Sit And Spin - with Joe

07/12/2023

SPIN OF THE DAY - Sticking in the South, and Atlanta, with today’s spin. MYSTERY ROAD is the third studio album from Drivin’ N’ Cryin’, released back in 1989. The group were formed in 1985, originally as a trio consisting of bandleader Kevn Kinney on lead vocals and guitar, Tim Neilsen on bass and Paul Lenz on drums.

Drivin’ N’ Cryin’ released their debut album, SCARRED BUT SMARTER in 1986, after which Lenz left the band and was replaced by Jeff Sullivan, who had previously played in an early version of The Black Crowes. Also joining the band at this time was second guitarist Buren Fowler, with the expanded foursome putting out their second album, WHISPER TAMES THE LION in 1998. While I was aware of those records, I never really checked them out, and it would be this album that served as my true introduction to the band. After seeing the video for the song “Honeysuckle Blue on MTV’s 120 Minutes, I went out and bought the album the next day.

Mixing a kaleidoscope of styles, MYSTERY ROAD has songs that shift between Hard Rock (“Toy Never Played With”, “You Don’t Know Me”, “Malfunction Junction”), Country (“Ain’t It Strange”, “Peacemaker”), Folk (“With The People”) and Punk (“Syllables”) as well as ones that contain elements of all those sounds. It’s something that made the band unique, although they would streamline things for their next album, FLY ME COURAGEOUS, which would be the one that would break them to the masses. This record remains my favorite from them, though, and features one of the band’s signature songs in the barroom sing-along “Straight To Hell”.

This is the 2017 re-release and expanded pressing of the album, which adds a whole second disc of previous unreleased demos.

06/12/2023

Beyond the Ordinary: A Comprehensive Breakdown of Ethereal Soundscapes and Post-Rock Innovations

06/12/2023

Manchester is known for all kinds of legendary bands emerging from the area. The Smiths, New Order, The Stone Roses, Oasis, Buzzcocks and tons more. The best of the 2000s has to be Doves. Beginning as the dance group Sub Sub, Doves went on to be one of the biggest and best bands the UK has brought t...

05/12/2023

R.I.P. to the legendary Denny Laine.

Denny Laine, a member of Moody Blues and Wings, died at age 79 in December 2023.

05/12/2023

05/12/2023

SPIN OF THE DAY - I don’t often buy “hits” compilations from bands, preferring to have the actual albums their songs are made up of instead. Sometimes, though, they’re still necessary to have. Usually it’s because there are unreleased or new songs that are only available on them, or they may contain a song or two that were not on the regular albums. They can also just provide a nice, concise overview listen. SEVEN YEAR ITCH: GREATEST HITS, 1994–2001 from Collective Soul is just such an album where all of those things apply.

Hailing from Georgia, Collective Soul was put together by singer/songwriter/guitarist Ed Roland in 1992, as a means of getting his songs sold to a publishing company, rather than forming a band. The debut album, HINTS ALLEGATIONS AND THINGS LEFT UNSAID was recorded primarily by Roland as a demo, with additional music contributions from some of his friends. Released independently in 1993, it caught the attention of Atlantic Records, who signed Ed and re-released the album nationally in 1994. Now, though, he needed to put together an actual band to back it, so he enlisted some of those folks who had helped him earlier - his brother Dean on rhythm guitar, Ross Childress on lead guitar, Will Turpin on bass and Shane Evans on drums.

Buoyed by the debut single “Shine”, Collective Soul would go on to enjoy major success, especially in the time period this compilation covers. Ed Roland’s gift for knowing his way around writing a solid hook and catchy tunes would lead to a string of further hit singles and multi-platinum albums that would follow. Most of those, are contained here, along with the previously aforementioned new songs in “Next Homecoming” and “Energy”, plus “She Said”, which had only appeared prior on the SCREAM 2 soundtrack, and as a hidden bonus song on the group’s 1999 album, DOSAGE. With neither the latter record or 2000’s BLENDER being released on vinyl yet, that additionally made picking this comp up essential to hear some of the the songs from it on the format.

One of several different exclusives SEVEN YEAR ITCH: GREATEST HITS, 1994–2001 is currently being pressed on, this is the Target version that comes on fiery Yellow & Red “Solar Flare” colored vinyl.

05/12/2023

This week we look back to a time when the music industry was, mostly, run through a handful of record labels. With big money to be made, record companies such as Capitol, Epic, Columbia, and Atlantic wielded a lot of power. Buyouts were happening such as in the case of Polygram acquiring Casablanca Records which would result in a very in-flux KISS winding up on Mercury Records. Smaller labels, while limited financially, were successful at times due to scouting new talent and breaking it. This circumstance would lead labels such as Elektra, Metal Blade, and Megaforce to be on the ground floor of some legendary careers and genres.

In this discussion, we discuss all of these record labels, many of the notable artists that inhabited their rosters, how they stacked up in the rock world, and much more. The era we're focusing on this time is 1980-1984.

Was the rule and oversight of the early 80's music industry a good thing? Is today's wide open musical climate a better thing for artists? Let us know what YOU think in the comments!

We hope you enjoy Label Wars (1980-1984) and SHARE with a friend.

Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcasts family.

Listen NOW at https://www.decibelgeek.com/label-wars-1980-1984-ep555/

04/12/2023

This week we welcome back our friend Kevin Armstrong to discuss his new memoir, Absolute Beginner. This wonderful book details how his unique career took flight, from forming great bands that never go anywhere, to joining forces with David Bowie and performing with him at Live Aid, and rocking along...

03/12/2023

Saddened to hear of the passing of Myles Goldwyn, former singer/guitarist of April Wine. R.I.P. sir.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/myles-goodwyn-dead-at-75-1.7047852?fbclid=IwAR3tSkRa42Dd2l5R4HLnojsqehye_Echg3vmRDlrLLYHl7gQ0n804bA1t6I_aem_Aa0HLmrE4cW5FcOAOpBVUmKA6MC3XLceOZpmKK1VgDQF80_82EwiUGKkcaccy8gBmcQ

Nova Scotia musician Myles Goodwyn, who stepped down earlier this year as the singer of April Wine, died Sunday. The 75-year-old's death was confirmed by his publicist, Eric Alper. The cause of death is unclear.

03/12/2023

Kiss announced they would continue as a virtual band following their final concert in December 2023.

01/12/2023

https://rockandorrollpodcast.blogspot.com/2023/12/old-skull-tragic-tale-of-young-punks.html

01/12/2023

01/12/2023

With this week marking the end of KISS as a touring entity, we thought we'd serve up a Torpedo Dudes 4 All! This is Decibel Geek's KISS-exclusive podcast and there's plenty to discuss!

KISS recently had to cancel shows in Ottawa, Toronto, and Knoxville due to Paul Stanley contracting the flu. The band got back on track for Indianapolis and is moving forward with the final dates. Between the Ottawa and Toronto cancellations a tragic car accident/explosion made news as a possible terror attack. How does this (potentially) relate to KISS? Listen to find out.

As the band prepares for this weekend's final shows at Madison Square Garden, we discuss our thoughts on the current lineup, how we got to our opinions, and the multiple KISS-themed doings in NYC this week. Activities discussed include the NYC KISS takeover and, of course, the shows themselves.

It was confirmed recently that no ex-members, including Bruce Kulick, will be guesting at the shows. Will there be any surprises or shakeups for these landmark shows? We give our predictions.
Speaking of ex-members, Ace Frehley released the title track to his upcoming album '10,000 Volts' which is due next February. We give our reactions to the new single, our hopes for the album, and more.

We hope you enjoy Torpedo Dudes 4 All and consider joining us on Patreon as a DBG VIP!

Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcasts family.

Listen NOW at https://www.decibelgeek.com/the-end-of-kiss-ep554/

30/11/2023

NEW EPISODE ALERT! Our first Bowling For Soup
episode with Troy from Troy Millette & the Fire Below.

Call me skeptical that I'd like this album (I only knew "1985") but the album is fun. So is this episode.

Co-host Wayne says I'd have a blast at a Bowling for Soup show. Who can hook us up with tickets for the Orlando show?

29/11/2023

The real story of Sly & the Family Stone needs to be told. Sly himself recently released a reportedly underwhelming memoir and there have been others over the years, but the true story of this revolutionary group is eroding too quickly. This week we welcome their legendary drummer (and Rock and....

28/11/2023

Whoops.

In all the commotion of having family in town for Thanksgiving, I didn't promote last week's episode.

Based on download numbers, I guess I didn't need to promote it. 👊

If you want to hear some really bad takes on "Workbook" from The Hustle Podcast this is your episode. Big shoutout to Patreon Revisitor Seth Gill for picking this album. Who's listened to the episode? Are you Team Jon or Team Seth?

28/11/2023

The sequel will surely go to 11.

24/11/2023

GREG STRYKER - EDGE OF NIGHT PRESENT HISTORY - OPEN YOUR EYES THE MACHINE - LOVE FANTASY THE LEVEL - YOU'VE GOT RUNNING ON YOUR MIND JOE ...

23/11/2023

Crazy news.

Daryl Hall has been granted a restraining order against John Oates as part of a lawsuit against his bandmate. Read more details here.

22/11/2023

R.I.P. saxophonist Mars Williams, best known as a member of The Psychedelic Furs.

He’ll be greatly missed.

Mars Williams continued to fill the airwaves with his extraordinary talent, with his final performance taking place a mere two days after gracing the stage at the Darker Waves festival in Los Angeles. This virtuoso saxophonist, celebrated for his contributions to iconic bands such as the Psychedelic...

22/11/2023

This week we give thanks for another twofer with a couple of legends. First up is my brief chat with jazz icon Les McCann. This weekend Les is releasing a special box set for Record Store Day, Never a Dull Moment - Live From Coast to Coast 66-67. This gorgeous collection showcases his mastery of the...

22/11/2023

SPIN OF THE DAY - Visiting one of my favorite albums to come out this year, from the progeny of one of Rock’s most well known frontman of the last 40 years.

Irish band Inhaler was formed by vocalist/guitarist Elijah Hewson, bassist Robert Keating, guitarist Josh Jenkinson and drummer Ryan McMahon back in 2012 while the four were at St. Andrews College together in Dublin. While you may not immediately recognize Hewson by his surname, he chose to follow in his famous father Paul’s musical footsteps - who you might know better by his stage name Bono, lead singer of a little band called U2.

Of course having famous parentage doesn’t guarantee talent, or success, necessarily. You’ve got to have the goods on your own if you truly want your make it. While there are times vocally that the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree, with Elijah occasionally sounding remarkably like his father in his younger days, musically he and the band truly set themselves apart. Taking influence from the like of The Stone Roses, New Order, Depeche Mode, Oasis, The Strokes and Bloc Party, the group’s Indie/Alt Rock style is right up my alley.

CUTS & BRUISES is the second outing from Inhaler, full of great songs like “Just To Keep You Satisfied”, “Love Will Get You There”, “These Are The Days” and “If You’re Gonna Break My Heart”, among others. Killer stuff I hope to hear live by the band someday, and I look forward to seeing what they have to offer on future albums. One of several different limited edition pressings of the album, this version comes on White & Black splatter colored vinyl, with a gatefold jacket and alternate album cover artwork.

21/11/2023

The Sly Dog and The Wife recount their visit to Paisley Park! They discuss the Ultimate Experience, their first visit VS's this new one, the Sly Dog almost combusting from excitement, being drawn to the Purple Rain motorcycle, holding a million dollar guitar, and much more! Tune in, turn it up, &...

20/11/2023

We're back to discuss all the latest happenings in the rock world with Geekwire!

Here's a look at what we're covering this week:

- A Kurt Cobain cigarette pack is going up for auction.
- Sammy Hagar invites David Lee Roth and Alex Van Halen to join him on his 2024 tour.
- Gene Simmons is "sad and angry" about Ace Frehley and Peter Criss' absence from Kiss' upcoming tour.
- Judas Priest announce their "Invincible" tour.
- Steven Adler says Vince Neil's voice is "rock and roll gold."
- Geddy Lee says Rush used to do a lot of co***ne to keep their energy up.
- Alice Cooper's official book, "Starring Alice Cooper," is due out in May 2024.
- Jack Russell and Tracii Guns announce collaborative album, "Medusa."
- We reflect on our memories of the passings of Eric Carr and Freddie Mercury.

All that as well as notable album anniversaries, rock stars we're remembering, and upcoming albums to get excited about.

We hope you enjoy Geekwire and SHARE with a friend!

Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcasts family.

Listen NOW at https://www.decibelgeek.com/geekwire-week-of-11-19-23-ep553/

15/11/2023

15/11/2023

NEW EPISODE ALERT! Garrison Starr joins us for our first Ani DiFranco episode.

We also discuss Garrison's latest project "My Sister, My Brother" which is pretty dang great.

Now....how do we convince Ani that Garrison should open some shows for her? That would be a dream lineup! Come on Ani!

Go check out the episode y'all!

15/11/2023

The Darling Buds were another one of those excellent British alternative bands of the late 80s/early 90s that was sadly short lived. Three strong albums in four years and then nothing for a long time. People listening to college radio or scouring records stores around that time would know them well....

14/11/2023

SPIN OF THE DAY - Getting in a debut spin of the new album from one of my favorite bands of the last decade.

British band The Struts hail from Derby, England, and are one of those groups that have never failed to impress me. They write killer tunes, put on amazing live shows, and are genuinely about the nicest bunch of guys you’d ever hope to meet. Frontman Luke Spiller is a true “Rockstar” in the classic mold, possessing an extraordinary voice, and giving 200% in his live performance. The rest of the band - guitarist Adam Slack, bassist Jed Elliott and drummer Gethin Davies - are no less his equals, and together make for a truly impressive unit. All of which makes it surprising that they aren’t as big as they should be. The Struts should be selling out major arenas, and selling millions of albums, yet so far that level of success has eluded them.

Recently released at the beginning of November, their fourth album, PRETTY VICIOUS, may or may not help remedy that situation, but it certainly should. It’s another damn fine album from the group, chockablock full of catchy, sing-along songs that should be all over radio. Definitely making my yearly best of list.

This is the limited edition exclusive version from Experience Vinyl on White colored wax, but you can also pick up the standard pressing on Violet Purple vinyl.

09/11/2023

NEW EPISODE ALERT! OK...not really...it was posted on Tuesday but I've been on the road...

Natalie Price Music joins us to dive into the Muse record "Absolution." We also talk about The Flying Burger in Arkansas (why?), speaking in tongues, pancake delights and more. I may have been a little more snarky on this episode. I blame it on the work travel in Arkansas. CHECK IT OUT NOW!

09/11/2023

It's been a long time but we're backed to serve up some great, loud goodness with the Radio Sucks Radio Show!

This week Aaron is bringing great tracks from The Marvelous 3, Spirit Adrift, Andy Taylor, Chris Catalyst, and The Coyote Stylite. Additionally, we discuss the recent Marvelous 3 reunion shows and potential future plans.

Chris is sharing cool tracks from Rock City Machine Co., Freakshow, Thundermother, Brother Cane, and Riley's L.A. Guns. The guys also discuss the recent passing of Steve Rily, the RCMC album, Freakshow's recent addition of bassist Rik Fox, and more.

It's a fun mix of rock music and discussion to help you through your day. We hope you enjoy the Radio Sucks Radio Show and SHARE with a friend!

Decibel Geek is a proud member of the Pantheon Podcasts family.

Listen NOW at https://www.decibelgeek.com/radio-sucks-radio-show-ep552/

09/11/2023

Former guests Robert LaRoche of the Sighs and John Douglas of the Trashcan Sinatras return to discuss their brand new solo albums. Robert's new one Forevermore continues his perfect brand of "country-tinged power pop". And John's self-titled release shows his take on acoustic stripped-down versions....

08/11/2023

We have another excellent twofer up this week with two decorated artists. First is Andrew Roachford! In the US, he's primarily remembered for his 1989 hit "Cuddly Toy" which still slaps today, but did you know he's an MBE back in England and one of their biggest selling artists? Over the years, whet...

07/11/2023

SPIN OF THE DAY - Getting around to spinning another recent pickup, and the sophomore outing from Matchbox Twenty (or Matchbox 20, if you prefer).

The Orlando, Florida band was formed in 1995, with three of its members - lead singer Rob Thomas, bassist Brian Yale and drummer Paul Doucette - coming out of the group Tabitha’s Secret. Guitarists Kyle Cook and Adam Gaynor were brought into the fold by producer Matt Serleric, who had worked with both previously, and thought together would round out a terrific new band, soon to be dubbed Matchbox 20. They were quickly signed to a seven album deal with Atlantic Records, releasing their debut album YOURSELF OR SOMEONE LIKE YOU in late 1996. That album went on to become a huge success, spawning five hit singles over the next three years, and eventually selling over 12 Million copies.

When it was finally time to release this follow-up album, MAD SEASON, in May of 2000, it had the benefit of years of hype behind it. The album’s first single, “Bent” immediately shot to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, earning the band their first #1 hit. Four more singles followed in “If You’re Gone”, the album’s title track, “Last Beautiful Girl” and “Angry”, making for another multi-million seller.

This pressing of MAD SEASON on Sky Blue colored vinyl, was released as part of this year’s Rhino Records annual Rocktober promotion, marking the first time the album had appeared on vinyl (outside of a very limited edition box set of their catalog, that is). To be honest, even though I like the album, I don’t think I’ve listened to it on the whole in at least a decade. While it still holds up as a solid record, revisiting it brought up some revelations. I always thought “The Burn” should have been a single, and still do now. Similarly with moody mid-tempo number “Rest Stop”, which I recall the band had been playing on tour years prior to this album coming out. Definitely a couple of missed opportunities there. Also, looking back at it now, “Angry” seems an odd choice for an album opener. Leading with “Bent” would have been a stronger option, but there you go. Either way, another one I’m happy to finally have on vinyl.