Podcast appearances and mentions of Kevin Drew

On this week's Talkhouse Podcast, we've got a pair of old friends who dive right in on some light-hearted topics like death and aging: Amy Millan and Kevin Drew. Both Amy and Kevin are deeply connected to the Canadian indie scene that took shape in the late 1990s around Broken Social Scene. That band was initially Kevin's baby, but a whole constellation seemed to spring from it, including Metric, Feist, and the band that Amy is most closely associated with, Stars. The impetus for today's conversation, though, is Millan's gorgeous new solo album, I Went to Find You. It's her first in 15 years, and as you'll hear in this conversation, was inspired by stirred-up feelings about the death of her father when she was just a little kid. Millan created the album with a musician she only met recently, Jay McCarrol, after a chance encounter with him that stirred up some dormant emotions about her childhood. It's a really beautiful and quietly triumphant record that's worth some time and attention in your headphones. Check out “Kiss That Summer” right here. Kevin Drew directed that great video for that song, and he's got bona fides when it comes to writing songs about difficult subjects, too: His latest solo album, Aging, came out in 2023, and you might be able to guess what it's about from that title. It's a topic that Kevin and Amy get into here as they get deep and sweet together—they were even a little worried they'd forget they were being recorded since they're such close friends. They talk about Amy's record but also, perhaps for the first time on Talkhouse, perimenopause. There's also memories of Hal Willner, a great name for Amy's tour that she didn't end up using, and living in your “who gives a fuck” years. Enjoy. Thanks for listening to the Talkhouse Podcast and thanks to Amy Millan and Kevin Drew for chatting. If you liked what you heard, please follow Talkhouse on your favorite podcasting platform and check out all the great stuff in the Talkhouse Podcast Network. This episode was produced by Myron Kaplan, and the Talkhouse theme is composed and performed by the Range. See you next time! Find more illuminating podcasts on the ⁠⁠⁠Talkhouse Podcast Network⁠⁠⁠. Visit ⁠⁠⁠talkhouse.com⁠⁠⁠ to read essays, reviews, and more. Follow @talkhouse on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Bluesky⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Twitter (X)⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Threads⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠.

An arrest has been made in the shooting of two Democratic Minnesota state lawmakers and their spouses, Israel and Iran are trading missile strikes with few signs of deescalation, President Trump has arrived at the G7 in Canada, and the Justice Department sent an unprecedented demand for election data to the state of Colorado.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Alex Leff, Roberta Rampton, Janaya Williams and Arezou Rezvani. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Claire Murashima and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This episode of Across The Margin : The Podcast features an interview with Stephen Chung, an award-winning cinematographer with well over twenty years of experience in moving images. Stephen's career began as a stills photographer, working in the commercial, fashion, and music industries in Canada and Europe for over a decade. In the 90s, his photography evolved into cinematography, and his earliest credits were music videos for artists such as Feist, Broken Social Scene, Do Make Say Think, Buck 65 and Blue Rodeo. Stephen has worked with Viceland, HBO, Discovery, Nat Geo, History Channel, 20th Century Fox, and The CBC. His most recent documentary — It's All Gonna Break — is the focus of this episode. Imagine being a fly on the wall at the birth of a musical movement that would change indie rock forever. In early 2000s in Toronto, a group of young creative musicians collectively known as, Broken Social Scene, got together and soon became a worldwide phenomenon. It's All Gonna Break is an electrifying and intimate documentary about the indie rock band that redefined the sound of a generation. Filmmaker and longtime friend Stephen Chung was there from the beginning, capturing the chaos, creativity, and camaraderie that fueled their rise and caught on camera the making of the iconic album You Forgot It In People. With never-before-seen archival footage and new interviews with Kevin Drew, Leslie Feist, Brendan Canning, Emily Haines, Amy Millan, and more, the film traces the band's evolution from raw basement jams to global stages. A love letter to independent music, It's All Gonna Break is a vibrant time capsule of a pre-digital era and a moving reflection on friendship, art, and the freedom to create on your own terms. Attend a screening of It's All Gonna Break! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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The man arrested in Colorado for an attack on people demonstrating in support of Israeli hostages being held by Hamas is facing a federal hate crime charge and multiple felonies. A second round of talks between Russia and Ukraine did not result in a ceasefire but the two countries did agree to a new prisoner swap. And, following months of political turmoil South Koreans are voting for a new president. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Eric Whitney, Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zo van Ginhoven and our technical director is Carleigh Strange. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ukraine hit Russia with a series of remote drone strikes hours before peace talks in Turkey. The Republican-led Senate returns from recess and is tasked with passing President Trump's budget plan. And, a man is in custody following an attack on people at an event calling attention to Israeli hostages being held by Hamas. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Jason Breslow, Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson and Adriana Gallardo. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Officials in Israel and Washington are condemning the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy employees outside a Jewish museum in Washington. Plus, Israel seeks full control of Gaza as a condition to end its war with Hamas, and Republicans close in on passage of a massive bill at the heart of President Trump's domestic agenda.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Gigi Douban, Kevin Drew, Carrie Kahn, Kelsey Snell, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Zac Coleman and Josh Sauvagvau. Our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The latest on the president's massive tax and immigration bill as it faces continued resistance from both moderate and hardline Republicans. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will travel to Washington next week as relations between the U.S. and South Africa are at their lowest since the end of apartheid. An NPR analysis finds that the ad hoc Department of Government Efficiency keeps finding new parts of the federal government to try to shrink.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Brett Neely, Tara Neill, Ally Schweitzer and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis and our technical director is David Greenburg.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The diagnosis of prostate cancer for the former president comes just days ahead of the release of a book detailing questions about his mental fitness as president. Israel's military says troops are now operating in multiple points throughout Gaza strip, in an operation dubbed Gideon's Chariots. More than two dozen people are dead in Kentucky, Missouri and Virginia after tornadoes and storms over the weekend. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Carrie Kahn, Anna Yukhananov, Ally Schweitzer, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Most music fans know Kevin Hearn as the pianist and songwriter for Barenaked Ladies. Few would know that Kevin was the band leader for Lou Reed for 7 emotional years.  Or that he fought a battle with leukemia for many years, even while touring with BNL.   Gord Downie knew all those stories when he asked Kevin Hearn and Kevin Drew to help him prepare for live performances of his final music project - Secret Path! Because he had just been down his own darkened  path , Kevin Hearn was able to bring comfort and  strength to the recording of Gord's final songs.  Kevin takes us though those moments including Gord's last words to him, about his friendship with Lou Reed and then takes us on another journey - this time to Jamaica.   Kevin's new solo album is called Portland Parish. Recorded in three locations. A small jungle cottage, the legendary Trident Hotel and the long-abandoned Trident Castle.  Kevin plays originals, covers (Lou Reed and Sun Ra Arkestra) on a collection of creaking pianos weathered by time and nature. If you listen closely, you can hear chirping frogs and dogs barking in the distance. Several of the pianos were damaged and barely playable.  Kevin says, "The idea was to seek out semi-abandoned pianos in spaces said to be haunted and improvise."

In this 1684th episode of Toronto Mike'd, Mike chats with Brendan Canning about forming hHead with Noah Mintz, playing in By Divine Right with Feist, appearing on Len's Steal My Sunshine, forming Broken Social Scene with Kevin Drew, and Let's Get Friendship Right May 9 at The Garrison. Toronto Mike'd is proudly brought to you by Great Lakes Brewery, Palma Pasta, Ridley Funeral Home, Toronto Maple Leafs Baseball, Yes We Are Open, Nick Ainis and RecycleMyElectronics.ca. If you would like to support the show, we do have partner opportunities available. Please email Toronto Mike at mike@torontomike.com

Economists warned about an economic slowdown on the horizon for most countries around the world in the wake of century-high US tariffs. European, Ukrainian and U.S. officials meet in London for peace talks on Russia's war on Ukraine, and crowds began lining up at Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican to pay their last respects to Pope Francis.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Rafael Nam, Kevin Drew, Ryland Barton, Janaya Williams and Arezou Rezvani. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Damian Herring. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The Trump Administration invoked a wartime law called the Alien Enemies Act to deport hundreds of Venezuelans accused of being gang members, several legal immigrants living in the US were denied reentry into the country, and a powerful storm system killed dozens in the Midwest and South.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Luis Clemons, Alice Woelfle and Janaya Williams. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Destinee Adams, Zachary Coleman and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is David Greenburg. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Trump's special envoy heads to Moscow for talks as Russia reviews a U.S. backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine. The White House is rolling back more than two dozen environmental protections regulations, a move critics warn could lead to more pollution and health risks. And, Iran's Supreme Leader rejects President Trump's effort to start nuclear talks, calling it a deceptive attempt to pressure Tehran.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Neela Bannerjee, Kevin Drew, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As Ukraine begins ceasefire negotiations in Saudi Arabia, the Trump administration signals that aid could resume if Ukraine makes concessions. A steep sell-off on Wall Street followed new tariffs from China and Canada, as investors worry that Trump's trade policies could tip the U.S. into a recession. And, after an ICE arrest at Columbia University, the U.S. Education Department is warning 60 universities they could face penalties over antisemitism investigations.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Rafael Nam, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Canada's ruling Liberal Party has a new leader, Mark Carney, a former central banker who now faces the challenge of steering the country through economic turmoil and a tense trade relationship with the United States. Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate student and pro-Palestinian activist, has been arrested by ICE agents. And, House Republicans unveil a stopgap funding bill to keep the government running through September, but with Democrats opposing it, passing the bill will require almost every GOP vote.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neill, Kevin Drew, Krishnadev Calamur, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent, and our technical director is David Greenberg.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

For the 20th anniversary of Stars' breakthrough third album, Set Yourself on Fire, we take a detailed look at how it was made. After Torquil Campbell and Chris Seligman grew up together in Toronto, they formed Stars when they were living in New York City. Their first album, Nightsongs, was made with the help of their friends in Metric and several guest singers, including Amy Millan. Deciding to relocate to Montreal, they added Amy Millan and Evan Cranley as full-time members. Their second album, Heart, was released in 2003 by Paper Bag Records and the new label Arts & Crafts, which was co-founded by their friend Kevin Drew of Broken Social Scene. For their ambitious third record, they brought in drummer Pat McGee and producer Tom McFall. Set Yourself on Fire was eventually released in 2004. In this episode, Torquil Campbell discusses the early days of the band as an outlier in the New York City rock scene and how they found their people when they moved to Montreal. He describes his vision of having both male and female vocalists and how when Amy Millan joined, they could start telling stories from two different sides. Amy Millan discusses her initial reluctance to join the band, but how she was able to cement her place as co-lead singer and develop her songwriting voice. She also describes the alchemy of the relationships in Stars and how despite some romantic turmoil within the band around the time of this album, they've remained deeply connected to one another decades later. Evan Cranley talks about his musical partnership with Chris Seligman and how the two of them were able to collaborate to develop song structures in an orchestral pop style. Chris Seligman describes how his background in classical music, his love of string arrangements and his perfectionist tendencies impacted the music they made together. From the vibrant Montreal music scene of the early 2000s to an encounter with a stranger in a bar that led to a house where the songs were written to connecting with Tom McFall in London to a big fight in North Hatley to a mad dash to finish string arrangements at that last minute to personal lyrics about love, death and the band itself, we'll hear the stories of how the record came together.

In his first address to Congress of this term, President Trump criticized Democrats and highlighted his administration's policy achievements. Trump used his address to Congress to highlight his administration's aggressive immigration policies, including designating certain gangs as terrorist organizations. And, China's premier outlined the nation's economic priorities and Beijing's retaliation against new U.S. tariffs.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Roberta Rampton, Kevin Drew, Ryland Barton, Alice Woelfle and Mohamad ElBardicy.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Chris Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis, our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Confusion remains after the "What did you do last week?" email that federal workers received, the Trump administration's break with European allies over Ukraine was reflected in several votes at the UN, funds set aside to keep the Colorado River flowing have been halted, and a surgeon in France is on trial for abusing his young patients.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neil, Eric Whitney, Kevin Drew, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Federal workers are experiencing confusion after receiving an email demanding a list of their work accomplishments, the French President and British Prime Minister are meeting with President Trump this week in Washington to try to sway him on Ukraine, Germany is getting a new Chancellor, and the environmental group Greenpeace is is facing a multimillion dollar lawsuit for allegedly disrupting construction of an oil pipeline. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ryland Barton, Kevin Drew, Neela Banerjee, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

At least a dozen Justice Department employees involved in prosecuting President Trump received dismissal notices, humanitarian parole programs are ending for 1.4 legal immigrants to the US and a Chinese company has developed a free competitor to ChatGPT.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Eric Westervelt, Anna Yukhananov, Kevin Drew, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Claire Murashima. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

1,000 days of war have devastated Ukraine and transformed life in Russia, as President Vladimir Putin expands nuclear threats amid the escalating conflict. In Hong Kong, pro-democracy activists are sentenced under a sweeping national security law. And, President-elect Donald Trump promises sweeping tax cuts, but experts warn his plans could deepen the national debt.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Ryland Barton, Rafael Nam, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Milton Guevara.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

On the first day of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, President Biden gave a keynote speech passing the torch to Vice President Harris. Activists in Chicago have assembled outside of the DNC to protest the war in Gaza, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due in Egypt and Qatar to continue Gaza ceasefire negotiations.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Megan Pratz, Kevin Drew, Greg Dixon, Janaya Williams and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Robert Rodriguez. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

It's been a minute, but Distorted Minds is finally back with an all-new movie talk episode! Drew's pick this week is the 2015 crime/comedy movie Dope, from director Rick Famuyiwa. It's about a group of high school kids who accidentally end up with a big bag of drugs and are forced to sell them. Kevin's choice this time is Alexander Payne's 2004 dramedy film, Sideways. It stars Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church as a couple of friends who go out to wine country before one of them gets married. Big thanks to anyone who's still tuning in, we love you and have a great week! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/distortedminds/support

Deadly protests over Kenya tax hikes. U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich stands trial for espionage in Russia. And Republican vice presidential candidates make their final pitch to Donald Trump.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Tara Neill, Kevin Drew, John Helton, Megan Pratz, Olivia Hampton and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Nina Kravinsky.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Hannah Gluvna.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Israel's defense chief meets with senior U.S. officials over the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, gunmen kill more than 19 police officers and civilians in southern Russia, abortions up two years since the Supreme Court revoked federal abortion protections.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Catherine Laidlaw, John Helton, Olivia Hampton and Lisa Thomson. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Christopher Thomas and Nina Kravinsky.Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week on Discovering Downie the gang takes a look at the haunting fifth record in Gord's discography, Secret Path. Transcript:Track 1:[0:01] Hey, it's JD here, and we wanted to take a moment to thank you for tuning in to Discovering Downey. That said, it's time to take this relationship to the next level. Live, baby, live. Friday, July 19th, Long Slice Brewery presents a celebration of Gord Downey. Tickets are now on sale at DiscoveringDowney.com. Come for the finale of Discovering Downey with special guest Patrick Downey and stay for the HIP Tribute Act, the Almost HIP, and our fantastic silent auction. All proceeds from this project will go to the Gord Downey Fund for Brain Cancer Research. So come out to the show because seeing is believing and you won't believe what we've got in store for you until you see it yourself. Get your tickets today.Track 1:[0:53] The goalie who lives across the street. Jean Beliveau is welcome anytime at the outdoor rink in the park just across from my house for morning hockey under blue skies this winter. Birds wheeling overhead, rushing temperatures, lousy to no gear. I'm the goalie who lives across the street. Kids play with smokes hanging out of their mouths. Beautiful huck hogs with incredible tricks. They are so easily fatigued that you can't.Track 1:[1:32] Two minutes for it. I saw his blood, a billowing crimson cloud against the milk white ice. That's an infraction here. When the predatory follow the puck down to the other end, my net swarms like the great barrier reef of the smaller fish. My crease fills with good questions and wobbly wrist shots. There are no bad questions, only bad wrist shots. And then there are the parents always yelling, always telling them where to aim. At the rink across the street, Jerry Cheevers is welcome Welcome any time. Welcome, music lovers. Long Slice Brewery presents Discovering Downey.Track 1:[2:13] Hey, it's JD here, and welcome to Discovering Downey, an 11-part project with a focus on the music and poetry of Mr. Gord Downey. The late frontman of the Tragically Hip gave to the world an extensive solo discography on top of The Hip's vocal acrobatics that awed us for years. So far, he's released eight records in total, three of them posthumously. Now listen, you might be the biggest fan of The Hip out there, but have you really listened to these solo records? Because I'm an inquisitive podcaster, I enlisted my friends Craig, Justin, and Kirk, giant fans in their own right, to discover Downey with me, JD, as their host. Every week we get together and listen to one of Gord's records, working in chronological order. We discuss and dissect the album, the production, the lyrics, and we break it down song by song. This week we're going to be talking about Gord's fifth record, his last release before his death in October of 2017. This is a sobering, thoughtful, and potentially triggering album called Secret Path. Justice St. Louis, how goes? Things are busy, but things are good. And this is the thing that I look forward to the most out of my many, many things that I have going on.Track 1:[3:38] Racing all the time and kid stuff all the time and soccer is in full swing and everything is fun. But this is the thing that I can kind of crack a beer and relax and hang out with you dudes and just enjoy what we're doing. Well, that's lovely. Yeah. I'm glad you're enjoying this. Me too. Kirk from Chino, are you ready to get going on this one? I am ready. Yeah, it's a big one, right? Yeah, it is. I mean, obviously there's that nervous anticipation, I think is a good way to describe it. This of all we've been through that has been obviously just amazing and overwhelming as you mentioned like how did we not dive into this before you know especially with our love of the hip but then this comes along and just when you think you're you know you got your head wrapped around it it just goes to a whole nother level and uh again just something peeling back those layers And just finding out more about what an incredible individual that we had the chance to be on earth with at the same time. And obviously as much as we miss him.Track 2:[4:49] And we do miss him so much. Fuck.Track 1:[4:54] Craig, what's news? news oh not too much same as justin i've got a lot going on with you know my son in baseball my daughter in soccer the band work um which you know is mostly good but can be can be tough this time of year looking forward to digging into this album i've this is the one album i said coming into this project that i actually do have experience with so i've i've.Track 1:[5:20] Been listening to this since it came out, and so a bit of a different experience this week for me. Yeah, I suspect we're going to be leaning on some of your learnings over the years as we dive into the music. So that'll be interesting to compare and contrast what we've got from the record, or what the other fellas have got from the record, and compare and contrast it to what you've learned over the years. Yeah. I could tell you that after years of waiting for some kind of concept record from Gord or the Tragically Hip, we finally get that on Gord's fifth and final record released during his lifetime. After being moved by a late 1960s article from McLean's magazine, he began to honor the legacy of its subject matter, the young indigenous child named Jenny Wenjack. Secret Path was released as part of a multimedia experience, including a book, animated video, and of course, the standout 10-track album. To call this album chilling is an understatement. There is no happy ending for our protagonists, and Gord's voice reflects that throughout the 41-minute runtime of this album. The sparse production and instrumentation underscores the haunting lyrics and melodies Gord has conjured on this release.Track 1:[6:35] Don't fall into the trap of thinking you must listen to this record from start to finish to really get it. There are plenty of songs for song's sake on this release, and they can certainly be enjoyed without the context of the entire record, but clearly the record is designed to be listened to front to back, ultimately. Produced by Kevin Drew over a couple sessions years apart, the record dropped in the midst of Gord's battle with cancer, but that didn't stop him from making certain everybody knew the importance of Chani's story. This is an important record as a music fan and as a Canadian. Understanding our past is key to informing our future, and Gord and his cohorts outdid themselves on this effort, and it is a must-listen to unlocking the legacy work in Gord's memory.Track 1:[7:25] Kirk, talk to me about your first experience with Secret Path. Well, as extensive as Craig, this is the only actual Gord Downie album that I listened to once through maybe three years ago, four years ago, after I read the book and mentioned parts of it. Not the actual graphic novel, but the tragically hip book where they have discussions about some of his solo stuff. So, you know, I had gone through the songs once before, but what I typically like to do when I'm doing the first lesson is go for a walk. And so I'm listening to it while I'm, you know, walking the dog and have my headsets in and usually at night. So it's quiet out outside of, you know, the birds and whatever other sounds are going around. And, you know, it like we'd all kind of mentioned this is this is a heavy heavy heavy heavy album and heavy songs and as that journey progressed and I would listen to the actual vinyl and then watch some stuff on online and listen in my vehicle and obviously I you know it was I think of all the albums this one it really.Track 1:[8:41] Drives you to do the research and to really listen and to really understand what it's all about. And probably, I don't know, like 20, 20 something listens in. And I finally watched the actual cartoon. And then I got the book around the same time and it changed everything. Think it had already made an incredible impact on me and then i got the you know finally got the graphic novel in and i watched the the 45 minute or so cartoon or or film of it you then see, what is being written about yeah and you see it in such a dramatic fashion and honestly gentlemen And it, it, it, it emphasized and changed a lot of the meaning of the songs that I had already listened to 20 times and had an opinion on and had done some research and read the lyrics, but I hadn't, I hadn't seen it. And that, that novel and, and then watching the, the, the, the film, I mean, to be bold is, is life-changing. You can love it and enjoy it, and it can uplift you, but I think that the topic and the subject matter deserves reverence, and so it has mine. Craig, you have a lot of history.Track 1:[10:08] With this record but i'm wondering if you can think back to the first time you heard it what was your experience like then that's tough it's it's um for me the the animation and the, and the the songs have always gone hand in hand i've always i'm so i'm not sure i've mentioned this before but i'm um i teach you know grade seven students and this is something i have used in my class every year since it's come out um i'll talk more a little bit more about that a little bit later so to me they've always been tied together and every year for me it's like a like peeling back another layer and it's just been amazing over the years to share it with with so many kids and and hearing different perspectives and different things i hadn't thought about um sharing you know my ideas with them and it's always a highlight of the year you know of course you know a very serious topic and um you know they get the heaviness of it And I think that's the beauty of using art to educate about topics like this. Of course, you shouldn't just use this, but as a supplement to your teaching, it's really powerful. And yeah, they really do enjoy it for the most part.Track 1:[11:22] Justin, what are your initial thoughts of the record? I feel guilty that there's still a huge group of people that celebrate and get angry about the fact that others are trying to change the way that we are educated here, that Columbus Day is a thing in the States, and that Indigenous Peoples Day hasn't been adopted universally. You know, there's a strong contingent of Abnaki and Mohawk in this area. And I do know, you know, people that are affiliated with those tribes and those groups. And I just kind of want to say I'm sorry all the time. Like this album and the novel and the video, exceptionally moving. Kirk said, I can't be happy when I'm listening to it. I really think some of the songs musically are phenomenal and I want to dance to them. But I also am like, don't dance to this. What are you doing? Yeah, I really love, and I mean that word, I love this album and this project. If I can say one more thing too, coming into this whole journey with you guys, this was my reference point. And I knew how amazing this album was. And I honestly.Track 1:[12:46] Was terrified to dig into coke machine glow and all these other albums and just be disappointed, and so i would i've been super happy that that all those albums were so great knowing that this masterpiece was coming up like and i don't use that word lightly this this might be the best thing gourd ever made and you guys know how much i love the hip and how much i love you know battle of the nudes but but like you said justin it's very somber and it's a it's a whole different from Beast. I want to also say this as kind of a disclaimer that I don't want to give the impression that I know what I'm talking about on this episode because I don't. My research about this is only surface level. Kirk and I, I don't know if I can speak for you, but I think we've talked about this, that we don't really have a deep enough understanding of what this album represents. And, you know, I do want to lean on you, Craig, and you, JD, as you guys would know, you know, intimately more about the subject. And I have really enjoyed learning and I have deep dove into several podcasts. And I would absolutely recommend, if I can get it out there now, there's a guy named Chris Waite who has an Anishinaabe podcast, which is fantastic. And I listened to five or six hours of it so far and I've read things and I've listened to other podcasts. And some of it is the same regurgitated thing that I think they probably just read off Wikipedia or something, but there are some that really do a great job. And Kirk, you said it again, this is life-changing and I actually care about this. I've already forgotten half the songs on all the other albums that we've listened to, but I won't with this one. Yeah. I mean, obviously he had a tremendous platform and this was something that became very important to him in his later years. But it's interesting that, you know, work was started on this record in 2012. Yeah, that part to me, J.D., was... Starting the recording in 2012 and 2013 and then not releasing till 2016, correct? Yeah, he was waiting for the 50-year anniversary of Jane's passing. So that was a date, I believe, that was always there. I'm going to use this opportunity to do my own disclaimer. And that is to just say that not all people would agree that this is Gord's story to tell. I just want to acknowledge that that is a valid opinion to have. And so if you're listening and you're thinking this is not his story to tell, I totally get what you're saying. Excellent point, Craig. That's something that we need to be very careful around. So if you are listening to this and this is something that could be triggering, whether it's the subject matter or the people telling the story or the people interpreting the telling of that story, if this If this is something that is going to make you squeamish or uncomfortable or trigger something in you deeper than that, please turn off the podcast now. We'll be here when you're ready. This isn't going away. Let's get to the first track, though, fellas. This is an absolutely haunting song. It's called The Stranger.Track 1:[21:07] Yeah, so right away, the tone is set with the soundscape, the introduction, you know, probably 30 seconds before the guitar comes in. And when it comes in, it's unmistakably Gord playing that guitar. And, you know, it's something he, it feels very much like something he would write. And it has an odd feel to it. It's really hard to sing along to.Track 1:[21:32] And the phrasing makes it really unique.Track 1:[21:35] He sometimes starts right on beat one, and sometimes there's this little pickup and makes it a little disorienting at first, but it gets into a more sort of repetitive style afterwards. But the heartbeat in the drums, really haunting piano, just all just sets the tone perfectly. The lyrics, again, they're just just setting up the story i really enjoy the the contrast you've got the playful you know the boy walking down the the railroad tracks he's jumping to the right he's jumping to the left and and this is something that'll come back a little bit later too as this you know basically the whole the whole story is set present time of the story is him walking down the track until he you know passes the line and what i'm feeling is anyone's guess what is in my head and what is in my chest to me that might be gourd's way of almost saying this this is like an artistic telling of this story like this isn't meant to be a literal this isn't an encyclopedia entry about about cheney this is felt that same thing craig yeah yeah it's very much centered in emotion and because you know there is no way of knowing what he was really going through so gourd is just tapping into all these human emotions that one could imagine you would go through so and that is one of the critiques of this album that i've read is that you know it's not 100 factual well i really don't think that's the point this this is a much larger story than this isn't about one one boy i mean.Track 1:[23:05] It is but it's also about canada it's about it's about everything it's and a couple of other you know quick things so the memories if you're looking at the animation and the the graphic novel this first song starts with memories and the the main thing you'll notice right away is You've got the cold colors, the blues in the residential school memories and walking along the track too. In contrast with when he's talking about his family. So he talks about his dad. Dad is not my dad. My dad is not a wild man. So the goal of the government was to assimilate Indigenous peoples who were quote unquote uncivilized. It actually shows the opposite. It shows that his memories of his family are of love. Oh, man. Yeah.Track 1:[23:56] Kirk, what do you think? Take us there, brother. Throughout all of these songs and what's laid as a foundation for us with The Stranger is there's always hope. The hauntingness of this song sets the tone. Like you mentioned, Craig, the coloring is, as I said earlier, when I saw it, when I read it and I saw it, it changed the meaning for things. But that to me is, I try to be an optimist. I loved the color. I don't know that I would have survived if there was no color in this because there needed to be that light and that division of those families and in the colors that they were to have any sort of pathway out of this. Yeah, and also just showing that he had a very rich life. It shows him learning how to make a fire, how to fish, all these cultural teachings that were life, were valuable.Track 1:[24:54] So anyways, I just want to mention one other thing. Another great visual in the graphic novel is the raven feather falling and transitioning into the hare. So upon arrival to the residential school, Chani's remembering his first day when they're being showered and probably scrubbed with harsh chemicals, which there are many stories of this happening, and the hair being cut. That's very symbolic. The long hair in males in many indigenous cultures is sacred.Track 1:[25:36] It's often cut only for a special reason. Maybe if a family member passes or something, the long hair is very closely tied to their identity a lot of time from what I've heard and read. So this was just very cruel behavior and humiliating. Yeah let's uh go to the second track on this record it is called swing set who's up first so swing set um.Track 1:[26:07] That's kind of the one where channey is like on the cusp of now and it's literally in the lyrics now not yet now not yet i didn't know this until researching like like everything in this i didn't realize that he was one of set i think i read nine kids that took off that day and he was one of three in in a group somewhere i read that there were nine children that left that same day and And they waited until one kid was being dragged literally back into the school to make their escape off the swing set. I mean, they were watching, like knowing this is going to happen. And the video is incredible to go with the music. They're like, you know, they make a distraction and twist one kid up in the swings. And I don't honestly remember if it was Chani or one of the others, but to make the teachers think, you know, we're playing, right? And we don't have this other plan. Yeah, the now not yet through the whole song is really cool. And by the way, the tune is awesome. Like that's what I was going to mention. Justin is the music is the emotion. Like it's that fleeting, like it's, it's very upbeat. I mean, that was one thing that was, that hit me when I first hit, heard it was like, no, I did not expect music like this.Track 1:[27:19] Right. In the context of, of, you know, the overall package now to me, and I know it isn't Kevin Hearn and I've talked before about how I enjoy the stuff that he does with bare naked and I know he's done a little bit with Gord and is on a track here. So I immediately thought it was Kevin Hearn because that's very much his type of and style.Track 1:[27:40] So I had made the assumption that was it and it isn't, but I love that it had that same feeling. And the music itself is almost chaotic. It's upbeat and chaotic, which is the emotions. I mean, come on guys, we've all had that moment where you're gonna do something stupid, and you know you're gonna do it and you know it's probably not the best thing to do but the emotions you have inside you know you could the goosebumps and uh and to me the the music really i think encapsulated that that feeling phenomenally and how crazy like that's the that's the springboard swing set that's that this is where the plan was gonna it's literal and metaphorical yeah that at first i guess longer versus the turning around around in my seat and the chains are tight over my head and until the tension is complete, right?Track 1:[28:32] Whoa. How cool of a double meaning. Honestly, that's one of Gord's best set of lines in anything really that he's written. Like, cause it's literally on a swing and they're twisting the kid around. And then also this is the fulcrum of my life, right? And here's the tension and there's no way out of it. It's go now, not now. And later on when, when he looks back and any, the image of it is his just, just seeing the swing twisting in the sun is great. It was great. The other thing I wanted to mention about this song, I love how there's the breath in the background. It's almost like that either excitement or even, you know, when you're running and you're breathing heavily. And there's kind of that breathy sound in the background, almost like background sort of vocals. And one thing in the art is that some of the frames are showing sort of like them praying in the school.Track 1:[29:22] And so various memories in between the swinging is what I was just looking at because I have the graphic novel next to me. But yeah, Greg, that's a great, right. So this, this like forced religion upon them. So these schools were funded by the government, but they were typically run by, by church groups. So, and if I read correctly that this was the Cecilia Jeffrey school, right. And this was run by a women's organization connected to a church. Is that right? I believe so. Yeah. Yeah. But all of the images are of men or so it seems. Yeah. And I believe that was one of the critiques I read online, which I really don't think It matters in what Gord was trying to communicate here. I mean, again, like I said at the start, this is all about the emotion and.Track 1:[30:06] Getting an idea across that is really not just about one kid it's just about the whole system and yeah yeah there when i i got the book before i saw the video i wanted to kind of do it in stages listen to the music first and then read the book and then do the video and the images of when channy's in bed and the i don't know what you want to call it the clergyman or the the teacher or the the schoolmarm or whoever it is is walking kind of through the bunk at night took on a whole different meaning for me later in this album yes um and i didn't realize what i didn't know until about three or four songs later it's creepy in this one when you're reading when you're reading the book and looking through it it's you know like all right man it's nighttime like leave me alone right yeah it looks more like an intimidation thing totally than what it turns out to be yeah.Track 2:[31:01] I I tend to agree with you, and let's see how it plays out in the next chapter of this story. Maybe my favorite song on the record. I don't have to do an MVP pick, so I can reveal it to you early, but Seven Matches. Kirk?Track 1:[31:18] I think it ended up just being a group of three that made it past a certain moment, and they went to a relative's house, or it could have been parents, and two of them, and then uh cheney was you know not part of that and so he needed to move on, and is given this jar with the seven matches and the song itself you know from a musical standpoint is is is very soothing and it's uh i love that style of of vocalization that that that Gord uses in the speak singing, I guess is a good way to describe it. It's so deceiving, right? Because it does make you feel, like when I listened to it the first couple of times, and even now, like it gives me a sense of warmth. It gives me a sense of security. And this mother said, here, these are your seven matches. And then the emphasis that's put on that.Track 1:[32:25] To me, it really broke down to like, this is your life. Your life is now in a jar and it's seven matches. And then with each phrase, it's six, it's five, it's four, and he has to use them or he freezes. So I'm, as we've mentioned the whole theme, this warm song that does give you comfort is heartbreaking, absolutely heartbreaking.Track 1:[33:00] Yeah this one is um because it starts out so hopeful right and it sounds like you can hear a spring in his step you know and he's got this chick of the matches and it's like a little rhythm going down the train tracks and you know he talks about how i know she didn't mean to hurt my feelings but that's what she like i know how to build a fire right like give me a break you know But then you're down to two matches, you know, and you're, uh-oh, like it's, it really gets heavy at the end. Yeah. I also wonder if that line you just mentioned is, it could be her saying, you know, you need to give yourself up and go back to the school. And I almost wondered if that was, was another meaning of that.Track 1:[33:45] Like she didn't, you know, she, she hurt my feelings. That's insightful. Yeah. It certainly could be. i i took it as the way that i did because he mentions the memory of her smile like right here you go buddy this will help you good luck yeah that's just my interpretation yeah and i think there are layers like like any song of.Track 1:[34:06] Gourd's and i just wanted to mention to the almost like childlike quality of these first few songs like in.Track 1:[34:14] The way that gourd's singing almost like a naivety to his voice and not only that you mentioned the the seven six five four that's like a a very common thing to do in children's music and so i wondered if that was intentional to a lot of the melodies in these first few songs are quite yeah just just like simple melodies that almost sound like you could picture a kid singing them yeah i didn't think of it but you're you're right wow i just want to mention that this is the song that i think i had i want to say familiarity because it was like three or four notes but the peter mansbridge interview with gourd yeah they they were kind of in the studio gordon and the guys and they played this song and it was just maybe one line and i don't remember but i remember the tune this was the one that stuck with me entering this this project i want to point out because again as i mentioned i had the graphic novel next to me on a music stand you know as points of reference but the heartbreaking frame from the middle of the page where the family very stoic the mom is again as you mentioned you know showing them how to use the match and you could see the despair in their face you can see the absolute despair because they know this is only going to end two ways he's going to get caught and go back or the eventuality of what happens, happens.Track 1:[35:38] But then the next photo, the smile, you know, the last smile, I mean, when you think about it, this is the last actual act of love.Track 1:[35:49] He experiences before he passes like the a real act of love from another human being and then the chick chick chick is he's shaking the matches and part of the song so that that's all i wanted to mention i i actually did think that um that little grin on his face not only was it feeling nice about what that family did for him but also like now i've got an ace in the hole like a little bit a little bit mischievous. Like I have a backup plan now. Like he's got, he's got, he's pulled one over on something, you know?Track 1:[40:10] The chorus in here, I will not be struck. I'm not going back. Visually, it ties into the shots of Chaney in school being taught English and struggling. A lot of survivors reported being hit when they were speaking their own language. And so they were forced to learn English and were forbidden to speak their own languages.Track 1:[40:35] And to this day, there are many, thankfully many, Indigenous languages, but often not a lot of people speaking them. So I think, you know, from what I've heard that, that it's definitely on the upswing and I know there's people around where I live teaching languages, you know, teaching traditional languages to kids and, um, and even in the schools. Yeah i i so struck i thought the word struck like you said is is super deep struck meaning literally hit by one of the teachers and i also struck like i will not be struck by emotion no by emotion and turning back and yes the match absolutely but also he's literally walking down train tracks i won't be struck by a train and he says i'm gonna put my ear against the rail and And what I can't hear, I can feel, which is again, what I can't hear. I can feel is a way to think about him struggling with the language and you see him squinting at the map. Like, I don't know what this means. And in the video at one point, they scramble the letters on the map because it's meaningless, you know? Yeah. And he throws the map in the fire. He's like, oh, I can't read it. So I'm going to just burn it. And it makes no difference to me. You know, if they didn't understand the language, they got hit. It. So if what I don't hear, I will feel. And I really love the, again, you go back to the father. I see my father's face warming his feet by the stove.Track 1:[42:05] We used to have each other. Now we only have ourselves. And there's that warmth like.Track 1:[42:12] In the in the visuals but also in the music um this song too has a very if you were to just hear this song without you know the context without thinking too much about the lyrics it's it's it starts off very melodic you've got just that that acoustic guitar and then the vocal melody is very very very um you know sweet and the drums come in and what i love about the drums is that you've got.Track 1:[42:40] This this rock beat the kick and and snare are just locked in so tight but then the hi-hat gives it a bit of chaos and there's just so much feeling in that in that hi-hat playing and i i'm thinking maybe they in the mix it might move around a little bit but it really the contrast between the tightness of the of the kick and snare and the and the hats really gives it, gives it a great feel um and then the bass comes in with this nice melodic line and then what what happens is the bass starts playing on the offbeats and it gives this sort of like ominous feel like something is, is coming. Right. And, and then also there's that guitar, the electric guitar is maybe my favorite part of the song. There's this, it actually, it's just sort of repeating the vocal melody, but there's this, some open strings in there and it's almost like a little bit out of tune or something or an effect that makes it just sound a bit uneasy.Track 2:[43:37] Yeah. I wouldn't have been able to explain that, but I get exactly what you're saying. Kirk, what do you think, buddy?Track 1:[43:45] I do love the overall usage, the hip as well, with the open tunings. That's something, as you know, Craig, playing in what you do and having to have a few guitars ready to go with open tuning, there is definitely an overall presence that it brings to the music. And if you don't mind, I'm going to jump into Sun, the next song. Song speaking of an ominous feeling and thought and they showed in the in in the graphic and in, obviously in in the the movie the cartoon the vision of his father and and then this song you know it's when I'm on your shoulder uh one of the in my research one of the things I found was a uh.Track 1:[44:30] I was a school in Canada that was the I'm assuming it was the teacher was playing the guitar and singing this and there was a interpretive dance going on to it and it was just extremely powerful extremely extremely powerful i i mean you guys know i lost my pops a year ago the memories and being a father and and the memories of that bond what what cheney's going through and as we you know are in this journey and and and not knowing what's going to come there's an you know i think I think a dark expectation, but you always hope that there's going to be something positive out of it. I think this song really, really sets up that whatever happens with this journey, you know, his family's there, his tribe's there, his dad's there. So I have a son from a previous relationship. He's, he'll be 18 this year.Track 1:[45:24] And I haven't talked to him in seven years, eight years, and not by my choice. That's just the way things are. This song hits me like a ton of bricks every single time I hear it. And I would like for him to hear it. Yeah. He's Chani and I'm, I'm dad and not quite the same thing, but it's real close. Yeah. Yeah. It's, it's a gorgeous song and it's.Track 1:[45:53] It's the most hopeful part of this album as as far as i'm concerned you know this is the driver for channy to to get home you know and he's got 600 kilometers ahead of him yeah there's dad that's that's the finish line yeah yeah i get you know feelings from from like there's many emotional spots on this album but this is definitely one that hits hard you know being a father and and a son and just um you know that message of you know i'll whatever happens i'll be with you and you know again the warmth of the of his father um the you know the fire is reminding him of his father the image and the warmth of his and also i think you know the use of the word dance you know like when you dance i'll be on your shoulder you know thinking of how important dance was or is in.Track 1:[46:47] Indigenous culture and you know again another thing that they wouldn't have been allowed to practice you know i think that there's another layer of this and i love the line at the end even as the world convulses and then at that moment there's this bass convulsion there's that big deep noise yep and you know don't stop wishing what you wish yeah just such a great message and i know that's that's a part that hits me pretty heavy and especially that last chorus when that high harmony comes in just so emotional and yeah really great song i i i'm thankful for this song you know with my with my experience it's i need reminders and this is a good one right yeah i really i really love the song a lot yeah so some secret pass secret path and if the last one you You know, if sun is the most hopeful, this is where it turns.Track 1:[47:46] Yes. Yeah. Right. And it's immediate, um, freezing rain and there's never been a colder rain than the one I'm in. And that is, you know, literally and symbolic, you know, it's, it is pouring on this kid and the snow is building up and it's, it's so nasty. And we, you know, I don't know if you get snow down in Chino, but we get snow. We do at our local mountains yeah where my mother-in-law lives in right when and in big bear and because i travel a lot i i get into a lot of snow so i've been into some below zero temperatures and i yeah i i that's why i live in southern california gentlemen yeah i know i know i like visiting the snow i don't like living in it yeah i know the ice pellets he's talking about And you go out to walk the dog and your feet come in soaked and you're only out there for two minutes. The dog's got to poop and you just, all right, do it. Come on. And you come in and you're cold and it sucks and it's to the skin, it's to the bone. And in this instance it's piled up so high that he can't even walk on the tracks they're sticking you know the snow and the ice pellets are sticking to the tracks so he can't tightrope them he can't he can't get his feet off of off of the wooden whatever they're called planks between the tracks.Track 1:[49:12] Because there's snow and ice built up on the tracks too so he is screwed every way possible.Track 1:[49:17] And there's no way out of it and this is the secret path like this is and this is what i have to do during the secret path the thought process right because he's he's essentially entering a delirium right all you have is your thoughts at this point and so the focus then becomes it's not a it's a windbreaker it's not a jacket it's a windbreaker where's my jean jacket And if you've ever worn a jean jacket before, you feel it and it provides warmth, but windbreakers don't provide warmth. They're what they are. And that delirium leads into those lines that are haunting, absolutely haunting as he's navigating all the elements that you had mentioned, Justin. And it's like you said this song just takes such a turn and then it takes a deeper turn and a deeper turn and a deeper term and and then it hits the chord and i'm sure you guys have heard it yep but that chord the first time i listened to it after the you know years ago when i just did a kind of a, I don't even know if I listened to the whole thing. I think I just kind of hit the first of each song, right? I didn't listen to the album, like listen to it. But this time when I listened to it, I heard that chord and that chord is death.Track 1:[50:46] That chord is now hope's gone. Now it's just whatever happens. He continues, of course, but that chord is the, there's no secret path. That's exactly it. That's the turning point right there is it's, it's hope is gone. And I know the exact, exact moment you mean. And I love that line too, that you mentioned about the, the icy rails that he can't even tightrope. You imagine him earlier in the day, maybe, you know, kind of like playing these childish games like like in the first song he mentions jumping from the left to the right and now it's like that loss of innocence right like he's yeah there's no way out now and the the jean jacket thing my take on this is that there's actually a famous uh you know story uh about a woman named phyllis webstad so she started something called orange shirt day have you heard of this down there yes yep or maybe i've seen it i have not okay yeah so september 30th for a number of years now has been in BC anyways has been the orange shirt day and so this woman Phyllis is from, around here she actually went to the school that would be closest to where I live and she you know was taken away to residential school and she was given or bought this this brand new orange shirt to take to school and when she got there you know they took it away from her and she never saw it again and she just couldn't understand as a you know young girl why they stole it from her and and so you know she talked about you know to this day the color orange reminds her of this and those feelings of of you know feeling worthless and so september 30th now in canada is a as a new statutory holiday uh as of a couple of years ago for national it's the national day of um national day for truth and reconciliation it's called and um yeah so so that That is what it reminded me of this, you know, he is, his jean jacket's taken away and, you know, they give him this windbreaker that it doesn't even do what it's supposed to do. You know, they're, they're liars, right? Like they, they call this a wind, windbreaker. It doesn't do what they said it would do. There's one part in one of the choruses. I know what you're going to say. Where he says it's, and then they call it a windbreaker. and like gourd is and i don't know if that's intentional or not but it feels like channy's like incredible it's like what what is this is it a windbreaker or not like why why are you selling this if it's not because channy had uh from what i understand a pretty good understanding of wordplay whether he could read or not in english he picked up on um double meanings of words or a twist of phrase or or something like this that you know could mean a couple of different things and and be funny even well this is literally this jacket is not breaking the wind from me right like yeah why.Track 1:[58:27] Yeah. This is, this is a tough song. Um, it also happens to be a great song and again, take away the meaning and it's a very just rock and song. Yeah. I love the way you've got that really quiet intro and then it just hits you over the top of the head with that don't and really just smacks you in the face. And it, it is so powerful. I mentioned I I'm, I'm a teacher. And when, when I play this for the first time and I crank the speaker up to see, you know, the the shock yeah yeah so so this you know very obviously a reference to abuse to you know sexual abuse physical abuse i spent a little bit of time in the last few weeks going through the truth and reconciliation document which is basically the documented truth of survivors and their families and and anyone who is affected by by residential schools and the university of mantoba keeps these uh these records and they're they're free to look at you know if you too many many stories to to count it's just horrifying and yeah really i think the part that gets me in this song is it's not even in the lyric um booklet i don't think but what but the little whispers how how yes yeah that so so powerful you know how how yeah when i heard the song first.Track 1:[59:41] Before i saw the illustrations and before i saw the video i i thought that this was Cheney saying, don't let this change who you are, not knowing that it was about sexual abuse, not even considering that that was a thing. And I thought that this was, don't let their, you know, it's in the law to kill the Indian, right? That's the phrasing that's in the rules or the laws or whatever the credo was that was written up in the 1800s when this started, started kill the Indian in the child and don't don't let them do this to you don't let them take your your culture away from you your your origin from you I had a very similar take and belief on it Justin as an end you described right after that you you have the you know I heard them in the dark heard the things they do I heard the heavy whispers you know.Track 1:[1:00:39] Whisper just don't let them touch you and that's that's about you that's the part in the video where i was like oh now i get it yeah they make it yeah yeah quite obvious at that point like yeah if you haven't gotten it by that point there there's a frame there that yeah it's it's heartbreaking it's it's same thing as i mentioned earlier like i had i had an understanding of what the the lyrics meant or the songs were and then i got the graphic novel and i i went through it and And I'd stop, I literally had to close it and walk away for a bit and gather myself and just, you know, you know how something horrible is going on and you're, you go, how can it be any worse? And then the worst reveals itself. Yeah. In the book, the last frames, um, before the, the, the next song are a hand in the dark. work. And then the very last frame is a hand in the sky over literally and figuratively over Chaney's head as he walks down the tracks. And it's like, this is never going to go away. It's something he would have if he lived to 90 years old, it's still there.Track 1:[1:01:49] Well, and you know, we talked about how secret path was that transition, right? And there was smiles and there was glimmers of hope. And then when it turns, when that desperation hits in there's no secret path like all that that he had been suppressing that you know that's.Track 1:[1:02:09] Victims of abuse that's a survival technique is to just suppress it and it it released it and so now all the dark darknesses is just so prevalent and heartbreaking yeah.Track 2:[1:02:27] It's hard to hold my tongue and, this stuff makes me angry and rightly so, but we're going to turn the page right now and we're going to go to the next track which is the 8th track on the record Haunt Them, Haunt Them, Haunt Them, justin i.Track 1:[1:02:55] Think i'm in despair okay then you can end the song right there like that's it i don't know if i if i if i have cried actively but this is the one that i was like okay all right um i'm ready for this to be over with because i don't know if i can handle it and um the raven and, can't wait to eat your eyes you know like god that raven is just like sitting on the branch licking his lips like let's go let's i i've got a way out for you man and it's going to be through my stomach you know because you're going to die and and i can't wait you're my next meal and.Track 1:[1:03:32] You know and he's got a channy has to try and keep walking and keep breathing and you know the theme throughout the thing is is i'm i'm just going to close my eyes i'm just going to catch my breath i'm gonna get up and keep going and he's at the point where he knows if i if i try that.Track 1:[1:03:51] That i'm not getting up my pale last days and my all my memories are just memories of memories like he can't and even he can't he can't think of being there with his father or his family at home he can only think of laying in bed at the school thinking about his father at home like he's he's happy he's out of body he's he's um delirious he is beyond rational thinking i think and the drum beat is you know we've all been in a situation where we're truly exhausted and your heart just feels like it's you know 20 times bigger than it is and it's your brain the blood flow the pumping is is in your head and that that is such a prevalent theme throughout this and i think it really helps to hit home that desperation and again yeah the uh being being followed stalked by the raven you know death forgive me because again i don't know this and i don't want to sound like i do but if i understand it correctly ravens are sort of important in indigenous culture sort of the the symbol of death is that am i understanding this correctly or or that they represent maybe the darkening of times or something. I would imagine it would be probably different for, for different areas of the.Track 1:[1:05:13] You know entry but um yeah but yeah definitely i think in this story you know definitely that's, part of what the raven character is there for yeah um another thing to touch on in this song is is this is really about the you know the stripping of culture and the the scenes with with the halloween like i just imagine you know these kids who are being told that that they're you know uncivilized you know this is you know their their words and then they're teaching them about this you know crazy holiday about ghosts and ghouls and it just imagine how nuts that must have seemed to them and so you know being forced to to you know we you know many schools even to this day you know we do things around christmas and thanksgiving and all these you know, Easter, all these, um, you know, Christian holidays. And, you know, thankfully now things are more inclusive when we try to recognize many holidays, you know, in these parts, just that, yeah. I can't necessarily say the same around here.Track 1:[1:06:19] Yes. Um, anyways, I, I kind of lost my train of thought, but, but I know. Yeah. The, and even the, I like the, the, the masks that they show in the, um, in the video that, you know, the paper mask, paper bag mask and and the eyes are cut out and then later on you of course you've got the raven holding the eyes and and the other thing i think about this song is that this is like revenge this is revenge this is him wanting revenge and i think it's shortly i don't think it's a feeling that goes through the whole song because at the very end there's that twist where it's i want to go back not to haunt them yes so the whole song it's like i want to go back and haunt them you know i want revenge you know and you have to imagine these are the some of the emotions you might go through in this in this experience like anger and wanting to get back at them and then at the end no i just want to go back and you know not that he wants to go back to school and be treated the way he was but at some point he must have had that feeling like this was a mistake i want to go back not to haunt them just i want to go back you know one thing that hit me with the graphic novel and and and the uh the movie cartoon um the when they take the picture.Track 1:[1:07:28] And um i'm sure you guys have heard the you know the the tale of of of being fearful of a camera right the camera takes your soul and that was one thing that hit me when i saw it even though i know it's in more in modern times and and um there would be exposure to it but um.Track 1:[1:07:50] Further indignities and reasoning for haunting right that they're making us put these masks on but then they're still taking that picture and taking taking the soul was a and and probably meaning and probably sending that picture to a newspaper saying look how much fun these kids are having yes yeah and being exploited at the same time even further moving into the only place to be you obviously you can be hit by the emotion as I read through the lyrics and as I looked at the images yeah and I think this is a song of acceptance regardless of trade or true not true we do know that he was taken from his family and we do know that it was hundreds of miles away and we do know that eventually he perished and and and obviously went through horrendous things and is now made that decision and moved and to try and get back home and has gone through what we've discussed. And this is the only place to be, right? Because I think as we discussed in Secret Path.Track 1:[1:08:57] I think there's that in the song Secret Path, that turn and I don't believe that he has necessarily hoped to physically be back with his family, but I think he's now realizing that he's going to be with his family as he moves on and uh he's out he's away from from that which caused this horrific change in in his life from a you know 12 year old boy or however old when he was first taken and from a loving family and sisters and and and and to to the horrors that were experienced and now Now, obviously, physical survival is not likely, and this is the only place to be.Track 1:[1:09:42] And I was thankful, like Justin mentioned, after don't let this touch you and haunt them and like really wondering, wow, how can we finish this? I did feel a sense of, okay, I'm going to give you a little bit of a pillow to fall down on. Um before we finish this out which you know when we talk about the last song um you know i spoken with you guys earlier before we started recording about how impactful that song is but the only place to be was i think the right uh transition into where we've come from into where we're going, yeah and and the word acceptance is exactly what i what i think for the song it's that acceptance of, of death and um and even in the visuals you have a life you know almost like his life flashing before him it's it's all you know and as an effective sort of conclusion to the story too you've got all these scenes that we've seen in the book just flashing by and a lot of the lyrics are almost like him being at one with nature which we know of course is a huge part of indigenous culture is just that being at one with the earth and respect for the environment with respect for, you know animals and everything being equal and i think that's what what this song is is is doing yeah.Track 2:[1:11:03] Yeah what do you think justin.Track 1:[1:11:06] Well and i i found a lot of peace in this song and comfort for my own selfish self but i think that maybe that's what gourd is trying to convey here too and and i am for the wolf and the raven will be first to get my eyes and i'm going to feed these animals and take my body that's fine and I'll be somewhere else and I think he's yeah acceptance is the right word this this song is definitely a cooling of temperatures though like it's okay you can breathe and we know where this is headed and the worst part of it is over like he's he's ready to go here's the door.Track 2:[1:15:12] Here, here, and here. How would you best describe this one, Craig?Track 1:[1:15:20] Pure emotion. Like this song, like with so few words. There are nine words in the song. Yeah. Gorgeous takes you. Yeah. Just like eases out of it. And it's just heartbreaking and beautiful.Track 1:[1:15:37] And the, um, yeah, I should mention the piano too. So, so this is one of the, the tracks that Kevin drew helped to help to write his piano work is, is just, yeah, it's, it's just a perfect closer, like a little epilogue and yeah, lyrically, this one's tough. This one's tough to again in so few words it's like you know what gets me is that i think it's the last line when he says you sign you sign you know it's like you know the death certificate or yeah it's just yeah kirk yeah i know you said this one really affected you what what are your thoughts i i um yeah we're jumble it's it's it's everything it's um you know as a as a lover of music as a creator of music as a recreator of music in in all forms it's hard to write it's it's hard to write poetry it's hard to write a novel it's hard to write a sentence and you want to write everything you want you feel like you need to have this descriptive word for every single thought and emotion right just think about like if you're in social media like you you want to you're put you're posting a picture or story and you want the world to know why you're doing it right so you write this three paragraph of well just show the effing picture and.Track 1:[1:17:04] Just let it be and and to me it was like gourd crack the the age old this is all you need this is it we don't need to say anything other than these nine words yeah yeah and earlier in the album you know words are birds words are it's you know it's speaking to that power of words and And also, there's another line in the book, I forget which song it is, but when there isn't a next sentence, track four. Yeah, it's almost like sometimes there aren't words, right? Like, the emotion is just there. Yeah this one's a this one is you know the you knew it was coming from the first note of the first song right you know the story before you press play and you finally get there and it hurts worse than you would imagine it would yep this is 140 characters he got it all in one tweet you know and it and it's destroys you it absolutely because you don't need any more yeah.Track 2:[1:18:13] No uh I really like that you can fit that in one tweet uh it's concise it's a call to action and um it wraps up a really fucking powerful and phenomenal record craig early on said this might be his favorite work by gourd downey and that includes all the tragically hit material so fellas it's going to be tough to do this next part but it is tradition in these parts so what do you think about naming your mvp tracks.Track 1:[1:18:51] I'll i'll take a i think to grab on to this this topic quickly um you know i think it's difficult to not choose here here and here as an mvp but i can almost say a co-mvp for me is sun those two um obviously embody so much and and have impacted us and uh so i'll i'll have to stick with here here and here but uh sun is is uh definitely right there for me um.Track 1:[1:19:24] Yeah, it's a tough one. I love this album. Don't let this touch you. I know that the subject matter is something I wish it didn't have to be written, but at the same time, you know, he does it in such an elegant way. It's it's for touching on a topic like this he just it makes you feel so much and and i think the main reason i'm picking it to that is actually not to do with the lyrics it's that that transition i mentioned you have the theremin and then everything changes and it just settles and relaxes and the bass line is just i think that's my musical highlight of the album that that little descending bass line yeah the drums and i love how the drums drop out for a moment and they come back in and it's beautiful that that that whole section is just it makes makes it for me justin what was your your favorite yeah it's also don't let this touch you and on my first run through it was the song that got my attention just musically like only as a rock and roll fan this is a great song long it's just you know musically really really cool and then my experience with um the video.Track 1:[1:20:41] Which totally crushed me and changed everything that I thought I knew about this album and about the story and that's that's the moment for me that that I was like okay I need to read more I need I need to really understand this and um but at the same time I told the whole story too I didn't need don't understand anymore but it was the the push that i was like okay this is worse than what we thought and it was already bad but yeah that's the one yep this has been i'm breaking up all right we've all we've all had our moments today and i think that's a good thing on on several levels right because it is of uh uh it is of a a topic in nature that that should be heartbreaking to anybody and everybody that that comes across it but you know let's hope that it does bring to a sense of hope because we do need to face our our fear and the darkness and that's the best way to to to combat it and and hopefully to make change so i know for me even with the heaviness of the subject again it's uh you know gord has has raised the bar again and in so many ways and on so many levels because you know gourd's message was we're not a canada until we get this figured out and it's going to take 100 years well yeah yeah guess what yeah.Track 2:[1:22:03] Uh then you know no amount of time will fill the void that has been created at the tremendous loss of life and culture, at the hands of people who should have frankly known better. Anything else you guys want to say before we pack up this gear?Track 1:[1:22:29] I just will continue to say how thankful I am to be on this journey with you. And I'm glad we were able to share this today. And we hope that it's insightful for others and that it'll inspire you as well to do your own research and do your own. Thank you all. Yeah, thank you. That's right.Track 2:[1:22:48] Absolutely. Well, that's what we've got for you this week with Gord's fifth record, The Spellbinding Secret Path. Highly recommend getting this record, experiencing the whole multimedia venture. You heard the guys say how it changed their look on on several songs on the record, so it's well worth it. We also want to do a viewing party of the live CBC concert, so stay tuned for that, and that's about it. So on behalf of Craig, Justin, and Kirk, this is JD saying, pick up your shit.

Dinosaur Jr. rose from the ashes of a teenage hardcore band looking to make some “Ear Bleeding Country.” They went on to become one of the most influential and interesting alternative rock bands of the 80's and 90's. The band went from underground to indie to major label to MTV, shedding a few original members along the way, and eventually broke up before reforming the og line-up in the mid 2000's to put out even more gorgeous records. Singer, songwriter, and Broken Social Scene member Kevin Drew joins us to navigate the long and storied path of Dinosaur Jr.  Follow Kevin Drew on instagram @kevinselection Listen to songs we detail in the episode HERE  Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Kevin Drew Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Audio Editor: Adrian Bridges Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Bethany Cosentino Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The chief prosecutor at the International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for top leaders of Hamas and Israel, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Democratic-led Senate will hold a second vote on bipartisan border legislation that failed to pass earlier this year. And Scarlett Johansson says the maker of ChatGPT copied her voice for its new AI personal assistant. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Lauren Migaki, Kelsey Snell, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Lights, camera, ACTION! It's time to talk movies once again and we had a pretty good discussion about these two films. Drew's choice this week is Guy Ritchie's 2019 action/crime movie, The Gentlemen. With an ensemble cast including Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Colin Farrell and more, it's a pretty fun time. Kevin's pick is the 2008 Darren Aronofsky sports/drama film, The Wrestler starring Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei and more. It's a tragic, heavy story which is the type of thing Kevin is into. Big thanks to the listeners, we hope you enjoy this one and have a great week! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/distortedminds/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/distortedminds/support

The Biden administration is weighing how hard to push back on Israel's conduct of its war against Hamas. Stormy Daniels testifies in Donald Trump's New York trial about an affair that the then-presidential candidate is accused of covering up in 2016. And TikTok wants a federal court to throw out Congress's new "sell-or-be-banned" law.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Vincent Ni, Dana Farrington, Kevin Drew, Lisa Thomson, Alice Woelfle and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Hannah Gluvna. And our technical director is Stacey Abbott.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week's Talkhouse Podcast came together in a fun way, when a new-ish artist referenced the work of a more established band in a song, and the head of a legendary indie label thought they should meet. That sounds complicated, but don't worry I'll explain. Our guests are Claire Rousay and Kevin Drew. Kevin Drew is best known as one of the founders of Broken Social Scene, the influential Canadian band slash collective that's been around for 25 years now. The band has amassed an incredible catalog that broke out with 2002's unstoppable You Forgot It In People but all of its records reward a deep dive—as does the solo work that Drew has also released over the years. Last year he released a moving record about loss—among other things—called Aging, and as you'll hear in this conversation, he hopes to reignite Broken Social Scene for one more run that includes some of the collective's members that have gone on to big careers outside the band, like Leslie Feist and Emily Haines. I personally would love to see it. I imagine the other half of today's conversation, Claire Rousay, would as well. The impetus for this conversation is her song “Lover's Spit Plays in the Background.” In case you're not familiar with the aforementioned Broken Social Scene album, You Forgot It In People, it features a song called “Lover's Spit.” Rousay's song is from her fantastic new album Sentiment, just out on Thrill Jockey Records, on which she leans more into song structure than on past releases, which have been tagged “emo ambient.” Rousay uses found sounds, hazy atmospherics, and Auto-Tune to tell sometimes crushingly depressing stories in a way that somehow turns out gorgeous. Check out “Lover's Spit Plays in the Background” right here. This conversation ended up happening because Thrill Jockey's Bettina Richards reached out to Drew to let him know about the nod on Rousay's song, and the rest is history: As you'll hear, they connected pretty quickly, and they chat about blackout curtains, influential record labels, the death of Kevin's mom, and what Drew dubs Claire's “beautiful, vulnerable, shadowy womb/sleeping bag of a record.” Enjoy. 0:00 - Intro 2:29 - Start of the chat 4:49 - On Claire's unusual introduction to Broken Social Scene's music 9:24 - On music as a lifesaver 13:47 - On the future of Broken Social Scene 17:35 - On being jealous of your peers 21:42 - On blackout curtains 31:27 - On signing to Thrill Jockey 36:46 - On negativity and career expectations Thanks for listening to the Talkhouse Podcast, and thanks to Claire Rousay and Kevin Drew for chatting. If you liked what you heard, please follow Talkhouse on your favorite podcasting platform, and check out all the goodness at Talkhouse.com. This episode was produced by Myron Kaplan, and the Talkhouse theme is composed and performed by the Range. See you next time!

New York City police used force overnight to zip-tie the hands of dozens of Columbia University student protesters and haul them away in buses, clearing the encampment two weeks after tents first popped up. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is back in Israel to pressing for more aid to Palestinians in Gaza — and a hostage deal. And Florida's six-week abortion ban takes effect today — with exceptions only in rare circumstances.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Vincent Ni, Acacia Squires, Lisa Thomson and Ben Adler. It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lilly Quiroz. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Drew is back from his hiatus from the show and it's time once again to talk movies! Kevin's pick is the classic Disney movie The Aristocats from 1970. It's one that we both grew up loving and was a joy to revisit. Drew's choice is one that we both were unfamiliar with from 1985, the sci-fi/comedy film, Brazil starring Jonathan Pryce, Robert DeNiro and more. We appreciate you guys who still tune in, thanks a lot and have a great week! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/distortedminds/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/distortedminds/support

It's a brand-new movie talk episode and this one is a doosy. Kevin's pick this week is Into the Wild from director Sean Penn. It's a pretty uplifting and inspiring film starring Emile Hirsch, Kristen Stewart, Catherine Keener and more. Drew's choice on the other hand, is the more dark, unsettling and ominous film, The Killing of a Sacred Deer. From director Yorgos Lanthimos, this movie stars Colin Ferrell, Barry Keoghan and Nicole Kidman. So, they're pretty opposite films in a cool and interesting way. Also, Drew will be taking a hiatus from the show but he assures us that he will be back before too long. But we pick our next movies at the end of this episode anyway for when he returns. Much appreciation to our listeners, we love you and have a good week! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/distortedminds/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/distortedminds/support

NPR has confirmed Nikki Haley is due to suspend her presidential campaign after a big win on Super Tuesday for Donald Trump. Why a prominent California Democratic Senate candidate spent millions of dollars to boost a Republican opponent. And, how a cyberattack on an obscure but critical U.S. health care company has disrupted our entire system.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Up First was edited Dana Farrington, Kevin Drew, Andrew Sussman and Ben Adler. It was produced by Julie Depenbrock, Claire Murashima, Ben Abrams and Kaity Kline. We get engineering support from Josephine Nyounai, and our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The republican primaries begin today with the Iowa caucuses. What Israel's war against Hamas looks like in Gaza after a 100-days of retaliation. And after his inauguration was in doubt, Guatemala's new president is sworn in. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Ben Swasey, Mark Katkov, Kevin Drew, Reena Advani and Mohamad ElBardicy It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Nina Kravinsky. We get engineering support from Stacey Abbott. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.

A landmark court ruling in Israel has delivered a blow to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing government while it wages war in Gaza. And state legislatures are planning to tackle issues this year that federal lawmakers have been slow to take on. Plus, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency may soon set limits on several so-called forever chemicals in drinking water. Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter. Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Ally Schweitzer, and Susanna Capelouto . It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Lindsay Totty. Engineering support comes from Stacey Abbott and our technical director is Carleigh Strange.

Kevin Drew stops by the program to talk about the first records he bought, which were in some order: Beastie Boys, Madonna, Cowboy Junkies, and the Jesus and Mary Chain, making him the Doogie Howser of music appreciation. We also discuss his gorgeous new solo record “Aging,” and why authenticity is the most attractive quality, all on another episode of '24 Question Party People'. Host: Yasi Salek Guest: Kevin Drew Producer: Jesse Miller-Gordon Associate Producer: Chris Sutton Additional Production Supervision: Justin Sayles Theme Song: Hether Fortune Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin Drew is a founding member of one of our favorite bands, Broken Social Scene. His new solo record, Aging, is out now on Arts & Crafts. We chat about our Thanksgiving plans, "Apple Head," gender revealing, how much longer until holidays, in general, are over, he listens to podcasts to fall asleep, removing yourself from situations where a reaction is necessary, he tries to convince us to like Beastie Boys, early BSS days in New York, a deep dive into Canada's "The Tragically Hip," the demise of art, Andre 3000's ambient album was needed, his new record is extremely personal and was never planned to be released, the recent loss of his mother, thunder and lighting, and he wrote a song for us, what a guy. instagram.com/brokensocialscene twitter.com/donetodeath twitter.com/themjeans  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Originally, Kevin Drew set out to put together some songs, maybe even an album, of children's music, featuring songs about stuff like not being afraid of the dark. As he worked on the songs, however, he found that they pointed to some heavier issues, including love, loss, and the deterioration of his mother's body and mind. In this interview - and it is an interview despite Kevin wondering if it's actually a therapy session - we explore mental health, music, and why Kevin had to do this show once he heard it was called Depresh Mode.Thank you to all our listeners who support the show as monthly members of Maximum Fun.Check out our I'm Glad You're Here and Depresh Mode merchandise at the brand new merch website MaxFunStore.com!Hey, remember, you're part of Depresh Mode and we want to hear what you want to hear about. What guests and issues would you like to have covered in a future episode? Write us at depreshmode@maximumfun.org.Help is available right away.The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 or 1-800-273-8255, 1-800-273-TALKCrisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.International suicide hotline numbers available here: https://www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlinesThe Depresh Mode newsletter is available twice a week. Subscribe for free and stay up to date on the show and mental health issues. https://johnmoe.substack.com/John's acclaimed memoir, The Hilarious World of Depression, is now available in paperback. https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250209566/thehilariousworldofdepressionFind the show on X @depreshpod and Instagram @depreshpod.John is on X @johnmoe.

Kevin Drew, a member of the Broken Social Scene, talks about his new solo album, Aging.

Broken Social Scene's co-founder Kevin Drew has just released his third solo record, “Aging” – a project all about love, loss and grief. Kevin joins Tom Power to reflect on his early days in Toronto, how he looks back on the success of Broken Social Scene, and what inspired him to dedicate an entire record to aging.

Mifepristone remains accessible, for now, after an appeals court ruling Wednesday. Recovery from Maui's wildfires continues. Elections in Guatemala have broad implications for corruption and crime.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Larry Kaplow, Ally Schweitzer, Diane Webber, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Mansee Khurana, Claire Murashima, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Gluvna.

Why Republicans seem unbothered by Trump's indictments. Coup leaders in Niger tighten their grip. NPR obtains confidential reports describing "barbaric" treatment within ICE detention centers.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Barrie Hardymon, Ally Schweitzer, Michael Sullivan, Ben Swayse, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Mansee Khurana, Claire Murashima, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Hannah Gluvna.

A Georgia grand jury indicts Donald Trump. Recovery continues in Lahaina after deadly Maui wildfires. A federal court hears allegations of "harmful conditions" for juveniles jailed in Louisiana.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Susanna Capelouto, Kevin Drew, Ally Schweitzer, Benjamin Swasey, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Mansee Khurana, Claire Murashima, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.

Recovery continues in Maui after America's deadliest fire in more than 100 years. Georgia prosecutors to present evidence in election interference case. A federal court reviews Alabama's new congressional map.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Krishnadev Calamur, Kevin Drew, Ally Schweitzer, Ben Swayse, and Allison Woelfle. It was produced by Mansee Khurana, Claire Murashima, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.

Mass evacuations continue after deadly Maui wildfires. The Supreme Court agrees to review a controversial bankruptcy case involving Purdue Pharma. Wary of Belarus, Poland to send troops to its border.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Amra Pasic, Denice Rios, Ally Schweitzer, and Michael Sullivan. It was produced by Mansee Khurana, Kaity Kline, Claire Murashima, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Stacey Abbott.

Deadly wildfires tear across two islands in Hawai'i. The latest inflation report is expected to show rising prices. Clinical trials suggest weight loss drug Wegovy reduces heart attack risks.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Kevin Drew, Rafael Nam, Ally Schweitzer, Alice Woelfle, and Diane Weber. It was produced by Mansee Khurana, Kaity Kline, Claire Murashima, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Stacey Abbott.

A hospital team works around the clock while Israel pursues militants in a West Bank refugee camp. As Ukraine presses its counteroffensive, Russia says it repelled a drone attack on a big Moscow airport. And a Chicago suburb remembers the victims of a mass shooting at a July Fourth parade one year ago.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Up First is produced by Nina Kravinsky, Shelby Hawkins, Taylor Haney and Julie Depenbrock. Our editors are Michael Sullivan, Kevin Drew, Cheryl Corley, Alice Woelfle and Jan Johnson. Our technical director is Zac Coleman with engineering support from Stacey Abbott.