Sound & Groove, Episode 42: "He Walked on the Wild Side" Part 2

Lou Reed, 1942-2013

Lou Reed unveiled the ugly realities behind the decadent side of life, exposing the exploits and ultimate human frailty of the junkies, pimps, drag queens and transsexuals of the NYC underground while celebrating rock & roll at its 1950s doo-wop and R&B core and pioneering its distortion-laden, beautifully noisy future. For a while Lou lived that life of drug fueled madness and nearly paid for it but after making it out of the wilderness in the early 80s he stuck around for another three decades delivering honest, surprisingly tender and wise (for a guy renowned as being a difficult, prickly character) material that challenged conventions to the bitter end. Showing little regard for how he was perceived, his last studio album was a widely loathed collaborative double disc set with Metallica that drew shrugs from his own fans and borderline psychotic reactions from already rankled Metallica diehards. 

 

And then recently he was lost to the music world, passing away in October 2013 several months after a liver transplant. This episode is the second of two in December on the S&G Podcast that examine who he influenced, worked with, was covered by and how his own music and life evolved. So unwrap the xmas gifts, unwind, put on this podcast and hear a musical journey through yet another themed podcast here in 2013 with your host, Evan Dowbiggin. And if you're new to this podcast: Every month there will be a theme that the selection of music is centered around. It will be jam packed with my analysis, synopses, breakdowns, anecdotes and other witticisms you might enjoy. And not to worry, each month will contain a different theme than the last. All killer, no filler... other than when I talk and introduce the tunes and recap the ones before it. But aside from that? 100% juicy meat! Below I've also provided information and links relevant to the matters discussed in this particular edition of Sound & Groove.

 

Follow me on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Edowrimple

Hear it on itunes now! http://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/evan-dowbiggins-

podcast/id52303295

Track Listing:

1. Fear is a Man's Best Friend- John Cale (1974)
2. Femme Fatale- Big Star (1975)
3. Schizophrenia- Sonic Youth (1987)
4, Can I Kick it?- A Tribe Called Quest (1990)
5. Big Science- Laurie Anderson (1982)
6. Big Sky- Lou Reed (2000)
7. The Power of the Heart- Peter Gabriel (2010)
8. Perfect Day (Live)- Lou Reed (2008)

Info of note:

Intro- "Home at Last" by Steely Dan (1977)

Outro- "Fire in the Hole" by Steely Dan (1972)

All comments, questions and feedback are greatly welcomed and appreciated! I encourage participation. Even though I drain an hour off your life by listening to the podcast then checking through the links, at least you don't have to fork over your money to me... though if you feel like, you know... But in all seriousness, let me now what you'd like to hear or see and I'll consider it. Popular approval doesn't always sway me but having fans or listeners get their input would be just grand!

Sound & Groove, Episode 41: "He Walked on the Wild Side" Part 1

Lou Reed, 1942-2013

 

Lou Reed unveiled the ugly realities behind the decadent side of life, exposing the exploits and ultimate human frailty of the junkies, pimps, drag queens and transsexuals of the NYC underground while celebrating rock & roll at its 1950s doo-wop and R&B core and pioneering its distortion-laden, beautifully noisy future. For a while Lou lived that life of drug fueled madness and nearly paid for it but after making it out of the wilderness in the early 80s he stuck around for another three decades delivering honest, surprisingly tender and wise (for a guy renowned as being a difficult, prickly character) material that challenged conventions to the bitter end. Showing little regard for how he was perceived, his last studio album was a widely loathed collaborative double disc set with Metallica that drew shrugs from his own fans and borderline psychotic reactions from already rankled Metallica diehards. 

 

And then recently he was lost to the music world, passing away in October 2013 several months after a liver transplant. This episode is the first of two in December on the S&G Podcast that examine who he influenced, worked with, was covered by and how his own music and life evolved. So unwrap the xmas gifts, unwind, put on this podcast and hear a musical journey through yet another themed podcast here in 2013 with your host, Evan Dowbiggin. And if you're new to this podcast: Every month there will be a theme that the selection of music is centered around. It will be jam packed with my analysis, synopses, breakdowns, anecdotes and other witticisms you might enjoy. And not to worry, each month will contain a different theme than the last. All killer, no filler... other than when I talk and introduce the tunes and recap the ones before it. But aside from that? 100% juicy meat! Below I've also provided information and links relevant to the matters discussed in this particular edition of Sound & Groove.

 

Follow me on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Edowrimple

Hear it on itunes now! http://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/evan-dowbiggins-

podcast/id52303295

Track Listing:

1. Chelsea Girls- Nico (1967)

2. Lisa Says- Velvet Underground (1970)

3. Roadrunner- Jonathan Richman & the Modern Lovers (1974)

4. Rebel Rebel- David Bowie (1974)

5. What Goes on- Bryan Ferry (1978)

6. Love Comes in Spurts- Richard Hell & the Voidoids (1977)

7. Candy's Room- Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band (1978)

8. Average Guy- Lou Reed (1982)

Info of note:

Intro- "Aja" by Steely Dan (1977)

Outro- "I Got the News" by Steely Dan (1977)

All comments, questions and feedback are greatly welcomed and appreciated! I encourage participation. Even though I drain an hour off your life by listening to the podcast then checking through the links, at least you don't have to fork over your money to me... though if you feel like, you know... But in all seriousness, let me now what you'd like to hear or see and I'll consider it. Popular approval doesn't always sway me but having fans or listeners get their input would be just grand! 

Sound & Groove Programming Note

Yes yes I realize there's been a bit of a delay in the newest episode but take faith! I am working on a couple for December which is typically- because of the holidays- a month I only include one episode for. And the first one will be out Monday December 16th. Expect the next one to be released December 30th. Making up for a November of inactivity from the S&G team. Apologies and hope you're geared up for what's to come.

Sound & Groove, Episode 40: "You Say it's Your Birthday?" Part 2

Years before mainstream, multi-platinum, Grammy winning success recognized the immense blues innateness and talented interpretive singing of one Bonnie Raitt, she was a promising young talent straight out of the folk and blues club scene of the Boston area. Releasing her debut album at age 21 and earning the rock press's approval as a maybe less histrionic and frenetic heir to Janis Joplin's "Blues mama" throne, Bonnie expanded her horizons with each new release in order to find those elusive just desserts commercially. It came late in the 70s finally but soon faded just as quickly, leaving her a so-called "has been" by the mid-80s without a record label and with a atypical blues musician, hard living, alcohol-dependent lifestyle to kick. Once all this was solved, she made her triumphant comeback in 1989. One of her many shrewd covers on 1973's Takin My Time LP makes its way into the 2nd and final October episode of this podcast.

Blowing out the candles on another year is always a day to enjoy and forget about all your troubles. Of course the older you get the less you want to be reminded of your advancing years but I digress. Youth is not eternal so get over it! Here on Sound & Groove podcast, the big day is embraced with a shiny selection of eight songs inspired by that joyous of anniversary celebrations. So unwrap the gifts, unwind, put on this podcast and hear a musical journey through yet another themed podcast here in October 2013 with your host, Evan Dowbiggin

And if you're new to this podcast: Every month there will be a theme that the selection of music is centred around. It will be jam packed with my analysis, synopses, breakdowns, anecdotes and other witticisms you might enjoy. And not to worry, each month will contain a different theme than the last. This is the second of two episodes this month of October going by the theme of "You Say it's Your Birthday?." All killer, no filler... other than when I talk and introduce the tunes and recap the ones before it. But aside from that? 100% juicy meat! Below I've also provided information and links relevant to the matters discussed in this particular edition of Sound & Groove.

Follow me on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Edowrimple

Hear it on itunes now! http://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/evan-dowbiggins-

podcast/id52303295

Track Listing:

1. Born in Time- Bob Dylan (1990)

2. You're Sixteen- Johnny Burnette (1960)

3. Born Under Punches (The Heat Goes on) (Live)- Talking Heads (1983)

4. Invitation- The Feelies (1991)

5. I Don't Want to Spoil the Party- The Beatles (1964)

6. Edge of Seventeen- Stevie Nicks (1981)

7. I Gave My Love a Candle- Bonnie Raitt (1973) 

8. Happy Birthday- Charles Mingus (1978)

9. Happy Birthday- The Ramones on the Simpsons (1993) 

Info of note:

Intro- "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now" by The Smiths (1984)

Outro- "What Difference Does it Make?" by The Smiths (1985)

All comments, questions and feedback are greatly welcomed and appreciated! I encourage participation. Even though I drain an hour off your life by listening to the podcast then checking through the links, at least you don't have to fork over your money to me... though if you feel like, you know... But in all seriousness, let me now what you'd like to hear or see and I'll consider it. Popular approval doesn't always sway me but having fans or listeners get their input would be just grand!

Sound & Groove, Episode 39: "You Say it's Your Birthday?" Part 1

Fishbone had origins as a ska band with a punk edge, but made up entirely of African-American members. With a little something for everyone they sang socially aware songs and challenged the idea that an all-black band couldn't rock the stage with the same fury as a hardcore punk band. If you think the Red Hot Chili Peppers were a sonic force to behold live, you never saw footage of Fishbone- one of several artists represented here on another lovely edition of "Sound & Groove" podcast.

Blowing out the candles on another year is always a day to enjoy and forget about all your troubles. Of course the older you get the less you want to be reminded of your advancing years but I digress. Youth is not eternal so get over it! Here on Sound & Groove podcast, the big day is embraced with a shiny selection of eight songs inspired by that joyous of anniversary celebrations. So unwrap the gifts, unwind, put on this podcast and hear a musical journey through yet another themed podcast here in October 2013 with your host, Evan Dowbiggin

And if you're new to this podcast: Every month there will be a theme that the selection of music is centred around. It will be jam packed with my analysis, synopses, breakdowns, anecdotes and other witticisms you might enjoy. And not to worry, each month will contain a different theme than the last. This is the first of two episodes this month of October going by the theme of "You Say it's Your Birthday?." All killer, no filler... other than when I talk and introduce the tunes and recap the ones before it. But aside from that? 100% juicy meat! Below I've also provided information and links relevant to the matters discussed in this particular edition of Sound & Groove.

Follow me on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Edowrimple

Hear it on itunes now! http://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/evan-dowbiggins-

podcast/id52303295

Track Listing:

1. Born into a Light- Ryan Adams & the Cardinals (2008)

2. Born at the Right Time- Paul Simon (1990)

3. Party Out of Bounds- The B-52s (1980)

4. Tears at the Birthday Party- Elvis Costello & Burt Bacharach (1998)

5. Birthday- Paul McCartney (1990)

6. Born to Be Wild- Wilson Pickett (1969)

7. Party at Ground Zero- Fishbone (1985) 

8. Sixteen Blue- The Replacements (1984) 

Info of note:

Intro- "The Headmaster Ritual" by The Smiths (1984)

Outro- "Hand in Glove" by The Smiths (1985)

Fishbone on Saturday Night Live, 1991: http://www.dailymotion.com/us/relevance/search/sunless+saturday/1#video=xl7e88

All comments, questions and feedback are greatly welcomed and appreciated! I encourage participation. Even though I drain an hour off your life by listening to the podcast then checking through the links, at least you don't have to fork over your money to me... though if you feel like, you know... But in all seriousness, let me now what you'd like to hear or see and I'll consider it. Popular approval doesn't always sway me but having fans or listeners get their input would be just grand!

Sound & Groove, Episode 38- "Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving" Part 2

The glossy Prefab Sprout, perhaps the most overlooked and underrated pop band out of the productive UK music scene of the 80s, their clean but invigorating sound being augmented by the succinct lyrics and hook crafting of leader Paddy McAloon (far left). Their music adorns the second episode of two in this month's Sound & Groove theme of "Giving Thanks to Thanksgiving."

The family gathering, the food, the wine. What isn't to love about Thanksgiving? Well add this podcast episode of Sound & Groove to the list as yours truly Evan Dowbiggin dredges up whatever can be found in terms of music related to, inspired by or directly dealing with that wonderful holiday on the 2nd weekend of October (last thursday of November if you're American!). So carve a turkey and watch the harvest moon rise, cause this first of two episodes this month is sure to get you in the mood for a feast.

And if you're new to this podcast: Every month there will be a theme that the selection of music is centred around. It will be jam packed with my analysis, synopses, breakdowns, anecdotes and other witticisms you might enjoy. And not to worry, each month will contain a different theme than the last. This is the second of two episodes this month of September going by the theme of "Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving." All killer, no filler... other than when I talk and introduce the tunes and recap the ones before it. But aside from that? 100% juicy meat! Below I've also provided information and links relevant to the matters discussed in this particular edition of Sound & Groove.

Follow me on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Edowrimple

Hear it on itunes now! http://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/evan-dowbiggins-

podcast/id52303295

Track Listing:

1. Appetite- Prefab Sprout (1985)

2. Thanksgiving- Loudon Wainwright III (1989)

3. Cold Turkey- John Lennon & the Plastic Ono Band (1969)

4. Yesterday's Wine- Willie Nelson (1971)

5. Family Affair- Sly & the Family Stone (1971)

6. Alice's Restaurant Massacree- Arlo Guthrie (1967)  

Info of note:

Intro- "Tonight, Tonight" by The Smashing Pumpkins (1998)

Outro- "Thirty Three" by The Smashing Pumpkins (1995)

All comments, questions and feedback are greatly welcomed and appreciated! I encourage participation. Even though I drain an hour off your life by listening to the podcast then checking through the links, at least you don't have to fork over your money to me... though if you feel like, you know... But in all seriousness, let me now what you'd like to hear or see and I'll consider it. Popular approval doesn't always sway me but having fans or listeners get their input would be just grand!

Sound & Groove Episode 37- "Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving, Part 1"

The Byrds short-lived 1968 lineup that churned out Sweetheart of the Rodeo, namely a direction driven by a young, yet to be well known Gram Parsons (second from left). Not accepted by the Nashville crowd, highlighted by a disastrous gig at the Grand Ole Opry and a radio guest spot where they were disparaged by the DJ, they inadvertently set up the roots of country-rock, a sound that with a few urban and mainstream touches led to multi-platinum success for many artists in the early 70s... just not Parsons or the Byrds, the former dying of an overdose in a Mojave Desert motel and the other breaking up after a failed original lineup reunion in 1973. One of their covers on that landmark LP relates back to this month's Thanksgiving theme on Sound & Groove.

The family gathering, the food, the wine. What isn't to love about Thanksgiving? Well add this podcast episode of Sound & Groove to the list as yours truly Evan Dowbiggin dredges up whatever can be found in terms of music related to, inspired by or directly dealing with that wonderful holiday on the 2nd weekend of October (last thursday of November if you're American!). So carve a turkey and watch the harvest moon rise, cause this first of two episodes this month is sure to get you in the mood for a feast.

And if you're new to this podcast: Every month there will be a theme that the selection of music is centred around. It will be jam packed with my analysis, synopses, breakdowns, anecdotes and other witticisms you might enjoy. And not to worry, each month will contain a different theme than the last. This is the first of two episodes this month of September going by the theme of "Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving." All killer, no filler... other than when I talk and introduce the tunes and recap the ones before it. But aside from that? 100% juicy meat! Below I've also provided information and links relevant to the matters discussed in this particular edition of Sound & Groove.

Follow me on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Edowrimple

Hear it on itunes now! http://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/evan-dowbiggins-podcast/id523032956

Track Listing:

1. Thank You Friends- Big Star (1975)

2. Elderberry Wine- Elton John (1973)

3. I Thank You- Sam & Dave (1968)

4. Give Me Love (Give Me Peace on Earth)- George Harrison (1973)

5. Be Thankful for What You've Got- William DeVaughn (1974)

6. Harvest for the World- The Isley Brothers (1976)

7. I Am a Pilgrim- The Byrds (1968)

8. King Harvest (Has Surely Come)- The Band (1969)

Info of note:

Intro- "Perfect" by The Smashing Pumpkins (1998)

Outro- "Melon Collie & the Infinite Sadness" by The Smashing Pumpkins (1995)

All comments, questions and feedback are greatly welcomed and appreciated! I encourage participation. Even though I drain an hour off your life by listening to the podcast then checking through the links, at least you don't have to fork over your money to me... though if you feel like, you know... But in all seriousness, let me now what you'd like to hear or see and I'll consider it. Popular approval doesn't always sway me but having fans or listeners get their input would be just grand!