Podcast appearances and mentions of eric reanimator

Welcome to episode 60 of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition.Once upon a time, in the eighties,there were bands that were trying to warn us about what was to come. This time around Eric Reanimator talks about one of them. Queensryche, a progressive metal band who in 1990 hit the right spot between pop metal and alternative before falling on the hair metal side of fence. Did they deserve better? Do they hold up? Tune in and see what Eric has to say about them, and how their music affected his life and thinking.For those not aware, Eric will be finishing up The Compilation Edition after November, so these next couple of episodes will be very special. Tune in.Also for those not aware, LTA is now a part of the Pantheon Podcast network devoted exclusively to music related podcasts – plenty of them. Go to http://www.rocknrollarchaeology.com/ and discover shows about music books, music writers, rock and roll films, and history. There's some killer stuff there. Go over and find your new favourite shows.LTA will no longer be hosted by Podbean, but you should still be able to download it through all the other usual places you get your podcasts eg. Spotify, Stitcher or iTunes (search for “Love That Album podcast”). The regular LTA podcast is taking a break just for this month, but will be back in October for an episode about British band Cardiacs. In fact, subjects for the next 6 shows are already catered for – that's NEVER happened in the 8 years of the show. I must be growing up.....Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Welcome to episode 60 of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition. Once upon a time, in the eighties,there were bands that were trying to warn us about what was to come. This time around Eric Reanimator talks about one of them. Queensryche, a progressive metal band who in 1990 hit the right spot between pop metal and alternative before falling on the hair metal side of fence. Did they deserve better? Do they hold up? Tune in and see what Eric has to say about them, and how their music affected his life and thinking. For those not aware, Eric will be finishing up The Compilation Edition after November, so these next couple of episodes will be very special. Tune in. Also for those not aware, LTA is now a part of the Pantheon Podcast network devoted exclusively to music related podcasts – plenty of them. Go to http://www.rocknrollarchaeology.com/ and discover shows about music books, music writers, rock and roll films, and history. There's some killer stuff there. Go over and find your new favourite shows. LTA will no longer be hosted by Podbean, but you should still be able to download it through all the other usual places you get your podcasts eg. Spotify, Stitcher or iTunes (search for “Love That Album podcast”). The regular LTA podcast is taking a break just for this month, but will be back in October for an episode about British band Cardiacs. In fact, subjects for the next 6 shows are already catered for – that's NEVER happened in the 8 years of the show. I must be growing up..... Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.  If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

As lovers of pop and rock music, we probably all have favourite bands or performers from the Sixties era: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Doors, The Who, The Beach Boys etc etc. Wonderful acts all worthy of our attention. There's a problem....and it's not ubiquity. In focusing on these bands (and other iconic names), there's so many great musical acts who we never paid attention to or have completely forgotten about.   Welcome to episode 126 of Love That Album podcast.   In 1972, music writer (and future guitarist for Patti Smith Band) Lenny Kaye created a hugely influential compilation for Elektra Records called Nuggets: Original Artyfacts from the First Psychedelic Era, 1965–1968 (to be referred to from here as just Nuggets). It contained 27 forgotten-about pop and short form psychedelic songs. Most of these songs were gems waiting to be rediscovered by music lovers who had become used to other things: Laurel Canyon songwriters, prog, hard rock / proto metal. Many of the songs we have now come to know as "garage rock" were not remembered or appreciated. Lenny Kaye wanted to change that.   Since its original release, there have been a large number of similar compilations, carefully curated from regional one-off hits or great songs that went nowhere. Some comps are even assembled by fans from their extensive 45s collection to share with others. In 1998, Nuggets was expanded to a 4 CD box set containing about 120 songs and a comprehensive book.   For this very special episode, I am joined by Eric Reanimator (host of LTA: The Compilation Edition) to talk about our love of Nuggets. The first half of the show is devoted to our discovery of this music, Lenny Kaye's history, and why this collection is so important to the history of rock and pop. In the second part of the show, we nominate 10 songs from the box set to talk about in detail, their own history and legacy. The beauty of this collection is its diversity. Sure there are songs with fuzzed out guitars that may have been created under the influence of certain substances, but there's glorious harmony laden pop, swaggering blues rock, and wild wig-outs....all from bands you may not know, but may be your next favourite listening experience.    Huge thanks to Eric for joining me on this episode and for all the wonderful episodes he's contributed to LTA over the years.   You can download the show from Spotify, Stitcher or iTunes (search for “Love That Album podcast”) or from the website lovethatalbum.podbean.com   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.   If you’d consider writing an iTunes review we’d be immensely grateful. However, it’d be even better if you told a friend about the podcast – at a barbecue, over coffee, while hitting a six, on social media….whatever way you choose, consider me grateful.   If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Eric Reanimator is back for another episode of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition. For episode 56, he wants to talk with you about two superb box sets from Rhino Records (the Criterion of CD reissue labels). Firstly, Eric discusses the vocal wonderfulness that is The Doo Wop Box. Come on.....every body loves even a little Doo Wop...it makes you smile no matter how shitty the world can get. How can you NOT smile at great songs like Goodnite Sweetheart, Teenager In Love, Barbara Ann or a ton of other more obscure nuggets?  Then, just for something different, Eric discusses punk......well sorta kinda....Eric turns his gaze onto another great Rhino set called Rockin' Bones: 1950s Punk and Rockabilly. As he always says, it's about the energy, and there's a ton of it on this box. Songs from the iconic to the 1-song-wonders - Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly to Pat Cupp and Benny Joy. It's a great celebration of when rock was young and raucous. Eric will tell you why you need this music in your life. He also presents his thoughts on the demise of the box set brought on by technology. Spotify and Youtube playlists make this inevitable. While Eric laments the redundancy of the CD box in 2019, he has an interesting suggestion to CD companies about distribution of the fascinating books that always made the boxes an essential part of any music lover's collection. You can download the show from Spotify, Stitcher or iTunes (search for “Love That Album podcast”) or from the website at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.   If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, we’d be immensely grateful.   If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.  

  According to the Collins Dictionary website (because I don't have a physical dictionary handy), “evolution” is “a process of gradual development in a particular situation or thing over a period of time.” There could not be a more apt title for the name of the debut album by Newcastle band, Tamam Shud.   For episode 115 of Love That Album podcast, I am once again joined by music journalist and author of The Encyclopedia of Australian Rock and Pop, Ian Mcfarlane, to talk about psychedelic prog-rock (and some suggest surf) band Tamam Shud and their debut album Evolution. They'd formed several years prior as The 4 Strangers, then changing their name to The Sunsets. The general consensus was that they made surf music, though singer songwriter Lindsay Bjerre has never placed much stock in that description. What is indisputable is that they provided the soundtrack for surf movies directed by Paul Witzig. When the late sixties counter-culture turned its musical ears to the sounds from the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Cream, and Jefferson Airplane, The Sunsets changed their sound and name and evolved to Tamam Shud (and they continued to evolve beyond that point as well). They were a highly charged and exciting band.   Ian and I discuss the history of the band and it's place in Australian rock history, as well as the album itself. Evolution was recorded in only a couple of hours It took almost as long to record the podcast!  We also talk about how the band changed its sound drastically just a couple of years later with its contributions to the soundtrack to Morning Of The Earth, regarded as one of the greatest surf films of the era.   But wait....there's more. Ian has been a regular writer of liner notes for the wonderful Australian archival label, Aztec Records. We spend time discussing some recent re-releases on the label, as well as a hugely important box set of sixties pop material from the independent label Go! Records. Gotta tell you folks, I considered myself schooled after this episode in Australian music history. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did recording it.   If you've been following the Facebook page, notes or are regularly subscribed to the podcast, you'd know that Eric Reanimator is taking a break from the show, so my great friend David Blom has elected to do a couple of Album I Love segments. This show around, he talks about the debut EP from Kevin Parker (aka Tame Impala). I always thought Innerspeaker was debut album, but there was an EP that came before that, and Dave brings his thoughts about why you need to have it in your life. Thanks for the segment, Dave.   You can download the show from iTunes (search for “Love That Album podcast”) or from the website at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.   You can (and should) order a copy of Ian's brilliant encyclopedia from https://www.thirdstonepress.com.au/ The site also features an archive of Ian's liner notes for a number of the Aztec releases....all hugely informative. My thanks for his support of the podcast.   You can send me feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.   If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, we’d be immensely grateful.   If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.  

It’s time for episode 110 of Love That Album podcast. In terms of status, the Monty Python crew are like rock stars. How big? When they have musicians like Led Zeppelin and George Harrison ready to bankroll their projects, you know they were bigger than Brian…..Their routines are quoted like song lyrics. In the comedy world, their material is ubiquitous. It could be argued they went from fighting the establishment to becoming the establishment…..which is very rock star. For this episode of the show, the great Ben Eisen of the All Time Top Ten podcast joins Maurice to wax lyrical about the collection of Monty Python songs called Monty Python Sings. Do the songs work outside of the context of the sketches they were often a part of? Was performing these songs in the early seventies in a music-hall / stage musical fashion more counter culture than the rock music of the day? Does an African or European swallow have the greater air speed velocity? Ben and Maurice give answering these questions a shot. Eric Reanimator chimes in with his own comedy album selection. For his Album I Love segment, he talks about The Very Best of Dr Demento. Does he concur that dead puppies aren’t much fun? Tune in and find out. A huge thanks to Ben for returning to the show. How grateful am I? Let me count (down) the ways....You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. You can (and definitely SHOULD) listen to the most recent 15 episodes of All Time Top Ten podcast at http://alltimetopten.podomatic.com (or iTunes) or you can search through all the older episodes at http://mixcloud.com/beneisen  If you enjoy what you hear on the podcast, please tell a friend or ten to tune into the Love That Album.  

It's 2018....a new year, but Love That Album podcast is still here to party like it's 2011 when it got started. For episode 108, Maurice is presenting a solo show to talk about a pair of tribute albums. Tribute albums can be a fairly dodgy excuse to get a variety of performers to do a cover of the artist in question. These albums can lack cohesion and just be a collection of songs rather than a solid work in its own right. Often, some of the actual covers lack any real inspiration. Maurice presents two albums he feels stand apart from the tribute pack. The first is Till The Night Is Gone: A Tribute to Doc Pomus and Beat The Retreat: Songs By Richard Thompson. Tune in to hear why these albums work so well. The songs presented by a wealth of great songwriting contemporaries combine adventurous arrangements some distance from the familiar versions, along with " comfort food" arrangements. Eric Reanimator chimes in for his Album I Love segment with a couple of tribute albums. He talks about Never Say Dinosaur, a tribute to Petra and More Oar: A Tribute to Skip Spence. So let us pay tribute to these tribute albums, and hopefully you'll pay tribute to the podcast by giving it a listen. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.   If you enjoy what you hear on the podcast, please tell a friend or ten to tune into the podcast.

What happens when a music broadcaster, an author, a record store owner and a journalist all walk into a podcast? (Yeah, I know it would sound better if it were a bar…..) You get Love That Album podcast episode 106. I am joined by four fine gentlemen with diverse knowledge, taste and appreciation for great music and want to recommend what rocked their world this year. They are Billy Pinnell (ex Triple M album show), Ian Macfarlane (author of The Encyclopedia of Australian Rock and Pop), Pat Monaghan (proprietor of Rocksteady Records) and Jeff Jenkins (music journalist and author). I spoke with each of them separately and have them tell me the favourite albums they heard for the first time this year. I am honoured that these fellow music fanatics, who have all had a hand in shaping what I’ve listened to over the years, graced my little podcast with their time and thoughts. A huge thanks to them all. Looking ahead to episode 107 (out in the week following Christmas), I will be joined by my great friend and See Hear podcast co-host Tim Merill, as well as LTA: The Compilation Edition host, Eric Reanimator to discuss our favourite first-time listens of 2017. We’d LOVE to read out and discuss your favourite music of the year. Send written feedback or recorded mp3 to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. If you enjoy what you hear on the podcast, please tell a friend or ten to tune into the podcast.

Welcome to episode 105 of Love That Album podcast.   It’s been a while since we’ve had a double header on the podcast, but this time around we’re doing just that. My very special guest is the charismatic and semi-regular co-host of the All Time Top Ten podcast, David Daskal. He pointed out that since it had been a while from him previously joining me on LTA, we needed to talk about TWO albums to make up for that time.   We start off with a conversation about the 1994 album from indie rock band The Grays, “Ro Sham Bo”. The band included two ex-members of Jellyfish, Jason Falkner and Jon Brion. With such a pedigree in melodicism, why was this album not huge? We try to make sense of it.   Then Dave and I put on our leisure suits and strut our collective stuff to the 1976 debut album “Too Hot To Handle” by the band Heatwave. Their songwriter Rod Temperton went on to write songs for one of the biggest selling records in pop history. Is “Too Hot to Handle” actually that? Not only do we give our thoughts, but the gentlemanly Will Smith of the Gentleman’s Guide to Midnite Cinema podcast contributes his thoughts about Heatwave. DIG IT!!!!!   How the hell was Eric Reanimator going to find common ground between Heatwave and The Grays for his Album I Love segment? By talking about Men Without Hats, of course….so obvious.   Huge thanks to the wonderful Dave, Will and Eric for being so giving of their time.   You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.   You can hear previous episodes of All Time Top Ten with David Daskal by going through the archives at https://www.mixcloud.com/beneisen/   You can hear Will (along with Sammy and Todd) bringing class to the trash (since 1977) at ggtmc.com or by searching for “Gentlemen’s Guide to Midnite Cinema” in iTunes. If you enjoy what you hear on the podcast, please tell a friend or ten to tune into the podcast.

Welcome to episode 104 of Love That Album podcast. I am joined once again by hard working musician and pop lover, Rhys Lett. He’d spent most of the night playing a gig and STILL found energy on a Sunday morning to talk about the music of Emitt Rhodes – that’s dedication. Since I’m a fan of great songwriters, people have expressed surprise that it took me until about a year ago or so to discover Rhodes’ music. LA based musician and producer Chris Price was discussing his involvement producing Rhodes’ 2016 comeback album “Rainbow Ends” on Ben Eisen’s All Time Top Ten podcast. Intrigued, I sought out his first solo album for ABC Dunhill, then bought Rainbow Ends when it was released. Rhys is a long-time fan of Emitt Rhodes music, so we were able to have an interesting discussion focusing on his early bands, his one-man-band albums from the early 70s, the frustrating history behind his reason to walk away from being a recording artist, and his connection to Gabe (Welcome Back Kotter) Kaplan. Most importantly, we discuss THE MUSIC (in theory, what this show is about). More specifically, we talk a little about Emitt Rhodes first (sort of) solo album and then contrast it to his comeback album of 2016, “Rainbow Ends”. Has Emitt changed his songwriting approach? How different does an album with great session musicians compare to albums recorded methodically by one man playing and singing all parts? These and other vitally life-important questions will be answered. Eric Reanimator’s Album I Love segment also focuses on a musician who started his career a long time ago. Eric Burdon’s 2013 album “ ’Til Your River Runs Dry” gets the Reanimator love. I’d like to give huge thanks to Rhys for joining me on the show with so little sleep (though you’d never know it). He’s a passionate music lover, and it was a joy to get his perspective. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. If you live in Melbourne and are after music lessons on any instrument, check out the school Rhys runs, The Eastern Suburbs School of Music at http://www.essm.net.au. You can also check out the school's Youtube page where Rhys enthusiastically and expertly provides guitar tuition videos at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3dn8-kFMo5RUcXp2h1ZRbg. If you enjoy what you hear on the podcast, please tell a friend or ten to tune into the podcast.  

Welcome to episode 103 of Love That Album podcast. In July 2017, I went with my family to the other side if the world - Canada to be precise - to take in the magnificent musical experience that is the Montreal Jazz Festival. We heard jazz fusion, free jazz,bop, soul, New Orleans funk, bluegrass.....and then there's the shimmering beauty that is the music of the Juno-winning British Columbian songwriter, Sienna Dahlen. Her performance with a rhythm section, a string section and a horn section in front of hundreds (maybe thousands) of music fans in the Place Des Arts was nothing short of breathtaking. I was astounded to learn that her latest album Ice Age Paradise, from which the concert material was sourced, was recorded in a mere two days. Upon my return to Australia, I contacted Sienna to discuss her album, her musical development, and winter.I was also fortunate that her father Laine was with her. Laine is an amazing artist and a songwriter to boot - one of his songs appears on Ice Age Paradise. It was a fascinating chat and I hope that you enjoy it and discovering her music. Eric Reanimator returns with his Album I Love segment to talk about Carla Bozulich and her track-for-track interpretation of the classic Willie Nelson album Red Headed Stranger (and Willie is so impressed, he even graces her with his presence on three songs). You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. You can order a download copy of Ice Age Paradise from https://siennadahlen1.bandcamp.com/releases or you can email her at siennadahlen@gmail.com to order a physical copy of the album (either CD or vinyl). Order a copy....you'll thank me later. Check out the amazing artwork and music of Laine Dahlen at https://www.lainedahlen.com/If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune into the podcast.

Welcome episode 101 of Love That Album podcast. Ian McFarlane is one of Australia’s most authoritative and respected music journalists and historians. He’s been writing about rock music for many years in newspapers like The Australian and Juke as well as fanzines like Prehistoric Sounds. In the 1990s he wrote the definitive guide to the history of Australian popular music, “The Encyclopedia of Australian Rock and Pop”, published by Allen and Unwin. Homes of rock fans had well thumbed copies of the book and in 2017, Ian has finally released the second edition of the encyclopedia to bring it up to date. I was thrilled to welcome Ian onto the show to discuss the book, his motivation for updating it in the internet era when facts (alternative or otherwise) can be found easily online, and some interesting details from our rock heritage. This must be the only book where attention will be given to both Delta Goodrem and The Lime Spiders, the Chantoozies and Radio Birdman. We then go on to talk about one of Ian’s most favourite rock albums, “Lost” by Sydney band Died Pretty. This was the second album from the band, and the discussion ranges from how it differs from their early work, the band’s punk and Paisley underground influences, how one of the greatest songwriters in the country (actually… in the world) improved one of their songs without even knowing who they were, and much much more. Eric Reanimator’s “Album I Love” segment focuses on a band from Arizona in the US called The Naked Prey and their record Under The Blue Marlin….not Australian, but musically a very compatible band to Died Pretty, so a worthy companion piece. I love doing this podcast, primarily for the great conversations I have with other folks who love music and know a lot about its history. Ian was a fantastic co-host in this regard, and I look forward to him coming back to the show again soon. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in. You can (and should) purchase a copy of Ian McFarlane's marvelous encyclopedia from https://www.thirdstonepress.com.au/#austrockpopone or wherever great books are sold (including the finer music stores).  

Bring out the fanfare music. Roll out the red carpet. …..or maybe just download the podcast….please…. Love That Album turns 100 episodes old. Back in 2011, I started the podcast to talk with folks about great records (and maybe a couple of not so great ones….). There have also been interviews with authors of music biographies, musicians, but at the heart of it, this has been a forum for me to chat with fellow music freaks about why we love the albums we do. Many more similar podcasts have been created in recent times, and I’m thrilled that the podcast format is being used to focus on my very favourite art form. I am joined by Geoff Smith (who has been a regular on the program from the very early days) and LTA-first-timer, Dave Anderson to discuss John Hiatt’s “Bring The Family” (an album that SHOULD have been the subject of a podcast back in episode 2 – we explain why it wasn’t, if you aren’t already familiar with the story). We discuss Hiatt history, early records, family tragedy, Little Village, the connection to James Reyne….and hamsters and amoebae (as you do)…..and a ton of other things. LTA stalwart Eric Reanimator brings his Album I Love segment to talk about the Glenn Danzig project, Samhain, and the album, Initium. Look, I wanted to make a big deal of the 100 episode milestone, but it’s business as usual (no…not the Men At Work record). HOWEVER, if you want to celebrate the show, PLEASE spread the word by either writing a review on iTunes or share this post on your social media platform of choice.I’d be mighty grateful. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Alt Rock... the early 90s style came from somewhere. Its incursion on MTV and Rock Radio didn’t come out of nowhere. It was just time for a change, but there were those who bridged the gap and moved the needle more left on the dial (‘Mats reference) and in many ways set the stage for the Pearl Jams, the Nirvanas, REMs and Alice In Chains of the world… and some of those bands were fans of these guys….     All of this is to say that Eric Reanimator is back talking once again about Queensryche, King’s X and Drivin’n’Cryin (don’t worry he will be back to Punk, Country and Country Punk soon enough). Anyway Eric talks about a time a quarter of a century ago when for a moment (mainly late 1990 and into 1991) those three bands made the charts, had a few hits and had videos on MTV. So sit back, strap yourself in, and time travel back to the early nineties.       You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com     Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum

Episode 99 of Love That Album podcast is available for your enjoyment….and I’m really happy with this one. For this episode, I present an interview I did with Chris Wilson on the 25th anniversary of his first album post-Crown of Thorns, Landlocked. Chris is a triple threat. He is among Australia’s greatest harmonica players (and has played on sessions for some of the greatest performers in Australian rock music). He has an incredible and distinctive baritone voice that can be mighty and booming or tender and gentle. Finally, he is the equal of any of the greatest songwriters in Australia with a gift for poetic but earthy lyrics and great melodies. If you’re a fan of Don Walker, Paul Kelly, or even Captain Beefheart or Tom Waits, you need to give Chris a listen. We spend some time talking about the 1992 album Landlocked, but also touch upon the Melbourne pub band scene of the era, his songwriting and blues heroes, and how Crowded House asked Chris to do something that invoked the displeasure of the great Vika Bull. Download the show to find out what it was. Eric Reanimator returns with his “Album I Love” segment to hip you to the country side of The Groovie Ghoulies in their guise as The Haints. He talks about their 2004 album Hurt & Alone. I hope you enjoy episode 99…..that’s one less than episode 100….which is next month….just puttin’ that out there…. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

It’s time to dust off the spandex, reglue the spikes onto your high heeled shoes and to find out the flame does indeed still burn for episode 39 of See Hear Podcast. This month, Tim, Bernard, and Maurice are joined by host of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition (and a gazillion other podcasts), Eric Reanimator to discuss the 1998 film Still Crazy penned by highly regarded English scriptwriters Dick Clement and Ian Le Frenais. A once-popular band reform 20 years after their last disastrous show. They have many unresolved issues, and need to know if at middle age, they still have something artistically valid to offer each other and the music listening public. The film boasts an all-star cast including Bill Nighy, Timothy Spall, Billy Connolly and Jimmy Nail. The crew discuss 70s songwriters, Live Aid, confidence, getting the horn, Harry Potter, and the so-called physical similarity between a cast member and a See Hear crew member. What did we think? Download and find out. Many thanks to Eric for requesting the film and for joining us to discuss it. You can download the show by searching for See Hear podcast on iTunes or download from http://seehear.podbean.com/ If you dig what we do, could you please rate us at iTunes or even better, spread the word that the show exists so more folks can tune in. Please join our friendly Facebook discussion group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/seehearpodcast You can send us emails at seehearpodcast@gmail.com to suggest films you'd like us to discuss, give us your thoughts on what we do or anything else music-film related.

So if 2016 were to sing The Angels’ “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again?”, what would you reply? Wrong!!! The answer is “I’ll let you know after I’ve listened to episode 97 of Love That Album podcast”.   It’s time for the annual roundup of favourite albums heard for the first time over the year. I’m joined by host of LTA: The Compilation Edition, Eric Reanimator, and my See Hear podcast co-host Bernard Stickwell. Our lists cover country, funk, punk, jazz, rock….. and surf music. Not only that, but some very kind LTA listeners also chime in with their favourite albums heard this year. Join us for a fun filled episode.   I want to thank anyone who joined me on a show, steered the show while I took a break, listened to a show, provided feedback or recommended the show to someone else. Without you, the show would be dull and only heard by my cat.   2017 will see the recording and release of episode 100 – not a landmark I aimed for when I started in 2011. Now it’s around the corner, and I’m very excited.   I wish all listeners and participants a safe New Year. Let’s meet up again in 2017.   You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum     If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Welcome to episode 95 of Love That Album. To some folks in the podcasting world, we’re in the month of Shocktober. At LTA headquarters, it’s Jazztober and Maurice is celebrating by doing the second Jazz Mystery Box episode (Check out LTA #84 with Terry Frost for the first one). Maurice has picked three jazz albums from his collection he wants to notify the podcast listening world about, and then proceeds to do just that.What are the albums? THAT is the mystery. Download the show and find out. Maurice make no claims to being a jazz expert – there are people who know a ton more than he does, both in the history and the music theory of jazz.All he's doing is using his enthusiasm for these albums to get some recommendations across. Eric Reanimator gets his jazz mojo working with his Album I Love segment to talk about the jazz soundtrack for the 1988 Mike Figgis film, “Stormy Monday”. You truly don’t have to be a jazz fan to dig this episode….but of course if you are, you should still enjoy. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, we’d be immensely grateful. If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Love That Album podcast episode 94 is ready for your aural pleasure. Maurice is joined by Julian Gillis (friend from school years and long-time absentee from the show) to discuss an album that cemented their friendship, 1989’s “Claim” from Melbourne band Not Drowning, Waving. For the uninitiated, this is music you can relax to, boogie to (yes, “boogie” specifically – find out why), and think about. It mixes rock and Papua New Guinea influences, as well as the music of Indigenous Australia. The band’s songwriter was David Bridie who has a keen sense of how to tell a great story. He tells tales of ordinary people and their lives through small details like a great novelist would do. As well as their own discussion of the album, Maurice and Julian chat to David Bridie himself to find out his recollections of the album and the band’s broader history. It was truly a privilege to talk with David and for him to be so giving of his time while giving insight into this great album. Eric Reanimator returns with his “Album I Love” segment to talk about Finnish indie/lounge band (?) Branded Women and their 2006 album, “Cities and Seas”. You can download the show from iTunes (search for “Love That Album podcast”) or from the website at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. Please consider writing a brief (or lengthy) iTunes review. If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in to the show.

Welcome to episode 92 of Love That Album podcast.   In this final month of my sabbatical from the podcast, the good ship LTA is steered by previous co hosts (and passionate Australian music experts), Dave Blom and Sitting In a Bar In Adelaide’s, Michael Pursche.   Popular Australian music has gone through many phases over the years and presented here are 2 almost forgotten by the mainstream, Australian albums from the 1970’s that belong to two different eras, despite only being separated by a few years in terms of their release date.   At the Mountains of Madness by Blackfeather is a landmark Progressive Rock album,one that features a big hit single, the original version of "Seasons of Change" which featured Bon Scott on recorder. Scott was so taken by this song, that it was agreed that his band Fraternity would get to record it and release it. Blackfeathers' record label upon seeing the success of the Fraternity version, then decided to release the original Blackfeather version which is included on this Album. The album itself is an interesting blend of Rock and Roll combined with the sort of psychedelic noodling that would make early Pink Floyd proud. This album was recently re-issued by the Aztec label and is well worth the effort of listening to. Blackfeather then experienced several line-up changes over the years and a very different sound for their subsequent releases.   Most Australian people are familiar with the sounds of the Little River Band,Skyhooks, Sherbet and AC/DC. Avalanchestraddle the gap between the first 3 of these bands and the last, butunfortunately most people wouldn't be familiar with their fantastic self titledrelease  from 1976.  The musicians coming off the back of working with Brian Cadd produced this epic 11 track effort, that stands up well today. The music range on this album is extremely diverse and highlights the talent that each member brought to the studio.   Avalanche re-named themselves as Front Page in 1978 after Cox and Harrison had left and managed only one single "I Thought I'd Never Fall In Love Again"/"Rockin' Hollywood. After splitting, Naylor joined Jon English's backing band Baxter Funt and Campbell would be spotted in the early 80s as part of Funk band Adrian's Wall. Clive Harrison would later issue a 1982 solo album 'Once Bitten'. Geoff Cox went on to become a Media personality on radio and TV, most famous for his show "Coxy's Big break".   So,two forgotten gems, well worth checking out. We hope you Love these albums too. As long as Michael and Dave are discussing Australian bands with art rock leanings, Eric Reanimator has appropriately picked an album for his Album I Love segment by Dead can Dance. Originally out of Melbourne, they mix art rock and Middle Eastern Sounds on their album, Eric discusses their 1993 album Into The Labyrinth.   I am so immensely grateful to my great friends for hosting the podcast and keeping your earholes loaded with great music discussion. For better or worse,I am back next month.   You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (writtenor mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum Download Sitting In A Bar In Adelaide from http://www.podcastgarden.com/podcast/siabia If you enjoy what you the podcast, please recommend us to a friend or ten....real life, social media, the guy at work whos ays he likes music....  

Welcome to episode 91s of Love that Album. While Maurice continues on his walkabout/vision quest, Eric Reanimator (of LTA: The Compilation Series) continues leading the show. For this episode, he is joined by creator of the Feed My Ears music discussion Facebook group, John Ross to talk about two classics of the grunge era..   They start the show by discussing the Screaming Trees' “Sweet Oblivion” album from 1992. Featuring Mark Lanegan on vocals, the Screaming Trees were largely overlooked in their day despite being around at the right place and right time, securing a major label contract, and being an integral part of the Seattle scene.   Following the discussion of the Screaming Trees and a couple of digressions, they proceed to talk about the 1995 album “Above” by Mad Season.  A one album super-group project featuring members of Alice in Chains, The Screaming Trees, and Pearl Jam, Mad Season was recorded as an artistic response to the substance abuse issues in the Seattle scene.   While the album did well and contained a couple of well-known songs, the deaths of 2 of the bands members effectively ended the band. Eric and John discuss all of this and more.   You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum   If you want to carry on more great music discussion join Feed My Ears athttps://www.facebook.com/groups/feedmyears    If you enjoy what you the podcast, please recommend us to a friend or ten....real life, social media, the guy at work who says he likes music....

Episode 26 of See Hear is available for your earholes. It’s the final of our 2015 listener requests. The fact that it’s 2016 shows we’re a bit disorganised, but as Bernie suggested, that’s fitting with the subject matter. Eric Reanimator requested we watch and discuss Color Me Obsessed: A Film About The Replacements, directed by Gorman Bechard and released in 2011. It’s a documentary about the beloved 80s punk / pop band from Minneapolis. It uses the common documentary trope of the “talking head”perspective, but unlike many other documentaries (music or otherwise) this is all it does. There is no Replacements archival footage, nor any interviews with the band. There are producers, peers and fans all giving their stories of gigs witnessed, tutus, trashcans, favourite albums, and teen angst. Bernard, Tim and Maurice discuss whether this approach to the subject matter actually helps or hinders in appreciating who the Replacements were. There is a lot of digression from talk of the actual film to discussing what we believe the role of a documentary actually is, and what our favourite Replacements albums are. There will be a certain irony about our discussion which will become apparent as we go into the episode – listen and work it out. You candownload the show by searching for See Hear podcast on iTunes or download from http://seehear.podbean.com/ Please joinour friendly Facebook discussion group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/seehearpodcast/ You can sendus emails at seehearpodcast@gmail.com

So even though there is not a regular edition episode of Love That Album this month (February 2016), Eric Reanimator is working hard to keep you folks who love your music discussion podcasts happy with episode 24 of Love That Album – The Compilation Edition. This time around Eric is discussing bringing some more punk and power pop to y’all. He’s dropping some knowledge about releases from some really fun sounding LA bands The Last, The Weirdos, The Angry Samoans and The Joneses. Like a punk record from the day, it’s brief but sweet....and if you're a Baby Boomer (take a deep breath, Eric) you're bound to raise a smile at a cover the Joneses do. Get onto it.You can download the show from iTunes (search for “Love That Album podcast”) or from the website at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.comSend the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, I’d be immensely grateful.If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Hey folks, it’s time to bring you some new Love That Album podcasting for 2016. We’re starting off with episode 23 of Eric Reanimator’s  Love That Album – The Compilation Edition. In the last couple of weeks, rock music has lost (at least) three iconic rock music figures. Stevie Wright of The Easybeats, David Bowie (who did a cracking version of “Friday On My Mind”), and Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister. Eric starts this episode discussing two facets to Lemmy’s career. First, he discusses Lemmy’s first important band Hawkwind and their live album “Space Ritual” before moving onto the more iconic Motorhead live album “No Sleep 'Til Hammersmith”. Then, he discusses a compilation of a very different artist, producer Joe Meek. He created a hit for the Tornados with “Telstar”, but as the compilation “The Alchemist Of Pop - Home Made Hits & Rarities 1959-1966” shows, he produced a lot of hits with his very distinctive style of heavy reverb and sped up sounds. Eric discusses the man and this compilation. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

It’s December, so it must be time for another Love That Album end-of-year Shooting The Shit session. In case you’re not familiar with the term, LTA has done a small number of panel shows under the Shooting The Shit moniker. We haven’t held a more general discussion in a long while, but the tradition holds that we do our “favourite first time listens of the year” show. As long as the panellists heard a particular album for the first time in 2015 (regardless of the year of release), it’s up for discussion. Because the crew is comprised of 6 of us, we’re doing this over two shows so you’re not listening for 4 hours straight!!! For episode 85, and the first of the STS faves specials, I am joined by my See Hear co-host Tim Merrill and Sitting In a Bar In Adelaide podcast host, Michael Pursche. We offer 5 albums each for your consideration as our favourite first time listens in 2015. Let me tell you folks, the key word here is “diversity”. There are a range of styles on offer here, so there will be something that will appeal to all tastes. I even have some feedback from listeners as to their favourite albums of the year. I love getting feedback for the same reason Sally Field loves getting Academy Awards…. Episode 86 will be part 2 of the end-of-year shows, and will be online in a couple of weeks. That will feature Geoff Smith, John Stirrat, and Eric Reanimator giving their well-considered choices. My thanks to my co-presenters for taking the time to record these shows with me, and my thanks to anyone who listens to the shows. There are a lot of podcasts out there to demand your time, so if you’ve let me into your headphones, I’m grateful to be included a part of your listening schedule. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, I’d be immensely grateful. If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.   

It’s time for episode 84 of Love That Album podcast and Mystery Box #2. What is the Mystery Box? In March of this year on episode 73, Michael Pursche and David Blom joined me to talk about a number of great Australian albums worthy of your attention, but no one knew up front what albums the others would discuss. For the second Mystery Box episode, I am joined by Paleo Cinema and Martian Drive In Podcast host Terry Frost to talk about bebop, swing, fusion, trad, big band, and free-jazz – in short, we will discuss a number of jazz albums we dig and think you listeners need in your lives if you don’t have them already there. In relation to one of my picks, I also present an interview with incredible Australian jazz drummer, David Jones. A veteran player of both the rock and jazz worlds, David has much to say about his time spent in one of the great Australian jazz fusion bands of the late seventies and early eighties, as well as his passion for the music and making sure audiences come away laughing as well as digging on the music. My huge thanks to Carmen Warrington for arranging this interview with me. Eric Reanimator is back with another Album I Love segment to talk about a couple of albums by beatnik jazz performer Ralph. Who is Ralph? Tune in and find out. Even if you’re not a jazz fan, tune in for the great chats I have with Terry and David and get a feel for the diversity of our selections. Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, I’d be immensely grateful. If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

So I want to ask you some questions.Do you prefer a suave lounge suit over a pair of jeans and a tee shirt? Would you prefer a cocktail over a beer? Does a vibraphone solo interest you more than a guitar solo?If you answered yes to these questions, Eric Reanimator has some recommendations for you in the latest episode of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition (#21).This time around Eric is putting aside the wildness of punk and outlaw country to talk about some music to help you relax. He’s recommending and talking about three albums that fall under the descriptive of lounge exotica. Those albums are Welcome To The Ultra Lounge, Misfits Meet The Nutley Brass, (well there had to be a punk link SOMEWHERE, right?) and finally The Best Of Martin Denny's Exotica. Eric talks about why the time is right to rediscover this music and what led to it being shunned. So turn off your episodes of Mad Men, wrap your headphones over your earholes and listen to what Eric has to say. Really, the only things missing from this episode are his favourite cocktail recipes.You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.comSend the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbumIf you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Welcome to episode 81 of Love that Album podcast.   This month, I decided to take a break from the podcast (slackarse that I am), but there is no way I would deprive both the listeners of an episode-  nosiree Bob. I called in Eric Reanimator (host of LTA: The Compilation Series) and Tim Merrill (my co host at See Hear podcast) to present some music discussion for you….and they’ve delivered the goods.   First up, they discuss The Flesh Eaters’ “A Minute To Pray A Second To Die” from 1981. This features a lineup of LA roots rock royalty with members of the Blasters, X and (yet to join) Los Lobos. The final result is still something leaner and rawer than any of those outfits.   Then the guys go for a real curiousity. The Minneapolis band Cows and their album “Cunning Stunts” comes under the guys’ gaze. A noise-rock band with a bugle and an interpretation of the theme from Midnight Cowboy sure as hell has my attention.   I want to thank Eric and Tim for presenting a fantastic episode which introduced me to some good music and interesting discussion. I hope you dig it.   You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum    If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

It’s time to get some solid recommendations from Eric Reanimator for great compilations on Episode 19 of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition. Both albums focus on Canadian troubadour Stomping Tom Connors, probably most famous for The Hockey Song. The first album is called Bring Your Own Plywood and features Calgary rock and country artists recording cover versions of songs written by Connors. Artists such as Agriculture Club, Knucklehead, and The Spam Avenger line up to record their favourite tunes from his monstrously large songbook. Then Eric talks about Unreleased Songs from the Vault Collection, Vol. 1 where Connors himself records some of his favourite classic country and folk songs he originally sang when he started out in the fifties. Using just his guitar and voice, he turns his focus to well known and loved songs such as the Darktown Strutter’s Ball, Truck Drivin’ Man, and Swanee River. Originally planned to be a 10 volume set, Connors unfortunately passed away after only the first volume was released.Thanks again to Eric for another fine program. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum   If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Welcome to episode 80 of Love That Album podcast.Due to time commitments this month, I am using the opportunity to bring you a couple of old interviews from 2001 that I did during my time at a local public access station. I am extremely proud of these interviews and I hope you dig them.On this episode, I am presenting a chat I had with one of my most favourite musicians ever, Bill Frisell. He is one of those few musicians whose style is instantly identifiable. Regardless of whether you’ve heard a particular tune or not, you KNOW it’s Frisell when you hear the music play. He’s known as a jazz and country player, but also as someone who loves sonic experiments. He’s been a session man for many (including Marianne Faithfull, Elvis Costello, and Ginger Baker), written the music for the Far Side animated series as well as for new scores for Buster Keaton films, and played with multiple ensembles of his own.Since this interview was recorded, he’s recorded many more albums and has toured Australia (the question of a tour is brought up in the chat). In 2001 he put out two brilliant albums (including one with Elvin Jones, drummer for John Coltrane!!!!!) He was a charming and very humble interview subject. I loved having this chat, and I hope you dig it too.Bruce Wooley and The Camera Club  is the focus of Eric Reanimator’s “Album I Love” segment. He talks about their album English Garden. “Who are they?” you ask. “Have they done anything I’d know?” Abso-bloody-lutely. Eric will reveal all.You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.comSend the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbumIf you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

It’s time for episode 18 of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition. Now, Love That Album has not officially taken part in the Sleazy Summer project being run by many of our favourite podcasts in our community, but in the spirit of Sleazy Summer, Eric Reanimator want s to discuss a little bump and grind with you in the first half of the show. Remember when rock and roll was about sex and honking saxophones????? The compilers of the Sin Alley series of albums surely do. Sleaze doesn’t belong exclusively to the cinema….it belongs on your record player. This album gives us 50s tunes from the likes of Myron Lee and the Caddies, Tony Casanova, and the Frantics Four. Oh yeah, get out that table leg and a tub of margarine baby….. For the second half, Eric discusses something a little less sleazy…or does he? We all know songs from the glam era from the likes of T-Rex, David Bowie and The Sweet. How about groups like Iron Virgin or The Plod? You will surely know Tartan Horde – trust me you do!!! Eric discusses the songs from these groups and many others on a compilation called Velvet Tinmine bringing you great but forgotten songs from the glam era. I just wish to reiterate how grateful I am that Eric is a continuing part of Love That Album bringing his time and knowledge for us all to dig on. Thank you good sir. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum  If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Episode 79 of Love That Album is ready for your aural pleasure. I am presenting a couple of episodes this month with interviews I did way back in 2001 while doing a summer fill-in on a local public access radio station in Melbourne. It was really exciting to get the opportunity to speak to a couple of musical titans in my listening development, and I think it was high time to present these to listeners of the podcast. This time around, I am presenting my interview with American songwriter, musician, radio show presenter, and writer of a music-related film encyclopedia, Marshall Crenshaw. Over 35 years, he has given the pop loving world a bunch of great records. Most recently he has been doing a show on WFUV called The Bottomless Pit and has released a series of crowd funded 10-inch 45 rpm records. This interview was recorded just prior to his release of his brilliant and reflective album What’s In The Bag. Have a listen and hear Marshall discuss his thoughts on his recorded legacy, playing John Lennon and Buddy Holly, and the Lenny Kaye “Nuggets” albums. Eric Reanimator presents his Album I Love segment discussing Swedish garage band The Strollers (I never knew Eric dug Swedish garage bands!!!) and their album Falling Right Down. The world needs more farfisa organs I say. The Strollers happily agree. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.au/ Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.  

…and it’s time for episode 78 of Love That Album podcast. Earlier this month, for episode 77, music journalist and biographer Jeff Jenkins and I discussed the history behind the recording of the second album by Melbourne band Skyhooks, “Ego Is Not a Dirty Word” celebrating 40 years since it was first released. Continuing LTA declared Skyhooks month, I am joined by Michael Pursche, host of the Sitting In a Bar In Adelaide podcast (itself named after a Skyhooks song), and Rhys Lett, head honcho at the Eastern Suburbs School of Music in Melbourne to pontificate the actual album. We discuss the songs, composition technique, lyrics, jazz vs pop chord progressions, our first recollections of hearing the album and a myriad of other things. Rhys even gets out his guitar to illustrate the cleverness of Greg Macainsh and Red Symons’ composition style. I hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed chatting.Eric Reanimator is back with his Album I Love segment. Trying to find a complementary group for this show, he decided on Blue Oyster Cult and their third album Secret Treaties. We all agree it was a fine and appropriate choice.You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.au/ You can listen to Sitting in a Bar In Adelaide at http://www.podcastgarden.com/podcast/siabiaor you can listen live on Wednesday nights between 8pm and 10pm(Adelaide time – do the arithmetic) at http://www.hillsradio.com.au/index.php If you live in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne and want to get music lessons, check out the website http://www.essm.net.au/. It’s an excellent site and is worth your while looking up even if you’re not considering music lessons….yet!!! Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.  If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, I’d be immensely grateful.

Time to get your dancing shoes on and listen to Episode 17 of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition. Eric Reanimator is discussing two different styles of music in relation to four CDs. First of all, the original American party music: Swing. Eric gives the good oil on “Swing! Greatest Hits” and “Next Generation Swing”. The first has some tunes from orchestras led by household names of the original era: Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw and Gene Krupa. The latter has tunes from the Swing revival of the 90s, like Royal Crown Revue, the Brian Setzer Orchestra, and the Mighty Mighty Boss Tones. Eric gives some background on the movements, and also gives some tips on how to impress on the dance floor…… Next up, Eric discusses the 80s movement known as New Wave. What the hell is New Wave? It was an umbrella for a lot of things, but is not so easily definable as other styles. It is more of an umbrella for power pop with a slightly electronic feel mixed with soulful vocals and performed by people in strange makeup and clothes…..yeah, I don’t really know either. Still, Eric reveals some of the gems on “Just Can’t Get Enough” Volumes 10 and 17. Volume 10 covers New Wave Hits of the 80s and Volume 17 focuses on female fronted bands. Having a party? DJ Eric will tell you there’s no shame in playing some Bananarama, Human League, Adam Ant, Berlin, or Josie Cotton. As always, Eric delivers a punchy, entertaining podcast. Give it a listen.  Warning: Love That Album takes no responsibility for any damage done to your credibility by dancing while listening to this podcast. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from  http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum  If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Heeeeeeyyyyyy Everybody….welcome to another……poperific episode of Love That Album. I am joined by the bass playing, list counting podcaster himself Mr Ben Eisen, host of the All Tim Top Ten podcast. For episode 76 of LTA, we are discussing the 1999 album by Fountains of Wayne, “Utopia Parkway”. These guys knew how to jangle a guitar, stick a melody deep into the recesses of your subconscious, and tell a tale about life in the suburbs. In the course of our discussion about this album we also talk about the difference between homage and pastiche, why some rock critics feel the need to trash people who live in suburbia (and why they’re stupid for doing it), teenage rites of passage, great summer music, and The Byrds. A really fun chat, and we hope you dig it. Eric Reanimator also brings some power pop to the virtual table for his Album I Love segment. He talks about a band from Massachusetts called The Charms…and the name is apt. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.au Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.Check out the All Time Top Ten podcast from http://alltimetopten.podomatic.com or get older episodes from https://www.mixcloud.com/beneisen/ If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, I’d be immensely grateful.  

Okay, it’s time for another slab of garage rock courtesy of Eric Reanimator on Love That Album: Compilation Edition episode 16.   Now just for something different, Eric is going to start off by talking about Swedish rockers The Hellacopters. Through the nineties it was a common practice for bands to release seven inches that were not related to an album (come to think of it, it was a sixties practice as well – score one for the Boomers). These seven inches would often feature covers the band under concern loved. Sometimes, in a very communal fashion, two bands would share the EP. Eric discusses a pair of albums chock full of Hellacopter songs previously only available on such singles called The Cream of The Crap. Ignore the self deprecation – the music is great, and Eric gives us the story behind the music.   Then before you can say “Holy Garage Music, Eric” he talks about three compilations from a band out of Washington DC called Adam West.- Ready Steady, Longshot Songs For Broke Players, and Hi Balls are Rolling. The number of singles represented here showed they were quite prolific in that department. Interestingly enough, both bands cpvered each others songs at some stage, but there’s a wealth of great material here. I’ll let Eric divulge what record label Adam West recorded on.   You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum   If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

It’s time for a packed episode 74 of Love That Album podcast. I am joined by Eric Reanimator (who normally hosts the LTA - Compilation Series episodes as well as the regular show’s Album I Love segment) to discuss two bands called X: one from Los Angeles and one from Sydney. Firstly, we discuss Los Angeles X’s “Under The Big Black Sun” from 1982. It’s a vibrant album – with some tragic lyrical themes - that combines their punk roots with their love of country, rockabilly and poetry. Then we discuss Sydney X’s “At Home With You” from 1985. Produced by the great Lobby Loyde (of Rose Tattoo and Coloured Balls), and featuring ex- Rose Tattoo member Ian Rilen on bass,  this is a tough sounding album, that along with many other alternative Australian bands of the day, probably had a lot of influence on bands to make their presence felt in the nineties. In relation to this show, I must give thanks to my friend and all-round gent, Pat Monaghan We have a special guest Album I Love segment presenter. John Ross of Feed My ears fame generously presents for the show a brief discussion on the band The Sneaker Pimps and their album, “Becoming X” (thus keeping in with the theme of the show, you see).John brings back his love of trip-hop to the show, and I thank him for it. We also present a tune by LTA Facebook member  Jason MacIsaac and his band The Heavy Blinkers. It’s from their wonderful album of 2013 “Health”. If you love beautiful arrangements mixed with tasteful orchestration and dig The Beach Boys “Smile”, you will love The Heavy Blinkers. I certainly do. Listen to the song….go buy the album. You’re welcome. There’s a new intro format to the show (I acknowledge I’ve stolen the idea) I’d like to give my gratitude to my wonderful wife Joanne for her assistance with the new intro segment.  Hope you dig it. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.au   Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.   If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, I’d be immensely grateful.   You can join the Feed My Ears Facebook page at http://facebook.com/groups/feedmyears. If you want to purchase a copy of “Health” then head on out to http://theheavyblinkers.com/

Time for Eric Reanimator to present another episode of Love That Album: The Compilation Edition for your aural gratification. Eric digs into the Rhino Records vaults and comes up with power pop treasure. He discusses the 70s power pop movement and its origins, and uses tunes from the albums DIY Come Out And Play - American Power Pop I, (1975-78), DIY Shake It Up - American Power Pop II, and Poptopia - Power Pop Classics Of The '70s to demonstrate how awesome the genre is. Of course, it wouldn't be an Eric presentation if there wasn't some discussion of the power pop crossover into punk. Mr Reanimator has all bases covered. Dig The Raspberries, Big Star and Cheap Trick? Give this a listen and see what else there is waiting for you. Once again, Eric gives a well thought out presentation. Give this episode (and all the Compilation Series editions) your support. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum If you enjoy what you hear, please tell a friend or ten to tune in.

Hey folks, It’s time for me to lay episode 73 of Love That Album podcast on you. This time around, I’m joined by good mate and work colleague, Dave Blom and the host of the brilliant “Sitting In a Bar In Adelaide” podcast, Michael Pursche.  I am dubbing this show The Mystery Box. Why? Because I’m not saying up front what albums we are discussing. The format of the show is not dissimilar to Eric Reanimator’s “Album I Love” segment. We have each picked 3 albums (so that’s 9 in total for those of you who are not strong on arithmetic) to discuss briefly per album. The albums are all Australian and range across the genres – singer / songwriter, blues, garage, rockabilly, classic rock. They range from iconic to lesser well known. If you’re a local, some of these will be known to you and some (maybe) not. What they have in common is we think the albums and are worthy of your attention. All will be available one way or another – either by download from the artists’ websites or Bandcamp / iTunes, or if you’re a physical media music fan, you can get them from the artists’ websites or your local bricks and mortar. Please support them. Even Eric gets in on the action by delivering his Album I Love segment to discuss his thoughts on one hugely iconic Australian album and another from a band popular in their day. It’s fascinating to hear an American’s thoughts on albums part of a lot of Oz music fans’ DNA. Please tune in and find out what he discusses. This is not simple dumb patriotism. This is an opportunity to spread the word about some great music that may not be known outside of our physical borders or to spread the word inside our borders if you missed these albums – and some are brand spanking new, so it’s great to get the word out. My thanks to Dave and Michael for a great discussion. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “Love That Album”. You can also stream or download it at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Any feedback would be gratefully appreciated – either written or mp3 voicemail. You can send it to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au  

Welcome to episode 72 of Love That Album. American songwriter, composer, pianist and singer Randy Newman means different things to different people. If you’re 25 years or under, you probably know him best as writer of some great songs for the Pixar films. If you’re older, you may know him for his song writing that encompasses wit and a healthy dose of cynicism, but also great beauty. A multitude of artists have covered his songs (and two such artists are discussed on the show). His arrangements are created for both orchestras and rock band. He is both contemporary but belonging to an older tin pan alley tradition. I am joined by the crew of the Stinking Pause podcast, Scott  and Charlie to discuss Newman’s 1972 album Sail Away. This album owes much to the family heritage of cinema composition (Uncle Alfred Newman composed arguably the most recognisable piece of movie music ever), but is also Randy’s very own corner of the family business, as it were. He writes great first person narratives covering religion, American policy, family roles, and dancing bears. I had a great chat with Scott and Charlie, and hope you enjoy our discussion. Eric Reanimator’s Album I Love segment covers the songbook or Zager and Evans, most famous for their solitary hit “In The Year 2525”. He makes a convincing case that the two albums they released have other worthwhile songs crying for your attention. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.au Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum. If you’d consider writing an iTunes review or recommending the show to a friend, I’d be immensely grateful. Check out the fantastic Stinking Pause podcast either on iTunes or directly from http://www.stinkingpause.com

Happy New Year everyone. Love That Album podcast is back again for 2015. We here at LTA headquarters will strive to continue to bring you great music discussion. We start the year off with an episode of LTA: The Compilation Series hosted by Eric Reanimator…..and he’s bringing you a high dose of energetic punk and garage sounds via two fantastic compilations. First of all, Eric discusses an Australian compilation Do The Pop!: The Australian Garage Rock Sound 1976-1987. Eric’s passion for Radio Birdman was the starting point for him picking up on this brilliant 2 CD set, but there’s a treasure trove of material here from the likes of the Hoodoo Gurus, The Eastern Dark, The Saints, The Sunnyboys and a plethora of other bands, mixing and influenced by the punk, garage and pop sounds of the 60s and 70s. This corner of the world was making essential music all northern hemisphere music fans of these genres need to pick up on. [As an adjunct, I’m hoping to get an interview for a future LTA with the man who put this anthology together – stay tuned]. Then, Eric goes to Sweden to tells us about the virtues of A Real Cool Time Revisited: Swedish Punk, Pop and garage Rock 1982-1989. Essentially, the Swedish equivalent of Do The Pop, it features bands like The Nomads, The Crimson Shadows, The Bottle Ups, and The Creeps. Like the Australian bands, the Swedes put out excellent material in a scene worked independently of the Americans and the British. This is another terrific compilation worthy of your attention. Once again, Eric delivers the goods with intelligent music discussion about music you truly need to hear. Listen to the podcast and be convinced. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com Send the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum

…..and so we arrive at Love That Album episode 70 - the final show for 2014.We cannot finish off a year without bringing the thunder that is the Shooting The Shit crew. This is our only discussion for the year, but it’s EPIC. Eric Reanimator, John Stirrat, Geoff Smith, Tim Merrill and myself go through our favourite first time listens in 2014 – regardless of whether they were released this year or not. Download and dig the suggestions of music from the crew for your listening pleasure. We dub this special “I Still Know What Shit You Shot Last Summer”. To make the recording more manageable, we recorded the show in two halves with John and Tim in the first part, and Eric, Geoff and myself in the second. Thanks again to these marvellous people for their time, music suggestions, wit and friendship.It’s been another fun year of music discussion podcasts with musically knowledgeable and articulate people. Eric brought something new into the mix with his own Compilation Series of LTA episodes every month, so effectively, there was some new LTA content roughly every couple of weeks.I’d like to thank every person who participated in a show or who listened to the show this year. Without you folks, I’d be talking to Mimi my cat…..and she doesn’t even care for music.I look forward to starting this all up again in 2015. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “Love That Album”. You can also stream or download it at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com.Any feedback would be gratefully appreciated – either written or mp3 voicemail. You can send it to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.auJoin the Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum  

Love That Album episode 68 is here. Any of you who know me know of my love for power pop…and in that regard, we have a gem of an album to discuss. I’m joined by Melbourne musician, teacher, and fellow power pop nut Rhys Lett to discuss the 1993 album “Spilt Milk” from San Francisco band, Jellyfish. This was a huge step forward from their brilliant debut, “Bellybutton”, but was also unfortunately their final album. Was it due to public or record company apathy, or band friction? In this regard, they share the fate of their stylistic cousins, The Zombies and Big Star (both covered previously on the podcast) who ceased active recording way too early. They’ve had a lot of comparisons with Queen (for the rawwwwk and drummer Andy Sturmer’s singing) and the Beach Boys’ harmonies. As valid as these comparisons are, there is a lot more going on here. This could be described as a concept album with the songs being parts of a nightmare – not the bogeyman type, but more a domestic nightmare of infidelity, unrequited crushes, depression, death, and evangelism. There’s also a song on Spilt Milk that led Rhys to suggest Ben Eisen needs to pursue its subject matter in an All Time Top Ten podcast. Tune in and find out what it was…. This time around, Eric Reanimator also discusses the Psyclone Ranger’s album from 1993 “Feel Nice”. He describes this as power pop bordering on punk. See what you think. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “Love That Album”. You can also stream or download it at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Any feedback would be gratefully appreciated – either written or mp3 voicemail. You can send it to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au Don’t forget to send me your end of 2014 lists of best of’s or favourite first time listens. Join the Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum If you want to check out Rhys’ work as a musician, go to http://www.dressedtochill.com.au/ to see his Crosby Stills and Nash style Kiss tribute band, Dressed to Chill. If you need music lessons,  check out the website of the music school he runs Eastern Sububrs School of Music at http://www.essm.net.au/  

Congratulations to Eric Reanimator whose LTA offshoot, LTA: The Compilation Series hits double digits. Episode 10 of The Compilation Series focuses on pretty different releases. By his own admission, the first album is dubiously discussed here as a comp. It’s the 25th anniversary edition of The Damned’s “Machine Gun Etiquette”. It qualifies because there’s a bunch of bonus tracks included on this anniversary edition to complement the original album. The second album is Dedication: The Very Best of Thin Lizzy. They were a great mixture of hard rock, folk and pop, and mostly known for “The Boys Are Back In Town”. However, this comp shows they had a lot of great material (“Chinatown” is my personal favourite).  Phil Lynott was a charismatic lead singer and bassist. Give Eric some love and listen to the show. Send him a note of congrats for reaching the double digits on his excellent podcast. You can download the show by searching for Love That Album in the iTunes store or downloading streaming directly from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.comSend the show feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum

Welcome to Episode 67 of Love That Album. There are three episodes of LTA coming this month (instead of the usual two). We here at LTA headquarters hope you dig them all. This time around I am welcoming back a recent guest to the show, Scott Clickers (co-host with his wife Kat of the wonderful Married With Clickers podcast). We’re discussing an album Scott introduced me to by Hamilton based husband and wife group, Whitehorse. The name of the record from 2012 is “The Fate Of The World Depends Upon This Kiss”. As you read that name, you obviously are conjuring cinematic images in your head, right? Of course you are. A great set of poppy / alt country tunes are contained on this album.  Hear what we have to say about this great little record. Eric Reanimator returns to talk about the 1985 offering from Blood On The Saddle called Poisoned Love. DIG IT!!!! You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “Love That Album”. You can also stream or download it at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Any feedback would be gratefully appreciated – either written or mp3 voicemail. You can send it to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au Join the Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum You can find Married With Clickers on iTunes or at http://marriedwithclickers.libsyn.com/

Welcome to episode 66 of Love That Album podcast. What happens if you mix stripping clergy members, trainspotting, James Bond, and English village life? No, not a Monty Python sketch – you get the 1997 debut album from Mansun, a band from the tail end of the musical movement known as Britpop. The album, Attack of the Grey Lantern went to #1 on the British charts – for one week -, but unlike “Parklife” by Blur or “Definitely Maybe” by Oasis seems to have been forgotten about.  What was it replaced by? Tune in and find out. I am joined by Scott Phipps (one half of the excellent film discussion podcast team, Stinking Pause) and my good friend Dave Blom (who chose this album) to discuss not only our feelings about this record, but the Britpop movement in general and the politics of England from the day that surrounded Britpop. 1997 was also the year that gave us Radiohead’s “OK Computer”, so that was the direction British music was inevitably headed to (with a diversion somewhere in the middle!!!) We even find time to make a connection to a classic Australian political jingle. My thanks to both Dave and Scott for making time to come onto the show and bringing their enthusiasm to chat with them. Eric Reanimator returns with his Album I Love segment to discuss a British album from the Britpop period, but stylistically very different. Eric brings us a chat about The Wild Hearts’ 1993 album “Earth Vs The Wild Hearts”. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “Love That Album”. You can also stream or download it at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Any feedback would be gratefully appreciated – either written or mp3 voicemail. You can send it to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au Join the Facebook group at www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum Listen to Scott and Charlie wax lyrically about films on the Stinking Pause at http://thestinkingpause.blogspot.com or via iTunes.  

Welcome back to Love That Album podcast.   For episode 65, I am really happy to welcome Scott Clickers to the music discussion table. Scott and his wife Kat host an excellent film podcast called Married Witch Clickers. Their films are diverse and the show always makes for fascinating and enjoyable listening.   Scott and I do a dissection on Neil Young's 1989 album Freedom. Neil had spent most of the eighties recording albums for Geffen Records that many fans found unsatisfactory or avoided all together. Geffen attempted to sue Neil for making "untypical" Neil Young albums. On"Freedom", Neil's second album after returning to Reprise, he puts paid to the ridiculous notion that there is such a thing as a "typical" Neil Young album. Diversity and songwriting are its strengths. Neil gives us the feedback laden rock and gorgeous acoustic numbers. I make the case that this is a concept album. Why? Tune in and find out. Eric Reanimator continues to show his love for Drivin’ and Cryin’ by bringing them back to his Album I Love segment with a discussion on their 1988 album Whisper tames The Lion. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can also stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.   Please support Scott and Kat Clickers by searching out Married With Clickers on itunes or at http://marriedwithclickers.libsyn.com/   Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum  

A late pullout from my guest for episode 63 of LTA, and with no one else available on such short notice meant I had to record it by myself. Not my favourite way of doing a show (good on you, Terry Frost for being able to do it on a weekly basis), but here it is. This time around, I talk about an album that many see as the pinnacle of Stevie Wonder’s career – “Songs In The Key of Life” from 1976. Two years in recording, Berry Gordy of Motown took a real chance in signing up Steveland Morris to a new 30 million dollar contract at the time of recording. He reportedly got very nervous the longer the recording went. He was rewarded both artistically and financially. An apt title for an album that’s hallmarks are its diversity and excellence. Eric Reanimator’s Album I Love segment is a beauty, as always. This time around he discusses The Bellrays’ “Let It Blast”. The common description of this band is Aretha Franklin fronts the MC5. See what you think. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can also stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.   Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group athttp://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum  

Welcome to episode 4 of the LTA: Compilation Series podcasts hosted by Eric Reanimator. This episode is called Happy Pub. This time around Eric is discussing a couple of albums focussing on British pub rock. First of all he talks about Elizabeth McQueen and the Firebrands with their tribute album to pub rock from 2005 called “Happy Doing What We’re Doing”. Then he goes right to the source with the compilation “Pub Rock: Paving The Way For Punk” featuring artists like Ian Dury, Brinsley Schwartz and the 101’ers (with a pre-Clash Joe Strummer) As always, Eric delivers a truly fascinating show. He contextualises the music describing the circumstances that led to pub rock in England. When young artists wanted to bring back pure raw energy to make exciting music (in much the same way rock and rollers from the 50s did), as an alternative to the musicians who were showing their chops through Progressive Rock, Pub Rock was created. As a side note, the pub has long been the breeding ground for most great Australian rock. I hope to discuss this with Eric on a future show. I urge you to give Eric your time. His shows are not just podcasts, but audio documentaries. They are well thought out and you come away knowing something new. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can also stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.  Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum

What do Lamb of God, REM, Weddings Parties Anything, Neko Case, Gerry rafferty and Iron Maiden have to do with Richard and Linda Thompson and their 1982 masterpiece “Shoot Out The Lights”? Some of the links are actually very tenuous, but they’re brought up nevertheless in episode 61 of Love That Album, which is devoted to discussing said masterpiece. I am joined by the Knife Licker himself, Mr John Ross co-host of the wonderful Feed My Ears podcast to talk about just happy subjects as infidelity, death, marriage woes, and amusement park rides. Join us!!! We had a lot to talk about including the back story behind the recording of the record. Eric Reanimator is back on board for his Album I Love segment to talk some more excellent Swedish rock. This time he brings us some Hellacopters action with their EP Strike Like Lightning. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can also stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.  Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.  

Eric Reanimator presents episode number 3 in the Love That Album Compilation Album series of podcasts. Once again, Eric truly sets a high benchmark for informative music discussion.   First up, Eric discusses Volume 3 of the Columbia Country Classics set. This set is heavy on telling stories – something country music does so well and features tunes from the likes of Johnny Cash and Marty Robbins.   Then, he talks about the first volume of a high energy punk / garage series of albums called A Fistful of Rock and Roll with songs from groups like The Bell Rays, El Diablo, and Rocket City Riot.   Once again, Eric takes you on a fascinating journey through two very stylistically different compilations. Tune into what he has to say.   You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or http://lovethatalbum.podbean.com  

Welcome to episode 60 of Love That Album. At the end of 2013, two of my favourite albums came from Melbourne bands, and I discuss both of them with their songwriters. First of all, The Livingstone Daisies brought a slice of harmony laden pop goodness into the world with “Don’t Know What Happiness Is” (their fans did after hearing it). I speak with the Daisies’ songwriter Van Walker, who has recorded a number of albums in his own right about how this supergroup came into being and this wonderful record. Think Teenage Fanclub, and you’ll get the idea. Then, I speak to Sherry Rich who has made a myriad of great albums with her own bands (including members of Wilco), but along with Even’s Ash Naylor has reformed The Grapes. They put out a perfect pop album in 1999, and then released another wonderful country / pop hybrid album 14 years later called Western Sun. We speak about both records as well as Sherry’s time in Nashville. Eric Reanimator returns with his Album I Love segment discussing all girl power pop band The Barbarellas with their aptly titled Queens of the Galaxy. Fans of Thee Ultra Bimboos will dig. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can also stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.  Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.  You can order a CD of The Grapes’ Western Sun album from http://www.thegrapes.com.au/ You can get the Livingstone Daisies’ Don’t Know What Happiness Is album from  http://livingstonedaisies.bandcamp.com/album/dont-know-what-happiness-is-digital-download-limited-edition-12-vinyl-or-cd Both albums are also available on iTunes.

Eric Reanimator presents episode number 2 in the Love That Album Compilation Series of podcasts, and it is hugely entertaining and informative. This time he discusses two albums. The first is Rip It Up and Start Again, a compilation covering the post punk era of artists such as Cabaret Voltaire and The Human League, following in the wake of the initial wave of punk . He points out convincingly it’s subsequent influence on goth and indie rock. Stagediving to the Oldies from 1995 covers second wave LA Punk covers bands like The Circle Jerks, The Vandals and Agent Orange. Eric feels that the LA punk scene never got its due, and this compilation is going some way to redress that. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or http://lovethatalbum.podbean.com

Welcome to episode 59 of Love That Album. Joining me at LTA Headquarters is show regular, Michael Pursche (of Sitting In A Bar In Adelaide podcast). We discuss a couple of fine Australian pop albums from the eighties. Firstly, we talk about a surprisingly neglected album of a major artist – Ross ‘The Boss’ Wilson’s “Dark Side of the Man” from 1989. We follow up with The Saints’ 1986 album “All Saints Day” – a long way from their “I’m Stranded” debut. Both albums are from artists who’d been on the music scene for a while and had changed direction. Echoes of LTA episode 58’s discussion on Bruce Springsteen’s album High Hopes hang over both these records. Tune into the show and discover why. As usual, Eric Reanimator contributes another wonderful Album I Love segment, discussing The Damned’s “Black Album” from 1980. Like The Saints, they were a punk band looking for different directions to travel. …and we got some real honest to goodness feedback…..YAY!!!!! You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.   Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.   Get Michael’s Sitting In a bar In Adelaide podcast from http://www.podfeed.net/podcast/Sitting+in+a+Bar+in+Adelaide/14279

Episode 58 of the Love That Album podcast has finally shaken off the curse….yes, Dr Geoff Smith has finally overcome internet dropouts, Skype collapse, my previously poor file editing skills – all collectively known as the Hiatt Curse – to join John Stirrat and myself to discuss some BROOOOOCCCCE. This is Love That Album’s third Bruce-cast. (Check out episodes 1 and 17 for further Springsteen0related chat). Since the beginning of the 21st Century, Bruce Springsteen has found new strength and purpose. He’s been touring heavily with the beloved E Street band, and recorded (for a major artist in the current age of rock) at a prolific rate. Early 2014 has seen him release High Hopes, an album some believe should be called Tracks 2. It’s a collection of songs written over the last 10 years that didn’t make the cut on previous recordings, as well as some interesting covers. We grapple the big questions: Does the album work as one artistic statement or is it just a grab bag of songs that have no connection? Is he following similar lines to Wrecking Ball or does he cut a different path? Is the E Street Band the most hip-shaking, love-making, Viagra-taking musical entity on the planet? There is much discussion on the current tour of Australia, the last decade of Bruce-related music, and if Bruce is an overtly political songwriter. Eric Reanimator’s “Album I Love” segment appropriately for a Bruce show is Alejandro Escovedo’s 2008 album Real Animal. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.   Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and let us know your thoughts on your favourite BROOOCCCE moments.   I’d be hugely grateful for any iTunes reviews should you be so kind to submit one.

For episode 55 of Love That Album, I am enjoyed by the pummeling princess of Power Pop, Ms Wendi Freeman. We spent time discussing two terrific power pop classics – only one of which has made it to the podcast due to a technical botch on my part, Cheap Trick’s album from 1977, “In Color” (incorrect spelling from my side of the world, but I’m quoting). Two pinup guys, a guitar geek, and a guy who looks like a chain smoking second rate lawyer, somehow managed to combine melodic pop and hard rock to create a first class album. Debate rages on as to the radio-friendly nature of the original album  against the re-recorded version of it many years later produced by Steve Albini. One of us feels the original production took the balls out of the songs, and one of us feels the subsequent production failed to take into account the sweet nature of some of the tunes by turning everything up to 11. Who thought what? Download the episode and find out.  For his Album I Love segment, Eric Reanimator kicks down the door of public opinion to champion the Goo Goo Dolls album of 1993, Superstar Carwash. He makes a convincing case. Don’t forget to also download the new bonus episode featuring my chat with the former lead singer and songwriter of the Ice Cream Hands (now of The Zhivagos), Charles Jenkins. You can download both shows from iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download them at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and let us know your favourite power pop songs.You should also be downloading Wendi's two brilliant podcasts, Double Page Spread (http://doublepgspread.tumblr.com/) about the comic world, and The Trashy Trio (http://trashytrio.libsyn.com/) discussing sleazy movies. To borrow from the Gents, she really does bring class to the trash. As if that wasn't enough she's also the drummer of Daemon Familiar (http://daemonfamiliar.com/). If you’re enjoying the show, please spread the word. Let friends know that there’s a podcast where albums are discussed passionately. If you want to write an iTunes review in support of the show, I’d be hugely grateful for that too.  

Episode 54 of LTA is a world away from episode 53. Whereas in episode 53, Eric Reanimator and I discussed two dangerous front men in rock, this time around, I am joined by the greatest film and music expert Bath has ever known, Mr Bernard Stickwell (Sticky to his friends) to discuss two sensitive singer songwriter types. 2012 saw the first release of new, non-demo material in 40 odd years from British songwriter Bill Fay. His new album “Life Is People” is a warm sounding album rich in its song arrangements. Fay writes songs about what he has discovered about life - both the disappointing and hopeful – through actually living it. He has worked in a multitude of jobs since originally giving up the industry (not giving up music) to keep himself afloat. It’s these experiences that dictate his subject matter, and it all rings true, as Sticky and I discuss. We also cover the 1994 album by former American Music Club frontman, Mark Eitzel, “60 Watt Silver Lining”. Sticky introduced me to this record, and it’s become a favourite. Imagine Tom Waits, Burt Bacharach and Roy Orbison getting together at a late night bar, and you get a vague idea of what’s going on here. Eitzel’s obviously had his heart broken and stomped on. From misery comes great art, but it’s been suggested that he’s often taking the piss.  This is part of our discussion (and we cover blaxploitation films too). We had fun, and I hope you dig it. Speaking of Eric, he returns with his Album I Love segment to discuss a couple of long players by Kevin Kinney, Macdougal Blues from 1990 and Down Out Law 1994. Kevin was the lead singer of a band Eric has long championed, Drivin’ and Cryin’. Eric’s reflections on Kinney’s solo work makes for interesting listening. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and let us know your thoughts on your favourite singer songwriters, whether you prefer the attempt at a slightly new show format, or just anything music related that you’d like to chat about. If you’re enjoying the show, please spread the word. Let friends know that there’s a podcast where albums are discussed passionately. If you want to write an iTunes review in support of the show, I’d be hugely grateful for that too.

The bad news is that Eric Reanimator did not submit his regular Album I Love segment for Episode 53 of Love That Album. The good news is he joins me for the whole show. After enjoying Eric’s regular segments on the podcast and his contributions to the Shooting The Shit segments, his debut as co presenter on LTA 53 is long overdue. The theme of this show is dangerous frontmen. We discuss Alice Cooper’s “Killer” and Iggy and the Stooges’ “Raw Power”. Both Vincent Furnier and Jim Osterburg were playing characters, and we discuss not only their albums, but also their respective approaches to shocking their audiences. Alice Cooper (both the band and the man) created a very theatrical show with snakes, guillotines, and hangings, whereas Iggy would rile up his audience and scrape broken shards of glass across his body. Alice gave the illusion of danger, but Iggy really put himself in danger. We discuss how the music works irrespective of the visuals, the similarities and differences between the characters and personas, and the seeming contradiction between the performers’ androgyny and machismo. Sounds heavy? It ain’t. Eric and I had a great conversation about the performers and their work that I hope you find stimulating. If you’re enjoying the music discussions that we present on the show, please let your music loving friends know that the podcast exists. Spread the word that music discussion exists in podcast land. If you feel you’d like to be part of the show or even suggest an album for future focus, please send me an email. I’d also be grateful for an iTunes review, You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group a thttp://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and let us know your thoughts on trip hop, whether you prefer the attempt at a slightly new format, or just anything music related that you’d like to chat about.

Welcome to Love That Album podcast 49.   Before I started the podcast, I was writing blog articles about albums I love. Back in May 2011, I wrote about my passion for the 1989 album from Weddings Parties Anything “The Big Don’t Argue”. I really felt that this deserved a return visit via the podcast. I am joined by LTA regular and host of Sitting In A Bar In Adelaide, Michael Pursche to discuss this incredible record.   The threatening cover, a reference to the song A Tale They Won’t Believe really grabs your attention before you’ve played any of the music. Once the needle hits the grooves, we hear  lots of great stories, worthy of any great author. Via songwriter Mick Thomas, WPA tells us stories of livelihoods destroyed, cannibalism, the loss of idealism and enjoying a sunny Sydney day with barely enough money for a beer. Not just great stories, but fantastic memorable tunes that make you want to mosh or cry in your beer. I went to many many WPA shows and it felt like a sense of community when you sang with complete strangers about holding down cooked human flesh to survive.   We are joined once again by Eric Reanimator for his Album I Love segment to discuss the album Poison Love by cowpunks, Blood On The Saddle. Another great segment for yer earholes.   You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”.   The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”.   Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion on your favourite literary songwriters.

If you live in Australia and have turned on the radio, watched TV, gone to the theatre or cinema, or studied in high school any time over the last 30 years, then the name Paul Kelly is no stranger to you. He is revered as one of this country’s (or indeed the world’s) greatest songwriters. LTA contributor Dave Mclemore is a huge devotee over in the Lone Star state, so I know PK has an American fan base as well. If you’ve not heard him before, and you like strong storytelling in you songs, you’re in for a treat. If you dig Nick Cave, then PK should be someone you check out. For episode 48 of Love That Album podcast, I’ve decided that rather than tackle an individual Paul Kelly album (seeing as he has so many), I’ve plagiarised the format of The List Music Podcast and the All Time Top Ten podcast (thanks Ricardo, Jenny, VK, Juan and Ben). My longtime friend (I think we met at 10 years old!!!!) and fellow Paul Kelly fan Darren Lucthner and I count down and discuss our ten favourite Paul Kelly songs. We cover the hits, and the deeper album cuts. We even include a couple of Kelly-penned interpretations by other artists. What made the list? Tune in and find out. Eric Reanimator returns for his Album I Love segment, to discuss some early seventies Willie Nelson and his album Shotgun Willie. As usual, a classy and well thought out chat from Eric. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”.   Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion as to your favourite PK song.

Here we come…walking down the street….we get the funniest looks from….everyone we meet…. If you can sing the next line of that song, then Love That Album episode 47 is for you. The Monkees TV show theme would have to be one of the most beloved and recognised of its era and beyond. Arguments have gone back and forth about whether the Monkees were really a band, given their start as actors who just happened to be playing the parts of band members for a TV show. Well, like all good Frankensteinian monsters, they decided to take on a life of their own. On LTA 47, I am joined by two co-hosts in separate segments. First of all, I welcome back to the show my friend and fellow Monkee nut, Julian Gillis to discuss two classic albums released in 1967 (a watershed year for rock). First of all, we discuss “Headquarters”, the album that by and large avoids the use of session musicians and features more Monkee-penned compositions. Then we look at the next record they released “Pisces, Aquarius Capricorn & Jones”. They return to the use of outside song writing help and they share the platform with session musicians, but to great effect. Julian and I both discuss the notion about the whether they were a real band, and what their legacy has been. How do these albums stand up against other albums released by the more conventionally assembled bands of the day? We both had fun recording this one and discussing some real pop gems. But wait…there’s more Monkee business at hand. For his first LTA appearance, Terry Frost (of the wonderful “Paleo Cinema” and “Martian Drive In” podcasts) joins me to discuss the 1968 surreal piece of Monkee cinema, “Head”. To say this film has been much maligned is an understatement. Devised by Bob Rafelson, Jack Nicholson and the band while allegedly digesting a bag of fauna, this has no linear narrative to speak of – but does it have something to say? Terry and I have a good time finding out. Eric Reanimator returns with his Album I love segment to discuss the album by Danny and Dusty, “The Lost Weekend”, part of the underground paisley movement of the 80s. I really dig this album, as it reminds me of my beloved Weddings Parties Anything. Another classy segment courtesy of Eric. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”.   Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.

Episode 46 of Love That Album is here with two albums up for discussion. Having previously been graced with the company of Doctor Zom, I’m now honoured to be joined by the other half of the Silva and Gold team, Pickle Loaf (aka Alex Ladd) to talk about two vastly different Tom Waits records – 1974’s “The Heart of Saturday Night” and 1985’s “Rain Dogs”. They have superficial similarities: both are second albums (Heart for Asylum records, and Dogs for Island), and both are vastly different to what Waits’ contemporaries in the pop music world were doing. We discuss the songwriting, Charles Bukowski, Bette Midler, truck drivers, and a myriad of other things. Eric Reanimator’s “Album I Love” segment returns featuring a focus on Simon Stokes’ album “Honky”. More good listening for your earholes from Eric. NOTE: you can also download a special bonus companion LTA episode featuring an interview I had with Barney Hoskyns, author of “Lowside of the Road – A Life of Tom Waits”. He knows his Waits and gives a fascinating insight into Waits’ work. You can download both of the podcasts at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. The podcasts can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and answer the REAL question regarding the meaning of life. Tom Waits – early jazzier recordings or later experimental recordings?

I’m doing things a little bit differently for episode 44 of Love That Album. Rather than co hosting with a fellow fan of a particular album, I’ve gone straight to the source and am chatting with the musicians concerned. February this year saw the latest release from Australian singer songwriters Deborah Conway and Willie Zygier. They’ve been making wonderful albums for years, but with "Stories of Ghosts", they’ve just upped the ante. “Stories of Ghosts” is heaven for fans of brilliant songwriters – an ironic description considering the subject matter for the album is an exploration of their Jewish heritage from an atheist’s perspective. Make no mistake, however – this album is not about following a  Richard Dawkins agenda, nor is it bitter like Andy Partridge’s “Dear God.” These songs cover topics like hope, disappointment, and anger – themes that anyone can relate to – believer and non-believer alike. Deborah and Willie were fascinating interview subjects, and I hope you’ll enjoy our conversation. Song samples are included. NOTE: There were audio issues in the recording of this interview, but is still listenable overall. A good headphone listen. Eric Reanimator’s “Album I Love” segment features him talking about a metal band (I told you this was a different type of episode), The Galactic Cowboys and their album “Machine Fish”. Their album delves into questions of troubled faith, making it a perfect accompaniment to the Conway / Zygier album. …and for those of you who are concerned about how long these LTA shows run, this one is only a tad over an hour. Perfect for your work commute. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum.

Episode 43 of LTA is mammoth, huge…not (just) in length, but in content. I am joined by Ben Eisen of the All Time Top Ten podcast to discuss The Who’s “Who’s Next” album. The Who had just come off the success of Tommy, and Pete Townshend was keen to tell another story called Lifehouse. Not for him to write an ordinary kitchen sink drama – no way. Mr Townshend had big ideas about a future run by a totalitarian regime (shades of 1984) where people where linked experience suits all connected together to share common activities (predictor of the internet?). One lone man wants to bring about the long forgotten practice of rock and roll (a precursor to Footloose???) to the world by organising a concert where everyone will sing and dance themselves into such a state where they will find the lost note of purity and disappear in a flash of light…….Are you following the story so far? No? Doesn’t matter. When the project collapsed under the weight of its own heaviosity, “all” that was left was the album “Who’s Next”. Disappoiting for Townshend, but a true gift for the rock loving fraternity. This album contains the cream of song writing and musicianship. Ben and I had a blast discussing these songs, both in the context of the original Lifehouse story and as separate entities in their own right. Whether you’re into spirtituality, Sci-Fi or Keith Moon murdering his drum kit, we’ve got it covered. Also, what do Abbot & Costello and Tom Lehrer have to do with this album? Listen to the show and find out. NOTE: If you’re a Led Zeppelin fan, DO NOT send death threats after listening to this. Ben and I both love Zep, but…… Eric Reanimator returns for an excellent segment to discuss the Nuggets 2 box set. I’ve been a long time fan of Nuggets 1, so I was really keen to hear his words of wisdom about the follow up. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a war – The Who vs Led Zep. Who wins? Or should that be Who wins!

Hard to believe it’s taken 42 episodes of Love That Album to get to discuss a Richard Thompson album (considering my obsession with his music). Still, the great songwriter and guitarist’s guitarist has released a new LP and that seemed a good a reason as any to chat about it on the podcast. My guests for this discussion are John Ross (convenor of the excellent Feed My Ears FB page), returning for his second appearance on the show, and LTA newcomer Dave McLemore. Dave, like me, was a long time admirer of RT, and John had his music forced down his throat by me. So does the new album stand up to the standard set by previous recordings? Has John become a fan or did all the hype I created set RT for a fall in John’s mind? The album covers breakups (both tragic and humourous), randy senior citizens, political campaigners and guys just trying to survive on a meagre wage….usual singer/songwriter fodder. Comparisons are also made to Australian songwriting hero, Paul Kelly. John, Dave and I have a blast chatting about this record. Eric Reanimator is back talking about an EP from 90s band Animal Bag (whom he discussed in the recent Shooting The Shit episode). It’s good stuff. You can download the podcast at iTunes by searching for “love that album”. You can stream or download it at “lovethatalbum.blogspot.com”. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion on your favourite guitar hero / song writing guru.

It was 1982 - the Australian popular music landscape had a number of iconic albums released: Men at Work's "Business As Usual", Midnight Oil's "10, 9, 8...", Goanna's "Spirit of Place", Cold Chisel's "Circus Animals" and Richard Clapton's "The Great Escape". Richard was already revered as one of Australia's greatest songwriters recording music that was identifiably Australian combining a bit of surf music, hippie ideals and lyrics that would not have been out of place on early Bruce Springsteen records.In 1982, he wanted to try something a little different. Looking at what his peers were doing, he developed a tougher sound for The Great Escape utilising the skills of  the great Mark Opitz (Cold Chisel, Angels) as producer. For episode 40 of Love That Album, Michael Pursche of Sitting In a Bar In Adelaide podcast and I discuss this album, some of what went on before that, and a discussion Richard made on a certain teen TV pop music show with its "professional" host. The album starts off frantic and ends off with Richard at peace with his environment. In between, there's a song that is (in my opinion) one of the greatest, if not THE greatest pop song written in this country. The musicians on board include a who's who of the day, including members of INXS who Richard had previously produced. Eric Reanimator returns to discuss the music of cowpunk outfit, The Divine Horsemen in his segment An Album I Love. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for "love that album" in the iTunes store. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion on the best TV appearances by a rock act.

For episode 39 of Love That Album, I’m joined by Thomas Deja of the Better In The Dark podcast to discuss Aimee Mann’s album from 2000 Bachelor No. 2 or The Last Remains of the Dodo. This was Aimee’s third album, released after buying back the recordings from her unsupportive record company declaring it to have no commercial appeal (which shows part of the reason why real music lovers hold record companies in contempt). She sold it very successfully from her website until getting a wider reaching distribution deal. Aimee shares excellent company with the likes of Jon Brion (ex-Jellyfish, The Grays), Buddy Judge and husband Michael Penn to produce a suite of songs that are all at once sweet and bitter. These songs would be like eating a nice piece of apple cake, only to find out the fruit has gone rancid. The sweet melodies and harmonies are wrapped around lyrics that are bitter, accusatory, self deprecating, and resigned. What I love about some of these songs is that Aimee sings from the perspective of someone whose view of events is not necessarily reliable. This really makes for more interesting listening than some songwriters who always take the self-righteous line. I really enjoyed hearing Thomas’ take on these fine songs. We also briefly discuss some of these songs’ linkage to the terrific P.T. Anderson film, Magnolia. Eric Reanimator returns to discuss the brilliant album by Neko Case, “Fox Confessor Brings The Flood” in his Album I Love segment Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for "love that album" in the iTunes store. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion on anything musically related.

Love That Album episode 38 is doing something a little different to the usual – we’re not discussing an album. Wha???????????????????????? "Silva and Gold" podcast’s Doctor Zom and I spend the show discussing two great British movies from the early seventies – 1973’s “That’ll Be The Day” and 1974’s “Stardust”. Both films feature a lot of rock and roll, and are centred on the power it has over its audience, but unlike previous filmic excursions on LTA, we’re not discussing the soundtrack. David Essex stars in both films as Jim Maclaine and his rise from fairground attendant to rock star. Jim is a narcissist, and does not let friendships, family duty or basic human decency get in his way from getting what he wants out of life. The first film covers the period from the late 50s where he drops out of school to work at a seaside carnival, and the second covers his rise and fall with his band The Stray Cats. I think it’s a retelling of Faust in a way. Besides David Essex, the films feature Ringo Starr, Keith Moon, Adam Faith, and Larry Hagman in what was surely a precursor to J.R. Ewing. Zom and I have a lot of enjoyment discussing these great, gritty films and hopefully, our chat will inspire you to discover or revisit them. As from previous visits to the podcast, I love having Zom’s insight and contribution. Eric Reanimator returns to discuss an anthology of songs by The Troggs. Wild Thang...... Download the episode either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for "love that album" in the itunes store. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion on your favourite rock related movie.

For episode 37 of Love That Album, I’m happy to welcome Simon and Brian of the truly excellent Sodajerker on Songwriting podcast (download at www.sodajerker.com) In 1968, The Zombies were in the unfortunate position of not really having achieved the sort of success they deserved. History had been far kinder to many of their contemporaries. They decided they would record one final album (at Abbey Road, no less). It even had the ignominious misspelling of the title on the album cover – Odessey and Oracle.  A year after its release, Al Kooper had released the album on CBS in the US and the band had a smash hit with the single “Time Of The Season”. This was ironic for two reasons. The obvious one was the band had split up and there was to be no promotion. The second, more subjective irony was that this song was not typical of the style of the rest of the record. Sodajerker and I discuss the dark themes sung about on this album (war, prison, dying lonely, and that old staple, relationship heartbreak) made more palatable by glorious melodies and harmonies. This album is a bona fide classic that needs to be in every pop lover’s collection. Listen to this episode and have us convince you why. Eric Reanimator returns to discuss Hawkwind’s eponymous album in his Album I Love segment. Download the episode either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for "love that album" in the itunes store. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device after searching for “love that album”. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion on your favourite underrated bands.  

It’s time for the first episode of Love That Album podcast in 2013, and I thought I’d start the year with a depressing album to discuss….sort of. For episode 36 of LTA, I’m joined by JuanJose De laCruz of The List Music Podcast to talk about Elliott Smith’s 1998 album, XO. This was Smith’s first major label release, and he was able to sonically expand on the sound he’d created on previous albums like Either/Or. This had beautifully tasteful arrangements with piano, mellotron, occasional string arrangements and breathy vocal harmonies, as well as the standard band structure of guitar, drums and bass – and Elliott is playing most of it himself. The beauty of the music is in contrast to the lyrics that are often angry and show signs of depression. Did Smith (whose cause of death has never been fully substantiated) really have strong depression or are these songs just him getting feelings out of his system. There are moments on the album that have positive spins that appear to contradict the common wisdom that Smith suffered from depression. It was truly wonderful having such a great chat with Juan and getting his insight about an album we both love. Eric Reanimator returns to LTA in 2013 to discuss Mark Lannegan’s album Whiskey for the Holy Ghost. It’s another great segment from Eric. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for "love that album" in the itunes store. The podcast can also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device. Send me any feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start a discussion on your favourite sad songs.

The "Shooting The Shit" crew (comprising Eric Reanimator, John Stirrat, Tim Merrill and myself) reconvene to discuss our favourite albums of 2012, either released this year or albums of old we discovered this year. I think we had a fascinating discussion and hopefully you'll enjoy it too. Our tastes were broad so LOTS of new music to discover. We also had some great feedback from the listeners with their top albums of the year. This is the final LTA for 2012. We'll be back with more album discussion late January 2013. Thank you to anyone who listened to the show over the year, either occasionally or regularly, and I hope you'll come back for more in 2013. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for "love that album" (no longer has to be one word - YAY)  in the itunes store. The podcast can now also be listened to via Stitcher Radio. Download the app from stitcher.com, and listen to any episode streaming over your Android or Apple device. Over the break, you can still leave feedback at rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au orjoin the Facebook group at  http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum Enjoy your holidays folks, and speak again in the New Year.

For episode 34 of Love That Album, Michael Pursche and I discuss the first two albums by The Pretenders (funnily enough called Pretenders and Pretenders 2). Formed back in 1978, the original recorded lineup of Chrissie Hynde, Martin Chambers, Pete Farndon and James Honeyman-Scott only lasted two albums (both Scott and Farndon died of drug related causes). These are the albums where (in my opinion) the Pretenders were a real band, rather than just being a backup vehicle for Hynde. These albums are wonderfully produced by Chris Thomas who takes a different approach for each song to show off the band’s versatility. They showed they were equally at home with punk, jangly melodic pop, ballads and hard rock. If all you’d heard was the single “Brass In Pocket”, then put on the first album opener, “Precious” you were in for a rude shock. The songs sounded like they were from two different bands. No sheen, no over production. These albums are emotional and honest. Michael and I discuss our favourite songs from both these great albums. Eric Reanimator presents his “An Album I Love” segment to discuss the debut album for Concrete Blonde, another band with a distinctive female lead vocalist. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. Start a discussion at the Love That Album facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and tell us which groups or performers you think presented the most versatility on the one album.

For episode 33 of Love That Album podcast, Michael Pursche and I are not tackling a single album, but rather, looking at the overall work and career of Sky, the superband comprised of three English and two Australian musicians including classical guitar maestro John Williams (NO, NOT THAT JOHN WILLIAMS). The musicians in Sky were all session musicians or classical musicians (seen the Deer Hunter? You know John Williams. Fan of David Bowie or Lou Reed? You know the bass playing of Herbie Flowers). They’ve been tagged as a prog band, but this is so far from the truth. They used their classical influences and technique to make classical pieces their own or create their own magnificent compositions – all the while with a real sense of fun. Their concerts were as much about people smiling and laughing as well as admiring top notch musicianship. Michael and I discuss what we like about most of their albums, and talk about the backgrounds of all the band, how they changed stylistically between keyboard players and whether disco balls were a nice touch at their shows. Also on the show, I speak with the former drummer for Sky (now percussionist for London Chamber Orcehstra), Tristan Fry. He was a wonderful interview subject, very friendly and more than happy to talk about the days he spent with Sky. You really get the feeling from listening to him that these were days he treasured highly, and his enthusiasm made the interview a memory I will always cherish. For the “An Album I Love” segment, Eric Reanimator discusses Norwegian band, Ulver’s “Wars of the Roses”, a departure from their metal roots. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. Start a discussion at the Love That Album facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and tell us your favourite instrumental band.

One of the great things about doing a podcast and having a community page for the show is you get to meet fellow music lovers from the other side of the globe. I have met one such fellow, John Ross who started the excellent Feed My Ears Facebook page. For Episode 32 of Love That Album podcast, John and I discuss an album he recommended me, the excellent 2012 release for Ray Wylie Hubbard, “The Grifter’s Hymnal”. This album is a love letter to roots rock and roll and the many practitioners along the way who have inspired Hubbard. Ray loves singing about the power of rock – no lip service, he truly loves his music. He also writes about war, death, ratbag music industry executives, his own life and God. This man has a way with a lyric and telling a story, plus his music is gritty and honest. It was a great album for John and I to discuss. As usual, Eric Reanimator provides the show with another great “Album I Love” segment. He discusses the album ”Cody’s Dream” by Mark Pickerel (ex-Screaming Trees) and his Praying Hands. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. If you wish to join Feed My Ears, go to https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/373264322732907/ Start a discussion at the Love That Album facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and tell us your favourite song that mentions a famous musician as part of its lyric..

For episode 31 of Love That Album I am joined by Ben Eisen of the All Time Top Ten podcast to discuss a highlight album from a champagne year for rock music. By 1967, The Kinks had already released an enviable number of brilliantly crafted singles. Like many other bands from the so-called British Invasion, they had their blues roots (Ray Davies was particularly keen on Big Bill Broonzy), but then went on to explore other musical avenues (though no Dead End Streets – geddit????) “Something Else By The Kinks” was indeed just that. Full of great little character studies and stories, this was the band exploring British life with both affection and a little cynicism. Part psychedelia, part British music hall, this album has its place cemented in history for “Waterloo Sunset” alone. Fortunately, there are many other joys on this record. Dave Davies gets in on the songwriting action too. This album was followed by “Village Green Preservation Society” an album that has garnered more attention. As great as that record is, Ben and I have a lot of affection for “Something Else”, and we discuss why on this latest episode. Eric Reanimator returns to discuss The Soundtrack of Our Lives, “Behind The Music”. Through him, I’ve become a fan, so tune in and become a convert to this great Swedish band. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. If you want to get hold of Ben’s podcast, find it at http://alltimetopten.podomatic.com Join the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and discuss your favourite bands with family links or anything else musical you wish to bring up.

For Episode 30 of Love That Album, I’m joined by Tim Merrill to discuss the second album by the supergroup Tex, Don and Charlie, “All Is Forgiven”. Tex is Tex Perkins, ex-lead singer of Beasts of Bourbon and The Cruel Sea. Don is Don Walker, songwriter for Cold Chisel, Catfish and his current project the Suave Fucks (the best band name EVER). Charlie is Charlie Owen, guitarist extraordinaire to a myriad of projects, but probably most famous for his involvement with the Divynyls. These three gents (along with support from Shane Walsh, Garrett Costigan and the Dirty Three’s Jim White) have put together two brilliant albums of bluesy, country-esque songs with tales of murder, infidelity, spiders on the dunny (look it up) and the sort of activities that listeners to Silva and Gold podcast would appreciate on a night in. Tex and Don know how to weave compelling stories within their lyrics. The songs are simple but with melodies and arrangements that are perfect and won’t leave your head. Think of latter day Tom Waits ballads and you have an idea what this is about. Tim and I have a great old time discussing this album and a swag of other things. He has brilliant insight into music, is a great conversationalist, and it was an absolute pleasure having him on the show again. Once again, Eric Reanimator presents another great “An Album I Love” segment. This time he discusses Drivin’ and Cryin’s “Mystery Road”. A show highlight. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. Join the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and discuss your favourite supergroup (or any group comprising of members from established bands)

For episode 29 of Love That Album, I’m joined by VK Lynne, singer, podcaster (at the List Music Podcast) and obsessive Nightwish fan. Sting. He has his share of admirers and detractors. There are those who love him for his time as a Police man and hate his solo material decrying it as boring AOR. Some just hate how ubiquitous he is in the media. Putting those external factors aside, I’m a huge admirer of his 1993 album “Ten Summoner’s Tales” with its (mostly) excellent songcraft. He has a crack band, including the great keyboardist David Sancious ex of the E Street Band. VK and I discuss Ten Summoner’s Tales, and come to strong disagreements over the merits of the production of this record and as to whether Sting is obsessed with stalking. We also hear one of VK’s own great tunes. Eric Reanimator returns with another Album I Love segment covering an early Queensryche album, knowing VK is a fan of the band. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. Join the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum and start up a music related chat.  

For episode 28 of Love That Album, I am joined initially by previous co-presenter John Stirrat, regular segment contributor Eric Reanimator, and later in the show by music and film enthusiast Tim Merrill to just chat about whatever music-related issues come to mind. There is no set album to discuss – we just chat about what we’ve been listening to, music snobbery, whether the predicted imminent death of the CD format is just a load of Bolshoi Ballet, Cambodian garage bands, plus a heap of other things. This show was a heap of fun, and I will definitely schedule in more of these types of specials from time to time. I truly hope you enjoy listeming to this one as much as John, Eric, Tim and I had in recording it. Get in contact with me if you feel you’d like to take part in the next one of these specials. Music in this episode by Melbourne band, Silver Ray. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. Join the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum  and start up a musical discussion on anything YOU want to shoot the shit about.

1992 saw the release of the album considered to be Los Lobos’ masterpiece, Kiko. They formed a partnership with Mitchell Froom and Tchad Blake who produced and engineered an album that sounded both familiar and different. I cannot believe that it’s been 20 years since the release of Kiko. Los Lobos is celebrating by releasing a 20th anniversary edition of the album, and I’m celebrating by making it the focus of Episode 27 of Love That Album podcast. I’m joined by Michael Pursche (of the great Sitting In A Bar In Adelaide podcast) to discuss the album song by song. I’m also thrilled to chat to Steve Berlin, the band’s saxophonist and keyboard player, about his recollections of recording the album, its legacy and being on Sesame Street as a day job (listen and find out – it’s a great story). Also, Eric Reanimator joins us again to discuss the Jet Black Berries album “Desperate Fires”. It’s another great segment from Eric. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. Join the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum  and start up a musical discussion on anything from albums you love to who was the best musical guest on Sesame Street.  

1968 arrived and The Byrds were not the same lineup that had produced the jangly folk-pop their fans had grown to know and love. Down to Roger McGuinn and Chris Hillman, they recruited Kevin Kelley and Gram Parsons to their ranks. Parsons convinced the group to do an all country record called Sweetheart of the Rodeo, now cited as a big influence on country rock. This was not The Byrds as we’d heard them before – although they were never going to desert their Bob Dylan covers. For episode 26 of Love That Album podcast, I am privileged to be joined by Rockwiz host, Brian Nankervis to discuss this important record. Was this a country-rock record or pure country? As rock fans, would we be paying attention to it today if it had not been a Byrds album? Was McGuinn taking the piss out of a Louvin Brothers song? Did The Band or The Byrds interpret Dylan better? Brian and I discuss all this and more on the show. For any listeners outside of Australia who haven’t had the good fortune to seeBrian’s show Rockwiz, you can catch recent full episodes online at http://www.sbs.com.au/rockwiz/ (and if you’re a rock trivia buff and a comedy fan, this is ESSENTIAL viewing) Eric Reanimator joins us again to discuss (appropriately enough) the “Honky Tonk Heroes” album by Waylon Jennings. With Jennings’ very direct connection to early rock and roll, there’s ample evidence that country and rock are a great fit. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. I’d love to hear anything you have to say about the show or your thoughts on an album you really llove. Join the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum

The late seventies saw Australian music going towards a punk style (featuring bands like the Saints) or continuing with a more bluesy-country style as typified by the Adelaide band, Stars (not to be confused with the band from Canada of the same name). Featuring impeccable musicianship and wonderful songwriting courtesy of guitarists, Andy Durant and Mal Eastick, they crafted two wonderful studio albums which, while having American roots influences, told very Australian stories. On Episode 25 of Love That Album, I’m joined once again by host of Sitting In A Bar In Adelaide podcast, Michael Pursche to discuss both the Stars studio albums, “Paradise” and “Land of Fortune” and make reference to an all-star live album in tribute to Andy Durant who sadly died in 1980 from cancer. I'm also extremely happy to be having a chat to Mick Pealing, the former lead singer of Stars, to discuss his recollections of recording these two wonderful albums and how the Andy Durant Memorial Concert got arranged. Eric Reanimator contributes another great An Album I Love segment discussing the great "Radios Appear" album by Radio Birdman. Download the show either from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in the itunes store. Send any feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au – either written or mp3. Join the facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum

On episode 24 of Love That Album podcast, Thomas Deja of the “Better In The Dark”podcast and myself delve into the dark album that is Ben Folds’ “Songs For Silverman”. He credits his wife of the time with being a source of inspiration for him on the album’s liner notes, and yet, this is most definitely a breakup album – it just happened to be released before the breakup took place. Among the songs of marital discordance, there are songs about death, fatherhood (from the perspective of a father and a son), and mortality. This is a long way from “One Angry Dwarf” and “Underground”. Yet, Folds has never shied away from dark material. This album is as melodically beautiful as it is heartbreaking – it’s his “Seachange”. Thomas and I had a great conversation and I hope you enjoy. There’s a slight experimental change with the format this time. Music samples are played before each song is discussed rather than being played as background to the discussion. Does this work? Let me know. (There’s a slight hiccup on this occasion with the music sounding slightly sped up, but that will be rectified for the next show) Also, Eric Reanimator presents another fantastic “An Album I Love” segment delving into the late 70s British punk scene. Download from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in itunes store. Send written or mp3 feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au. Join the Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/about/groups#!/groups/348826705157119/

On Episode 23 of Love That Album podcast, Mondo Film podcast presenter Justin Bozung and I discuss the sheer wonderfulness that is Big Star’s “#1 Record”. Out of all the bands that went nowhere in their day, Big Star was the most undeserving of such a fate. In the early 70s, when existing band Icewater comprising Jody Stephens, Andy Hummel and Chris Bell invited Alex Chilton (of Box Tops fame) to join their ranks, they released a debut album of such breathtaking melodic beauty, it still leaves music fans mystified how circumstances worked so heavily against them. They were from Memphis, but their hearts belonged to England and the 60s harmony drenched pop of The Beatles and The Kinks (plus some Beach Boys thrown in for good measure).  #1 Record was the only album with this line-up. Chris Bell left the band depressed with the apathetic way the album was distributed, leaving music fans interested (and critics raving) but unavailable in record stores. As usual, we also have another wonderful “An Album I Love” segment from Eric Reanimator. Download from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or search for “lovethatalbum” in itunes store. Send written or mp3 feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au and join the Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/about/groups#!/groups/348826705157119/

The Gaslight Anthem have in the last few years attracted a dedicated following with their cross of modern punk and Springsteen influences.  Songwriter Brian Fallon has put together a side project called The Horrible Crowes for material that would not necessarily work in the context of his main band. If you’ve listened to previous episodes of Love That Album with Geoff Smith as my fellow commentator, you’d know of his love for both of these bands. In episode 20 of LTA, Geoff, John Stirrat and myself discuss The Horrible Crowes album, “Elsie”, in detail covering the themes being written about in the album, as well as the music and lyrics. We ask the big questions – is Brian Fallon a stalker? Does he take self pity a little too far or has he had his heart put through the grinder, and is dealing with it the same way Roy Orbison, Chris Isaak and even Beck dealt with it? This was a heated discussion, and we didn’t all agree on the merits or otherwise of this album – which makes for a (hopefully) interesting show.  We also discuss the John Peel archives being made public…in a virtual sort of way. Also, Eric Reanimator returns with his segment “An Album I Love” to discuss a classic album from the Screaming Trees. Download from iTunes store (search for lovethatalbum – all one word) or from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com. Send feedback to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au Join the “Love That Album” Facebook group and start a music discussion.

I have been heard to say that I don’t believe in guilty pleasures. You like what you like – end of story. As will be obvious from Episode 19 of Love That Album, I love Billy Joel’s album “The Stranger”. Nowadays in some people’s eyes (and for someone from this list you KNOW who you are), that is an admission tantamount to confessing to having an STD. The fact of the matter is that this album is full of well constructed songs – melodically rich, well arranged, mainly (though not completely) clever lyrically – and it should be held in high esteem. Now I’ll admit that beyond a point his albums started getting very dull (everything after The Nylon Curtain) and his fame for dating supermodels rather than as a musician was a put-off. None of that should get in the way of the fact that for a time, he had a real knack with a song and had a fantastic band to support his musical vision (including the great Liberty Devitto on drums). Fellow “Stranger” fan, Michael Pursche (of the Sitting In A Bar in Adelaide podcast) and I discuss the songs sung and stories told on Joel’s breakthrough album. On this episode, we also discuss recent music news including the passing of some of pop music greats. Eric Reanimator returns with his thoughts on Mother Love Bone (and he now has his own intro). Stream or download the episode from http://lovethatalbum.blogspot.com or download from iTunes searching for lovethatalbum (must be all one word). Join the Love That Album Facebook page and start a music conversation. Send feedback (letter or mp3) to rrrkitchen@yahoo.com.au.