In Episode 290 of History in Five Songs, Martin has a look at the concept of "two songs in one," highlighting tracks from artists like The Beatles, Yes, and Judas Priest that seamlessly shift between distinct musical sections, often blending different genres or themes within a single song.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 289 of History in Five Songs, Martin Popoff plays with the concept of "false endings" in music, examining iconic songs that deceive listeners into thinking the track is over, only to resume with additional riffs, reprises, or unexpected shifts.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 288, Martin delves into the influence of bands like Gillan, Rainbow, and Whitesnake on the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), examining their evolution from cult favorites to guilty pleasures, with a focus on how these acts navigated mainstream success while maintaining their heavy metal integrity.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 287, Martin wrestles with the challenging question of "where to start" when diving into a band's extensive catalog, discussing strategies like starting with the latest or best album, while also reflecting on how listener preferences, social media, and music algorithms shape the listening experience.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 286, Martin posits a new theory about the origins of punk, arguing that it was less a reaction to progressive rock or metal and more a result of a growing disillusionment with established UK rock institutions from the 1960s.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 285, Martin delves into the world of vocal intros, exploring how different artists use unique vocal openings to set the tone for their songs, from crowd participation and bluesy phrases to iconic calls and dramatic showcases of vocal prowess.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 284, Martin laments bands that were negatively impacted by the rise of hair metal, examining how their attempts to adapt to the trend led to commercial failure and a shift in their musical identity.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 283, Martin recognizes bands that take their title tracks seriously, showcasing how these songs often define albums by being the standout tracks, iconic hits, or even the only memorable song from the album.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 283, Martin discusses bands that treat their title tracks as the centerpiece of their albums, exploring how these songs often dominate, set the tone, or even become the most memorable tracks on the album.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices