You, Me and An Album

(TW: brief mention of lyrics referencing suicide) Canadian singer/songwriter/guitarist Adrian Sutherland joins Al to introduce him to The Killers’ 2021 album Pressure Machine. Adrian talks about how The Killers have influenced his own music and what he loves about this specific album by the Las Vegas-based band. He focuses on how his upbringing in Attawapiskat First Nation in Northern Ontario helps him to personally relate to several of the album’s themes. Adrian also talks about his recently-released solo album Precious Diamonds and about his work away from the band Midnight Shine in general. He discusses his upcoming book as well as other recent and ongoing projects.There’s a lot to keep up with in terms of Adrian’s work, but visiting his website is a good place to get started! https://adriansutherlandmusic.com/Also, It’s easy to find Adrain on social media…just look for him at @attaboyadrian on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, YouTube and TikTok.Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:26 Adrian joins the show3:14 Pressure Machine is not a typical Killers album7:40 Adrian explains why he wanted to discuss Pressure Machine—and Nevermind13:19 The interviews included between songs help paint the picture of Nephi16:31 Adrian related to the aspects of religious life depicted in Pressure Machine18:34 Adrian talks about the musical elements of the album he likes24:41 Al was impressed by Brandon Flowers’ vocal versatility26:20 Adrian notes a couple of his favorite tracks from the album29:09 Adrian and Al discuss their responses to songs that cover difficult topics35:12 Adrian relates to the process The Killers went through making an album during the early part of the pandemic40:00 Adrian compares the processes in making each of his first two solo albums46:21 Adrian talks about working with Colin Linden as a producer50:15 Adrian discusses the making of his video for “Precious”52:29 Adrian explains why he is writing a book about growing up in Attawapiskat55:53 Adrian talks about some other current and upcoming projectsOutro music is from “Precious” by Adrian Sutherland.Support the show

Jazz bassist Mark Egan (Pat Metheny Group, Gil Evans Orchestra, Elements) introduces Al to John Coltrane’s 1965 classic A Love Supreme. Mark talks about how he first got acquainted with the album and why it’s a significant album for him personally. He discusses playing with devotional musician Krishna Das and how that connects with his affinity for A Love Supreme. Mark also talks about his experience of playing on Arcadia’s So Red the Rose, as well as the process of writing and recording his new album Cross Currents.Keep up with Mark’s music releases and tours at markegan.com...…Or check out Mark’s music on Bandcamp: https://markegan.bandcamp.com/.Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:35 Mark joins the show2:02 Mark talks about the music he listened to in his teen years5:31 Mark discusses the period where he first immersed himself in jazz7:25 Mark explains how A Love Supreme changed his life11:14 Mark highlights some unique aspects of the album17:47 Mark explains how A Love Supreme influenced his musical development24:01 Mark recommends Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue as a prerequisite to listening to A Love Supreme27:06 Mark explains why he revisits jazz records over and over30:55 How does Mark hear A Love Supreme when he listens to ti now?33:14 Mark talks about the process of writing songs for Cross Currents with Shawn Pelton and Shane Theriot40:51 Once the songs were written, Cross Currents came together quickly43:29 Cross Currents also benefits from multiple listens45:51 Mark talks about working on Arcadia’s So Red the Rose58:04 Mark talks about his work with Krishna Das, and how it connects with A Love Supreme1:05:17 An eclectic Boston radio station laid the foundation for Mark’s love of A Love SupremeOutro music is from “Cross Currents” by Mark Egan.Support the show

Superchunk guitarist Jim Wilbur joins Al and introduces him to The Triffids’ 1986 album Born Sandy Devotional. Jim talks about how he first heard the album when he was a college DJ, which tracks he gravitated towards and why he still listens to the album now. He and Al compare their impressions regarding both the album’s music and lyrics. Jim also discusses what’s in store for Superchunk in the coming months, including the Merge 35 Festival.Keep up with Superchunk on Merge Records' website! https://www.mergerecords.com/artist/superchunkAlso be sure to check out their music on Bandcamp: https://superchunk.bandcamp.com/Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:16 Jim joins the show2:01 Jim talks about discovering Born Sandy Devotional as a college DJ4:31 The album almost defies description7:40 Jim hears all of the album’s songs as relating to a single character10:00 Jim talks about the connection between the Triffids and Nick Cave11:49 Jim and Al make note of the lighter and darker sides of Born Sandy Devotional14:57 Jim explains how the album reminds of him where he grew up16:58 Jim talks about what it was like to DJ at a small college radio station19:54 Jim recalls some other bands he played as a DJ21:26 Jim extols the merits of listening to the album straight throughDiscussion of specific tracks23:19 The Seabirds27:14 Tarrilup Bridge30:00 Lonely Stretch33:44 Life of Crime35:10 Stolen Property37:27 Jim shares his perspective on the role of David McComb’s lyrics39:32 Jim talks about what gives Born Sandy Devotional a timeless quality41:57 Jim’s relationship with rock music has changed over time43:47 Jim explains why he likes to listen to classical music45:36 Jim talks about David McComb’s difficult life48:19 Jim recommends some other Triffids albums to check out50:14 Al was surprised to see that Born Sandy Devotional was produced by Gil Norton51:43 Jim provides an update on Superchunk’s upcoming recording and tour plansOutro music is from “Everybody Dies” by Superchunk.Support the show

This is the second of a two-part conversation with Washington, DC-based singer, guitarist and songwriter Mary Timony (Autoclave, Helium, Wild Flag, Ex Hex, solo). Mary talks about the difficult circumstances under which she made her new album, Untame the Tiger, and how her parents’ illnesses and deaths gave her a new perspective. She also discusses the experience of recording parts of the album on the legendary Sound City mixing board and working with drummer Dave Mattacks. Mary explains how writing songs as a member of Wild Flag has played a critical role in Ex Hex’s sound. (Her discussion of Ex Hex first appeared on Ep. 131.)Give Mary a follow on Instagram (if you don’t already)! @marytimonyAlso be sure to visit Mary’s website: marytimonymusic.comAl is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/0:52 Al’s introduction to Part 2 of the conversation with Mary2:08 Mary explains how difficult circumstances led her to make Untame the Tiger7:11 Mary talks about the people she worked with on the new album12:35 Mary discusses making the album while dealing with her parents’ illnesses and deaths16:54 Mary explains how that period helped her to put life into a different perspective18:05 Mary talks about writing and playing with Ex Hex20:40 The experience of writing songs for Wild Flag changed her songwriting process24:58 Mary compares the two Ex Hex albumsOutro music is from “Dominoes” by Mary Timony.Support the show

This is the first of a two-part conversation with indie rock singer, guitarist and songwriter Mary Timony (Autoclave, Helium, Wild Flag, Ex Hex, solo). In this episode, Mary introduces Al to Andy Pratt’s self-titled 1973 album. (In Part 2, Mary will discuss her soon-to-be-released solo album Untame the Tiger.) Mary discusses how she came to learn about Andy Pratt, which songs on the album are her favorites and why she thinks more people need to know about his music.Give Mary a follow on Instagram (if you don’t already)! @marytimonyAlso be sure to visit Mary’s website: marytimonymusic.comAl is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:13 Mary joins the show1:44 Mary became fascinated with Andy Pratt’s story5:39 The first seconds of Andy Pratt grabbed Mary and Al’s attention7:45 Even before starting the conversation, Mary and Al knew they had some shared musical tastes9:54 Mary has clear favorite tracks from the album11:55 Mary doesn’t understand why Pratt’s music didn’t become more popular13:44 Mary explains why she loves “Sittin’ Down in the Twilight”15:12 Mary was impressed by the musicianship on the album20:29 Mary and Al were both mesmerized by “Inside Me Wants Out”23:16 Mary provides some background on Pratt’s careerDiscussion of the album’s tracks26:23 Avenging Annie30:54 It’s All Behind You37:26 Call Up That Old Friend40:13 Give It All to Music47:08 Who Am I Talking To48:08 Is there such a thing as a perfect album?51:46 All the King’s Weight57:34 So Fine59:09 Deer Song1:00:31 It’s hard to pick the last song that goes on an albumOutro music is from “The Guest” by Mary Timony.Support the show

Al continues his conversation with Seattle-based singer/rapper/musician/songwriter Wanz, which began on Ep. 144. Wanz talks about recording his world-famous hook for Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’ “Thrift Shop,” and his experience with performing in the song’s video. He also talks about the elements of great songwriting, with specific references to Taylor Swift and the Beatles. Wanz winds up by discussing #TheBookOfWanz, his Wanzology podcast and some of the lessons he wants to impart through these and other outlets.Be sure to follow Wanz! @teewanz on Instagram and ThreadsAs Wanz mentioned in this episode, you can find his music and lots else on his website, thewanz.com.The easiest way to find #TheBookOfWanz is to type #TheBookOfWanz into the search field on Amazon. Just be sure to remember the pound sign.Also, check out the Wanzology podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wanzology/id1719005835Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:48 Wanz talks about recording “Thrift Shop”3:57 Wanz faced an obstacle when filming the “Thrift Shop” video4:46 Touring with Macklemore was the realization of a dream7:44 Macklemore created a new blueprint for independent artists11:32 Wanz explains how Taylor Swift became a phenomenon15:49 Wanz outlines the keys to good songwriting17:46 Wanz talks about how each wave of great artists influences the next19:44 Wanz explains how his TEDx talk led him to #TheBookOfWanz and Wanzology27:01 Wanz talks about his ongoing musical work28:57 Wanz explains why he wants to do more public speaking32:12 Lessons from Yoda, Spock, The Matrix and Ferris BuellerOutro music is from “Wander” by Wanz.Support the show

Seattle-based musician, singer, rapper and songwriter Michael Wansley (aka Wanz) drops in on YMAAA for the first of two episodes to talk about Earth, Wind & Fire’s 1979 album, I Am. Wanz talks about his lifelong EWF fandom, what he loves about I Am, and how it compares to other EWF albums. He also explains how the album is a reflection of the changes in the music industry that were occurring in the late ‘70s. Wanz and Al also discuss other bands that were popular around the same time, including Toto, The Police and Rush.Wanz’ TEDx Talk, "You, Too, Can Be a Unicorn," is outstanding. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JGPy-bbpRfMAl mentioned that he had interviewed Steve Lukather, David Paich and Joseph Williams of Toto. The interviews were for a couple a pieces for American Songwriter, which are linked below.https://americansongwriter.com/toto-talks-toto-to-celebrate-their-debut-albums-45th-anniversary/https://americansongwriter.com/6-toto-songs-that-are-miles-away-from-yacht-rock/Wanz is on Instagram and Threads at @teewanz!Also be sure to check out Want’s music and more at thewanz.comAl is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:36 Wanz joins the show2:26 Wanz has worked many different jobs to support his music3:52 Wanz has a collection of EWF t-shirts6:17 An EWF promo poster connected Wanz with an early bandmate7:58 Wanz paid close attention to EWF over a span of 10 albums8:51 Wanz talks about EWF’s progression through the albums leading up to I Am15:20 EWF was the first concert Wanz ever went to19:10 Wanz and Al talk about the Police and Sting’s Bring on the Night documentary21:35 Wanz blames one album for changing radio23:16 Wanz singles out the decision EWF made that led to their commercial demise26:24 Maurice White’s death gave Wanz a reason to deep-dive into the EWF catalog again27:21 Wanz talks more about how radio changed in the late ‘70s31:10 Wanz remembers how he was introduced to Rush32:51 Wanz explains what makes “Boogie Wonderland” a perfect song36:09 Wanz loves the whole second side of I Am39:15 Wanz explains why I Am is a different-sounding EWF album43:01 Did the right tracks get released as singles?46:34 Transcribing “Rock That!” in the pre-digital era was not an easy task48:12 Al and Wanz talk about the Toto connections to I Am49:57 Wanz explains how Phil Collins got connected with EWF53:57 Steve Lukather’s memoir changed the way Wanz understands how the recording industry used to work57:34 The interludes are one of Wanz’s favorite parts of I Am1:01:10 Wanz finds some interesting names in the album creditsOutro music is from Wanz, “Go Where the Love Is.”Support the show

Singer-songwriter Danny O’Keefe, whose songs (including his Top 10 hit, “Goodtime Charlie’s Got the Blues”) have been covered by Jackson Browne, Elvis Presley, Glen Campbell, Judy Collins, Willie Nelson, Allison Krauss and many others, joins Al to get him better acquainted with Miles Davis’ 1959 classic, Kind of Blue. Danny talks about how he was introduced to the album, why it has been the album he has listened to the most in his life and which parts he particularly enjoys. Danny and Al also get into a Steely Dan discussion, as a result of Al comparing some sax solos. Danny recounts his relationship with Ahmet Ertegun and discusses his recently-released album, Circular Turns.Be sure to follow Danny on Facebook and visit his website, dannyokeefe.com!Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:20 Danny joins the show1:50 Danny talks about his introduction to Kind of Blue5:26 How important is it to know music theory as a musician and as a listener?10:01 How does Kind of Blue transport Danny?11:39 Danny identifies a couple of features of the album that he looks forward to14:08 Al is accustomed to the structure of rock music15:40 Danny talks about some of the solos from the album17:27 How has Kind of Blue influenced Danny’s work?19:13 Danny walks through his songwriting process22:23 Danny explains the significance of Kind of Blue25:05 Danny talks about the allure of the folk revolution26:35 Do you have to connect with an album right away to enjoy it?30:00 Al did an experiment to try to figure out why he didn’t connect more with Kind of Blue35:27 Danny talks about his relationship with Ahmet Ertegun and Atlantic Records43:15 Danny explains how his new album, Circular Turns, came about45:02 Danny identifies some covers of his songs that he particularly enjoys48:27 Danny talks about his upcoming plansOutro music is from “The Road” by Danny O’Keefe.Support the show

Singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Henning Ohlenbusch (Gentle Hen, the Fawns, solo) makes a return appearance to You, Me and an Album to discuss XTC’s 1986 album, Skylarking. Henning talks about why he loves Skylarking and why XTC is one of his favorite bands. He gets into the aspects of XTC’s songwriting that are especially appealing and how the album reminds him of the Beatles, the Beach Boys and the Kinks. Henning also talks about the new Gentle Hen album, The Whole Point of the Trip, and why it took four years to make.Henning was previously on YMAAA on Ep. 72, discussing Ha! Ha! Ha! by Ulltravox.Be sure to follow Henning on Instagram and Threads at @henningo!To learn more about Gentle Hen, visit their website at gentlehen.com or find their music at https://gentlehen.bandcamp.com/.Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:10 Henning joins the show1:37 Henning explains why he chose Skylarking—and not English Settlement—for this episode4:28 Henning and Al talk about the impact Todd Rundgren had on the album7:08 Henning and Al discuss “Dear God”’s eventual placement on Skylarking11:23 Al summarizes his reaction to the album12:10 Henning identifies what makes Skylarking a special album for him15:10 Why did Al have a different reaction to Skylarking than he did to The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society?17:23 XTC changed the way that Henning listens to albums22:22 Henning talks about what he likes about XTC’s songwriting26:00 Al reveals a pet peeve he has about a certain style of songwriting29:10 All appreciates that Andy Partridge’s songwriting has a subtle side31:33 Henning thinks of the album as being divided into chunks33:20 Henning highlights some of his favorite parts of the album40:01 Henning points out a couple of interesting rhythms from Skylarking44:12 Henning and Al talk about the “Dear God” controversy46:08 Henning discusses the vocal similarities of Partridge and Colin Moulding50:02 Al compares the new Gentle Hen album with XTC and Peter Gabriel53:02 Henning talks about how The Whole Point of the Trip developed54:43 When does Henning know it’s time for a Gentle Hen album?56:30 Henning talks about his near-term plansOutro is from “Birds of Massachusetts” by Gentle Hen.Support the show

Music journalist and sports author Dan Epstein joins Al to talk about the Isley Brothers’ 1973 album, 3 + 3. Dan shares his memories of buying the album and listening to it for the first time, and he breaks down each of the album’s nine tracks. He also discusses the Isleys’ longevity, their lack of acclaim compared to contemporaries, such as Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye, and their penchant for recording covers.Dan talked about his excellent Substack newsletter, Jagged Time Lapse.  Be sure to check it out and subscribe! It’s at danepstein.substack.com.Follow Dan on Instagram at @dockfidrych!Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:12 Dan joins the show1:59 “That Lady” was Dan’s introduction to the Isley Brothers4:58 Dan eventually learned the Isleys had been around since the ‘50s5:50 Dan recounts the day he bought 3 + 3 in 198914:44 Dan and Al talk about the progression in the Isleys’ discography leading up to 3 + 317:07 Al was astounded when he first heard “Contagious”18:28 Dan got Ernie Isley to tell him how he got his guitar sound on “That Lady”20:16 Ernie Isley and Brian May are special guitarists for Dan for a particular reason21:30 Dan walks through what he likes about each track on the albumObservations about each track23:56 That Lady24:09 Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight25:21 If You Were There26:01 You Walk Your Way28:17 Listen to the Music29:26 What It Comes Down To31:40 Sunshine (Go Away Today)32:53 Summer Breeze38:02 The Highways of My Life40:17 Dan asserts that 3 + 3  is one of the great albums of the early ‘70s42:56 Dan has an explanation for why 3 + 3 hasn’t received more acclaim47:34 Why did the Isleys include so many covers on their albums?52:41 Dan and Al talk about associations they have formed around certain songs56:08 Dan discusses his Substack, Jagged Time Lapse57:35 Al sums up how his response to 3 + 3 developed1:00:31 Dan’s got some holiday content on his Substack1:06:01 Dan updates us on his upcoming book on Redd KrossSupport the show

Joe Steinhardt, the co-founder and owner of the Philadelphia-based record label Don Giovanni Records and guitarist, vocalist and songwriter for the band Modern Hut, drops by YMAAA to introduce Al to Iris DeMent’s The Way I Should. Joe talks about why this is an important album for him and how it changed the way he thinks about music. He delves into several of his favorite tracks from the album and updates us on what’s new at his record label.Joe mentioned a live performance of “Wasteland of the Free” that he watches frequently (and recommends that we do too). You can find the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhgb9hYjX3g.He also discussed DeMent’s performance of “Surely, I Will, Lord”. It’s not the performance he saw, but you can see DeMent play the song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USUvLDhcrgY.Follow Don Giovanni Records on Instagram: @dongiovannirecords…and check out the label's website at https://www.dongiovannirecords.com/.Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:14 Joe joins the show1:44 Joe talks about his progression for exploring Iris DeMent’s music9:22 Joe explains why he choose The Way I Should for this episode11:22 Al understands why Joe went with The Way I Should after initially picking a different album16:18 Joe mentions the tracks he might skip on The Way I Should19:24 “Wasteland of the Free” has been a perspective-shifting song for Joe28:44 Joe relates to DeMent’s songs in a different way as he gets older32:13 Joe and Al discuss “Letter to Mom”35:55 Joe talks about some of DeMent’s more recent work37:48 Joe appreciates how DeMent takes risks with her songs41:11 Joe has some personal connections to DeMent’s music51:13 Joe explains what makes the title track a highlight of the album55:26 “Quality Time” is also a song that resonated with Joe and Al56:54 The Way I Should helped to clarify for Joe the importance of truth-telling in music1:00:29 Joe talks about some of the new things happening at Don Giovanni RecordsOutro is from “I Don’t Want to Get Adjusted to This World” by Modern Hut.Support the show

Jeff Palfini, the co-founder of the Connecticut-based Boondocks Film Society, joins Al to talk about the soundtrack to the 1998 film, The Last Days of Disco. Jeff talks about the intersection of film and music, why movie soundtracks have been important to him and why this particular soundtrack is a favorite of his. He also highlights some of his favorite songs on the album and discusses the upcoming plans for Boondocks Film Society.Jeff made a reference to a podcast called Hit Parade, and you can check it out here: https://slate.com/podcasts/hit-paradeAs Jeff suggests in this episode, you should follow Boondocks Film Society to keep up with their events! @boondocksfilmsociety on Instagram and https://boondocksfilmsociety.org/Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:10 Jeff joins the show2:18 Jeff talks about his work with Boondocks Film Society6:02 Jeff discusses the premise of The Last Days of Disco9:10 Jeff explains why he chose the soundtrack for this episode14:59 Al wonders how people who aren’t into movies keep up with new music16:33 Jeff talks about passive influences on musical tastes19:33 Jeff discusses the mix of songs on the soundtrack20:50 Jeff recently learned about how members of Chic produced much of his favorite music28:35 Jeff and Al talk about disco’s long-overdue reevaluation34:34 More love for Chic!35:55 Jeff focuses on the diversity of artists represented on the soundtrack41:39 Al heard “Knock on Wood” differently than when it first came out46;11 Jeff and Al discuss “I Love the Nightlife”50:00 Jeff highlights a couple of his favorite vocal performances on the album52:16 Jeff discusses the song that might be his favorite on the soundtrack54:47 Great songs are often saved for the closing credits1:02:24 Jeff talks about the upcoming plans for Boondocks Film SocietySupport the show

Musician and songwriter Casper Iskov joins Al to talk about Ride’s second album, Going Blank Again. He explains how he got acquainted with Ride’s music and why they have become a favorite band of his despite a negative first impression. Casper also talks about how he recently remade My Bloody Valentine’s Isn’t Anything in the style of a Green Day album and how an episode of You, Me and An Album with producer Tim Friese-Greene helped to inspire him to do so.The episode with Tim Friese-Greene just referred to above to was Ep. 79. You can listen to that one here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/79-tim-friese-greene-discusses-my-bloody-valentine/id1545282273?i=1000571013242.You should absolutely check out Casper’s cover of the entire Isn’t Anything album. You can listen to it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AyriOMmEtyw&t=256sFind Casper and his music at @casperiskov on Instagram and YouTube, or search for him on Spotify!Al is on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Instagram and Threads at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:15 Casper joins the show1:34 Al explains how he became aware of Casper’s music2:17 Casper talks about his introduction to Ride’s music6:37 What does Casper like—and dislike—about shoegaze?10:54 Casper and Al hear an interesting blend of different influences on Going Blank Again12:20 Al has opinions about Ride’s drummer, Loz Colbert16:31 Casper marvels at the album’s depth of good songs19:02 Are the critiques of Ride’s lyrics fair?25:18 Casper helps Al hear what’s happening in “Chrome Waves”28:21 Casper likes the album’s combination of pop and experimental writing29:58 Casper finds the album inspires him to do things that make him feel alive31:59 Casper explains why he makes covers36:59 Concluding thoughts on Going Blank Again38:00 Casper explains why he decided to cover the entirety of Isn’t Anything in the style of Green Day41:54 Al shares his reaction to Casper’s version of Isn’t Anything43:29 Casper walks through the process of making his MBV covers49:14 Casper talks about his new single and video and his future plansThe music featured in the outro is from “Soft as Snow (But Warm Inside)” by Casper Iskov.Support the show

Ex Hex drummer Laura Harris makes her return to YMAAA to talk about Canadian electronic music pioneer Bruce Haack and his album, The Electric Lucifer.  Laura shares why this album holds a special place for her, discusses her favorite tracks from the album and explores how it relates to her general fascination with synthesizers. She also talks about the recent Ex Hex tour and what’s happening with her other bands, Ecstatic International and The Owners.Note: This episode was recorded at the lesson and rehearsal space where Laura works, and about an hour in, you can hear drumming in the background (presumably from someone’s lesson).Take lessons with Laura! You can book sessions through the 7 Drum City website (https://www.7drumcity.com/laura-harris-bio.html) or by contacting her directly by email at laurajeanharris12@gmail.com.Also, be sure to follow each of Laura’s bands on Instagram!Ex Hex: @exhexbandEcstatic International: @ecstatic_internationalThe Owners: @the.owners.band1:24 Laura joins the show2:40 Was Bruce Haack the Father of Techno?4:17 The Electric Lucifer marks Haack’s transition away from music for children7:10 Haack made some interesting appearances on TV8:28 Laura provides some background information on Haack15:30 Some music and TV shows made for kids are pretty scary19:57 Children play a key role in the story told in The Electric Lucifer23:11 How did The Electric Lucifer get released on a major label?26:55 Laura finds the disjointedness of the album’s music appealing30:12 It’s a strange album, but it has some jams31:09 Laura explains why she chose The Electric Lucifer36:33 Laura identifies one of her favorite tracks from the album41:12 Laura addresses the psychedelic aspects of the album46:40 Laura and Al break down the song “War”51:42 Laura discusses “Song Of The Death Machine” and her rescue parrots58:34 Laura and Al get into a Genesis discussion…and relate it back to Laura’s fascination with Bruce Haack and synthesizers1:04:03 Laura summarizes what’s great about the album1:07:10 Laura talks about the recent Ex Hex shows1:10:45 Laura updates us on what’s next for Ecstatic International and The OwnersOutro is from “Corridor” by Ecstatic International.Support the show

Visual artist, writer, producer, director and filmmaker — and creator of Programme 4 and Easy AM 66 — Rachel Lichtman introduces Al to The Anita Kerr Singers’ 1971 album, Grow to Know Me. Rachel talks about the special role this album has played for her over the last few years, why she is a fan of vocal groups and easy listening and why we should appreciate Anita Kerr’s contributions to popular music more. She also talks about why she created Programme 4 and Easy AM 66 and what inspired their creation.As Rachel mentioned, it’s best to follow her on Instagram:@rachellichtman and @programmefour……but she’s also on Bluesky at @rachellichtman.bsky.social and on Twitter/X at @rachelichtman.Al is on Twitter/X at @almelchiorBB and on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Twitter/X, Threads and Instagram at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter and participate in weekly chats about this podcast’s featured albums! https://youmealbum.substack.com/Note: Tammy Faye Starlite did the Nico voiceover for the public service announcement.1:16 Rachel joins the show1:54 Rachel explains her affinity for vocal groups5:35 Rachel explains why she chose to talk about Anita Kerr8:25 The cover for Grow to Know Me primed Rachel to get excited about the album11:58 Grow to Know Me strikes Rachel as a transitional album15:07 Rachel talks about the different versions of the album18:19 Is Grow to Know Me a concept album?19:50 Rachel talks about why Grow to Know Me is special to her22:23 Rachel discusses some of the songwriters and vocalists Kerr worked with25:48 Why does easy listening get labeled as “uncool”?35:42 The culture of easy listening was more accepting than rock culture37:58 Rachel found easy listening comforting early on during the pandemic39:40 A short break40:57 Easy listening is already getting reevaluated45:56 Al talks about a couple of tracks that defied his expectations47:23 Rachel wants to hear a Flat Five version of “Blame It On a Monday”49:44 The songwriters and vocalists represented on the album were versatile54:02 Rachel has a remedy for overcoming a concern for “coolness”58:46 Kerr may have suffered from getting pigeonholed1:01:01 The songs on Grow to Know Me highlight the full range of Kerr’s talents1:04:27 Rachel summarizes what Programme 4 is about and why she created itSupport the show

Former Genesis lead guitarist, prolific solo artist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Steve Hackett joins Al — an ardent Genesis fan — to discuss his just-released live album, Foxtrot At Fifty + Hackett Highlights (Live In Brighton). Steve talks about his setlist choices for this album, how the songs differ from their original studio versions, which period of Genesis he thinks was the best and his upcoming studio album and tour plans.Just about everything Steve Hackett-related can be found on his website, hackettsongs.com.Also, be sure to follow Steve on Twitter/X and Instagram!Twitter/X: @HackettOfficialIG: @stevehackettofficialAl is on Twitter/X at @almelchiorBB and on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Twitter/X, Threads and Instagram at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter and participate in weekly chats about this podcast’s featured albums! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:12 Steve joins the show2:14 Steve talks about next year’s Lamb Highlights tour and upcoming studio album6:43 Steve explains the setlist choices for his new live album9:34 Steve remembers back to Genesis’ Lamb Lies Down on Broadway tour10:53 Steve discusses the importance of playing live versions that are different from the studio originals14:40 Steve reveals how new versions of his songs typically get created16:29 Steve talks about his band’s rhythm section18:30 Steve discusses his band’s English-American-Swedish connection21:06 Steve explains why Genesis gave up on playing “Can-Utility and the Coastliners” live23:18 Steve thinks Genesis’ best work was still to come after Foxtrot26:23 Which part of Foxtrot has Steve’s band improved upon the most?28:23 Steve recommends an album that he lovesOutro is from Steve Hackett, “Watcher of the Skies (live).”Support the show

Indie rock icon Juliana Hatfield pays YMAAA a visit to talk about the soundtrack album for the 1980 musical motion picture, Xanadu, which features Olivia Newton-John and Electric Light Orchestra. Juliana talks about being a fan of both artists growing up, her Olivia Newton-John covers album and her upcoming ELO covers album and the difficulties involved in covering other artists’ songs in general.Juliana made a reference to the How Did This Get Made? podcast. If you want to check it out, you can find it here: https://www.earwolf.com/show/how-did-this-get-made/Al mentioned an interview with Fee Waybill that he had read in which he discusses The Tubes’ involvement in Xanadu. Here’s the link: https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/the-tubes-fee-waybill-recalls-bonkers-xanadu-scene-214128554.html?fr=sycsrp_catchallHere are links to the videos for “Dancin’” that Al mentioned.Clip of the scene from Xanadu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ts9GdyGD5e4Olivia Newton-John and Tubes video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WckwVPVnLyMJuliana is on Instagram at @julianahatfield.Also, check out her website, https://www.julianahatfield.com/……and her Substack: https://julianahatfield.substack.com/.Al is on Twitter/X at @almelchiorBB and on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Twitter/X, Threads and Instagram at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter and participate in weekly chats about this podcast’s featured albums! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:19 Juliana joins the show1:36 Juliana’s album choice is the perfect one for her2:34 Juliana chose the Xanadu soundtrack for a variety of reasons6:02 John Farrar’s songwriting was important to this album8:29 Juliana faced some challenges when trying to cover “Suddenly”14:57 Why didn’t Juliana include a cover of “I’m Alive” on her new ELO covers album?17:59 Juliana didn’t become familiar with ELO’s deeper cuts until recently23:18 Al was fascinated by “Dancin’”30:10 Gene Kelly makes an appearance on the soundtrack31:16 Juliana didn’t care about Xanadu being perceived as uncool33:31 Al talks about what he likes about Juliana’s cover of “Magic”35:50 Juliana and Al get into a discussion of Weezer’s covers38:22 Juliana explains why she wanted to make an ELO covers album41:25 Artists borrowing from other artists doesn’t bother Juliana46:41 Juliana learned a lesson from covering “Don’t Bring Me Down”50:27 Covering ELO had its own specific challenges54:26 Did Juliana intend to record a series of covers albums?Outro is from “Can’t Get It Out Of My Head” by Juliana Hatfield.Support the show

Vocalist and guitarist Maura Weaver (Mixtapes, Ogikubo Station) joins Al to introduce him to Elliott Smith’s self-titled album. Maura talks about how she got introduced to Elliott Smith’s music, why this album holds a special place for her and how it has helped to shape her own work. She also talks specifically about the throughlines between this Elliott Smith album and her just-released solo debut, I Was Due For A Heartbreak.Be sure to keep up with Maura and her work!@mauraweaver on Instagram and Threads@everreadyy on Twitter/XAl is on Twitter/X at @almelchiorBB and on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Twitter/X, Threads and Instagram at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter and participate in weekly chats about this podcast’s featured albums! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:12 Maura joins the show2:08 Al explains why he was glad that Maura chose this album3:18 Maura talks about the first songs that got her into Elliott Smith6:38 Maura gives one reason for why this album is special to her8:08 Al starts to talk about his first reaction to Elliott Smith9:18 Did it take time for Maura to get used to the sound of Smith’s music?13:50 Maura discusses the elements of Elliott Smith that are poppy19:12 Al expands on his experience with the album23:03 Covers are the gateway to Elliott Smith’s music for some people26:21 Maura explains what she loves about Smith’s guitar-playing style28:49 Maura mentions some of Smith’s songs that she sometimes plays30:51 Maura put her love of indie folk to the side with Mixtapes33:53 Maura is an Elliott Smith power listener36:25 Drug addiction is a major theme on Elliott Smith…or is it?39:38 Al pinpoints what made Elliott Smith hard to access at first43:24 Maura talks about some ways in which she relates to Smith’s music48:45 Maura and Al discuss some of the album’s lyrics52:37 Maura elaborates on how Smith influenced I Was Due For A Heartbreak55:45 Could Maura draw inspiration from a bee sting?57:06 Maura cites another example of Smith’s influence on her lyrics59:53 Good lyrics are important to Maura1:01:43 Which band is a guilty pleasure for Maura?1:03:46 Maura talks about the changes in her singing style1:09:20 Maura discusses her upcoming performancesOutro is from “As If Your Love” by Maura Weaver.Support the show

This week’s episode isn’t about an album, but rather about a particular artist’s legacy. Author and professor Megan Mayhew Bergman makes her return to YMAAA (she had been the show’s guest on Ep 93) to make the case for reexamining the career of Kenny Loggins. Megan also argues that Loggins’ musical career has been marked by audacious decisions, including choices made regarding his arrangements, lyrics, collaborations and music videos. She and Al explore the theme of audacity through a discussion of several of Loggins’ better-known songs that span the various eras of his career.Al made note of Megan’s recent piece in The Atlantic on this summer’s flooding in Vermont. You can read it here (subscription required): https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2023/07/climate-change-safe-states-vermont-floods/674780/1:14 Megan joins the show1:24 Why are Megan and Al talking about Kenny Loggins?2:27 Megan and Al put their Kenny Loggins game faces on for this episode3:47 Megan recounts the moment when she realized Loggins needed a deeper examinationSong-by-song analysis6:31 Danny’s Song9:38 Whenever I Call You “Friend”13:15 Was Loggins a trend-setter or trend-follower?17:16 Celebrate Me Home22:34 This Is It/What A Fool Believes, and a discussion of “yacht rock” and “blue-eyed soul”31:06 I’m Alright34:26 Don’t Fight It35:47 Heart to Heart38:16 Megan reveals another aspect of Kenny Loggins’ audacity40:54 Footloose/I’m Free42:41 Danger Zone49:07 Meet Me Half Way52:17 Conviction of the Heart54:16 We’ve lost track of how much of pop music’s foundation Loggins is responsible for59:04 Megan updates us on her latest projectsSupport the show

This episode marks a YMAAA first, as it focuses on a band rather than an album. Al talks to each member of the Washington, DC-based alternative rock band Ex Hex — Mary Timony, Betsy Wright and Laura Harris — about the  group's two albums and upcoming live dates. The interview with Timony is an excerpt from an upcoming episode, while the interview with Wright is an excerpt from Ep. 44. Al’s discussion with Harris is a standalone interview (though she will also be on a new episode soon).Get information on Ex Hex’s live shows and more on Instagram at @exhexband and on their website, https://exhexband.com/shows!More social media for Ex Hex and its members…Ex Hex:@exhexband on Twitter/XMary Timony:@MaryT_Money on Twitter/X@marytimony on InstagramBetsy Wright@betsybooots on InstagramLaura Harris@heylisaharris on InstagramAl is on Twitter/X at @almelchiorBB and on Bluesky at @almelchior.bsky.social. This show has accounts on Twitter/X, Threads and Instagram at @youmealbum. Be sure to follow @youmealbum to find out in advance about upcoming guests and featured albums for this podcast.Subscribe for free to You, Me and An Album: The Newsletter and participate in weekly chats about this podcast’s featured albums! https://youmealbum.substack.com/1:18 Al explains why he’s doing a You, Me and a Band episode2:51 Introducing the members of Ex HexMary Timony interview excerpt4:11 Mary explains why Ex Hex is playing shows again6:51 When did Mary first get the idea to form Ex Hex?9:10 Mary challenged herself to craft catchy pop songs11:09 Does Mary prefer one Ex Hex album over the other?Laura Harris interview13:16 Ex Hex recently played a “warmup” show17:45 Laura talks about how she joined Ex Hex21:53 Laura compares the two Ex Hex albums28:16 Which bands have influenced Ex Hex’s sound?35:42 Laura’s playing style has varied with different bands she’s been in39:59 Which Ex Hex songs are Laura’s favorites to play?Betsy Wright interview excerpt44:57 Betsy talks about how Ex Hex’s songwriting process evolved48:02 Betsy compares Rips with It’s Real50:50 Betsy clears up a misheard lyric for Al52:52 Al wraps things upOutro is from “Want It To Be True” by Ex Hex.Support the show