In 1975, “Pampered Menial” was released to 5-star critical ratings. It was not a commercial success. However, in the years since, it has become a gem, possibly one of the greatest albums of the 70’s!  David Surkamp’s surreal 4-octave voice has been compared to Robert Plant.  Matched with Siegfried Carver's violin and Steve Scorfina's guitar, it creates a stunning work of art – intricate and majestic with guts and delicacy in equal measure. With this episode, we want to open more ears to an amazing piece of symphonic rock/metal.  Our “Album you must hear before you Die” is 1974’s “Crime of the Century” by Supertramp.  Produced by Ken Scott of Bowie fame, this album is where their sound came together as a kind of Pink Floyd-lite. Mick and Jeff saw them live around this time where their light show was similar in many ways to the light/movie show Floyd toured in the mid-late ‘80’s.  Mick’s comments on this album are quite contentious.  Jeff wants to awaken listeners to the sport of extreme kayaking, with a proposal for a 970m drop over Angel Falls in Venezuela.  Mick is not convinced.  While they’re about it, Mick and Jeff pay tribute to their teen broadcast heroes - Roy &amp; HG who still address callers to their program “Bludging on the Blindside” with “Happy Rugby League” Enjoy!  ____________________________________________________________  References: Roy &amp; HG, “Bludging on the Blindside”, tandem kayaking, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die”, Robert Dimery, "Crime of the Century”, Supertramp, "Bloody Well Right", "Crime of the Century", Rick Davies, Roger Hogson, “Dreamer”, Pavlov’s Dog, David Surkamp, Richard Nadler, Siegfried Carver, Steve Scorfina, "Song Dance", “Julia”, “Late November”, “Once and Future King”, “At The Sound of the Bell”, “She Came Shining”, Yes, Bill Bruford, Roxy Music, Andy Mackay  Pampered MenialEpisode PlaylistSkyaking

In 1975, “Pampered Menial” was released to 5-star critical ratings. It was not a commercial success. However, in the years since, it has become a gem, possibly one of the greatest albums of the 70’s!  David Surkamp’s surreal 4-octave voice has been compared to Robert Plant.  Matched with Siegfried Carver's violin and Steve Scorfina's guitar, it creates a stunning work of art – intricate and majestic with guts and delicacy in equal measure. With this episode, we want to open more ears to an amazing piece of symphonic rock/metal.  Our “Album you must hear before you Die” is 1974’s “Crime of the Century” by Supertramp.  Produced by Ken Scott of Bowie fame, this album is where their sound came together as a kind of Pink Floyd-lite. Mick and Jeff saw them live around this time where their light show was similar in many ways to the light/movie show Floyd toured in the mid-late ‘80’s.  Mick’s comments on this album are quite contentious.  Jeff wants to awaken listeners to the sport of extreme kayaking, with a proposal for a 970m drop over Angel Falls in Venezuela.  Mick is not convinced.  While they’re about it, Mick and Jeff pay tribute to their teen broadcast heroes - Roy &amp; HG who still address callers to their program “Bludging on the Blindside” with “Happy Rugby League”  Enjoy!  ____________________________________________________________ References: Roy &amp; HG, “Bludging on the Blindside”, tandem kayaking, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die”, Robert Dimery, "Crime of the Century”, Supertramp, "Bloody Well Right", "Crime of the Century", Rick Davies, Roger Hogson, “Dreamer”, Pavlov’s Dog, David Surkamp, Richard Nadler, Siegfried Carver, Steve Scorfina, "Song Dance", “Julia”, “Late November”, “Once and Future King”, “At The Sound of the Bell”, “She Came Shining”, Yes, Bill Bruford, Roxy Music, Andy Mackay <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3jUD1HDM2akjSJXhmxo5fh?si=x3-iDMELR6KGGfhlrLsCXw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pampered Menial</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5JtRu40CDe8Z07HFyR32Wu?si=8b9328f4001d4dee" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode Playlist</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/dNxdMl-C_tY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Skyaking</a>

"Pampered Menial” - Pavlov’s Dog's stunning lost gem from 1975

Rick Wakeman

 As a special treat, this episode features four tasty albums from the golden age of Rock.   Rick Wakeman’s “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”, accused of hastening the arrival of punk, and of justifying the need for it, ultimately sold over 14 million copies.  Go figure! “Not Fragile” by Bachman Turner Overdrive, topped the charts in USA and Australia proclaiming that “you ain’t seen nothin’ yet”!  The pick of the crop, the self-titled “Bad Company” was hailed as “swing and swagger with power chords”.  Arising from the ashes of Free and Humble Pie, Bad Company was one of the first bands to be dubbed a “supergroup” Our album that “You Must Hear before you Die” is Bowie’s "Young Americans" (1975), the album that first got America’s attention and laid the groundwork for “Heroes”, two years later.   Jeff also has plenty to say about fake American “influencers”, especially at events like Coachella!   Enjoy!!  References: “Young Americans”, David Bowie, One Damn Sing, John Lennon, “Fame”, “Across the Universe”, “A Day in the Life”, Carlos Alomar, King Arthur on Ice, Jules Verne, orchestral concerts, The Who, “Tommy”, A&amp;M Records, David Hemmings, “Grumpy Old Men”, “Not Fragile”, Randy Bachman, "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet", “Roll on down the Highway”, “Paul Rodgers, Simon Kirke, Free, Mick Ralphs, Mott the Hoople, Boz Burrell, King Crimson, Peter Grant, Swan Song Records, "Straight Shooter”, “Shooting Star”, Led Zeppelin, “Houses of the Holy”, Hipgnosis, "Can't Get Enough", “Movin’ On”, “Bad Company”, “Rock Steady”, “Ready for Love” Cochella Fashion 2023Episode Playlist

As a special treat, this episode features four tasty albums from the golden age of Rock.   Rick Wakeman’s “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”, accused of hastening the arrival of punk, and of justifying the need for it, ultimately sold over 14 million copies.  Go figure! “Not Fragile” by Bachman Turner Overdrive, topped the charts in USA and Australia proclaiming that “you ain’t seen nothin’ yet”!  The pick of the crop, the self-titled “Bad Company” was hailed as “swing and swagger with power chords”.  Arising from the ashes of Free and Humble Pie, Bad Company was one of the first bands to be dubbed a “supergroup” Our album that “You Must Hear before you Die” is Bowie’s "Young Americans" (1975), the album that first got America’s attention and laid the groundwork for “Heroes”, two years later.   Jeff also has plenty to say about fake American “influencers”, especially at events like Coachella!   Enjoy!!  References: “Young Americans”, David Bowie, One Damn Sing, John Lennon, “Fame”, “Across the Universe”, “A Day in the Life”, Carlos Alomar, King Arthur on Ice, Jules Verne, orchestral concerts, The Who, “Tommy”, A&amp;M Records, David Hemmings, “Grumpy Old Men”, “Not Fragile”, Randy Bachman, "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet", “Roll on down the Highway”, “Paul Rodgers, Simon Kirke, Free, Mick Ralphs, Mott the Hoople, Boz Burrell, King Crimson, Peter Grant, Swan Song Records, "Straight Shooter”, “Shooting Star”, Led Zeppelin, “Houses of the Holy”, Hipgnosis, "Can't Get Enough", “Movin’ On”, “Bad Company”, “Rock Steady”, “Ready for Love” <a href="https://www.seventeen.com/fashion/g2379/best-celebrity-coachella-fashion/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cochella Fashion 2023</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/56K2rV0DqxPaNmWxqcMFPG?si=b15ba1216f67406b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode Playlist </a>

Bad Company, Rick Wakeman, BTO and Bowie - A tasty foursome

 Nico – one-time member of The Velvet Underground - is an enigma in modern rock music.  Despite her wide-ranging influence, her music is not for the faint-hearted.  Mick saw Nico at the Sydney Trade Union Club in 1986 and it was a concert unlike any other. She's not for everybody, or even most people, but have a listen, you’ll hear something new and might just broaden your view on the rest of the music you listen to. We discuss why we don’t play actual music on our podcast (licensing laws!) and why we put a curated playlist to help you get a feel for what we talk about.  We like to think of our podcast as journalism for your ears! Our album "You Must Hear Before You Die” is Too-Rye-Ay by Dexy’s Midnight Runners, featuring the single, “Come On Eileen”, the only single from the album to be a hit.  Adding strings (violin, viola and cello) to the band's existing horn section created a joyous riot of Irish music-influenced pop and soul, with a potent mix of S-E-X! Enjoy!  References:  Martin Mull, TripleJ, APRA, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die”,  Robert Dimery, Too-Rye-Ay, Dexy’s Midnight Runners, Kevin Rowland, “Come On Eileen”, Van Morrison, Velvet Underground, “Songs They Never Play on the Radio”, "Chelsea Girls”, John Cale, Lou Reed, Roxy Music, Eno, “June 1, 1974”, Sydney Trade Union Club, Christa Paffgen, Andy Warhol, The Factory,  Andrew Loog Oldham, “I’m Not Saying”, Gordon Lightfoot, The Plastic Exploding Inevitable, “I’ll Be Your Mirror”, “All Tomorrow’s Parties”, “Femme Fatale”, “Desertshore”, “The Marble Index”, "Janitor of Lunacy", Nico, Cale and Lou Reed, Bataclan ‘72, “Heroes”, Bowie, "The Blue Angel”, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Cure, M0orrissey, Iggy Pop, Elliot Smith, Bjork, Peter Hook, Marianne Faithfull  Books You Are Beautiful, and You Are Alone – Jennifer Otter Bickerdike UPTIGHT!  The Velvet Underground Story – Victor Bockris (Reed, Cale, Stones)  The PlaylistThe Love Boat with Any Warhol

Nico – one-time member of The Velvet Underground - is an enigma in modern rock music.  Despite her wide-ranging influence, her music is not for the faint-hearted.  Mick saw Nico at the Sydney Trade Union Club in 1986 and it was a concert unlike any other. She's not for everybody, or even most people, but have a listen, you’ll hear something new and might just broaden your view on the rest of the music you listen to. We discuss why we don’t play actual music on our podcast (licensing laws!) and why we put a curated playlist to help you get a feel for what we talk about.  We like to think of our podcast as journalism for your ears! Our album "You Must Hear Before You Die” is Too-Rye-Ay by Dexy’s Midnight Runners, featuring the single, “Come On Eileen”, the only single from the album to be a hit.  Adding strings (violin, viola and cello) to the band's existing horn section created a joyous riot of Irish music-influenced pop and soul, with a potent mix of S-E-X! Enjoy!  References:  Martin Mull, TripleJ, APRA, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die”,  Robert Dimery, Too-Rye-Ay, Dexy’s Midnight Runners, Kevin Rowland, “Come On Eileen”, Van Morrison, Velvet Underground, “Songs They Never Play on the Radio”, "Chelsea Girls”, John Cale, Lou Reed, Roxy Music, Eno, “June 1, 1974”, Sydney Trade Union Club, Christa Paffgen, Andy Warhol, The Factory,  Andrew Loog Oldham, “I’m Not Saying”, Gordon Lightfoot, The Plastic Exploding Inevitable, “I’ll Be Your Mirror”, “All Tomorrow’s Parties”, “Femme Fatale”, “Desertshore”, “The Marble Index”, "Janitor of Lunacy", Nico, Cale and Lou Reed, Bataclan ‘72, “Heroes”, Bowie, "The Blue Angel”, Siouxsie and the Banshees, The Cure, M0orrissey, Iggy Pop, Elliot Smith, Bjork, Peter Hook, Marianne Faithfull Books You Are Beautiful, and You Are Alone – Jennifer Otter Bickerdike UPTIGHT!  The Velvet Underground Story – Victor Bockris (Reed, Cale, Stones)  <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2Gxj3uou73ALEQP9amHJEk?si=43b114e8903d464f" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Playlist</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/OeS5tgjLAUI" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Love Boat with Any Warhol</a>

Nico - An enigma worth the effort

Lou Reed

In 1989, Lou Reed released his tour de force, “New York”.   Many see this album as part of Reed’s holy trinity of spectacular albums - “Velvet Underground &amp; Nico”, “Berlin” and “New York”. Commercially &amp; artistically successful, this album took everything back to basics, and Reed himself was quoted as saying, “This is as good as it gets – two guitars, bass and drums”. Mick and Jeff both love this late-career revival album for its strong songs, caustic lyrics, perfect observations and great word play. This deals with the "everyday" – domestic violence, child abuse, corruption, politics – and it’s grittier for that reality.   The album you must hear before you die is 1988’s self-titled “Tracey Chapman”.  This album, very different to what was on the charts at the time, received 6 Grammy Award nominations, winning 3. The big hit from this album was “Fast Car", which sold strongly around the world, and still features in lists of the Greatest Songs of All Time.  Needless to say, Mick and Jeff think it’s a terrific single on a terrific album   Jeff leaps into the world of fashion with tips on the biggest style trends for men in 2023.  The boys talk about Abbey Road and Star Wars parody T-shirts, with Mick’s Peruvian t-shirt featuring llamas crossing the famous road. They’ve found Abbey Road shirts featuring not only The Simpsons, but The Depps (yep, Johnny Depp), The Sherlocks (of the Holmes variety), Dr Who and a Social Distancing design, with each person 1.5 metres apart!  We think you're going to love this episode.  We sure did!  References:  Lou Reed, “New York”, Abbey Road, llamas, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die” Robert Dimery Editor 2021, Tracey Chapman, “Fast Car”, Elektra, “Talkin’ ‘bout a revolution”, Billboard Hot 100, Globite School bag, “Berlin”, “Dirty Boulevard”, “Songs for Drella”, John Cale, Velvet Underground reunion tour PlaylistStyle trends for men 2023Linda Hurley song about invasive species to Australia

In 1989, Lou Reed released his tour de force, “New York”.   Many see this album as part of Reed’s holy trinity of spectacular albums - “Velvet Underground &amp; Nico”, “Berlin” and “New York”. Commercially &amp; artistically successful, this album took everything back to basics, and Reed himself was quoted as saying, “This is as good as it gets – two guitars, bass and drums”. Mick and Jeff both love this late-career revival album for its strong songs, caustic lyrics, perfect observations and great word play. This deals with the "everyday" – domestic violence, child abuse, corruption, politics – and it’s grittier for that reality.    The album you must hear before you die is 1988’s self-titled “Tracey Chapman”.  This album, very different to what was on the charts at the time, received 6 <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grammy_Award" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Grammy Award</a> nominations, winning 3. The big hit from this album was “Fast Car", which sold strongly around the world, and still features in lists of the Greatest Songs of All Time.  Needless to say, Mick and Jeff think it’s a terrific single on a terrific album   Jeff leaps into the world of fashion with tips on the biggest style trends for men in 2023.  The boys talk about Abbey Road and Star Wars parody T-shirts, with Mick’s Peruvian t-shirt featuring llamas crossing the famous road. They’ve found Abbey Road shirts featuring not only The Simpsons, but The Depps (yep, Johnny Depp), The Sherlocks (of the Holmes variety), Dr Who and a Social Distancing design, with each person 1.5 metres apart!  We think you're going to love this episode.  We sure did!  References:  Lou Reed, “New York”, Abbey Road, llamas, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die” Robert Dimery Editor 2021, Tracey Chapman, “Fast Car”, Elektra, “Talkin’ ‘bout a revolution”, Billboard Hot 100, Globite School bag, “Berlin”, “Dirty Boulevard”, “Songs for Drella”, John Cale, Velvet Underground reunion tour <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6pVsnVW2KrYoobieGR9Hvi?si=6cd9e08880b54b96" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Playlist</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/egiWO1uf8mQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Style trends for men 2023</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/tSYXLfZOz_c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Linda Hurley song about invasive species to Australia</a>

Lou Reed’s “New York” – A masterpiece in 14 tracks

Mick has discovered an excellent book - “The Number Ones – Twenty chart-topping hits that reveal the history of pop music” by Tom Breihan (Hachette Books, NY) - one of the best books ever written on how songs get, or don’t get, to the top of the charts.  Gems from the book include:   The Miracles’ “Shop Around”, Motown’s first hit, was kept out of the top spot by "Calcutta" by Lawrence Welk (Who?  WTF?) “The Twist”, by Chubby Checker, led to a wave of “Twist”-labelled hits. Except that, in this case, it was made “nicer” for white audiences, so that white DJs would play it.  The first “rap” single to top the charts was  “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice, in a story with more twists than an Agatha Christie novel! All the money Vanilla Ice made from his hit was gobbled up by lawyers for David Bowie &amp; Queen! Human League’s “Don't You Want Me, Baby?” became a breakthrough hit simply because MTV needed video clips when they started up, and most existing bands weren’t set up to provide them.  Our album you must hear before you die (with thanks to Robert Dimery) is The Pogues’ “Rum, Sodomy and the Lash” from 1985. The title is based on Winston Churchill’s quote that “English Naval tradition was nothing but rum, sodomy and the lash.”  Elvis Costello, who produced the album, saw his role as capturing the Pogues’ “dilapidated glory”, with the band heavily influenced by alcohol, and their name meaning, in Gaelic, “Pogue mahone”, or “up your arse”!   Musical gems abound on the album, not least in Ewan MacColl’s “Dirty Old Town”, and Eric Bogle’s “The Band Played Waltzing Matilda” (listed as one of the 30 Greatest Australian songs of all time). We love The Pogues, and you should, too.  Jeff has uncovered some gems from the mind of Donald Trump and his supporters, as well as discovering that the man has an ego bigger than the most deranged rock star.  Another jam-packed episode!   _______________________________________________________________  Books  “The Number Ones.  Twenty chart-topping hits that reveal the history of pop music”  Tom Breihan, Hachette Books, New York  The Show PlaylistTrump Justice for AllTrump the Best

Mick has discovered an excellent book - “The Number Ones – Twenty chart-topping hits that reveal the history of pop music” by Tom Breihan (Hachette Books, NY) - one of the best books ever written on how songs get, or don’t get, to the top of the charts.  Gems from the book include:   <ul><li>The Miracles’ “Shop Around”, Motown’s first hit, was kept out of the top spot by "Calcutta" by Lawrence Welk (Who?  WTF?) </li><li>“The Twist”, by Chubby Checker, led to a wave of “Twist”-labelled hits. Except that, in this case, it was made “nicer” for white audiences, so that white DJs would play it.  </li><li>The first “rap” single to top the charts was  “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice, in a story with more twists than an Agatha Christie novel! All the money Vanilla Ice made from his hit was gobbled up by lawyers for David Bowie &amp; Queen! </li><li>Human League’s “Don't You Want Me, Baby?” became a breakthrough hit simply because MTV needed video clips when they started up, and most existing bands weren’t set up to provide them. </li></ul> Our album you must hear before you die (with thanks to Robert Dimery) is The Pogues’ “Rum, Sodomy and the Lash” from 1985. The title is based on Winston Churchill’s quote that “English Naval tradition was nothing but rum, sodomy and the lash.”  Elvis Costello, who produced the album, saw his role as capturing the Pogues’ “dilapidated glory”, with the band heavily influenced by alcohol, and their name meaning, in Gaelic, “Pogue mahone”, or “up your arse”!   Musical gems abound on the album, not least in Ewan MacColl’s “Dirty Old Town”, and Eric Bogle’s “The Band Played Waltzing Matilda” (listed as one of the 30 Greatest Australian songs of all time). We love The Pogues, and you should, too.  Jeff has uncovered some gems from the mind of Donald Trump and his supporters, as well as discovering that the man has an ego bigger than the most deranged rock star.  Another jam-packed episode!  _______________________________________________________________ Books “The Number Ones.  Twenty chart-topping hits that reveal the history of pop music”  Tom Breihan, Hachette Books, New York  <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7lLF7CB042liuHgmk2lZxS?si=d180e24a25ad43f4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Show Playlist</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/uhXDz_ZTMfQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trump Justice for All</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/2i4JxWkSYzU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Trump the Best</a>

How Vanilla Ice made Bowie and Queen rich(er)

Ed Kuepper

This episode, we look at Ed Kuepper, whose fame sadly does not match in any way his contribution to rock’n’roll!  Bursting out of Brisbane in the mid-70's, Ed helped found The Saints, one of the key influences on punk.  Tiring of The Saints, he created The Laughing Clowns, before launching into a solo career interspersed with stints in The Aints and The Bad Seeds. The “Album You Must Hear before You Die” is the immortal “Tubular Bells”, Virgin Records’ first-ever release.  This was one of the first albums Mick ever bought, and what an album to start with!  Mick recounts the story how the Tubular Bells themselves, left behind in the studio after John Cale recorded “Paris 1919”, were a late addition to what became an iconic album.   On a lighter note, Jeff introduces extreme kayaking, and considers the possibility of a “Mick and the Phatman”-branded team, sponsored by a leading brand, leaping over 1000-metre waterfalls!    Enjoy!  The Ed Keupper Playlist"Also spake the King of Euro Disco" - YouTube - a MUST-LISTEN!!

This episode, we look at Ed Kuepper, whose fame sadly does not match in any way his contribution to rock’n’roll!  Bursting out of Brisbane in the mid-70's, Ed helped found The Saints, one of the key influences on punk.  Tiring of The Saints, he created The Laughing Clowns, before launching into a solo career interspersed with stints in The Aints and The Bad Seeds.  The “Album You Must Hear before You Die” is the immortal “Tubular Bells”, Virgin Records’ first-ever release.  This was one of the first albums Mick ever bought, and what an album to start with!  Mick recounts the story how the Tubular Bells themselves, left behind in the studio after John Cale recorded “Paris 1919”, were a late addition to what became an iconic album.    On a lighter note, Jeff introduces extreme kayaking, and considers the possibility of a “Mick and the Phatman”-branded team, sponsored by a leading brand, leaping over 1000-metre waterfalls!    Enjoy!  <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5JZGkaAj9B1jf3ZsVzti1Z?si=9b5d28e814684bcc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Ed Keupper Playlist</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQICf3ZkGs0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">"Also spake the King of Euro Disco" - YouTube - a MUST-LISTEN!! </a>

Ed Kuepper - The Saints' founder, Laughing Clown, sometime Aint and Bad Seed

Do you remember the best show you’ve ever seen?  How about the worst?  Mick and Jeff talk about what makes a great show and relive some of the best (and worst) they’ve seen.  Our Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “The B-52s” self-titled first album from 1979.  This high-energy album smashed the B-52s onto the world stage while looking like escapees from the Rocky Horror Show! To top it all off, Jeff brings you rock news featuring Alice Cooper, Pete Townshend, Brian Eno, Brian May, a Foo Fighters pinball machine, and a whole bunch of others. References:   Nita Strauss, Alice Cooper, Pete Townshend, Ann-Margret, Everly Brothers, “Bye Bye Love”, Brian Eno, EarthPercent campaign, Brian May, Bohemian Rhapsody, Ozzy Osbourne, Frankfurt, Roger Waters, Foo Fighters pinball machine, “The Dark Side of the Moon”, Jimmy Barnes, The Barnestormers, The B-52's, Chris Blackwell, Island Records, REM, Cindy Wilson, Kate Pierson, Fred Schneider, Ricky Wilson, “Rock Lobster”, Dick Dale, narwhal, “matching towels”, The Bridge Hotel, Rozelle, Riverwood Millers, Bexley North Hotel, Family Inn, Rydalmere, Caringbah Inn, Coogee Oceanic, Mi-Sex, Hurstville Civic Centre, Coffs Harbour Civic Centre, Sydney Entertainment Centre, The Hordern Pavilion, Ignatius Jones, Joylene Hairmouth, “Baby’s on Fire”, Sydney Olympics ceremonies, Nirvana, Queen, Lou Reed, Bowie, Bob Dylan, The Angels, Rose Tattoo, MiSex, John Cale, The Tigerlilies, The Kinks, John Cougar Mellencamp, Rolling Stones, Roxy Music, The Police PlaylistB52's Concert

Do you remember the best show you’ve ever seen?  How about the worst?  Mick and Jeff talk about what makes a great show and relive some of the best (and worst) they’ve seen.   Our Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “The B-52s” self-titled first album from 1979.  This high-energy album smashed the B-52s onto the world stage while looking like escapees from the Rocky Horror Show!  To top it all off, Jeff brings you rock news featuring Alice Cooper, Pete Townshend, Brian Eno, Brian May, a Foo Fighters pinball machine, and a whole bunch of others.  References:   Nita Strauss, Alice Cooper, Pete Townshend, Ann-Margret, Everly Brothers, “Bye Bye Love”, Brian Eno, EarthPercent campaign, Brian May, Bohemian Rhapsody, Ozzy Osbourne, Frankfurt, Roger Waters, Foo Fighters pinball machine, “The Dark Side of the Moon”, Jimmy Barnes, The Barnestormers, The B-52's, Chris Blackwell, Island Records, REM, Cindy Wilson, Kate Pierson, Fred Schneider, Ricky Wilson, “Rock Lobster”, Dick Dale, narwhal, “matching towels”, The Bridge Hotel, Rozelle, Riverwood Millers, Bexley North Hotel, Family Inn, Rydalmere, Caringbah Inn, Coogee Oceanic, Mi-Sex, Hurstville Civic Centre, Coffs Harbour Civic Centre, Sydney Entertainment Centre, The Hordern Pavilion, Ignatius Jones, Joylene Hairmouth, “Baby’s on Fire”, Sydney Olympics ceremonies, Nirvana, Queen, Lou Reed, Bowie, Bob Dylan, The Angels, Rose Tattoo, MiSex, John Cale, The Tigerlilies, The Kinks, John Cougar Mellencamp, Rolling Stones, Roxy Music, The Police  <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0WrxBhMjnZhfyM2Kv53b21?si=ef538d7fe10848d5" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Playlist</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/--RlVKXqglE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">B52's Concert</a>

Memorable Live Shows

More than any band we’ve covered in over 50 episodes, this band has delivered us the most blank looks! “Never heard of them!”, people say! So, we thought we’d remedy this serious hole in people’s musical appreciation by looking at one of the most exciting but overlooked musical occurrences of the 70’s. The Sensational Alex Harvey Band (SAHB) could only have existed during the 70’s, and possibly only in Glasgow. Starting with the idea that, to call yourself “Sensational”, you’ve got to be sensational, Alex Harvey joined local band, Tear Gas, to form SAHB in 1972. Singing in a broad Glaswegian accent, Alex Harvey led the band to become the highest-grossing live band in the UK. When they launched a song called, “Faith Healer” at 1973 Reading Festival, they blew Rod Stewart and Status Quo off stage!SAHB has influenced bands like AC/DC, The Cure and Nick Cave and inspired a generation of bands over the years since then.  There’re a million stories around SAHB. The anecdote involving The Doobie Brothers and the wrong dressing room is an absolute corker! Not to mention the time they gave AC/DC their big break on UK TV. Jeff is loving the possibilities of ChatGPT, and had it compose songs in the style of David Bowie and Elton John. Or a fruit-based limerick! Or an Eminem rap about cats. Yep, it’s as horrific as it sounds.Normally, we’d do an album “you must hear before you die”, but for a change, we’ve chosen to look at Rod Stewart’s wonderful mandolin effort, “Maggie May”, and how it’s based on an actual “experience” with an older woman where Rod’s biggest concern was that if his performance wasn’t good enough, his reputation could be ruined. Probably one of the best songs of Stewart’s career.   References: Artificial Intelligence, Chat GPT, Open AI, David Bowie, Elton John, Eminem, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die”, Robert Dimery, “Anatomy of a Song”, Marc Myers, “Maggie May”, “Reason to Believe”, Ron Wood, celesta, Rod Stewart sexual performance, “Storyteller”, Tear Gas, SAHB, “Mid-Atlantic accent”, Zal Cleminson, Chris Glen, Hugh &amp; Ted McKenna, Doobie Brothers, The Cure, AC/DC, “Framed”, The Coasters, “SAHB Live”, “Isobel Goudie”, “Faith Healer”, “Anthem”, “Tomahawk Kid”, “Delilah”, “Vambo” SAHB PlaylistVambo Live Youtube 

More than any band we’ve covered in over 50 episodes, this band has delivered us the most blank looks! “Never heard of them!”, people say! So, we thought we’d remedy this serious hole in people’s musical appreciation by looking at one of the most exciting but overlooked musical occurrences of the 70’s. The Sensational Alex Harvey Band (SAHB) could only have existed during the 70’s, and possibly only in Glasgow. Starting with the idea that, to call yourself “Sensational”, you’ve got to be sensational, Alex Harvey joined local band, Tear Gas, to form SAHB in 1972. Singing in a broad Glaswegian accent, Alex Harvey led the band to become the highest-grossing live band in the UK. When they launched a song called, “Faith Healer” at 1973 Reading Festival, they blew Rod Stewart and Status Quo off stage!SAHB has influenced bands like AC/DC, The Cure and Nick Cave and inspired a generation of bands over the years since then.  There’re a million stories around SAHB. The anecdote involving The Doobie Brothers and the wrong dressing room is an absolute corker! Not to mention the time they gave AC/DC their big break on UK TV. Jeff is loving the possibilities of ChatGPT, and had it compose songs in the style of David Bowie and Elton John. Or a fruit-based limerick! Or an Eminem rap about cats. Yep, it’s as horrific as it sounds.Normally, we’d do an album “you must hear before you die”, but for a change, we’ve chosen to look at Rod Stewart’s wonderful mandolin effort, “Maggie May”, and how it’s based on an actual “experience” with an older woman where Rod’s biggest concern was that if his performance wasn’t good enough, his reputation could be ruined. Probably one of the best songs of Stewart’s career.   References: Artificial Intelligence, Chat GPT, Open AI, David Bowie, Elton John, Eminem, “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die”, Robert Dimery, “Anatomy of a Song”, Marc Myers, “Maggie May”, “Reason to Believe”, Ron Wood, celesta, Rod Stewart sexual performance, “Storyteller”, Tear Gas, SAHB, “Mid-Atlantic accent”, Zal Cleminson, Chris Glen, Hugh &amp; Ted McKenna, Doobie Brothers, The Cure, AC/DC, “Framed”, The Coasters, “SAHB Live”, “Isobel Goudie”, “Faith Healer”, “Anthem”, “Tomahawk Kid”, “Delilah”, “Vambo”  <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/08SYtfAtX8rYm4u0xSmHtR?si=02e226aeb4284431" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SAHB Playlist</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/uiGsfv9ju8M" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Vambo Live Youtube </a>

The Sensational Alex Harvey Band – a sadly-missed phenomenon

We sometimes forget just how talented The Police - Sting, Stewart Copeland, Andy Summers - actually were. They arrived in the late-70's, merging elements of Reggae, New Wave &amp; Punk.  Their sound -  simple, lean (bass, drums, guitar), well-produced - still sounds fresh, with songs like “Roxanne”, “Message in a Bottle”, and “Walking on the Moon”.  We saw them live at the Hordern Pavilion back in 1980, in the days before digital light shows, when every single light can had a specific purpose – and what a show it was!  Our "Album You Must Hear Before you Die" is Frank Sinatra’s “In the Wee Small Hours”, a classic from the early LP era.  Sinatra is a master, and a joy to listen to. The man himself was certain that many baby boomers were conceived to the sound of this album.   Jeff tells us more about Mr Beast, and digital sampling of Beavis and Butt-Head.  It’s almost too much for one episode!! Police playlist _______________________________________  References:  Nelson Riddle, Chairman of the Board, "Ol' Blue Eyes", Sting, Stewart Copeland, Andy Summers, Outlandos d’Amour, Regatta de Blanc, Zenyatta Mondatta, Ghost in the Machine, Synchronicity, Roxanne, “The Secret Policeman’s Ball”, Message in a Bottle, Walking on the Moon, Hordern Pavilion, John Cale, The Bottom Line, Every Little Thing She Does is Magic, King of Pain, Wrapped Around Your Finger, Every Breath You Take, physical light cans 

We sometimes forget just how talented The Police - Sting, Stewart Copeland, Andy Summers - actually were. They arrived in the late-70's, merging elements of Reggae, New Wave &amp; Punk.  Their sound -  simple, lean (bass, drums, guitar), well-produced - still sounds fresh, with songs like “Roxanne”, “Message in a Bottle”, and “Walking on the Moon”. We saw them live at the Hordern Pavilion back in 1980, in the days before digital light shows, when every single light can had a specific purpose – and what a show it was!  Our "Album You Must Hear Before you Die" is Frank Sinatra’s “In the Wee Small Hours”, a classic from the early LP era.  Sinatra is a master, and a joy to listen to. The man himself was certain that many baby boomers were conceived to the sound of this album.   Jeff tells us more about Mr Beast, and digital sampling of Beavis and Butt-Head. It’s almost too much for one episode!! <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2fZRI88lalmYJBoZ9vkBdC?si=w9uMc5L1RbeTH8WZH0Y0GQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Police playlist</a> _______________________________________  References:  Nelson Riddle, Chairman of the Board, "Ol' Blue Eyes", Sting, Stewart Copeland, Andy Summers, Outlandos d’Amour, Regatta de Blanc, Zenyatta Mondatta, Ghost in the Machine, Synchronicity, Roxanne, “The Secret Policeman’s Ball”, Message in a Bottle, Walking on the Moon, Hordern Pavilion, John Cale, The Bottom Line, Every Little Thing She Does is Magic, King of Pain, Wrapped Around Your Finger, Every Breath You Take, physical light cans

The Police - Much more than "Every Breath You Take"

The Smiths, one of the finest bands produced by Britain (or anywhere).  Their third album, The Queen is Dead, is rated by Mick as one of the finest albums ever made.  We talk about where they came from, their influences, and why they are still popular today, over thirty years after they split.   Jeff brings you up to speed on recent rock deaths, talking about Jeff Beck, David Crosby and Renee Geyer, among others.  Our Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “New Wave”, by The Auteurs.  Mick damns it with faint praise, but then, he’s very picky!!  References:  Robbie Bachman, David Crosby, Anita Pointer, The Pointer SISTERS, Rodney Rude,  This is a Man’s World, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Johnny Rogan, The Severed Alliance, “The Smiths”, Johnny Marr, Morrissey, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, Neil Young, David Bowie, “Meat is Murder”, “The Queen is Dead”, “Strangeways Here we Come”, “How soon is now?”, “The Headmaster Ritual”, Rickenbacker, Phil Manzanera, “Panic”, Matt Johnson, The The, Mike Joyce (drums), Andy Rourke (bass), The wit of Steven Morrissey, The Smiths are very popular among depressedThe Smiths PlaylistAre The Smiths miserable?  Survey linkBook:  The Severed Alliance - Johnny RoganThe Cooker Travelling

The Smiths, one of the finest bands produced by Britain (or anywhere).  Their third album, The Queen is Dead, is rated by Mick as one of the finest albums ever made.  We talk about where they came from, their influences, and why they are still popular today, over thirty years after they split.   Jeff brings you up to speed on recent rock deaths, talking about Jeff Beck, David Crosby and Renee Geyer, among others.  Our Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “New Wave”, by The Auteurs.  Mick damns it with faint praise, but then, he’s very picky!!  References:  Robbie Bachman, David Crosby, Anita Pointer, The Pointer SISTERS, Rodney Rude,  This is a Man’s World, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Johnny Rogan, The Severed Alliance, “The Smiths”, Johnny Marr, Morrissey, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, Neil Young, David Bowie, “Meat is Murder”, “The Queen is Dead”, “Strangeways Here we Come”, “How soon is now?”, “The Headmaster Ritual”, Rickenbacker, Phil Manzanera, “Panic”, Matt Johnson, The The, Mike Joyce (drums), Andy Rourke (bass), The wit of Steven Morrissey, The Smiths are very popular among depressed <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0oY9zN3Ogvzm2R5UBFyVlP?si=48731676be894b0e" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Smiths Playlist</a> <a href="https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/stats-prove-it-smiths-among-8028088" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Are The Smiths miserable?  Survey link</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com.au/Morrissey-Marr-Alliance-Johnny-Rogan/dp/1468313134" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Book:  The Severed Alliance - Johnny Rogan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/cookerwatch/status/1615702766256820225?s=20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Cooker Travelling</a>

The Smiths - Four years and a lifetime of influence

Join Mick and the PhatMan as they dig into the Globite School Bag every fortnight to uncover a musical gem to critique.  They talk about music from the 60's through to the Noughties and as a pair of self opinionated bastards they will also give their views on everything else from growing up in the seventies to one more Kiss tour in the 2020's.  It doesn't matter if you are a Boomer, Gen X, Millennial or even a Gen Z then hop on for the ride.

 How often have you heard of an artist being labelled “over-rated”? Did it strike you as fair, or just a subjective, lazy way to insult artists you don’t like? Mick &amp; Jeff look at the concept of ‘over-rated’ as a way of describing artists, and consider whether certain artists ARE, in fact, over-rated, and, if so, why or why not?  Our album you MUST Listen to Before You Die is “Bossanova” by the Pixies. We talk about where the Pixies fit into the music universe and where this album fits in their canon of work.    Jeff provides a dip sample of some of the rock news so far this year, an update on what’s happened to Princess Fionnula now that’s she’s gone back to Ireland, and some of the finer points of beer tasting!  References:  Foo Fighters, Taylor Hawkins, Robert Forster, Go Betweens, “Venus”, Television, Marquee Moon, Justin Bieber, Mastodon, Elton John concert, Ian “Molly” Meldrum, Rolling Stone, “Top Australian Albums of 2022”, “King Stingray”, King Stingray, “Angel in Real Time”, Gang of Youths, “PrePleasure”, Julia Jacklin, “Matter of Time”, Meg Mac, Pixies, “Bossanova”, “Doolittle”, Tromp le Monde, “Wave of Mutilation”, Rolling Stones, Jeff Buckley, John Cale, “I like your old stuff better than your new stuff”, Ramones, REM, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Doors, “The 27 Club”, Rage Against the Machine, Pink Floyd, “Another Brick in the Wall”, KISS, Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Sex Pistols, Led Zeppelin, Oasis/Liam Gallagher/Noel Gallagher, Guns’n’Roses, The Smiths, Toto Overated Playlist

How often have you heard of an artist being labelled “over-rated”? Did it strike you as fair, or just a subjective, lazy way to insult artists you don’t like? Mick &amp; Jeff look at the concept of ‘over-rated’ as a way of describing artists, and consider whether certain artists ARE, in fact, over-rated, and, if so, why or why not?  Our album you MUST Listen to Before You Die is “Bossanova” by the Pixies. We talk about where the Pixies fit into the music universe and where this album fits in their canon of work.    Jeff provides a dip sample of some of the rock news so far this year, an update on what’s happened to Princess Fionnula now that’s she’s gone back to Ireland, and some of the finer points of beer tasting!  References:  Foo Fighters, Taylor Hawkins, Robert Forster, Go Betweens, “Venus”, Television, Marquee Moon, Justin Bieber, Mastodon, Elton John concert, Ian “Molly” Meldrum, Rolling Stone, “Top Australian Albums of 2022”, “King Stingray”, King Stingray, “Angel in Real Time”, Gang of Youths, “PrePleasure”, Julia Jacklin, “Matter of Time”, Meg Mac, Pixies, “Bossanova”, “Doolittle”, Tromp le Monde, “Wave of Mutilation”, Rolling Stones, Jeff Buckley, John Cale, “I like your old stuff better than your new stuff”, Ramones, REM, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Doors, “The 27 Club”, Rage Against the Machine, Pink Floyd, “Another Brick in the Wall”, KISS, Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Sex Pistols, Led Zeppelin, Oasis/Liam Gallagher/Noel Gallagher, Guns’n’Roses, The Smiths, Toto <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/38N2vt7SPwZPFJq1F4URdM?si=42c00765e31a4752" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Overated Playlist</a>

Why are some bands called "Over-rated"?

It’s St Valentine’s Day, and a chance for Jeff to show his sensitive side!  Other than cars and protest songs, rock’n’roll is ALL ABOUT love songs! We talk about love songs, songs about sex, songs mourning lost love, break-up songs, songs that aren't really about love at all, and look at a couple of massive hits that are best considered rubbish. Our Album You Must Hear Before You Die is one of the greats - “Born in the USA”, Bruce Springsteen’s 7th album. The title track alone, regularly cited by right wing politicians in the US as an example of American superiority, is in fact one of the most biting comments on the way the USA uses then discards people.  The boys also have another look at NFTs with the help of Formula 1 driver, Max Verstappen. Looking at investing? You'll feel much more confident with the help of Jeff and the ever-surprising Max.  References:  Clive Palmer, “We’re Not Gonna Take It”, Twisted Sister, “Khe Sanh”, Cold Chisel, “Dancing in the Dark”, Blinded by the Light, Annie Leibovitz, Bruce Springsteen “Live:  1975-1985", Globite School Bag, “My Boyfriend's Back”, Queen, “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”, Elvis Presley, "Can't Help Falling in Love", “Love Me Tender”, Claudia Jung, “Was Kann Mein Herz Dafur”, Jackie Wilson, "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher", Crowded House, Neil Finn, “It’s only natural”, “I Hope I Never”, Olivia Newton-John, “I Honestly Love You”, Unit 4 + 2, “Concrete and Clay”, Martin Plaza, The Beatles, “I Want to Hold Your Hand”, “All you need is love”, “Here, There and Everywhere”, Paul McCartney, “Maybe I’m Amazed”, “My Love”, John Lennon, “Oh Yoko”, “Jealous Guy”, George Harrison,  “Something”, 10cc, “I’m Not in Love”, Graham Gouldman, “The Things We Do for Love”, Carpenters, “Close to you”, Nick Cave, “Into Your Arms”, Bob Dylan, “If Not for You”, Buzzcocks, “Ever Fallen in Love”, David Bowie, “‘Heroes”, Troggs, “Love is all around me”, Warren Zevon, “Empty-Handed Heart”, ” Reconsider me”, U2, “With or Without You”, The Hugo &amp; Luigi Chorus, The Rolling Stones, “Wild Horses”, Badfinger, “Without You”, Prince, Sinead O’Connor, “Nothing Compares 2 U”, Gotye, “Just somebody That I used to Know”, ABBA, “Knowing Me, Knowing You”, “Mamma Mia”, Taylor Swift, Linda Ronstadt, “You’re No Good”, REM, “The One I Love”, The Police, “Roxanne”, Dolly Parton, “I Will Always Love You”, Tina Turner, “What’s love got to do with it?”, Tom Jones, “Delilah” Love Songs PlaylistSomebody that I Used to Know Video GotyeWalk off the Earth Beatle MedleyWalk off the Earth Gotye

It’s St Valentine’s Day, and a chance for Jeff to show his sensitive side!  Other than cars and protest songs, rock’n’roll is ALL ABOUT love songs! We talk about love songs, songs about sex, songs mourning lost love, break-up songs, songs that aren't really about love at all, and look at a couple of massive hits that are best considered rubbish. Our Album You Must Hear Before You Die is one of the greats - “Born in the USA”, Bruce Springsteen’s 7th album. The title track alone, regularly cited by right wing politicians in the US as an example of American superiority, is in fact one of the most biting comments on the way the USA uses then discards people.  The boys also have another look at NFTs with the help of Formula 1 driver, Max Verstappen. Looking at investing? You'll feel much more confident with the help of Jeff and the ever-surprising Max.  References:  Clive Palmer, “We’re Not Gonna Take It”, Twisted Sister, “Khe Sanh”, Cold Chisel, “Dancing in the Dark”, Blinded by the Light, Annie Leibovitz, Bruce Springsteen “Live:  1975-1985", Globite School Bag, “My Boyfriend's Back”, Queen, “Crazy Little Thing Called Love”, Elvis Presley, "Can't Help Falling in Love", “Love Me Tender”, Claudia Jung, “Was Kann Mein Herz Dafur”, Jackie Wilson, "(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher", Crowded House, Neil Finn, “It’s only natural”, “I Hope I Never”, Olivia Newton-John, “I Honestly Love You”, Unit 4 + 2, “Concrete and Clay”, Martin Plaza, The Beatles, “I Want to Hold Your Hand”, “All you need is love”, “Here, There and Everywhere”, Paul McCartney, “Maybe I’m Amazed”, “My Love”, John Lennon, “Oh Yoko”, “Jealous Guy”, George Harrison,  “Something”, 10cc, “I’m Not in Love”, Graham Gouldman, “The Things We Do for Love”, Carpenters, “Close to you”, Nick Cave, “Into Your Arms”, Bob Dylan, “If Not for You”, Buzzcocks, “Ever Fallen in Love”, David Bowie, “‘Heroes”, Troggs, “Love is all around me”, Warren Zevon, “Empty-Handed Heart”, ” Reconsider me”, U2, “With or Without You”, <a href="https://secondhandsongs.com/artist/132404" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Hugo &amp; Luigi Chorus,</a> The Rolling Stones, “Wild Horses”, Badfinger, “Without You”, Prince, Sinead O’Connor, “Nothing Compares 2 U”, Gotye, “Just somebody That I used to Know”, ABBA, “Knowing Me, Knowing You”, “Mamma Mia”, Taylor Swift, Linda Ronstadt, “You’re No Good”, REM, “The One I Love”, The Police, “Roxanne”, Dolly Parton, “I Will Always Love You”, Tina Turner, “What’s love got to do with it?”, Tom Jones, “Delilah” <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4s4iqbqerZPw6jrrrZgNG1?si=8d4eb48c8a544101" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love Songs Playlist</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/8UVNT4wvIGY" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Somebody that I Used to Know Video Gotye</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/rfOx4CmQWLs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walk off the Earth Beatle Medley</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/P9mybTArlsk" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walk off the Earth Gotye</a>

Ever Fallen in Love with Someone?

 Mick and Jeff are back for a new season! The music world is focussed on the hit, the chart-topper, the NUMBER ONE! But simply getting onto the charts signifies a certain amount of commercial success, doesn’t it?  We kick off with a look at some of the many songs that didn’t make it to the top of the charts, and see if they got different results in either the UK, US or Australia. Jeff brings us up to speed with some news about rock personalities.   The year’s first “Album to Listen to Before You Die” is “Hypnotised” by The Undertones.  We have a listen and wonder “Why”?    References:  Princess Fionnula returns to Ireland; Nickelback; Duran Duran; Andy Taylor; Noel Gallagher; Hawkwind; 2022 MTV Video Music Awards; Måneskin; The Undertones; The Guardian; Spice Girls; Rod Stewart; Oasis; Adam and the Ants;Eurythmics; Phil Collins; INXS; Blondie; Salt-N-Pepa; Slade; Roxy Music; Sparks; The Troggs – Wild Thing (1966);  The Sweet; Sex Pistols; Diana Ross; Elvis Presley; The KinksUnder PressurePlaylistThe Guardian: Culture" section 

Mick and Jeff are back for a new season!  The music world is focussed on the hit, the chart-topper, the NUMBER ONE! But simply getting onto the charts signifies a certain amount of commercial success, doesn’t it?  We kick off with a look at some of the many songs that didn’t make it to the top of the charts, and see if they got different results in either the UK, US or Australia. Jeff brings us up to speed with some news about rock personalities.    The year’s first “Album to Listen to Before You Die” is “Hypnotised” by The Undertones.  We have a listen and wonder “Why”?    References:  Princess Fionnula returns to Ireland; Nickelback; Duran Duran; Andy Taylor; Noel Gallagher; Hawkwind; 2022 MTV Video Music Awards; Måneskin; The Undertones; The Guardian; Spice Girls; Rod Stewart; Oasis; Adam and the Ants; Eurythmics; Phil Collins; INXS; Blondie; Salt-N-Pepa; Slade; Roxy Music; Sparks; The Troggs – Wild Thing (1966);  The Sweet; Sex Pistols; Diana Ross; Elvis Presley;  The Kinks <a href="https://youtu.be/0VLS-P9m0BM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Under Pressure</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/72sXrWJAGVqcthzcnUMFlv?si=334f07a7ca45401d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Playlist</a> <a href="http://theguardian.com/culture" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Guardian: Culture" section</a>

Songs that didn't quite make it to the top

For 2 years (45 episodes), Mick and Jeff have been creating this podcast. They’ve talked about more than 300 artists, shows, and albums, and Jeff has said the “F-”word over 250 times. Who could ask for more? They’ve broadcast from 25 “locations”, including some of the most remote parts of Australia, regularly bad-mouthed Jeff Buckley, and decided that Alice Cooper was a pretty good guy despite his music after “Welcome to my Nightmare” being pretty terrible! At times, they were right on the money, sometimes they weren’t, and proved that investment advice from Jeff should be taken lightly, if at all!   The Rolling Stone 500 Best Songs of all Time got Jeff all hot under the collar: “How does Kelly ****ing Clarkson get into any list of the Top 500 songs?!” Occasionally, fans contributed - Peter from Mackay tried to tell us about Globite School Bags; Gabbie from LA threatened to go postal after hearing Christmas music in LA department stores, and hates Coldplay as much as Mick does; and Ian from Sydney wants more random "I think they're doing the drugs again" spin outs like the idea that a giant Elon Musk battery would revolutionise the Outback.  Ian also started the scandal about Honey and Mead industry payola. (Thank you, Justine!)    A big thank you to the fans, to the magazines who wrote some very complimentary articles, and of course, to Roy and HG, whose radio program, “This Sporting Life” was a staple during our youth and the inspiration for us to start up at all.    Next year, you can expect more stories of your favourite musicians with little-known nuggets thrown in, a look at some musicians you might not be too familiar with and maybe even a few guests and interviews.    A great year in the offing! See you in February 2023.  ______________________________________________________  Here’s a list of the best books and magazines Mick has referenced over the last 2 seasons:   What’s Welsh for Zen? (John Cale) – Victor Bockris Up-Tight, The Velvet Underground Story – Victor Bockris/Gerard Malanga You are beautiful and you are alone (Nico) - Jennifer Otter Bickerdike The Severed Alliance (The Smiths) – Johnny Rogan Transformer (Lou Reed) – Bockris I’ll sleep when I’m dead (Warren Zevon) – Crystal Zevon On some faraway beach (Eno) - David Sheppard Tony Visconti, The Autobiography – Tony Visconti The History of Rock in the 70’s - Uncut Magazine (from Melody Maker &amp; NME archives) Anger is an energy – John Lydon I’m your Man, The life of Leonard Cohen – Sylvie Simmons Peter Gabriel, An Authorized Biography – Spencer Bright The Birthday Party, and other epic adventures – Robert Brokenmouth  David Hepworth: Overpaid, Oversexed and Over There Nothing is Real Uncommon People  And of course......  Mr Robert Dimery's “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die” (2021)   Magazines  Mojo - print and on-line Classic Rock - on line Far Out - on line The Mick and the Phatman 2022 Spotify PlaylistMoonage or MoonAge: You decide.

For 2 years (45 episodes), Mick and Jeff have been creating this podcast. They’ve talked about more than 300 artists, shows, and albums, and Jeff has said the “F-”word over 250 times. Who could ask for more? They’ve broadcast from 25 “locations”, including some of the most remote parts of Australia, regularly bad-mouthed Jeff Buckley, and decided that Alice Cooper was a pretty good guy despite his music after “Welcome to my Nightmare” being pretty terrible!  At times, they were right on the money, sometimes they weren’t, and proved that investment advice from Jeff should be taken lightly, if at all!   The Rolling Stone 500 Best Songs of all Time got Jeff all hot under the collar: “How does Kelly ****ing Clarkson get into any list of the Top 500 songs?!” Occasionally, fans contributed - Peter from Mackay tried to tell us about Globite School Bags; Gabbie from LA threatened to go postal after hearing Christmas music in LA department stores, and hates Coldplay as much as Mick does; and Ian from Sydney wants more random "I think they're doing the drugs again" spin outs like the idea that a giant Elon Musk battery would revolutionise the Outback.  Ian also started the scandal about Honey and Mead industry payola. (Thank you, Justine!)  A big thank you to the fans, to the magazines who wrote some very complimentary articles, and of course, to Roy and HG, whose radio program, “This Sporting Life” was a staple during our youth and the inspiration for us to start up at all.  Next year, you can expect more stories of your favourite musicians with little-known nuggets thrown in, a look at some musicians you might not be too familiar with and maybe even a few guests and interviews.  A great year in the offing! See you in February 2023.  ______________________________________________________  Here’s a list of the best books and magazines Mick has referenced over the last 2 seasons: <ul><li>What’s Welsh for Zen? (John Cale) – Victor Bockris </li><li>Up-Tight, The Velvet Underground Story – Victor Bockris/Gerard Malanga </li><li>You are beautiful and you are alone (Nico) - Jennifer Otter Bickerdike </li><li>The Severed Alliance (The Smiths) – Johnny Rogan </li><li>Transformer (Lou Reed) – Bockris </li><li>I’ll sleep when I’m dead (Warren Zevon) – Crystal Zevon </li><li>On some faraway beach (Eno) - David Sheppard </li><li>Tony Visconti, The Autobiography – Tony Visconti </li><li>The History of Rock in the 70’s - Uncut Magazine (from Melody Maker &amp; NME archives) </li><li>Anger is an energy – John Lydon </li><li>I’m your Man, The life of Leonard Cohen – Sylvie Simmons </li><li>Peter Gabriel, An Authorized Biography – Spencer Bright </li><li>The Birthday Party, and other epic adventures – Robert Brokenmouth  </li><li>David Hepworth: <ul><li>Overpaid, Oversexed and Over There </li><li>Nothing is Real </li><li>Uncommon People </li></ul></li></ul> And of course......  <ul><li>Mr Robert Dimery's “1001 Albums You Must Hear before You Die” (2021) </li></ul> Magazines <ul><li>Mojo - print and on-line </li><li>Classic Rock - on line </li><li>Far Out - on line</li></ul> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1F0sijgNaJdgit?si=04b45a75ea2c40bd" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Mick and the Phatman 2022 Spotify Playlist</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/6mib3N4E8PZHAGQ3xy7bho?si=65a314ce4fe64196" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Moonage or MoonAge: You decide.</a>

A Tale of Two Seasons

Midnight Oil ("The Oils") are one of Australia's most-loved bands.  Their solid political streak – Indigenous rights, the environment and nuclear disarmament, to name a few – sits well with a hard-earned reputation for red-hot live shows. Mick and Jeff look back at all the times they’ve seen Midnight Oil live, and the impact their music has had on Australian culture.  Jeff’s Rant introduces us  to Beard Meats Food, a young bearded lad who consumes huge meals live on YouTube.  It's been a great month for terrific live concerts, with The Sisters of Mercy, The Underground Lovers and The Pixies all playing in Sydney.  We'll talk about all those shows, as well as a guy called Harry Manx, who offers a blend of  blues, folk music, and Hindustani music. Today’s Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “Ghosteen” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds (2019).  This critically-acclaimed double album is so different to his earlier music, but still definitely Cave.   Beard Meats FoodEpisode Playlist

Midnight Oil ("The Oils") are one of Australia's most-loved bands.  Their solid political streak – Indigenous rights, the environment and nuclear disarmament, to name a few – sits well with a hard-earned reputation for red-hot live shows. Mick and Jeff look back at all the times they’ve seen Midnight Oil live, and the impact their music has had on Australian culture.  Jeff’s Rant introduces us  to Beard Meats Food, a young bearded lad who consumes huge meals live on <a href="https://youtu.be/RBbx917qfH8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube.</a>  It's been a great month for terrific live concerts, with The Sisters of Mercy, The Underground Lovers and The Pixies all playing in Sydney.  We'll talk about all those shows, as well as a guy called Harry Manx, who offers a blend of  <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blues" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">blues</a>, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Folk_music" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">folk music</a>, and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindustani_classical_music" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hindustani music.</a> Today’s Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “Ghosteen” by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds (2019).  This critically-acclaimed double album is so different to his earlier music, but still definitely Cave.    <a href="https://youtu.be/RBbx917qfH8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Beard Meats Food</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/36ug1PxqO6mHEFVNygHgv4?si=450fde6d28d64558" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode Playlist</a>

Midnight Oil - A fabulous mix of politics and music

Joe Cocker was a staple of the rock world for around 50 years. His career took off with two songs gifted him by The Beatles (“She Came in Through the Bathroom Window”, “With A Little Help from My Friends”) and a brilliant cover of The Box Tops’ “The Letter”, and was almost destroyed by the "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour, album and film.    This week’s “Album You Must Listen to Before You Die” is “Juju” by Siouxsie and the Banshees. This outstanding 1981 work is celebrated as a Gothic masterpiece. Siouxsie’s sonorous voice contrasts with John McGeoch’s wonderful guitar weaving a tapestry through a huge rhythm section.    Jeff has a rant about the humble pogo stick gaining new life as a 21st Century mode of travel, while Mick talks about “Trainwreck” - a documentary about the disaster that was Woodstock ‘99, a poorly-planned festival meant to celebrate the original Woodstock.  A lot to cover in an hour! Extreme PogoJoe Cocker Playlist

Joe Cocker was a staple of the rock world for around 50 years. His career took off with two songs gifted him by The Beatles (“She Came in Through the Bathroom Window”, “With A Little Help from My Friends”) and a brilliant cover of The Box Tops’ “The Letter”, and was almost destroyed by the "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour, album and film.    This week’s “Album You Must Listen to Before You Die” is “Juju” by Siouxsie and the Banshees. This outstanding 1981 work is celebrated as a Gothic masterpiece. Siouxsie’s sonorous voice contrasts with John McGeoch’s wonderful guitar weaving a tapestry through a huge rhythm section.    Jeff has a rant about the humble pogo stick gaining new life as a 21st Century mode of travel, while Mick talks about “Trainwreck” - a documentary about the disaster that was Woodstock ‘99, a poorly-planned festival meant to celebrate the original Woodstock.  A lot to cover in an hour!  <a href="https://youtu.be/swFhZyvjxik" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Extreme Pogo</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7AzBHP4GKA3owG1jpt8wkp?si=322c783981374a86" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Joe Cocker Playlist</a>

Joe Cocker - "I don't expect to live through this"

The Go-Betweens were a great Aussie band of the 80’s - they wrote erudite world-weary songs about life and their loves with zilch success for their efforts.  Their style, a mix of Velvet Underground's 3rd album’s gritty simplicity, Bob Dylan’s narrative skills and Television’s clear production highlighting guitar never brought them the success that their talent deserved. We did, though, find a fan from Dublin with an extraordinary appreciation of the Go-Betweens. We look at some emails we’ve received, including Rein who remembers Countdown, and note the comments from comedian Bill Bailey, who is less than complimentary about Coldplay!   Our Album You Must Hear before You Die” this time around is “Parallel Lines” by Blondie.  A great album from 1978, with a couple of surprise Aussie connections. The PlaylistFacebook  Instagram mickandthephatman@gmail.com 

The Go-Betweens were a great Aussie band of the 80’s - they wrote erudite world-weary songs about life and their loves with zilch success for their efforts.  Their style, a mix of Velvet Underground's 3rd album’s gritty simplicity, Bob Dylan’s narrative skills and Television’s clear production highlighting guitar never brought them the success that their talent deserved. We did, though, find a fan from Dublin with an extraordinary appreciation of the Go-Betweens. We look at some emails we’ve received, including Rein who remembers Countdown, and note the comments from comedian Bill Bailey, who is less than complimentary about Coldplay!   Our Album You Must Hear before You Die” this time around is “Parallel Lines” by Blondie.  A great album from 1978, with a couple of surprise Aussie connections. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3bOeDDDaQJ8SLAmZgJco0N?si=828c73b07710432b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Playlist</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mick-and-the-Phatman-Talking-Music-104246385065739" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook </a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mick_and_the_phatman/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram </a><a href="mailto:mickandthephatman@gmail.com">mickandthephatman@gmail.com</a>

The Go Betweens - Another Great Aussie Band

It’s easy to miss some fabulous music for one reason or another.  The boys this week talk about some great stuff that never quite bothered the charts.  Groups like Ultravox!, Echo &amp; The Bunnymen, The Godfathers, Magazine, Death in Vegas and The Sisters of Mercy offer you something a little bit different that you may have missed first time around.  This week’s Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “Go Girl Crazy” by The Dictators, while Mick has some more to say about “Leaves Me Blind”, the 1992 masterpiece by Australia's The Underground Lovers.   After Jeff’s sweary rant last time about emails, we’ve got some!  Ian wants us to do more unhinged raves, and Pete wants to give us his own Aussie supergroup.   We think you’ll love it! Playlist

It’s easy to miss some fabulous music for one reason or another.  The boys this week talk about some great stuff that never quite bothered the charts.  Groups like Ultravox!, Echo &amp; The Bunnymen, The Godfathers, Magazine, Death in Vegas and The Sisters of Mercy offer you something a little bit different that you may have missed first time around.  This week’s Album You Must Hear Before You Die is “Go Girl Crazy” by The Dictators, while Mick has some more to say about “Leaves Me Blind”, the 1992 masterpiece by Australia's The Underground Lovers.   After Jeff’s sweary rant last time about emails, we’ve got some!  Ian wants us to do more unhinged raves, and Pete wants to give us his own Aussie supergroup.   We think you’ll love it! <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3KBxjnPtY1a55dhamFFYKN?si=030b4b3df4074ada" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Playlist</a>

Some great music you might have missed

Something a little different for you this episode, as we return from our mid-season break. How many times have you been in the discussion “Who’s the best guitarist/singer/drummer/etc”?  We’ve taken that discussion one step further and taken all our favourites and put them together into one HUGE supergroup. Only one rule:  Anybody selected must be alive – that rules out Hendrix as lead guitarist! As you’d expect, Jeff has to take it one step too far and organises an all-star catering team to look after refreshments on our first world tour!    Our album you “must hear before you die” this week, is Roxy Music’s first album, “Roxy Music”.  It’s a cracker! Remember to subscribe – it costs you nothing Follow us on Facebook – “Mick and the Phatman” - and Instagram Hit us up on our email: MickandthePhatman@Gmail.com 

Something a little different for you this episode, as we return from our mid-season break. How many times have you been in the discussion “Who’s the best guitarist/singer/drummer/etc”?  We’ve taken that discussion one step further and taken all our favourites and put them together into one HUGE supergroup. Only one rule:  Anybody selected must be alive – that rules out Hendrix as lead guitarist! As you’d expect, Jeff has to take it one step too far and organises an all-star catering team to look after refreshments on our first world tour!    Our album you “must hear before you die” this week, is Roxy Music’s first album, “Roxy Music”.  It’s a cracker!  Remember to subscribe – it costs you nothing  Follow us on Facebook – “Mick and the Phatman” - and Instagram  Hit us up on our email: <a href="mailto:MickandthePhatman@Gmail.com">MickandthePhatman@Gmail.com</a>

We created our own supergroup

Genesis Redone  The 2021 COVID lockdowns meant we couldn’t get together to record.  This really impacted the sound quality on a couple of episodes, particularly the one about Genesis (Season 1 Ep 15) So, we’ve re-recorded that episode.  The key facts are the same, but because our podcasts are a conversation and we don’t work from a tight script, it’s basically a new episode.  If you've listened to the original episode already, you might like to see how different this one is.  We think you’ll be impressed.   *************Genesis is regarded by many as one of the most exceptional bands ever produced by England, and never better than their 5-man line-up in the early 70’s.  Both Genesis and Steve Hackett completed COVID-delayed tours this year, so it's a great time to discover (or remember!) some of the finest music you'll ever encounter.   In particular, we talk about two sublime albums, Selling England by the Pound, and The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.   “Selling England......” contains “Firth of Fifth”, a 9-minute-long ensemble piece with fluid guitar, delicate piano &amp; synth parts, flute &amp; vocal pieces, underpinned by a strong rhythm section in Phil Collins and Mike Rutherford.  It's regarded by many to be the finest single work by Genesis!   The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, regarded by Genesis fans as their best complete work, is a complex story targeted at the US, with many American cultural references mixed with mythical and supernatural elements. It contains both their most delicate AND hard-edged pieces, still sounding fresh decades later.   *************************  Oh, by the way, we’re taking a short break to travel around Australia. We'll be back with a bunch of new episodes on October 16.  Stay with us – there's some great stuff coming up!    References:  Genesis, Selling England by the Pound, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, Ramones, Mr Mercedes, Rick Rubin, Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Steve Hackett, David Bowie, Elton John, Brian Eno "Pet Sematary" - The Ramones - from Mr MercedesGenesis PlayListEggSteve Hackett Firth of FifthSledgehammer - Peter Gabriel (awesome film clip)

Genesis Redone The 2021 COVID lockdowns meant we couldn’t get together to record.  This really impacted the sound quality on a couple of episodes, particularly the one about Genesis (Season 1 Ep 15) So, we’ve re-recorded that episode.  The key facts are the same, but because our podcasts are a conversation and we don’t work from a tight script, it’s basically a new episode.  If you've listened to the original episode already, you might like to see how different this one is.  We think you’ll be impressed.   ************* Genesis is regarded by many as one of the most exceptional bands ever produced by England, and never better than their 5-man line-up in the early 70’s.  Both Genesis and Steve Hackett completed COVID-delayed tours this year, so it's a great time to discover (or remember!) some of the finest music you'll ever encounter.  In particular, we talk about two sublime albums, Selling England by the Pound, and The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway.   “Selling England......” contains “Firth of Fifth”, a 9-minute-long ensemble piece with fluid guitar, delicate piano &amp; synth parts, flute &amp; vocal pieces, underpinned by a strong rhythm section in Phil Collins and Mike Rutherford.  It's regarded by many to be the finest single work by Genesis!   The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, regarded by Genesis fans as their best complete work, is a complex story targeted at the US, with many American cultural references mixed with mythical and supernatural elements. It contains both their most delicate AND hard-edged pieces, still sounding fresh decades later.   *************************  Oh, by the way, we’re taking a short break to travel around Australia. We'll be back with a bunch of new episodes on October 16.  Stay with us – there's some great stuff coming up!  References:  Genesis, Selling England by the Pound, The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway, Ramones, Mr Mercedes, Rick Rubin, Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Steve Hackett, David Bowie, Elton John, Brian Eno <a href="https://www.televisiontunes.com/Mr_Mercedes___Ramones___Pet_Sematary.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">"Pet Sematary" - The Ramones - from Mr Mercedes </a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5CziTRGpOEopk6l89dxjsu?si=912ba08d4b6c4ea6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Genesis PlayList</a> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DbEZLoDKZIJlSLeOIc40U?si=ZXGhQ6UWT5CUOWqeXepJuw&amp;dl_branch=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Egg</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/RCnzDy2tSk0%20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steve Hackett Firth of Fifth</a> <a href="https://www.google.com/search?gs_ssp=eJzj4tFP1zcsNjAtSyqqLDRg9OIpzklNSU_NSMzNTS0CAIFnCY4&amp;q=sledgehammer&amp;oq=sledge&amp;aqs=chrome.1.0i131i355i433i512j46i131i433i512j69i57j0i131i433i512j0i512j0i131i433i512j0i512l2j46i175i199i512j0i512.3807j0j4&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sledgehammer - Peter Gabriel (awesome film clip)</a>

Genesis Redone

Mick and the PhatMan Talking Music

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