Some Joyful Noises

I spend this episode talking about the music I’ve been listening to lately — mostly AJR, Shaboozey, and Jelly Roll — and why these very different sounds have been on repeat in my life right now. I dive into AJR’s Maybe Man and how its big theme is identity: these songs are like a pop-psychology class wrapped in catchy hooks, asking who we want to be and whether we’ll ever feel “enough” (cue my mid‑30s existential crisis, starring yours truly). I also gush about Shaboozey for the pure fun factor — party-ready, country‑rap energy that kept me awake on long shifts and made me feel like Thursday Night Football had its own hype track. Then I get real about Jelly Roll: his music leans into recovery, faith, and vulnerability — songs like “Winning Streak” and “Need a Favor” are gritty, honest portraits of people trying to heal and find community. I’m not pretending to be a musicologist — I admit I just like hearing my voice on these shows — but I do care about how music builds community and helps us process grief, identity, and faith (full disclosure: it’s been a rough year for me). So expect short clips, some goofy asides, and some quieter, sincere reflections on how these artists land in my life — laughter, tears, and all the joyful noises in between.

AJR's Maybe Man hit me like a late-night existential text from my younger self — you know, the one that asks “who am I supposed to be?” I walk you through the album's big ideas (identity, longing, the weird comfort of not knowing) and why songs like the title track, Inertia, and A Hole in the Bottom of My Brain stuck in my head. I even nerd out a bit: I compare AJR's themes to Kingdom Hearts — yes, the video game — because both wrestle with identity, belonging, and the possibility that being "dearly beloved" might be the whole point. Expect a relaxed, laugh-friendly take that still gets honest: I riff on imposter syndrome, the trap of chasing validation, and why learning to be okay with who you are can be as revolutionary as a chart-topping single.

Music does community work, and that’s literally why we started Some Joyful Noises on the Anazole Podcast Network: to make noise about music that shapes people and communities. I talk about how songs from AJR, Shaboozey, and Jelly Roll became a mirror for my own season of grief (I lost family this year, had some hard moments, and yes — I cried over playlists). I reflect on spiritual practices, too: Pentecostal hoots vs. Lutheran liturgy, the comfort of structured worship versus the need to just feel something — and how both can be valid responses to loss or joy.

I keep it practical and gentle: if you’re wondering whether music can help when you’re grieving or questioning God, I say yes — and offer simple next steps (talk to someone, find a pastor, join a community, or just press play on a song that says "me too"). The episode is messy, honest, and sometimes silly — just like life — and I invite you to share what you’re listening to so we can keep making joyful noises together.

Takeaways:

• I loved AJR's Maybe Man album — it's a poppy, existential ride about identity that made me think of Kingdom Hearts and who I wanna be, even if I still don’t fully know.
• I kept going back to “Inertia” because the physics metaphor hits — life stays the same unless something big pushes us, and I’m learning to accept who I am before I chase endless “bigger.”
• I’ve been blasting Shaboozey when I’m tired at work — it’s dumb-fun, party-ready country-rap that keeps me awake and reminds me music can just be a good time, no deep therapy required.
• Jelly Roll surprised me with raw, faith-tinged storytelling about addiction and recovery; I don’t agree with every theological point, but I totally support the community and vulnerability his songs create.
• After a year of personal losses, music helped me name grief and longings — I confess I sometimes only pray when desperate, and that truth made me value spiritual routines and real human connection.
• We talked a lot about music building community — none of us are experts, but we believe songs help people show up for each other, be honest, and stop pretending everyone’s on a winning streak.
• If you’re ever unsure what to do with heavy feelings, I say talk to someone — pastor, friend, therapist — and maybe put on an album that feels like a hug; music, prayer, and people actually help.

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"When you got the Glow, you fear no one."

Welcome to my dojo, this is Kung Fu Pizza Party. In today's episode, I sit down to review the listener suggested Barry Gordy's The Last Dragon starring Taimak and Vanity. The Last Dragon is a beloved cult classic serving both as a post-Blackploitation film and the end of the Bruceploitation era. It has more storylines then I can count, an obviously great soundtrack, and the coolest villain era to be in a movie.

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Today, we delve into the intricate relationship between music and environmental consciousness, particularly in light of the upcoming Earth Day and Arbor Day celebrations. Let's explore a selection of songs that resonate with themes of nature and community, highlighting how music serves as a powerful medium for fostering a collective awareness of our ecological responsibilities. We shall examine pieces from renowned artists such as Coldplay, Little Dicky, and Counting Crows, each contributing to the dialogue surrounding our stewardship of the planet. Moreover, let's advocate for actionable steps we can take to support our national parks and promote sustainability, emphasizing that our engagement with music can catalyze meaningful discourse and commitment to environmental preservation. Let's embark on this auditory journey together, celebrating both the melodies and the message behind them, reinforcing our shared obligation to cherish and protect the Earth.

The discussion presented delves into the intersection of music and environmental consciousness, particularly in the context of Earth Day and Arbor Day. The speaker, Joshua Noel, articulates a profound appreciation for various songs that resonate with the themes of nature and conservation. The episode serves as an eclectic exploration of musical selections, including pieces from renowned artists such as Coldplay, Counting Crows, and Little Dicky, each chosen for their lyrical connections to the appreciation of the Earth. The speaker emphasizes music's power to forge communal bonds and evoke shared values, reflecting on how songs can inspire listeners to engage more deeply with environmental issues. Through a series of thoughtful reflections, Joshua invites the audience to not only listen to these tracks but also to participate in meaningful conversations about the impact of human actions on our planet, thus fostering a sense of collective responsibility and awareness. Moreover, the podcast serves as a platform for community engagement, where listeners are encouraged to submit their own musical contributions. This open invitation underscores the podcast's ethos of inclusivity and shared expression, reinforcing the notion that music can be a collective endeavor.

Joshua’s candid admission of his own limited musical knowledge does not detract from the richness of the discussion; rather, it adds authenticity to the dialogue as he navigates through the music selection process. He articulates the intrinsic value of music in shaping cultural narratives and communal identities, thereby positioning the podcast as a vital space for dialogue surrounding both music and environmental stewardship. As the episode progresses, the speaker's reflections take on a more serious tone, particularly when addressing the political dimensions of environmental conservation. He expresses concern over governmental policies that threaten national park funding and advocates for proactive measures that individuals can take to support environmental initiatives. The discussion culminates in a rallying call for listeners to engage with their local communities, emphasizing the importance of awareness and action in preserving the natural world. This multifaceted approach, encompassing musical enjoyment, community involvement, and political advocacy, establishes a holistic framework for understanding the significance of music in fostering environmental consciousness.

Takeaways:

• Joshua Noel discusses six songs that resonate with the themes of Earth Day and Arbor Day.
• The episode emphasizes the significance of music in fostering community and shared values among individuals.
• Songs featured in this episode include works by Coldplay, Little Dicky, and Counting Crows, each with environmental themes.
• Noel expresses the importance of actively caring for the Earth, advocating for national park support and environmental awareness.
• The discussion underscores the need for nuanced conversations surrounding environmental issues and societal advancements.
• Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast by sharing their thoughts and music-related contributions.

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Listen to last year's Earth Day Special on Systematic Geekology:

https://player.captivate.fm/episode/887deeb3-e7a6-4511-ab3a-0491fd4dc436/

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https://anazao-podcasts-shop.fourthwall.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

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Joshua Noel delves into the vibrant and eclectic landscape of contemporary music, highlighting three notable albums that have recently captured his attention. Central to this discourse is Harry Styles' latest offering, "Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally," which showcases a delightful blend of pop and disco influences. Additionally, he examines "Prizefighter" by Mumford and Sons, an album that evokes themes of resilience and introspection, resonating deeply with listeners. Finally, the episode features a discussion on "One for the Road (Songs from the Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry the Musical)" by Passenger, an evocative collection that intertwines storytelling with poignant musicality. Through this exploration, we aim to foster a communal appreciation for music's profound impact on our lives and relationships, inviting listeners to engage in the shared experience of musical discovery.

The episode of Some Joyful Noises presents an immersive journey into the auditory realms crafted by Harry Styles, Mumford and Sons, and Passenger. Initially, the host delves into Harry Styles' album, "Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally," articulating a sense of wonderment at the album's eclectic sound. The host's analysis reveals a deep appreciation for the lyrical content, particularly in songs such as "Coming Up Roses," which poignantly captures the transient nature of relationships. Through a careful dissection of the musical arrangements and vocal performances, the host emphasizes Styles' capacity to evoke profound emotional responses, thereby establishing a rich connection with the listener. As the discussion unfolds, the focus shifts to Mumford and Sons' latest release, "Prizefighter."

The host conveys a sense of nostalgia as he reflects on the band's signature sound, which resonates deeply within the folk genre. He highlights the collaborative efforts present in the album, noting the contributions of various artists that enhance the overall auditory experience. The host's commentary on tracks like "The Banjo Song" underscores the thematic exploration of resilience and the human experience, offering listeners a glimpse into the emotional landscapes navigated by the band. The episode culminates in an exploration of Passenger's "One for the Road (Songs from the Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry the Musical)."

The host keenly examines the narrative intricacies woven throughout the album, reflecting on the overarching themes of sorrow, redemption, and the importance of community. He articulates how the music serves as a conduit for shared human experiences, inviting the audience to engage with the story on a personal level. This thoughtful examination of the three albums not only showcases the host's passion for music but also invites listeners to reflect on their own connections to the themes presented, reinforcing the idea that music transcends mere entertainment, acting as a powerful tool for connection and understanding.

Takeaways:

1. In this episode, Joshua Noel articulates his thoughts on three distinct music albums, namely Harry Styles' "Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally," Mumford and Sons' "Prizefighter," and Passenger's "One for the Road (Songs from the Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry the Musical)."
2. The discussion delves into the intricate themes and varying styles present within the three featured albums, highlighting the emotional resonance and lyrical depth that each artist brings to their respective works.
3. Joshua reflects on the significance of music as a unifying force within communities, emphasizing how shared musical experiences foster connections among listeners and contribute to a broader sense of belonging.
4. He expresses a particular admiration for the artistic evolution seen in Harry Styles' latest album, noting its departure into a more disco-influenced sound while still retaining the essence of his previous work.
5. The episode also touches on the narrative and emotional weight of Passenger's album, which serves as a musical accompaniment to a poignant story about love, loss, and the human experience.
6. Joshua concludes by inviting listeners to engage with the podcast and share their own musical discoveries, reinforcing the communal aspect of music appreciation.

Songs sampled in this episode:

1. "Coming Up Roses" by Harry Styles
2. "Dance No More" by Harry Styles
3. "Pop" by Harry Styles
4. "The Banjo Song" by Mumford & Sons
5. "Conversation with My Son (Gangsters & Angels)" by Mumford & Sons
6. "Badlands" by Mumford & Sons (feat. Gracie Abrams)
7. "One for the Road" by Passenger

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Mentioned in this episode:

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Welcome back to My Seminary Life Presents: Fish FryDays the Musical. This week, turn in your hymnal to some number as we look at Man of Sorrows. This hymn keeps us grounded on the reality of Christ's human experience of sorrow, our sinful state, and our declaration of worship as a result of our salvation.

Check out the full article on Phillip P. Bliss from TGC: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/story-hymn-man-sorrows/

Contact: [email protected]

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Welcome back to My Seminary Life Presents: Fish FryDays the Musical, and a happy Saint Patrick's Day to you all. Before we crack open green beer and diving into some corned beef and cabbage, I sit down to talk about the classic song Johnny I hardly Knew Ya; a song that reminds us of the grim realities of war and how war is a place fo destruction while God is in the work of restoration.

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Welcome back to My Seminary Life Presents: Fish FryDays the Musical. In this musical devotional series, I cover a different song each week that captures the themes, postures, and practices of Lent. This week, I'm looking at a beloved U2 song from The Joshua Tree; a song about spiritual longing and a surprising declaration that should challenge our perception of what it means to be a human.

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"Because you're mine, I walk the line."

Welcome back to My Seminary Life Presents: Fish FryDays the Musical. Today, we move into Act II with a look at what is considered to be the greatest country song of all time, "I Walk the Line" by Johnny Cash. This is a love song that acknowledges faithfulness and self-denial, two key aspects of a Lenten fast. However, as we see in Cash's iconic song and from Scripture, the motivation to be faithful and to deny oneself does not come from inner strength, but from a greater experience that moves one to fiathfulness.

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In this enlightening episode of Some Joyful Noises, we delve into the profound thematic interplay between music and visual storytelling, specifically focusing on the comic "Middlewest" by Skottie Young. Our esteemed colleague Josh Patterson presents an intriguing discussion, proposing a curated selection of six songs - five Midwest Emo songs and 1 extra - that he posits would serve as an evocative soundtrack for the comic's narrative journey. Engaging in a thoughtful dialogue with Joshua Noel and TJ Blackwell, we explore the emotional resonance of these tracks, elucidating how they encapsulate the essence of the characters and their struggles. Each song is meticulously analyzed, highlighting its relevance to the overarching themes of identity, familial conflict, and personal growth that permeate "Middlewest."

This episode stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between music and graphic literature, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences as they navigate the poignant landscapes crafted by Young's artistry. A compelling exploration of the intersection between music and literature unfolds as Josh Patterson, alongside Joshua Noel and TJ Blackwell, delve into a curated selection of songs that resonate with the themes of the comic book 'Middlewest' by Skottie Young. This episode serves as a continuation of their previous discussions, where the trio emphasizes the emotional depth found within the comic's narrative. Each song chosen reflects significant moments and underlying sentiments that mirror protagonist Abel's journey, from the tumultuous relationship with his father to the search for belonging among the carnival community. Patterson's selection of six songs, including tracks that evoke a sense of nostalgia and introspection, allows for a multifaceted discussion about the role of music as a soundtrack to storytelling, enriching the comic experience and inviting listeners to reflect on their own emotional landscapes.

Through this discussion, the speakers engage not only with the music itself but also with the intricate themes of childhood, family dynamics, and self-discovery that permeate 'Middlewest'. As they dissect the lyrical content and musicality of each song, they draw parallels to pivotal moments within the comic, offering insights into how music can amplify the emotional resonance of visual narratives. The interplay between the songs and the comic's illustrations is highlighted, with the speakers sharing personal reflections on how specific tracks encapsulate the essence of Abel's struggles and triumphs. Ultimately, this episode serves as a thoughtful tribute to both the comic and the music that encapsulates its spirit, inviting audiences to experience the profound connections between art forms.

Takeaways:

1. In this episode of Some Joyful Noises, we delve into the thematic resonance between music and comics, specifically exploring how music can amplify the emotional depth of narratives like Skottie Young's 'Middlewest'.
2. Joshua Noel, Josh Patterson, and TJ Blackwell engage in a thoughtful discourse about six selected songs, each of which encapsulates significant emotional moments from the comic, offering listeners a curated soundtrack experience.
3. The discussion reveals how the characters in 'Middlewest' grapple with their emotional landscapes, mirroring the lyrical content of the chosen songs, thereby enriching the audience's understanding of both the comic and the music.
4. Listeners can expect an insightful analysis of the intersection between musical expression and narrative storytelling, as the hosts articulate their personal connections to the music in relation to the comic's themes.
5. The episode serves as a bridge between the worlds of graphic novels and music, illustrating how varied artistic mediums can collaboratively evoke profound emotional responses from audiences.
6. Through the examination of each song, the hosts highlight their personal experiences and interpretations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the emotional complexities present in both music and comics.

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Songs sampled in this episode:

1. "How Do You Know It's Not Armadillo Shells?" by Hot Mulligan
2. "Tongue Tied" by Free Throw
3. "A Sitcom Without You is Just a Drama" by Midwest Goodbye
4. "Scott Pilgrim VS. My GPA" by Mom Jeans.
5. "Tears Over Beers" by Modern Baseball
6. "DON'T TELL THE BOYS" by Petey USA

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Check out merch for this podcast and discover other podcasts on the Anazao Podcast Network on our website:

https://anazao-podcasts-shop.fourthwall.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Pull up a chair, grab a mic, and join in the conversation!

You too can lead an episode of Some Joyful Noises. Contact us at [email protected] or on Social Media if you have an idea for an episode you would like to lead on this podcast!

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"You make beautiful things. You make beautiful things out of the dust."

Welcome back to My Seminary Life. Today is the start of My Seminary Life Presents: Fish FryDays the Musical. Each week, I will sit down to discuss a song that I think captures the posture, themes, and Scriptures that impact the Lent season. To begin, I talk about Beautiful Things by Gungor; a song of lament that reminds us to groan our humanity, the earth's final redemption, but also points us to God's ability to bring life from desperate places.

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StudioTwoOneNine