Welcome to another episode of WorkTape, where we close out our deep dive into 2004, a year packed with genre-defining albums and memorable moments in music. From Matisyahu's groundbreaking debut "Shake Off the Dust...Arise" to Tegan and Sara’s pivotal "So Jealous," we revisit the era’s most impactful releases. We also delve into Regina Spektor's experimental "Soviet Kitsch" and Iron & Wine's serene "Our Endless Numbered Days." Join us as we reflect on these influential albums and more from a transformative year in indie, folk, and experimental music.

Episode Highlights:

• Was Lecrae an integral part of the wave of Southern hip-hop dominance in the 2000s?
• Was Death from Above 1979’s aggressive dance-punk style ahead of its time, prompting bands like Royal Blood to capitalize off of their sound?
• Since her early 2000s debut, how has Avril Lavigne influence affected pop-punk culture and molded its current sound?
• Did R.E.M. evolve their sound for the new millennium, or did they stick to their established formula?
• How did The Black Keys’ raw, bluesy rock manage to work so well in the 2000s?
• Did Tegan and Sara’s evolution from indie to pop dilute their signature sound?