Friend of the show, Greg Lyon riffs on the debut album by Disturbed, “The Sickness” from March 2000 (The Sickness / Voices / The Game / Stupify). STAFF PICKS: "Break Stuff” by Limp Bizkit — Wayne. “Kryptonite” by 3 Doors Down — Rob. "Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon — Lynch. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “The Final Destination Suite” from the motion picture "Final Destination". **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

Bruce riffs on the second studio album from Oasis (What's the Story) Morning Glory? on the charts in November 1995 (Champagne Supernova / Wonderwall / Morning Glory / Don't Look Back in Anger). STAFF PICKS: "Name” by Goo Goo Dolls — Wayne. “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette— Lynch. "See You On the Other Side” by Ozzy Osbourne — Rob. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK: “The Memory of Trees” by Enya. **(NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.)

R.E.M. put out a multitude of hits in college, modern, and alternative rock genres in the 80's and 90's.  By the time that Around the Sun, the group's 13th studio album was released, the band was experiencing changes in personnel and struggles with focus.  Drummer Bill Berry retired in 1997 and was replaced by Bill Reiflin.  While Reiflin would be the regular percussionist for the band until their dissolution in 2011, he would not be considered a member of the band like Peter Buck (guitar), Mike Mills (bass, keyboards), or Michael Stipe (vocals).  From a commercial standpoint the album was a success, going to number 13 on the Billboard 200 in the US, and topping the album chart in the UK.  However, critical reviews were more negative, and the band members would agree over time with Stipe and Mills stating that the album lacked focus.  Peter Buck was more critical, stating that the album shows that the band was bored with the material.  Many consider this the worst R.E.M. studio album the group produced. However, with the benefit of hindsight we think this album is due for a second look.  The songs are more adult-oriented than the bands hits from prior decades, yet maintain the distinctive R.E.M. sound.  There is a cleaner production on this album and clearer lyrics.Rob brings us a great debut folk rock album in this week's podcast.Leaving New YorkThe lead off track was also the lead single from the album.  It reached number 5 on the UK singles chart, making it the eleventh and last top-10 REM single in that country.  However, it was not heavily promoted and failed to crack the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the first US single from an REM studio album not to chart since 1985.  It has a somber tone.WanderlustThis was the fourth and final single from the album, and utilizes a complex time signature of 4/4 time in the verses and 7/4 in the chorus.  The title references the desire to travel, and not remain in one place for very long.  "I got my signals crossed.  It's overwhelming me because I'm all alone and I cant get back - get back with my wanderlust."AftermathThe second single from the album portrays a woman living in a daze after a breakup.  Overwhelmed by ruminations, she overfeeds the cat and underwaters the plants.  It went to number 15 on the US alternative rock chart and number 41 on the UK singles chart.  around the sunThe album contains a title track - a rarity on REM albums.  It begins with a soft acoustic guitar leading into pensive lyrics.  "Hold on world, 'cause you don't know what's coming.  Hold on world, 'cause I'm not jumping off.  Hold on to this boy a little longer, take another trip around the sun." STAFF PICKS:1985 by Bowling for SoupBruce starts the staff picks with a song about a middle-aged woman thinking about how things have changed since her glory days in 1985.  It is a cover song originally done by pop punk band SR-71, but made famous by the Bowling for Soup version.  It went to number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, and number 5 on the Adult Top 40.  Float On by Modest MouseLynch brings us a track that songwriter and band founder Isaac Brock says was consciously written to feel more positive than some of his previous work.  The lyrics are stoic - not getting caught up in the bad things, because good things are around the corner.  "Alright, already, we'll all float on."I Go Back by Kenny ChesneyWayne's flips the script on us by bringing a country song into the mix, but with lyrics that talk about listening to rock songs in the past.  With references to the Steve Miller Band, Billy Joel, Sunday church, Sunday lunch, and the death of a High School friend, Chesney recounts days gone by. COMEDY TRACK:Goofy Goober Rock by SpongeBob SquarePants"The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie" was released around this time, and included this parody of a Twisted Sister song.   Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?NXTGen”NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!?NXTGen does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Rob riffs on the 13th studio album from R.E.M. “Around the Sun” from September of 2004 (Leaving New York / Wanderlust / Aftermath / Around the Sun). STAFF PICKS: “1985” by Bowling for Soup — Bruce. "Float On” by Modest Mouse— Lynch.  “I Go Back” by Kenny Chesney — Wayne.  COMEDY TRACK: “Goofy Goober Rock” by SpongeBob SquarePants.

The Smashing Pumpkins were one of the most successful bands of the 1990s, both commercially and critically.  Their 30 million album sales worldwide makes a strong case for their importance to the alternative rock movement.  The band was formed in Chicago by guitarist James Iha, bassist D'arcy Wretzky, percussionist Jimmy Chamberlin, and frontman/guitarist Billy Corgan.  Corgan writes much of their material and has been the sole member to be continuously present in the group since their formation.In 1995, Billy Corgan wrote about 56 songs and wanted to creat a double album.  His vision was for Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness to be "The Wall for Generation X."  The album was intended to be a conceptual piece portraying the cycle of life and death.  The band brought in Flood and Alan Moulder to co-produce the album.  Flood had the band change its routine for this album, having the group start recording in the rehearsal space rather than the studio in order to better capture their live sound.  He also required the band to set aside time in each day for just jamming and song writing in order to keep the process from becoming a grind.The result of this effort was both a critical and commercial success.  "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness" debuted at number 1 on the US Billboard 200, the only Smashing Pumpkins album to do so thus far.  The 28 songs spanning two CD's, and three vinyl LP's earned the band nominations in seven categories at the Grammy Awards, and the band won the Grammy for Best Hard Rock Performance with Vocal for the single "Bullet with Butterfly Wings."Lynch brings us this smashing multi-album for today's podcast. 1979The second single from the album features loops and samples, more of a synth-pop sound than had been present previously in Smashing Pumpkin songs.  According to Corgan, this song was the last of the 56 songs he wrote for the album.  The lyrics paint a picture of the transition from youth to adulthood, waiting for something to happen just around the corner.Bullet with Butterfly WingsThe lead single from the album was the band's first top 40 hit in the United States, reaching number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100.  Musically this track has a more grunge vibe than alt rock.  The lyrics are a somewhat overly dramatic portrayal of the pain that comes from being a rock star and the downsides of fame.ZeroThe shortest song on the album relates to a feeling of apathy, and being let down by emotions and spirituality.  "Intoxicated with the madness, I'm in love with my sadness."  Corrigan's signature look is a black shirt with the word "ZERO" printed on the front.Tonight, TonightThe symphonic orchestration of this song shows some of the diversity of the tracks on this album.  The inspiration for this song is Corgan's departure from Chicago to pursue his dreams, leaving an abusive childhood behind.  The Chicago Symphony Orchestra participated in the recording with a 30-piece string section.  This song went to number 36 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and number 7 on the UK Singles chart. STAFF PICKS:Downtown by Neil YoungRob open this week's staff picks with a grunge piece from the Godfather of Grunge.  Members of the band Pearl Jam provide the backing instrumentation for this song and the album "Mirror Ball."  The lyrics reference Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page, and hippies doing the Charleston and the Limbo.Lump by The Presidents of the United States of AmericaWayne's staff pick is about a woman who is on the singer's mind like a lump of cancer in his brain.  Clocking in at about 2 minutes, this is more of a punk song than alt rock or grunge.Hard as a Rock by AC/DCGregg brings us the first and most successful single from AC/DC's thirteenth studio album "Ballbreaker."  This album marks the return of drummer Phil Rudd to the band for the first time since 1983.  This song has a more blues-oriented sound than the heavy metal sound more typical of their well-known songs from the 80's.   LEI (Laugh/Entertainment/Instrumental)  TRACK:Main Theme from the motion picture "Strange Days"This science fiction film noir movie starring Ralph Fiennes and Angela Bassett takes us out of this week's podcast.   Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?NXTGen”NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!?NXTGen does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Lynch riffs on the third studio album from the Smashing Pumpkins, “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness” from October 1995 (1979 / Bullet with Butterfly Wings / Zero / Tonight, Tonight). STAFF PICKS: “Downtown” by Neil Young — Rob. “Lump” by The Presidents of the United States of America — Wayne. “Hard as a Rock” by AC/DC — Gregg. L/E/I TRACK: Main Theme from the motion picture "Strange Days". 

What the Riff!?! has finished covering every month from January 1965 to December 1994, and we are thrilled that you have listened with us as we review the great bands, songs, and happenings of this 30-year time span.  In this episode, we bring back Brian Dickhute, one of our co-founders of the podcast, and review what we have learned, experienced, and enjoyed about this period of songs and podcast.  We also feature a number of songs that were either missed in our coverage of the times, or that were important to us individually.Eruption by Van HalenWayne brings us this instrumental by Eddie Van Halen that announced the start of the Van Halen band on their first album.Long Live Rock by the WhoWayne's favorite group wrote this anthem to the genre.Black Hole Sun by SoundgardenLynch features a song that front man Chris Cornell wrote in about 15 minutes, inspired by a misheard statement from a TV weatherman.Creeping Death by MetallicaLynch brings us the first and only commercial single from Metallica's second album, "Ride the Lightning."Closer to the Heart by RushOf course Bruce is going to feature Rush in this last episode, in this case an anthem encouraging all to strive to live closer to the heart.Ridin' the Storm Out by REO SpeedwagonBruce thinks this song should have been featured earlier, and notes that the live version is much better than the studio set.  Mother by Pink FloydOne of Brian's favorite groups, this song is selected from "The Wall" album, chronicling Pink's descent into madness. Going to California by Led ZeppelinBrian's second selection this week is a ballad off the legendary fourth album, a song originally inspired by earthquakes in California.The One Thing by INXSRob's selection is the introduction most Americans had to this Australian band in 1982, and one of his favorite songs.Mr. Blue Sky by ELORob finishes off this celebration with one of the happiest rock songs you will hear, one he wants played at his funeral.  Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Although this album was the fourth  Elton John studio album, it was also the third album released in 1971.  John had released a film soundtrack album and a live album previously in the year.  Madman Across the Water is a more progressive album than his previous outings, containing nine tracks with all but the final track exceeding four minutes.  Elton John also had Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman sit in on the sessions for two of the tracks, playing Hammond organ.  Although it went to number 8 on the US Billboard 200 chart, it did not do as well in his native UK.  The mediocre results in England may be partly explained by the song lengths not fitting nicely into the 3-minute span typical of singles.  Nevertheless, the album contains two singles which would prove to be amongst John's greatest hits. Contemporary critics had mixed reactions to the prog rock bent of the album, with some finding the lyrics confusing and the album as a whole too deep for new fans.  As with much of the discography of music icons like Elton John, reviews would trend more positive over time. Madman Across the Water finds Elton John on the cusp of his ascent to superstardom, when his next several albums would trend towards a glam rock approach and would start regularly topping the charts.Original host Brian Dickhute returns to "What the Riff" studios to help us finish off our podcast series focusing on the Months from 1965 to 1995. Tiny DancerThe lead off track takes its inspiration from two places.  Generally, it is inspired by the spirit of the women Bernie Taupin met in California, and how their styles contrasted with those in the U.K at the time.  More specifically it references Maxine Feibelman, who really was the "seamstress for the band," and supported John's elaborate stage costume style.  Feibelman and Taupin were married in March 1971, with Elton John serving as best man.LevonThe first single from the album tells the story of Levon, a man who is successful in the family business, but trapped in his lifestyle.  "Levon wears his war wound like a crown."  This symphonic piece uses a backing orchestra written, arranged, and conducted by Paul Buckmaster.  Madman Across the WaterThe title track to the album was originally supposed to be a track on John's previous studio album, but it was rearranged for this album.  The lyrics are about a man in a coastal mental institution who doesn't know if he belongs there or not.  Many have speculated that Taupin wrote this about then President Richard Nixon, speculation to which Taupin responds, "That is genius.  I could never have thought of that."Indian SunsetThe story about an American Indian warrior on the verge of defeat was inspired by Frederic Remington painting and/or a visit that Bernie Taupin paid to a reservation.  John has stated that the song is not a protest song, but a story.  The opening acapella verse sets the wistful tone of the rest of the song. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Main theme from the children's television series “Electric Company""Hey you guys!"  This children's educational show debuted in 1971.   STAFF PICKS:Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey by Paul and Linda McCartneyBruce begins the staff picks with a song from "Ram," the only album attributed to Paul and Linda McCartney.  It reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1971, making it the first post-Beatles McCartney single to top the US charts.  It is actually a compilation of several song fragments assembled by engineer Eirik Wangberg.  The lyric "hands across the water/heads across the sky" refers to Linda and Paul being American and British.Rain Dance by the Guess WhoRob brings us a song penned by Burton Cummings and Kurt Winter which was the lead-off track from the Guess Who's eighth studio album, "So Long, Bannatyne."  Randy Bachman had departed the band by this time.  Many of the lyrics reference landmarks or businesses in their native Winnipeg, Canada.  You Say It by Al GreenWayne's staff pick is a fusion of funk and soul off Al Green's third studio album.  Green got his start at the age of nine in a gospel quartet. The lyrics from this song discuss the difficulties a guy has in picking up the phone to call his girl.  Al Green became a minister in 1976 and returned to gospel music in the mid-80's.I'd Love to Change the World by Ten Years AfterLynch features a song that is the sole top-40 single from the British blues rock group in the U.S., peaking at number 40 on the Billboard Hot 100.  The lyrics express the frustration of the counter culture movement in wanting to change the world, but realizing that solutions are harder to reach than thought.Gypsys, Tramps and Thieves by CherBrian finishes out the episode with a story from Cher. The lyrics are told from the perspective of a Gypsy girl born to a dancer in a traveling show.  When she is 16, she becomes pregnant from a young stranger who runs off, leaving her to raise a baby girl in the same situation as her mother raised her. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.