Backwards Beats Podcast

II by Boyz II Men (#495)

 
Welcome to Episode 6 of the Backwards Beats Podcast! This week, Dan and Carl dive into II by Boyz II Men, an R&B masterpiece from the 90s. They explore the album's highlights, discuss its nostalgic impact, and debate whether it holds up today. From middle school dance memories to deep dives into harmonies and production quirks, this episode is a must-listen for fans of vocal perfection and 90s vibes.
Key Points
Album Background:II is Boyz II Men’s sophomore album, released in 1994, featuring hits like "I’ll Make Love to You" and "On Bended Knee." It was a commercial juggernaut, achieving double diamond status with over 20 million copies sold.
Production Notes:The album's production showcases polished brilliance and some dated choices, blending hip-hop influences with classic R&B harmonies. Babyface's involvement shines on standout tracks like "Water Runs Dry."
Key Tracks:
Thank You: A high-energy opener showcasing their vocal prowess.
Water Runs Dry: The unanimous favorite, a beautifully orchestrated ballad with live strings and a timeless message.
Yesterday: An acapella rendition of The Beatles’ classic, displaying their raw vocal talent.
Khalil: A heartfelt interlude marking a thematic turning point in the album.
Critical Reflections:While II boasts undeniable vocal excellence, some tracks, like "All Around the World" and "Trying Times," falter due to overproduction or repetitiveness. The album struggles to transcend its era in certain moments but remains essential for its highlights.
Music Referenced
Michael Bivins
Poison by Bell Biv DeVoe
New Edition
Still Loving You by Scorpions
Wind of Change by Scorpions
Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin
My Lovin' (You're Never Gonna Get It) by En Vogue
Purple Rain by Prince
The Symbol Album by Prince
Darling Nikki by Prince
Songs About Jane by Maroon 5
This Is How We Do It by Montell Jordan
Return of the Mack by Mark Morrison
Ready or Not by The Fugees
Brandy
Mýa
Nobody by Keith Sweat
Candy Rain by Soul for Real
Hall & Oates
Yesterday by The Beatles
Young Americans by David Bowie
I've Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash
Kissin' Time by Bobby Rydell
Kissin' Time by Kiss
I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston
Barry White
LL Cool J
Believe by Cher
Elton John
Dua Lipa
T-Pain
Carl Orff
Concrete Gold by Foo Fighters
Join us next week when we dig into Presenting The Fabulous Ronnettes Featuring Veronica
 
Hosts: Carl Pfanstiehl and Dan Woodard
Recorded at: Thought Shack Studio
Release Date: February 11, 2025
Rank: 496

Shakira - Dónde Están Los Ladrones (#496)

Dan and Carl explore Shakira's groundbreaking 1998 album "Dónde Están los Ladrones?" in this episode. This record, often overshadowed by her later global hits, showcases a raw, authentic side of Shakira that marries Latin American roots with rock influences and poignant storytelling. Join us as we unpack the artistry behind an album that solidified her as a global icon and continues to resonate decades later.
📀 Album Highlights
Breakthrough Roots: While not Shakira’s commercial debut, this album represents a pivotal moment in her career. It propelled her from Latin America’s rising star to a globally recognized artist, blending Spanish-language lyrics with rock-driven production.
Authentic Voice: Unlike the overproduced pop personas often marketed to Western audiences, this album showcases Shakira’s vocal prowess, musical versatility, and cultural authenticity. No English lyrics here—just pure storytelling and powerful melodies.
Musical Influences: The album draws on everything from 90s alternative rock to traditional Latin rhythms, with nods to artists like Alanis Morissette and even subtle Shania Twain vibes in its arrangements.
Instrumentation and Production: Expect rich, analog sounds—real instruments, warm amplifiers, and even a vintage German microphone lending texture to the production. Shakira’s live band adds depth rarely seen in late-90s pop.
🌟 Tracks to Note
"Ciega Soromuda": A bold opener with mariachi-inspired horns transitioning into a danceable rhythm, setting the tone for the album’s dynamic blend of genres.
"Inevitable": One of the album’s standout ballads, with nearly 400 million Spotify streams, blending heartfelt lyrics with lush instrumentation, including a B3 organ.
"Octavo Día": A grunge-inspired track with a thought-provoking narrative about God’s disillusionment with humanity—a deep cut that showcases Shakira’s lyrical boldness. Is there a connection between this song and Forgiven by Alanis Morrisette?
💡 Cultural Impact
Shakira’s unique background—Colombian roots with Lebanese heritage—shines through in this album, offering a global perspective. The raw passion and unfiltered emotion of Dónde Están los Ladrones? laid the foundation for her later success, bridging the gap between Latin America and the global stage.
🕵️ Fun Facts
Album Title: Translating to "Where Are the Thieves?", the title reportedly stems from an incident where Shakira’s suitcase, containing song lyrics, was stolen.
MTV Unplugged: The album's songs gained a new dimension through Shakira’s MTV Unplugged performance in 2000, emphasizing her musical versatility and vocal talent.
Streaming Numbers: Tracks from this album have accumulated billions of plays, a testament to its lasting impact.
Live Performance of Octavo Día: Shakira's live performace in 2002 with George W. Bush and Saddam Hussein puppets.
🎵 Music Referenced
Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette
Forgiven by Alanis Morissette
Ironic by Alanis Morissette
Tubthumping by Chumbawamba
High and Dry by Radiohead
The Cure
Savage Garden
Gordon by Barenaked Ladies
Natalie Merchant
Jason Mraz
Closing Time by Semisonic
These Dreams by Heart
Open Arms by Journey
Whiter Shade of Pale by Procol Harum
Wicked Game by Chris Isaac
Sexyback by Justin Timberlake
🎧 Why It’s On the List
This album is not just a reflection of Shakira’s artistry but a time capsule of late-90s Latin pop. It bridges cultural authenticity and mainstream appeal, making it a deserving entry on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
🔗 Connect with Us
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode!- 📧 Email: backwardsbeatspodcast@gmail.com- 📱 Social: @backwardbeatspodcast
Please tune in next week as we dive into the album II by Boys II Men
 
*Hosts: Carl Pfanstiehl and Dan Woodard
*Recorded at: Thought Shack Studio
*Release Date: February 4, 2025
Rank: 497

The Indestructible Beat of Soweto Vol. 1 (#497)

In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into album #497 from Rolling Stone's Top 500 Albums of All Time: The Indestructible Beat of Soweto. This South African compilation album, released in 1985, introduced many Western listeners to the vibrant music of South Africa, featuring influential artists like Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
The hosts explore the cultural and historical context of the album, its unique musical styles such as mbaqanga and isicathamiya, and its undeniable connection to Paul Simon's Graceland. With humor, insight, and plenty of respect for the artistry, they grapple with the challenge of critiquing a compilation steeped in cultural significance and joyous celebration.
🎙️Hosts' Thoughts
Dan and Carl reflect on their experience with South African music, admitting it challenged their Western musical sensibilities while ultimately leaving them in awe of its joy and originality.
Despite the album's cultural and historical impact, they question whether a compilation of mostly similar-sounding tracks belongs on the list of the greatest albums of all time.
Verdict from the "Would You Hit It?" segment: While a must-listen for its significance and artistry, it doesn't quite make the cut for their personal list of top albums.
🎵 Music Referenced
Graceland by Paul Simon
Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes by Paul Simon
Homeless by Paul Simon
Come On Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners
Intergalactic by Beastie Boys
It Wasn't Me by Shaggy
Fountains of Wayne
Kyrie by Mr. Mister
🔗 Connect with Us
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode!- 📧 Email: backwardsbeatspodcast@gmail.com- 📱 Social: @backwardbeatspodcast
Please tune in next week as we dive into the album Dónde Están Los Ladrones by Shakira

Suicide by Suicide (#498)

Backwards Beats Podcast: Episode 3 - Suicide by Suicide
 
Artist Connections
The track "Frankie Teardrop" directly inspired Bruce Springsteen's "State Trooper", showcasing its reach into unexpected musical territories. - R.E.M. covered "Ghost Rider (YouTube)," though it remains an obscure part of their repertoire.
Final Thoughts:
Would You Hit It?: Dan gives a resounding NO, while Carl adds that recommending this album might end friendships.
Quality Time Segment: Dan compares this album to baking soda—a raw ingredient necessary for better music to follow, but tough to consume on its own.
Music Referenced
Closer by Nine Inch Nails
Beats of Fury by Chemical Brothers
Nightclubbing by Iggy Pop
Walk on the Wild Side by Lou Reed
State Trooper by Bruce Springsteen
LCD Soundsystem
Sonic Youth
Elvis Presley
The Buzzcocks
Ministry
The Cars
The Eagles
Arcade Fire
Huey Lewis
Fatboy Slim
R.E.M
Pink Floyd
25 or 6 to 4 by Chicago
DJ Khaled
The Rolling Stones
Twist and Shout by The Beatles
Dean Martin
David Lynch
Blitzkrieg Bop by Ramones
Trent Reznor
 
Next Episode: Join us as we explore album #498, The Indestructible Beat of Soweto - Volume One on the Rolling Stone list—stay tuned!
Hosts: Carl Pfanstiehl and Dan Woodard
Recorded at: Thought Shack Studio
Release Date: January 21, 2025
Rank: 498

Ask Rufas - Rufas and Chaka Khan (#499)

Backwards Beats - Episode 2: Ask Rufus by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan
Episode Summary
In this episode, Dan and Carl dive into Ask Rufus, the 499th album on Rolling Stone's Top 500 Albums of All Time. This marks a significant departure for Rufus from their funk roots, as the album embraces orchestral arrangements and jazz influences, showcasing Chaka Khan's extraordinary vocal range and the band's musical prowess. They break down the tracks, explore the musical transitions, and debate whether this album deserves its spot.
Key Points Discussed
Album Overview: Rufus' transition from funk to a more jazz and R&B-oriented sound.
Chaka Khan's Impact: Her vocal brilliance is the anchor of this album. The guys discuss her rise to fame, both with Rufus and as a solo artist.
Track-by-Track Review:
At Midnight (My Love Will Lift You Up) - A fusion-y opener with a powerful horn section, but the band leaves its intro lick behind.
Close the Door - Strings dominate this ballad, taking listeners into 1970s orchestration trends.
Slow Screw Against the Wall - The episode's most puzzling moment. This instrumental track falls flat, earning a skip recommendation.
Earth Song - A unique track with a complex song structure, blending funk and orchestral arrangements with jazz influences.
Everlasting Love - The album’s standout track, later covered by Mary J. Blige, solidifies its legacy.
Hollywood - A groovy track with rich vocal harmonies and standout keyboard patches. Dan dives into the synthesizer history behind the sound.
Magic in Your Eyes - The perfect R&B groove, with tight bass and keyboard interplay.
Better Days - Featuring organic percussion elements and a cool "cuîca" sound that adds a personal, rhythmic touch.
Egyptian Song - An orchestral-heavy closer that strays into musical theater territory and leaves the hosts debating its place as the album’s final track.
Featured Segments
Quality Time: A deep dive into Earth Song and its ambitious orchestral arrangements, featuring detailed track breakdowns.
Would You Hit It?: Dan and Carl discuss whether Ask Rufus is vinyl-worthy and if it makes their personal rotations.
Fun Facts & Tidbits
Stevie Wonder's Connection: Rufus' hit Tell Me Something Good was written by Stevie Wonder, cementing their place in music history.
Synth Spotlight: Dan shares his journey down the synthesizer rabbit hole, exploring whether the Yamaha GX1 or a Mini Moog was used on this album.
Shaka Khan's Longevity: From Tell Me Something Good to her solo hits like I'm Every Woman, her career spans over 54 years with 70 million records sold.
Music Referenced
Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder
Earth, Wind & Fire
Tower of Power
Parliament
Prince
Bob James
I'm Every Woman by Chaka Khan
Through the Fire by Chaka Khan
Funeral by Arcade Fire
YMCA by The Village People
Off the Wall by Michael Jackson
Rock With You by Michael Jackson
Quincy Jones
Shine On You Crazy Diamond by Pink Floyd
Smokin' Out the Window by Silk Sonic
Bruno Mars
Anderson .Paak
Love Got Left Behind by Cherone
Graceland by Paul Simon
Next Episode: Join us as we explore album #498, Suicide, by Suicide on the Rolling Stone list—stay tuned!
Hosts: Carl Pfanstiehl and Dan Woodard
Recorded at: Thought Shack Studio
Release Date: January 14, 2025
Rank:499

Funeral by Arcade Fire (#500)

Funeral by Arcade Fire (Album #500)
Hosts: Carl Pfanstiehl and Dan Woodard
Recorded at: Thought Shack Studio
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Episode Summary
Welcome to the debut episode of Backwards Beats! Carl and Dan dive into the 500th album on Rolling Stone's 2023 list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time: Funeral by Arcade Fire. This debut album from the Canadian indie rock band, released in 2004, brings themes of loss, nostalgia, and celebration. Dan and Carl discuss the album's dynamic energy, orchestration, and Arcade Fire's willingness to explore a wide range of instruments and influences. They share their initial skepticism, only to be pleasantly surprised by the emotional and sonic depth of the album.
Key Topics
Band Origins: A brief history of Arcade Fire, its Montreal roots, and the personal tragedies that shaped Funeral.
Track-by-Track Breakdown: An in-depth discussion of the album's standout tracks, including "Neighborhood #1 (Tunnels)," "Wake Up," and "Rebellion (Lies)."
Production Insights: Thoughts on the production choices, including layered instrumentation, orchestral elements, and the use of space.
Personal Reflections: Carl and Dan recount their personal experiences listening to the album and how it unexpectedly resonated with them.
Musical Influences: The influence of bands like Radiohead and Talking Heads and the album's place alongside Kid A in music history.
Music Referenced
Pixies
Sky Is Falling by Lifehouse
Coldplay
Barenaked Ladies
Talking Heads
Thought Contagion by Muse
Every Morning by Sugar Ray
Kid A by Radiohead
Van Diemen's Land by U2
Episode Highlights
Dan's Favorite Track: "Une Année Sans Lumière"
Carl's Favorite Track: "Neighborhood #4 (7 Kettles)"
Would They Hit It? Both hosts agree that Funeral is a hit and deserves a spot in their vinyl collection.
Fun Fact: Since 2005, Arcade Fire has donated $1 from each concert ticket sold to Haitian relief efforts, raising over $4 million.
Next Episode: Join us as we explore album #499, Ask Rufus by Rufus on the Rolling Stone list—stay tuned!

Episode 0: Introduction to Backwards Beats Podcast

In this introduction, meet you hosts Carl and Dan where they introduce themselves and you to Backwards Beats Podcast. We're a weekly show where we cover an album off of Rolling Stone Magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list... from back to front.