Backwards Beats Podcast

I Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight - Richard & Linda Thompson (#485)

In this episode, Dan and Carl dive deep into I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight, the 1974 debut collaborative album by British folk-rock icons Richard and Linda Thompson. The duo explores the album's rich musical textures, varied instrumentation, and emotional range, offering technical insight and personal reactions. From Celtic-tinged folk ballads to moody rock moments, the album’s instrumentation (featuring mandolins, tin whistles, crumhorns, and concertinas) celebrates diverse timbres and musical ambition.
Carl shares the surprising story behind his family’s connection to vinyl needle manufacturing, while Dan breaks down modal scales like Mixolydian and Phrygian with real-time examples. The hosts unpack the slow-burning melancholy of tracks like “Withered and Died,” the pub-ready energy of “We Sing Hallelujah,” and the absolute musical brilliance of “The Great Valerio.”
Key Points
Album Context: Released in 1974 on Island Records; Richard and Linda Thompson's first official album as a duo.
Genre Blending: A fusion of British folk, country, and folk-rock with inventive instrumentation and experimental production choices.
Thematic Core: Recurring themes include disillusionment, longing, loneliness, and spiritual searching.
Instrument Highlights: Features unique folk instruments like the crumbhorn, concertina, and tin whistle, alongside rich guitar textures and vintage electric piano tones.
Music Referenced
Fairport Convention
Gary Rafferty
Lil Wayne
Anthrax
Bob Dylan
Joan Baez
Joni Mitchell
Courtney Love
Joan Jett
Ann Wilson
Heart
Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin
Nancy Wilson
Jason Bonham
John Bonham
Funeral by Arcade Fire
Backseat by Arcade Fire
Blueberry Hill
Yellow by Coldplay
Hocus Pocus by Focus
I'll Be Around by The Spinners
This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody) by Talking Heads
Closer by The Chainsmokers
AC/DC
Grateful Dead
Creep by Radiohead
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
Nick of Time by Bonnie Raitt
Kurt Cobain
Stone Temple Pilots
Nirvana
Together Again by Buck Owens
Malagueña by Roy Clark
Vince Gill
Herbie Hancock
Steely Dan
Cool and the Gang
Black Midi
Lewis Cole
Mars Volta
Periphery
Rush
King Crimson
Join us next week when we cover Born This Way by Lady Gaga

Continuum - John Mayer (#486)

Overview
In Episode 15, Dan and Carl finally hit a record they both adore—John Mayer’s Continuum, ranked #486 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. The fanboying is real, but so is the deep analysis. This episode covers Mayer’s transition from pop darling to a serious blues craftsman, from subtle production choices to guitar tone breakdowns and harmony dives. With legendary players like Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino, Continuum serves up soulful grooves, emotional depth, and masterful songwriting.
Key Points
Personal Bias Admitted: Dan and Carl are massive fans of Continuum—this is one of their “desert island” albums.
Mayer’s Career Shift: Discussion of Mayer’s evolution from Room for Squares pop fame to a blues-rooted, emotionally introspective artist.
The Trio Effect: Deep appreciation for the influence of the John Mayer Trio (with Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino) on this record’s vibe.
Guitar Tone & Production: Praise for Steve Jordan’s dry snares, Mayer’s tasteful guitar phrasing, and Charlie Hunter’s influence.
Lyrical Depth: Songs like “Belief” and “Gravity” reveal Mayer’s internal struggles, philosophical reflection, and social commentary.
Theory Corner Highlights: Dan breaks down modal shifts, bridge tricks, and harmonic depth in “Gravity” and “Stop This Train.”
Emotional Arc: The album’s track list flows through apathy, introspection, fame fatigue, relationship collapse, and hard-won wisdom.
Music Referenced
Room for Squares by John Mayer
Heavier Things by John Mayer
Battle Studies by John Mayer
Born and Raised by John Mayer
The Search for Everything by John Mayer
Try! by John Mayer
Your Body Is a Wonderland by John Mayer
Daughters by John Mayer
Steve Ray Vaughan
Jimi Hendrix
Burn One Down by Ben Harper
Steal My Kisses by Ben Harper
Charlie Hunter
Voodoo by D'Angelo
Bonnie Raitt
Coldplay
Chris Martin
Never Gonna Be Alone by Jacob Collier
Lizzy McAlpine
I've Got Dreams to Remember by Otis Redding
What I Am by Edie Brickell
Stay Awhile by Edie Brickell
More Than Words by Extreme
Jack Black
On Bended Knee by Boyz II Men
Adele
Satellite by Dave Matthews Band
Lindsey Buckingham
Stevie Nicks
Simon & Garfunkel
Paul Simon
Peter Gabriel
Nuno Bettencourt
Anita Baker
James Taylor
Stevie Nicks
Billy Joel
Sting
Snarky Puppy
Crazy by Gnarls Barkley
Jennifer Love Hewitt
Jessica Simpson
Join us next week when we cover I Want To See The Bright LIghts Tonight by Richard and Linda Thompson
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Damaged by Black Flag (#487)

In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Black Flag's ferocious 1981 debut, Damaged — an album that defines hardcore punk with raw energy, cathartic aggression, and DIY ethos. Coming in at #487 on Rolling Stone's list, Damaged is an iconic record that helped shape the sound and spirit of American punk. The guys also kick things off by recapping their weekend trip to the GroundUP Music Festival in Miami and all the incredible artists they encountered.
Key Points
🎶 Punk Iconography: Damaged is discussed as a landmark hardcore punk record with a gritty visual and sonic aesthetic — from its cover art to its aggressive sound and anti-establishment themes.
🎤 Band Origins & Lineup Shifts: Formed in 1976 as Panic, Black Flag underwent several member changes before Damaged, with early members like Keith Morris (later of Circle Jerks) and the arrival of Henry Rollins.
🧠 Greg Ginn & DIY Spirit: Founding guitarist Greg Ginn created SST Records to independently release Black Flag’s music, setting a precedent for punk labels and the underground music scene.
📚 Cultural Commentary: The band’s art and lyrics often critique societal norms, domestic life, and conformity — giving Damaged a raw, confrontational stance.
🥁 Musical Style: Fast, furious, and over in 35 minutes — the album exemplifies hardcore punk: stripped-down production, relentless tempo, and emotional outbursts.
🌀 Descent into Madness: From the rebellious intro "Rise Above," the arc of the album slowly becomes darker and more self-absorbed until the traumatic finale of "Damaged I"
🏝️ GroundUP Music Festival Recap: Carl and Dan share highlights from the Miami festival hosted by Snarky Puppy, including performances by Eric Gales, Bill Frisell, John Scofield, and more.
Music Referenced
Snarky Poppy
Eric Gales
Bill Fruzel
John Scofield
Madison McFarron
Never mind the bollocks by Sex Pistols
Misfits
Hüsker Dü
Sonic Youth
Minutemen
Circle Jerks
Bon Jovi
Fugazi
Minor Threat
True colors by Cindy Lauper
Ornette Coleman
Ed Sheeran
Aja by Steely Dan
Bodhisattva by Steely Dan
Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables by Dead Kennedys
In God We Trust by Dead Kennedys
Ill in the Head by Dead Kennedys
Nazi Punks Fuck Off by Dead Kennedys
Fits Like a Glove by Kiss
Seek & Destroy by Metallica
Rage Against the Machine
Fuck the Police by NWA
The Doors
The Urge
Urge Overkill
Superman by Goldfinger
Crucial Bar-B-Q by Murphy's Law
Manic Depression by King's X
Manic Depression by Jimi Hendrix
Join us next week when we discuss album 486, Continuum by John Mayer

The Stooges by the Stooges (#488)

This week, Dan and Carl dive into the raw and rebellious energy of The Stooges’ self-titled 1969 debut. A proto-punk classic that laid the foundation for punk and garage rock, this album is as chaotic as it is influential. From Iggy Pop’s unhinged vocals to Ron Asheton’s sludgy guitar riffs, we break down why this record was both ahead of its time and completely out of control.
Key Points
Background & Context – The late 60s rock scene, the rise of punk influences, and how The Stooges fit into the era.
Album Breakdown – Track-by-track discussion, including the hypnotic repetition of We Will Fall and the raw power of I Wanna Be Your Dog.
Production & Sound – John Cale’s role in shaping the album’s sound and how it differs from later Stooges releases.
Legacy & Influence – How The Stooges paved the way for punk, influencing everyone from the Sex Pistols to Nirvana.
Would You Hit It? – Do we think this album still holds up, or is it just a messy relic of the past?
Music Referenced
The Stooges by The Stooges
Fun House by The Stooges
Raw Power by The Stooges
Iggy Pop
The Doors by The Doors
Slipknot
Marilyn Manson
Velvet Underground
Jimi Hendrix
New York Dolls
Ozzy Osbourne
Chapell Roan
Rihanna
Rolling Stones
Youth and Young Manhood by Kings of Leon
Here, My Dear by Marvin Gaye
Bonnie Raitt
Never Mind the Bollocks by Sex Pistols
Ramones
Kurt Cobain
Little Richard
Metallica
The Beatles
I Kill Children by Dead Kennedys
Mother's Milk by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Suicidal Tendencies
Drunk by Thunder Cat
 
Contact Us
Share Your Thoughts: Email us at backwardsbeatspodcast@gmail.com
Join us next week when we cover album 487: Damaged by Black Flag

Back to Mono by Phil Spector (#489)

In this episode, Dan and Carl dive into Back to Mono (1958-1969), a massive 73-song compilation produced by Phil Spector. The duo discusses the challenges of covering such an extensive box set, the impact of the "Wall of Sound" production style, and how Spector’s legacy complicates the album’s place on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Instead of focusing on Spector, they highlight the incredible artists featured on this compilation, including The Ronettes, The Righteous Brothers, and Darlene Love.
Key Points
The Wall of Sound – How Phil Spector’s signature production style shaped 1960s pop music and why it works (or doesn’t) for certain songs.
Spector’s Legacy – The controversy surrounding Phil Spector and how Rolling Stone drastically changed the album’s ranking over the years.
Artist Highlights – Deep dives into standout performances from The Crystals, The Righteous Brothers, Tina Turner, and more.
Unchained Melody Stands Above – Why Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers remains an all-time classic and one of the best vocal performances ever recorded.
Obscure Gems & Oddities – Hidden gems like Pretty Little Angel Eyes by Curtis Lee and unusual tracks like He Hit Me (And It Felt Like a Kiss) by The Crystals.
Phil Spector’s Christmas Influence – A discussion of how A Christmas Gift for You shaped holiday music, featuring Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by Darlene Love.
Too Much of a Good Thing? – Does this compilation truly belong on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums list, or is it a historical artifact?
Music Referenced
With the Beatles by The Beatles
Hold Me Tight by The Beatles
Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys
A Christmas Gift for You by Bing Crosby
Michael Bublé
Elvis Presley
Frankie Valli
Mexico by James Taylor
Have a Good Time by Paul Simon
Heartbreaker by Pat Benatar
Love Gun by Kiss
Then She Kissed Me by Kiss
Then She Kissed Me by Gary Glitter
I Will Always Love You by Whitney Houston
Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by U2
Take Me Home Tonight by Eddie Money
Under the Boardwalk by The Drifters
Save the Last Dance for Me by The Drifters
Grease Soundtrack (The Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Shanana
Grease Soundtrack (The Motion Picture Soundtrack) by Olivia Newton-John
Happy Xmas (War Is Over) by John Lennon
Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney
Last Christmas by Wham!
Join us next week when we cover album 488, The Stooges, by The Stooges

Heart Like A Wheel by Linda Ronstadt (#490)

In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl take a deep dive into Heart Like a Wheel, Linda Ronstadt’s 1974 breakthrough album. They explore Ronstadt’s immense vocal talent, her impact on the Southern California music scene, and her impressive ability to cross musical genres. With a mix of country, rock, and pop influences, Heart Like a Wheel cemented Ronstadt’s place as a powerhouse in the music industry. Dan and Carl also discuss the album’s historical significance, standout tracks, and how it stacks up against other classic records.
Key Points
Linda Ronstadt’s Background: Born in 1946 in Tucson, Arizona, Ronstadt grew up surrounded by music, heavily influenced by her father’s love of traditional Mexican songs.
Formation of The Eagles: Ronstadt played a key role in the early careers of Don Henley, Glenn Frey, and other Eagles members, as they were originally part of her backing band.
Covers Done Right: Heart Like a Wheel is an album of covers that showcases Ronstadt’s ability to reinterpret and elevate existing material with stunning vocal precision.
Biggest Hits:
You're No Good – A dark and moody classic that kicks off the album with a bang.
When Will I Be Loved – A high-energy Everly Brothers cover that brings a needed boost to the second half of the album.
It Doesn't Matter Anymore – A heartfelt take on the Buddy Holly classic.
Willin’ – A beautiful, hypnotic rendition of the Little Feat song, rumored to be tied to a personal connection with Lowell George.
Notable Musicians and Contributions:
Background vocals by Sissy Houston (mother of Whitney Houston) on Dark End of the Street.
Instrumental features by Sneaky Pete Kleinow (pedal steel), Andrew Gold (piano, guitar), and Emmylou Harris (harmonies on I Can’t Help It If I’m Still in Love with You).
Album produced by Peter Asher, also known for his work with James Taylor and Bonnie Raitt.
Production Quality: A mostly clean and warm production, though some arrangements (such as the title track) stand out stylistically from the rest of the album.
Final Verdict: Heart Like a Wheel is an incredibly listenable album, full of fantastic musicianship and timeless vocal performances. Dan and Carl both agree: They would hit it!
Music Referenced
The Eagles
Van Halen II by Van Halen
You're No Good by Van Halen
It Doesn't Matter Anymore by Buddy Holly
It Doesn't Matter Anymore by Paul Anka
When Will I Be Loved by The Everly Brothers
Willin' by Little Feat
Willin' by Lowell George
I Can't Help It (If I'm Still in Love with You) by Hank Williams
You Can Close Your Eyes by James Taylor
Frank Zappa
Sissy Houston
Whitney Houston
Andrew Gold
Emmylou Harris
Peter Asher
Bonnie Raitt
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Join us next week as we take on Back to Mono (1958-1969) by Phil Spector and Various Artists!

Harry's House by Harry Styles (#491)

In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Harry Styles’ 2022 album Harry’s House. But not before they confess to accidentally reviewing the wrong Harry Styles album first — because why make it easy? Along the way, they unpack Harry’s House track by track, dive into Harry’s evolution from One Direction heartthrob to solo superstar, and discover just how many legends quietly contributed to this pop powerhouse.
Key Points
The Great Mix-Up: Dan and Carl originally reviewed Fine Line by mistake — that episode’s coming later as bonus content.
About the Album: Released in 2022, Harry’s House blends synth-pop, 80s callbacks, and modern production across 13 tracks.
Production Powerhouse: Produced by Kid Harpoon, Tyler Johnson, and Samuel Witte, with session players like Pino Palladino and surprise guitar work from John Mayer.
Standout Tracks: From the quirky funk of Music for a Sushi Restaurant to the emotional gut punch of Matilda, Dan and Carl debate their favorites — and agree surprisingly often.
80s Influence: Expect callbacks to Prince, The Cure, Todd Rundgren, and even a dash of Daft Punk.
The Tuna Incident: Carl’s infamous pre-gig sushi disaster resurfaces, because raw fish always comes back to haunt you.
Music Referenced
Luck of the Draw by Bonnie Raitt
Fleetwood Mac
Music by 311
Homebrew by 311
311 (The Blue Album) by 311
Down by 311
All Mixed Up by 311
Stop This Train by John Mayer
Shania Twain
I Can't Go for That by Daryl Hall & John Oates
Take Me to the River by Talking Heads
Werewolves of London by Warren Zevon
All Summer Long by Kid Rock
Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits
David Crosby
Graham Nash
Family Dinner - Volume 1 by Snarky Puppy
Family Dinner - Volume 2 by Snarky Puppy
Something by Snarky Puppy
Lalah Hathaway
On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
Turn the Page by Bob Seger
Turn the Page by Metallica
Herbie Hancock
Prelude to a Kiss by Duke Ellington
Walking on Broken Glass by Annie Lennox
Here Comes the Rain Again by The Eurythmics
Sting
Jacob Collier
Join us next week where we cover the album Heart Like a Wheel by Linda Ronstadt

Nick of Time by Bonnie Raitt (#492)

In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Bonnie Raitt’s Nick of Time, a landmark album that was her breakthrough after years in the industry. They explore the album’s unique blend of blues, country, folk, and soft rock, discuss the impact of its production, and highlight some of its most compelling musical moments. Along the way, they touch on Bonnie Raitt’s career resilience, her Scottish ancestry (including a chilling ghost story), and her influence on modern Americana.
Key Points
Bonnie Raitt’s Career Arc – How *Nick of Time marked her mainstream breakthrough after a decade of persistence.
*Production & Sound – The album features three distinct production styles, from polished soft rock to raw, intimate blues.
Musical Deep Dives* – Dan breaks down the harmonic sophistication of the title track and how the arrangement reinforces the song’s storytelling.
The Mystery of the 500 List – Dan and Carl debate why Nick of Time made Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums list, while Luck of the Draw, her more commercially successful follow-up, did not.
Debora Harry singing Duke Ellington's Prelude to a Kiss
Annie Lennox singing Cole Porter's Every Time We Say Goodbye
Music Referenced
Luck of the Draw by Bonnie Raitt
Fleetwood Mac
Music by 311
Homebrew by 311
311 (The Blue Album) by 311
Down by 311
All Mixed Up by 311
Stop This Train by John Mayer
Shania Twain
I Can't Go for That by Daryl Hall & John Oates
Take Me to the River by Talking Heads
Werewolves of London by Warren Zevon
All Summer Long by Kid Rock
Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits
David Crosby
Graham Nash
Family Dinner - Volume 1 by Snarky Puppy
Family Dinner - Volume 2 by Snarky Puppy
Something by Snarky Puppy
Lalah Hathaway
On the Road Again by Willie Nelson
Turn the Page by Bob Seger
Turn the Page by Metallica
Herbie Hancock
Prelude to a Kiss by Duke Ellington
Walking on Broken Glass by Annie Lennox
Here Comes the Rain Again by The Eurythmics
Sting
Jacob Collier
Join Us Next Week
Join us next week when we discuss Harry's House by Harry Styles.

Here, My Dear by Marvin Gaye (#493)

In this episode, Dan and Carl take on Here, My Dear, Marvin Gaye’s 1978 album that Rolling Stone ranks at #492 on its 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. This record, infamous for being written as part of Gaye’s divorce settlement, is one of the most personal and emotionally raw works in music history. But does that make it good? The guys grapple with their conflicted feelings, breaking down the album’s unique concept, unfiltered lyrics, and unconventional production.
Key Points
Marvin Gaye’s Legacy – A look at Gaye’s legendary career and why this album stands apart from his greatest hits.
A Divorce Album Like No Other – How Here, My Dear was written to pay off Gaye’s alimony and became an intensely personal diary of heartbreak.
Musical Experimentation or Mess? – A deep dive into the album’s unconventional song structures, meandering melodies, and unusual production choices.
Rolling Stone, Are You Sure? – Why this album’s placement on the 500 Greatest Albums list is questionable.
 
Music Referenced
Let's Get It On by Marvin Gaye
Sexual Healing by Marvin Gaye
Ain't No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye
I Want You by Marvin Gaye
Soon I'll Be Loving You Again by Marvin Gaye
Come Live With Me Angel by Marvin Gaye
Distant Lover by Marvin Gaye
Tammi Terrell
Face Value by Phil Collins
In the Air Tonight by Phil Collins
The Police
Stop Loving Me, Stop Loving You by Daryl Hall
Joey Dosik
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Jack Conti
Ryan Lerman
Scary Pockets
Vulfpeck
Jimi Hendrix
Move On Up by Curtis Mayfield
 
Come back next week when we dig into Nick Of Time by Bonnie Raitt.

Presenting the Ronettes (#494)

In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl take a deep dive into Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes Featuring Veronica, the only album released by the legendary girl group The Ronettes. From Phil Spector’s infamous Wall of Sound to the tragic personal struggles of Ronnie Spector, the duo explores the album’s history, production, and cultural impact. Along the way, they discuss its influence on artists like Bruce Springsteen, Amy Winehouse, and Brian Wilson, and share their candid opinions on whether this album is a true classic or a relic of its time.
Key Points
The Ronettes' Origins: A family act turned pop sensation, featuring sisters Veronica (Ronnie) and Estelle Bennett, along with cousin Nedra Talley.
Phil Spector’s Influence: The album’s signature Wall of Sound production—how it shaped the music and why it might not hold up today.
Behind the Scenes: The dark reality of Phil Spector’s control over Ronnie Spector, from their relationship to legal battles over royalties.
Iconic Tracks:
Be My Baby – The definitive Ronettes song, massively influential, and a personal obsession of Brian Wilson.
Baby, I Love You – Featuring background vocals from none other than Sonny & Cher.
Chapel of Love – A song most people recognize, though it was ultimately a bigger hit for The Dixie Cups.
 
 
Music Referenced
The Rolling Stones
Let It Be by The Beatles
The Long and Winding Road by The Beatles
Rainbow Bridge by Jimi Hendrix
Earth Blues by Jimi Hendrix-
Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen
Dancing in the Dark by Bruce Springsteen
Back to Black by Amy Winehouse
Don't Worry Baby by Brian Wilson
What I'd Say by Ray Charles- The Beach Boys
You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin' by The Righteous Brothers
Ike & Tina Turner
My Sweet Lord by George Harrison
Darlene Love
Dion
Frankie Valli
Chapel of Love by The Dixie Cups
Take Me Home Tonight by Eddie Money
Cher
I've Got You Babe by Sonny & Cher
Runaway by Del Shannon
Just Like Honey by The Jesus and Mary Chain
All Born Screaming by Saint Vincent
Roxanne by The Police
 
Tune in next week when we discuss Here my Dear by Marvin Gaye