In Episode 099, we look back on the first half of 2020 and discuss our favorite albums of the year so far. In addition to our Top Ten Albums of 2020 so far, we’ve compiled a list of our Honorable Mentions. It’s been an insane year so far, but the music produced has been excellent, and many of the musical breakthroughs we both had last year have spilled over in 2020’s first half. 

Dave’s Top Ten Albums of 2020 (So Far)

10. Stephen Malkmus: Traditional Techniques

9. Pacific Range: High Up On The Mountain

8. Phish: Sigma Oasis

7. Fiona Apple: Fetch The Bolt Cutters

6. Bonnie Light Horseman

5. Mosses: TV Sun

4. Porridge Radio: Every Bad

3. Rose City Band: Summerlong

2. Elder: Omens

1. Arboretum: Let It All In

Brian’s Top Ten Albums of 2020 (So Far)

10. Jeff Parker: Suite For Max Brown

9. Waxahatchee: St. Cloud

8. Real Estate: The Main Thing

7. Stephen Malkmus: Traditional Techniques

6. Fiona Apple: Fetch The Bolt Cutters

5. Mosses: TV Sun

4. Matt LaJoie: Everlasting Spring

3. John Moreland: LP5

2. The Necks: Three

1. Arboretum: Let It All In

— — — 

We encourage all BTP listeners to check out Eric Krasno Plus One on Osiris Media.

— — —

The global health crisis we’re facing right now has threatened the livelihood and mental health of countless musicians. Backline is the music industry’s mental health and wellness resource hub, and their work is more vital than ever. Launched in 2019, Backline aims to give artists, crew and their families quick and easy access to mental health and wellness resources. Backline is currently hosting virtual support groups as well as yoga, meditation, and breathwork sessions. Osiris is proud to partner with Backline — to donate, learn more, or get in touch for personalized care, visit Backline.care

— — —

Check us out on Spotify: Beyond The Pond Podcast Songs

You can find us on Twitter: @_beyondthepond

Medium: https://medium.com/beyond-the-pond

Email: [email protected]

Please check out the Osiris Podcast Network at: OsirisPod.com and JamBase.com

Please leave us a review on iTunes!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With everything happening in America in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, we felt it necessary to step back and discuss our thoughts, as well as how we're communicating racism and the constant pursuit of equality in our country to our kids. We also felt it important to acknowledge that we haven't done enough as podcasters to highlight the music of black artists, especially those who are up and coming, and we commit to do better. We've also included information about a few organizations we've donated to that we'd encourage you to as well. Finally, we compiled a playlist of some of the black artists who paved the way for the music we love, as well as those making music today that are blowing our minds.

We'll be back next week with our previously scheduled Episode 099: Top Albums of 2020 (So Far). In the meantime, be well, be safe, and please keep pushing at the system for widespread reform. It is possible to finally realize the values of the American experiment in this generation.

Songs featured in this episode:

• Archie Shepp: "Blues For Brother George Jackson"
• Moses Sumney: "Virile"
• Nerija: "Riverfest"
• John Coltrane: "My Favorite Things"
• Leon Thomas: "The Creator Has A Master Plan (Peace)"
• Sudan Archives: "Limitless"
• Cameron Graves: "El Diablo:
• Alice Coltrane: "Going Home"

Organizations we recommend donating to:

• Color Of Change: Color Of Change is the nation’s largest online racial justice organization. Help people respond effectively to injustice in the world around us. As a national online force driven by 1.7 million members, we move decision-makers in corporations and government to create a more human and less hostile world for Black people in America.
• ACLU: Legal Services and support to those with a wide range of civil rights complaints; have been at the forefront of fighting for civil rights for decades.
• NAACP Legal Defense & Education Fund: America’s top legal firm fighting for racial justice. 
• The Bail Project: Seeking to end the racial and economic disparities in the bail system, and help pay bail for those who cannot afford it. Has paid bail for more than 10,000 people since its founding in 2007
• Black Mamas Matter Alliance: This is a partnership between the Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR) and SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective that was founded in 2013. Mission statement is to center Black mothers to advocate, drive research, build power and shift culture for Black maternal health, rights and justice. Women’s reproductive rights and maternal health are causes near and dear to our hearts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 098 we chat about the languid and mysterious version of Ghost from May 22, 2000, at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, NY. To do so, we’re joined by Robert Ker (@bobbker /@phish2000at2020) to chat about the larger themes around the jam & run, plus dive deep into the worlds of krautrock & early-aughts NYC. An almost entirely Mike-led jam, it extends onward through minimal changes, for nearly 30min. Throughout much of it, Trey avoids taking leads, allowing all the lessons of the past four years to dictate the jams' development. It’s a hazy and woozy wonderland of groove-based, linear musical communication, and one of the best jams of an incredible year in jamming. 

Songs featured in this episode are:

Neu!: “Fur Immer (Forever)”

CAN: “Im So Green

Manuel Gottsching: “E2-E4”

Interpol: “Untitled”

The Strokes: “Barely Legal”

Secret Machines: “First Wave Intact”

— — — 

In addition, we discuss three new 2020 records we highly recommend: Arboretum: “Let It All In,” Elder: “Omens,” and Sarah Louise: “Earth & Its Contents”

— — — 

We encourage all BTP listeners to check out Amigos on Osiris Media.

— — —

We’re proud to be sponsored by Section 119. More than just board shorts for Fish, Section 119 is currently donating a mask towards essential workers & those in need for every purchase on their site. Go to section119.com/btp for 20% off your first order + the ability to donate a mask!

— — —

We are proud to be sponsored by Harry’s! Harry’s is a return to the essential: quality, durable blades at a fair price — just $2 per blade! They’ve cut out the middleman, manufacturing blades in their German blade factory that’s been honing precision blades for a century. Which means you get incredibly high-quality blades at factory direct prices Harry’s is super convenient: Blade refills are delivered directly to your door on your schedule — with or without a subscription! 100% quality guarantee — If you don’t love your shave, let them know and they’ll give you a full refund. 1% of proceeds are set aside for non-profit organizations devoted to helping provide access to better health care for men and veterans.

Listeners of Beyond The Pond show can redeem their Harry’s trial set at HARRYS.COM/BTP. You’ll get a: Weighted ergonomic handle for a firm grip, 5-blade razor with a lubricating strip and trimmer blade, Rich lathering shave gel with aloe to keep your skin hydrated, And a travel blade cover to keep your razor dry and easy to grab on the go. Go to HARRYS.COM/BTP to start shaving better today!

— — — 

The global health crisis we’re facing right now has threatened the livelihood and mental health of countless musicians. Backline is the music industry’s mental health and wellness resource hub, and their work is more vital than ever. Launched in 2019, Backline aims to give artists, crew and their families quick and easy access to mental health and wellness...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 097 we deep-dive one of our favorite bands of all time: Pavement. To do so, we bring on one of our close friends & returning guest, PJ Rudolph (@axillapt3) to chat about the band’s lasting legacy, our favorite records, the fantastic solo work of Stephen Malkmus, and their connections to Phish. PJ joined us in Episode 074: Remembering David Berman, and we were stoked to have him back on the pod to talk about the larger world of the Pavement/Jicks/Silver Jews world, albeit under happier circumstances. 

Akin to Episode 017: Wilco w/ Josh Carver, Episode 033/034: U2 w/ Ryan Nichols, and Episode 065: Radiohead w/ Myke “Lawn Memo” Menio, we approach Pavement from their discography chronologically walking through their career, before concluding with a larger discussion around the prolific solo career of Stephen Malkmus.

Songs featured in this episode are:

Intros: “Frontwards,” “Grave Architecture”

“Summer Babe” Slanted & Enchanted (1992)

“Range Life” Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain (1994)

“Grounded” Wowee Zowee (1995)

“Shady Lane” Brighten The Corners (1997)

“Folk Jam” Terror Twilight (1999)

“Baltimore” Real Emotional Trash (2008)

“Cinnamon & Lesbians” Wig Out At Jagbags (2014)

“Kite” Sparkle Hard (2018)

“Shadowbanned” Traditional Techniques (2020)

— — —

We encourage all BTP listeners to check out Erica Krasno Plus One on Osiris Media.

— — — 

We are proud to be sponsored by Harry’s! Harry’s is a return to the essential: quality, durable blades at a fair price — just $2 per blade! They’ve cut out the middleman, manufacturing blades in their German blade factory that’s been honing precision blades for a century. Which means you get incredibly high-quality blades at factory direct prices Harry’s is super convenient: Blade refills are delivered directly to your door on your schedule — with or without a subscription! 100% quality guarantee — If you don’t love your shave, let them know and they’ll give you a full refund. 1% of proceeds are set aside for non-profit organizations devoted to helping provide access to better health care for men and veterans.

Listeners of Beyond The Pond show can redeem their Harry’s trial set at

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 096 we discuss the longest and wildest take on Backwards Down The Number Line from Phish’s Summer 2009 Tour Finale at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, NY. We’re joined at the top by Dr. Kevin Finkel (Episode 088: Broadway Phish), anesthesiologist at Hartford Hospital, to discuss his experiences on the front lines of COVID-19, before letting him forget about work for a bit to dive into Summer 2009 Phish with us. We discuss the challenges the band faced in their first tour in five years, but also, the moments of brilliance that emerged from it. 

Songs featured in this episode are:

Lou Reed & John Cale: “Trouble With Classicists”

Mission Of Burma: “Falling”

Grizzly Bear: “While You Wait For The Others”

Manic Street Preachers: “She Bathed Herself In A Bath Of Bleach”

— — — 

In addition, we discuss two new 2020 records we highly recommend: The Necks: “Three” and Trace Mountains: “Lost In The Country”

— — —

We encourage all BTP Listeners to check out 36 From The Vault from Osiris Media.

— — —

We are proud to be sponsored by Harry’s! Harry’s is a return to the essential: quality, durable blades at a fair price — just $2 per blade! They’ve cut out the middleman, manufacturing blades in their German blade factory that’s been honing precision blades for a century. Which means you get incredibly high-quality blades at factory direct prices Harry’s is super convenient: Blade refills are delivered directly to your door on your schedule — with or without a subscription! 100% quality guarantee — If you don’t love your shave, let them know and they’ll give you a full refund. 1% of proceeds are set aside for non-profit organizations devoted to helping provide access to better health care for men and veterans.

Listeners of Beyond The Pond show can redeem their Harry’s trial set at HARRYS.COM/BTP. You’ll get a: Weighted ergonomic handle for a firm grip, 5-blade razor with a lubricating strip and trimmer blade, Rich lathering shave gel with aloe to keep your skin hydrated, And a travel blade cover to keep your razor dry and easy to grab on the go. Go to HARRYS.COM/BTP to start shaving better today!

— — —

The global health crisis we’re facing right now has threatened the livelihood and mental health of countless musicians. Backline is the music industry’s mental health and wellness resource hub, and their work is more vital than ever. Launched in 2019, Backline aims to give artists, crew and their families quick and easy access to mental health and wellness resources. Backline is currently hosting virtual support groups as well as yoga, meditation, and breathwork sessions. Osiris is proud to partner with Backline — to donate, learn more, or get in touch for personalized care, visit Backline.care.

— — —

If you’re like me, things like Music, Running, and Cooking all bring me happiness and meaning. However there are times where even the things you rely on for happiness are not enough to help you achieve your goals....

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 095 we discuss the infectious and groove-driven jam off Gotta Jibboo from February 20, 2003 at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois. A relentless example in hooked-up candy jamming, this Jibboo feels plucked out of Summer 1998, or an example of the joy that emitted from Fall 2013, dropped here, unexpectedly, in the dimly lit era of 2.0 Phish. Try all you might, I dare you to forego a massive dance party in your house to this jam. 

Songs featured in this episode are:

LCD Soundsystem: “All My Friends”

Carly Rae Jepsen: “Cut To The Feeling”

Big Walter Horton: “The Honeydripper”

Elmore James: “Dust My Broom”

— — —

In addition, we discuss two new 2020 records we highly recommend: Horse Lords: “The Common Task” and Tan Cologne: “Cave Vaults on the Moon in New Mexico”

— — —

We encourage all BTP listeners to check out The Drop on Osiris Media.

— — —

We are proud to be sponsored by Harry’s! Harry’s is a return to the essential: quality, durable blades at a fair price — just $2 per blade! They’ve cut out the middleman, manufacturing blades in their German blade factory that’s been honing precision blades for a century. Which means you get incredibly high-quality blades at factory direct prices Harry’s is super convenient: Blade refills are delivered directly to your door on your schedule — with or without a subscription! 100% quality guarantee — If you don’t love your shave, let them know and they’ll give you a full refund. 1% of proceeds are set aside for non-profit organizations devoted to helping provide access to better health care for men and veterans. 

Listeners of Beyond The Pond show can redeem their Harry’s trial set at HARRYS.COM/BTP. You’ll get a: Weighted ergonomic handle for a firm grip, 5-blade razor with a lubricating strip and trimmer blade, Rich lathering shave gel with aloe to keep your skin hydrated, And a travel blade cover to keep your razor dry and easy to grab on the go. Go to HARRYS.COM/BTP to start shaving better today!

— — —

The global health crisis we’re facing right now has threatened the livelihood and mental health of countless musicians. Backline is the music industry’s mental health and wellness resource hub, and their work is more vital than ever. Launched in 2019, Backline aims to give artists, crew and their families quick and easy access to mental health and wellness resources. Backline is currently hosting virtual support groups as well as yoga, meditation, and breathwork sessions. Osiris is proud to partner with Backline — to donate, learn more, or get in touch for personalized care, visit Backline.care.

— — —

If you’re like me, things like Music, Running, and Cooking all bring me happiness and meaning. However there are times where even the things you rely on for happiness are not enough to help you achieve your goals. The good news is, BetterHelp Online Counseling Is there for you.

BetterHelp Online Counseling is a way for you to connect with a professional counselor in a safe, private, and conveniently online environment. Schedule your own secure...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 094 we discus the blissful & ethereal jam off Led Zeppelin’s Ramble On from August 12, 1998 at Vernon Downs, NY. A classic example of the Brian Eno Ambient Style of jamming that had infused Phish’s sound throughout Summer 1998, this is a gorgeous, late-Set I summertime jam that we cannot get enough of right now. 

Songs featured in this episode are:

Quiet Sun: “Trot”

Them Crooked Vultures: “Scumbag Blues”

Chuck Johnson: “Riga Black”

Vacant Gardens: “Shorebirds”

In addition, we discuss two new 2020 records we highly recommend: Waxahatchee: “Saint Cloud” and Califone: “Echo Mine”

— — — 

We encourage all BTP Listeners to check out Inside Out w/ Turner & Seth on Osiris Media.

— — — 

Check us out on Spotify: Beyond The Pond Podcast Songs

You can find us on Twitter: @_beyondthepond

Medium: https://medium.com/beyond-the-pond

Email: [email protected]

Please check out the Osiris Podcast Network at: OsirisPod.com and JamBase.com

Please leave us a review on iTunes!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 093 we discuss the wild and experimental jam off Funky Bitch on November 22, 1994 from Columbia, MO. Deep in the heart of November 1994, the band leapt off a Jon Fishman mistake into a 25 minute jam that helped to define the larger goals of the era. 

Songs featured in this episode are:

Mosses: “TV Sun”

Tortoise: “TNT”

Steve Mason: “Lonely”

— — —

In addition, we discuss two new 2020 records we highly recommend: Matt Lajoie: “Everlasting Spring” and Steven Malkmus: “Traditional Techniques”

— — —

We encourage all BTP Listeners to check out Amigos w/ Mike Finoia on Osiris Media.

— — —

Did you know that music can accelerate child brain development and strengthen intellectual, emotional, and motor skills, as well as overall literacy? Bringing music into the classroom can help kids explore the mind-body connection and become comfortable with self-expression. Sadly, many children’s music programs are lacking in the resources they need to let kids explore this creative space. That’s why Osiris is happy to partner with The Mockingbird Foundation.

Founded in 1996, The Mockingbird Foundation is a volunteer-run non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to music education for America’s youth. Each year, the Foundation awards grants to dozens of music education programs, and funds those grants through a combination of fundraising, publishing, and the curation of Phish.net, one of the earliest Internet fan communities.

Mockingbird is entirely volunteer, with no staff, no salaries, and no office — so every dollar really does make a difference in providing children’s music programs with the staffing, instruments, and support they need. The foundation gives over 100–150,000 dollars every year in grants.

To donate or to learn more, visit mbird.org. That’s M-B-I-R-D — dot- org

— — — 

If you’re like me, things like Music, Running, and Cooking all bring me happiness and meaning. However there are times where even the things you rely on for happiness are not enough to help you achieve your goals. The good news is, BetterHelp Online Counseling Is there for you.

BetterHelp Online Counseling is a way for you to connect with a professional counselor in a safe, private, and conveniently online environment. Schedule your own secure video or phone session, plus chat & text with your therapist. Everything you share is confidential & Licensed professional counselors are available with specializations in:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Relationships
• Sleeping
• Trauma
• Anger
• Family Conflicts
• LGBT Matters
• Grief
• Self Esteem

BetterHelp is available worldwide, and if you’re not happy with your counselor at any time, you can request a new one at no additional charge. With over 3000 Licensed Therapists, you can start communicating in under 24hrs with non-crisis Counselors. Schedules can be set up weekly over video or phone, and Financial Aid is available for those who qualify.

I’ve been using BetterHelp for the last few months and I feel a strong sense of clarity, purpose, and understanding in speaking with my counselor. It’s important to speak with a professional when you’re feeling in need of communication and...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 092 we are joined by Washington Nationals Closer & World Series Champion, Sean Doolittle to chat about Phish, Baseball, and much more in a wide-ranging, two-part interview. Sean is a huge music fan who found Phish over the last few years and has become a great ambassador for the band throughout the majors. In addition, he’s also incredibly thoughtful athlete who champions a number of progressive causes we’re both passionate about. We were excited to chat with him a bit about all these things and more & encourage you to check out both episodes even if you’re a fan of a rival team.

— — — 

We encourage all BTP Listeners to check out Touchdowns All Day w/ Jon Barber for play-by-play analysis of The Disco Biscuits.

— — — 

Did you know that music can accelerate child brain development and strengthen intellectual, emotional, and motor skills, as well as overall literacy? Bringing music into the classroom can help kids explore the mind-body connection and become comfortable with self-expression. Sadly, many children’s music programs are lacking in the resources they need to let kids explore this creative space. That’s why Osiris is happy to partner with The Mockingbird Foundation.

Founded in 1996, The Mockingbird Foundation is a volunteer-run non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to music education for America’s youth. Each year, the Foundation awards grants to dozens of music education programs, and funds those grants through a combination of fundraising, publishing, and the curation of Phish.net, one of the earliest Internet fan communities.

Mockingbird is entirely volunteer, with no staff, no salaries, and no office — so every dollar really does make a difference in providing children’s music programs with the staffing, instruments, and support they need. The foundation gives over 100–150,000 dollars every year in grants.

To donate or to learn more, visit mbird.org. That’s M-B-I-R-D — dot- org

— — — 

If you’re like me, things like Music, Running, and Cooking all bring me happiness and meaning. However there are times where even the things you rely on for happiness are not enough to help you achieve your goals. The good news is, BetterHelp Online Counseling Is there for you.

BetterHelp Online Counseling is a way for you to connect with a professional counselor in a safe, private, and conveniently online environment. Schedule your own secure video or phone session, plus chat & text with your therapist. Everything you share is confidential & Licensed professional counselors are available with specializations in:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Relationships
• Sleeping
• Trauma
• Anger
• Family Conflicts
• LGBT Matters
• Grief
• Self Esteem

BetterHelp is available worldwide, and if you’re not happy with your counselor at any time, you can request a new one at no additional charge. With over 3000 Licensed Therapists, you can start communicating in under 24hrs with non-crisis Counselors. Schedules can be set up weekly over video or phone, and Financial Aid is available for those who...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Episode 092 we are joined by Washington Nationals Closer & World Series Champion, Sean Doolittle to chat about Phish, Baseball, and much more in a wide-ranging, two-part interview. Sean is a huge music fan who found Phish over the last few years and has become a great ambassador for the band throughout the majors. In addition, he’s also incredibly thoughtful athlete who champions a number of progressive causes we’re both passionate about. We were excited to chat with him a bit about all these things and more & encourage you to check out both episodes even if you’re a fan of a rival team. 

— — — 

We encourage all BTP Listeners to check out Touchdowns All Day w/ Jon Barber for play-by-play analysis of The Disco Biscuits.

— — — 

Did you know that music can accelerate child brain development and strengthen intellectual, emotional, and motor skills, as well as overall literacy? Bringing music into the classroom can help kids explore the mind-body connection and become comfortable with self-expression. Sadly, many children’s music programs are lacking in the resources they need to let kids explore this creative space. That’s why Osiris is happy to partner with The Mockingbird Foundation.

Founded in 1996, The Mockingbird Foundation is a volunteer-run non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to music education for America’s youth. Each year, the Foundation awards grants to dozens of music education programs, and funds those grants through a combination of fundraising, publishing, and the curation of Phish.net, one of the earliest Internet fan communities.

Mockingbird is entirely volunteer, with no staff, no salaries, and no office — so every dollar really does make a difference in providing children’s music programs with the staffing, instruments, and support they need. The foundation gives over 100–150,000 dollars every year in grants.

To donate or to learn more, visit mbird.org. That’s M-B-I-R-D — dot- org

— — — 

If you’re like me, things like Music, Running, and Cooking all bring me happiness and meaning. However there are times where even the things you rely on for happiness are not enough to help you achieve your goals. The good news is, BetterHelp Online Counseling Is there for you.

BetterHelp Online Counseling is a way for you to connect with a professional counselor in a safe, private, and conveniently online environment. Schedule your own secure video or phone session, plus chat & text with your therapist. Everything you share is confidential & Licensed professional counselors are available with specializations in:

• Depression
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Relationships
• Sleeping
• Trauma
• Anger
• Family Conflicts
• LGBT Matters
• Grief
• Self Esteem



BetterHelp is available worldwide, and if you’re not happy with your counselor at any time, you can request a new one at no additional charge. With over 3000 Licensed Therapists, you can start communicating in under 24hrs with non-crisis Counselors. Schedules can be set up weekly over video or phone, and Financial Aid is available for those who...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.