Album Nerds – Episode 305: Bands Across America – Canada

Featured Albums:

• Leonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard Cohen (1967)
• Bryan Adams – Reckless (1984)

Episode Highlights

The summer road trip heads north to Canada! We celebrate Canadian music with two landmark albums: Leonard Cohen’s introspective folk debut and Bryan Adams’ chart-topping rock anthem machine. Tune in for in-depth discussion, standout tracks, production tales, and how each record weaves into the tapestry of Canadian culture.

Leonard Cohen – Songs of Leonard Cohen

Cohen’s 1967 debut is a masterclass in poetic songwriting and sparse, haunting folk. His background as a Montreal-born novelist shapes every lyric, blending themes of love, spirituality, and alienation.

Bryan Adams – Reckless

Released in 1984, Adams’s biggest record was a cornerstone of ‘80s FM rock, packed with energy, hooks, and radio-ready polish.

What We’re Diggin’

• Bask – The Turning (2025): Heavy Americana blending psychedelic, stoner, and Appalachian influences, telling cosmic and country-tinged stories.
• Mastodon – Blood Mountain (2006): Progressive sludge-metal concept album full of wild, intricate songcraft.
• Panic Priest – Once Wild (2025): Chicago darkwave with atmospheric synths, baritone vocals, and a dance-driven edge.
• Don Beck – Dark to Light (2025): Colorado indie songwriter delivers faith-rooted, gospel-tinged tracks recorded at home.

Shout-Out: Check out music pods like Can I Pod With Madness? for more 80s/90s metal deep-dives.

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